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A THIRTY YEAR OLD MURDER...
Old Town, Edinburgh, in a squalid tenement where poverty, rats, and disease are rampant, a young woman who worked in a local tavern lies dying. Just another number and bound for a pauper's grave in Greyfriar's kirkyard

A BOY FOUND STANDING IN HIS MOTHER'S BLOOD...
Alone, his grandmother the only family left, young Angus Brodie hides in the shadows nearby, the bronze medallion his dying mother pressed into his hand clenched in a tight fist as the constables carry her body from the tenement. And a name overheard--the man who was there that night, seen by the woman who collected the rents.

A VOW MADE, A PROMISE TO BE KEPT...
As his mother lay dying, Angus Brodie vowed that he would find the one responsible for her death no matter how long it took.

275 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 10, 2023

296 people are currently reading
145 people want to read

About the author

Carla Simpson

40 books172 followers

Carla Simpson also writes as Quinn Taylor Evans.

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5 stars
1,034 (67%)
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398 (26%)
3 stars
83 (5%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
Profile Image for Merry.
883 reviews288 followers
December 18, 2023
I have read each story as published and find it an enjoyable series with a strong female character at the end of the Victorian Era. Mikaela is an independent woman novelist who lives a bit of a bohemian life. In this installment of the series, we get Brodie's back story as he sets out to solve the murder of his mother. This was more of a straight mystery with a big dash or romance at the end.
4 reviews3 followers
January 3, 2024
Beyong AMAZING!!!!!!

I could not put this down and I wNt more!!! You will love it! It was suspenseful, romantic, scarry and all good things!!!
Profile Image for Michelle.
1,542 reviews14 followers
October 9, 2023
When Brodie takes off to settle a deeply personal case, one that happened nearly thirty years prior he tells Mikaela to stay out of it. For a time she gives him his space but when no one hears hind mor hare from him she’s off to see what’s what. Together acts much grumbling and protesting on the stubborn Scot’s part they embark on a journey through the past but secrets held dear are still having dire consequences now. The danger mounts and the culprit will go to any means to hide the truth both then and now. Can Mikaela and Brodie flush him and his secrets into the light or will he succeed in quieting them both for good?
I absolutely loved this story! We finally got a glimpse of the history that shaped Brodie into the man he is today. I loved the chapter from his pov. Great additions those. Wonderful give and take between our two sleuths, the lurking protecting presence of Mr. Munro, a trip to the city of Edinburgh and one doozy of an ending. Fabulous absolutely brilliant!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kathy.
3,873 reviews290 followers
February 26, 2024
I need to switch to another series for the present, as the Angus/Mikaela saga can become a bit much. If I return to series later on I will most likely enjoy the reading experience more. This time round there was a mission to discover details surrounding death of Angus's mother in Edinburgh years ago.

Kindle Unlimited
1,358 reviews
November 3, 2023
Fifth and current in the Angus Brodie/Mikaela Forsythe historical mystery series set in 1880s London, this one finds Brodie traveling to Edinburgh (with Mikaela following, of course) to follow through on a vow made to his mother 30 years before.

With the help of Brodie’s childhood friend Munro, they navigate the echoes from the past even as secrets and deaths from that past are showing up in the present. Who doesn’t want the past resurrected and why?

Aside from some pesky editing issues, I liked learning more about Brodie’s mysterious and heartbreaking past and watching the dynamics between he and Mikaela change and deepen. There’s also a bit of a surprising cliffhanger that I’m looking forward to watching develop in the next book. This has become a current favorite mystery series for me.
15 reviews
December 17, 2023
Good one! Apparently an editor and/or proofreader has been hired ; I wasn't cringing every other page. After the last book in this series, I swore I'd not read another one because if errors that should have been corrected.The aunt's very fine whiskey was only mentioned about 3 times, and Mikaela didn't digress once! 😁
I felt like the story in Edinburgh ended rather abruptly, and without a whole lot of explanation, but I really liked learning a little more about Brodie. Looking forward to the next installment, and learning more about some new characters introduced in this one.
Profile Image for Britton Epps.
364 reviews40 followers
October 12, 2023
I was so happy to be back in Mikayla and Brodie world. The mystery and suspense both in plot and relationship had me on edge. The ending left me wanting more of course… hopefully M will see that it’s ok to want a more permanent lifestyle with B. I’m ready for these two to be on the same page. Five stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
467 reviews4 followers
February 14, 2024
Better. Getting out of London made some of the tropes and the repetition less of a problem. Oh, they are still there. I mean, I think Brodie has a “dark gaze” because she has only written it 257 times over the course of the five novels. What would be amazing is if the author tried to put into words what was meant by that? Another convoluted plot and premise with a LOT of characters. Really more like 3.5, but as it was better, I decided to up the star count.
Profile Image for Cynthia Houser.
1,600 reviews9 followers
July 6, 2024
Deadly Vow

I am thoroughly enjoying this series. The characters are well developed, interesting and engaging. Reading detective books are are one of my favorite things to do and it especially enjoyable when one of the detectives is a Scott. I can't wait to read the rest of this series.
Profile Image for Deb.
247 reviews3 followers
October 12, 2023
I love both Mikaela and Brodie and their interactions. From the very first book, I cheered these two on as they solved murders, all while trying to skirt their attraction to one another. We've know that Brodie was a child who lost his mother to murder, grew up on the streets of Edenborough, became a policeman, left to become an inquiry agent. This story takes us back to Edinborough when Brodie gets information regarding his mother's murder and leaves Mikaela behind. Did I say that she is not someone who you tell to sit tight and she will? Not our girl, she goes to help and naturally someone is not happy to see her, but does that stop her? No way. Once everyone agrees to play nice, the inquiry into this 30 years old murder gets larger with more bodies and could the murderer still be around? This is Brodie's story; it's about pain, loss and despair of losing his mother so young and what affect it still has on the man he is today. Along the way we see him fight to keep Mikaela safe as she continues to investigate this old murder with him and Munro. I have truly come to love this series and each time Carla says a new book is coming out, I get it preordered right away.
Profile Image for Min.
120 reviews1 follower
November 16, 2023
This book - I am already 25% in and nothing. Mikaela is very self-entitled and her behaviour is pouty and annoying like the 21st century spoilt child. Well, she has always been shown to be pouty, whiny, stupid at times, and I would not use 'headstrong' because this character is very not developing well. Brodie is also 'an annoying Scot' but again, this character is supposedly silent, dark and brooding is very annoying to me.

My main grouse is two-fold. The two main protagonists is not appealing. What is more annoying to me, is the crime itself. Someone dies. but what leads to the murder, the villains, supporting cast is very much missing.

The reason I am here complaining is because I started reading book 1 and it was not great. But book 2 was much better and I was interested to know more about the two main characters. The actual crimes in Book 3 and 4 were slightly disappointing but I can roll with it. Which is in my mind, the whole purpose of reading a crime book - a good murder plot!
Profile Image for Barbara Rogers.
1,754 reviews208 followers
September 28, 2023
Barbara’s rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Series: Angus Brodie and Mikaela Forsythe Mystery #5
Publication Date: 10/10/23
Period: Victorian Edinburgh
Number of Pages: 276

This was an exciting, breath-holding adventure from the first page to the last. We’ve known since the first book that Angus Brodie was born in Edinburgh and lived on the streets surviving any way he could. This story brings us from London back to Edinburgh in search of a murderer – except the murder happened thirty years ago – and the victim was Brodie’s mother. Oh! My!

Needless to say, the murderer doesn’t wish to be caught and goes full-out to stop Brodie, Mikaela, and Brodie’s friend Munro. This murderer has a lot to lose and enough power to stop our sleuths in their tracks – or does he? He certainly goes full-out trying. He’s certainly not averse to murdering again – after all, he’s good at it. With more murders, kidnappings, and arson, you can see how exciting every page is. You’ll hold your breath as Brodie is attacked – then Mikaela – and . . .

I loved that we learned so much more about Brodie in this book. With the life he led, you can only marvel that he escaped and made himself into the man he is. I also loved that Brodie finally made his feelings for Mikaela known – but – she didn’t actually reciprocate – though we know she feels the same. Sadly, the book ended about two, maybe three, paragraphs too soon for me! This sly author ended the book at just the right spot to ensure we come back for more in the next book. Of course, I would have been back anyway.

This book has an exciting, hold-your-breath, mystery, a toe-curling romance, and characters you wish to meet in real life. I love that Mikaela is strong, intelligent, determined, and can take care of herself, yet she is learning to see and show that softer side of herself. This is most definitely a recommended read and I hope you’ll love it as much as I did. Happy Reading!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
514 reviews8 followers
October 11, 2023
Simpson grips our attention with the prologue, which accounts for Brodie’s whereabouts when he was approximately ten years old. Upon returning home one day, he finds his mother dying, his father gone…as he usually is. Brodie goes to live with his grandmother temporarily and then finds himself living on the streets in Edinburgh. Now three decades later, he receives a clue to the unsolved murder and the only thing he shares with Mikaela is that he will be gone for some undetermined period of time with no invitation to accompany him. We are all well acquainted with the “stubborn lass”.

The author does an excellent job of conveying the boring aspects of trying to solve a cold case in the 1890’s. It’s very tedious work, but after 3 weeks in London, Mikaela is determined to find Brodie in Edinburgh with the uninvited Mr. Munro’s assistance. Readers may initially be overwhelmed by the new names of characters, (some dead, some living) who are essential to understanding the ramifications and daunting amount of clues in solving this murder…and it appears…many others. The action is almost nonexistent in this novel, until the trio gets closer to finding who are involved in Brodie’s mother’s murder. This is an intense mystery with a very satisfying conclusion, but most especially pleasing is the monologue from Brodie to Mikaela in the last few pages. This is worthy of a reread and that equals 5 stars 🌟.
I hope to hear about the disposition of a certain 13 y/o girl in the next book. Book 6 “Deadly Obsession” looks to be dark and promising.
Profile Image for Nanna.
1,218 reviews4 followers
December 23, 2023
Wow, what a great story. It was worth the wait for this read. If you have not read the earlier books, I would recommend you do. With each book you learn more about all the characters and their past. Along with the growing attraction between Brodie and Mikaela. These two are a treat to watch as their witty banter and sexy undertones continue thru the books. Even with the mystery around the murder, the sadness and coverup along with both Brodie and Mikaela being targets. It's great to finally learn some of Brodie's and Munro’s past and what they had to overcome to get where they are now. Carla does a great job letting us know what he is thinking and feeling, which we usually only have Mikaela’s thoughts. This is a very fast-paced story with a lot going on. It also shows what can happen when the evil one is in power with money and ways to hide. We didn’t see much of Mudger or Rupert as the store mostly happens in Edinburgh. The ending was great and shocking, leaving us with a “what will happen now” moment. I hope lily is in the next book, she is a wonderful addition to the stories. Oh, my I’m on to the next book to see what happens. Be sure and do not miss this great series. I know I will reread it over and over again.
Profile Image for Debbie Lacey.
337 reviews7 followers
February 29, 2024
Simply put, I did not want it to end. Brodie and Mikaela are among my favorite couples, and I love spending time with them in Ms. Simpson's captivating stories. From the first book, mystery has shrouded Brodie's past, creating a barrier between him and the rest of the world, including Mikaela. Thankfully, it is time to lift the veil on some of that history. However, as often is the case, there are those who want and need the veil to remain in place to protect themselves. All of this makes for a riveting tale of lies, secrets, and danger that kept me engaged from beginning to end.

I also enjoyed spending more time with Monroe and meeting a new character who I hope to meet again in future books.

Speaking of future books, I do hope that the next one is not far off because that ending, while not exactly a cliffhanger, does have the affect of omitting the last page of a mystery novel. Well played, Ms. Simpson. Well played.

As always, Bronwen Price does an amazing job of voicing these characters. Her skill definitely enhances the experience.
Profile Image for Patricia.
610 reviews1 follower
October 20, 2023
This is the fifth in the Angus Brodie and Mikaela Forsythe series. The prologue sets the stage for the rest of the story, not only that, but it pulls you in, because you want to find out how it will be resolved.
Brodie disappears leaving behind a message for Mikaela to stay out of it, but when he is not heard from after a period of time, Mikaela is concerned and, of course, nothing will stop her from going to find him and help him with his quest.
The interactions between the two main characters are really wonderful, the humor and depth of feeling shown between the two made me smile and sigh.
The twists and turns kept me reading and wondering what was going to happen next.
A delightful addition to the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Monica.
400 reviews8 followers
September 28, 2023
I love this series from Carla SImpson. It mixes mystery, action, and romance. Though each can be read as a stand alone, it does help to have read them all so you have some background.

This latest installment provides more information about Brodie’s past. He, Mikaela, and even Munro head to Scotland. They must navigate through the past and the shadowy present to figure out the culprit.

I love that Mikaela is a strong, intelligent, independent heroine and that Brodie is a man who not only tolerates that but loves her for those reasons. This book not only has them solving a crime but also deepening their relationship.

Highly recommend!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Stephanie Herron.
742 reviews11 followers
October 5, 2023
Angus childhood was awful and in this story we learn more about it. He has finally found clues to who murdered his mother and goes off to find more. Mikaela is left behind which she only tolerates for a short time before going after Angus. Munro goes with her to protect her as well as help his friend Angus. Their presence is not welcome and they have their work cut out for them as to find out exactly who doesn't want them nosing into the past and why. There are fascinating pieces of history mixed into the story, which make it more interesting. The story has lots of adventure, mystery and a heartwarming ending.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
12 reviews
January 4, 2025
Could it get any better?

I read at least 2 books a week and rarely leave reviews. But this time I am compelled to. I read the first book in the series and enjoyed it. Then the second a month or two later. But after reading the third, I was in full on binging and fully intend to continue until there are, unfortunately, no more. For period based mysteries, these are by far the best. The characters are so well drawn in all their complexities, faults, and virtues, that they have become like good friends. Please, Ms. Simpson, give me more! There are a few left in the series but I hope more are in the works.
Profile Image for Roslyn Stillman.
547 reviews14 followers
October 6, 2023
Wow, she has done it again. What a wonderful read. I think this is the best so far in the series with so much adventure, twists and turns, and emotion. I loved the characters and how their relationship has developed and matured. This book fills in a lot of the mystery from the last books but can be read as a standalone read. It had me turning the page wanting to see where the mystery would go. Now to wait for the next episode in their adventures and romance. I received this as an ARC from booksprout and freely give my review.
66 reviews2 followers
October 15, 2023
Loved this installment! My favorite of the series and I can't wait for the next release. I did miss some of the regular characters a bit (Aunt Antonia, sister, actress friend, Rupert, Mudger...) This story takes the main characters to Edinburgh and having been there several times, I found the descriptions and history compelling. Much of what was slightly annoying about earlier books(very fine scotch.. ha ha) are corrected and we get to learn more about Brodie's history. The wrap up of the mystery was pretty quick but the ending was perfect!
Profile Image for Pamela Paterson.
590 reviews5 followers
December 9, 2023
This had to be my favorite book so far. The main cast of characters were Mikaela, Brodie and Munro, the setting was Edinburgh with the murder needing solved being that of Brodie's mum. I think I enjoyed this a lot more as I am very familiar with the area that our team was frequenting as well has having visited the White Hart many times in my fortnightly trips to Edinburgh. Someone obviously got their red pen out as the mention of whisky or 'very fine whisky' was kept to a minimum. Hope the next book continues in this vein.
Profile Image for Pat Robinson.
855 reviews10 followers
October 2, 2023
Finally, a chance for Brodie to find answers! This was such a touching story of seeing this hardened Scot let some of the wall around his heart to fall. It was interesting to see how Mikaela handled that and her own emotions as well. A thriller of a story, and though I had an inkling who the villain was, it still was a bit of a surprise ending. I CANNOT. Wait for book #6!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for ML Carver.
69 reviews
October 21, 2023
They just keep getting better and better

Love this series. I love Mikaela's spunk, I love Brodie's dark brooding vulnerability, I love Munro, and Templeton, and especially her Aunt Antonia. Really enjoyed this one, and I hope that Lily gets to be a regular part of the series. I could see Mikaela adopting her as her ward and the two of them having adventures together. (I hope that's the plan!!) ;)
77 reviews
October 31, 2023
Wow! So very good!

Carla Simpson continues to be one of the most talented writers I’ve read in decades. Brodie and Mikaela with their comical bickering, while batting theories back and forth are delightful. The mysteries are well thought out and the additional characters bring so much more realism to the stories. I hope Carla Simpson continues with many, many more of this series.
39 reviews
December 2, 2023
Thank you, again!

Dear Carla Simpson,

How do you thank an author for hours of interest and joy one experiences from reading another Mikaela and Brodie story?
You take me away from my gloomy days, or thoughts, to another time and realm. Your stories brighten my days and foster my curiousity about new words about older times. I appreciate your efforts and diligence in research.


Profile Image for Suzette.
3,623 reviews23 followers
October 12, 2023
Mikaela and Brodie rock! Brodie returns to Scotland to solve the decades long murder of his mother. Mikaela invites herself along and rocks the boat. It is an awesome and page turning story. It is exciting and entertaining. Mikaela and Brodie are exciting characters that readers will love. Their working and personal relationship continues to grow in a most welcome way.
Profile Image for Michelle.
323 reviews
October 13, 2023
This one's by far my favorite of the series. The story had so much heart. I actually was choked up a couple of times. The relationship between the two characters, though complicated really came through and I found myself touched, with the self-doubts and the questioning. I really liked the fact we got a glimpse into Brodie's mind. LOVED the end.
6 reviews
October 15, 2023
I love this series!

Started from kindle unlimited, no expectation that it would come to grip me in the way it has. The characters are rich and complex, with so much experienced beyond that explicitly written. The “plots ” twists keep you engaged and keep you wanting more. I rarely write reviews, but please, keep this series going!
260 reviews2 followers
October 19, 2023
Always

Always these books pull me in. The characters are vivid and realistic. Even Mikaela's unusual abilities are ridiculous to unusual. Many, especially British women, traveled extensively during the time period. Mikaela is simply an fictional extension of those amazing, admirable women!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews

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