Death Watch Cottage: a tense, new crime thriller forensics mystery for 2026 for fans of Ann Cleeves

by T. Orr Munro

'Entertaining, twisty read, steeped in authenticity' Amy JordanA gripping Devon mystery for fans of LJ Ross, Ann Cleeves and Elly Griffiths.

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Assume nothing

The body of Leo Hawkins is found in a Devon holiday cottage, the cause of death carbon monoxide poisoning. Was this a tragic accident or something more sinister? CSI Ally Dymond will follow the evidence wherever it leads.

Believe no-one

Leo’s wife gives an account of his final hours, but something isn’t adding up. Graffiti left by an anti-tourist group is discovered nearby. The only consistent thread in the investigation is that no one is telling the truth.

Challenge everything

When a second body turns up, Ally and the murder team must examine everything they thought they knew, untangling a web of suspects to get to the truth. But can they catch the killer before they strike again?

Set against the dramatic backdrop of the idyllic Devon coast, Death Watch Cottage is a standalone crime novel in the CSI Ally Dymond series.

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'A marvelously multi-layered and satisfying read' Faith Martin

'Tense and twisty with red herrings aplenty and a cast of convincing characters' Liz Mistry

‘I thoroughly enjoyed the read… twists and turns along with believable characters… good choice for crime readers’ Patricia Gibney

READERS LOVE Death Watch Cottage

'A master of misdirection'

'Did not want to put it down'

'It's got the additional thrill of having a CSI as the lead character which, if you're into forensics, gives an added dimension to the investigation'

'Tense, twisty, atmospheric… with character depth and intricate plotting'

'Lots of guessing and twists and turns, of course all tying together with a solid resolution'

429 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 26, 2026

Reviews

[Kevin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brilliant series which keeps getting better and better ( although I'm not sure how many more murders can happen in this small place)

[Kath · Rating 5 out of 5]

For some reason I can't see this as being billed as part of the CSI Ally Dymond series. Following on from, and referring back to Breakneck Point, Slaughterhouse Farm, and Liars Island. All of which are cracking books so, if I was you, I'd read them first, in order.
So, in this her (now established) fourth outing, we start with Ally attending a town meeting about incomers. which is rudely interrupted by a young man claiming he has found a dead body. Ally isn't on duty but races to the cottage in which the body lies, calls it in and starts the process. Long story short and the cause of death turns out to be CO poisoning. But is it accidental, or was it murder? Ally then throws herself into the investigation, at the same time as also trying to find somewhere to live, her holiday park home being sold by the owner, ironically to a property developer. Coincidentally, also the owner of the cottage in which the death took place. It's all a bit interconnected and convoluted and small town/village, delightfully so.
Ally is also, as usual, crossing swords with her superior, and has her daughter, and ex, to contend with. And then there's her partner's financial situation. A lot on her plate!
I have read and loved all the previous books in this series, and I loved this one too. Ally is a great character and the stories the author creates for her are well plotted and said plot ably executed, containing a cracking supporting cast of other characters. There are side plots included along the way, outwith the main murder, which may or may not be related, completely or tangentially, and then the author throws in a second murder to really chivvy them along!
With twists and turns aplenty, my attention was well and truly held captive all the way through, with the book spitting me out at the end shocked but wholly satisfied. And also, if I'm honest, gagging to find out what the author has in store for Ally for next time! My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.

[Loraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Tina and NetGalley for allowing me to read Death Watch Cottage before the publication date.
Tina is a master of misdirection, creating multiple interacting threads, each introducing a possible motive for murder. It is an easy yet interesting read which encourages the reader to consider what, particularly since the pandemic, is an increasing concern in many areas.

In the small Devon community, many of the residents are related, either by blood or marriage.
The hospitality industry is the main source of income and it is common practice for residents to fill more than one role to make ends meet.

The book opens with an intriguing prologue, narrated by an unknown character voicing their thoughts on blow ins or incomers to Maidcombe. This creates a hook which keeps the reader returning to their words throughout the book.
The introduction of a second unnamed character (shudder) in the first chapter, someone who is self centred and takes no responsibility for his own actions, leaves the reader to ponder his role in the story.

CSI Ally Dymond is off duty and attending a community meeting where tensions rise about the increase in second homes and holiday lets. This is causing problems for local residents to find affordable housing, a problem which Ally is experiencing as the Seven Hills holiday park which has given her sanctuary for 11 years, is being sold to a developer.

A teenager dashes into the meeting and tells them that he found a dead body in a holiday let.
The property is owned by entrepreneur and property developer, Rex Sampford, who tells them that there should not have been anyone in the cottage that week.
Until such times as the cause of death can be determined, Ally protects the scene. Unfortunately, Gordon Gaits is the duty inspector who arrives and demands access to the body. Ally and Gaits have crossed swords before as he is forensically inept. She knows that her refusal to give Gaits access will have repercussions.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Death Watch Cottage is a gripping mystery that blends atmosphere, tension, and clever plotting into a truly satisfying read. Set against the rugged beauty of the Devon coast, the novel begins with the discovery of Leo Hawkins’ body in a holiday cottage—apparently a victim of carbon monoxide poisoning. But as CSI Ally Dymond digs deeper, it becomes clear that nothing about this case is straightforward.

What makes the story so compelling is its constant invitation to question everything. Leo’s wife’s account doesn’t quite add up, graffiti from an anti-tourist group muddies the waters, and soon a second body forces Ally and her team to untangle a web of lies and half-truths. Munro’s writing keeps the reader guessing, layering suspense with red herrings and unexpected turns.

Ally Dymond herself is a strong, engaging lead—methodical, determined, and willing to challenge assumptions even when the truth seems elusive. The Devon setting adds richness to the narrative, its idyllic backdrop contrasting sharply with the darkness of the crimes unfolding.

Death Watch Cottage is a multi-layered mystery that fans of LJ Ross, Ann Cleeves, and Elly Griffiths will relish. It’s tense, twisty, and atmospheric, with a satisfying blend of character depth and intricate plotting. A perfect read for anyone who loves crime fiction that keeps you second-guessing until the very end.

with thanks to T Orr Munro, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC

[Louise Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

ASSUME NOTHING

The body of Leo Hawkins is found in a Devon holiday cottage, the cause of death, carbon monoxide poisoning. Was this a tragic accident or something more sinister. CSI Ally Dymond will follow the evidence wherever it leads.

BELIEVE NO ONE

Leo's wife gives an account of his final hours, but something isn't adding up. Graffiti left by an anti-terrorist group is discovered nearby. The only consistent thread in the investigation is that no one is telling the truth.

CHALLENGE EVERYTHING

When a second body turns up, Allly the murder team must examine everything they thought they knew, untangling a web of suspects to get to the truth. But can they catch a killer before he strikes again?

There were multiple threads leading to possible motives for murder. This is a multi-layered, gripping and well-written story. It has also been cleverly crafted. I was second guessing everything. I like Ally Dymond, she's such a strong character. With plenty of twists, and the tension ramping up, I couldn't get through this book fast enough. The story is so descriptively written that it made me want to visit Devon. This is a fast-paced read.

Published 26th March 2026

I would like to thank #NetGalley #HQ and the author #TOrrMunro for my ARC of #DeathWatchCottage in exchange for an honest review.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Death Watch Cottage is an atmospheric murder mystery that kept me engaged from start to finish. This was my first book in the Ally Dymond series, and while it works well as a standalone, I did feel it could have benefited from a bit more backstory to give extra depth to the characters and their relationships.

The story has plenty of twists, tension, and overlapping threads that keep you guessing as every clue could point in several directions. Ally is an interesting protagonist. She’s smart, flawed, and determined, with real emotional weight behind her personal struggles — especially her housing situation and the professional scrutiny she’s under. Those elements don’t distract from the investigation; they actually make the story feel grounded and human.

The setting is another highlight. Orr Munro brings Devon to life in a way that feels atmospheric without ever slowing the pace. The book is packed with tension, but it’s also incredibly readable — clear, tightly written, and easy to sink into.

Overall, a very enjoyable and well-paced crime read, and I’m definitely going back to start the earlier books in the series — and I’ll be watching for whatever comes next.

Thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy in return for an honest review.

[Diane Elizabeth Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Utterly Captivating! ​
Tina Orr Munro delivers a gripping, atmospheric mystery that balances a high-stakes investigation with the poignant reality of a vanishing village way of life. ​
In "Death Watch Cottage" we return to the stunning Devon landscape for another addictive, multi-layered mystery.
A heated local meeting is disrupted when a teenager discovers a corpse, sparking a narrative filled with clever twists and red herrings.
Beyond the crime, Orr sensitively explores the friction of village life, from the isolation of someone being different to the heartbreak of locals losing their heritage and community spirit to second-home buyers. ​
At the heart is our protagonist, CSI Ally Dymond, whose professional pride is as sharp as her intuition. Despite facing personal upheaval, including a threat to her career and her own home, Ally's relentless pursuit of the truth is inspiring, with her meticulous work ethic and her empathy shining throughout the book.
With a cast of rich supporting characters and an ending tied up as neatly as a ring box wrapped in a bow, this is a brilliant read. I cant wait for the next one!
My thanks to Netgalley and HQ for the ARC. This is my own opinion.

[Sandie McCormack · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a gripping and cleverly plotted crime thriller that kept me guessing all the way through. What first appears to be a tragic accident quickly turns into something much darker, and I was pulled straight into the mystery surrounding Leo Hawkins’ death in the Devon holiday cottage.

I really enjoyed following CSI Ally Dymond as she carefully pieces together the evidence. Every time I thought I had worked out what was going on, another twist or hidden secret appeared. The story does a great job of showing how no one can truly be trusted, with each character seeming to hide something.

The tension builds even more when another body is discovered, raising the stakes and making the investigation even more complex. I liked how the author slowly unravels the web of lies, local tensions and loyalties, keeping the reader questioning everything along with Ally.

Overall, this was a fast paced crime story plenty of twists and a strong investigative lead. If you enjoy crime stories full of secrets, suspects and unexpected turns, this is definitely one i would recommend.

Thank you to Netgalley and HarperCollins Publishers for an ARC

[Alyson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read several of this series about Ally Dymond, a CSI in major crimes in Devon. In this book she is called to a suspicious death at Death Watch Cottage, and has to investigate while dealing with having to find somewhere new to live with her daughter because second homes have pushed the locals out of the area. She is also accused of cross contaminating crime scenes when her DNA is discovered at a site she was not present at, so she is in danger of losing her job too.
Ally is a strong character, not afraid to speak her mind to her superiors if she believes she is in the right. She has a lot going on in this novel - not all related to the crime - and it is somewhat of a balancing act for her.
With plenty of twists and several red herrings all of Ally's problems are successfully sorted by the end of the novel giving a satisfying read.
With thanks to the author, Netgalley, and HQ Stories at Harper Collins for an early copy in return for an honest review.

[beckys_book_blog · Rating 3 out of 5]

Set on the Devon coast, this story begins dramatically with the death of Leo Hawkins in a holiday cottage, initially ruled as carbon monoxide poisoning.
It quickly becomes clear there’s something far more sinister going on...the vent was blocked and the holiday cottage had not been rented out!
With conflicting stories, an anti-tourist group in the mix, and secrets everywhere, CSI Ally Dymond is left questioning everything!

I really enjoyed the isolated village setting and the constant sense that no one could be trusted. The twists kept coming, especially once a second body turns up, and I liked how the investigation unraveled layer by layer.

For me, parts felt a little slow in places, and I would have liked more depth from some of the characters. But overall, it’s a solid, atmospheric crime read with plenty of intrigue and suspicion to keep you hooked. This is the fourth in the series although it can easily be read as a stand-alone.

[Steve Capel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second novel that I read from this series and it is equally as good as if not better . Ally Dymond works as a CSI in major crimes in Devon. She is called to death in a holiday let cottage which turns out to be suspicious. At the same time she is trying to find a new home for herself and her teenage daughter as the site where she lives is being sold.T add more complication her DNA is found at another teams crime scene giving rise to accusations of careless work. And her boyfriend Liam is having to leave the area for work.Juggling all these things Ally is still able to find the evidence required to break open a complicated crime. This is a well written novel which I can recommend to readers of British crime

[Julie Lacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good crime thriller centred around a small coastal village.
When a man’s body is found in a holiday cottage CSI Ally Dymond and her colleague Jake are asked to investigate. Initially it looks like the man suffered a heart attack, but Ally soon discovers his death was suspicious.
Ally works well with most of the Detectives but there’s one who she has no time for, and the feeling is mutual.
Ally needs to find a new home for her and her daughter but there’s none available within their price range, and with pressures from her superiors, Ally begins to worry about her future.
There’s quite a lot going on in this book and despite a bit of a lull in the middle I enjoyed this book.
Thanks to HQ for the opportunity to read this book.

[Jane Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in atmospheric North Devon, this book in the CSI Ally Dymond series explores contemporary issues in small communities through its relatable characters. An unexpected death occurs in a holiday cottage, and the multi-layered plot reveals many possible causes, each with plausible suspects. Ally grapples with personal issues and a threat to her career as she attempts to piece together the evidential clues, often more effectively than the detective team. I appreciated the authenticity in both the investigative setting and the protagonists' personal lives. It has an engagingly complex narrative, an absorbing intensity and an evocative setting.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

[Miki Jacobs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ally is with her boyfriend Liam at a meeting about the village school closure when someone rushes in saying that there is a body in Death Watch Cottage. At first it looks like an accident, but on further investigation it's deemed to be a murder. The police start investigating and once the dead man is identified there are lots of suspects and motives.
In the meantime Ally has problems of her own. The holiday park owned by her friend Penny is being sold and she needs to find herself and her daughter a new home as soon as possible. Added to that someone funky is going on at work.......
I forgot how much I love this authors books!

[K · Rating 4 out of 5]

CSI Ally Dymond is on scene when the body of a man is found in a holiday cottage, looks like accidental death from CO2 poisoning, until Ally and Jake discover the vent had been deliberately blocked.
Ally is also facing becoming homeless along with her daughter Megan, as the holiday park she lives on is being sold. Then her DNA turns up at a crime scene she was nowhere near. Stressed with trying to find a home to rent, clear her name and undertake her work, her relationship with Liam stumbles.
A very good book set in Cornwall with several strands going at once and an unexpected ending.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc

[Sarah Robinson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another Ally Dymond story and once again an engaging tale. There were some great twists and turns in this plot line and the ending was the biggest of them. All through the novel the author used misdirection to lead the reader to wrong conclusions before an ending that was ultimately satisfying. My biggest issue with the edition I read was the appalling editing - lots of mistakes which meant it wasn’t the best reading experience and it’s also written in the present tense which felt awkward and clunky.

[Zoe E · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first book by this author, and whilst it is part of the same Detective series as her previous books. It absolutely can be read as a standalone. I do have some of her other books loaded on my kindle.

I was gripped from the beginning with a death happening within the first few chapters.
The chapters were short, and there were lots of twists along the way. I liked the way in ended.
I thought that the writing was great, and the character's were interesting. With their own personal lives coming through throughout the story.

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it didn’t disappoint. It’s part of a series but can easily be read as a standalone.

CSI Ally Dymond is called when the body of Leo Hawkins is found in a holiday cottage. Initially, it looks like a heart attack but it turns out to be carbon monoxide poisoning. Then the owner of the cottage informs them that there was no booking – Leo shouldn’t have been there. Was the death natural causes or murder?

A gripping read which I really enjoyed.

Thank you to NetGalley and HQ Books for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.

[Sarah B · Rating 5 out of 5]

A welcome return of CSI Ally Dymond, Megan, Liam and Penning set in the wonderful North Devon. When the body of Leo Hawkins is found in a holiday cottage and his death is determined to be by Carbon Dioxide poisoning. This leads Ally, Jake, DI Harriot Moore and the team to investigate the reasons and how does it connect to mysterious graffiti and a protest group. But, a second body is discovered and the team must look behind the secrets and lies of potential suspects within the village. It was atmospheric, full of twists and turns, gripping, and suspenseful with a surprising conclusion.

[Liz Mistry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tense and twisty with red herrings aplenty and a cast of convincing characters. I loved it!
Set in a coastal are in North Devon, Death Watch Cottage gives an insight into small communities and how they react when things go wrong. Plus it's got the additional thrill of having a CSI as the lead character which , if you're into forensics, gives an added dimension to the investigation. Looking forward to spending more time with Ally and the team

[Beachcomber · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 stars rounded up. This was great, lots of guessing and twists and turns, of course all tying together with a solid resolution. And I love how it’s set up for the next book, for Ally, Liam and Penny. Ally is still quite prickly, but she seems to be growing and changing slightly, maybe as her life gets more on track. I really enjoyed this and can’t wait for book 5.

I received a free ARC copy of this via NetGalley and the publishers in return for an unbiased review.

[Martha Brindley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very good series which just keeps improving with every read. CSI Ally Drimmond is an interesting, strong character and the Devon landscape is filled with atmosphere in this multi layered read filled with tension and twists. The plotting is quite intricate, with some red herrings sprinkled in to keep you guessing and interested right until the unexpected ending. Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.

[Chrissie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in North Devon Aly Diamond is a CSI Officer working for the Police .A body is found in Death Watch Cottage and Aly is determined to find the truth about what happened .Fast paced and atmospheric with excellent characters another page turner with a very unexpected ending. Thank you to NetGalley for my ARC.

[Claire · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really wanted to love this novel but it just didn’t hit the mark for me. The pacing was too slow and it seemed overly long winded to even get to any kind of conclusion. I didn’t find the plot engaging so sadly it’s a no from me. I’m well aware I’m in the minority with these thoughts but you can’t love every book. Thank you to NetGalley, HQ and the author for the chance to review.

[Ruth Matheson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 4 in this series and a story which leads you to and fro with the investigation - a bit like the tide in the town! A murder or two to keep you guessing plus the chaos which is Ally's public and private life. Good page turning story and with an OMG ending as well.

Thanks to Netgalley / HQ for the ARC to review.

[Becki Sims · Rating 4 out of 5]

Intriguing and clever! This was the first book I've read from this author, but I'll definitely be reading others. I really liked Ally, she's smart and good at what she does. The characters were believable and the story had enough twists to keep me interested.

Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for gifting me this arc in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.

[CJ Eve · Rating 4 out of 5]

CSI Ally Dymond returns after the discovery of a body in a local holiday cottage, could carbon monoxide poisoning be the culprit or is there more to this death than meets the eye.

I have read this series since the beginning and I enjoy the setting, characters and plots that the author brings to life through their writing.

Book four is another stellar offering in the series.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of twists and turns in this book. All centres on a local rich developer who wants to to build up the sleepy village in Devon, until two murders the book will keep you guessing all the way to the end.

Really enjoyable read thank you NetGalley for the early release

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoy this series and this one was so good.

I love reading a different perspective to the usual police procedural but the plot is still gripping.

I flew through this in two sittings as I needed to know what happened.

I won't hesitate to recommend this great series any chance I get.

[Rose Place · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely hooked from start to finish. Really enjoyed the how the second home owner and local community themes were explored. Ally, as always, is a flawed but driven and smart CSI. She’s such a fantastic character, and I loved the ending she was given.

P.s. love you always Norm x