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DI Kelso Strang #6
Deadfall
Previously published as Cradle to Grave
There's something sinister about Drumdalloch Woods in the Black Isle near Inverness. It is a place of tangled growth and shadowy darkness, it has business opportunists, biological scientists and conflicted family members all competing for a say in its future. Then a body is found, and everything starts to look suspicious.
As DCI Kelso Strang's investigation grows more complex, he unearths layers of hatred, greed and revenge that cast doubt even on the local police force. Having only just found happiness with his new girlfriend, Cat Fleming, Strang faces an existential threat not only to his career but to his very life.
There's something sinister about Drumdalloch Woods in the Black Isle near Inverness. It is a place of tangled growth and shadowy darkness, it has business opportunists, biological scientists and conflicted family members all competing for a say in its future. Then a body is found, and everything starts to look suspicious.
As DCI Kelso Strang's investigation grows more complex, he unearths layers of hatred, greed and revenge that cast doubt even on the local police force. Having only just found happiness with his new girlfriend, Cat Fleming, Strang faces an existential threat not only to his career but to his very life.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published November 25, 2010
364 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
About the author
Aline Templeton
37 books129 followersAline Templeton grew up in the East Neuk of Fife and was educated at St Leonards School, St Andrews and Cambridge University. She has worked in education and broadcasting and has written numerous stories and articles for national newspapers and magazines. Templeton was a bench Justice of the Peace for ten years and is a former Chair of the Society of Authors in Scotland, now living in Edinburgh. She is married with a grown up family.
She has written nine crime novels, published by Hodder & Stoughton in Britain, and has also been published in the United States and several European countries. After writing seven stand-alone books, she started a series set in Galloway and featuring DI Marjory Fleming, the first of which – Cold In The Earth – was an Ottakar's Crime Novel of the Month and an Independent Best Summer Read. The second, The Darkness and the Deep, was published in July 2006, and there are now six books in the DI Fleming series.
She has written nine crime novels, published by Hodder & Stoughton in Britain, and has also been published in the United States and several European countries. After writing seven stand-alone books, she started a series set in Galloway and featuring DI Marjory Fleming, the first of which – Cold In The Earth – was an Ottakar's Crime Novel of the Month and an Independent Best Summer Read. The second, The Darkness and the Deep, was published in July 2006, and there are now six books in the DI Fleming series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
November 28, 2024
EXCERPT: ' . . . But no, it's not her house, we share it. There's a lot needs sorting out so it won't be in quite such bad repair when it comes to selling it.'
The boy had turned his head sharply. 'You're going to sell it? Just like that? Grandad said you couldn't, that it was to be handed on like it is . . .'
Perry ground his teeth. That could have been the boy's mother talking - not that he'd ever believed she meant what she said. 'Grandad was running the place into the ground. He was spending the money he'd inherited in a reckless way and if it had gone on like that there'd be nothing left.'
His son's silence was so icy that Perry could almost feel the draught on his skin. Then James said, in a low voice, 'So did you kill him as well, before that could happen?'
ABOUT 'DEADFALL': There is something sinister about Drumdalloch Woods in the Black Isle near Inverness. It is a place of tangled growth and shadowy darkness, and it has business opportunists, biological scientists and conflicted family members all competing for a say in its future. Then a body is found, and everything starts to look suspicious.
As DCI Kelso Strang's investigation grows more complex, he unearths layers of hatred, greed and revenge that cast suspicion even on the local police force. Having only just found happiness with his new girlfriend, Cat Fleming, Strang faces an existential threat not only to his career but to his very life.
MY THOUGHTS: I have loved the DCI Strang series up until this point. Deadfall is definitely not measuring up to the standard set by the earlier books.
It takes an extremely long time for the scene to be set. Neither the plot nor the writing flowed, the majority of the characters are unstable, and most issues remain unresolved at the end. If I hadn't known in advance who had written this, I would never have picked Aline Templeton as the author.
Deadfall starts off well enough. One of the few believable characters, Lachie McIvor, who lives in a decaying shepherd's bothy on the edge of the estate, finds a body in the woods. There is a dark and menacing tone to the prologue which, unfortunately, doesn't carry through to the rest of the book.
The narrative then jumps forwards three years to 2023 and the madness begins. And I mean madness. Other than Lachie, DCI Strang, and a couple of Strang's detectives, none of the main characters are particularly believable. They all behave like squabbling, badly behaved, tantrum throwing, petulant or needy children.
There are secret plans and plots concerning the fate of the woods; people scheming against one another; emotional blackmail; child neglect and bullying. The waters are further muddied by the inclusion of a police corruption thread.
I ended this read feeling dissatisfied, both with the messy structure and the equally messy characters. I missed the easy, compelling reading that has been my previous experience with this author.
⭐⭐.5
#Deadfall #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: Aline Templeton grew up in the fishing village of Anstruther, in the East Neuk of Fife. She has worked in education and broadcasting and was a Justice of the Peace for ten years. Married, with a son and daughter and four grandchildren, she lived in Edinburgh for many years but now lives in Kent.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Allison & Busby via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of Deadfall by Aline Templeton for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
The boy had turned his head sharply. 'You're going to sell it? Just like that? Grandad said you couldn't, that it was to be handed on like it is . . .'
Perry ground his teeth. That could have been the boy's mother talking - not that he'd ever believed she meant what she said. 'Grandad was running the place into the ground. He was spending the money he'd inherited in a reckless way and if it had gone on like that there'd be nothing left.'
His son's silence was so icy that Perry could almost feel the draught on his skin. Then James said, in a low voice, 'So did you kill him as well, before that could happen?'
ABOUT 'DEADFALL': There is something sinister about Drumdalloch Woods in the Black Isle near Inverness. It is a place of tangled growth and shadowy darkness, and it has business opportunists, biological scientists and conflicted family members all competing for a say in its future. Then a body is found, and everything starts to look suspicious.
As DCI Kelso Strang's investigation grows more complex, he unearths layers of hatred, greed and revenge that cast suspicion even on the local police force. Having only just found happiness with his new girlfriend, Cat Fleming, Strang faces an existential threat not only to his career but to his very life.
MY THOUGHTS: I have loved the DCI Strang series up until this point. Deadfall is definitely not measuring up to the standard set by the earlier books.
It takes an extremely long time for the scene to be set. Neither the plot nor the writing flowed, the majority of the characters are unstable, and most issues remain unresolved at the end. If I hadn't known in advance who had written this, I would never have picked Aline Templeton as the author.
Deadfall starts off well enough. One of the few believable characters, Lachie McIvor, who lives in a decaying shepherd's bothy on the edge of the estate, finds a body in the woods. There is a dark and menacing tone to the prologue which, unfortunately, doesn't carry through to the rest of the book.
The narrative then jumps forwards three years to 2023 and the madness begins. And I mean madness. Other than Lachie, DCI Strang, and a couple of Strang's detectives, none of the main characters are particularly believable. They all behave like squabbling, badly behaved, tantrum throwing, petulant or needy children.
There are secret plans and plots concerning the fate of the woods; people scheming against one another; emotional blackmail; child neglect and bullying. The waters are further muddied by the inclusion of a police corruption thread.
I ended this read feeling dissatisfied, both with the messy structure and the equally messy characters. I missed the easy, compelling reading that has been my previous experience with this author.
⭐⭐.5
#Deadfall #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: Aline Templeton grew up in the fishing village of Anstruther, in the East Neuk of Fife. She has worked in education and broadcasting and was a Justice of the Peace for ten years. Married, with a son and daughter and four grandchildren, she lived in Edinburgh for many years but now lives in Kent.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Allison & Busby via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of Deadfall by Aline Templeton for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
December 3, 2024
Deadfall is the sixth edition to the DI Kelso Strang thriller series by Aline Templeton set in Scotland. Although it is the first I’ve read, I felt it worked fairly well as a standalone. However, I did have some problems with it which may have been due to my not having read the other books. The pace of the first third of the story seemed very slow as the setting and the plot are set up and the characters introduced and, admittedly, it took a while to engage me. However, when it did get going, it grabbed me and didn’t let go. The end, itself, was left open with no complete resolution although the solution was certainly hinted at. Oddly, this actually worked for me since I suspect this is true of many crimes where the police are sure of the perpetrator but haven’t the evidence to prove it. Overall, despite my criticisms of the book, once it got going, I found it very enjoyable and well-written with an interesting mystery and would definitely read more ny this author in the future.
3.5 rounded up to 4
Thanks to Netgalley and Allison and Busby for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
3.5 rounded up to 4
Thanks to Netgalley and Allison and Busby for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
November 29, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed “Deadfall” by Aline Templeton. It contained many features I consider essential for a good mystery:
1) Good writing (the most important component);
2) Character-driven rather than plot-driven; and
3) Sensory images that immerse the reader in the setting.
Although “Deadfall” is the sixth instalment of the Kelso Strang series, it was the first Aline Templeton novel I have read. At no point did I feel lost. Enough information was provided about Strang to enable me to understand his actions, but the story focused more directly on the needs and motivations of characters embroiled in a unique setting .
Brief Synopsis
The Drumdalloch Woods is a privately owned forest situated on the Black Isle in the Scottish Highlands. Filled with thick, dark trees, a sanctuary for woodland birds, its owner, Giles Forsyth, considered Drumdalloch a sacred trust to be passed on to future generations. Giles did not believe that either of his two children—Oriole, his daughter, or Perry, his son—would carry on this historic legacy and consequently was planning to bequeath it to his daughter-in-law, Helena. Then Helena died in a freak accident. Or was it an accident? Her ten-year-old son, Jay, didn’t believe that it was, but no one listened to him.
Three years later, Giles has died and his two children are waiting for approval of their ownership rights. Oriole, still lives in the large deteriorating house in the woods and is struggling to pay her bills; Perry, who works for his cousins—a branch of the wealthy Forsyths in Edinburgh—has been living comfortably until he is laid off from the family firm during an economic downturn. No one at his firm was sorry to see him go, as several staff members had accused him of bullying and harassment. The loss of his generous salary means that he must return to Drumdalloch, accompanied by Jay, his sullen thirteen-year-old son.
Several people have plans for Drumdalloch. Pompous Professor Michael Erskine views getting the woods officially transferred to the Institute for Studies in Biological Sciences as his way to academic respectability. After all, the Institute has had unfettered access to them for scientific research for almost 100 years. Hot tempered Norwegian graduate student, Lars Andersen, is consumed by his own research project and wants nothing to interfere with his work. Hotel owner Steve Christie needs Perry’s cooperation to include the woods in a luxury hotel investment. And Perry intends to sell to the highest bidder.
Another death, and this one was not an accident, although it doesn’t appear to have been a well-planned murder. After being struck in the head, the victim toppled into a pond and drowned; it appeared to be an opportunistic crime, one committed on impulse. Called in to carry out the investigation, DCI Strang collected his overnight bag and drove to the isolated peninsula. He was followed by his regular (and favourite) assistant, DS Livvy Murray. But what appeared to be a simple act of temper turns out not to be so simple to unravel, as Strang and Murray dig deeper.
What I Liked
1) I thoroughly enjoyed the description of the setting—the woods, alternatively ominous and majestic, mysterious and yet home to hundreds of birds that formed a chorus to greet visitors. To a Canadian reader, it seemed very familiar, close to home, even if the mixture of exotic trees, planted as a private sanctuary, differed from what I typically see in my homeland. But the important thing was that the author’s narrative helped me see and hear the environment.
2) Many of the characters were well-drawn, and unique, not stereotypes. I especially liked the picture of Oriole as it unfolded by showing how others viewed her, as well as her own thought patterns. Awkward, graceless, with a sad-spaniel face and a tendency to continuously talk whenever given the slightest amount of attention, most people pitied her. Steve Christie was her opposite—charming, well-liked, but hiding secret fears. Even Lachie MacIver, a minor character who played a small but significant role, was distinct. Only a major villain was conventionally villainous, but no attempt was made to hide his nefarious personality from the moment he made his first appearance.
3) As mentioned earlier, I loved the author’s writing style—descriptive, yet clear, not pretentious. I quickly flew through the story, finishing it in record time (for me).
What I Didn’t Like
In terms of the police investigation, the killer was identified. But a comment near the end showed that, although guilty of many things, he couldn’t have committed the opportunistic murder. It was left to DS Murray, in her mind, to make the connections that solved that crime. But there was no proof, and Murray decided to leave it be, because it was just a “gut” feeling about who was responsible.
Initially, because of this ambiguous ending, I was going to give “Deadfall” a four-star rating. But then, while re-reading sections of the book to write this review, I came across a passage early in the story that predicted exactly how the real killer thought. The solution was planted early, and easily overlooked by the multitude of details that followed. So, in light of the fact that I overlooked this clue, I am rating it as 4.5 stars, upped to 5.
Thanks to Allison & Busby for providing an electronic copy of this book via Netgalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinions.
1) Good writing (the most important component);
2) Character-driven rather than plot-driven; and
3) Sensory images that immerse the reader in the setting.
Although “Deadfall” is the sixth instalment of the Kelso Strang series, it was the first Aline Templeton novel I have read. At no point did I feel lost. Enough information was provided about Strang to enable me to understand his actions, but the story focused more directly on the needs and motivations of characters embroiled in a unique setting .
Brief Synopsis
The Drumdalloch Woods is a privately owned forest situated on the Black Isle in the Scottish Highlands. Filled with thick, dark trees, a sanctuary for woodland birds, its owner, Giles Forsyth, considered Drumdalloch a sacred trust to be passed on to future generations. Giles did not believe that either of his two children—Oriole, his daughter, or Perry, his son—would carry on this historic legacy and consequently was planning to bequeath it to his daughter-in-law, Helena. Then Helena died in a freak accident. Or was it an accident? Her ten-year-old son, Jay, didn’t believe that it was, but no one listened to him.
Three years later, Giles has died and his two children are waiting for approval of their ownership rights. Oriole, still lives in the large deteriorating house in the woods and is struggling to pay her bills; Perry, who works for his cousins—a branch of the wealthy Forsyths in Edinburgh—has been living comfortably until he is laid off from the family firm during an economic downturn. No one at his firm was sorry to see him go, as several staff members had accused him of bullying and harassment. The loss of his generous salary means that he must return to Drumdalloch, accompanied by Jay, his sullen thirteen-year-old son.
Several people have plans for Drumdalloch. Pompous Professor Michael Erskine views getting the woods officially transferred to the Institute for Studies in Biological Sciences as his way to academic respectability. After all, the Institute has had unfettered access to them for scientific research for almost 100 years. Hot tempered Norwegian graduate student, Lars Andersen, is consumed by his own research project and wants nothing to interfere with his work. Hotel owner Steve Christie needs Perry’s cooperation to include the woods in a luxury hotel investment. And Perry intends to sell to the highest bidder.
Another death, and this one was not an accident, although it doesn’t appear to have been a well-planned murder. After being struck in the head, the victim toppled into a pond and drowned; it appeared to be an opportunistic crime, one committed on impulse. Called in to carry out the investigation, DCI Strang collected his overnight bag and drove to the isolated peninsula. He was followed by his regular (and favourite) assistant, DS Livvy Murray. But what appeared to be a simple act of temper turns out not to be so simple to unravel, as Strang and Murray dig deeper.
What I Liked
1) I thoroughly enjoyed the description of the setting—the woods, alternatively ominous and majestic, mysterious and yet home to hundreds of birds that formed a chorus to greet visitors. To a Canadian reader, it seemed very familiar, close to home, even if the mixture of exotic trees, planted as a private sanctuary, differed from what I typically see in my homeland. But the important thing was that the author’s narrative helped me see and hear the environment.
2) Many of the characters were well-drawn, and unique, not stereotypes. I especially liked the picture of Oriole as it unfolded by showing how others viewed her, as well as her own thought patterns. Awkward, graceless, with a sad-spaniel face and a tendency to continuously talk whenever given the slightest amount of attention, most people pitied her. Steve Christie was her opposite—charming, well-liked, but hiding secret fears. Even Lachie MacIver, a minor character who played a small but significant role, was distinct. Only a major villain was conventionally villainous, but no attempt was made to hide his nefarious personality from the moment he made his first appearance.
3) As mentioned earlier, I loved the author’s writing style—descriptive, yet clear, not pretentious. I quickly flew through the story, finishing it in record time (for me).
What I Didn’t Like
In terms of the police investigation, the killer was identified. But a comment near the end showed that, although guilty of many things, he couldn’t have committed the opportunistic murder. It was left to DS Murray, in her mind, to make the connections that solved that crime. But there was no proof, and Murray decided to leave it be, because it was just a “gut” feeling about who was responsible.
Initially, because of this ambiguous ending, I was going to give “Deadfall” a four-star rating. But then, while re-reading sections of the book to write this review, I came across a passage early in the story that predicted exactly how the real killer thought. The solution was planted early, and easily overlooked by the multitude of details that followed. So, in light of the fact that I overlooked this clue, I am rating it as 4.5 stars, upped to 5.
Thanks to Allison & Busby for providing an electronic copy of this book via Netgalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinions.
November 25, 2024
2.75 stars. This was the first one of the DCI Strang series I’ve read, so I didn’t have any past books to draw on here. Strang was nice enough, but the rest of the characters were mostly unlikeable. Cat comes over as very young and insecure, Murray is unrequited love, and as for the Forsyths, Sinclair and Drummond, they’re all very unlikeable. There wasn’t really any nuance to their personalities, so Drummond isn’t just a corrupt and scary copper, he is almost a pantomime overdone villain. Oriole is very wet and ineffectual.
The plot plods along with lots of hints at plans and lots of talk about the woods, but nothing really picks up until near the end. But unless I missed something, it didn’t really resolve the plot with any clarity? The only thing worse than a slow read is one that doesn’t even wrap things up at the end.
From other reviews, it appears this might be the weaker in the series, in which case it’s unfortunate that has been my introduction. So in the interest of making sure, I will read the other few books I’ve got by this author, to give it a fair shake.
I received a free ARC copy of this via NetGalley and the publishers in return for an unbiased review.
The plot plods along with lots of hints at plans and lots of talk about the woods, but nothing really picks up until near the end. But unless I missed something, it didn’t really resolve the plot with any clarity? The only thing worse than a slow read is one that doesn’t even wrap things up at the end.
From other reviews, it appears this might be the weaker in the series, in which case it’s unfortunate that has been my introduction. So in the interest of making sure, I will read the other few books I’ve got by this author, to give it a fair shake.
I received a free ARC copy of this via NetGalley and the publishers in return for an unbiased review.
October 1, 2024
With many thanks to Netgalley for this free arc and I am leaving this unbiased review voluntarily.
Deadfall sees the return of the wonderful Kelso Strang in this high end Scottish police procedural. Aline Templeton really does like to take her time setting the scene and laying the foundations and therefore it is quite a while before Kelso comes properly into the story. This is when the pace really starts to ramp up and things start to get interesting. An array of fascinating characters makes for plenty of suspects as we follow Kelso and the delightful Livvy as they put the pieces together. My least favourite in the series but still an enjoyable read 3.5 ⭐️
November 23, 2024
I like this series. But this on disappointed. It was obvious who the perpetrator was in one crime and probably in both. The police were chasing their tails and the plot was bit disjointed. The ending unresolved except in one part of the plot. I dislike intensely unresolved plots. So many unresolved bits that makes rethink this might be picked up next time around. If there isa next time.
November 21, 2025
Little slow at the beginning but once it picked up I was hooked and enjoyed it quite a bit!
November 19, 2024
Drumdalloch House is surrounded by woods on the Black Isle near Inverness. The Grandmother had planted many special trees, and their parents had taken care of them. At this time, the house is decaying and there are several local students and other volunteers who are working among the trees. Early in the book, the Members of the family are Giles Forsyth, the father, Perry the son, Oriole the daughter, Helena, Perry's wife, and Jay, the young son of Perry and Helena. Perry has been working in the city and is usually only around on weekends.
There are students and faculty from a nearby college as well as volunteer working on the valuable trees in the woods. When a student working finds Helena dead from a bird shelf in a tree landing on her head, Oriole calls the police. Local policeman, Drummond investigates, and determines that Helena's death was an accident. However, Jay thinks that his father or aunt had killed her because they wanted to make money from the trees, and he becomes difficult to control. Oriole wants to keep the forest as her grandmother had wanted, but Perry wants to get some income from it.
We soon find that Perry has joined with two friends, the policeman Drummond and the nearby hotel owner Steve, to sell the hotel and start a new luxury hotel at the Drumdalloch site. When Oriole has an accident similar to Helena's (although it didn't kill her), Jay disappears, and it is believed that he may have tried to kill his aunt. This time Strang is called in from Edinburgh. Drummond tries to take control, but is not allowed to work with the police. Then, there is another suspicious death. We soon realize that there is a group of bad police and Oriole and Jay are both in danger of their life. Will the good guys find Jay before the bad guys get to him? And will Strang live to marry his new girlfriend?
This is a very exciting book and I can't wait to read all the previous books in the series. I thank Net Galley and Allyson&Busby for the ARC so I could read the book before publication.
There are students and faculty from a nearby college as well as volunteer working on the valuable trees in the woods. When a student working finds Helena dead from a bird shelf in a tree landing on her head, Oriole calls the police. Local policeman, Drummond investigates, and determines that Helena's death was an accident. However, Jay thinks that his father or aunt had killed her because they wanted to make money from the trees, and he becomes difficult to control. Oriole wants to keep the forest as her grandmother had wanted, but Perry wants to get some income from it.
We soon find that Perry has joined with two friends, the policeman Drummond and the nearby hotel owner Steve, to sell the hotel and start a new luxury hotel at the Drumdalloch site. When Oriole has an accident similar to Helena's (although it didn't kill her), Jay disappears, and it is believed that he may have tried to kill his aunt. This time Strang is called in from Edinburgh. Drummond tries to take control, but is not allowed to work with the police. Then, there is another suspicious death. We soon realize that there is a group of bad police and Oriole and Jay are both in danger of their life. Will the good guys find Jay before the bad guys get to him? And will Strang live to marry his new girlfriend?
This is a very exciting book and I can't wait to read all the previous books in the series. I thank Net Galley and Allyson&Busby for the ARC so I could read the book before publication.
October 1, 2024
Deadfall is the sixth installment in the police procedural series featuring DCI Kelsey Strang and the members of the All Scotland Regional Police Force. This force is called in to supplement local resources in smaller, more remote areas of Scotland no longer manned for serious crime investigations. I have enjoyed all the books in the series. These are well written police procedurals with a strong sense of place and wonderful descriptions of various areas in the north of Scotland. Deadfall takes place at Drumdalloch Woods in the Black Isle near Inverness and the description of the woods gave them an almost oversized presence. There were a fair number of characters in the book and I struggled a bit for the first 25 percent until DCI Strang arrives to work the case and other characters from the previous books in the series show up. From then on it was a quick read and I hope there will be another DCI Stang book in the future.
June 17, 2025
not as good as the earlier ones
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2025
A straight forward and easy read with an engaging and enjoyable story line. Where the book fell short in my opinion is that it could have been a bit heavier and grittier and bloodier. The book has a good a range of characters and what was nice was that the damaged commanding officer did not dominate most of the story. I also liked the setting but felt it was perhaps under utilised as if the author chose it as a back drop without exploring the area over much. All in all I enjoyed the read but it could have been better.
December 8, 2025
Brilliant Police Procedural
Detective Chief Inspector Kelso Strang and Detective Sergeant Livvy Murray join together again to unravel the mystery behind the murder of a thoroughly nasty man. With the first third of the book setting up the story, with all its despicable characters, part of the mystery was wondering who would be the victim. From the time the murder happens until the nail-biting conclusion you will be left on the edge of your seat. I thoroughly recommend this book (and the first five books in the series, if you haven’t already read them).
Detective Chief Inspector Kelso Strang and Detective Sergeant Livvy Murray join together again to unravel the mystery behind the murder of a thoroughly nasty man. With the first third of the book setting up the story, with all its despicable characters, part of the mystery was wondering who would be the victim. From the time the murder happens until the nail-biting conclusion you will be left on the edge of your seat. I thoroughly recommend this book (and the first five books in the series, if you haven’t already read them).
November 26, 2025
Unputdownable.
I have enjoyed the Kelso Strang Mysteries, all of them but I am sad that there seem to be no more of them. I hope another one comes eventually. The DS Livvie Murray was left kind of unfinished and the SRCS division, does it goon? Anyway,great books.
I have enjoyed the Kelso Strang Mysteries, all of them but I am sad that there seem to be no more of them. I hope another one comes eventually. The DS Livvie Murray was left kind of unfinished and the SRCS division, does it goon? Anyway,great books.
January 17, 2026
A murder mystery set in the Scottish Highlands.
An estate in turmoil,a body found,scientific research at stake and a family at odds with one another. These are all the ingredients for a really good story. I enjoyed this book. First time I have read this author.
An estate in turmoil,a body found,scientific research at stake and a family at odds with one another. These are all the ingredients for a really good story. I enjoyed this book. First time I have read this author.
February 3, 2026
Interesting story
An interesting story with some twists and turns. Ending was a bit abrupt. Characters being developed. Kelso character interesting hopefully will be more fully developed as a bit one dimensional.
An interesting story with some twists and turns. Ending was a bit abrupt. Characters being developed. Kelso character interesting hopefully will be more fully developed as a bit one dimensional.
February 15, 2026
I enjoyed the six books in this series. the plots were intriguing and complex. The main characters were appealing and well developed in during the solution of the murders. Enjoyed the locations and the local characters.
March 15, 2026
An unspoiled woodland is threatened by a greedy family member Peregrine (Perry), an ambitious academic, and a bent cop.
Oriole, James/Jay
I would like this better except Cat is wrong for Strang. Livvy would be a better match and I don't think I'll read the next one if he winds up with Cat.
Oriole, James/Jay
I would like this better except Cat is wrong for Strang. Livvy would be a better match and I don't think I'll read the next one if he winds up with Cat.
December 2, 2025
Brilliant read
A slow start I thought but it certainly gathered pace. Great storyline that totally absorbed me. A delightful series to read.
A slow start I thought but it certainly gathered pace. Great storyline that totally absorbed me. A delightful series to read.
January 20, 2026
A good story, but another of the long and drawn out ones. Also, why are the two younger women so childish … is it to emphasise their youth? Not necessary.
March 1, 2026
I unfortunately really didn't enjoy this book. I found it boring and tedious to read with unlikeable characters and settings that felt flat and uninteresting. The perpetrator(s) were very obvious from the get-go, which made the ending and the loose ends even more disappointing.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for providing a review copy of this book.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for providing a review copy of this book.
September 14, 2025
DCI Kelso Strang #6.
Don't remember if I've read any others. The relationships are a bit soppy.
Rating 3.0.
Don't remember if I've read any others. The relationships are a bit soppy.
Rating 3.0.
November 21, 2024
DCI Kelso Strang’s personal life has moved on since his last case. The fifth in this engaging series set in a variety of Scotland’s small towns saw him start a romance with young lawyer Cat Fleming; at the beginning of book six, the relationship has progressed and Cat is moving into the cottage on the coast which Kelso calls home when he isn’t away on a case. He is head of Police Scotland’s Rural Crime Squad, which takes over major investigations when the local force lacks the resources and manpower to do it themselves.
They are both hoping for some down time from work, to let their relationship settle into its new shape; but crime pays no heed to other people’s lives, and Cat’s boxes aren’t even unpacked before duty calls Kelso away. He has to leave Cat to her unpacking when the co-owner of a large estate is found dead, and the post mortem reveals that it wasn’t the accident it first appeared.
The dead man is Perry Forsyth, recently returned to his childhood home from the bright lights of Edinburgh, where his lucrative career in property has come to an abrupt end. It soon becomes plain that Perry was not a popular man, and his death works to the advantage of a number of people who have designs on the ancient forest which forms most of the family estate. His sister Oriole has continued to live there, and sees herself as the guardian of the trees and wildlife. A local consortium of dubious businessmen want to buy the land cheaply to build a luxury hotel. A small-time academic sees potential for a study centre which would enhance his failing career. And then there’s Jay, Perry’s wayward teenage son, who adds a layer of complication by going missing.
It’s down to Kelso to dig down into the layers of deceit and self-interest in order to identify the murderer and find the missing boy. His sidekick DS Livvy Murray is forced to make the arduous two-hour journey to and from Edinburgh every day because the budget won’t stretch to accommodation for her. They very soon becomes suspicious of Keith Drummond, one of the local inspectors, but fortunately finds an ally in DI Hamish Campbell. And to cap it all, the new chief superintendent is on a witch hunt, determined to root out corruption.
Kelso finds a way through the tangled web to the truth, but not before other lives, including his own, are put in danger. Meanwhile back at HQ in Edinburgh, his boss DCS Jane Borthwick is fighting a battle for the future of the Rural Crime Squad. Cat is discovering first-hand how it feels to be the much younger partner of a senior police officer: a complex mixture of pride in his achievements, resentment and some outmoded attitudes in the force, and gut-wrenching fear for his safety.
Kelso Strang is rapidly becoming one of my favourite police procedural protagonists: he’s efficient and perceptive, and also very human, with emotions and frailties which he isn’t afraid to show. In each book Aline Templeton places him at the head of a well-rounded and true to life set of characters, some recurring, most passing through. The series is going from strength to strength; long may Kelso continue!
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Reviewer: Lynne Patrick
For Lizzie Sirett (Mystery People Group)
They are both hoping for some down time from work, to let their relationship settle into its new shape; but crime pays no heed to other people’s lives, and Cat’s boxes aren’t even unpacked before duty calls Kelso away. He has to leave Cat to her unpacking when the co-owner of a large estate is found dead, and the post mortem reveals that it wasn’t the accident it first appeared.
The dead man is Perry Forsyth, recently returned to his childhood home from the bright lights of Edinburgh, where his lucrative career in property has come to an abrupt end. It soon becomes plain that Perry was not a popular man, and his death works to the advantage of a number of people who have designs on the ancient forest which forms most of the family estate. His sister Oriole has continued to live there, and sees herself as the guardian of the trees and wildlife. A local consortium of dubious businessmen want to buy the land cheaply to build a luxury hotel. A small-time academic sees potential for a study centre which would enhance his failing career. And then there’s Jay, Perry’s wayward teenage son, who adds a layer of complication by going missing.
It’s down to Kelso to dig down into the layers of deceit and self-interest in order to identify the murderer and find the missing boy. His sidekick DS Livvy Murray is forced to make the arduous two-hour journey to and from Edinburgh every day because the budget won’t stretch to accommodation for her. They very soon becomes suspicious of Keith Drummond, one of the local inspectors, but fortunately finds an ally in DI Hamish Campbell. And to cap it all, the new chief superintendent is on a witch hunt, determined to root out corruption.
Kelso finds a way through the tangled web to the truth, but not before other lives, including his own, are put in danger. Meanwhile back at HQ in Edinburgh, his boss DCS Jane Borthwick is fighting a battle for the future of the Rural Crime Squad. Cat is discovering first-hand how it feels to be the much younger partner of a senior police officer: a complex mixture of pride in his achievements, resentment and some outmoded attitudes in the force, and gut-wrenching fear for his safety.
Kelso Strang is rapidly becoming one of my favourite police procedural protagonists: he’s efficient and perceptive, and also very human, with emotions and frailties which he isn’t afraid to show. In each book Aline Templeton places him at the head of a well-rounded and true to life set of characters, some recurring, most passing through. The series is going from strength to strength; long may Kelso continue!
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Reviewer: Lynne Patrick
For Lizzie Sirett (Mystery People Group)
August 28, 2025
Book #6 in series but works great as stand-alone, if like me, this is your first dip into the world of DI Kelso Strang.
A dark murder/mystery, with plenty of unlikable suspects. Greed, jealousy and even police corruption, all played their part in keeping me on the edge of my seat.
DI Kelso Strang makes an excellent lead investigator, although, as with all good fictional detectives, his personal life is aways under scrutiny, although maybe a little unwarranted in this instance.
The part real, part fictional location, almost became an additional character in itself, as it was completely immersive and engulfing.
I did feel that the ending was maybe a little rushed and vague, compared to the slow-burning and very descriptive build-up, however this didn't spoil my overall enjoyment.
Definitely a new author for my list!
A dark murder/mystery, with plenty of unlikable suspects. Greed, jealousy and even police corruption, all played their part in keeping me on the edge of my seat.
DI Kelso Strang makes an excellent lead investigator, although, as with all good fictional detectives, his personal life is aways under scrutiny, although maybe a little unwarranted in this instance.
The part real, part fictional location, almost became an additional character in itself, as it was completely immersive and engulfing.
I did feel that the ending was maybe a little rushed and vague, compared to the slow-burning and very descriptive build-up, however this didn't spoil my overall enjoyment.
Definitely a new author for my list!
October 3, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
Aline Templeton’s Deadfall is a masterful addition to the Scottish crime thriller genre, weaving a tale that is as atmospheric as it is gripping. Set in the shadowy depths of Drumdalloch Woods on the Black Isle, this novel plunges readers into a world where nature’s beauty is juxtaposed with human greed and malice.
The story begins with the mysterious death of Perry Forsyth, a character whose unsavory reputation precedes him. The woods, a character in their own right, are depicted with such vivid detail that they almost breathe, adding an eerie backdrop to the unfolding drama. Templeton’s portrayal of the Scottish Highlands is both haunting and enchanting, drawing readers into a landscape that is as much a part of the mystery as the characters themselves.
DCI Kelso Strang, the protagonist, is a compelling figure whose personal and professional lives are intricately entwined. His investigation into Perry’s death reveals layers of deceit, ambition, and long-held grudges among the inhabitants of Drumdalloch. Strang’s relationship with his new girlfriend, Cat Fleming, adds a personal dimension to the narrative, making his character relatable.
Deadfall explores themes of justice, both natural and societal, as Strang navigates the murky waters of local politics and personal vendettas. The novel delves into the complexities of family dynamics, particularly the strained relationships within the Forsyth family, and the impact of past traumas on present actions.
Templeton’s writing is lyrical and precise, capturing the essence of the Scottish landscape while maintaining a tight, suspenseful plot. Her ability to create multi-dimensional characters who are flawed yet sympathetic is one of the novel’s strengths. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, adding depth to the characters and advancing the plot seamlessly.
Deadfall is a standout in the crime thriller genre, offering a richly textured narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Templeton’s skillful storytelling and deep understanding of human nature make this a must-read for fans of crime fiction. Whether you’re a long-time follower of the Kelso Strang series or a newcomer, Deadfall promises a thrilling thought-provoking read.
Aline Templeton’s Deadfall is a masterful addition to the Scottish crime thriller genre, weaving a tale that is as atmospheric as it is gripping. Set in the shadowy depths of Drumdalloch Woods on the Black Isle, this novel plunges readers into a world where nature’s beauty is juxtaposed with human greed and malice.
The story begins with the mysterious death of Perry Forsyth, a character whose unsavory reputation precedes him. The woods, a character in their own right, are depicted with such vivid detail that they almost breathe, adding an eerie backdrop to the unfolding drama. Templeton’s portrayal of the Scottish Highlands is both haunting and enchanting, drawing readers into a landscape that is as much a part of the mystery as the characters themselves.
DCI Kelso Strang, the protagonist, is a compelling figure whose personal and professional lives are intricately entwined. His investigation into Perry’s death reveals layers of deceit, ambition, and long-held grudges among the inhabitants of Drumdalloch. Strang’s relationship with his new girlfriend, Cat Fleming, adds a personal dimension to the narrative, making his character relatable.
Deadfall explores themes of justice, both natural and societal, as Strang navigates the murky waters of local politics and personal vendettas. The novel delves into the complexities of family dynamics, particularly the strained relationships within the Forsyth family, and the impact of past traumas on present actions.
Templeton’s writing is lyrical and precise, capturing the essence of the Scottish landscape while maintaining a tight, suspenseful plot. Her ability to create multi-dimensional characters who are flawed yet sympathetic is one of the novel’s strengths. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, adding depth to the characters and advancing the plot seamlessly.
Deadfall is a standout in the crime thriller genre, offering a richly textured narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Templeton’s skillful storytelling and deep understanding of human nature make this a must-read for fans of crime fiction. Whether you’re a long-time follower of the Kelso Strang series or a newcomer, Deadfall promises a thrilling thought-provoking read.
September 18, 2025
Ok book. Too much same same in the middle. Confused by the end on who actually killed him.
December 3, 2024
Drumdalloch Woods on the Black Isle is a creepy place. It is also a site of scientific interest with many rare trees. The owner has always wanted the woods protected but after his death that no longer seems to be as assured as it might be. Left to his son & daughter, the arguments start almost right away. Oriole want the woods to stay as they are. Perry is only interested in the profit that might be made. He, along with his disturbed son, Jay take up residence. Oriole, used to being the only full time resident feels pressure from various places, especially the intimidating local police detective. Then Perry is murdered. Jay disappears & Oriole doesn't know where to turn. Much to the disgust of the local police DI Kelso Strang is put in charge of the case.
Although this is the sixth in a series & I had only read book 4, I found it quite easy to read as a stand alone. I enjoyed the setting & the characters were memorable- mostly for how awful they were! However I really like Kelso Strang so I'll try not to miss out on the next one in the series. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
Although this is the sixth in a series & I had only read book 4, I found it quite easy to read as a stand alone. I enjoyed the setting & the characters were memorable- mostly for how awful they were! However I really like Kelso Strang so I'll try not to miss out on the next one in the series. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
February 8, 2025
Kelso Strang has been one of my favourite literary detectives since Aline Templeton introduced him in Human Face. I've loved the first 5 books in the series.
However, Deadfall, book number 6, just didn't do it for me. The main subject matter, the protection or otherwise of rare trees in Drumdalloch Woods on an estate in the Black Isle, was boring and repetitive.
The plot took an extraordinary amount of time to get going. The prologue set 3 years earlier was full of promise, but the actual storyline itself fell far short.
Corporate shenanigans, police corruption, child neglect, and a zealous preservationist in the form of Lars the Norwegian should have made for a cracking story. Unfortunately, this just wasn't the case.
I found the dialogue to be clunky and unrealistic, not helped by the fact that Kelso and his trusty sidekick DS Murray seem to do nothing else but jump in their cars and drive back and forth between Edinburgh and Inverness. Not a five minute journey by any stretch.
The plot stuttered to a very unsatisfactory ending with loose ends still dangling.
Here's hoping book 7 picks up the pace again.
However, Deadfall, book number 6, just didn't do it for me. The main subject matter, the protection or otherwise of rare trees in Drumdalloch Woods on an estate in the Black Isle, was boring and repetitive.
The plot took an extraordinary amount of time to get going. The prologue set 3 years earlier was full of promise, but the actual storyline itself fell far short.
Corporate shenanigans, police corruption, child neglect, and a zealous preservationist in the form of Lars the Norwegian should have made for a cracking story. Unfortunately, this just wasn't the case.
I found the dialogue to be clunky and unrealistic, not helped by the fact that Kelso and his trusty sidekick DS Murray seem to do nothing else but jump in their cars and drive back and forth between Edinburgh and Inverness. Not a five minute journey by any stretch.
The plot stuttered to a very unsatisfactory ending with loose ends still dangling.
Here's hoping book 7 picks up the pace again.
November 12, 2024
This is the first book that I have read in the Kelso Strang series and it ticked lots of boxes for me when I read about it.
Crime thriller
Set in Scotland
Old run down estate with wonderful old trees.
I like exploring old National Trust estates so I felt immediately at ease as the author detailed Drumdalloch Estate in the Scottish Highlands, with its spooky old woods. The book felt quite slow initially as the characters of those in the old house are explored but gave good background to likely suspects when a dead body finally appears. Ongoing conflict in the family over whether the estate with its unique old specimen trees should be left almost untouched and available for scientific research or it should be revitalised and brought into the modern world. So there are plenty of suspects.
I liked Di Kelso Strang and the book was an enjoyable easy read. Thoroughly enjoyed it and will look out for others in the series
Crime thriller
Set in Scotland
Old run down estate with wonderful old trees.
I like exploring old National Trust estates so I felt immediately at ease as the author detailed Drumdalloch Estate in the Scottish Highlands, with its spooky old woods. The book felt quite slow initially as the characters of those in the old house are explored but gave good background to likely suspects when a dead body finally appears. Ongoing conflict in the family over whether the estate with its unique old specimen trees should be left almost untouched and available for scientific research or it should be revitalised and brought into the modern world. So there are plenty of suspects.
I liked Di Kelso Strang and the book was an enjoyable easy read. Thoroughly enjoyed it and will look out for others in the series
November 15, 2024
A Scottish police procedural, Deadfall (2024) by Aline Templeton is the sixth book of the Detective Inspector Kelso Strang series. It begins in 2020 in the Drumdalloch Woods before jumping to 2023 and the discovery of an unliked local man found murdered. The narrative is too slow in establishing the back story before DI Strang’s investigation finally gets underway. The characters all appear to be emotionally flappable and hence unlikable, giving the tale a humdrum feel. The focus on the woods was intended to create a dark atmospheric vibe, but their role seemed somewhat absurd and yet another distracting element of the story. Unfortunately, this crime mystery drama was somewhat ordinary and disappointing, so only rates two and a half stars. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without any inducement. With thanks to Allison & Busby publishers and the author, for an uncorrected advanced review copy for review purposes.
December 14, 2024
Mixed feelings about this book. I was almost half way through before very much happened, though there had been a death under suspicious circumstances in the family many years before. In the meanwhile, we get to know the family owning Drumdalloch quite well, sister & brother and an obnoxious teenager. Locals seem to have a secret plan for the old house , university researchers are making demands about the woods and a ? groundskeeper is living within the grounds. The investigation into the murder is also not particularly clear or easy to follow with the involved detectives driving a long way and following hunches. The descriptions and characterizations were good, the place felt creepy. Unfortunately I was not really satisfied with the ending.
So not great, I wanted to see what happened but was fairly confused by what happened. Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC . Will try something else by this author, but I was not enarmoured by this one.
So not great, I wanted to see what happened but was fairly confused by what happened. Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC . Will try something else by this author, but I was not enarmoured by this one.
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