What do you think?
Rate this book
Death Watch Cottage: an unputdownable new psychological suspense crime thriller for 2026
Not yet published
Expected 26 Mar 26'Entertaining, twisty read, steeped in authenticity' Amy JordanA gripping Devon mystery for fans of LJ Ross, Ann Cleeves and Elly Griffiths.
***************
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.
***************
'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'
***************
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.
***************
'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'
Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 26, 2026
22 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Brilliant series which keeps getting better and better ( although I'm not sure how many more murders can happen in this small place)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
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
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
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
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.
October 18, 2025
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
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
December 21, 2025
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.
I received a free ARC copy of this via NetGalley and the publishers in return for an unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
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.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
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
Really enjoyable read thank you NetGalley for the early release
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews