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Scottish Isle Mystery #4
Death on a Scottish Train
Dr. Emilia McRoy, an American in Scotland, has a killer in sight in the fourth installment of the Scottish Isle mystery series, perfect for fans of Paige Shelton and Connie Berry.
Summer is coming to a close on beautiful Sea Isle in Scotland, and Dr. Emilia McRoy is celebrating one year since her big move. With a weeklong festival to end the season, the town gathers for a magical ride on the newly refurbished Storyteller’s Train but the launch’s success is dampened by an unexpected death.
What appears to be a case of deadly allergies is soon revealed as murder. As Emilia, her assistant Abigail, and the local constable Ewan McGregor unravel the mystery, the killer sets their murderous intentions on them.
If they want to survive, they will need the help of all of their friends, before they become the latest victims.
Summer is coming to a close on beautiful Sea Isle in Scotland, and Dr. Emilia McRoy is celebrating one year since her big move. With a weeklong festival to end the season, the town gathers for a magical ride on the newly refurbished Storyteller’s Train but the launch’s success is dampened by an unexpected death.
What appears to be a case of deadly allergies is soon revealed as murder. As Emilia, her assistant Abigail, and the local constable Ewan McGregor unravel the mystery, the killer sets their murderous intentions on them.
If they want to survive, they will need the help of all of their friends, before they become the latest victims.
240 pages, Hardcover
First published October 14, 2025
98 people are currently reading
510 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
October 9, 2025
Book four in the A Scottish Isle Mystery series.
We meet Dr. Emilia McRoy again with all her associated friends and families. Emilia has been in Sea Isle Scotland for a year now working as the local doctor and Coroner. She is settling down well and is expecting to enjoy herself on an event ride on the new Storytellers Train. Unfortunately a dead body turns up in a surprising place.
I am surprised more cosy mystery authors do not make their MC a Coroner because it does give the individual more right to investigate than the normal amateur sleuth. I see a few reviews comment that they do not have coroners in Scotland but they kind of do - they just call them Procurator-Fiscals which is a bit of a mouthful!
Altogether this was an entertaining and intelligent read and I look forward to the next book.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity t0 read and review this book
.
We meet Dr. Emilia McRoy again with all her associated friends and families. Emilia has been in Sea Isle Scotland for a year now working as the local doctor and Coroner. She is settling down well and is expecting to enjoy herself on an event ride on the new Storytellers Train. Unfortunately a dead body turns up in a surprising place.
I am surprised more cosy mystery authors do not make their MC a Coroner because it does give the individual more right to investigate than the normal amateur sleuth. I see a few reviews comment that they do not have coroners in Scotland but they kind of do - they just call them Procurator-Fiscals which is a bit of a mouthful!
Altogether this was an entertaining and intelligent read and I look forward to the next book.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity t0 read and review this book
.
October 14, 2025
I love this series! The Scottish setting is nice with interesting characters in a small town where everyone knows each other and no one can keep a secret. Dr. Emilia McRoy left Seattle to start over and has been the town's doctor and coroner for a year. She has a group of close friends who are her new family and Ewan, handsome mayor and constable, might be more but they dance around each other. A murder at a newly restored train station throw them together again to find who of the several suspects killed the strange accountant during the summer festival. Danger, action, suspense, mystery, and a fun gala round out this new addition to a great series.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
May 13, 2025
Em is an American doctor who has relocated to the small town of Sea Isle, Scotland. Volunteers have restored an old train, and there is an event with storytellers on its first run. However, one of the storytellers doesn't show up, and he's found dead later. Could he have been poisoned? Is his death due to a fatal allergy? Natural causes or murder? While Em and Ewan are investigating, their romance is starting to heat up. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
August 14, 2025
She’s back! Dr Em and the gang from Sea Isle are all back for another murder mystery. I am really enjoying this cozy mystery series set in a small seaside village on the Scottish coast where pretty much everyone knows everybody and the best place to get the latest gossip is at the local Pub run by Dr Em’s BF, Mara, and her grandparents. I get a kick out of how the townspeople in the bar all suddenly go quiet when Dr Em or Constable/Laird/Mayor Ewan walk in the place, in hopes of hearing about whatever case they’re working on.
The book summary introduces the primary storyline of the death of one of the hired storytellers for the grand opening of the new storyteller’s train trips. What the book summary doesn’t mention is that the victim wasn’t a nice guy and one who had a lot of secrets and possibly a lot of people who wanted to see him dead. There is also a secondary storyline (sort of) of Em’s growing attraction for Ewan. It’s been a year now, as well as three previous installments, since Em arrived in Sea Isle and she is clearly attracted to Ewan and really enjoys the friendship that they have developed. Personally, I’m surprised that Connelly hasn’t paired them up yet.
Most of the story revolves around the investigation of the death and the victim, who is starting to look less like a victim and more like a perpetrator whose bad karma simply caught up to him. In addition to his own police force, Ewan also has several townspeople going around asking other townspeople questions about the night of the murder. In a small place like Sea Isle, the best form of communication is the town’s pseudo party line. It’s well into the second half, and I, as well as the Sea Isle gang, have no idea who the killer is. It’s not long that the investigation takes a crazy turn that leads to some crazy and intense scenes for Em and the rest of the gang.
The continuing character development of Em, Ewan and a few of the other Sea Isle residents was well done. The relationships between Em and Mara, Jasper, Abigail and Ewan have developed into a tight knit group of friends over the course of the series and adds a lot of value to the stories. The pacing was steady and the storyline interesting. The writing was on par with the series as well as the genre. I’m looking at a solid overall rating of 4.0 for a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #CrookedLaneBooks #DeathonaScottishTrain
The book summary introduces the primary storyline of the death of one of the hired storytellers for the grand opening of the new storyteller’s train trips. What the book summary doesn’t mention is that the victim wasn’t a nice guy and one who had a lot of secrets and possibly a lot of people who wanted to see him dead. There is also a secondary storyline (sort of) of Em’s growing attraction for Ewan. It’s been a year now, as well as three previous installments, since Em arrived in Sea Isle and she is clearly attracted to Ewan and really enjoys the friendship that they have developed. Personally, I’m surprised that Connelly hasn’t paired them up yet.
Most of the story revolves around the investigation of the death and the victim, who is starting to look less like a victim and more like a perpetrator whose bad karma simply caught up to him. In addition to his own police force, Ewan also has several townspeople going around asking other townspeople questions about the night of the murder. In a small place like Sea Isle, the best form of communication is the town’s pseudo party line. It’s well into the second half, and I, as well as the Sea Isle gang, have no idea who the killer is. It’s not long that the investigation takes a crazy turn that leads to some crazy and intense scenes for Em and the rest of the gang.
The continuing character development of Em, Ewan and a few of the other Sea Isle residents was well done. The relationships between Em and Mara, Jasper, Abigail and Ewan have developed into a tight knit group of friends over the course of the series and adds a lot of value to the stories. The pacing was steady and the storyline interesting. The writing was on par with the series as well as the genre. I’m looking at a solid overall rating of 4.0 for a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #CrookedLaneBooks #DeathonaScottishTrain
April 29, 2025
Full review at Sam's Beach Reads.
What I loved:
Doc and Ewan’s relationship. Dr. Em and Ewan have been dancing around each other (figuratively and literally in this book) this whole series, but we finally made headway in this installation. Ewan is trying so damn hard to make Dr. Em realize he likes her, but she assumes he hates her. I generally hate the easily rectified miscommunication trope, but I am slowly enjoying Em realizing that her attraction is (1) not one-sided, and (2) both physical and emotional.
The Setting. As always, Connelly does a great job of creating a picture of a tight knit, event filled community where everyone gets involved and helps each other. The backdrop for this installation’s murder is the inaugural ride of a historic train from Sea Isle to Edinburgh, which her best friend helped relaunch and half the town is either volunteering to get up and running or is attending as a weekend activity. You can picture the town, its residents, and the Scottish “vibe” on every page. Who doesn’t want to live here?
What Didn’t Work as Well:
The Murder. While the idea of a murder through systematic bee pollen poisoning in cosmetics is a cool concept, I feel like the methodology of the murder and the big reveal (no spoilers) was not well executed. There was a lot of red herrings, the murder victim’s personality and his tics were almost irrelevant, and I did not feel like the end fit the whole story getting there. It felt rushed.
The Pacing. Similar to above, because the murder was only solved in around the last ten pages and very haphazardly, the rest of the pacing of this book felt painfully slow. Too much time was focused on the various red herring characters, the drama in their lives, and not enough time fleshing out our victim. Dr. Em and Ewan’s investigation was somehow both way too thorough and not effective enough, and the book lingered too long on the cozy elements and not enough on the main plot.
What I loved:
Doc and Ewan’s relationship. Dr. Em and Ewan have been dancing around each other (figuratively and literally in this book) this whole series, but we finally made headway in this installation. Ewan is trying so damn hard to make Dr. Em realize he likes her, but she assumes he hates her. I generally hate the easily rectified miscommunication trope, but I am slowly enjoying Em realizing that her attraction is (1) not one-sided, and (2) both physical and emotional.
The Setting. As always, Connelly does a great job of creating a picture of a tight knit, event filled community where everyone gets involved and helps each other. The backdrop for this installation’s murder is the inaugural ride of a historic train from Sea Isle to Edinburgh, which her best friend helped relaunch and half the town is either volunteering to get up and running or is attending as a weekend activity. You can picture the town, its residents, and the Scottish “vibe” on every page. Who doesn’t want to live here?
What Didn’t Work as Well:
The Murder. While the idea of a murder through systematic bee pollen poisoning in cosmetics is a cool concept, I feel like the methodology of the murder and the big reveal (no spoilers) was not well executed. There was a lot of red herrings, the murder victim’s personality and his tics were almost irrelevant, and I did not feel like the end fit the whole story getting there. It felt rushed.
The Pacing. Similar to above, because the murder was only solved in around the last ten pages and very haphazardly, the rest of the pacing of this book felt painfully slow. Too much time was focused on the various red herring characters, the drama in their lives, and not enough time fleshing out our victim. Dr. Em and Ewan’s investigation was somehow both way too thorough and not effective enough, and the book lingered too long on the cozy elements and not enough on the main plot.
November 26, 2025
This series has quickly become one of my go to reads for cozy mysteries. The setting is great, the characters are likable, and the mysteries are excellent. I really enjoyed the mystery of this one, it has no shortage of suspects and the story moved well. This is a series that needs several more releases!
November 16, 2025
Much better written than the first books. But the “will they or won’t they” is killing me!!!!
October 13, 2025
Death on a Scottish Train is the 4th book in the ‘Scottish Isle Mystery’ series, and my first in this series - it was an excellent read, so will be going back to read the previous three. Even though the relationships between Em and the other characters have been built during the previous three books, I did not feel a a though I have missed out on anything crucial that effected my reading of Death on a Scottish Train.
When Dr Emilia (Em) McRoy relocated from the USA to a small Scottish Island near Edinburgh to be the island GP, she didn’t realise she automatically became the Scottish equivalent of a coroner as well. This last role means, in part, that she gets to investigate suspicious deaths.
The book opens at the inaugural trip on a refurbished steam train from the fictional setting of Sea Isle to Edinburgh - while on the train, passengers get to listen to costumed storytellers who each relate a historical or mythological story about Scotland. One of the storytellers doesn’t make it onboard, and his body is found stuffed inside a cupboard back at the station on the train’s return. Initial prognosis is a fatal allergic reaction, however it quickly becomes clear that the trigger (bee venom) was deliberately put in the victim’s lip balm. Once Constable Ewan McGregor, Em and Em’s assistant Abigail start to investigate, the list of people who had reason to kill the victim quickly becomes quite lengthy.
I loved all the character portrayals - even those I suspected could have been the killer. The relationships between Em and her friends Mara, Jasper and Abigail are well written, and the fledgling romantic relationship between Em and Ewan is a gentle background story. There is fun, danger and physical attacks as the investigation progresses. Of course Em and her friends often ignore police advice and go off on their own investigations but it all ends well after the dramatic showdown.
Thank you to Crooked Lane Books for providing an advanced copy of this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own
When Dr Emilia (Em) McRoy relocated from the USA to a small Scottish Island near Edinburgh to be the island GP, she didn’t realise she automatically became the Scottish equivalent of a coroner as well. This last role means, in part, that she gets to investigate suspicious deaths.
The book opens at the inaugural trip on a refurbished steam train from the fictional setting of Sea Isle to Edinburgh - while on the train, passengers get to listen to costumed storytellers who each relate a historical or mythological story about Scotland. One of the storytellers doesn’t make it onboard, and his body is found stuffed inside a cupboard back at the station on the train’s return. Initial prognosis is a fatal allergic reaction, however it quickly becomes clear that the trigger (bee venom) was deliberately put in the victim’s lip balm. Once Constable Ewan McGregor, Em and Em’s assistant Abigail start to investigate, the list of people who had reason to kill the victim quickly becomes quite lengthy.
I loved all the character portrayals - even those I suspected could have been the killer. The relationships between Em and her friends Mara, Jasper and Abigail are well written, and the fledgling romantic relationship between Em and Ewan is a gentle background story. There is fun, danger and physical attacks as the investigation progresses. Of course Em and her friends often ignore police advice and go off on their own investigations but it all ends well after the dramatic showdown.
Thank you to Crooked Lane Books for providing an advanced copy of this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own
October 30, 2025
Another fun outing with Dr. Em and Company, this time solving a murder that had everyone puzzled, including me!
I [mostly] enjoyed this one [I DO love being "back in" Scotland; the author writes the scenery so so well]; my quibbles are small [a bit repetitive at times, a rushed reveal, Em's ridiculousness over Ewan - WHY do people apparently fear actual communication?? Good grief], I loved the time we had with the "supporting" cast - we got more than usual in this book and it was a better read because of it, the mystery was intriguing and interesting, the killer a surprise [at least for me, even though now, days later, I am not sure how I missed it], and ultimately it left me wishing I had #5 to dive right into so I could stay in a world that I have really grown to love.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lucy Connelly, and Crooked Lane Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I [mostly] enjoyed this one [I DO love being "back in" Scotland; the author writes the scenery so so well]; my quibbles are small [a bit repetitive at times, a rushed reveal, Em's ridiculousness over Ewan - WHY do people apparently fear actual communication?? Good grief], I loved the time we had with the "supporting" cast - we got more than usual in this book and it was a better read because of it, the mystery was intriguing and interesting, the killer a surprise [at least for me, even though now, days later, I am not sure how I missed it], and ultimately it left me wishing I had #5 to dive right into so I could stay in a world that I have really grown to love.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lucy Connelly, and Crooked Lane Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2025
Having read and comfortably enjoyed the other books in this series, I was looking forward to this latest installment with pleasant anticipation. Unfortunately, I was very disappointed. I found myself skim reading, skipping ahead, putting it down multiple times, and genuinely frustrated.
Ms. Connelly continues to paint an idyllic picture of a Scottish coastal town, whether it is accurate or not I cannot say, but I have enjoyed visualizing Sea Isle and the surrounding area through her words. And for the most part, this cozy mystery itself was fun to work through.
Beyond that, I think I might have to put this series on the shelf.
Many of my frustrations started popping up in book two and three, but in this book they were very difficult to gloss over. The writing felt especially wooden, almost like we were reading a script. The constant repetition of words, information, and phrases was irksome - we do not need to reread how intelligent Abigail is every time her name is printed, or how brilliant of a baker Jasper is each time his name is typed. This story also struggled with flow. It was slow in the beginning, laborious in the middle, and then clumsy and rushed at the ending; I was left looking for more, but not in a good way. However, my biggest frustration was with Emilia herself. I cannot figure out if she is supposed to be a smart, confident, mature doctor, who is capable of moving across the world to give herself a chance to reset and restart, or if she is a teenager navigating the ins and outs of high school - the characteristic flips seemed over the top in this book. The Scooby Doo gang, constant reference to her “best friends” (mid-30 year old business owners, who are not roommates, have known each other for less than a year, have budding relationships or are married, yet seem to spend every evening together - seriously?), the jump scares when someone is at the door, etc., etc., etc., all these things became so tedious, wildly unrealistic, and simply got in the way.
I was hoping that a few relationship stories would have naturally progressed, and maybe they will in a future book, but I won’t be watching for that installment with anticipation, as I can wrap those up in my own imagination.
Ms. Connelly continues to paint an idyllic picture of a Scottish coastal town, whether it is accurate or not I cannot say, but I have enjoyed visualizing Sea Isle and the surrounding area through her words. And for the most part, this cozy mystery itself was fun to work through.
Beyond that, I think I might have to put this series on the shelf.
Many of my frustrations started popping up in book two and three, but in this book they were very difficult to gloss over. The writing felt especially wooden, almost like we were reading a script. The constant repetition of words, information, and phrases was irksome - we do not need to reread how intelligent Abigail is every time her name is printed, or how brilliant of a baker Jasper is each time his name is typed. This story also struggled with flow. It was slow in the beginning, laborious in the middle, and then clumsy and rushed at the ending; I was left looking for more, but not in a good way. However, my biggest frustration was with Emilia herself. I cannot figure out if she is supposed to be a smart, confident, mature doctor, who is capable of moving across the world to give herself a chance to reset and restart, or if she is a teenager navigating the ins and outs of high school - the characteristic flips seemed over the top in this book. The Scooby Doo gang, constant reference to her “best friends” (mid-30 year old business owners, who are not roommates, have known each other for less than a year, have budding relationships or are married, yet seem to spend every evening together - seriously?), the jump scares when someone is at the door, etc., etc., etc., all these things became so tedious, wildly unrealistic, and simply got in the way.
I was hoping that a few relationship stories would have naturally progressed, and maybe they will in a future book, but I won’t be watching for that installment with anticipation, as I can wrap those up in my own imagination.
June 23, 2025
I was happy to have an opportunity to catch up with Dr. Em, Ewan, Abigail, and her brother, and the rest of the Sea Isle crew. We are coming up at the end of the tourist season and the ten day summer festival, but first, there is the grand opening of the new train service from town to Edinburgh. The five car train has been totally restored, as has the station. In addition, there are storytellers that will keep the guests entertained. Em is all dressed up and enjoying the premier ride with her friends until Mara realizes that one of her storytellers is missing. She had checked him off her list as he entered the station, but he was not to be found on the train. Em joins in the search when they return, and his body is found stuffed in a closet in the office of the train station. When the cause of death is found to be something really unusual, Em and Ewan's team get together to figure out if this was an accident or murder. This was a good mystery, Em and Ewan are finally working together. They check out possible suspects while attending festival events, getting clues from the regular crew and exploring their new in sync relationship while looking for answers. We get a wild solution and interesting relationship development with our answers! Thanks to #Netgally, #CrookedLaneBooks, and the author for an opportunity to read. #Death on a Scottish Train #AScottishIsleMystery #LucyConnelly #bookreview #bookideas #retiredreader
May 12, 2025
Death on a Scottish Train
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“ Summer is coming to a close on beautiful Sea Isle in Scotland, and Dr. Emilia McRoy is celebrating one year since her big move. With a weeklong festival to end the season, the town gathers for a magical ride on the newly refurbished Storyteller’s Train, but the launch’s success is dampened by an unexpected death. ”
This was a wonderful edition to this great mystery series! This is the 3rd book I have read in this series and they just keep getting better and better. The mystery had me on my toes the whole time. The characters are added to in every book so it makes them even better. I want to go live in Sea Isle, Scotland forever. Highly recommend this book and series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“ Summer is coming to a close on beautiful Sea Isle in Scotland, and Dr. Emilia McRoy is celebrating one year since her big move. With a weeklong festival to end the season, the town gathers for a magical ride on the newly refurbished Storyteller’s Train, but the launch’s success is dampened by an unexpected death. ”
This was a wonderful edition to this great mystery series! This is the 3rd book I have read in this series and they just keep getting better and better. The mystery had me on my toes the whole time. The characters are added to in every book so it makes them even better. I want to go live in Sea Isle, Scotland forever. Highly recommend this book and series.
December 18, 2025
By far the weakest book of the series. A whole lot of nothing happened, and I was almost done with the book and still had no idea who did it … not because there were lots of suspects but because there were absolutely none.
And yet I still wasn’t surprised at who the murderer was.
I also got kind of tired hearing about how perfect everyone is and how great her friends are and blah blah blah.
I’m still gonna read the next book before giving up on the series!
And yet I still wasn’t surprised at who the murderer was.
I also got kind of tired hearing about how perfect everyone is and how great her friends are and blah blah blah.
I’m still gonna read the next book before giving up on the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 13, 2025
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Lucy Connelly for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Death on a Scottish Train coming out October 14, 2025. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Summer is coming to a close on beautiful Sea Isle in Scotland, and Dr. Emilia McRoy is celebrating one year since her big move. With a weeklong festival to end the season, the town gathers for a magical ride on the newly refurbished Storyteller’s Train but the launch’s success is dampened by an unexpected death.
What appears to be a case of deadly allergies is soon revealed as murder. As Emilia, her assistant Abigail, and the local constable Ewan McGregor unravel the mystery, the killer sets their murderous intentions on them.
If they want to survive, they will need the help of all of their friends, before they become the latest victims.
I really love this series! I love the setting in Scotland. The train setting was a lot of fun. It always reminds me Murder on the Orient Express. I loved the mystery. I’d definitely check out more books in the series!
Summer is coming to a close on beautiful Sea Isle in Scotland, and Dr. Emilia McRoy is celebrating one year since her big move. With a weeklong festival to end the season, the town gathers for a magical ride on the newly refurbished Storyteller’s Train but the launch’s success is dampened by an unexpected death.
What appears to be a case of deadly allergies is soon revealed as murder. As Emilia, her assistant Abigail, and the local constable Ewan McGregor unravel the mystery, the killer sets their murderous intentions on them.
If they want to survive, they will need the help of all of their friends, before they become the latest victims.
I really love this series! I love the setting in Scotland. The train setting was a lot of fun. It always reminds me Murder on the Orient Express. I loved the mystery. I’d definitely check out more books in the series!
May 19, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an Advanced Reading Copy of Murder on a Scottish Train by Lucy Connelly. I've been following this series from the beginning and continue to enjoy every new installment.
Emilia’s “fish out of water” journey remains one of the most charming aspects of the series—her adjustment to life in Scotland, along with her unique role as both doctor and coroner, keeps things fresh and make me want to visit. I appreciated how her medical knowledge usually plays a crucial role in solving the mystery – and in interesting way to go if one is to be murdered, in this one.
The romance continues its slow burn; I’m glad it isn’t rushed. It feels more organic though the couple in question is moving forward which is satisfying. The found family dynamic adds warmth to the story—though it occasionally borders on too much, it never fully crosses the line into overly saccharine.
The train is mostly tangential but an interesting bit. I personally enjoy when the mystery focuses on interviews, suspect dynamics, and evidence-gathering—and this book delivers on that front.
A solid addition to a delightful cozy mystery series. Looking forward to what comes next for Emilia and the rest of the cast!
Emilia’s “fish out of water” journey remains one of the most charming aspects of the series—her adjustment to life in Scotland, along with her unique role as both doctor and coroner, keeps things fresh and make me want to visit. I appreciated how her medical knowledge usually plays a crucial role in solving the mystery – and in interesting way to go if one is to be murdered, in this one.
The romance continues its slow burn; I’m glad it isn’t rushed. It feels more organic though the couple in question is moving forward which is satisfying. The found family dynamic adds warmth to the story—though it occasionally borders on too much, it never fully crosses the line into overly saccharine.
The train is mostly tangential but an interesting bit. I personally enjoy when the mystery focuses on interviews, suspect dynamics, and evidence-gathering—and this book delivers on that front.
A solid addition to a delightful cozy mystery series. Looking forward to what comes next for Emilia and the rest of the cast!
September 17, 2025
This latest entry checks all the cozy mystery boxes for location, light romance etc. It was good but for me not as good as the previous titles in the series. On the plus side, you could start with this title having not read the previous titles and not feel you are trying to catch up or missing out on anything. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an eArc in exchange for a review.
August 17, 2025
Dr. Emilia McRoy had worked ER in the US but is now the MD/coroner for small, remote Sea Isle, a Scottish town which is the responsibility of Ewan Campbell who is constable/mayor/barrister/laird.
The current excitement is a refurbished train kitted out as a Storyteller's Train complete with storytellers dressed as characters from Golden Age mysteries. But one of them never shows up. The fussbudget cantankerous one (of course) and he winds up murdered and stuffed into a closet. Gather the usual good guys and work together to solve the mystery! Well done (as always)!
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital galley from CROOKED LANE BOOKS via NetGalley. Pub date 10/14/2025
#MurderonaScottishTrain by @lucyconnellybooks #ScottishIsleMysteriesBk4 @crookedlanebooks @penguinrandomhouse #cozymystery #Scotland #theme train #friends #relationships #murder #attemptedmurder #investigations #familydrama #summerfestival #incipientromance
The current excitement is a refurbished train kitted out as a Storyteller's Train complete with storytellers dressed as characters from Golden Age mysteries. But one of them never shows up. The fussbudget cantankerous one (of course) and he winds up murdered and stuffed into a closet. Gather the usual good guys and work together to solve the mystery! Well done (as always)!
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital galley from CROOKED LANE BOOKS via NetGalley. Pub date 10/14/2025
#MurderonaScottishTrain by @lucyconnellybooks #ScottishIsleMysteriesBk4 @crookedlanebooks @penguinrandomhouse #cozymystery #Scotland #theme train #friends #relationships #murder #attemptedmurder #investigations #familydrama #summerfestival #incipientromance
September 7, 2025
I haven’t read any books by this author. I wonder why she chose Scotland as she clearly doesn’t know it! really hope this was an unproofread book. I was so distracted by all the errors in spelling, punctuation and grammar. American words such as sidewalk, s’mores and others. Everyone says ‘ dinnae’ at least once - only common in the East of Scotland. . ‘ Society’ people - like Ewan and his family- definitely would not use it in regular conversation. There is even a reference to dollars instead of pounds as proceeds from a will. We don’t have ‘mayors’ in Scotland and they certainly don’t appoint coroners. The book is very obviously a Hollywood version of Scotland. As a Glaswegian and a proofreader, I was disappointed. I liked the idea of the story but really didn’t like the execution.
April 26, 2025
I remember when the 1st book in this series, An American in Scotland, came out. It was all anyone could talk about. I bought it, of course, but it took me months before I finally decided to read it. I wasn’t sure I would like it. Boy was I wrong! Lucy Connelly quickly became my favorite author.
Murder on a Scottish Train has everything I want in a cozy.
Dr Emilia has the best friends a girl could ask for. They are always down to do crazy and possibly dangerous things just to make sure she’s safe. I love the all fun loving, quirkiness. The way Lucy brings her characters to life, I don’t feel like I’m reading a story about fictional characters and I definitely want to be part of their friend group! The banter between her and Ewan is unparalleled but also if those two don’t realize they are perfect for each other and do it soon I’m going to scream!
Anyways, back to the review. When someone is found dead on opening night of the town’s new storytelling train we all know that Em can’t just do the coroner job and walk away. She has a much too curious mind and has to help investigate. That curious mind of hers has gotten her into some trouble and sticky situations in the past. This time is no different. Lucy Connelly has done a bang up job once again, keeping us guessing at every corner trying to figure out who done it and why!
P.S. Just in case by some miracle Lucy reads this review lol This series can never end!
Murder on a Scottish Train has everything I want in a cozy.
Dr Emilia has the best friends a girl could ask for. They are always down to do crazy and possibly dangerous things just to make sure she’s safe. I love the all fun loving, quirkiness. The way Lucy brings her characters to life, I don’t feel like I’m reading a story about fictional characters and I definitely want to be part of their friend group! The banter between her and Ewan is unparalleled but also if those two don’t realize they are perfect for each other and do it soon I’m going to scream!
Anyways, back to the review. When someone is found dead on opening night of the town’s new storytelling train we all know that Em can’t just do the coroner job and walk away. She has a much too curious mind and has to help investigate. That curious mind of hers has gotten her into some trouble and sticky situations in the past. This time is no different. Lucy Connelly has done a bang up job once again, keeping us guessing at every corner trying to figure out who done it and why!
P.S. Just in case by some miracle Lucy reads this review lol This series can never end!
April 27, 2025
B&N offers ebook and hardback. Probably hardback but need to wait.
Unlike a lot of people, I just recently discovered Lucy Connelly and fell in love, so I was excited to see Death on A Scottish Train the fourth book in her A Scottish Isle Mystery series, available on NetGalley. I requested it, crossed my fingers when I got the approval, and cheered when I got it. Death on a Scottish Train was as great as I expected and now has me hooked on another series. It may take me a while to buy all of them, but that will happen as soon as I can make it happen. After reading so many books where the police tell the main character to stay out of the investigation, and rightly, it was great to be part of the work the investigators did. I loved seeing the mutual respect among the professionals and watching the interaction among the friends. While I had no problem deciding who the killer was, it did not detract at all from the plot. The whole story, the multiple mysteries, and finding out how things worked was intriguing throughout. I hope the chance of romance doesn't drag out too much, but I am fine with the slowly developing relationship for now.
Thank you, NetGalley and Crooked Lane, for allowing me to read and review Lucy Connelly's wonderful new book Death on a Scottish Train. My friends will be as excited about this book and about finding a compelling new series as I am.
#NetGalley #CrookedLane #AScottishIsleMystery #LucyConnelly #DeathonaScottishTrain
Unlike a lot of people, I just recently discovered Lucy Connelly and fell in love, so I was excited to see Death on A Scottish Train the fourth book in her A Scottish Isle Mystery series, available on NetGalley. I requested it, crossed my fingers when I got the approval, and cheered when I got it. Death on a Scottish Train was as great as I expected and now has me hooked on another series. It may take me a while to buy all of them, but that will happen as soon as I can make it happen. After reading so many books where the police tell the main character to stay out of the investigation, and rightly, it was great to be part of the work the investigators did. I loved seeing the mutual respect among the professionals and watching the interaction among the friends. While I had no problem deciding who the killer was, it did not detract at all from the plot. The whole story, the multiple mysteries, and finding out how things worked was intriguing throughout. I hope the chance of romance doesn't drag out too much, but I am fine with the slowly developing relationship for now.
Thank you, NetGalley and Crooked Lane, for allowing me to read and review Lucy Connelly's wonderful new book Death on a Scottish Train. My friends will be as excited about this book and about finding a compelling new series as I am.
#NetGalley #CrookedLane #AScottishIsleMystery #LucyConnelly #DeathonaScottishTrain
August 23, 2025
Review of free ARC from NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
I am all for a murder mystery. This "cozy mystery" did not really resound with me. The setting was interesting, and the main character was likable. But, there wasn't much depth to the characters to actually connect to them.
The writing style of this book wasn't really my thing. It read more like a script than a book, almost entirely just conversations. And, quite a lot of repetition, even acting as some discoveries were new when they had already been discussed. The pacing was strange, as it mostly doesn't feel like it moves anywhere, but then everything suddenly is solved in the last few pages.
This is the first book I have read in this series. You definitely do not need to have read any others first, but I'm not sure I would be reading any of the others.
I am all for a murder mystery. This "cozy mystery" did not really resound with me. The setting was interesting, and the main character was likable. But, there wasn't much depth to the characters to actually connect to them.
The writing style of this book wasn't really my thing. It read more like a script than a book, almost entirely just conversations. And, quite a lot of repetition, even acting as some discoveries were new when they had already been discussed. The pacing was strange, as it mostly doesn't feel like it moves anywhere, but then everything suddenly is solved in the last few pages.
This is the first book I have read in this series. You definitely do not need to have read any others first, but I'm not sure I would be reading any of the others.
March 21, 2025
This has been one of my favorite cozy series the past few years. I still really like it, but this one doesn't feel as strong to me as the previous books. I still love the main characters, but somehow the mystery itself and the fabulous Scottish setting seem to have lost ground to the forthcoming romance between Dr. Em and Ewan. Definitely worth a read, still! But I'm crossing my fingers that I love the next book more than this one.
Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 17, 2025
It's obvious that this is a small group of colleagues/ friends in a village atmosphere. Yet somehow it didn't feel cozy. For me, a lot of the time it felt awkward and stilted. No spoilers here but how they made the breakthrough just seemed more luck than sleuthing.
The title is also misleading; the death does not take place on a train.
I'm feeling this is not really a book or series for me, but other reviews indicate its resonated with many , and that's great!
With thanks to Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review
The title is also misleading; the death does not take place on a train.
I'm feeling this is not really a book or series for me, but other reviews indicate its resonated with many , and that's great!
With thanks to Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review
October 27, 2025
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Death on a Scottish Train by Lucy Connelly is a well-written mystery with some character match-ups.
Will Emilia and Ewan figure out if it is an accident or murder?
Dr. Emilia McRoy is attending the recently remodeled vintage train evening ride with the rest of the town. However, it was discovered that one of the storytellers didn't show up for his reading, even though he had checked in. This leads Emilia and Constable Ewan McGregor to search for the gentleman. They find him upon returning to the station, as the man never got on the train. Donald Jacks is the missing man, who they find deceased in the train station office.
Mr. Jacks is not a well-liked man. He is a local accountant and train enthusiast. Yet he doesn't have many friends and is estranged from his sister, his only living family member. Mr. Jack's accounting firm partner isn't a nice man. He constantly cheats on his wife, and his mistresses aren't all that discreet. The accounting assistant is a bit shady as well. In fact, there is no shortage of suspects. Especially, since Mr. Jacks wasn't good at investing his clients' money.
Emilia and the Gang
This installment brings a touch of romance to the air. Emilia and Ewan seem to be past their dislike and are moving in a different direction. Abigail and Henry seem to have found their footing. The others also seem to have a few dates happening.
I really like the dynamic of this group of sleuths. Especially the way that they take care of each other, making sure everyone is ok to move forward. It was good to see Ewan with his mother, too. He is such a wonderful gentleman.
Four Stars
My rating for Death on a Scottish Train by Lucy Connelly is four stars. I enjoyed the mystery and thought it was well plotted. However, I thought the reveal seemed rushed. Perhaps there should have been a bit more clues leading back to the culprit or a stronger motive. Although the motive is a tried and true one. So, well played, Ms. Connelly.
If you haven't read the Scottish Isle Mysteries, I do recommend them. You never know what trouble an American in Scotland will find.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Death on a Scottish Train by Lucy Connelly.
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
Death on a Scottish Train by Lucy Connelly is a well-written mystery with some character match-ups.
Will Emilia and Ewan figure out if it is an accident or murder?
Dr. Emilia McRoy is attending the recently remodeled vintage train evening ride with the rest of the town. However, it was discovered that one of the storytellers didn't show up for his reading, even though he had checked in. This leads Emilia and Constable Ewan McGregor to search for the gentleman. They find him upon returning to the station, as the man never got on the train. Donald Jacks is the missing man, who they find deceased in the train station office.
Mr. Jacks is not a well-liked man. He is a local accountant and train enthusiast. Yet he doesn't have many friends and is estranged from his sister, his only living family member. Mr. Jack's accounting firm partner isn't a nice man. He constantly cheats on his wife, and his mistresses aren't all that discreet. The accounting assistant is a bit shady as well. In fact, there is no shortage of suspects. Especially, since Mr. Jacks wasn't good at investing his clients' money.
Emilia and the Gang
This installment brings a touch of romance to the air. Emilia and Ewan seem to be past their dislike and are moving in a different direction. Abigail and Henry seem to have found their footing. The others also seem to have a few dates happening.
I really like the dynamic of this group of sleuths. Especially the way that they take care of each other, making sure everyone is ok to move forward. It was good to see Ewan with his mother, too. He is such a wonderful gentleman.
Four Stars
My rating for Death on a Scottish Train by Lucy Connelly is four stars. I enjoyed the mystery and thought it was well plotted. However, I thought the reveal seemed rushed. Perhaps there should have been a bit more clues leading back to the culprit or a stronger motive. Although the motive is a tried and true one. So, well played, Ms. Connelly.
If you haven't read the Scottish Isle Mysteries, I do recommend them. You never know what trouble an American in Scotland will find.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Death on a Scottish Train by Lucy Connelly.
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
March 13, 2025
Can you believe it's been a year since Dr. Emilia Ray moved to Sea Isle, Scotland? Dr. Emilia (Em), Constable Ewan and the rest of her newly found family of friends in Sea Isle, Scotland once again encounter a dead body. This time it is at the newly remodeled station for the newly refurbished story train. Em's dear friend, Mara is one of the organizers so most of the gang is there to celebrate the return of the train to town. When one of the storytellers, does not show up for his assigned times, Mara and Em go looking for him. They eventually find him stuffed in a closet in the station. Along with investigating this death, it is also the Summer Festival in Sea Isle, so there are numerous events and activities for everyone to participate in. As in small towns everywhere, entire communities not only help with these events, they also find time to share the local gossip surrounding the latest murder in town. Everyone has questions and theories and many of them seem to be suspects at one point or another. As one after another is alibied out and new clues appear, people start to get hurt. The who done it, how and why take their time becoming clear, but it all makes sense in the end and it was a rollicking good time getting to that end!
I always find myself wanting to return to Sea Isle almost as soon as I finish one of the books. I would like to have had more of Angie in this one. She always adds to the hijinks Emilia gets herself into, but Mara and Jasper did an admirable job of egging her on. They are also more blatant in their encouragement of the budding relationship between Ewan and Em. Since both have been hurt in the past, the slow burn seems right, but the romance is finally making a bit of progress. I find myself rooting for Tommy more in each book. I was so happy he stretched his singing chops this time. I admire Abigail for her dedication and selflessness when it comes to her brother. Dr. Emilia Roy, Mara's grandparents, Jasper, Ewan and his team, especially Henry, Lulu, now add Ewan's parents and you have exactly the kind of people I want to be surrounded by. For me, a visit to Sea Isle is a time to be cherished.
Thanks to NetGalley for the chance to read this advance reader copy and provide my honest review.
I always find myself wanting to return to Sea Isle almost as soon as I finish one of the books. I would like to have had more of Angie in this one. She always adds to the hijinks Emilia gets herself into, but Mara and Jasper did an admirable job of egging her on. They are also more blatant in their encouragement of the budding relationship between Ewan and Em. Since both have been hurt in the past, the slow burn seems right, but the romance is finally making a bit of progress. I find myself rooting for Tommy more in each book. I was so happy he stretched his singing chops this time. I admire Abigail for her dedication and selflessness when it comes to her brother. Dr. Emilia Roy, Mara's grandparents, Jasper, Ewan and his team, especially Henry, Lulu, now add Ewan's parents and you have exactly the kind of people I want to be surrounded by. For me, a visit to Sea Isle is a time to be cherished.
Thanks to NetGalley for the chance to read this advance reader copy and provide my honest review.
October 13, 2025
The Scooby crew is back to solve another murder! Dr. Emilia McRoy left Seattle to settle in Sea Isle, Scotland. The contract that she signed as their new doctor included the position of coroner. Much to the annoyance of Ewan, the constable and mayor of the village, she not only performed autopsies, but also got involved in investigating what led to the deaths, putting herself in danger several times. He has now more or less given up on warning her not to get involved. In Lucy Connelly’s latest entry in the series he actually agreed to involve her in the investigation. A volunteer group has refurbished an old train that offers storytellers as entertainment on a run between Sea Isle and Edinburgh. On the initial run one of the storytellers goes missing. It is Emmmy who finds his body in a closet at the station. He died from an allergy to bee venom, but if it was an allergy that killed him, who put him in the closet? The bee venom was found in his lip balm, confirming murder. The victim, Donald Jacks, was an accountant who had a number of clients that suffered losses and were dissatisfied. Jacks and his partner were also under investigation for their practices. Sea Isle is a small village and word travels fast. Emmy has developed a close network of friends in the year that she has been there. They have helped her in the past and are prepared to do what they can to help her find the murderer after her clinic is broken into. Mara, who runs the local pub, keeps her ears open as she tends bar. Jasper runs a bakery and caters major events in the area, where he observes attendees and picks up on all of the gossip. Abigail is Emmy’s assistant. She keeps Emmy organized and is essential to the clinic, often anticipating what is needed before Emmy even asks for it. As the series has progressed, Emmy’s relationship with Ewan has changed. As they butted heads, everyone around them noticed that there was also an attraction. Emmy has been burned by a bad relationship in the past but they have finally been able to acknowledge the attraction, making this latest entry in the series not only an excellent mystery, but a cozy that will bring smiles to Connelly’s readers. I would like to thank NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing this book.
April 3, 2025
ER physician Dr. Emilia McRoy emigrated to Scotland to become Sea Isle's doctor/coroner. She's encountered many a patient, and even some dead bodies that turned out to be homicide. But this one is strange. While attending the newest tourist attraction in their village, the refurbished and renewed Storyteller's Train, she discovers a dead man in a small room. When trying to figure out how he died, she comes across the fact that he died from allergies. Or so she thinks. It's not long before she and her assistant Abigail find out the man was murdered.
Digging into his past, she and constable Ewan McGregor learn that he had many enemies. He was an accountant, and they find that he has been cheating his clients. Lots of bad blood there. But who was the killer? His partner? His so-called friends? Or someone they haven't discovered yet? With the help of her friends, Emilia sees that this isn't going to be easy...and someone doesn't want her to find out anything else...
This is the fourth book in the series, and I do like the way things are progressing. We get to see a bit more about her Scottish friends, and even Em's life is proceeding in a way she never expected, and she's at a loss somewhat. But it's a lovely procession forward, and I enjoyed it.
The mystery is very intriguing, and not so easy to figure out who the murderer is, which I really like. Although there are many times I know right away who the killer is, I find it refreshing when it takes me longer -- just like the protagonist -- to figure it all out. This is one of those books, and really worth reading.
The plot is great in itself, but there are even subplots that are also a good part of the book. They don't take away from the mystery, but add to it, along with other clues. The clues aren't that easy to find, but they are there just the same.
Without giving anything else away, I will say that this book is delightful, full of secrets and suspense, and definitely worth the time. I enjoyed it immensely and cannot recommend it enough/
I was given an advance copy from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
Digging into his past, she and constable Ewan McGregor learn that he had many enemies. He was an accountant, and they find that he has been cheating his clients. Lots of bad blood there. But who was the killer? His partner? His so-called friends? Or someone they haven't discovered yet? With the help of her friends, Emilia sees that this isn't going to be easy...and someone doesn't want her to find out anything else...
This is the fourth book in the series, and I do like the way things are progressing. We get to see a bit more about her Scottish friends, and even Em's life is proceeding in a way she never expected, and she's at a loss somewhat. But it's a lovely procession forward, and I enjoyed it.
The mystery is very intriguing, and not so easy to figure out who the murderer is, which I really like. Although there are many times I know right away who the killer is, I find it refreshing when it takes me longer -- just like the protagonist -- to figure it all out. This is one of those books, and really worth reading.
The plot is great in itself, but there are even subplots that are also a good part of the book. They don't take away from the mystery, but add to it, along with other clues. The clues aren't that easy to find, but they are there just the same.
Without giving anything else away, I will say that this book is delightful, full of secrets and suspense, and definitely worth the time. I enjoyed it immensely and cannot recommend it enough/
I was given an advance copy from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
October 17, 2025
Death on a Scottish Train is the fourth book in Lucy Connelly's Scottish Isle Mystery series. Our MC is Dr. Emilia McRoy, who has now been in Sea Isle, Scotland, for a year after transplanting from the United States. She is the primary care doctor/coroner in the town, adjusting well to the slower pace after running the ER in a much larger hospital system in the US. Over the past year, she has made some very good, close friends, and has developed a bit of an up and down relationship with Ewan McGregor, the constable and mayor of Sea Isle. When the town gathers for the inaugural ride of their newly refurbished Storyteller's Train, all is good until they realize that one of their volunteer storytellers, a man who was very excited and looking forward to the the event due to his love of trains, is missing, even though he had been checked in back at the station before they left. When they return to the station at the completion of the ride and perform a search, his body is found stuffed in a closet, deceased. Upon further investigation by Emilia, her assistant and Ewan, it is determined that the victim, Donald Jacks, died from an allergic reaction to bee venom, but how did he come into contact with the bee venom, and why wasn't he carrying his Epi-Pen?
I must confess that this is my first book in the Scottish Isle Mystery series, but I didn't have any problem following the action and the relationships between the characters. I really enjoyed this book. The characters were likeable and well written. I loved the coziness of the village, and watching the at times contentious relationship between Emilia and Ewan develop into a partnership, and perhaps the start of something deeper. The plot was interesting, the pacing was spot on, and the conclusion was satisfying. The setting was a hit, as well.
All in all, I enjoyed this book very much, and intend to go back to the beginning of the series so I can read the previous three books before the next book in the series comes out.
5/5 stars.
*** I would like to thank NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and Lucy Connelly for the opportunity to read and review Death on a Scottish Train.
I must confess that this is my first book in the Scottish Isle Mystery series, but I didn't have any problem following the action and the relationships between the characters. I really enjoyed this book. The characters were likeable and well written. I loved the coziness of the village, and watching the at times contentious relationship between Emilia and Ewan develop into a partnership, and perhaps the start of something deeper. The plot was interesting, the pacing was spot on, and the conclusion was satisfying. The setting was a hit, as well.
All in all, I enjoyed this book very much, and intend to go back to the beginning of the series so I can read the previous three books before the next book in the series comes out.
5/5 stars.
*** I would like to thank NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and Lucy Connelly for the opportunity to read and review Death on a Scottish Train.
October 11, 2025
I received a complimentary ARC copy of Death on a Scottish Train (A Scottish Isle Mystery #4) by Lucy Connelly from Net Galley and Crooked Lane Books in order to read and give an honest review.
… this was an entertaining and intelligent read that kept me guessing. The blend of a cozy Scottish setting, a strong, likable protagonist, and a compelling mystery is perfect…”
The Sea Isle is calling once again! In the fourth entry of the charming Scottish Isle Mystery Series, we’re back with the ever-evolving Dr. Emilia McRoy and her delightful circle of friends as they prepare for a festive send-off to summer. Emilia, still finding her footing since swapping her painful past in the US for a new life as the local doctor/unexpected Coroner, has really embraced her new, crime-solving side—and thank goodness she has! The Isle certainly needs her.
This time, the joyous atmosphere is derailed by death during a special trip on a newly refurbished locomotive, aptly named the Storytellers Train. The local train enthusiast who spearheaded the project is found lifeless. Initially, his death seems to be by natural causes, but an autopsy by Emilia quickly suggests a very different, and far more sinister, story.
As Emilia, her friend Abigail, and the multi-tasking mayor/constable Ewan McGregor begin to dig, motives start popping up suggesting plenty of people had a reason to see the train enthusiast gone for good. Connelly crafts a clever plot where the danger mounts with every clue. Our amateur sleuth and well meaning friends find themselves drawing closer to the truth, which, in turn, puts them in the killer’s sights.
All in all, this was an entertaining and intelligent read that kept me guessing. The blend of a cozy Scottish setting, a strong, likable protagonist, and a compelling mystery is perfect. Fans of the series will enjoy seeing Emilia continue to settle into her dual role and into her new community. I look forward to the next adventure on the Scottish Isle! I would recommend this to anyone looking for an amazing cozy mystery.
… this was an entertaining and intelligent read that kept me guessing. The blend of a cozy Scottish setting, a strong, likable protagonist, and a compelling mystery is perfect…”
The Sea Isle is calling once again! In the fourth entry of the charming Scottish Isle Mystery Series, we’re back with the ever-evolving Dr. Emilia McRoy and her delightful circle of friends as they prepare for a festive send-off to summer. Emilia, still finding her footing since swapping her painful past in the US for a new life as the local doctor/unexpected Coroner, has really embraced her new, crime-solving side—and thank goodness she has! The Isle certainly needs her.
This time, the joyous atmosphere is derailed by death during a special trip on a newly refurbished locomotive, aptly named the Storytellers Train. The local train enthusiast who spearheaded the project is found lifeless. Initially, his death seems to be by natural causes, but an autopsy by Emilia quickly suggests a very different, and far more sinister, story.
As Emilia, her friend Abigail, and the multi-tasking mayor/constable Ewan McGregor begin to dig, motives start popping up suggesting plenty of people had a reason to see the train enthusiast gone for good. Connelly crafts a clever plot where the danger mounts with every clue. Our amateur sleuth and well meaning friends find themselves drawing closer to the truth, which, in turn, puts them in the killer’s sights.
All in all, this was an entertaining and intelligent read that kept me guessing. The blend of a cozy Scottish setting, a strong, likable protagonist, and a compelling mystery is perfect. Fans of the series will enjoy seeing Emilia continue to settle into her dual role and into her new community. I look forward to the next adventure on the Scottish Isle! I would recommend this to anyone looking for an amazing cozy mystery.
October 6, 2025
Death on a Scottish Train by Lucy Connelly is a cozy mystery set in the charming small town of Sea Isle, Scotland.
American Dr. Emilia “Em” McRoy is close to her one-year anniversary of her move to Scotland. She has become a valuable member of the community and she has a wide circle of friends. In addition to being the town’s doctor, Em is also the coroner on Sea Isle. Much to the dismay of Mayor/Constable Ewan McGregor, she cannot resist becoming involved in the investigations into the deaths by foul play.
Em is quite supportive of her friends, and she is delighted to be on the inaugural launch of the renovated Storyteller’s Train. When storyteller Donald Jacks fails to show up for his scheduled appearance, Em decides to help her friend Mara find out what happened to him. She discovers his body, and with her assistant Abigail’s help, she is eager to uncover his cause of death. Em is determined to find out what happened to Jacks and to her surprise, Ewan requests her help during the investigation.
Death on a Scottish Train is the wonderful fourth installment in the Scottish Isle Mystery series. Em is a beautifully developed character whose curiosity sometimes lands her in precarious situations. Ewan is a taciturn yet thoughtful caretaker of his beloved town. He is also a methodical investigator and the perfect foil for Em’s impulsivity. The investigation into Jacks death is intriguing and difficult to solve. Em and Ewan’s friends and the rest of townspeople are nosy but caring. With a few surprises, Lucy Connelly brings this clever cozy mystery to a satisfying conclusion.
American Dr. Emilia “Em” McRoy is close to her one-year anniversary of her move to Scotland. She has become a valuable member of the community and she has a wide circle of friends. In addition to being the town’s doctor, Em is also the coroner on Sea Isle. Much to the dismay of Mayor/Constable Ewan McGregor, she cannot resist becoming involved in the investigations into the deaths by foul play.
Em is quite supportive of her friends, and she is delighted to be on the inaugural launch of the renovated Storyteller’s Train. When storyteller Donald Jacks fails to show up for his scheduled appearance, Em decides to help her friend Mara find out what happened to him. She discovers his body, and with her assistant Abigail’s help, she is eager to uncover his cause of death. Em is determined to find out what happened to Jacks and to her surprise, Ewan requests her help during the investigation.
Death on a Scottish Train is the wonderful fourth installment in the Scottish Isle Mystery series. Em is a beautifully developed character whose curiosity sometimes lands her in precarious situations. Ewan is a taciturn yet thoughtful caretaker of his beloved town. He is also a methodical investigator and the perfect foil for Em’s impulsivity. The investigation into Jacks death is intriguing and difficult to solve. Em and Ewan’s friends and the rest of townspeople are nosy but caring. With a few surprises, Lucy Connelly brings this clever cozy mystery to a satisfying conclusion.
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