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Scottish Shire Mystery #6
Murder at a Scottish Christmas
The holidays in the charming seaside village of Nairn hold bright hope for sweater shop owner and knitting enthusiast Paislee Shaw—but a fireworks celebration provides cover for a killer in the sixth installment of USA Today bestselling author Traci Hall’s Scottish Shire Mystery series.
All Paislee wants for Christmas is for her new home to be finished, but it looks like she’ll have to wait for New Year’s Day. Whether the paint on the walls has dried or not, she’ll host a feast for her twelve-year-old son Brody, Grandpa, their black Scottish terrier Wallace, and friends—including police station receptionist Amelia Henry and her brother McCormac, whose black locks can fulfill the Scottish first-footer tradition that a tall, dark-haired man should be the first person to enter your home on New Year’s to bring good luck.
But McCormac’s luck is about to run out. During Hogmanay—when the Scots welcome the New Year with dancing, bonfires, and midnight fireworks—he collapses as the sky brightens in a blaze of color. A shooter has used the noise of the fireworks to hide a gun’s blast. Amelia is inconsolable, and Paislee vows to do whatever she can to help DI Zeffer solve the murder—even if it puts her in the killer’s sights next . . .
All Paislee wants for Christmas is for her new home to be finished, but it looks like she’ll have to wait for New Year’s Day. Whether the paint on the walls has dried or not, she’ll host a feast for her twelve-year-old son Brody, Grandpa, their black Scottish terrier Wallace, and friends—including police station receptionist Amelia Henry and her brother McCormac, whose black locks can fulfill the Scottish first-footer tradition that a tall, dark-haired man should be the first person to enter your home on New Year’s to bring good luck.
But McCormac’s luck is about to run out. During Hogmanay—when the Scots welcome the New Year with dancing, bonfires, and midnight fireworks—he collapses as the sky brightens in a blaze of color. A shooter has used the noise of the fireworks to hide a gun’s blast. Amelia is inconsolable, and Paislee vows to do whatever she can to help DI Zeffer solve the murder—even if it puts her in the killer’s sights next . . .
320 pages, Paperback
First published September 24, 2024
56 people are currently reading
277 people want to read
About the author
Traci Hall
109 books407 followersalso writing as Traci Wilton and Ellie Brannigan
From cozy mysteries to seaside romance, USA Today bestselling author Traci Hall writes stories that captivate her readers. As a hybrid author with over sixty published works, Ms. Hall has a favorite tale for everyone.
Mystery lovers, check out her Scottish Shire series, set in the seaside town of Nairn, or the Salem B&B Mystery series, co-written as Traci Wilton. Her latest project is an Irish Castle cozy as Ellie Brannigan. Whether it's her ever-popular By the Sea romances, an Appletree Cove sweet romance, or a fun who-done-it, Traci finds her inspiration in sunny South Florida, living right near the ocean.
Traci wants to hear from you!
Traci@TraciHall.com
Facebook.com/BytheSeaSeries
Twitter.com/Tracihallauthor
From cozy mysteries to seaside romance, USA Today bestselling author Traci Hall writes stories that captivate her readers. As a hybrid author with over sixty published works, Ms. Hall has a favorite tale for everyone.
Mystery lovers, check out her Scottish Shire series, set in the seaside town of Nairn, or the Salem B&B Mystery series, co-written as Traci Wilton. Her latest project is an Irish Castle cozy as Ellie Brannigan. Whether it's her ever-popular By the Sea romances, an Appletree Cove sweet romance, or a fun who-done-it, Traci finds her inspiration in sunny South Florida, living right near the ocean.
Traci wants to hear from you!
Traci@TraciHall.com
Facebook.com/BytheSeaSeries
Twitter.com/Tracihallauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
October 3, 2024
I received a free copy of, Murder at a Scottish Christmas, by Traci Hall, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book 6 in A Scottish Shire Mystery book series. Paislee thought it would be a fairly quiet, Christmas. Paislee is waiting for her home to be finally finished, and is ready to host a party, when someone is murdered. Now Paislee has a murder to solve. This was a nice cozy mystery set in beautiful Scotland.
February 12, 2026
I'm such a fan of Traci Hall's Scottish Shire Mystery, and this one didn't disappoint. Visiting the charming village of Nairn at Christmas was a pleasure. The author does such a wonderful job of bringing a Scottish Hogmany (New Year's) to life with a party and a first-footer, who has to be a tall, dark-haired, handsome man. The handsome McCormac, her friend's brother, fits the bill and has agreed to enter Paislee's home on New Year's. However, McCormac is shifty and obnoxious. The family isn't much better. Amelia is the gem of the family. However, when McCormac is unfortunately murdered at the late-night Hogmany celebration, Paislee gets pulled into helping Amelia find her brother's killer. Paislee has a lot on her plate, juggling her family life, her yarn shop, her knit and sip nights, dating, and getting involved in the dark underworld of puppy mills. Being a dog lover, I appreciated the author bringing this inhumane practice to light. Great work, Traci Hall!
December 4, 2024
"Murder at a Scottish Christmas (Scottish Shire Mystery #6)" by Traci Hall falls in December/January over the Christmas season. However, the murder really happens on New Year's Eve/Day. Right as the fireworks go off. The victim is the brother of Paislee's friend Amelia.
Paislee really doesn't get too involved in the murder investigation because Amelia's next problem is that her new puppy is sick. The vet that was taking care of it disappeared. The puppy was one of the last gifts the brother had given to her and she was getting really attached to it. So, Paislee is helping Amelia figure out what happened to the puppy. Maybe it's tied to what happened to Amelia's brother?
Paislee really doesn't get too involved in the murder investigation because Amelia's next problem is that her new puppy is sick. The vet that was taking care of it disappeared. The puppy was one of the last gifts the brother had given to her and she was getting really attached to it. So, Paislee is helping Amelia figure out what happened to the puppy. Maybe it's tied to what happened to Amelia's brother?
December 28, 2024
Amelia made this book lose a whole star, damn she was annoying in this one.
January 13, 2025
I enjoyed this as I always enjoy being back with these characters. It was fun to see the house renovations completed and seeing some holiday celebrations. I read it at the perfect time since a lot of it happens after Christmas. I didn’t love how Paislee and her friend investigated and kept some major things from the police. I hope things progress in certain relationships as the series goes on.
December 29, 2025
A slow beginning with many characters to keep straight. But eventually the plot takes off. while there's little to do with the Christmas celebration, being on the post Christmas break gives the protagonist time to investigate a murder and puppy mill. Even though this is a series, I apparently started several books in. but that didn't detract from the plot. I would read others in this series.
November 22, 2024
Another good, cozy mystery with cute puppies involved!
December 29, 2024
A sweater shop owner, Paislee, hosts Christmas for her little family in her newly renovated home with all the Scottish traditions and fixings. But she feels compelled to solve the murder of her employee’s brother whose murder by gunshot was covered up by the fireworks display at the town’s Hogmanay festival. Met with several red herrings of questionable characters, Paislee is determined to get to the bottom of the murder.
What made this story stand out for me were the supportive and charming secondary characters surrounding the MC. I love that Paislee was a single mother, which provides a different take on typical amateur sleuths and her along with her grandfather in tow. The multigenerational household delivers a cozy environment that I love about this subgenre. Additionally, I love when there is a love story integrated in the book and there are hopeful prospects that Paislee encounters that I’m interested in seeing where it takes her. Overall, this was a great Christmas cozy that I’m happy to add to my shelf.
Thank you Kensington Books for the arc. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
What made this story stand out for me were the supportive and charming secondary characters surrounding the MC. I love that Paislee was a single mother, which provides a different take on typical amateur sleuths and her along with her grandfather in tow. The multigenerational household delivers a cozy environment that I love about this subgenre. Additionally, I love when there is a love story integrated in the book and there are hopeful prospects that Paislee encounters that I’m interested in seeing where it takes her. Overall, this was a great Christmas cozy that I’m happy to add to my shelf.
Thank you Kensington Books for the arc. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
December 1, 2024
https://openbooksociety.com/article/m...
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Scotland must be beautiful any time of year, but especially at Christmas! The little shire of Nairn has all the feels of the season, from the scents, music, and decorations to cozy, hand-knit sweaters and snow. Paislee makes and sells knit goods at her specialty yarn shop, Cashmere Crush, and at the upscale gift shop in Ramsey Castle, where her hand-knit specialty items sell quickly.
Characterizations are elegant portraits of each person’s inner beauty (or lack thereof), and I felt as if visiting old friends. Paislee is my favorite. I admire how she balances time with Brody, her twelve-year-old son, and Grandpa, who works for her part time, while managing her business with excellence. Paislee genuinely cares about others, and I envy her ability to organize and host a holiday gathering. In this installment, Paislee’s Saturday assistant, Amelia, a weekday receptionist at the police station, is in the spotlight. Her personality and backstory easily burrowed into my heart. I am very impressed with her overall successful choice to be different from her immediate family.
Amelia’s brother, McCormac, came home to visit. He moved to Belfast, Ireland, after having spent a couple years in jail and became a luxury auto salesman. He loved the ladies, though, too much to settle down with just one. He gifted purebred puppies with papers to one of his girlfriends, to Amelia, his brother, and their parents.
Paislee closed her shop while Brody’s school was on holiday break. Her Christmas would have been complete only if they could have returned to their home to celebrate. Major repairs were underway after the pipes burst a few months ago. Her best friend, Lydia, a realtor who also dabbled with interior design, helped with the process and designed a new kitchen for Paislee. The end result would be a surprise for Paislee, Grandpa, Brody. Lydia and her husband Corbin presented the finished work just after Christmas. They called Paislee’s family to rush to their home quickly, where inside awaited the kitchen of Paislee’s dreams! They could move back immediately and Paislee would host their New Year’s Day buffet in their newly-remodeled home.
Nairn presented its residents and tourists with a Hogmanay / New Year’s Eve festival. Paislee, Grandpa, and Brody stayed close together that evening, along with Amelia and her brother, McCormac. The brother of one of McCormac’s ex-girlfriends started a fistfight with him. His other girlfriends also ran into them. The fireworks began to explode at midnight. McCormac, who had been drinking heavily, suddenly spun around, then collapsed. Paislee and another friend of theirs tried to help while awaiting first responders. He was rushed to the hospital but learned he had been shot in the heart and died.
Amelia knew Paislee helped solve murders in the past and begged her to find who killed McCormac, but Paislee was confident in the police. She changed her mind, however, after someone tried to break into Amelia’s apartment, and Amelia showed her a suitcase stuffed with hundred-pound notes that he left behind. Her new puppy needed urgent veterinarian care, and the vet with whom prepaid consults were made, disappeared with her beloved Snowball while treating him overnight for kennel cough. Amelia’s mother and brother were suspects, so her boss gave her a paid leave of absence until the case was solved.
If I could add or change anything, I would wish for a list of characters, at least the primary ones, and in this case, a glossary for the more common Scottish terms used. I do enjoy them, and can’t wait until a good time to spring “numpty” on somebody!
I eagerly followed Amelia and Paislee through each leg of their “investigation” to find who killed McCormac and look into the puppy scheme. It firmly held my attention, and I wanted peace and safety for Paislee and Amelia. I couldn’t determine who the bad guys could be, though, and I was taken aback when learning who was involved in the murder and the puppy scheme! All crimes and associated bad guys were sorted out to my satisfaction. I highly recommend this novel and series, especially those who have Scotland on their travel bucket list.
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Scotland must be beautiful any time of year, but especially at Christmas! The little shire of Nairn has all the feels of the season, from the scents, music, and decorations to cozy, hand-knit sweaters and snow. Paislee makes and sells knit goods at her specialty yarn shop, Cashmere Crush, and at the upscale gift shop in Ramsey Castle, where her hand-knit specialty items sell quickly.
Characterizations are elegant portraits of each person’s inner beauty (or lack thereof), and I felt as if visiting old friends. Paislee is my favorite. I admire how she balances time with Brody, her twelve-year-old son, and Grandpa, who works for her part time, while managing her business with excellence. Paislee genuinely cares about others, and I envy her ability to organize and host a holiday gathering. In this installment, Paislee’s Saturday assistant, Amelia, a weekday receptionist at the police station, is in the spotlight. Her personality and backstory easily burrowed into my heart. I am very impressed with her overall successful choice to be different from her immediate family.
Amelia’s brother, McCormac, came home to visit. He moved to Belfast, Ireland, after having spent a couple years in jail and became a luxury auto salesman. He loved the ladies, though, too much to settle down with just one. He gifted purebred puppies with papers to one of his girlfriends, to Amelia, his brother, and their parents.
Paislee closed her shop while Brody’s school was on holiday break. Her Christmas would have been complete only if they could have returned to their home to celebrate. Major repairs were underway after the pipes burst a few months ago. Her best friend, Lydia, a realtor who also dabbled with interior design, helped with the process and designed a new kitchen for Paislee. The end result would be a surprise for Paislee, Grandpa, Brody. Lydia and her husband Corbin presented the finished work just after Christmas. They called Paislee’s family to rush to their home quickly, where inside awaited the kitchen of Paislee’s dreams! They could move back immediately and Paislee would host their New Year’s Day buffet in their newly-remodeled home.
Nairn presented its residents and tourists with a Hogmanay / New Year’s Eve festival. Paislee, Grandpa, and Brody stayed close together that evening, along with Amelia and her brother, McCormac. The brother of one of McCormac’s ex-girlfriends started a fistfight with him. His other girlfriends also ran into them. The fireworks began to explode at midnight. McCormac, who had been drinking heavily, suddenly spun around, then collapsed. Paislee and another friend of theirs tried to help while awaiting first responders. He was rushed to the hospital but learned he had been shot in the heart and died.
Amelia knew Paislee helped solve murders in the past and begged her to find who killed McCormac, but Paislee was confident in the police. She changed her mind, however, after someone tried to break into Amelia’s apartment, and Amelia showed her a suitcase stuffed with hundred-pound notes that he left behind. Her new puppy needed urgent veterinarian care, and the vet with whom prepaid consults were made, disappeared with her beloved Snowball while treating him overnight for kennel cough. Amelia’s mother and brother were suspects, so her boss gave her a paid leave of absence until the case was solved.
If I could add or change anything, I would wish for a list of characters, at least the primary ones, and in this case, a glossary for the more common Scottish terms used. I do enjoy them, and can’t wait until a good time to spring “numpty” on somebody!
I eagerly followed Amelia and Paislee through each leg of their “investigation” to find who killed McCormac and look into the puppy scheme. It firmly held my attention, and I wanted peace and safety for Paislee and Amelia. I couldn’t determine who the bad guys could be, though, and I was taken aback when learning who was involved in the murder and the puppy scheme! All crimes and associated bad guys were sorted out to my satisfaction. I highly recommend this novel and series, especially those who have Scotland on their travel bucket list.
December 14, 2025
Welcome back readers to our sixth book with Paislee Shaw and the Shaw Clan (Grandpa, Brody and Wallace). We are joining them for the holiday season in Nairn. Paislee doesn’t get to wake up Christmas morn in her own home because the repairs and remodeling are not yet complete. But never fear it won’t be long until Paislee, Grandpa, Brody and Wallace are back home in Gran’s house with a fabulous new kitchen area designed by our BFF Lydia! Hamish McCall is absent for a good part of the holiday break. He is needed back in his hometown of Inveraray to care for his mum.
We meet a whole new cast of characters from our Nairn community. The majority of them are vile and disgusting excuses for human beings! The one connection to these monsters is Paislee’s friend, Amelia Henry. We have met Amelia already; she is the receptionist at the local police station and a member of our Thursday evening Knit and Sip group and we love Amelia she is a good and honest person. Amelia is a true example of the old saying “you can pick your friends in life but not your family, well biological family anyways”.
When the New Year comes in with a bang – a body drops dead and it happens right in front of Paislee. This death at first seems to be one that we think will be classified as a crime of passion or a lesson not to mess with family pride as our victim is quite the player or ladies man. But when the evidence starts to pile up along with the snow from the nasty winter weather we come to another saying, “Money is the root of all EVIL!” Money is the key factor in this murder motive and the one body that falls at the stroke of midnight is not the only victim. In this case our Paislee will have dozens of innocent victims that in the end will turn out to be hundreds!
Paislee teams up with Amelia to figure out the clues. Our friend Amelia is put through an emotional ringer and will find herself in grave danger. With this storyline we encounter the most pure, innocent and lovable characters that God has put on this earth, and I wanted to mention this in my review for my fellow readers. But we also encounter vile and disgusting excuses for human beings. This plot was an exceptionally hard one for me to get through because of these two intertwining components. A true REAL LIFE horror story.
Paislee and Zeffer make an even greater connection in this book, at least to me. Their interactions are more heart-felt and caring, even in dealing with solving the case. Zeffer is softening a little towards Paislee, and I believe this will be the “Gent” Paislee picks, so yeah, Team Zeffer here!
How can fresh paint, fresh flowers, a new year, new beginnings, deceit, families from the wrong side of town and a tire iron all come together to reveal and catch a killer? Well, my fellow cozy mystery readers you will have to run out and get Book 6 to find out, and I bet you will never guess who dunnit !!
We meet a whole new cast of characters from our Nairn community. The majority of them are vile and disgusting excuses for human beings! The one connection to these monsters is Paislee’s friend, Amelia Henry. We have met Amelia already; she is the receptionist at the local police station and a member of our Thursday evening Knit and Sip group and we love Amelia she is a good and honest person. Amelia is a true example of the old saying “you can pick your friends in life but not your family, well biological family anyways”.
When the New Year comes in with a bang – a body drops dead and it happens right in front of Paislee. This death at first seems to be one that we think will be classified as a crime of passion or a lesson not to mess with family pride as our victim is quite the player or ladies man. But when the evidence starts to pile up along with the snow from the nasty winter weather we come to another saying, “Money is the root of all EVIL!” Money is the key factor in this murder motive and the one body that falls at the stroke of midnight is not the only victim. In this case our Paislee will have dozens of innocent victims that in the end will turn out to be hundreds!
Paislee teams up with Amelia to figure out the clues. Our friend Amelia is put through an emotional ringer and will find herself in grave danger. With this storyline we encounter the most pure, innocent and lovable characters that God has put on this earth, and I wanted to mention this in my review for my fellow readers. But we also encounter vile and disgusting excuses for human beings. This plot was an exceptionally hard one for me to get through because of these two intertwining components. A true REAL LIFE horror story.
Paislee and Zeffer make an even greater connection in this book, at least to me. Their interactions are more heart-felt and caring, even in dealing with solving the case. Zeffer is softening a little towards Paislee, and I believe this will be the “Gent” Paislee picks, so yeah, Team Zeffer here!
How can fresh paint, fresh flowers, a new year, new beginnings, deceit, families from the wrong side of town and a tire iron all come together to reveal and catch a killer? Well, my fellow cozy mystery readers you will have to run out and get Book 6 to find out, and I bet you will never guess who dunnit !!
September 21, 2024
Paislee Shaw owns Cashmere Crush, a yarn shop in Scotland. She lives with her young son Brody, her Grandpa, and their Scottish terrier Wallace. Since a pipe burst in her home leaving her with an unusable house, she's been staying in her best friend Lydia's condo. But it's the holidays, and she wants to be back in her own home for Christmas. But it can't be done until the repairs are finished -- so she'll just have to make do.
So she decides to have Christmas dinner at a local hotel, and invites her friend, police receptionist, Amelia Henry, to join her. Amelia shows up with her brother McCormac, who's come from Ireland to see her. It's obvious he's more than a little drunk, it's no hardship when he leaves early.
Fortunately, Lydia was able to offer incentive to the workers and Paislee is thrilled with her new kitchen. So much so, she'll be able to offer the traditional buffet feast to friends and family. But Hogmanay night -- New Year's Eve -- McCormac collapses, and everyone thinks he's just drunk. Except he's not. And now Amelia wants Paislee to find out who did this to McCormac, because she's been placed on leave from the station due to McCormac being her brother. Can Paislee find the killer? Or will it be something else that leads her to the truth?...
This is the sixth book in the series and I've enjoyed them all. The first one was a tad confusing, with the Scottish dialect, but I've picked up on what the words mean in English, so it's a breeze to get through (Scotland, here I come!). There are two plots in this tale -- one, the death of McCormac, and two, the pups that he gave to his sister and family as Christmas presents. I will say no more on the subject, as giving too much away (what I've said in the beginning is done early on), and I will not spoil the book for others.
Paislee tries to keep out of the investigation, but Amelia is desperate on two counts, and unfortunately, Paislee is drawn in once again to a murder investigation. There is also the problem of Hamish, who wants to keep seeing Paislee, and DI Zeffer, who is causing problems for her in more ways than one.
The clues are there along the way, but not easy to find; I appreciate this as I love nothing more than working my brain to put the puzzle together to find answers. The murderer is indeed a surprise; again, another thing I truly enjoyed. The ending comes together beautifully, and I will say that I hope things go in the direction that I think they are leading to. A terrific cozy for Christmas, and I would definitely recommend it to others.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review,
So she decides to have Christmas dinner at a local hotel, and invites her friend, police receptionist, Amelia Henry, to join her. Amelia shows up with her brother McCormac, who's come from Ireland to see her. It's obvious he's more than a little drunk, it's no hardship when he leaves early.
Fortunately, Lydia was able to offer incentive to the workers and Paislee is thrilled with her new kitchen. So much so, she'll be able to offer the traditional buffet feast to friends and family. But Hogmanay night -- New Year's Eve -- McCormac collapses, and everyone thinks he's just drunk. Except he's not. And now Amelia wants Paislee to find out who did this to McCormac, because she's been placed on leave from the station due to McCormac being her brother. Can Paislee find the killer? Or will it be something else that leads her to the truth?...
This is the sixth book in the series and I've enjoyed them all. The first one was a tad confusing, with the Scottish dialect, but I've picked up on what the words mean in English, so it's a breeze to get through (Scotland, here I come!). There are two plots in this tale -- one, the death of McCormac, and two, the pups that he gave to his sister and family as Christmas presents. I will say no more on the subject, as giving too much away (what I've said in the beginning is done early on), and I will not spoil the book for others.
Paislee tries to keep out of the investigation, but Amelia is desperate on two counts, and unfortunately, Paislee is drawn in once again to a murder investigation. There is also the problem of Hamish, who wants to keep seeing Paislee, and DI Zeffer, who is causing problems for her in more ways than one.
The clues are there along the way, but not easy to find; I appreciate this as I love nothing more than working my brain to put the puzzle together to find answers. The murderer is indeed a surprise; again, another thing I truly enjoyed. The ending comes together beautifully, and I will say that I hope things go in the direction that I think they are leading to. A terrific cozy for Christmas, and I would definitely recommend it to others.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review,
November 13, 2024
Book Review: Murder at a Scottish Christmas by Traci Hall
Rating: 3.5 Stars
So, I just finished Murder at a Scottish Christmas, the sixth book in Traci Hall’s delightful Scottish Shire Mystery series, and it was quite the cozy and festive treat! This book, set in the picturesque seaside village of Nairn, really captures the essence of the season. It’s got all the festive vibes you could ask for and even more!
Summary
In this installment, we follow Paislee Shaw, a sweater shop owner and knitting enthusiast, as she prepares to ring in the New Year. She’s got her hands full with plans for a holiday feast for her twelve-year-old son Brody, her grandpa, and their adorable black Scottish terrier, Wallace. The vibe is all about warmth and togetherness—until things take a dark turn. During the Hogmanay celebrations, with fireworks lighting up the sky, a shot rings out, leaving everyone in shock. McCormac, Amelia's brother, becomes the target in this deadly game of mystery. As chaos unfolds, Paislee takes it upon herself to help Detective Inspector Zeffer crack the case, even though it might put her own life at risk.
My Thoughts
First off, can we talk about how cute and festive the cover is? It totally sets the mood for a cozy mystery! I really enjoyed how Hall captured the small village charm of Nairn. It made me wish I could just pop over there for a Sip and Stitch event myself! The characters are just wonderful; they embody that Scottish pride and community spirit that makes you want to be part of their lives. I’ve grown quite fond of Paislee, her son Brody, grandpa Angus, and of course, Wallace.
The mystery itself was engaging and well plotted. There were enough twists and turns to keep me guessing right up to the very end. I loved that it wasn’t just about solving a crime; it was also about friendships and community bonds that made it all the more enjoyable. And speaking of enjoyment, I wouldn't mind seeing a little romance blossom between Paislee and Zeffer—just saying!
Overall, I’d definitely recommend Murder at a Scottish Christmas to all my cozy mystery-loving friends. It’s a lovely mix of festive cheer, intriguing mystery, and charming characters that make it worth picking up this holiday season. I’d give it a solid 3.5 stars! 🎄🧶✨
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Rating: 3.5 Stars
So, I just finished Murder at a Scottish Christmas, the sixth book in Traci Hall’s delightful Scottish Shire Mystery series, and it was quite the cozy and festive treat! This book, set in the picturesque seaside village of Nairn, really captures the essence of the season. It’s got all the festive vibes you could ask for and even more!
Summary
In this installment, we follow Paislee Shaw, a sweater shop owner and knitting enthusiast, as she prepares to ring in the New Year. She’s got her hands full with plans for a holiday feast for her twelve-year-old son Brody, her grandpa, and their adorable black Scottish terrier, Wallace. The vibe is all about warmth and togetherness—until things take a dark turn. During the Hogmanay celebrations, with fireworks lighting up the sky, a shot rings out, leaving everyone in shock. McCormac, Amelia's brother, becomes the target in this deadly game of mystery. As chaos unfolds, Paislee takes it upon herself to help Detective Inspector Zeffer crack the case, even though it might put her own life at risk.
My Thoughts
First off, can we talk about how cute and festive the cover is? It totally sets the mood for a cozy mystery! I really enjoyed how Hall captured the small village charm of Nairn. It made me wish I could just pop over there for a Sip and Stitch event myself! The characters are just wonderful; they embody that Scottish pride and community spirit that makes you want to be part of their lives. I’ve grown quite fond of Paislee, her son Brody, grandpa Angus, and of course, Wallace.
The mystery itself was engaging and well plotted. There were enough twists and turns to keep me guessing right up to the very end. I loved that it wasn’t just about solving a crime; it was also about friendships and community bonds that made it all the more enjoyable. And speaking of enjoyment, I wouldn't mind seeing a little romance blossom between Paislee and Zeffer—just saying!
Overall, I’d definitely recommend Murder at a Scottish Christmas to all my cozy mystery-loving friends. It’s a lovely mix of festive cheer, intriguing mystery, and charming characters that make it worth picking up this holiday season. I’d give it a solid 3.5 stars! 🎄🧶✨
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
July 4, 2025
Murder at a Scottish Christmas is the 6th book in the Scottish Shire Mystery series. This is a heartwarming cozy series that features Paislee Shaw, a hard-working single mom who owns her own specialty sweater and yarn boutique. Paislee even offers a "knit n sip" for the locals who like to work on a project while being social. This group of ladies are a great sounding board when it comes to reluctant sleuthing or life in general. The characters exude the same warmth and care that Paislee shows to everyone, even people who can be rather annoying, like the victim of this story. It really shouldn't be so hard to find a "first footer" to cross your threshold. This is a lovely tradition involving a dark-haired person walking through your front door after the stroke of midnight, making them the first person to step foot inside your house for the new year. It turns out that this was a tradition that my husband's paternal grandparents celebrated every year. His paternal grandfather was a first-generation citizen with a Scottish heritage. After reading this cozy, I decided that we needed to bring the tradition back. Thankfully we were not waiting on home renovations or running around looking for clues regarding a murder or a puppy smuggling ring. Paislee is an excellent friend, helping Amelia to find her puppy and get justice for her less than savory brother who had finally gotten himself is into more trouble than he could handle. There are plenty of suspects and clue chasing to keep you turning the pages. There is also the banter between DI Zeffer and Paislee. Hamish, the school master might seem like a smart match for Paislee, she is in no hurry to join the ranks of those in a relationship. I for one am #teamZeffer all the way. Looking forward to the next Scottish Shire Mystery.
July 14, 2024
Beloved smalltown Scottish knitting-store proprietor by day, Paislee Shaw’s long-awaited “free” time with her preteen son, elderly dad, Scottie dog, and friends during a well-earned Christmas break at her newly repaired home is starkly cut short when good friend and co-worker Amelia’s newly resurfaced (and formerly incarcerated) brother is shot dead at Nairn’s community Hogmanay evening fete at New Year’s. . .and Amelia promptly recruits Paislee as unofficial private investigator to crack the case, in hopes of also exonerating Amelia’s less-than-model-citizen family of any wrongdoing in the process. Paislee is about to make the acquaintance of a rogues’ gallery of. . .rogues! and their assorted nefarious hangers-on, any one of whom could have done the dirty deed. There is romantic tension, too, as Paislee may be in the sights of both handsome headmaster Hamish and determinedly dogged DI Mack, the latter of whom makes no bones about his desire for Paislee to stop interfering in his dangerous line of work—and with heart-stoppingly good reason. A possible long-distance puppy-smuggling operation uncovered could blow the lid off this tartan tinderbox. Readers might want to grab a nice hot cuppa to authenticate their date with this latest char-r-r-rmin’ chapter of a ver-r-r-ra cozy mystery series. . .you dinnae want to miss this one! (My only quibble: Since the action in this novel really takes off at Hogmanay, the Scottish New Year’s celebration, rather than Christmas, a more apropos title might have been “Murder at a Scottish New Year,” or “Horror at the Scottish Hogmanay,” perhaps?!)
September 12, 2024
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Traci Hall for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Murder at a Scottish Christmas coming out September 24, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
All Paislee wants for Christmas is for her new home to be finished, but it looks like she’ll have to wait for New Year’s Day. Whether the paint on the walls has dried or not, she’ll host a feast for her twelve-year-old son Brody, Grandpa, their black Scottish terrier Wallace, and friends—including police station receptionist Amelia Henry and her brother McCormac, whose black locks can fulfill the Scottish first-footer tradition that a tall, dark-haired man should be the first person to enter your home on New Year’s to bring good luck.
But McCormac’s luck is about to run out. During Hogmanay—when the Scots welcome the New Year with dancing, bonfires, and midnight fireworks—he collapses as the sky brightens in a blaze of color. A shooter has used the noise of the fireworks to hide a gun’s blast. Amelia is inconsolable, and Paislee vows to do whatever she can to help DI Zeffer solve the murder—even if it puts her in the killer’s sights next . . .
I have all of the books in this series, but this is the first one I’ve actually read. I love collecting Scottish cozy mysteries! I definitely need to go back and read the other books. This one was so fun though! I loved the Christmastime setting. The characters are all different. I loved that there was some romance and drama. I think the Scottish culture was definitely featured in this book. I loved all of it!
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy Scottish mysteries!
All Paislee wants for Christmas is for her new home to be finished, but it looks like she’ll have to wait for New Year’s Day. Whether the paint on the walls has dried or not, she’ll host a feast for her twelve-year-old son Brody, Grandpa, their black Scottish terrier Wallace, and friends—including police station receptionist Amelia Henry and her brother McCormac, whose black locks can fulfill the Scottish first-footer tradition that a tall, dark-haired man should be the first person to enter your home on New Year’s to bring good luck.
But McCormac’s luck is about to run out. During Hogmanay—when the Scots welcome the New Year with dancing, bonfires, and midnight fireworks—he collapses as the sky brightens in a blaze of color. A shooter has used the noise of the fireworks to hide a gun’s blast. Amelia is inconsolable, and Paislee vows to do whatever she can to help DI Zeffer solve the murder—even if it puts her in the killer’s sights next . . .
I have all of the books in this series, but this is the first one I’ve actually read. I love collecting Scottish cozy mysteries! I definitely need to go back and read the other books. This one was so fun though! I loved the Christmastime setting. The characters are all different. I loved that there was some romance and drama. I think the Scottish culture was definitely featured in this book. I loved all of it!
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy Scottish mysteries!
July 22, 2025
I think one of the biggest draws of this book continues to be the setting and the authentic Scottish experience. The author does not translate or try to explain any aspect for the audience. The reader will understand the importance of anything being discussed based on the context ( if they were previously unaware of the lingo or practice). This is very refreshing, especially since I have been following this series from the start and still find something new to learn from it.
Paislee is a very likeable character. In the last book she was finally moving out of her comfort zone to try and date but that too seems to be too much for her. Her mother is inching her way back into the story and we have yet another murder happen in front of her.
The plot itself builds because Paislee’s friend is directly impacted by the murder and she decides that no one trusts her and therefore she shouldn’t either. After being requested to help, Paislee uses her past experience to give structure to their amateur investigation.
The mystery of what caused the murder and the overall reveal was surprising and the pacing was slow at first but gradually got more convoluted.
I would recommend it to people who have been following the series since there’s a lot of backstory to the people although the case itself does stand alone.
I would recommend this book to fans of the genre and might read another if I get the chance.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience of this and the previous books in the series.
Paislee is a very likeable character. In the last book she was finally moving out of her comfort zone to try and date but that too seems to be too much for her. Her mother is inching her way back into the story and we have yet another murder happen in front of her.
The plot itself builds because Paislee’s friend is directly impacted by the murder and she decides that no one trusts her and therefore she shouldn’t either. After being requested to help, Paislee uses her past experience to give structure to their amateur investigation.
The mystery of what caused the murder and the overall reveal was surprising and the pacing was slow at first but gradually got more convoluted.
I would recommend it to people who have been following the series since there’s a lot of backstory to the people although the case itself does stand alone.
I would recommend this book to fans of the genre and might read another if I get the chance.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience of this and the previous books in the series.
October 31, 2024
🎀Relaxing holidays in Nairn? Not really!😕
This entertaining murder mystery has the series female lead Paislee Shaw spending what should be a relaxing break between Christmas and New Year's running around helping her friend Amelia whose "reformed" favorite brother has left a trail of romances and questions about his finances behind along with a bevy of adorable puppies. The more they investigate his shocking murder, the more Amelia realizes her brother was not the man she thought he'd become!
I've followed this Scottish Shire series through from its inception and always wondered how amateur detective Paislee could run a successful knitting shop with all the time she takes working on murder investigations. In this story, Paislee has closed her shop for the holidays expecting time to relax, spend quality time with her little family and knit more inventory. Great plan but time after time helping friend Amelia takes precedence.
I liked best the cozier scenes of Paislee with her rapidly growing son, grandfather and her BFF Lydia. Some events, like the Hogmanay and fireworks gatherings, included too many characters for me to keep track of.
The plot was good, with a wide range of characters, and a definite holiday feel. And, not to be ignored, some poor, adorable pups so deserving of a happy ending!🐕
Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
This entertaining murder mystery has the series female lead Paislee Shaw spending what should be a relaxing break between Christmas and New Year's running around helping her friend Amelia whose "reformed" favorite brother has left a trail of romances and questions about his finances behind along with a bevy of adorable puppies. The more they investigate his shocking murder, the more Amelia realizes her brother was not the man she thought he'd become!
I've followed this Scottish Shire series through from its inception and always wondered how amateur detective Paislee could run a successful knitting shop with all the time she takes working on murder investigations. In this story, Paislee has closed her shop for the holidays expecting time to relax, spend quality time with her little family and knit more inventory. Great plan but time after time helping friend Amelia takes precedence.
I liked best the cozier scenes of Paislee with her rapidly growing son, grandfather and her BFF Lydia. Some events, like the Hogmanay and fireworks gatherings, included too many characters for me to keep track of.
The plot was good, with a wide range of characters, and a definite holiday feel. And, not to be ignored, some poor, adorable pups so deserving of a happy ending!🐕
Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
December 24, 2024
3.75
Among my favourite cozy mystery series and thrilled to be able to spend some of my holiday with Paislee and company. I love her little family (granddad and son Brody) and there's the hint of some extended family drama in their future, which happily indicates we haven't reached the end of the series.
This book released at the perfect time -- Christmas Eve -- because, while it starts just a few days before Christmas, the mystery doesn't get started until New Year celebrations are under way. The title should actually be Murder at a Scottish New Year. :-) Loved all the cozy details of holiday celebrations in Scotland and all the family and friend interactions. The mystery was intriguing -- and unique for a cozy -- and I had fun trying to figure out the whodunnit. I did clue into the why's and wherefores way before Paislee did, but hadn't narrowed down the actual culprit until close to the end. I will admit that Paislee pulled one too many TSTL moves in the course of her sleuthing and while that kept the plot hopping, it aggravated me no end. Still a fan of the series though and am looking forward to the seventh book in the Scottish Shire Mystery series.
I listened to the audible edition and enjoyed Beverley A. Crick's narration immensely. She's been the voice of the series all the way through and I love the familiarity consistency in narration brings to my listening pleasure.
Among my favourite cozy mystery series and thrilled to be able to spend some of my holiday with Paislee and company. I love her little family (granddad and son Brody) and there's the hint of some extended family drama in their future, which happily indicates we haven't reached the end of the series.
This book released at the perfect time -- Christmas Eve -- because, while it starts just a few days before Christmas, the mystery doesn't get started until New Year celebrations are under way. The title should actually be Murder at a Scottish New Year. :-) Loved all the cozy details of holiday celebrations in Scotland and all the family and friend interactions. The mystery was intriguing -- and unique for a cozy -- and I had fun trying to figure out the whodunnit. I did clue into the why's and wherefores way before Paislee did, but hadn't narrowed down the actual culprit until close to the end. I will admit that Paislee pulled one too many TSTL moves in the course of her sleuthing and while that kept the plot hopping, it aggravated me no end. Still a fan of the series though and am looking forward to the seventh book in the Scottish Shire Mystery series.
I listened to the audible edition and enjoyed Beverley A. Crick's narration immensely. She's been the voice of the series all the way through and I love the familiarity consistency in narration brings to my listening pleasure.
November 30, 2024
Paislee and her family are so happy to be back in their home that they have extra to be celebrating at Hogmanay. Just as the height of the fireworks, her friend Amelia’s brother is murdered. She is the black sheep in her family of villains and she believes her brother has shed his evil ways and gone straight. She refuses to believe that his largesse when he returned home is not legit that she is determined to find his killer and clear up his name. She is going to be sorely disappointed when she discovers how deeply embedded he is in some very wicked crimes that involve some very innocent victims. It is going to make her rethink her own future but not before she puts herself, Paislee( who has been driving her around the Highlands to be helpful) and one of the detectives on the case in mortal danger.
It is a good story and while Amelia is blinded by loyalty, Paislee is not. But she has promised to help her friend even when she suspects there are some nefarious dealings going on. She does put herself in harm’s way but tries to be careful and clever and her efforts can only be applauded. No Darwin Award nominee at all. I enjoyed the story as I have enjoyed the series. Four purrs and two paws up.
It is a good story and while Amelia is blinded by loyalty, Paislee is not. But she has promised to help her friend even when she suspects there are some nefarious dealings going on. She does put herself in harm’s way but tries to be careful and clever and her efforts can only be applauded. No Darwin Award nominee at all. I enjoyed the story as I have enjoyed the series. Four purrs and two paws up.
September 14, 2024
"Murder at a Scottish Christmas” the 6th instalment in the Scottish Shire Mystery series by Traci Hall. This has become one of my favourite Scottish cozy mysteries! I absolutely loved this instalment and can’t wait for book 7. The holidays in the charming seaside village of Nairn hold bright hope for sweater shop owner and knitting enthusiast Paislee Shaw—but a fireworks celebration provides cover for a killer
I find the characters to be wonderful, full of Scottish pride and small village life, I wouldn’t mind living there myself and attending the Sip and Stitch. I love visiting Nairn and Paislee, her son Brody, grandpa Angus and of course Wallace the dog. I’m hoping Daisy becomes part of the family in the next book. Now I wouldn’t mind something happening with Zeffer and Paislee…
The mystery is interesting, well plotted, full of lots of twists and kept me guessing on whodunnit right to the reveal.
I highly recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Kensington Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I find the characters to be wonderful, full of Scottish pride and small village life, I wouldn’t mind living there myself and attending the Sip and Stitch. I love visiting Nairn and Paislee, her son Brody, grandpa Angus and of course Wallace the dog. I’m hoping Daisy becomes part of the family in the next book. Now I wouldn’t mind something happening with Zeffer and Paislee…
The mystery is interesting, well plotted, full of lots of twists and kept me guessing on whodunnit right to the reveal.
I highly recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Kensington Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 23, 2025
A Scottish Shire Mystery #6. This addition to the series starts with us celebrating Christmas in Nairn, Scotland. Don’t let the title or adorable cover fool you though. January was the perfect time to read this story since 75% of it takes place after New Year’s Eve. I did enjoy a brief glimpse into a few Scottish holiday traditions. I learned about Hogmanay, Burns supper and was introduced to local dishes such as skirlie, rumbledethumps and black bun.
I really enjoy this cast of characters and it has been fun watching them develop as the series progresses. Paislee, Grandpa Angus and Brody are a cute and incredibly realistic family. I’m glad to see them back in their cozy, yet updated home thanks to Lydia. We really get to know more about Amelia throughout this book. My heart went out to her upon meeting and witnessing the actions of her family members.
That sweet dog on the cover, Wallace, typically steals the spotlight. However, this story is full of several adorable puppies who stole the focus. The mystery centered around purebred dogs, smuggling and lots of shady actions. There were so many plausible suspects and dislikable characters. I was left guessing until the big reveal.
The love triangle persists. I’m still holding firm to Team Zeffer. I just don’t sense a romantic connection between Paislee and Hamish. I’m looking forward to continuing this series. There was an interesting side story where we are introduced to Paislee’s mother. I’m curious to see if the two reunite and if she will be involved in the next mystery.
I really enjoy this cast of characters and it has been fun watching them develop as the series progresses. Paislee, Grandpa Angus and Brody are a cute and incredibly realistic family. I’m glad to see them back in their cozy, yet updated home thanks to Lydia. We really get to know more about Amelia throughout this book. My heart went out to her upon meeting and witnessing the actions of her family members.
That sweet dog on the cover, Wallace, typically steals the spotlight. However, this story is full of several adorable puppies who stole the focus. The mystery centered around purebred dogs, smuggling and lots of shady actions. There were so many plausible suspects and dislikable characters. I was left guessing until the big reveal.
The love triangle persists. I’m still holding firm to Team Zeffer. I just don’t sense a romantic connection between Paislee and Hamish. I’m looking forward to continuing this series. There was an interesting side story where we are introduced to Paislee’s mother. I’m curious to see if the two reunite and if she will be involved in the next mystery.
January 22, 2025
This would have been a four star read if not for all of the whining Amelia did for most of the book. It got really old. Otherwise, great fun to be back with Paislee and the crew in Nairn. I so appreciate Angus, Lydia and the rest of Paislee's friends and family. The puppies sound adorable making me wish I had a couple here to cuddle with. The story was moving along nicely until the Hogmanay celebration. Knowing Amelia lost her brother to a bullet during the fireworks at the celebration, I tried to give her room to express her feelings, but the more she asked of Paislee while refusing to do the things that made the most sense and what she, as an employee with the police knew she should do, the more aggravated I was with her. Once she accepted the fact that her brother might not be who and what she thought, the story picked up and moved along. I was left guessing until the end as to who the killer was and the extent different characters were involved in the illegal activities.
Overall, great plot, caring community, fun locale. I'll be back to Nairn.
Overall, great plot, caring community, fun locale. I'll be back to Nairn.
September 12, 2024
Paisley Shaw is looking forward to a break from her knitting shop after Christmas. She is hoping to get back into her home after needed repairs are finished and spending time with her family. Her friends make the seemingly impossible happen and she’s home for Christmas! Soon, she’s having an open house for friends with Grandpa, her tween son Brody, and their Scottie, Wallace. While celebrating Hogmanay at a festival, the brother of Paisley’s friend (Amelia) is shot and killed. Amelia comes from a long line of criminals, but she has chosen the lawful life and believed her brother had, too. There are adorable puppies, a suitcase of money, and many suspects and Paisley and Amelia are busy figuring out what is going on.
This is a fun cozy mystery set in Scotland and I enjoyed learning more about Scottish holiday customs and their foods. Now I want to sit down with my knitting needles and my dog and look forward to the next Scottish Shire Mystery.
This is a fun cozy mystery set in Scotland and I enjoyed learning more about Scottish holiday customs and their foods. Now I want to sit down with my knitting needles and my dog and look forward to the next Scottish Shire Mystery.
September 20, 2024
Paislee Shaw is back in Murder at a Scottish Christmas. This is the sixth addition to the Scottish Series by Traci Hall. Life has found a pattern for Paislee and family even if the newly renovated home with not be ready for Christmas. Still a party during Hogmanay is in order for family and friends. What should be a joyous occasion turns tragic when her friend’s brother is killed.
By trade, Paisley is a Scottish knitting-store proprietor but she is not resistant to doing some sleuthing too. When asked to investigate and help find the murderer, she does not even think of saying no. With son and father still needing her support she still manages to investigate this terrible crime. Of course, Wallace, her little terrier, is there to help if needed. I so enjoy seeing this group in action.
A cozy Scottish mystery that has intrigue but no real gore, or bad language, it is an entertaining read for all mystery fans.
By trade, Paisley is a Scottish knitting-store proprietor but she is not resistant to doing some sleuthing too. When asked to investigate and help find the murderer, she does not even think of saying no. With son and father still needing her support she still manages to investigate this terrible crime. Of course, Wallace, her little terrier, is there to help if needed. I so enjoy seeing this group in action.
A cozy Scottish mystery that has intrigue but no real gore, or bad language, it is an entertaining read for all mystery fans.
September 13, 2024
#MurderataScottishChristmas #NetGalley featuring Paislee Shaw is a great addition to this series.
Paislee is more than ready to move back into her home, especially for Christmas.
Things soon take a strange turn with the appearance of her friend Amelia's brother, who does not have the best reputation. Amelia's brother McCormac is flashing money around, and with his shady past, everyone becomes suspicious. When he gives Amelia an expensive puppy for Christmas, things get worse, and Paislee is soon involved in a murder investigation, a possible puppy mill, and what to do with a suitcase full of money.
I really enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to the next book, because I need to know what happens with the puppies!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Paislee is more than ready to move back into her home, especially for Christmas.
Things soon take a strange turn with the appearance of her friend Amelia's brother, who does not have the best reputation. Amelia's brother McCormac is flashing money around, and with his shady past, everyone becomes suspicious. When he gives Amelia an expensive puppy for Christmas, things get worse, and Paislee is soon involved in a murder investigation, a possible puppy mill, and what to do with a suitcase full of money.
I really enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to the next book, because I need to know what happens with the puppies!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
November 3, 2024
A different twist in Paislee Shaw mystery solving ability. She takes a back seat this time by helping her friend Amelia Henry solve not one but two mysteries. One being who murdered her brother? What was he into that he had so much cash to flash and giving expensive Christmas gifts. Amelia fell in love with the cute puppy her brother’s last gift to her, but Snowball is sick and the Vet she was advised to use seems a little shady. Then Snowball goes missing and the Vet was the last person to have her. Is somehow the Vet her brother recommended involved with her brother and the sudden influx of cash? Thankfully Paislee is able to drive her around and help figure out what is going on.
Once again a page turning cozy with a great ending. Thank you #NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions expressed are mine own. #MurderataScottishChristmas
Once again a page turning cozy with a great ending. Thank you #NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions expressed are mine own. #MurderataScottishChristmas
March 31, 2025
This is the sixth book in the "Scottish Shire Mystery" series. The series of books is a lighthearted crime series where the main character who runs a knitting store ends up solving a murder in each book. It is a mixture of family/friends drama and investigation.
This book to me is more of a relaxing mindless read, one that I don't have to really pay attention while reading. Perfect for a bedtime read.
While I enjoyed this book, there were two things I did not like. (1) Parts of it felt like a bad after-school TV special where kids learn the danger of something. In this case we learned that dog smuggling and puppy mills are bad. There was no subtlety, especially with the veterinarian. (2) The character of Amelia was just annoying and the things she did were just stupid.
I think if you like the first five books in the series that you will also like this book.
This book to me is more of a relaxing mindless read, one that I don't have to really pay attention while reading. Perfect for a bedtime read.
While I enjoyed this book, there were two things I did not like. (1) Parts of it felt like a bad after-school TV special where kids learn the danger of something. In this case we learned that dog smuggling and puppy mills are bad. There was no subtlety, especially with the veterinarian. (2) The character of Amelia was just annoying and the things she did were just stupid.
I think if you like the first five books in the series that you will also like this book.
December 23, 2025
Took way too long to get to the mystery
Having not read any other books in the series, I found I just jumped in without too much introduction. I became disconnected because of that. I had no attachment to this world and characters at first. The first third was just basically about their lives and such. I wasn’t interested in that so much and wanted the mystery more.
Even though it did take place during Christmas Day to New Year’s, I wouldn’t consider this a Christmas cozy. It showed how they celebrated and stuff, but I wanted more holiday feels and anticipating Christmas more than actually be in it.
In my opinion it took over half the book to actively get to the actual mystery. In a way I was checked out because of that. It wasn’t a bad mystery. It had some twists and turns along the way, but I wasn’t invested in it like I would have been if it started sooner.
Having not read any other books in the series, I found I just jumped in without too much introduction. I became disconnected because of that. I had no attachment to this world and characters at first. The first third was just basically about their lives and such. I wasn’t interested in that so much and wanted the mystery more.
Even though it did take place during Christmas Day to New Year’s, I wouldn’t consider this a Christmas cozy. It showed how they celebrated and stuff, but I wanted more holiday feels and anticipating Christmas more than actually be in it.
In my opinion it took over half the book to actively get to the actual mystery. In a way I was checked out because of that. It wasn’t a bad mystery. It had some twists and turns along the way, but I wasn’t invested in it like I would have been if it started sooner.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2024
The latest in this enjoyable, Scotland-set series has a wintry feeling and all the characters series reader enjoy catching up with. Paislee gets caught up in a mystery surrounding a murder and lots of unfortunate puppies while still trying to manage her home life and her business. The mystery is interesting and the Scottish setting is always a bonus. There were a few points that worked less well for me in this one than in past books in the series, including some reactions that felt off and some personal matters that seem to be dragging on after several books. That said, I always enjoy the series and will look forward to the next one. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy. All views are entirely my own and are offered voluntarily
September 26, 2024
It might be Christmas time, but that doesn't stop crime from happening. Paislee is in the thick of things when her friend asks for help in solving her brothers murder. Plus there is something going on with the puppies that were gifted as Christmas presents. Is everything connected? Or is it all a coincidence?
Murder At A Scottish Christmas is an excellent addition to Hall's A Scottish Shire Mystery series. I enjoyed the mysteries, the danger and suspense, the characters, the setting, and the possibilty of DI Zeffer.
Highly recommend this book and series.
Many thanks to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book. My thoughts and opinions are my own and without bias or favor or expectation.
Murder At A Scottish Christmas is an excellent addition to Hall's A Scottish Shire Mystery series. I enjoyed the mysteries, the danger and suspense, the characters, the setting, and the possibilty of DI Zeffer.
Highly recommend this book and series.
Many thanks to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book. My thoughts and opinions are my own and without bias or favor or expectation.
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