A Dead Man on Staffin Beach

Misty Isle #5

by J.M. Dalgliesh

That which does not kill you... only makes them try harder...When the body of a celebrity author, recently returned to the Isle of Skye to live out his remaining days, is found on Staffin Beach, D.I. Duncan McAdam is left with a mystery to solve.

The death appears self-inflicted, but why would a man go to all the time and trouble of relocating back to the island only to end his life in this manner? The case generates a great deal of interest in the media, putting a spotlight on Duncan and his team. Little does Duncan know how many people have been keeping secrets on the island. Secrets that some thought - and many hoped - would never come to light.

As Duncan uncovers a darker side to his beloved Misty Isle, he begins to question just who he can trust in this investigation and what is it that no one dares to speak of?

Genres: Mystery, Crime, Scotland, Thriller, Fiction, Procedural, Audiobook

326 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 19, 2025

About the author

Jason Dalgliesh was born on the south coast of England and grew up in Hampshire, UK. He has worked in the power transmission industry, the retail sector, call centres and as a night-owl in a bakery. His greatest challenge of all is ongoing, as a stay at home parent.

He is presently writing the Dark Yorkshire crime-series, featuring DI Nathaniel Caslin.

The novels are set in Yorkshire, England. The medieval City of York is Caslin's home town and the plot lines take in some of the UK's most rugged and beautiful landscapes, from the windswept North Sea coastline and across the stunning North York Moors.

Penned in the style of the Crime Noir genre, Caslin is a deep character, as flawed as he is brilliant, battling his own demons as much as those he is pitted against. Readers who enjoy gritty, atmospheric thrillers will find the series a must read.

Having spent time abroad, Jason has lived and worked in various parts of England as well as the Scottish Highlands. He currently resides in the East Riding, with his wife and two young children.

You can reach him via his website at www.jmdalgliesh.com

You can also follow him on social media;
facebook.com/jmdalglieshauthor
twitter.com/darkyorkshire

Reviews

[Lavins · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 stars

A good book, but it felt unfinished. Not because the perpetrators were not brought to justice, but because it was unclear of what exactly happened, to whom and who were all the parties involved in covering it all up.
Also there was no explanation of how the main crime was committed, how and when the body was placed there. Or why Duncan's mom had such a violent reaction to this one person's presence. Lots of loose ends.

Otherwise, I can't stand Grace. She is either dump or extremely self centred or both. Your man is a detective inspector, investigating crimes, acting all insulted that he is not answering the phone and asking where he was seems to me pretty stupid. Also, her sitting in the car for 5 min and throwing a fit cause Duncan was speaking with someone in a library. You're on freaking Sky...where could you be in a rush to go??? considering you also finished work and you go home. Chill. Yeah, really not a fan!

And then Duncan. I am yet to see a DI that decides to turn off his phone just cause he feels like it. Say what now??

[Nina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another good one! Currently, I am waiting for the newest book of the series, they are definitely good! 5 stars.

[John Swift · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another enjoyable read. This book included many twists and turns for DI McAdam, culminating in an interesting ending!! Nice to see that the author included a map of the geographical area of the storyline. I made a request for this a couple of reviews ago, I’m assuming other readers have also asked?

[Abigail Walker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book sees DI Duncan McAdam called in when the body of a famous author is found on Staffin Beach. It looks as though the cause of death is suicide, but when the team delve deeper they realise there is much more to this death than meets the eye. Duncan and the others are soon pulled into a case much more complicated than it appears, and one that makes Duncan have to think about his father and his past. Will Duncan get the result he needs, or will the connection of his father complicate things even further for him?

This was an interesting novel and (like the last book) I was pleased when many elements of it surprised me. For example, I hadn’t guessed the killer, and (SPOILER) I was shocked when the deceased’s housekeeper ended up being related to the killer and was working against the victim the whole time. The author is great at building these moments of shock and it makes his plots a joy to read.

Although I love Duncan’s budding romance with Grace, I find it odd how book one built up his ex, Becky, and the fact they have a child together, yet over the last two books she has barely been mentioned. The book ended with the suggestion Duncan wants his son to know who he is, so perhaps book six will see them in a much more prominent role again.

One thing that brought my rating down was an odd continuity error. In ‘The Talisker Dead’ the reporter, Katie, asks Duncan about his relationship with Grace and states they were friends from school and Grace even tries to call Katie when Duncan wants to check in on her, yet in this book they didn’t know each other as Duncan introduces them at the care home. This is an odd continuity error and confused me while I was reading.

Overall, I’m loving this series and can’t wait for the next book to come out!

[Stephen Gray · Rating 3 out of 5]

Such a shame that a reasonably good book with a good plot and good characters is ruined with such a poor ending, actually no ending at all really.
It just stops - more loose ends than a bowl of spaghetti.
I'm not listing them all here but beware there are so many unanswered questions that we are just left in mid air. We are told that the next book - #6 Death at Neist Point, is due out next November. So we have to wait 7 months to get some answers. By then I will probably have forgotten the questions.

[Brian The Red · Rating 3 out of 5]

Readable but frustrating and disappointing fifth entry into the series set on Isle of Skye. In the Nordic crime tradition, the story delves into possible crimes from more than a generation ago, and many persons of interest that insist the investigators should let sleeping dogs lie. Dalgliesh could use an editor that would encourage him to make better choices ever time a cliched situation presented itself, because so much of this sounds familiar.

[Karen Oakley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I sort of enjoyed this but I'm afraid it's not one of his best. The search into the background of the author kept me interested and I liked DI Duncan McAdam opening up about his past as we learn about his father. The story though was a bit slow and plodding and not a lot happened until the end and even that didn't blow me away. Only three stars for me I'm afraid.

[Iina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Felt like a part 1, rushed too.

[Jen · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

i didn’t enjoy this one as much as the previous books in the series, what i did like was finding out about duncan’s family history

[Hermien · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great series.

[Deb · Rating 4 out of 5]

DI Duncan McAdam is investigating the death of a famous local thriller writer whose lifeless body was found on a beach. At first, the death presents as a suicide, but the ME discovers evidence of bound hands and a blood screen shows heavy amounts of an anesthetic drug in the man's system. When the investigation leads back to a long closed Catholic boy's school, Duncan finds a link to the death of his own abusive father fifteen years before. The island of Skye is again an important setting for the investigation. Storms roll in off the Atlantic, vistas open up across the straits to the Scottish coast and isolated crofts add to the brooding nature of the story. Duncan's mother is slipping deeper into dementia with every passing day, but he and his older sister are growing closer at last and his relationship with Grce is his solace in a difficult time.

[Lee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Frustrating when justice isn't served

But it was a good story that was fairly easy to figure out. It supposedly continues in book 6 - we will see.

[John Brooker / Kim Brooker · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the previous books in this series very much, but this was rather turgid with a predictable plot. I look forward to the next one returning to the 5 star standard of the previous ones.

[Gowtham Mothukuri · Rating 4 out of 5]

"A Dead Man on Staffin Beach" is a gripping crime thriller set against the hauntingly beautiful backdrop of Scotland’s Isle of Skye. The novel follows journalist Rachael Blakely as she is drawn into a web of secrets after discovering a body on the shore of Staffin Beach. What starts as a seemingly isolated incident soon unravels into a complex mystery filled with deception, hidden pasts, and unexpected twists.

One of the novel’s strongest aspects is its atmospheric setting. The descriptions of Skye’s rugged landscapes and moody weather add an immersive layer to the story, making the reader feel as if they are right there, experiencing the eerie quiet of the island. The author does a fantastic job of balancing the beauty of the location with the underlying tension of the mystery.

Rachael is a compelling protagonist—driven, intelligent, and flawed in a way that makes her feel real. Her background as a journalist gives her a sharp investigative edge, and her personal struggles add depth to her character. The supporting cast is equally well-crafted, with each character bringing something unique to the story, whether it’s suspicion, intrigue, or a connection to the past.

The plot moves at a steady pace, keeping the suspense alive without feeling rushed. Clues are woven into the narrative with precision, allowing the reader to piece things together while still being surprised by the final revelations. The dialogue is natural and engaging, and the writing style is smooth and descriptive without becoming overwhelming.

Overall, "A Dead Man on Staffin Beach" is a well-executed crime thriller that combines strong storytelling with a vivid setting. It’s a perfect read for those who enjoy atmospheric mysteries with complex characters and a plot that keeps them guessing until the very end.

[Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

DI Duncan McAdams is called in when the body of a well known author is found on Staffin Beach. The author had returned after many years living away, so Duncan is unsure who could possibly have wanted to kill the man. But as Duncan and his team dig deeper they begin to find a number of secrets – some of which are of such long-standing many lives remain deeply entrenched in their shadows.

I have been enjoying this Scottish noir mystery series. I thought this book was not just a good addition – with a solid plot and a number of well-linked characters I am coming to be attached to – but I was pleased with the forward momentum with some of Duncan’s personal and family life as well. As I’ve found with a few of the other books in this series the ending is a little vague – while the perpetrators are known and the mystery is solved, I’ve found with these books sometimes there remains a few threads dangling that aren’t necessarily neatly tied up. Readers should be mindful of that with this series.

The main characters – both the police team and Duncan’s sister, mother and girlfriend – all have a good amount of time spent on them in this book. I enjoyed this balance, showing that Duncan has a number of things on the go and not just his work. While I do feel readers can easily pick this book up by itself and thoroughly enjoy it, plus the links and relationships are all very clearly explained, I admit my attachment to Ros – Duncan’s sister – in particular stemmed more from a deeper understanding having read the previous books. I feel this book was richer to me, personally, for having read the others – but the mystery and most of the book can absolutely be enjoyed by itself.

With a solid mystery, a good number of characters and some fairly dark secrets unearthed I found this to be a good book and a gripping read.

[barbara a. woodruff · Rating 5 out of 5]

That which does not kill you... only makes them try harder...When the body of a celebrity author, recently returned to the Isle of Skye to live out his remaining days, is found on Staffin Beach, D.I. Duncan McAdam is left with a mystery to solve.

The death appears self-inflicted, but why would a man go to all the time and trouble of relocating back to the island only to end his life in this manner? The case generates a great deal of interest in the media, putting a spotlight on Duncan and his team. Little does Duncan know how many people have been keeping secrets on the island. Secrets that some thought - and many hoped - would never come to light.

As Duncan uncovers a darker side to his beloved Misty Isle, he begins to question just who he can trust in this investigation and what is it that no one dares to speak of?

Every book by JM Dalgliesh is spell binding. I am driven to read "just one more chapter" and then just one more chapter regardless of how late the time whether midnight or 2:00 AM, I can't stop until I know how it ends. Have read all of the Misty Isle books. Excellent writing. Highly recommend
all of J.M. Dalgliesh books.

[Reader]

That which does not kill you... only makes them try harder...When the body of a celebrity author, recently returned to the Isle of Skye seemingly to live out his remaining days, is found on Staffin Beach, D.I. Duncan McAdam is left with a mystery to solve.The circumstances of his last days along with his death prove to be a mystery. How did this man meet his end on the sands of An Corran Beach at dawn? The case generates a great deal of interest in the media, putting a spotlight on Duncan and his team. Little does Duncan know how many people have been keeping secrets on the island. Secrets that some thought - and many hoped - would never come into the light.As Duncan uncovers a darker side to his beloved Misty Isle, he finds the investigation coming closer to home. The life on Skye he escaped from all those years ago may not have been quite what he thought it was. As the investigation develops, Duncan begins to question not only who he can trust but also to what extent his own experiences have been manipulated by the deeds of the past.What is it that happened on The Rock all those years ago that no one dares to speak of?

[Giana Bender · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 I enjoyed this one, but I did feel like it was a bit more chaotic than some of the others in the series. There were so many parts to the puzzle and I think I just wanted more details to tie it all together in the end. Especially since this has origins going back 40+ years, I was hoping for more specific background instead of "the catholic boys school was bad." This one does set up the next book well, and I assume we will see what happens with Katie's article and how the Huxley family will retaliate.

It is good to see Duncan's growth as a character, and I think it comes through best when interacting with his mom and sister. He is less reactive (overall) and seems more confident in himself. However, I am not loving Duncan's love life, Grace seems nice but I am just waiting for him to end things with her at this point. We also got no mention of Becky and Callum until the very end, so I am hoping for more progress on that front in the next one.

[June · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another captivating and well written gripping storyline and plot, in this book 5 of The Misty Isle books.
I love the strong, interesting characters and the way we find out more about DI Duncan McAdam's past in this book.
It's one of those books that keeps you guessing as you read, and once started, you just have to read on.
There are surprising revelations and plenty of twists along the way, and I thought the ending was very fitting.
I enjoy good descriptive, and the author is wonderful at making you see in your minds eye and bring to life the settings, story, and characters.
I have no hesitation at recommended this book.
I always pre-order the authors books, so I don't miss any. I would like to thank the author for the advanced copy of this book.
This is my honest and unbiased review.

[Ian Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now have read all Norfolk, York and Misty Isles. Really enjoyed the very real DI Duncan. Interesting ending all of a sudden. Can't wait until 30 Nov for new book. Maybe catch up with his son and what happens if the paper reporter takes up the challenge.
Interesting to read the very full comments of others which i won't add to but being an Aussie and spending just 3 days visiting Skye in a car and wanting to revisit real places on Skye visually, it was so good to be able to google maps and see all the places Jason takes us to. Photos, videos, following the roads as you can drive them with all the scenery of the countryside as well so good to visually see the places Jason describes in the books. I wonder if he worked from a croft or one on the b&bs we stayed in.

[Brian · Rating 5 out of 5]

In A Dead Man on Staffin Beach by J.M. Dalgliesh, Detective Inspector Duncan McAdam is called to investigate the mysterious death of a famous celebrity author whose body is discovered on the shores of the Isle of Skye. Although the scene initially suggests suicide, deeper investigation reveals foul play, plunging McAdam into a complex case that unearths long-buried secrets within the isolated island community. As the media spotlight intensifies, the investigation forces McAdam to confront his own troubled past and the dark history of a local boys' school, all while navigating the brooding, storm-swept landscapes of his beloved "Misty Isle".
Keep in mind, I'm an assistant powered by AI and may make mistakes. Always verify important details.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an exciting, intelligent and fast-paced murder mystery that involves the present and the past. The characters were believable and well-developed and the police team continues to bond and evolve. There is some humor. I listened on Audible and of course Angus King is the best! Once again the book is set on the Isle of Skye and the setting, weather and local culture add even more to the story. Duncan is a great DI with flaws and his own demons, but he is honest and dedicated too. As in the earlier installments, the plot involves Duncan's family and past but it is still believable. I will definitely grab the next book.

[Kathy Berry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed all 5 of the Misty Isle books I have read. Each one seems to be better than the one before. The stories are compelling, the characters multi-layered and Duncan's ongoing family dramas give depth and pathos to the books, as we root for his efforts to deal with past traumas. In any mystery I read, I like to try to solve the puzzles along with the detectives. Some writers are prone to insert too many red herrings into the mix, making that impossible. J.M. Dalgliesh reveals just enough of the pertinent, timely and unfolding information to give the reader a fighting chance at successful sleuthing! Very satisfying!

[John H · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the past is not the past

This quite an interesting and shocking story. It kept me interested throughout . As DI Duncan McAdam investigates the circumstances of how a world famous author Bruce Dunmore was found dead on Staffing Beach. Dunmore has recently returned to the island of his home. In a short period he is found dead. As McAdam unravels the circumstance of Dunmore death the secrets of unspeakable past begin to reveal themselves . As secrets are unraveled Duncan finds himself unexpectedly personally part that past. The investigation and what it reveals kept me interested throughout.

[Ed Napiorkowski · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid 4 stars from me. If you want a summary of the story, read the dust cover.

Entertaining and somewhat thought provoking. A big question answered. How far are you really prepared to go in order to reveal or cover up the truth when very personal implications are involved?

Great characters, well-paced, solid storyline, believable events and interactions.

A good continuation of the series and the drawing in of historical events with personal implications for the characters involved was well structured, thought provoking and "entertaining" doesn't really seem like the most appropriate word but it all combined into a really good read. Thank you, J.M. Dalgliesh.

[Jeannette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another very good read from the author. Many folks said that there was really no solution but I didn't find that to be the case. We know who killed him and why. There were a few things left dangling, but I find that true in most crime novels. It just makes you think for yourself. Murder, misdirection, corruption in the police department and abuse in a boys' home years ago. What more can you ask for except a DI that figures it all out in the end? Lots of twists and turns to keep you on your toes. A very quick read. Looking forward to the next Misty Isle book. I was a bit surprised about the relationship between the murderer and the housekeeper.

[Roy McCarthy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one dragged a bit for me. It felt like the prolific Mr Dalgleish was going through the motions and the characters all blended into a kind of grey. The cops McAdam and Mceachern are fine though the latter is very much a prop to his partner. Very little other 'team' to speak of. A murder case which leads to historic abuse and suddenly the bodies are piling up. What the author does do well is to paint a very good picture of the misty and damp Isle of Skye. I'd round up to 4 but I can't get past how the two cops didn't think to ask Flora for access to the victim's study on their very first visit to his home - even I wouldn't have missed that.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Isle of Skye. The body of well known author Bruce Dunmore is discovered on An Corran beach. Suicide or murder. DI Duncan McAdam and his team investigate but how does the distant past connect to the case, and what might be the relationship to his family. What secrets are some islanders keeping.
An interesting and entertaining well-written modern mystery with its cast of likeable and well-drawn characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via BooksFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Dead Man On Staffin Beach - a review by Rosemary Kenny.


A Dead Man On Staffin Beach is a suitably dramatic title for JM Dalgliesh's excellent crime-thriller, that's guaranteed to grip you firmly by the imagination throughout.


Family secrets and others' skeletons from the past, are a cause of sleepless nights and frustration to DI Duncan McAdam, as murky ripples spread across the Misty Isle and beyond.


Grab a copy of A Dead Man On Staffin Beach today, to see what hidden truths are finally revealed!

[Maureen · Rating 4 out of 5]

The body of an author is found on Staffin Beach on Skye. The investigation takes many surprising turns, and DI Duncan McAdam is confronted by some disturbing information and also undue pressure is brought to bear on the investigation. Duncan and Alastair make a good pairing in this great story where the past influences the present. The scenic setting also plays a part as the story unfolds. It is a compelling story, but also disturbing. Even though the story is complete within this book, there are elements that carry through from the beginning of the series.