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DI Callum MacLean #1
Murder in the New Forest
The first gripping title in a brand new detective series
A woman’s body lies in the heather, her neck broken. Her horse watches nervously from a few paces away.
Despite looking like an accident, it doesn’t take long for DI Callum MacLean, newly arrived in Hampshire from Glasgow, to establish she was murdered.
Nor does it take DS Daisy Donaldson, appearing soon after on horseback, long to identify the victim.
Mary-Ellen Mitchell was a well-known and seemingly well-liked businesswoman, married to a respected local artist, and part of the close-knit community.
The Scottish detective must adapt quickly to his new team, his past experience of policing a tough city jarring with the pace of Fordingbridge and their peculiar ways.
But having hoped for respite in the south, and although made welcome by Daisy, Callum soon feels like he’s being used as a pawn in someone else’s game.
However, if Callum can evade the pitfalls and marshal his team, they may well catch the wily killer hiding in the shadows of the woods.
MURDER IN THE NEW FOREST is the first novel in a series of DI Callum MacLean mysteries by Carol Cole.
A woman’s body lies in the heather, her neck broken. Her horse watches nervously from a few paces away.
Despite looking like an accident, it doesn’t take long for DI Callum MacLean, newly arrived in Hampshire from Glasgow, to establish she was murdered.
Nor does it take DS Daisy Donaldson, appearing soon after on horseback, long to identify the victim.
Mary-Ellen Mitchell was a well-known and seemingly well-liked businesswoman, married to a respected local artist, and part of the close-knit community.
The Scottish detective must adapt quickly to his new team, his past experience of policing a tough city jarring with the pace of Fordingbridge and their peculiar ways.
But having hoped for respite in the south, and although made welcome by Daisy, Callum soon feels like he’s being used as a pawn in someone else’s game.
However, if Callum can evade the pitfalls and marshal his team, they may well catch the wily killer hiding in the shadows of the woods.
MURDER IN THE NEW FOREST is the first novel in a series of DI Callum MacLean mysteries by Carol Cole.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 26, 2024
597 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
December 12, 2024
A Real Page Turner
I always enjoy reading books based in places I know so was very excited to come across this one very close to where I live. I found it a bit difficult to start with as most of the characters had nicknames and I got confused, but that says more about me than the writer so have not deducted any stars. I decided to go with the flow and before long I was really engrossed in the book. I found this book a real page turner and hope this is just the start of a new series.
I always enjoy reading books based in places I know so was very excited to come across this one very close to where I live. I found it a bit difficult to start with as most of the characters had nicknames and I got confused, but that says more about me than the writer so have not deducted any stars. I decided to go with the flow and before long I was really engrossed in the book. I found this book a real page turner and hope this is just the start of a new series.
November 29, 2024
A brilliant debut, with wonderful writing and a good team of detectives with carefully observed characters. Sub-plots that keep you interested. And a glorious setting.
November 30, 2024
I was really sad when I couldn’t find sequel or any other book by this author. I really really liked this book and will watch for the next one.
February 6, 2025
DNF @ 52%… It’s just too slow & dry for my liking.
June 9, 2025
This was not a pleasing reading experience.
I bought it because of so many favorable reviews here on Good Reads.
Not a great loss - it was just 99 cents and gave me something to read in between gardening tasks.
I bought it because of so many favorable reviews here on Good Reads.
Not a great loss - it was just 99 cents and gave me something to read in between gardening tasks.
January 26, 2025
Excellent Story
This is the first book that I have read by this author but it will not be the last. An excellent story with a great cast of characters and one with plenty of twists and.Looking forward to reading more.
This is the first book that I have read by this author but it will not be the last. An excellent story with a great cast of characters and one with plenty of twists and.Looking forward to reading more.
January 22, 2025
I certainly like these characters and enjoyed reading them.
February 10, 2025
Some books take a while to get into. In contrast, "Murder In The New Forest" was one that engaged my interest from the onset and maintained it for the duration.
The reason why is probably due to the characterization. I love a good police procedural and this one had well rounded characters that you could easily visualize and feel like you knew them. It had a good balance between the crime investigation and the police officers personal lives.
DI Callum MacLean - a Scot who lived and worked in Glasgow, Scotland before transferring to the Hampshire Constabulary. He has recently lost his beloved wife Grace to illness, and though only in his mid-thirties, he is now a grieving widower. He is a patient, intelligent, and diligent police officer who we meet on his very first day in Hampshire. A busy day that lands him in the centre of a murder investigation. As he has not yet found a place to live, he is temporarily staying with his second in command, Sergeant Daisy Donaldson.
Detective Sergeant Daisy Donaldson (Deedee) - short and slight, Daisy is a keen horsewoman and loves all animals, especially her dog. She is single and lives alone.
DC Almadia Levens (Legs) - a tall, black woman who is in a committed lesbian relationship with a woman named Gloria. She is originally from Liverpool and is the daughter of a vicar.
DC Tony Hampton (Bird) - an ex-army man who is happily married. In late middle age, he and his wife take in injured birds, hence his nickname. Bird is a reliable team player.
DC Thomas Cooke (Cookie) - a young man who has high energy, some interesting jargon, and a keen knowledge of all technology and social media. He has just recently been promoted out of uniform and this is his first case.
and then there is also the pathologist, Martha Jones, a larger than life woman with grey hair and a brusque manner that belies a wicked sense of humour.
This novel will really appeal not only to readers who enjoy police procedural mysteries, but also to animal lovers. This part of Hampshire is horse country. Both horses and dogs permeate the plot.
The police team quickly become a tightly knit, supportive unit. Callum finds himself feeling included and appreciated. As a reader, I loved the team's dynamics.
The murder investigation was an interesting one that included a wealthy family and their family skeletons. Avarice, privilege, and entitlement weigh heavily on the motive front.
I am very interesting in pursuing this series to find out more about these colourful and interesting characters.
4.5 stars rounded up
The reason why is probably due to the characterization. I love a good police procedural and this one had well rounded characters that you could easily visualize and feel like you knew them. It had a good balance between the crime investigation and the police officers personal lives.
DI Callum MacLean - a Scot who lived and worked in Glasgow, Scotland before transferring to the Hampshire Constabulary. He has recently lost his beloved wife Grace to illness, and though only in his mid-thirties, he is now a grieving widower. He is a patient, intelligent, and diligent police officer who we meet on his very first day in Hampshire. A busy day that lands him in the centre of a murder investigation. As he has not yet found a place to live, he is temporarily staying with his second in command, Sergeant Daisy Donaldson.
Detective Sergeant Daisy Donaldson (Deedee) - short and slight, Daisy is a keen horsewoman and loves all animals, especially her dog. She is single and lives alone.
DC Almadia Levens (Legs) - a tall, black woman who is in a committed lesbian relationship with a woman named Gloria. She is originally from Liverpool and is the daughter of a vicar.
DC Tony Hampton (Bird) - an ex-army man who is happily married. In late middle age, he and his wife take in injured birds, hence his nickname. Bird is a reliable team player.
DC Thomas Cooke (Cookie) - a young man who has high energy, some interesting jargon, and a keen knowledge of all technology and social media. He has just recently been promoted out of uniform and this is his first case.
and then there is also the pathologist, Martha Jones, a larger than life woman with grey hair and a brusque manner that belies a wicked sense of humour.
This novel will really appeal not only to readers who enjoy police procedural mysteries, but also to animal lovers. This part of Hampshire is horse country. Both horses and dogs permeate the plot.
The police team quickly become a tightly knit, supportive unit. Callum finds himself feeling included and appreciated. As a reader, I loved the team's dynamics.
The murder investigation was an interesting one that included a wealthy family and their family skeletons. Avarice, privilege, and entitlement weigh heavily on the motive front.
I am very interesting in pursuing this series to find out more about these colourful and interesting characters.
4.5 stars rounded up
February 17, 2025
Great characters
The description of characters made me feel like I was part of the scene. Strong plot. Looking forward to next read.
The description of characters made me feel like I was part of the scene. Strong plot. Looking forward to next read.
May 26, 2025
Police procedural set in an interesting venue. Sympathetic characters. Read both the first and second books back to back. Looking forward to third.
February 5, 2025
Glaswegian DI Callum MacLean arrives on his first day at New Forest in Hampshire and already there is a murder to solve. Mary-Ellen Mitchell a well known business woman and well loved local is found dead near her horse. It looks like her horse has thrown her off - but forensics find out she has actually been murdered.
DI MacLean is thrown into the deep end as he gets to know his team and with no knowledge of the country side , he has a lot to learn.
I have really enjoyed reading this story, it has a 'Beyond Paradise ' (BBC one show) feel to it. The characters are believable, with the writing having authencity due to this and the authors knowledge of the local area that the story is based on. Fantastic plot which kept me guessing right till the very end. Really looking forward to the next story in the series.
DI MacLean is thrown into the deep end as he gets to know his team and with no knowledge of the country side , he has a lot to learn.
I have really enjoyed reading this story, it has a 'Beyond Paradise ' (BBC one show) feel to it. The characters are believable, with the writing having authencity due to this and the authors knowledge of the local area that the story is based on. Fantastic plot which kept me guessing right till the very end. Really looking forward to the next story in the series.
February 5, 2025
A pacy and exciting debut crime thriller with Scottish detective Callum MacLean. This is the first of two novels featuring MacLean, a sharp detective with depth and a cool Camaro car to flit between crime scenes. MacLean has only just moved from Scotland to Hampshire and barely checked into lodgings when he has to visit his first body. A murder made to look like an accident. Gritty and gripping from the first chapter, this made for a fast and interesting read with great twisting storylines and memorable characters. I look forward to reading the next in the series. #murderinthenewforest #carolcole #thebookfolks #thriller #detective #debut #detectivecallummaclean #Camaro #Hampshire #newforest
February 10, 2025
A good read
I really enjoyed this book and all the characters in it. Good guessing who did what and when . I will definitely read this Author again
I really enjoyed this book and all the characters in it. Good guessing who did what and when . I will definitely read this Author again
February 1, 2025
We're introduced to DI Callum MacLean as he's settling in. The dynamics between him and his colleagues is good and he's fitting in well. I thought things might be a little rocky with Daisy but they work well together and I enjoyed their interactions. It feels like he's the change the team needed particularly for Legs. Could happily settle into this series and am looking forward to more to come 😊
The crime itself unfolds slowly with a range of suspects to keep you guessing. Some are loathsome and you can easily see how they'd be suspects but not all is as it seems and there's another character that seems vulnerable but is actually quite the opposite. Certainly keeps you guessing.
The crime itself unfolds slowly with a range of suspects to keep you guessing. Some are loathsome and you can easily see how they'd be suspects but not all is as it seems and there's another character that seems vulnerable but is actually quite the opposite. Certainly keeps you guessing.
January 24, 2025
Although I live near the New Forest it made me want to walk further from the car park. The mystery was solved and the pace quickened nicely. The characters still have their mysteries as befits a first book in a series.
February 20, 2025
My 💭 thoughts:
Murder in the New Forest by Carol Cole is a gripping mystery that immerses readers in a world of suspense, intrigue, and well-crafted characters. Set in the picturesque New Forest, the story follows a sharp-witted detective, as he unravels a chilling murder that shakes the quiet community. Cole does an excellent job weaving local charm with dark secrets, keeping the readers on the edge of their seats. The pacing is just right, with twists and turns that keep you guessing until the very end. Fans of classic murder mysteries will enjoy this book.
Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a well-written, captivating whodunit.
I thought it was a brilliant first novel and I can’t wait to read the next book, which was released on 3rd February!
Murder in the New Forest by Carol Cole is a gripping mystery that immerses readers in a world of suspense, intrigue, and well-crafted characters. Set in the picturesque New Forest, the story follows a sharp-witted detective, as he unravels a chilling murder that shakes the quiet community. Cole does an excellent job weaving local charm with dark secrets, keeping the readers on the edge of their seats. The pacing is just right, with twists and turns that keep you guessing until the very end. Fans of classic murder mysteries will enjoy this book.
Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a well-written, captivating whodunit.
I thought it was a brilliant first novel and I can’t wait to read the next book, which was released on 3rd February!
August 21, 2025
What a start to a series. Callum MacLean has moved far away from Scotland and is in a very rural location. He is immediately thrown into a murder investigation when an initial appearance of an accidental death is soon proved otherwise.
I loved this. It was a total page-turner and I loved the characters and how Callum is trying to suss out the different personalities on his team, how they interact and what each brings to the investigation. Daisy is already a favourite and I look forward to seeing whatever in her background she is hiding, come to light. There are some nasty characters here and while there was a lot of sadness in the story, I enjoyed the ultimate reveal of the killer. I'm off to read the next book immediately.
I loved this. It was a total page-turner and I loved the characters and how Callum is trying to suss out the different personalities on his team, how they interact and what each brings to the investigation. Daisy is already a favourite and I look forward to seeing whatever in her background she is hiding, come to light. There are some nasty characters here and while there was a lot of sadness in the story, I enjoyed the ultimate reveal of the killer. I'm off to read the next book immediately.
May 10, 2025
I liked this well enough. It’s light reading, nothing grim, and it kept my interest all the way through. The whodunnit wasn’t who I thought it was but the ending wrapped up nicely albeit a little too cleanly.
I enjoyed getting to know Callum and his new team and their quirks. However I found it annoying and confusing that the author gave each member a nickname. That made it hard to follow who’s who. Sure, one or two but the entire team?!?! At the end there’s a character list along with nicknames which I didn’t discover in time as I read it in e-book format.
This is the first in a series. I’m undecided whether I’ll continue as I have so many to tackle on my reading list. I might….
I enjoyed getting to know Callum and his new team and their quirks. However I found it annoying and confusing that the author gave each member a nickname. That made it hard to follow who’s who. Sure, one or two but the entire team?!?! At the end there’s a character list along with nicknames which I didn’t discover in time as I read it in e-book format.
This is the first in a series. I’m undecided whether I’ll continue as I have so many to tackle on my reading list. I might….
May 27, 2025
This first one of a new series is great and I really liked the police team. A great start and hopefully this will be continued.
It was really easy to read and although I guessed some answers to questions thrown up in the plot, there were still surprises! The descriptions of the area were excellent and there was an instant affinity with the main characters.
Looking forward to book 2.
It was really easy to read and although I guessed some answers to questions thrown up in the plot, there were still surprises! The descriptions of the area were excellent and there was an instant affinity with the main characters.
Looking forward to book 2.
February 14, 2025
This is a good start to a new crime series introducing DCI Callum MacLean. He has just moved from Scotland to the New Forest, to get over a loss. Before he has even found somewhere to live he is thrown in at the deep end with the murder of Mary-Ellen Mitchell the murder has been staged to look like an accident, but Callum is not convinced.
There are some great characters in the team that I am sure Callum will work on, although it is their characteristics that makes each of them fun, each having nicknames, which Callum gradually learns.
His boss DCI Bertram Bellman, constantly tells Callum to stay away from the Devereux-Strauss family and put all of his focus on Jimmy Eastwood because he had had an affair with her.
But Callum is a by the book kind of officer, and goes where the evidence leads him. But it initially seems that everyone has an alibi, unless someone is altering their timeline. But who? there are several suspects, but the team come up empty handed. Until a few things start dropping into place. Will they catch the killer? Will you guess who is guilty?
I loved all of the characters in this book, initially I found it a little slow but I think that is more me than the writing. The plot is well thought out, and I loved reading of something down in my neck of the woods. Will Callum be persuaded to ride a horse? It seems everyone around there ride horses, but Callum seems a little scared of them.
This is definitely a series to watch out for especially if you like a character driven novel, with three dimensional characters, well plotted. Believable. A great start, definitely one to look out for if you like a good police procedural. I can’t wait to see these characters grow.
There are some great characters in the team that I am sure Callum will work on, although it is their characteristics that makes each of them fun, each having nicknames, which Callum gradually learns.
His boss DCI Bertram Bellman, constantly tells Callum to stay away from the Devereux-Strauss family and put all of his focus on Jimmy Eastwood because he had had an affair with her.
But Callum is a by the book kind of officer, and goes where the evidence leads him. But it initially seems that everyone has an alibi, unless someone is altering their timeline. But who? there are several suspects, but the team come up empty handed. Until a few things start dropping into place. Will they catch the killer? Will you guess who is guilty?
I loved all of the characters in this book, initially I found it a little slow but I think that is more me than the writing. The plot is well thought out, and I loved reading of something down in my neck of the woods. Will Callum be persuaded to ride a horse? It seems everyone around there ride horses, but Callum seems a little scared of them.
This is definitely a series to watch out for especially if you like a character driven novel, with three dimensional characters, well plotted. Believable. A great start, definitely one to look out for if you like a good police procedural. I can’t wait to see these characters grow.
April 16, 2025
I don't know how to rate this, I read it for local interest and I thought there could have been more detail included. The writing wasn't as strong as some other local authors in my opinion. I would probably give 3 stars for the story but 1 (no) star for what happened to Felix.... how could you Carol!
December 23, 2024
3 3/4 Stars
Scottish based detective is reassigned to the New Forest in Southern England. Before he has time to settle in a woman is murdered in the New Forest. It has been made to look like she has been thrown from her horse. But it is soon discovered that her neck was broken before she was even put on the horse. This is an interesting story, there are many characters with many names. It was a bit difficult to adjust to the "dialect" as well. But I liked it and will read the next Callum MacLean mystery. I selected it because I had been to the New Forest and thought I could learn more about it.
Scottish based detective is reassigned to the New Forest in Southern England. Before he has time to settle in a woman is murdered in the New Forest. It has been made to look like she has been thrown from her horse. But it is soon discovered that her neck was broken before she was even put on the horse. This is an interesting story, there are many characters with many names. It was a bit difficult to adjust to the "dialect" as well. But I liked it and will read the next Callum MacLean mystery. I selected it because I had been to the New Forest and thought I could learn more about it.
September 4, 2025
Intriguing!
I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written police drama. DI Callum MacLean is tasked with discovering who murdered a wealthy, prominent female on his first day in a new location and with a new crew of officers. He has not had time to find accommodations, let alone unpack. Traversing the new location as well as getting to know the locals is presenting a challenge as he feels thrown into a strange new world. He is also still suffering from the loss of his wife, which makes him seem at times unfriendly and unapproachable.
Unraveling the mystery surrounding the death of someone who seemingly had no enemies, peeling back layers of secrets, lies, and cover-ups is truly a daunting task. But as he gets to know his team, especially the detective who has generously invited him to share her home until he gets settled, he decides he wants to stay in the area. Finely drawn, realistic, and mostly likable characters made it an enjoyable read. I have downloaded book two and am pleased to know that book three will be released soon.
I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written police drama. DI Callum MacLean is tasked with discovering who murdered a wealthy, prominent female on his first day in a new location and with a new crew of officers. He has not had time to find accommodations, let alone unpack. Traversing the new location as well as getting to know the locals is presenting a challenge as he feels thrown into a strange new world. He is also still suffering from the loss of his wife, which makes him seem at times unfriendly and unapproachable.
Unraveling the mystery surrounding the death of someone who seemingly had no enemies, peeling back layers of secrets, lies, and cover-ups is truly a daunting task. But as he gets to know his team, especially the detective who has generously invited him to share her home until he gets settled, he decides he wants to stay in the area. Finely drawn, realistic, and mostly likable characters made it an enjoyable read. I have downloaded book two and am pleased to know that book three will be released soon.
February 5, 2025
This is the first book in the DI Callum Maclean mysteries and can be read as a standalone. I loved the setting for this book as I know The New Forest very well and could picture it as I was reading the story. When DI Callum Maclean arrives in Hampshire, he knows it will be very different to what he is use to in his home town. But he is straight on a case where his expertise come in handy. It is a lot to take on and also making acquaintances with his new work colleagues is harder than he thought. Can him and his team work together to solve the crime or will he end up thinking he wants to move back home. I thought it was a good read, strong characters and artfully keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.
February 17, 2025
" [...] He was impatient to escape the smell of horses and get to the station and into his comfort zone, to feel a solid floor beneath his feet. [...]"
This was my first encounter with Carol Cole's work, and I already know that it will not be the last. Her book "Murder in the New Forest" made a huge impression on me. I would like to know the further fate of Detective Inspector Callum MacLean. I liked his work. He did his duties well. I rooted for him in his quest to solve the case of Mary-Ellen Mitchell's death. Was it suicide, murder or maybe an accidental death? Of course, you will find out from this book. I guarantee you a lot of emotions and plot twists. The action is slow at first, but at the end it gallops like horses on the loose.
I am delighted with the beautiful landscapes. In my mind's eye, I felt as if I was there.
I also liked Sergeant Daisy Donaldson. Her behaviour left a positive impression on me. You should definitely meet her.
If you like English crimes, then feel free to reach for "Murder in the New Forest" by Carol Cole. This book is worth your attention.
The cover of this novel perfectly reflects the story hidden inside.
This was my first encounter with Carol Cole's work, and I already know that it will not be the last. Her book "Murder in the New Forest" made a huge impression on me. I would like to know the further fate of Detective Inspector Callum MacLean. I liked his work. He did his duties well. I rooted for him in his quest to solve the case of Mary-Ellen Mitchell's death. Was it suicide, murder or maybe an accidental death? Of course, you will find out from this book. I guarantee you a lot of emotions and plot twists. The action is slow at first, but at the end it gallops like horses on the loose.
I am delighted with the beautiful landscapes. In my mind's eye, I felt as if I was there.
I also liked Sergeant Daisy Donaldson. Her behaviour left a positive impression on me. You should definitely meet her.
If you like English crimes, then feel free to reach for "Murder in the New Forest" by Carol Cole. This book is worth your attention.
The cover of this novel perfectly reflects the story hidden inside.
March 3, 2025
DI Callum has been transferred to New Forest area of Scotland from Glasgow. On the first day of arrival to his new job, a murder has been committed. Callum has not only got to get used to his new team and their idiosyncrasies, but a new boss that is more worried about politics then finding a murderer. Callum is also dealing with a very high-powered political family that may or may not be involved in several incidences. It’s a good read, and if the reader pays attention, they can figure out the murderer and the reasons why given all of the clues the writer has put in the book.
July 28, 2025
Set in an English village, DI Callum MacLean is now the assignment. Still grieving the loss of his wife and trying to find a reason to keep living, he finds himself in a close-knit police department with likable characters.......and he begins to heal.
Murder of a beloved local businesswoman, who is also an avid horsewoman sets in motion an investigation into a powerful local family.
Other than the killing of the dog, which I found unnecessary to the plot I quite liked this book and will likely read more in the series. Likable characters, good mystery and interesting setting
Murder of a beloved local businesswoman, who is also an avid horsewoman sets in motion an investigation into a powerful local family.
Other than the killing of the dog, which I found unnecessary to the plot I quite liked this book and will likely read more in the series. Likable characters, good mystery and interesting setting
April 24, 2025
So descriptive you could almost be there
Living very close to the New Forest myself, it was great reading a book telling of the life in tge area through the eyes of a jaded inner city glaswegian bloke (who will forever be in mind as a bully connelly lookalike.
The author's passions for both
art (painting) and horseshoe comes through loud and clear and brings the scenes alive.
Good plot and characters. Lookong forward to more in the series.
Living very close to the New Forest myself, it was great reading a book telling of the life in tge area through the eyes of a jaded inner city glaswegian bloke (who will forever be in mind as a bully connelly lookalike.
The author's passions for both
art (painting) and horseshoe comes through loud and clear and brings the scenes alive.
Good plot and characters. Lookong forward to more in the series.
April 26, 2025
A decent start and has promise, although there are a few stereotypical characters and it was quite obvious who the murderer was. Hopefully further novels will develop the main characters more so that you can empathise with them. I found myself more concerned about the animals and not happy about Felix at all.
April 16, 2025
3.5 stars for a promising series. DI Callum MacLean is in new territory with a new team, and I liked the way the author brought the team together quickly, inviting the reader to invest in all of the characters. Look forward to the next one and learning more about the characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews