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Hamish Macbeth #35
Death of a Traitor
Sergeant Hamish Macbeth—Scotland's most quick witted but unambitious policeman—is back to investigate the disappearance of a local woman who is more than she seems, in this new mystery in M.C. Beaton's beloved, New York Times bestselling series.
Kate Hibbert is all too eager to lend a hand to her neighbors. Although she has been a resident of the sleepy village of Lochdubh for only a year, in that time Kate has alienated one too many of its residents with her interfering—and not entirely well-intentioned—ways. When Kate’s neighbor sees her lugging a heavy suitcase to the bus stop, he hopes that the prying woman is gone for good. But two weeks later, Kate’s cousin arrives in town with the news that Kate has gone missing.
Hamish Macbeth is called in to investigate the disappearance, and soon he is befuddled by the discovery of Kate’s body, her suitcase . . . and the sneaking suspicion that Kate was someone much more sinister than she claimed.
Kate Hibbert is all too eager to lend a hand to her neighbors. Although she has been a resident of the sleepy village of Lochdubh for only a year, in that time Kate has alienated one too many of its residents with her interfering—and not entirely well-intentioned—ways. When Kate’s neighbor sees her lugging a heavy suitcase to the bus stop, he hopes that the prying woman is gone for good. But two weeks later, Kate’s cousin arrives in town with the news that Kate has gone missing.
Hamish Macbeth is called in to investigate the disappearance, and soon he is befuddled by the discovery of Kate’s body, her suitcase . . . and the sneaking suspicion that Kate was someone much more sinister than she claimed.
243 pages, Paperback
First published February 2, 2023
312 people are currently reading
5948 people want to read
About the author
M.C. Beaton
349 books6,039 followersLike her on Facebook!
Learn more on her website!
Marion Chesney Gibbons
aka: Ann Fairfax, Jennie Tremaine, Helen Crampton, Marion Chesney, Charlotte Ward, Sarah Chester.
Marion Chesney was born on 1936 in Glasgow, Scotland, UK, and started her first job as a bookseller in charge of the fiction department in John Smith & Sons Ltd. While bookselling, by chance, she got an offer from the Scottish Daily Mail to review variety shows and quickly rose to be their theatre critic. She left Smith’s to join Scottish Field magazine as a secretary in the advertising department, without any shorthand or typing, but quickly got the job of fashion editor instead. She then moved to the Scottish Daily Express where she reported mostly on crime. This was followed by a move to Fleet Street to the Daily Express where she became chief woman reporter. After marrying Harry Scott Gibbons and having a son, Charles, Marion went to the United States where Harry had been offered the job of editor of the Oyster Bay Guardian. When that didn’t work out, they went to Virginia and Marion worked as a waitress in a greasy spoon on the Jefferson Davies in Alexandria while Harry washed the dishes. Both then got jobs on Rupert Murdoch’s new tabloid, The Star, and moved to New York.
Anxious to spend more time at home with her small son, Marion, urged by her husband, started to write historical romances in 1977. After she had written over 100 of them under her maiden name, Marion Chesney, and under the pseudonyms: Ann Fairfax, Jennie Tremaine, Helen Crampton, Charlotte Ward, and Sarah Chester, she getting fed up with 1714 to 1910, she began to write detectives stories in 1985 under the pseudonym of M. C. Beaton. On a trip from the States to Sutherland on holiday, a course at a fishing school inspired the first Constable Hamish Macbeth story. They returned to Britain and bought a croft house and croft in Sutherland where Harry reared a flock of black sheep. But Charles was at school, in London so when he finished and both tired of the long commute to the north of Scotland, they moved to the Cotswolds where Agatha Raisin was created.
Learn more on her website!
Marion Chesney Gibbons
aka: Ann Fairfax, Jennie Tremaine, Helen Crampton, Marion Chesney, Charlotte Ward, Sarah Chester.
Marion Chesney was born on 1936 in Glasgow, Scotland, UK, and started her first job as a bookseller in charge of the fiction department in John Smith & Sons Ltd. While bookselling, by chance, she got an offer from the Scottish Daily Mail to review variety shows and quickly rose to be their theatre critic. She left Smith’s to join Scottish Field magazine as a secretary in the advertising department, without any shorthand or typing, but quickly got the job of fashion editor instead. She then moved to the Scottish Daily Express where she reported mostly on crime. This was followed by a move to Fleet Street to the Daily Express where she became chief woman reporter. After marrying Harry Scott Gibbons and having a son, Charles, Marion went to the United States where Harry had been offered the job of editor of the Oyster Bay Guardian. When that didn’t work out, they went to Virginia and Marion worked as a waitress in a greasy spoon on the Jefferson Davies in Alexandria while Harry washed the dishes. Both then got jobs on Rupert Murdoch’s new tabloid, The Star, and moved to New York.
Anxious to spend more time at home with her small son, Marion, urged by her husband, started to write historical romances in 1977. After she had written over 100 of them under her maiden name, Marion Chesney, and under the pseudonyms: Ann Fairfax, Jennie Tremaine, Helen Crampton, Charlotte Ward, and Sarah Chester, she getting fed up with 1714 to 1910, she began to write detectives stories in 1985 under the pseudonym of M. C. Beaton. On a trip from the States to Sutherland on holiday, a course at a fishing school inspired the first Constable Hamish Macbeth story. They returned to Britain and bought a croft house and croft in Sutherland where Harry reared a flock of black sheep. But Charles was at school, in London so when he finished and both tired of the long commute to the north of Scotland, they moved to the Cotswolds where Agatha Raisin was created.
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February 21, 2023
Hamish and the Blackmailer
Review of the Grand Central Publishing audiobook (February 14, 2023) narrated by Graeme Malcolm*.
I am still loyal to both the Agatha Raisin and Hamish Macbeth series, even though they are now being written entirely by continuation writer R.W. Green rather than the original author M.C. Beaton (1936-2019). I have an affection for both characters and their fictional communities as I binged virtually all of them (roughly 60+ books) during the worst years of the COVID pandemic. Green has managed to right the cozy course for both series, which had turned nasty towards the end of Beaton's era.
Part of the attraction is that in Beaton's fictional world the characters hardly age at all, they are set in a timeless cozy world of either Macbeth's Scottish Highlands or Raisin's English Cotswalds. That sort of unchanging environment was a comfort during the COVID lockdown era with its uncertainty.
This most recent Hamish Macbeth mystery has the Lochdubh (pronounced Lock-doo) village policeman solving yet another murder of an outlander. This is the standard template plot of the series, but this one does come with a few twists and shows some possible evolution. Most of the series regulars make cameo appearances, rather like ticking boxes in a checklist. It does make sense that M.C. Beaton is still being credited as the main writer, as she is the one who created all of the characters in the first place and their current actions are basically recreations of the past.
The gossipy and opinionated Currie sisters have one outing only, so much of the fun from their dialogue is removed. I don't think Angela Brodie appeared at all. Angus the Seer is observed from a distance only. Inspector Jimmy Anderson is more of a constant though, and we see a glimmer that his cadging of a 'wee dram' at Macbeth's expense may be coming to an end. At least, the villainous Chief Inspector Blair doesn't attempt any further insane plots against Macbeth and Superintendent Daviot is his usual politically cautious self. Of course past loves Patricia Halburton-Smythe and Elspeth Grant appear as well. The real stars of the cameos are Macbeth's pets. the dog Lugs (Scots for "ears") and the wildcat Sonsie (Scots for "cheeky") who put up a ferocious defense when their & Macbeth's home is pillaged by villains.
So it is a standard and safe outing without too much disruption. But it left me with a feeling that much of the joy of discovery and fun has gone out of the series. It is not enough to just produce all the regulars with their characteristic tics, some sort of fresh development of character is needed in order to keep old fans interested and engaged. This is likely a constant problem for most continuation writers however, so out of curiousity I am still tempted to keep following along to see what might occur.
The next R.W. Green continuation book will be #34 in the Agatha Raisin series Dead on Target, with an expected October 12, 2023 date of publication.
Trivia and Link
* I note that the UK audiobook Death of a Traitor: A Hamish Macbeth Murder Mystery released February 2, 2023 by Hachette Audio UK is narrated by David Monteath.
Review of the Grand Central Publishing audiobook (February 14, 2023) narrated by Graeme Malcolm*.
I am still loyal to both the Agatha Raisin and Hamish Macbeth series, even though they are now being written entirely by continuation writer R.W. Green rather than the original author M.C. Beaton (1936-2019). I have an affection for both characters and their fictional communities as I binged virtually all of them (roughly 60+ books) during the worst years of the COVID pandemic. Green has managed to right the cozy course for both series, which had turned nasty towards the end of Beaton's era.
Part of the attraction is that in Beaton's fictional world the characters hardly age at all, they are set in a timeless cozy world of either Macbeth's Scottish Highlands or Raisin's English Cotswalds. That sort of unchanging environment was a comfort during the COVID lockdown era with its uncertainty.
This most recent Hamish Macbeth mystery has the Lochdubh (pronounced Lock-doo) village policeman solving yet another murder of an outlander. This is the standard template plot of the series, but this one does come with a few twists and shows some possible evolution. Most of the series regulars make cameo appearances, rather like ticking boxes in a checklist. It does make sense that M.C. Beaton is still being credited as the main writer, as she is the one who created all of the characters in the first place and their current actions are basically recreations of the past.
The gossipy and opinionated Currie sisters have one outing only, so much of the fun from their dialogue is removed. I don't think Angela Brodie appeared at all. Angus the Seer is observed from a distance only. Inspector Jimmy Anderson is more of a constant though, and we see a glimmer that his cadging of a 'wee dram' at Macbeth's expense may be coming to an end. At least, the villainous Chief Inspector Blair doesn't attempt any further insane plots against Macbeth and Superintendent Daviot is his usual politically cautious self. Of course past loves Patricia Halburton-Smythe and Elspeth Grant appear as well. The real stars of the cameos are Macbeth's pets. the dog Lugs (Scots for "ears") and the wildcat Sonsie (Scots for "cheeky") who put up a ferocious defense when their & Macbeth's home is pillaged by villains.
So it is a standard and safe outing without too much disruption. But it left me with a feeling that much of the joy of discovery and fun has gone out of the series. It is not enough to just produce all the regulars with their characteristic tics, some sort of fresh development of character is needed in order to keep old fans interested and engaged. This is likely a constant problem for most continuation writers however, so out of curiousity I am still tempted to keep following along to see what might occur.
The next R.W. Green continuation book will be #34 in the Agatha Raisin series Dead on Target, with an expected October 12, 2023 date of publication.
Trivia and Link
* I note that the UK audiobook Death of a Traitor: A Hamish Macbeth Murder Mystery released February 2, 2023 by Hachette Audio UK is narrated by David Monteath.
October 25, 2022
Kate, a woman in the village is missing, and the people he interviewed say how nice she is. But, as Hamish learns, there’s more to the story. Kate was up to no good, and there are several people who would wish her gone. I keep thinking that the series will go back to the way it was with its original author because I like the characters and the setting, but apparently that is not happening. It’s not that cozy a series anymore when animals are hurt, there are multiple murders, and the Russian mob is involved. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
March 10, 2023
The characters and setting are familiar, but on the whole, these new versions of the stories of both Hamish Macbeth and Agatha Raisin are more real and much grittier, The problem for me is that 'real' and 'gritty' are not particularly what I'm looking for in cozy mysteries.
February 26, 2023
Death of a Series.
For me, this was SO painful, (borrowing not paying for this hack fill-in.) Won't even do that in the future.
Green does NOT get Beaton's characters - he shunts Blair's full personality to Daviot, has Hamish breathless from a short walk on a flat bridge (hill runner, crack shot, handyman - remember?) Its a fight to keep reading, maybe the writer will redeem himself?
No such luck - the writer would have Hamish oblivious to police procedure and common decency - "the flies returned and he let them" (to a just reported dead body.) Any decent human would have brought something to cover a dead body, let alone our best murder detective. This is groaningly, painfully NOT M.C. Beaton's work.
'Excuse me, there's things I have to do.' Even Hamish wouldn't come up with such a lame exit line to two witnesses....and wouldn't he suggest they have some whiskey or a hot drink to settle their nerves?
It just gets worse and worse, Priscilla and Hamish are no longer even friends...Hamish is visibly annoyed at anyone else finding her attractive, actually rude...just stop. Go back to the beginning, enjoy the books M.C. Beaton wrote, and know that Hamish MacBeth's tales end there.
Even tried to approach this like the TV version of the series. That is, someone took the characters, changed them for their comfort/skill level, wrote something that plays like a shallow echo of the original thing. No Go. M.C. Beaton (RIP) is gone, and with her, the players and the series.
For me, this was SO painful, (borrowing not paying for this hack fill-in.) Won't even do that in the future.
Green does NOT get Beaton's characters - he shunts Blair's full personality to Daviot, has Hamish breathless from a short walk on a flat bridge (hill runner, crack shot, handyman - remember?) Its a fight to keep reading, maybe the writer will redeem himself?
No such luck - the writer would have Hamish oblivious to police procedure and common decency - "the flies returned and he let them" (to a just reported dead body.) Any decent human would have brought something to cover a dead body, let alone our best murder detective. This is groaningly, painfully NOT M.C. Beaton's work.
'Excuse me, there's things I have to do.' Even Hamish wouldn't come up with such a lame exit line to two witnesses....and wouldn't he suggest they have some whiskey or a hot drink to settle their nerves?
It just gets worse and worse, Priscilla and Hamish are no longer even friends...Hamish is visibly annoyed at anyone else finding her attractive, actually rude...just stop. Go back to the beginning, enjoy the books M.C. Beaton wrote, and know that Hamish MacBeth's tales end there.
Even tried to approach this like the TV version of the series. That is, someone took the characters, changed them for their comfort/skill level, wrote something that plays like a shallow echo of the original thing. No Go. M.C. Beaton (RIP) is gone, and with her, the players and the series.
February 12, 2023
I’m afraid I have to say goodbye to Hamish as well as having had to say goodbye to Agatha. These books just aren’t fun anymore. Lots of weird dialogue like Hamish speaking perfect English then lapsing back into his Scottish lilt. Hamish actually saying the word not instead of no? Very odd. The whole thing with Jimmy, I felt like Hamish would never cover that up.
A sad day for me as the Hamish books have always been comfort reads.
A sad day for me as the Hamish books have always been comfort reads.
January 19, 2023
The setting and scenery is everything in Hamish Macbeth’s latest case. A missing person soon escalates with a body found. A local policeman Hamish makes sure his local quirky people come first even though it may cost his job. Many secrets have been hidden and there are plenty of suspects when blackmail is suspected. This story swings along at a great pace and you will be very happy to be taken back to a taste of highland life.
Thank you NetGalley and (publisher, little brown book group) for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Thank you NetGalley and (publisher, little brown book group) for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
May 31, 2024
This is the latest book in the Hamish Macbeth series by M.C. Beaton. My mother-in-law and I don't always share the same taste in books, but this is one series we have both enjoyed.
We have been reading this series fairly steadily now for the last couple of years and we have really enjoyed reading about Hamish, his loves, and his shrewd detecting. We like the characters and the interesting descriptions of life in the Scottish Highlands. The stories are interesting, quick reads, although many of the side stories are repetitive.
The story was very short and entertaining, but quite violent. Needlessly so. For some reason, the last few books in the series seem to have numerous murders and I'm not sure why this is so necessary for the plot. The plot itself seemed quite convoluted and more complicated than necessary, too.
Hamish's love-life is just as muddled as ever. There is a seemingly never-ending litany of women who are potential love interests or who were love interests, but remain in his life in a variety of ways, even his dearly departed Dorothy, who he grieves for still and visits her graveside often.
The latest books in this series have really departed from the cozy mystery genre and I'm growing tired of the grittiness and violence. With a new author continuing the series, I had hoped the books would get back to the series I had fallen in love with, but perhaps it's not to be.
Overall, it was a decent bit of brain candy. I see that there will be yet another book in the series and while I'm sure I will read it when it is published, I'm growing tired of this storyline. I like Hamish et al, but I am looking forward to diving into a new series.
interesting quote:
"'Get your skates on, then, laddie,' Jimmy said, urging Hamish to make a move. 'Life's wearing on, and you're a long time dead.'" (p. )
We have been reading this series fairly steadily now for the last couple of years and we have really enjoyed reading about Hamish, his loves, and his shrewd detecting. We like the characters and the interesting descriptions of life in the Scottish Highlands. The stories are interesting, quick reads, although many of the side stories are repetitive.
The story was very short and entertaining, but quite violent. Needlessly so. For some reason, the last few books in the series seem to have numerous murders and I'm not sure why this is so necessary for the plot. The plot itself seemed quite convoluted and more complicated than necessary, too.
Hamish's love-life is just as muddled as ever. There is a seemingly never-ending litany of women who are potential love interests or who were love interests, but remain in his life in a variety of ways, even his dearly departed Dorothy, who he grieves for still and visits her graveside often.
The latest books in this series have really departed from the cozy mystery genre and I'm growing tired of the grittiness and violence. With a new author continuing the series, I had hoped the books would get back to the series I had fallen in love with, but perhaps it's not to be.
Overall, it was a decent bit of brain candy. I see that there will be yet another book in the series and while I'm sure I will read it when it is published, I'm growing tired of this storyline. I like Hamish et al, but I am looking forward to diving into a new series.
interesting quote:
"'Get your skates on, then, laddie,' Jimmy said, urging Hamish to make a move. 'Life's wearing on, and you're a long time dead.'" (p. )
February 18, 2023
This is my first time reading anything by MC Beaton, and even though Death of a Traitor is book number 35 in his Hamish Macbeth series, it was a fabulous introduction into his world. Smart plots, and a crime to solve via a master of the genre. I am wholeheartedly diving into this series. Thank you to Grand Central Publishing for introducing me to this world.
~Tanja
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~Tanja
Follow me on
Instagram✿Twitter✿Facebook✿Pinterest✿TikTok
February 16, 2023
Death of a Traitor Earns 5+/5 Hidden Evidence… Engaging, Clever Favorite!
Gregor Mackenzie saw Kate Hibbert struggling down the road with her suitcase. There’d been enough interference by this woman over the year she’d been here that he is glad to see the back of her. But, three weeks later, she can’t be found, and her cousin, Diane Spears, is frustrated that Hamish has yet to find her. There was no evidence of foul play although neighbors seemed superficial in their concern, and she’d gone off before only to be found vacationing in the south of France. But, sadly, her body is found floating in The Corloch anchored with ropes and rocks; not the outcome for which Hamish hoped. While giving the area a cursory examination before being sidelined by the investigative team soon to arrive, he finds the victim’s suitcase and inside a cleverly hidden package. He “unofficially” takes the item from the crime scene believing it may hold evidence key to understanding what happened to the victim. He holds little confidence in those sent to investigate, and when his old friend, DCI Jimmy Anderson, is sidelined, Macbeth is asked to “root about … get to the bottom … afore anyone else.” So, what does he make of the package? Will Macbeth’s unique insights and methods of investigation prove invaluable … again? How will he manage dealing with DCI Blair, the man he holds responsible for his fiancée’s death? And … another constable is assigned.
Favorite Series! R.W. Green has done well continuing M.C. Beaton’s Hamish Macbeth series especially with this thirty-fifth mystery. I am a fan of the television program (1995-1997), starring the iconic Robert Carlyle in the title lead, and since many of the storylines in the books were not adapted to the television series, it’s very entertaining to have a favorite character placed into new predicaments as well as seeing how the books differ from the show: Macbeth’s persona, Lochdubh residents, and putting a murder mystery at the center, hence all the “Death of …” titles.
In Death of a Traitor, “traitors” come in various forms, real or perceived, and play a key role in the crime, the enquiry, the red herrings, and several interpersonal relationships. The temporary partnership between Macbeth and DC David Forbes has an evolving dynamic from an obvious skepticism about loyalties to a successful collaboration. Again, DCI Blair’s role is contentious and interfering, and since his colleagues appear unable or unwilling to punish him, I wonder when karma will have a more active role in any comeuppance. The investigation is “couldn’t put down” engaging as clues reveal several incidents of blackmail, a questionable natural death is discovered, and numerous scenarios make for a compelling, if not long, suspect list. But, for us arm-chair detectives, we’re left to ponder who the killer is until late in the drama when a surprise death exposes the main suspect. The motive, however, stayed hidden to the end with a nail-biting attack and karmic consequences. Macbeth’s romance radar is on the fritz while he mourns Dorothy’s death, but fans know he won’t be out of the market for long.
I am always at the front of the line for the next Hamish Macbeth novel! R.W. Green, now on his own with this and the Agatha Raisin series, is an expert of Beaton’s work through his friendship and detailed discussions with her about the characters, the environment, and the crimes to investigate. He also continues to use some of Beaton’s structural elements to maintain continuity for long-time and new fans of the original work. Each chapter begins with a skull and crossbones image and a quote that supports the main theme or chapter’s focus. This book deals with trust, lies, and secrets and those that keep them, reveal them, or blackmail because of them. The book is a regular length allowing for a complete experience beyond the main investigation, but it is segmented into only ten chapters challenging my literary OCD. The cover images, however, were changed, and although in no way did it effect my enjoyment or rating, the packaging is a disappointment. I don’t like the plain purple background with the title splashed across it and a dog that doesn’t reference the story. I liked the original vision with the tartan borders and actual items or a scene appropriate to the story. Just saying.
Legends & Mythology The inclusion of myths, legends, and folklore is a fascinating element whether just extraneous background or key to the mystery. Green included several myths, real or his version, and description of objects and places adding background, color, and motivation in the drama. Auld Mary’s Tale has a fascinating Romeo & Juliet or Hatfields & McCoys theme the kidnapped son of a rival clan falling in love with the daughter of his captor. Auld Mary, considered a hero by two, a witch by some, and a traitor by others, aided the two young lovers’ escape which led to her death and later interest in the island on which she lived. The Two Sisters, mountains viewed from Lochdubh, and boulders in the glen between them formed from a battle between a giant and an imprisoned demon is a fascinating tale adding to the ancient mystery of the highlands. Insights into the background and use of a birthing amulet, a midwife’s charm, was interesting, too. It’s these extra stories, explanations, or descriptions that make a book complete and informative. Brilliant!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Grand Central Publishing thru NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
Gregor Mackenzie saw Kate Hibbert struggling down the road with her suitcase. There’d been enough interference by this woman over the year she’d been here that he is glad to see the back of her. But, three weeks later, she can’t be found, and her cousin, Diane Spears, is frustrated that Hamish has yet to find her. There was no evidence of foul play although neighbors seemed superficial in their concern, and she’d gone off before only to be found vacationing in the south of France. But, sadly, her body is found floating in The Corloch anchored with ropes and rocks; not the outcome for which Hamish hoped. While giving the area a cursory examination before being sidelined by the investigative team soon to arrive, he finds the victim’s suitcase and inside a cleverly hidden package. He “unofficially” takes the item from the crime scene believing it may hold evidence key to understanding what happened to the victim. He holds little confidence in those sent to investigate, and when his old friend, DCI Jimmy Anderson, is sidelined, Macbeth is asked to “root about … get to the bottom … afore anyone else.” So, what does he make of the package? Will Macbeth’s unique insights and methods of investigation prove invaluable … again? How will he manage dealing with DCI Blair, the man he holds responsible for his fiancée’s death? And … another constable is assigned.
Favorite Series! R.W. Green has done well continuing M.C. Beaton’s Hamish Macbeth series especially with this thirty-fifth mystery. I am a fan of the television program (1995-1997), starring the iconic Robert Carlyle in the title lead, and since many of the storylines in the books were not adapted to the television series, it’s very entertaining to have a favorite character placed into new predicaments as well as seeing how the books differ from the show: Macbeth’s persona, Lochdubh residents, and putting a murder mystery at the center, hence all the “Death of …” titles.
In Death of a Traitor, “traitors” come in various forms, real or perceived, and play a key role in the crime, the enquiry, the red herrings, and several interpersonal relationships. The temporary partnership between Macbeth and DC David Forbes has an evolving dynamic from an obvious skepticism about loyalties to a successful collaboration. Again, DCI Blair’s role is contentious and interfering, and since his colleagues appear unable or unwilling to punish him, I wonder when karma will have a more active role in any comeuppance. The investigation is “couldn’t put down” engaging as clues reveal several incidents of blackmail, a questionable natural death is discovered, and numerous scenarios make for a compelling, if not long, suspect list. But, for us arm-chair detectives, we’re left to ponder who the killer is until late in the drama when a surprise death exposes the main suspect. The motive, however, stayed hidden to the end with a nail-biting attack and karmic consequences. Macbeth’s romance radar is on the fritz while he mourns Dorothy’s death, but fans know he won’t be out of the market for long.
I am always at the front of the line for the next Hamish Macbeth novel! R.W. Green, now on his own with this and the Agatha Raisin series, is an expert of Beaton’s work through his friendship and detailed discussions with her about the characters, the environment, and the crimes to investigate. He also continues to use some of Beaton’s structural elements to maintain continuity for long-time and new fans of the original work. Each chapter begins with a skull and crossbones image and a quote that supports the main theme or chapter’s focus. This book deals with trust, lies, and secrets and those that keep them, reveal them, or blackmail because of them. The book is a regular length allowing for a complete experience beyond the main investigation, but it is segmented into only ten chapters challenging my literary OCD. The cover images, however, were changed, and although in no way did it effect my enjoyment or rating, the packaging is a disappointment. I don’t like the plain purple background with the title splashed across it and a dog that doesn’t reference the story. I liked the original vision with the tartan borders and actual items or a scene appropriate to the story. Just saying.
Legends & Mythology The inclusion of myths, legends, and folklore is a fascinating element whether just extraneous background or key to the mystery. Green included several myths, real or his version, and description of objects and places adding background, color, and motivation in the drama. Auld Mary’s Tale has a fascinating Romeo & Juliet or Hatfields & McCoys theme the kidnapped son of a rival clan falling in love with the daughter of his captor. Auld Mary, considered a hero by two, a witch by some, and a traitor by others, aided the two young lovers’ escape which led to her death and later interest in the island on which she lived. The Two Sisters, mountains viewed from Lochdubh, and boulders in the glen between them formed from a battle between a giant and an imprisoned demon is a fascinating tale adding to the ancient mystery of the highlands. Insights into the background and use of a birthing amulet, a midwife’s charm, was interesting, too. It’s these extra stories, explanations, or descriptions that make a book complete and informative. Brilliant!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Grand Central Publishing thru NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
June 25, 2024
Entertaining mystery listening 🎶🏚👒🎆😯🎵
This kindle e-book novel is from my Kindle Unlimited account book 35 of 37
Hamish is investigating a missing woman case with a detective from Edinburgh. The two of them end up with a number of death and a spy operation. Their case ends happy.
I would recommend this series and author to readers of Scotland mystery novels. 2024
This kindle e-book novel is from my Kindle Unlimited account book 35 of 37
Hamish is investigating a missing woman case with a detective from Edinburgh. The two of them end up with a number of death and a spy operation. Their case ends happy.
I would recommend this series and author to readers of Scotland mystery novels. 2024
May 1, 2024
This book had me worried for a little while toward the end. I noticed there was something on the flap copy about a "tragedy" and I was like, HOW MUCH MORE CAN HAMISH (I) TAKE?!
But it turned out all right! WHEW! And is clearly carrying on with a new level of complexity and a different kind of crime which, while I get, I don't necessarily need. I kind of feel like maybe Green should just use the last few notes from Beaton to give Hamish a nice happy ending and leave it at that? Maybe Hamish could retire and become a sheep farmer, marry a nice lady? (NOT Priscilla, becasue WTH, Priscilla?) I mean, there's only so many "murder of the week" books you can do, but also a quirky village with a lot of murder is what we're looking for in a Hamish MacBeth novel, and not so much a Jason Bourne situation?
Anyway, yes, I already have Death of a Spy out from the library and waiting for me, but I'm not quite as excited about that as I would have been a few books ago.
But I still have the utmost love for Hamish, and his crazy crew, from the Currie sisters to the revolving door of constables. I like that the Constable of the Month in this one didn't question Hamish's love for his pets and was very sweet about them, despite being a total player. And I always love a little check in with Dick and Anka, and a visit from Elspeth on a hot news story. (If Hamish and Elspeth ended up together, I wouldn't be mad.)
But it turned out all right! WHEW! And is clearly carrying on with a new level of complexity and a different kind of crime which, while I get, I don't necessarily need. I kind of feel like maybe Green should just use the last few notes from Beaton to give Hamish a nice happy ending and leave it at that? Maybe Hamish could retire and become a sheep farmer, marry a nice lady? (NOT Priscilla, becasue WTH, Priscilla?) I mean, there's only so many "murder of the week" books you can do, but also a quirky village with a lot of murder is what we're looking for in a Hamish MacBeth novel, and not so much a Jason Bourne situation?
Anyway, yes, I already have Death of a Spy out from the library and waiting for me, but I'm not quite as excited about that as I would have been a few books ago.
But I still have the utmost love for Hamish, and his crazy crew, from the Currie sisters to the revolving door of constables. I like that the Constable of the Month in this one didn't question Hamish's love for his pets and was very sweet about them, despite being a total player. And I always love a little check in with Dick and Anka, and a visit from Elspeth on a hot news story. (If Hamish and Elspeth ended up together, I wouldn't be mad.)
November 12, 2022
I want to thank NetGalley and the the publisher for letting me read and review ‘Death of a Traitor’.
I have read every Hamish Macbeth story and I am extremely glad that R. W. Green has continued the series for M. C. Beaton. I actually look forward to reading about the usual cast of characters, pets, and Hamish’s ex-girlfriends, and enjoyed the descriptions of the scenic areas of Scotland where these stories take place.
As usual, Hamish must track down a murderer, using unorthodox methods, often ignoring direct orders from his superiors, as he tries to protect the reputations of his constituents. In this case he must put up with his old nemesis, DCI Blair, when his usual supervisor, DCI Jimmy Anderson, is hurt in a car crash. He is wary when he is teamed up with DC David Forbes, but eventually finds him to be a valuable asset. Using clues and evidence he removed from crime scene, Hamish pieces together the case, but not before there are more deaths.
Even though R. W. Green’s writing style differs from the original author, M. C. Beaton, Hamish’s exploits are still exciting and well worth reading.
I have read every Hamish Macbeth story and I am extremely glad that R. W. Green has continued the series for M. C. Beaton. I actually look forward to reading about the usual cast of characters, pets, and Hamish’s ex-girlfriends, and enjoyed the descriptions of the scenic areas of Scotland where these stories take place.
As usual, Hamish must track down a murderer, using unorthodox methods, often ignoring direct orders from his superiors, as he tries to protect the reputations of his constituents. In this case he must put up with his old nemesis, DCI Blair, when his usual supervisor, DCI Jimmy Anderson, is hurt in a car crash. He is wary when he is teamed up with DC David Forbes, but eventually finds him to be a valuable asset. Using clues and evidence he removed from crime scene, Hamish pieces together the case, but not before there are more deaths.
Even though R. W. Green’s writing style differs from the original author, M. C. Beaton, Hamish’s exploits are still exciting and well worth reading.
January 28, 2024
I'd read another series by this author but I'd never tried this one. Hamish was cute. I liked the small town feel but also getting to know quite a few characters. Having not read any of the other books, you could tell there was a history here I didn't know but I didn't feel like I couldn't keep up - the mystery stood well on its own.
The mystery was interesting, I was invested. The audiobook narrator was absolutely wonderful - I could have listened to the book for hours longer! I liked the pulled together last chapter. This one was a cute cozy mystery.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
The mystery was interesting, I was invested. The audiobook narrator was absolutely wonderful - I could have listened to the book for hours longer! I liked the pulled together last chapter. This one was a cute cozy mystery.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
March 4, 2023
Total Hamish Macbeth fan here. The books have gone through a (not so positive) transformation over the past few years. Therefore, I came into this book planning on it being a one or two star farewell.
I was pleasantly surprised at the continuity of the story. I miss the local people, and Blair makes zero sense as a character. He’s a horrible policeman and a bully. The new constable was a fun storyline.
It seems to me that the author(s) no longer like Hamish Macbeth. Which causes him to read as less likable. I do not know if I will continue the series with the new author.
This was better than I expected.
I was pleasantly surprised at the continuity of the story. I miss the local people, and Blair makes zero sense as a character. He’s a horrible policeman and a bully. The new constable was a fun storyline.
It seems to me that the author(s) no longer like Hamish Macbeth. Which causes him to read as less likable. I do not know if I will continue the series with the new author.
This was better than I expected.
January 22, 2023
This seres has gone downhill fast since the death of M.C. Beaton. The writing is poor and the dialogue is simply awful.
May 3, 2023
Couldn't get into it. Too many descriptions of the characters just driving places. Super illegal police work. Suspects kind of all blended together (maybe they wouldn't have if I had read some other books in the series?). At least it was pretty short compared to most of what I've been reading lately.
March 22, 2023
I've always liked these Hamish stories, this one was good too. In this one he has a new pardner to help find the murderer, he does have to deal with det Blair again too.(but not to much!)
March 25, 2023
What can I say? It’s a pleasure to read of Hamish MacBeth’s adventures. The conflicts of his job and his struggles to remain himself are always entertaining. These are definitely “cozy” mysteries but are fun and relaxing to read. The characters and their flaws are well developed. MacBeth does his job effectively but with loyalty and understanding, to the frustration of some of his superiors. I look forward to reading more of his adventures.
February 13, 2023
4 stars
An excellent book! MC Beaton would have been proud of it!
An excellent book! MC Beaton would have been proud of it!
February 9, 2023
The Hamish Macbeth series continues in Death of a Traitor. The late M.C. Beaton is given top billing but the book is written by R.W. Green, who has big shoes to fill. This book was a little slow starting but became very readable and absorbing as it continued. As a long time reader of the series, I miss the light charm that used to fill a Hamish Macbeth book, which I read for fun and light entertainment. This book is far darker, though there are occasionally flashes of the old Hamish that brighten the narrative. That said, taken on its own, this is an enjoyable book set in the Scottish Highlands with an older, sadder, wiser lead character. I am hoping this is the last we see of DCI Blair.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.
March 3, 2023
I don't really have it in me to go in-depth with this one. I was happy with Green's previous addition to the series I love so much, but this one seemed so underseasoned compared to the rest of the series.
I kind of gave it a pass in Green-Eyed Monster because the content was so dark, but I'm really noticing now that Chesney's humour is nowhere to be found in this series anymore. We're not even getting many of the same recurring characters (although I'm super happy for Dick).
I'll continue reading this series, but I'm sorry to say that I think the whimsy of this series passed with Ms. Chesney.
I kind of gave it a pass in Green-Eyed Monster because the content was so dark, but I'm really noticing now that Chesney's humour is nowhere to be found in this series anymore. We're not even getting many of the same recurring characters (although I'm super happy for Dick).
I'll continue reading this series, but I'm sorry to say that I think the whimsy of this series passed with Ms. Chesney.
March 9, 2023
I think Green did a fairly good job of keeping Beaton's characters "in character" but he made everything too easy. Somehow Beaton kept us on edge more, things didn't neatly fall into place. Maybe it was the change in relationship between McBeth and Blaire, maybe the too-easy-to-get-along-with side kick, maybe getting the key clue too early or too easily...I don't know, it just fell flat for me. I love Hamish, so will continue to read any books that might follow, but I hope the story line gets closer to Beaton's style.
June 4, 2023
I wanted to love it but alas, the new author does not come close to the writing skills of M C Beaton. It was nice to spend time with Hamish again and I do love the setting but I think I’ll say farewell to this series. Sad.
March 26, 2023
DNF. Realized I dreaded getting back to it. I see almost no similarity to Agatha Raisin or M C Beaton in these Hamish books.
September 17, 2024
This was another M.C. Beaton that I really enjoyed after reading the latest Agatha Raisin book. I always like returning to Lochdubh. Hamish Macbeth, Priscilla Halburton-Smythe, and Elspeth Grant return again along with Jimmy Anderson, Blair, and Daviot, and the colourful characters make the story what it is.
This mystery has gone a bit darker than previous ones, though the last one was quite dark as well. I don't think it's entirely a cosy crime series anymore, as there has been mob involvement, torture resulting in death, and animal harm as well. There are still plenty of cosy elements to the series, as Hamish tries to sort out his tangled love life with a new constable in the station, chatting to various different people across Sutherland to solve a murder.
M.C. Beaton is still credited as the main writer, even with R.W. Green now writing the series since Beaton's death, but the essence of Beaton's characters are still there along with the central plot elements. I love seeing the development of Jimmy Anderson through the last few books, and I hope we still get to see that continue. Jimmy's relationship with Hamish Macbeth is always a central element of the stories and I hope it continues to be!
I always love coming back to Lochdubh and I'm about to dive straight into the next one in the series! I hope the series keeps going because they're always lovely light reads, engaging, with great characters and a scenic location that is well-described.
This mystery has gone a bit darker than previous ones, though the last one was quite dark as well. I don't think it's entirely a cosy crime series anymore, as there has been mob involvement, torture resulting in death, and animal harm as well. There are still plenty of cosy elements to the series, as Hamish tries to sort out his tangled love life with a new constable in the station, chatting to various different people across Sutherland to solve a murder.
M.C. Beaton is still credited as the main writer, even with R.W. Green now writing the series since Beaton's death, but the essence of Beaton's characters are still there along with the central plot elements. I love seeing the development of Jimmy Anderson through the last few books, and I hope we still get to see that continue. Jimmy's relationship with Hamish Macbeth is always a central element of the stories and I hope it continues to be!
I always love coming back to Lochdubh and I'm about to dive straight into the next one in the series! I hope the series keeps going because they're always lovely light reads, engaging, with great characters and a scenic location that is well-described.
April 6, 2023
R. W. Green does a good job in keeping the series alive.
May 26, 2024
Great book filled with intrigue.
March 31, 2025
Some great character writing and great scene setting. Loved every bit of this book. The twist at the end was completely unexpected! Only slight negative, I found the dialogue a little difficult at times, but that's just me.
April 26, 2025
I liked the story line but the language had me confused at points!
December 2, 2025
Hamish being Hamish.
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