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A Rip Through Time #4.5
Kirkyards & Kindness
Mallory Mitchell and Dr. Duncan Gray take a break from investigating murder to find the most famous dog in Victorian Scotland.
A year ago, twenty-first-century detective Mallory found herself in 1869 Edinburgh, in the body of Catriona Mitchell, a housemade working for Dr. Duncan Gray, pioneer in forensic science. Shortly after she arrived, she made the unfortunate acquaintence of Catriona’s former criminal mentor, Davina, an entanglement that nearly got Mallory killed. Now she’s about to meet Davina again.
Greyfriars Bobby has disappeared. The little terrier is already a legend, and Davina has made a tidy living showing him off on graveyard tours…while picking the pockets of her guests. When the elderly dog vanishes, Davina calls in a favor from her old student. Mallory agrees to help find Bobby in return for the one thing she’s been unable to get from Davina—the mysterious Catriona’s life story.
Note this is not a full-length novel. It's a novella set after Death at a Highland Wedding.
A year ago, twenty-first-century detective Mallory found herself in 1869 Edinburgh, in the body of Catriona Mitchell, a housemade working for Dr. Duncan Gray, pioneer in forensic science. Shortly after she arrived, she made the unfortunate acquaintence of Catriona’s former criminal mentor, Davina, an entanglement that nearly got Mallory killed. Now she’s about to meet Davina again.
Greyfriars Bobby has disappeared. The little terrier is already a legend, and Davina has made a tidy living showing him off on graveyard tours…while picking the pockets of her guests. When the elderly dog vanishes, Davina calls in a favor from her old student. Mallory agrees to help find Bobby in return for the one thing she’s been unable to get from Davina—the mysterious Catriona’s life story.
Note this is not a full-length novel. It's a novella set after Death at a Highland Wedding.
158 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 2, 2025
298 people are currently reading
1259 people want to read
About the author
Kelley Armstrong
299 books33.7k followersKelley Armstrong has been telling stories since before she could write. Her earliest written efforts were disastrous. If asked for a story about girls and dolls, hers would invariably feature undead girls and evil dolls, much to her teachers' dismay. All efforts to make her produce "normal" stories failed.
Today, she continues to spin tales of ghosts and demons and werewolves, while safely locked away in her basement writing dungeon. She's the author of the NYT-bestselling "Women of the Otherworld" paranormal suspense series and "Darkest Powers" young adult urban fantasy trilogy, as well as the Nadia Stafford crime series. Armstrong lives in southwestern Ontario with her husband, kids and far too many pets.
Today, she continues to spin tales of ghosts and demons and werewolves, while safely locked away in her basement writing dungeon. She's the author of the NYT-bestselling "Women of the Otherworld" paranormal suspense series and "Darkest Powers" young adult urban fantasy trilogy, as well as the Nadia Stafford crime series. Armstrong lives in southwestern Ontario with her husband, kids and far too many pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
March 2, 2026
I've been looking forward to catching up with Mallory and the gang back in 1869 Edinburgh. This short novella has Mallory and Duncan kind of at a loss of what to do with themselves. Based on the last installment, both Isla and McCreadie are now courting and spending all their free time together, leaving Mallory and Duncan to fend for themselves for friendly companionship and entertainment.
This development has Mallory concerned for her circumstances when Isla and McCreadie marry, which they surely will; it's simply a matter of time. Based on Victorian mores and etiquette, Mallory can not continue to live in a house with a single Duncan; it would be inappropriate. This has Mallory considering Duncan's proposal of a marriage of convenience, which has left Mallory dejected that their relationship is not a romantic one, as much as she would love it to be because Mallory is in love with Duncan and doesn't believe the feelings are mutual.
Anyway, Mallory and Duncan agree to find out what happened to a rather well known stray dog that is believed to have been abducted. Mallory agrees to look into the dog's disappearance, with the assistance of Duncan, of course. However, Mallory extracts an deal with Davina (who wants to know what happened to the dog) in exchange for information from Davina on Catriona's past. Mallory who somehow transported from her present day body into Catriona's 1869 body while they were both being attack in the same Edinburgh alley. Davina and Catriona were partners in crime for many years and Mallory wants to know everything Davina knows about Catriona.
This was such a short story so there wasn't much character development except for the continuing character development of Mallory/Catriona and the pacing was fast. The storyline was entertaining and the writing was on par for the storyline. I'm looking at an overall rating of 3.9 that I will be rounding up to a 4star review. Now it's on to the next installment that I have been really excited to read.
This development has Mallory concerned for her circumstances when Isla and McCreadie marry, which they surely will; it's simply a matter of time. Based on Victorian mores and etiquette, Mallory can not continue to live in a house with a single Duncan; it would be inappropriate. This has Mallory considering Duncan's proposal of a marriage of convenience, which has left Mallory dejected that their relationship is not a romantic one, as much as she would love it to be because Mallory is in love with Duncan and doesn't believe the feelings are mutual.
Anyway, Mallory and Duncan agree to find out what happened to a rather well known stray dog that is believed to have been abducted. Mallory agrees to look into the dog's disappearance, with the assistance of Duncan, of course. However, Mallory extracts an deal with Davina (who wants to know what happened to the dog) in exchange for information from Davina on Catriona's past. Mallory who somehow transported from her present day body into Catriona's 1869 body while they were both being attack in the same Edinburgh alley. Davina and Catriona were partners in crime for many years and Mallory wants to know everything Davina knows about Catriona.
This was such a short story so there wasn't much character development except for the continuing character development of Mallory/Catriona and the pacing was fast. The storyline was entertaining and the writing was on par for the storyline. I'm looking at an overall rating of 3.9 that I will be rounding up to a 4star review. Now it's on to the next installment that I have been really excited to read.
December 8, 2025
Kelley Armstrong is back with another of her great thrillers that spans over a century and a half. Mallory Atkinson continues to settle in 19th century Scotland with her secret of time travel. She remains stuck in the body of Catriona Mitchell, a housemade working for Dr. Duncan Gray, pioneer in forensic science. To date, she remains unaware of Catriona’s past, though the criminally-minded Davina has much she could tell. Greyfriars Bobby, a popular terrier, has disappeared. Davina seeks Mallory’s assistance, as the little pup has helped bring in a large sum of coins and has helped Davina trick hapless people who agree to graveyards tours. Mallory agrees to take up the case, bringing Dr. Gray along with her, hoping this will cement a promise that Davina will share the truth about Catriona’s past. This could be beneficial for both parties, should everyone remain on the up and up. Kelley Armstrong delivers a great novella to keep the series fresh in the mind of readers.
I discovered the work of Kelley Armstrong not too long ago and cannot get enough. It was another series that pulled me in, but Armstrong’s use of time travel seemed intriguing. The series has a great narrative foundation, keeping the reader well connected to all that is going on. The needed momentum keeps the story sharp and makes sure there is little time to rest, as th action is plentiful.
As things gain speed, the handful of core characters develop effectively, keeping the reader curious. Mallory Atkinson remains a great protagonist whose life has been split between two centuries, eager to get answers to fit the pieces together. Others help add depth and a flavoring to the series, which I have always enjoyed. Armstrong has always been able to effectively paint clear images of her characters and stories with those who grace the pages of her publications.
The characters are complemented by a strong plot that weaves its way throughout and provides multiple surprises on which the reader can feast. While this is a novella, it was packed with twists that make the reader take note of all moving parts.
I am eager to see where things are headed with this series and how Kelley Armstrong will keep appealing to her reading base.
Kudos, Madam Armstrong, for another addictive piece in this time-travel collection.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at: http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
I discovered the work of Kelley Armstrong not too long ago and cannot get enough. It was another series that pulled me in, but Armstrong’s use of time travel seemed intriguing. The series has a great narrative foundation, keeping the reader well connected to all that is going on. The needed momentum keeps the story sharp and makes sure there is little time to rest, as th action is plentiful.
As things gain speed, the handful of core characters develop effectively, keeping the reader curious. Mallory Atkinson remains a great protagonist whose life has been split between two centuries, eager to get answers to fit the pieces together. Others help add depth and a flavoring to the series, which I have always enjoyed. Armstrong has always been able to effectively paint clear images of her characters and stories with those who grace the pages of her publications.
The characters are complemented by a strong plot that weaves its way throughout and provides multiple surprises on which the reader can feast. While this is a novella, it was packed with twists that make the reader take note of all moving parts.
I am eager to see where things are headed with this series and how Kelley Armstrong will keep appealing to her reading base.
Kudos, Madam Armstrong, for another addictive piece in this time-travel collection.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at: http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
December 5, 2025
This series is so good, and this one finally provided some important backstory for Catriona's life.
January 18, 2026
Story 4.25 stars
This is a novella in this series about a modern day female detective that switches places with a chambermaid from 1869. She didn’t switch willingly, but has found a new life as assistant to a Dr. Duncan Gray, an undertaker and forensic scientist of the 1869 sort. They solve crimes together In Edinburgh Scotland. This time Greyfriar’s Bobby, the famous dog that lives on his masters grave, has been stolen. Not exactly the murder cases they usually solve, but I enjoyed it all the same. I remember crying when I was young when I saw the movie about the dog so that just added to my time with this read. The whole series is very well crafted and I really recommend it to mystery readers or ones that enjoy time travel.
This is a novella in this series about a modern day female detective that switches places with a chambermaid from 1869. She didn’t switch willingly, but has found a new life as assistant to a Dr. Duncan Gray, an undertaker and forensic scientist of the 1869 sort. They solve crimes together In Edinburgh Scotland. This time Greyfriar’s Bobby, the famous dog that lives on his masters grave, has been stolen. Not exactly the murder cases they usually solve, but I enjoyed it all the same. I remember crying when I was young when I saw the movie about the dog so that just added to my time with this read. The whole series is very well crafted and I really recommend it to mystery readers or ones that enjoy time travel.
December 19, 2025
This is a novella (#4.5) in the A Rip Through Time series.
I love this series. And I love Mallory and Gray. This case was interesting. Although it wasn’t as elaborate as most of their previous cases. I definitely loved seeing all of my favorite characters and am so excited about the next full length book.
I love this series. And I love Mallory and Gray. This case was interesting. Although it wasn’t as elaborate as most of their previous cases. I definitely loved seeing all of my favorite characters and am so excited about the next full length book.
January 5, 2026
Events in Kirkyards & Kindness take place after Death at a Highland Wedding. While each book/novella in this series features its own mystery, the overall arc of what happened to Mallory and the relationship she forms in Edinburgh have me recommending you read the series in the order of their release.
Greyfriars Bobby has disappeared, and a deadly acquaintance of Catriona is seeking Mallory’s help. Davina was the former criminal mentor of Catriona, and the last time she and Mallory tangled, she was nearly killed. So naturally, Duncan is concerned. The two agree to meet Davina, who seeks help to find Greyfrairs Bobby.
Bobby is a terrier who sits on a grave and is beloved by children and tourists alike. Davina claims his disappearance is hurting her tours, and Mallory and Duncan agree to help for information about Catriona. The story was clever, with twists and turns that kept me entertained. I loved spending time with Duncan and Mallory in this quieter investigation. It was the perfect snack to hold me over until the next full-length novel. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Greyfriars Bobby has disappeared, and a deadly acquaintance of Catriona is seeking Mallory’s help. Davina was the former criminal mentor of Catriona, and the last time she and Mallory tangled, she was nearly killed. So naturally, Duncan is concerned. The two agree to meet Davina, who seeks help to find Greyfrairs Bobby.
Bobby is a terrier who sits on a grave and is beloved by children and tourists alike. Davina claims his disappearance is hurting her tours, and Mallory and Duncan agree to help for information about Catriona. The story was clever, with twists and turns that kept me entertained. I loved spending time with Duncan and Mallory in this quieter investigation. It was the perfect snack to hold me over until the next full-length novel. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
December 15, 2025
I always love spending time with Mallory and Duncan. In this novella they investigate a dognapping and Mallory learns a bit more about Catriona's background. They are also navigating the changed dynamic in their foursome, now that Hugh is courting Isla.
December 18, 2025
An interesting mystery taken on as a way to get information from Davina on Catriona's past.
I'm looking forward to the next book!
I'm looking forward to the next book!
December 2, 2025
I don't know why but I always love the novellas more than the full novels. we get a dognapping case (which I worried would be boring, but was a nice change of pace.) I had to look up an image of Greyfriar's Bobby because I wanted to make sure I was envisioning the dog correctly. AND I WAS.
we get a very much in love Isla and McCreadie. Finally received Catrionna's backstory 💔 and we STILL DONT GET Gray & Mallory accepting their feelings for each other. but a little girl is made VERY happy by the end. quick and sweet read! can't wait for the next one.
we get a very much in love Isla and McCreadie. Finally received Catrionna's backstory 💔 and we STILL DONT GET Gray & Mallory accepting their feelings for each other. but a little girl is made VERY happy by the end. quick and sweet read! can't wait for the next one.
December 18, 2025
I know people say you can skip the novellas… but don’t skip the novellas.
December 15, 2025
3.5 stars
Nice little novella. Wish Mallory and Gray would hurry up and get to it! They're taking slownburn to a whole other level...
Nice little novella. Wish Mallory and Gray would hurry up and get to it! They're taking slownburn to a whole other level...
December 30, 2025
We finally get to read a little bit of Catriona's story. There is a short case, looking for Bobby
January 12, 2026
Je n’ai pas été très emballée par cet opus.
J’espère mieux pour la suite.
J’espère mieux pour la suite.
December 25, 2025
This was so sweet! I hope this series never ends, honestly! 🐾
December 5, 2025
I always look forward to Kelley's annual novellas and this year's Rip through time's Kirkyards and kindness was another hit, giving me another chance to step into the Victorian world of Mallory and Duncan. In the previous couple of novels the detecting couple have been featured in penny dreadfuls and have become a bit famous...so when the famous Skye terrier Greyfriars Bobby disappears from the Kirkyard, they are approached to find him!
This is a quick and easy humourous read, with a bit of Scottish history and a chance to find out more about Catriona's past. It also has a sneak peek at the next novel, An ordinary sort of evil, out in May 2026...(but I didn't read it...I do have the ARC and am trying to wait until the new year to read it)
Totally recommend this series!!!!
This is a quick and easy humourous read, with a bit of Scottish history and a chance to find out more about Catriona's past. It also has a sneak peek at the next novel, An ordinary sort of evil, out in May 2026...(but I didn't read it...I do have the ARC and am trying to wait until the new year to read it)
Totally recommend this series!!!!
December 10, 2025
Very slow. Even the info on Catriona's background wasn't super fascinating imo. Definitely could have skipped this one and been just fine.
February 1, 2026
This was a super cute novella. I loved that the entire mystery revolved around Greyfriars Bobby – the dog who's the mascot of the graveyard. You get to see Mallory and Duncan work together to solve this mystery. You also get more information about Catriona’s past…I definitely feel bad for her and how she was raised (what a horrible mother) but that probably doesn’t excuse how she acted as an adult, although you can better understand how she got there. This also shows McCreadie & Isla continuing to court and less involved in the mystery solving, but they make it very clear they still want to be included lol. I’m excited for book 5 and hope to see some Duncan & Mallory progression as a couple.
December 4, 2025
There is something about this one that makes it come across as fun, despite times when it wasn't. The case was one that you kinda had to smile about, especially with who helped Mallory and Dr. Gray solve it and with the very end of the book. The not so fun part was Mallory learning more about the girl who's body she inhabits. You can tell she feels sorry for her and if it was in her power, would have tried to fix the past. It will be interesting to see how that affects her going forward.
March 6, 2026
I loved this little novella featuring Mallory and Dr. Gray! A quick bit of detective work regarding the dog-napping of a much loved fixture from Greyfriars Kirkyard indirectly helps Mallory learn more about Catriona. We also get further insight into Isla and Detective McCreadie's budding relationship as well as the companionship between Dr.Gray and Mallory.
December 20, 2025
This is a hilarious series, with a lot of lip twitching and eyebrow waggling, but this little novella addition was actually very enjoyable. Featuring Edinburgh's very own grey friars Bobby and some more insight into Catriona's past - a thoroughly pleasant read.
December 13, 2025
4.5 - love love loved! Short, sweet, cute, and just the right amount of emotional. 😭
December 16, 2025
I really love these novella in between the full length novels. I get to visit this wonderful world and characters again and we get more clues here and there! Love these!
December 28, 2025
4.5⭐️
Great storyline as usual and the tension between these two???? My god, I can't handle it!!
Great storyline as usual and the tension between these two???? My god, I can't handle it!!
December 29, 2025
Mallory and Gray take on the case of the missing Greyfriar's Bobby. Mallory also learns more about Catriona's past.
December 17, 2025
*Source* Amazon
*Genre* Mystery / Historical
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
Kelley Armstrong's Kirkyards & Kindness is a 158-page novella in the author's A Rip Through Time series, set after Death at a Highland Wedding. Mallory Atkinson continues to settle into 19th-century Scotland while keeping her secret of time travel, which only 3 people know. She remains stuck in the body of 19-year-old Catriona Mitchell, working for Dr. Duncan Gray, a pioneer in forensic science. To date, she remains unaware of Catriona’s past, though the criminally-minded Davina has much she could tell. This is where part of this story is driven.
*Full Review @ Gizmo's Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Mystery / Historical
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
Kelley Armstrong's Kirkyards & Kindness is a 158-page novella in the author's A Rip Through Time series, set after Death at a Highland Wedding. Mallory Atkinson continues to settle into 19th-century Scotland while keeping her secret of time travel, which only 3 people know. She remains stuck in the body of 19-year-old Catriona Mitchell, working for Dr. Duncan Gray, a pioneer in forensic science. To date, she remains unaware of Catriona’s past, though the criminally-minded Davina has much she could tell. This is where part of this story is driven.
*Full Review @ Gizmo's Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
December 17, 2025
My Mallory and Duncan Holiday fix!!!
Love this novella! Want more!
Love this novella! Want more!
January 30, 2026
This was such a cute little story. It made my heart happy. It also answered some questions I've been wondering about.
February 24, 2026
3.5 stars
December 21, 2025
Is this absolutely pointless, even for a novella? Yes. Can you skip this if you’re a series fan? Yes. Was I entertained? Also yes.
January 14, 2026
I really enjoy this series, and this short story was cute... but nothing special - a little flat, even. We get to find out Caitriona's backstory, which is interesting, but the story itself isn't much more than stage directions of Caitriona/Mallory and Duncan going places to figure out what happened to Greyfriars's Bobby. We do get some warm fuzzies from the characters, which is always nice, but also some of Mallory's didactic scolding of Victorians about their social evils.
That said, this was an okay diversion until the next full-length novel comes out in May. I'm hoping that one is good!
That said, this was an okay diversion until the next full-length novel comes out in May. I'm hoping that one is good!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews