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Detective Inspector McQueen #1
Death in Valletta
An Edinburgh police detective is summoned to the island of Malta, in this gripping and atmospheric murder mystery set in the Victorian era.
It is the summer of 1880, and DI Sam McQueen has been called away from the gray, damp streets of Edinburgh to investigate a case on the oppressively hot Mediterranean island of Malta. The local police chief is distinctly unwelcoming toward the interloper—but has no choice in the matter, since Admiral Collingwood's wealthy widow insists that her husband's fatal fall from the roof of their villa was no accident.
Fortunately, McQueen gets help from a police physician and the resourceful daughter of a newspaper editor—support he will need as he tangles with local aristocrats, unearths secrets and conspiracies, and is faced with more suspicious deaths that may or may not be connected to the late admiral ...
It is the summer of 1880, and DI Sam McQueen has been called away from the gray, damp streets of Edinburgh to investigate a case on the oppressively hot Mediterranean island of Malta. The local police chief is distinctly unwelcoming toward the interloper—but has no choice in the matter, since Admiral Collingwood's wealthy widow insists that her husband's fatal fall from the roof of their villa was no accident.
Fortunately, McQueen gets help from a police physician and the resourceful daughter of a newspaper editor—support he will need as he tangles with local aristocrats, unearths secrets and conspiracies, and is faced with more suspicious deaths that may or may not be connected to the late admiral ...
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First published April 15, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
July 27, 2024
"It was bright and hot, and he could hardly see against the glare as he finally stepped back onto solid ground. Immediately, his senses were assaulted by the noise of the teeming harbour and the stench of seawater, ordure and rotten food."
"‘Detective Inspector Sam McQueen. Here to see the governor.’"
"What have they told you, about why we need you here?’ ‘Lord Collingwood’s death. Someone to investigate, find out what happened.’ ‘Absolutely. Lady Collingwood’s got a real bee in her bonnet,’ Carstairs said. ‘She’s convinced the admiral was murdered. Much easier for everyone if he wasn’t. The police are absolutely sure that it was an accident.’"
"‘Here’s the report from the police. You should find everything here.’ He started to read it out. ‘“Late night, towards the end of a soirée, Lord Collingwood goes to the roof for a smoke. The housekeeper hears a scream, body’s then found on the terrace below, with a fractured skull. No sign of a struggle.” ‘According to them, he had leaned too far over, under the influence of too much wine and port. Head smashed in, poor devil.’"
"‘Be careful, Mister Policeman. Do not ask too many questions. Somebody won’t like it.’ ‘Oh, aye?’ McQueen said. ‘Who?’ ‘You will find out.’"
"He snapped his pocketbook closed. The reputation of the Edinburgh Police rested with him. He looked forward to the challenge."
Sam McQueen is the classic “fish out of water.” For too long during the summer heat, he tries to work out who stood to gain by Lord Collingswood’s death by going around in his Scottish woolens. Taylor avoids the formulaic by providing a nice amount of detail about the Maltese during this 19th century period of British occupation.
"Malta was not proving to be the quiet island paradise he had been expecting. The anger felt by the Maltese people against the colonial government was palpable. He had also seen the Army ready to suppress the protesters. Would they have fired on them? Unlikely, but there was always the possibility. Instinctively, he did not want to ally himself with British imperialist control, but he could not pretend to know or understand the Maltese people yet. It was an uncomfortable position to be in."
McQueen must deal with multiple levels of society and hierarchy as well as the three languages used by the citizens of Valletta. As a police procedural, we have the common tropes of: fear of police; corruption; privilege and damaged souls. There is a good amount of the book taken up with describing various aspects of Maltese life (which I really enjoyed) and it is only in the last section that it turns into a thriller. We get to know a fair amount about McQueen, his past, and his approach to life.
Not a bad start for what seems to be a series.
"‘Detective Inspector Sam McQueen. Here to see the governor.’"
"What have they told you, about why we need you here?’ ‘Lord Collingwood’s death. Someone to investigate, find out what happened.’ ‘Absolutely. Lady Collingwood’s got a real bee in her bonnet,’ Carstairs said. ‘She’s convinced the admiral was murdered. Much easier for everyone if he wasn’t. The police are absolutely sure that it was an accident.’"
"‘Here’s the report from the police. You should find everything here.’ He started to read it out. ‘“Late night, towards the end of a soirée, Lord Collingwood goes to the roof for a smoke. The housekeeper hears a scream, body’s then found on the terrace below, with a fractured skull. No sign of a struggle.” ‘According to them, he had leaned too far over, under the influence of too much wine and port. Head smashed in, poor devil.’"
"‘Be careful, Mister Policeman. Do not ask too many questions. Somebody won’t like it.’ ‘Oh, aye?’ McQueen said. ‘Who?’ ‘You will find out.’"
"He snapped his pocketbook closed. The reputation of the Edinburgh Police rested with him. He looked forward to the challenge."
Sam McQueen is the classic “fish out of water.” For too long during the summer heat, he tries to work out who stood to gain by Lord Collingswood’s death by going around in his Scottish woolens. Taylor avoids the formulaic by providing a nice amount of detail about the Maltese during this 19th century period of British occupation.
"Malta was not proving to be the quiet island paradise he had been expecting. The anger felt by the Maltese people against the colonial government was palpable. He had also seen the Army ready to suppress the protesters. Would they have fired on them? Unlikely, but there was always the possibility. Instinctively, he did not want to ally himself with British imperialist control, but he could not pretend to know or understand the Maltese people yet. It was an uncomfortable position to be in."
McQueen must deal with multiple levels of society and hierarchy as well as the three languages used by the citizens of Valletta. As a police procedural, we have the common tropes of: fear of police; corruption; privilege and damaged souls. There is a good amount of the book taken up with describing various aspects of Maltese life (which I really enjoyed) and it is only in the last section that it turns into a thriller. We get to know a fair amount about McQueen, his past, and his approach to life.
Not a bad start for what seems to be a series.
October 17, 2024
This gave me historical death in paradise DI Poole vibes. McQueen is definitely out of his comfort zone working in the Maltese heat while wearing a wool suit and getting to grips with the locals! But that's where the similarity ends as this tale is full of corruption, power, and political issues. Although it does have some darkly humorous moments.
I really enjoyed the authors writing style and got emersed into the story very quickly. It is also nicely paced with a build-up to the action with lots of twists in the case. I didn't feel that it was obvious or predictable, and that kept me invested. McQueen's task is difficulty as everyone is seemingly uncooperative and hostile, thwarting his attempts to get justice.
McQueen is a character of integrity, and this is in contrast with Borg's despicable ways. I liked the dynamics between them and wanted to see his Borg's downfall!
The setting is described so well that I felt I was walking the narrow streets and smelling the sea air. The author highlights issues of British Colonialism, political instability, poverty, health, greed, power, and corruption, and I thought this was done well as it added interest to the murder mystery.
I will definitely continue with the series to see what McQueen gets up to next! With thanks to the author, Love Book Tours and Bloodhound Books, for providing a copy of the book. This is my honest review, which I'm leaving voluntarily.
I really enjoyed the authors writing style and got emersed into the story very quickly. It is also nicely paced with a build-up to the action with lots of twists in the case. I didn't feel that it was obvious or predictable, and that kept me invested. McQueen's task is difficulty as everyone is seemingly uncooperative and hostile, thwarting his attempts to get justice.
McQueen is a character of integrity, and this is in contrast with Borg's despicable ways. I liked the dynamics between them and wanted to see his Borg's downfall!
The setting is described so well that I felt I was walking the narrow streets and smelling the sea air. The author highlights issues of British Colonialism, political instability, poverty, health, greed, power, and corruption, and I thought this was done well as it added interest to the murder mystery.
I will definitely continue with the series to see what McQueen gets up to next! With thanks to the author, Love Book Tours and Bloodhound Books, for providing a copy of the book. This is my honest review, which I'm leaving voluntarily.
August 23, 2024
I am not normally a fan of detective novels as I find the inevitable stereotypes a bit bland, however I was enticed to read this book as it is the debut novel of a local author, and it has an historical setting which adds a bit of interest.
I was pleasantly surprised and enjoyed how the story developed- I look forward to reading the next instalment.
I was pleasantly surprised and enjoyed how the story developed- I look forward to reading the next instalment.
April 16, 2024
I love a good murder mystery, this story follows DI Sam McQueen who was called to Malta from Edinburgh to investigate the death of Admiral Collingwood. I loved the detail about the 19th Century and all the issues that they had to deal with . Was such an amazing read!
January 31, 2025
A change of pace time period (late 1800s), with a Scottish detective in Malta?! Good story. This appears to be the first in what will be a series. Looking forward to the next one.
May 30, 2026
I rounded it up to a 4 because it was enjoyable to listen to, and I learned some interesting things about Malta. I knew nothing about it being a British colony. I liked the characters too.
May 2, 2024
I received this book for free from Bloodhound Books.
Historical fiction and mystery are two of my favorite genres and this book was a marvelous blend of both.
I was very absorbed and was interested in learning some history too.
The ending seems to leave room for a series. If that does happen, I will not hesitate to pick up the next book in the series.
Historical fiction and mystery are two of my favorite genres and this book was a marvelous blend of both.
I was very absorbed and was interested in learning some history too.
The ending seems to leave room for a series. If that does happen, I will not hesitate to pick up the next book in the series.
November 13, 2025
Wasn't sure that this was going to be my thing. It's not the sort of genre that I usually go for and thought I might struggle.
I was however, completely wrong.
I was so captivated by the story and the setting (I now really want to visit Malta).
Lynne's writing is so accessible and fun. The characters are all really well fleshed out and the story never has a dull moment.
This story manages to avoid the cliche pitfalls of most whodunnits and brings something original with it.
Hope we get a sequel!
I was however, completely wrong.
I was so captivated by the story and the setting (I now really want to visit Malta).
Lynne's writing is so accessible and fun. The characters are all really well fleshed out and the story never has a dull moment.
This story manages to avoid the cliche pitfalls of most whodunnits and brings something original with it.
Hope we get a sequel!
October 19, 2024
Having spent several happy holidays on the island of Malta (albeit many moons ago), I was immediately taken by the opportunity to visit vicariously through the pages if Lynne Marie Taylor’s debut novel Death in Valletta.
Although aware of the island’s rich history, I was largely unfamiliar with the backdrop to the novel which takes place in the summer of 1880 and sees gruff Edinburgh detective Sam McQueen called to investigate the death of former Commander-in-Chief Admiral Lord Collingwood. Although written off by the Maltese force as a tragic accident, McQueen soon realises that the much-admired Collingwood had plenty of enemies. Joining forced with police physician Dr Vittorio Bonnici, McQueen begins to investigate the truth behind the late admiral’s seemingly spotless and it isn’t long before the two men uncover secrets, conspiracies, and more suspicious deaths.
As the first in what promises to be a series featuring McQueen (and, hopefully, Bonnici who makes an affable foil to the detective’s somewhat strident personality), Death in Valetta does a good job of establishing both its world and its characters. Although clearly well-researched, Lynne Marie Taylor does an excellent job of introducing the various political factions and tensions that inform the novel’s colonial backdrop without this ever detracting from the progression of the central plot.
For all that McQueen is, initially at least, the stereotypical gruff Scottish detective (complete with troubled marriage, difficult family relationships, and a complete lack of respect for authority figures), his character does develop into a more nuanced and complicated figure over the course of the book and the novel leaves him in an interesting position for any sequel. His ally, the affable and quick-witted Dr Vittorio Bonnici, makes for a nice counterpoint, utilising science and reason to help the case where McQueen prefers ‘boots-on-the-ground’ detective work. The pair are joined in their sleuthing by local girl Maria whose bright and sunny personality – and complete lack of training – make her an equally good foil to the older, more cynical Sam.
Easy-to-read and with a well-plotted central mystery, Death in Valletta is a promising start to a new historical crime fiction series. The unique setting and well-rounded cast of characters helps it to stand out in amidst a crowded genre and will, hopefully, secure McQueen and Co plenty of fans amongst readers. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the novel and would happily recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical detective fiction.
NB: This review also appears on my blog at https://theshelfofunreadbooks.wordpre... as part of the blog tour for the book. My thanks go to the publisher for providing a copy of the book in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Although aware of the island’s rich history, I was largely unfamiliar with the backdrop to the novel which takes place in the summer of 1880 and sees gruff Edinburgh detective Sam McQueen called to investigate the death of former Commander-in-Chief Admiral Lord Collingwood. Although written off by the Maltese force as a tragic accident, McQueen soon realises that the much-admired Collingwood had plenty of enemies. Joining forced with police physician Dr Vittorio Bonnici, McQueen begins to investigate the truth behind the late admiral’s seemingly spotless and it isn’t long before the two men uncover secrets, conspiracies, and more suspicious deaths.
As the first in what promises to be a series featuring McQueen (and, hopefully, Bonnici who makes an affable foil to the detective’s somewhat strident personality), Death in Valetta does a good job of establishing both its world and its characters. Although clearly well-researched, Lynne Marie Taylor does an excellent job of introducing the various political factions and tensions that inform the novel’s colonial backdrop without this ever detracting from the progression of the central plot.
For all that McQueen is, initially at least, the stereotypical gruff Scottish detective (complete with troubled marriage, difficult family relationships, and a complete lack of respect for authority figures), his character does develop into a more nuanced and complicated figure over the course of the book and the novel leaves him in an interesting position for any sequel. His ally, the affable and quick-witted Dr Vittorio Bonnici, makes for a nice counterpoint, utilising science and reason to help the case where McQueen prefers ‘boots-on-the-ground’ detective work. The pair are joined in their sleuthing by local girl Maria whose bright and sunny personality – and complete lack of training – make her an equally good foil to the older, more cynical Sam.
Easy-to-read and with a well-plotted central mystery, Death in Valletta is a promising start to a new historical crime fiction series. The unique setting and well-rounded cast of characters helps it to stand out in amidst a crowded genre and will, hopefully, secure McQueen and Co plenty of fans amongst readers. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the novel and would happily recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical detective fiction.
NB: This review also appears on my blog at https://theshelfofunreadbooks.wordpre... as part of the blog tour for the book. My thanks go to the publisher for providing a copy of the book in return for an honest and unbiased review.
October 15, 2024
Synopsis:
Edinburgh detective Sam McQueen is sent to Malta to investigate the death of a high profile British admiral. Sam arrives in Valetta battling his own demons. In the sweltering Maltese heat Sam has to combat corruption, get used to a new place and culture to uncover the truth behind a murder. When one murder becomes two the stakes are high and Sam has to outwit the killer in every twist and turn with the help of a feisty heroine and an idealistic police doctor.
Review:
One of the reasons I am drawn to historical murder mysteries is I love reading about a different time and place and I especially enjoy any political or social tension of the period to play into the story. Having visited Malta a couple of years ago it was really interesting for me to read descriptions of Valetta and Citta Vechhia (Mdina) and get a feel of what the places were like in 1880.
Death in Valetta is a good first book in the series as it nicely sets up the characters and setting. The novel is set in an interesting period on Malta's history, as such I enjoyed reading about the different political movements and sentiments towards the colonial government. The mystery builds on intricately in this book. I am hoping the political intrigue will continue in the next book of the series.
I enjoyed reading this book and I am hoping to add this series to my list of historical mysteries to follow.
Tropes and traits:
- Multiple POVs
- Historical fiction
- Murder mystery
- Political intrigue
- Rebellious heroine
- Troubled detective
Thank you to Love Books Tours, Bloodhound books and Lynn Marie Taylor for my review copy.
Edinburgh detective Sam McQueen is sent to Malta to investigate the death of a high profile British admiral. Sam arrives in Valetta battling his own demons. In the sweltering Maltese heat Sam has to combat corruption, get used to a new place and culture to uncover the truth behind a murder. When one murder becomes two the stakes are high and Sam has to outwit the killer in every twist and turn with the help of a feisty heroine and an idealistic police doctor.
Review:
One of the reasons I am drawn to historical murder mysteries is I love reading about a different time and place and I especially enjoy any political or social tension of the period to play into the story. Having visited Malta a couple of years ago it was really interesting for me to read descriptions of Valetta and Citta Vechhia (Mdina) and get a feel of what the places were like in 1880.
Death in Valetta is a good first book in the series as it nicely sets up the characters and setting. The novel is set in an interesting period on Malta's history, as such I enjoyed reading about the different political movements and sentiments towards the colonial government. The mystery builds on intricately in this book. I am hoping the political intrigue will continue in the next book of the series.
I enjoyed reading this book and I am hoping to add this series to my list of historical mysteries to follow.
Tropes and traits:
- Multiple POVs
- Historical fiction
- Murder mystery
- Political intrigue
- Rebellious heroine
- Troubled detective
Thank you to Love Books Tours, Bloodhound books and Lynn Marie Taylor for my review copy.
October 11, 2024
Historical mystery with a fresh and lively setting
I had a great time getting to know Malta with Sam McQueen.
The setting on Malta is unusual and intriguing and the mystery is well put together and well written with vivid, relevant descriptions. I liked Dr Bonici's mission to improve living conditions for his patients; and I enjoyed Maria's gossipy chatter and her investigations.
The interfaces between various social groupings make for an interesting read, too, for example, the military and civilians; the pro-independence groups and the British; and the various social classes.
McQueen is well handled -- blunt and grumpy and perpetually uncomfortable in the heat. I liked how his personal problems back home nudged into the mystery. I would enjoy another book with him.
I had a great time getting to know Malta with Sam McQueen.
The setting on Malta is unusual and intriguing and the mystery is well put together and well written with vivid, relevant descriptions. I liked Dr Bonici's mission to improve living conditions for his patients; and I enjoyed Maria's gossipy chatter and her investigations.
The interfaces between various social groupings make for an interesting read, too, for example, the military and civilians; the pro-independence groups and the British; and the various social classes.
McQueen is well handled -- blunt and grumpy and perpetually uncomfortable in the heat. I liked how his personal problems back home nudged into the mystery. I would enjoy another book with him.
April 10, 2024
I really loved this. Not sure if it was the setting, the era in which the story was set or the story itself. Probably all three but for me, it all made for a terrific read. I loved the mix of fiction with historical events.
McQueen is a great character and I liked his determination to get to the bottom of things despite the best efforts of the local police chief. It was an easy read also and I found myself keen to get back to it whenever I had to put it down. I hope this might be the start of a series as I would like to see what future investigations lie in store for Sam.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for a copy of this and this is my honest review.
McQueen is a great character and I liked his determination to get to the bottom of things despite the best efforts of the local police chief. It was an easy read also and I found myself keen to get back to it whenever I had to put it down. I hope this might be the start of a series as I would like to see what future investigations lie in store for Sam.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for a copy of this and this is my honest review.
April 19, 2024
The best debut novel I have read in yonks. The writing is very classy and gloriously atmospheric. This really is a huge treat for fans of historical crime fiction.
The author creates a real sense of place. One can feel the extreme heat of the Mediterranean sun shining on the island citadel of Malta in 1880 as the perfectly constructed plot unfolds.
The characters are so real I feel like I know them all. Detective Inspector Sam McQueen is a no-nonsense Scot, but he is also compassionate and totally devoted to discovering the truth. I can't wait to read more novels with him doing the detecting.
Lynn Marie Taylor's literary curtain raiser gets a standing ovation from me.
The author creates a real sense of place. One can feel the extreme heat of the Mediterranean sun shining on the island citadel of Malta in 1880 as the perfectly constructed plot unfolds.
The characters are so real I feel like I know them all. Detective Inspector Sam McQueen is a no-nonsense Scot, but he is also compassionate and totally devoted to discovering the truth. I can't wait to read more novels with him doing the detecting.
Lynn Marie Taylor's literary curtain raiser gets a standing ovation from me.
April 25, 2024
Although I found this book hard to get into I persevered and enjoyed reading it. Detective Inspector Sam McQueen from the Edinburgh Police is sent to Malta to investigate the death of Commander Collingwood, a hero of the Crimean War. The death has been ruled an accident by the local Maltese police, and both his wife and friend are refusing to believe this.
October 22, 2024
A murder mystery that takes you from the rain soaked streets of Edinburgh to the sun baked, scandal soaked island of Malta.
Lynne Marie Taylor serves up a Victorian whodunit so atmospheric, you can almost feel the humidity frizzing your hair and smell the tension simmering in the Mediterranean air.
Enter DI Sam McQueen, our brooding, trench coat clad detective from the misty moors of Scotland. He’s probably as comfortable in the sweltering Maltese heat as a polar bear on a beach vacation, but duty calls. And by duty, I mean a very wealthy widow who’s convinced her late husband, Admiral Collingwood, didn’t just have a tragic “oops” moment and tumble off a roof. No, she’s insisting on foul play, and McQueen’s been sent to figure out if there’s more to this fall than meets the eye or the shattered bones.
The local police chief? Let’s just say he’s about as friendly as a cactus in a kilt, resenting McQueen’s presence every step of the way.
But with the widow holding all the power (and the purse strings), he’s got no choice but to let the foreign detective poke around. Lucky for McQueen, he’s not entirely alone on this murder island. He’s got a helpful police physician and the whip-smart daughter of a newspaper editor on his side. And let’s be honest, no detective can solve a Victorian murder mystery without a smart, intrepid young woman getting involved, right?
As McQueen sweats his way through Valletta’s narrow streets, grand villas, and aristocratic scandals, the body count suspiciously rises. Coincidence? Death in Valletta expertly weaves a web of intrigue, class tensions, and oh so many secrets that threaten to unravel at any moment.
Taylor’s Malta isn’t just a picturesque Mediterranean getaway. It’s full of shadows, mysteries, and characters with motives murkier than the harbour at midnight.
McQueen’s sharp detective skills are tested at every turn, as he tries to unravel the knot of conspiracies and cover-ups. And trust me, this is the kind of mystery where everyone’s got a secret, and the villa walls have ears.
With its crackling dialogue, immersive setting, and enough red herrings to start a fish market, Death in Valletta is a gripping, sun drenched murder mystery with a delightfully Victorian twist.
October 15, 2024
I really enjoy a good historical murder mystery. You are transported to another time and place with a cast of characters you're unlikely to meet in your day to day life. The same essentially happens to our MMC, DI Sam McQueen. He's "voluntold" to go to Malta to get out of the way of a former colleague that he helped send to prison.
On arrival in Malta he sticks out like a sore thumb in his unsuitable clothing and Scots accent. He's not making friends with the local cops either, he's soon aware that there is some corruption afoot and he's not going to turn a blind eye to it.
The descriptions of Malta were really descriptive and evocative and as my mother in law was born there, I actually felt quite at home. If you stripped away the period this would easily work as a modern day mystery. McQueen is perfectly cast as the grumpy, put-upon Scotsman, completely out of his element - it was kind of like Death in Paradise but in 1880 Malta! He may be 1000's of miles away but his problems at home are still causing him grief!
Dr Bonici was really a man ahead of his time, he's trying to get the bumbling local cops to take his science seriously and he's frustrated by their laissez-faire attitude. Maria was a great amateur assistant, she's the complete opposite of Sam and her chitter-chatter really helped to solidify her bright character.
I thought the depictions of the military and upper crust government types were well depicted and the various colonial and anti-colonial camps were fairly described. I would never have guessed that this was a debut novel and I'll wait patiently for another McQueen Mystery!
On arrival in Malta he sticks out like a sore thumb in his unsuitable clothing and Scots accent. He's not making friends with the local cops either, he's soon aware that there is some corruption afoot and he's not going to turn a blind eye to it.
The descriptions of Malta were really descriptive and evocative and as my mother in law was born there, I actually felt quite at home. If you stripped away the period this would easily work as a modern day mystery. McQueen is perfectly cast as the grumpy, put-upon Scotsman, completely out of his element - it was kind of like Death in Paradise but in 1880 Malta! He may be 1000's of miles away but his problems at home are still causing him grief!
Dr Bonici was really a man ahead of his time, he's trying to get the bumbling local cops to take his science seriously and he's frustrated by their laissez-faire attitude. Maria was a great amateur assistant, she's the complete opposite of Sam and her chitter-chatter really helped to solidify her bright character.
I thought the depictions of the military and upper crust government types were well depicted and the various colonial and anti-colonial camps were fairly described. I would never have guessed that this was a debut novel and I'll wait patiently for another McQueen Mystery!
November 19, 2024
I absolutely loved this historical fiction story set in 1880, from beginning to end. I was so wrapped up I spent the whole of Saturday just reading it unable to put it down. The reason I wanted to read this book, is I have been to Malta twice, including being to Valetta, where a murder has taken place. A lot of films and TV series that have been set in Malta. I can this story Death In Valletta about a murder, that’s set in the Victorian era, being turned into a film, with police having to use a lanterns. Admiral Lord Collingwood, former Commander-in-Chief of the Mediterranean Fleet who was highly regarded in Malta, now lays dead on the ground from falling from a top of his villa roof terrace. The most qualified police physician in Malta, has the task of examining the body of the Admiral Collingwood, someone he knew. The death of Admiral Lord Collingwood, is getting complicated, for the police, was it accidental death, homicide, or suicide or dangerously was it someone who murdered him. Now its time to call in a former police colleague from Edinburgh. By this point what was going through my mind is, if this was murder what would have been the motive? Without the evidence of how Admiral Lord Collingwood died, nothing can be done with the estate, unless suicide can be ruled out. Lady Collingwood, is sure her husband was murdered. I had my suspicion on what really happened, and why but was I right? My favourite character was the most qualified police physician Bonnici. This is one the best thrillers I have read, set this era of time. Do I recommend Death In Valletta to all you crime/ thriller readers? You bet I do! Please Dont miss this page-turning novel!!
October 18, 2024
Death in Valletta follows the adventures of Detective Inspector Sam McQueen as he is transferred from the grey and cold of Victorian Edinburgh to the relentless heat of Valletta to investigate a death which the widow insists was no accident.
I loved this book and was instantly wrapped up in the world and characters. The never ending heat and strange foreignness of Valletta are expertly described so you feel right beside DI McQueen as he navigates his way through the streets in his investigations.
The characters are well written and each has their own clear personality and purpose. The character of Sam McQueen was really likeable and his no nonsense, tinged with sarcasm, delivery made me smile. I enjoyed his quick wit, determined natured and clear sense of justice.
This was a highly enjoyable and engaging read which swept me up in the story and the short chapters made me feel a sense of progress. I am hopeful that we will see more of DI Sam McQueen as the suggestion is there that this could be the start of a series. Fingers crossed.
February 24, 2026
A pretty good murder mystery, but the greater selling point of this book is the historical setting of 1880s Malta - the scenes are described beautifully (across all senses), and the author has clearly done an impressive amount of research to ensure such historical & cultural accuracy. I read this while on holiday for a week in Valletta, and it was an extremely enjoyable combination!
Fair warning for minor spoilers in this list of Content Warnings for those who find them helpful:
Content Warnings:
Fair warning for minor spoilers in this list of Content Warnings for those who find them helpful:
Content Warnings:
April 17, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this compassionate and gripping murder mystery. Who killed the Admiral? Did he have enemies? Was a a war hero, deserving of respect or a philandering bully? Perhaps both? Inspector Sam McQueen is clearly out of his comfort zone. Malta is hot and his clothes are unsuitable. Not only that, some of the customs and traditions are alien to him, and the people closest to the crime belong to a social class where they are used to getting their own way. His investigation is hindered from the start by the uncooperative attitude of the Maltese chief of police. Is Dr Bonniċi the only person whom he can trust to act conscientiously and honestly? The book is set towards the end of the 19th century, but many of the injustices and inequalities are relevant today. The minor characters are well drawn and credible, whilst the main protagonists are complex and identifiable. An excellent novel and I look forward to reading more from this author.
March 5, 2025
I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would at the beginning. I picked it up because I’m Scottish, I like detective stories and I’ve holidayed on Malta, simple.
We have our morose and incorruptible Scottish detective Sam MacQueen being sent out to her majesty’s strategic outpost of Malta to look into the death of Lord Collingwood. It has been ruled a suicide but his wife is having none of that. Also, in Edinburgh Sam is in danger from a corrupt policeman he’d ’put away’ who is once again at large.
So far so predictable. However, MacQueen, despite his gruff appearance, is a decent cove. In his over-warm wool suit he doggedly follows up clues and suspects caring little for titles or class. He finds a few colleagues that he can trust as he knows he is being fed half truths by the local DI who does not like him.
Two more deaths are linked to the first murder and Sam is given a deadline to sort things out.
In the end I found I was quite taken with Sam MacQueen and hope I hear more of him.
We have our morose and incorruptible Scottish detective Sam MacQueen being sent out to her majesty’s strategic outpost of Malta to look into the death of Lord Collingwood. It has been ruled a suicide but his wife is having none of that. Also, in Edinburgh Sam is in danger from a corrupt policeman he’d ’put away’ who is once again at large.
So far so predictable. However, MacQueen, despite his gruff appearance, is a decent cove. In his over-warm wool suit he doggedly follows up clues and suspects caring little for titles or class. He finds a few colleagues that he can trust as he knows he is being fed half truths by the local DI who does not like him.
Two more deaths are linked to the first murder and Sam is given a deadline to sort things out.
In the end I found I was quite taken with Sam MacQueen and hope I hear more of him.
May 13, 2024
Malta and Edinburgh are as much characters in this novel as the colourful and complex human cast, as the author weaves a fast-paced narrative into the historic context of the time. The people involved in the crime belong to a social class which is impenetrable to McQueen. His investigation is hindered throughout. McQueen is a great character - gruff and brusque, ill at ease in high society but compassionate and dogged in his pursuit of justice.
Many of the issues of class, injustice and inequality that McQueen encounters are still relevant today. Whilst drawing out these parallels, there is no heavy-handed dwelling on them - just an easy-to-read book that you really want to return to when you put it down and stays with you afterwards. This is an excellent debut novel with a hint at the end that we'll be hearing more from Detective Sam McQueen
Many of the issues of class, injustice and inequality that McQueen encounters are still relevant today. Whilst drawing out these parallels, there is no heavy-handed dwelling on them - just an easy-to-read book that you really want to return to when you put it down and stays with you afterwards. This is an excellent debut novel with a hint at the end that we'll be hearing more from Detective Sam McQueen
October 11, 2024
The sudden death in Malta of Lord Collingwood, retired Admiral and Commander of the Mediterranean Fleet is quickly dismissed as an accident by the Maltese police, but his wife is certain that he has been murdered and demands further investigation. Sam McQueen is dispatched from cool, grey Edinburgh to the fiery heat of a summer in Malta. It soon becomes evident that the suspicions of Lady Collingwood are correct, as McQueen finds evidence of a murder.
The author brings to life the setting of Malta in the 1800s and has obviously done historical research into the social and political context of the period. The characters are interesting and the plot is complex enough to Lethe reader engaged. At times, the anti colonial element is heavy handed and rather obvious but does not detract from the overall story.
The author brings to life the setting of Malta in the 1800s and has obviously done historical research into the social and political context of the period. The characters are interesting and the plot is complex enough to Lethe reader engaged. At times, the anti colonial element is heavy handed and rather obvious but does not detract from the overall story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2025
An Edinburgh police detective is summoned to the island of Malta, in this gripping and atmospheric murder mystery set in the Victorian era.
It is the summer of 1880, and DI Sam McQueen has been called away from the grey, damp streets of Edinburgh to investigate a case on the oppressively hot Mediterranean island of Malta. The local police chief is distinctly unwelcoming toward the interloper—but has no choice in the matter since Admiral Collingwood’s wealthy widow insists that her husband’s fatal fall from the roof of their villa was no accident.
Fortunately, McQueen gets help from a police physician and the resourceful daughter of a newspaper editor—support he will need as he tangles with local aristocrats unearths secrets and conspiracies, and is faced with more suspicious deaths that may or may not be connected to the late admiral . . .
It is the summer of 1880, and DI Sam McQueen has been called away from the grey, damp streets of Edinburgh to investigate a case on the oppressively hot Mediterranean island of Malta. The local police chief is distinctly unwelcoming toward the interloper—but has no choice in the matter since Admiral Collingwood’s wealthy widow insists that her husband’s fatal fall from the roof of their villa was no accident.
Fortunately, McQueen gets help from a police physician and the resourceful daughter of a newspaper editor—support he will need as he tangles with local aristocrats unearths secrets and conspiracies, and is faced with more suspicious deaths that may or may not be connected to the late admiral . . .
October 17, 2024
This Gifted EPub ticked lots of boxes of what I like to read, namely a murder mystery with multiple points of view with plot twists.😀
I rather liked DI Sam McQueen with his troubled family past from 1880s damp Edinburgh and look forward to meeting him again, as the book looks to be the first in a series. It was quite comical Sam insisted on wearing his heavy weight suit and bowler hat despite the oppressive heat of Malta that you can vividly feel, brought to life with the authors descriptive language. I liked the feisty rebellious heroine Maria and her at times dangerous exploits. I know nothing about the history of Malta and its politics, but this appeared clearly incorporated into the plot.
I rather liked DI Sam McQueen with his troubled family past from 1880s damp Edinburgh and look forward to meeting him again, as the book looks to be the first in a series. It was quite comical Sam insisted on wearing his heavy weight suit and bowler hat despite the oppressive heat of Malta that you can vividly feel, brought to life with the authors descriptive language. I liked the feisty rebellious heroine Maria and her at times dangerous exploits. I know nothing about the history of Malta and its politics, but this appeared clearly incorporated into the plot.
October 22, 2024
I love a good detective story/ murder mystery and when that murder mystery is a historical murder mystery then I am a very happy Vixen indeed. I really enjoyed this book and couldn't put it down.
The book is well written with a compelling story line and well developed characters. I really liked Sam and detested Borg, I was rooting for same all the way through. The book is full of rich imagery and vivid descriptions, I have never been to Malta ( although I would love to go) but it was easy to believe I was there alongside the characters, I was immersed.
I cannot believe that this is a debut and I can't wait to read more by the author. I would love to see more of Sam in the future too.
The book is well written with a compelling story line and well developed characters. I really liked Sam and detested Borg, I was rooting for same all the way through. The book is full of rich imagery and vivid descriptions, I have never been to Malta ( although I would love to go) but it was easy to believe I was there alongside the characters, I was immersed.
I cannot believe that this is a debut and I can't wait to read more by the author. I would love to see more of Sam in the future too.
October 16, 2024
Set in the summer of 1880, this captivating murder mystery follows DI Sam McQueen, who is sent from Edinburgh to the sun-soaked island of Malta. The local resistance adds tension as McQueen investigates a suspicious death, revealing a richly woven narrative with colorful characters and numerous twists. The author’s vivid descriptions bring Malta's history to life, creating an engaging backdrop. McQueen's grumpy charm and personal struggles add depth to the story. With well-developed characters and a gripping plot, this debut is a promising start. I eagerly await more from this talented author!
October 16, 2024
I loved this mystery- everything about it the time period, the characters and the twisty nature of the story. What can I say ..... loved McQueen coming from Edinburgh and always making sure he made sure everyone knew he was from Scotland and not England (very important distinction). Then you add to this a location like Malta where one of the things about it is heat - something us Scots struggle with - and put him there and I felt seen as this would have been me. The plot of this was a novel of fiction steeped in years of history and this is where the author needs to be commended and the only thing I need to know is .... Will this be turning into a series?
April 15, 2024
A very good debut novel which incorporates murder, an historical setting in Malta and a gruff detective from Edinburgh who has his own reasons for taking on this job. I loved the detail and descriptiveness of 19th century Malta along with the issues which the Maltese had at that time especially with the British occupancy. McQueen is definitely an outsider however being Scottish does help him get people onside and I certainly foresee other tales featuring him.
Thanks to Bloodhound books for the ARC to review.
Thanks to Bloodhound books for the ARC to review.
October 14, 2024
This is a classic historical thriller which keeps you guessing until the end. It’s well written and an interesting story. Set in 1880s Malta, Scottish DI Sam McQueen sets out to solve a murder, but one death may be the start of his troubles in Valletta. When reading you can tell a lot of effort has gone into the setting of Malta in the 19th century. The pronunciation guide at the end is very helpful too!
It’s a very easy book to read and has a complex plot of corruption, death and secrets. What more could you want from a crime thriller?
I was gifted this as a review copy from the author
It’s a very easy book to read and has a complex plot of corruption, death and secrets. What more could you want from a crime thriller?
I was gifted this as a review copy from the author
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