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Ally McKinley Mystery #3
A Very Bookish Murder
Welcome back to the tiny Highland village of Locharran, where Ally McKinley – guesthouse owner and accidental detective – is about to stumble upon another dead body… and her next case.
When Ally McKinley hears that well-known novelist Jodi Jones is going to host a writers’ retreat at the hotel just down the road, she’s delighted to offer rooms at her little guesthouse for some of the attendees. Ally is thrilled to join the group for one of their first sessions – but the retreat has barely begun before she finds the famous writer strangled in the ladies' bathroom!
The cake tin and teapot come out at the little guesthouse in the Highlands as Ally begins to question her bookish guests. Accusations of plagiarism and infidelity start flying and it’s clear that more than one of the retreat attendees had a grudge against Jodi. But could any of them have resorted to murder?
When Ally discovers a diary in Jodi’s bedroom at the guesthouse with several pages ripped out of it, she thinks she’s close to cracking the case. But the plot thickens when another of the aspiring writers is found dead, only hours after she said she knew the identity of Jodi’s killer.
Not only is the murderer still in Locharran, they’re desperate to stop Ally getting to the truth. With her faithful puppy Flora by her side, can Ally unravel the clues and solve the mystery before she’s written out of the story for good?
When Ally McKinley hears that well-known novelist Jodi Jones is going to host a writers’ retreat at the hotel just down the road, she’s delighted to offer rooms at her little guesthouse for some of the attendees. Ally is thrilled to join the group for one of their first sessions – but the retreat has barely begun before she finds the famous writer strangled in the ladies' bathroom!
The cake tin and teapot come out at the little guesthouse in the Highlands as Ally begins to question her bookish guests. Accusations of plagiarism and infidelity start flying and it’s clear that more than one of the retreat attendees had a grudge against Jodi. But could any of them have resorted to murder?
When Ally discovers a diary in Jodi’s bedroom at the guesthouse with several pages ripped out of it, she thinks she’s close to cracking the case. But the plot thickens when another of the aspiring writers is found dead, only hours after she said she knew the identity of Jodi’s killer.
Not only is the murderer still in Locharran, they’re desperate to stop Ally getting to the truth. With her faithful puppy Flora by her side, can Ally unravel the clues and solve the mystery before she’s written out of the story for good?
238 pages, Paperback
First published September 19, 2025
809 people are currently reading
1043 people want to read
About the author
Dee MacDonald
16 books268 followersThe Runaway Wife is Dee’s first (published) novel but in fact she wrote her very first book – at around seven years of age! This was a love story which she duly illustrated before sewing all the pages together up one side. Writing was what she ‘was good at’ in school and she won several essay competitions, but then life got in the way and she didn’t pick up a pen again until after retirement.
Dee left Scotland and headed for London at the beginning of the swinging sixties. After typing her way round the West End she became an air stewardess on long haul routes with BA (then BOAC) for eight years. After that she did market research at Heathrow for both the government statistics and for BA, she became a sales rep and was the receptionist at the Thames Television Studios in Teddington when they had the franchise.
She then ran a small B&B for ten years in Cornwall, where she lives with her husband. Dee has one son and two grandsons who live locally.
Her second book, The Getaway Girls, will be published in July.
Dee left Scotland and headed for London at the beginning of the swinging sixties. After typing her way round the West End she became an air stewardess on long haul routes with BA (then BOAC) for eight years. After that she did market research at Heathrow for both the government statistics and for BA, she became a sales rep and was the receptionist at the Thames Television Studios in Teddington when they had the franchise.
She then ran a small B&B for ten years in Cornwall, where she lives with her husband. Dee has one son and two grandsons who live locally.
Her second book, The Getaway Girls, will be published in July.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
September 16, 2025
The third book in the Ally McKinley Mystery series and I have enjoyed them all so far.
Ally owns and runs a guesthouse in the Scottish town of Locharran. A Writers' Retreat turns into a murder investigation when one of the visiting authors is found dead. Ally dons her sleuthing hat and, with the help of her partner, Ross, works to solve the mystery.
I enjoy the way this author writes, intelligently and often amusingly. The characters are friendly, the setting is beautiful plus there are two cute dogs to complete the picture. A relaxing and rewarding read. Four stars.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Ally owns and runs a guesthouse in the Scottish town of Locharran. A Writers' Retreat turns into a murder investigation when one of the visiting authors is found dead. Ally dons her sleuthing hat and, with the help of her partner, Ross, works to solve the mystery.
I enjoy the way this author writes, intelligently and often amusingly. The characters are friendly, the setting is beautiful plus there are two cute dogs to complete the picture. A relaxing and rewarding read. Four stars.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
November 11, 2025
A Very Bookish Murder is the 3rd-book in the Ally McKinley Mystery series, which has quickly become one of my favorite, currently-running Cozy Mystery series.
These books, set in the Scottish Highlands, follow recent-retiree and widow, Ally McKinley, who fell in love with the village of Locharran while on a holiday. Shortly thereafter, she purchased the old malthouse and transformed it into a now successful B&B.
Ally has settled into her new life very well. She's made many great friends, adopted a beautiful Labrador puppy, Flora, and has even found a charming new love interest.
Her quiet life in the Highlands is going better than she could've ever dreamed. Well, except for the fact that she keeps finding herself adjacent to suspicious deaths.
Silver lining: Ally has turned into quite the intrepid amateur sleuth. There's no stopping her once she starts digging.
This mystery revolves around a group of women authors, who are all visiting Locharran to attend a Writers' Retreat Workshop led by successful novelist, Jodi Jones. A few of the women, including Jodi herself, will be staying at Ally's B&B, while the rest stay in the village at the local hotel.
The women who check themselves into Ally's guest house are all pleased with the accommodations, and hospitality. They seem to take to her, and invite her to attend one of the very first sessions of the retreat, which is being held at the hotel, the Craigmonie.
Ally is certainly interested by all the goings-on, and is surprised to hear a few complaints lodged against the host, Jodi Jones. Jodi's accused of stealing plots, and plagiarism, amongst other things, and then Ally finds the famous author strangled in the Ladies restroom.
The authorities, as well as Ally, believe that the culprit is most likely one of the other retreat attendees. Ally uses her past experience cracking cases to methodically work her way through the cast of suspects, discovering new evidence and plenty of potential motives along the way.
When another attendee is found murdered, hours after she told Ally she knew who the killer was, Ally is positive the murderer is close at hand. Will she be able to figure it out before they stop her snooping for good?
Another fun, fulfilling and engaging Ally McKinley Mystery book complete. Let the countdown begin for the next one. I can't wait to see what mystery unfolds next.
As mentioned above, this has become one of my favorite Cozy Mystery series and I think a lot of that has to do with Ally. She's a great protagonist. There's something about her that's just so thoughtful and comfortable. She's like getting a nice warm hug from your Gran.
Additionally, the Scottish Highlands setting is a huge plus, as well as the quirky cast of characters and always intriguing mysteries. As soon as I finish one of these books, I want the next one in my hands.
I loved that this one revolved around this group of women writers. They were each unique and distinct, yet all of them could have had reason to get rid of Jodi, so there were plenty of red herrings swimming about.
There wasn't as much focus in this one on the local characters, which I sort of missed, but there really wasn't reason to be, because there were so many new characters in town for the retreat. With this being said, we still got Ally having interactions with her friends, like Hamish, her cleaner and other local business owners.
I have a feeling that perhaps the next mystery will be more village-focused. Either way, even if it's not, I'll be reading it, and I'm more than confident that I'll be enjoying it.
Thank you so much to the publisher, Bookouture, for providing me with a copy to read and review. Dee MacDonald has a real gem on her hands with this series, and I hope there's many more installments to come!
These books, set in the Scottish Highlands, follow recent-retiree and widow, Ally McKinley, who fell in love with the village of Locharran while on a holiday. Shortly thereafter, she purchased the old malthouse and transformed it into a now successful B&B.
Ally has settled into her new life very well. She's made many great friends, adopted a beautiful Labrador puppy, Flora, and has even found a charming new love interest.
Her quiet life in the Highlands is going better than she could've ever dreamed. Well, except for the fact that she keeps finding herself adjacent to suspicious deaths.
Silver lining: Ally has turned into quite the intrepid amateur sleuth. There's no stopping her once she starts digging.
This mystery revolves around a group of women authors, who are all visiting Locharran to attend a Writers' Retreat Workshop led by successful novelist, Jodi Jones. A few of the women, including Jodi herself, will be staying at Ally's B&B, while the rest stay in the village at the local hotel.
The women who check themselves into Ally's guest house are all pleased with the accommodations, and hospitality. They seem to take to her, and invite her to attend one of the very first sessions of the retreat, which is being held at the hotel, the Craigmonie.
Ally is certainly interested by all the goings-on, and is surprised to hear a few complaints lodged against the host, Jodi Jones. Jodi's accused of stealing plots, and plagiarism, amongst other things, and then Ally finds the famous author strangled in the Ladies restroom.
The authorities, as well as Ally, believe that the culprit is most likely one of the other retreat attendees. Ally uses her past experience cracking cases to methodically work her way through the cast of suspects, discovering new evidence and plenty of potential motives along the way.
When another attendee is found murdered, hours after she told Ally she knew who the killer was, Ally is positive the murderer is close at hand. Will she be able to figure it out before they stop her snooping for good?
Another fun, fulfilling and engaging Ally McKinley Mystery book complete. Let the countdown begin for the next one. I can't wait to see what mystery unfolds next.
As mentioned above, this has become one of my favorite Cozy Mystery series and I think a lot of that has to do with Ally. She's a great protagonist. There's something about her that's just so thoughtful and comfortable. She's like getting a nice warm hug from your Gran.
Additionally, the Scottish Highlands setting is a huge plus, as well as the quirky cast of characters and always intriguing mysteries. As soon as I finish one of these books, I want the next one in my hands.
I loved that this one revolved around this group of women writers. They were each unique and distinct, yet all of them could have had reason to get rid of Jodi, so there were plenty of red herrings swimming about.
There wasn't as much focus in this one on the local characters, which I sort of missed, but there really wasn't reason to be, because there were so many new characters in town for the retreat. With this being said, we still got Ally having interactions with her friends, like Hamish, her cleaner and other local business owners.
I have a feeling that perhaps the next mystery will be more village-focused. Either way, even if it's not, I'll be reading it, and I'm more than confident that I'll be enjoying it.
Thank you so much to the publisher, Bookouture, for providing me with a copy to read and review. Dee MacDonald has a real gem on her hands with this series, and I hope there's many more installments to come!
September 10, 2025
Locharran in the Scottish Highlands saw Ally McKinley, owner of the Auld Malthouse, now a B&B, hosting some of the writers who were arriving for the Writers Retreat. Jodi Jones, a well known novelist, was running the retreat, and Ally was invited to the first event. But it was during the event, when Jodi was accused of plagiarism, that things went wrong. Calling for a break in proceedings, guests went in different directions. When it was time to restart, Jodi was missing - Ally found her body in the bathroom. When the local constabulary arrived, Inspector Bob Rigby took over, beginning the questioning, until his sudden collapse and rush to hospital.
Ally was determined to discover Jodi's killer; but her questions discovered not many of the guests liked Jodi. But what were their motives if one of them had killed her? Ally's friend Ross was by her side in her quest, and the new Inspector who was filling in for Rigby was more than happy for Ally to help as well. Nothing was going to plan though - until a second woman was murdered...
A Very Bookish Murder is the 3rd in the Ally McKinley Mystery series by Dee MacDonald and it was another fun and entertaining episode which I thoroughly enjoyed. Set in the beautiful Scottish highlands, I'd love to visit. And the two dogs, Ally's Flora and Ross' Ebony, are gorgeous! The laird in the castle at the top of the hill, Hamish, is a caring and empathetic man, with his new wife Magda by his side. All in all, a great episode which I recommend, and I'm looking forward to #4.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.
Ally was determined to discover Jodi's killer; but her questions discovered not many of the guests liked Jodi. But what were their motives if one of them had killed her? Ally's friend Ross was by her side in her quest, and the new Inspector who was filling in for Rigby was more than happy for Ally to help as well. Nothing was going to plan though - until a second woman was murdered...
A Very Bookish Murder is the 3rd in the Ally McKinley Mystery series by Dee MacDonald and it was another fun and entertaining episode which I thoroughly enjoyed. Set in the beautiful Scottish highlands, I'd love to visit. And the two dogs, Ally's Flora and Ross' Ebony, are gorgeous! The laird in the castle at the top of the hill, Hamish, is a caring and empathetic man, with his new wife Magda by his side. All in all, a great episode which I recommend, and I'm looking forward to #4.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.
September 10, 2025
New to me author and series. I loved both. The setting in Scotland is lovely and well depicted. The main characters are quite memorable. I had no idea who the murderer was. An unexpected motivation for the murders. I do plan to read the previous two in the series. Highly recommend.
I was blessed with an ARC. Thank you NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
I was blessed with an ARC. Thank you NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
September 22, 2025
A Very Bookish Murder is another fun cosy mystery read from Dee McDonald. Ally is such a likeable character and she loves to do a bit of investigating. There is plenty of opportunity for her to show her skills when not one but two people are murder whilst on a writing retreat.
There is enough backstory dispersed throughout for those who are new to the series and also provides a refresher for return readers.
If you love Midsomer Murders you will enjoy the Ally McKinley series.
A Very Bookish Murder is a fun, light cosy mystery, perfect for reading over a quiet weekend.
There is enough backstory dispersed throughout for those who are new to the series and also provides a refresher for return readers.
If you love Midsomer Murders you will enjoy the Ally McKinley series.
A Very Bookish Murder is a fun, light cosy mystery, perfect for reading over a quiet weekend.
May 14, 2025
A Very Bookish Murder, is the third installment of the Alley McKinley cozy mystery series by Dee McDonald after the incident with the walking group Ally finally opens up the Malt B&B in Locharran, Scotland. this time instead of those on holiday or a walking group she opens up and rents to a riders group at the request of one of her new friends Destamona. One of those staying with Allie is Jodie Jones a famous author along with four other women in the writers group. They all insist Ally accompanied them to the Craigmonie hotel. this is where the amateur sleuth finds her first body and it is the author Jodie Jones and it is right after a woman from Ireland accuses Jodie of committing plagiarism. Although it looks easily solvable Alley will find herself in a very deep seated revenge plot that isn’t so easy to solve., soon after calling 999, a helicopter comes in only to determine it is too late for poor Jody but it is right on time for detective Rigby because right after getting to the hotel he suffers a heart attack. Thanks to Alley‘s quit thinking she stopped the helicopter from leaving and saved Rigby‘s life but what he reveals to her when she visits him at the hospital, what he says makes the case that much more personal. she also learns how much detective inspector Rigby really thinks of her sleuthing abilities. this is how she comes to know DI Amir and she will definitely need his help because Jody is far from the only murder victim. I love this cozy mystery series I love that alley although soon reaching her 70s is a woman on the move and an every day person you could really see yourself being friends with. These books are not only funny but intelligently done and ones I cannot wait for the next installment of. I can honestly say these are among my favorite cozy mysteries. #NetGalley, #Bookouture,#TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview, #DeeMcDonald, #AVeryBookishMurder,
May 29, 2025
Another fun read in a delightful series. In book three, Ally is comfortably settled in her Inn and as it's spring getting ready for her busy season. A book critique group is having a week long convention, including a famous published author, and Ally is asked to host five women that the local hotel doesn't have room for, including the celebrity author. While the author may have published books, she's not everyone's cup of tea, and during an afternoon session, she is challenged by an attendee who accuses her of plagiarism. When all heck breaks loose, the hotel rushes in refreshment and encourages a break to cool things off. When Ally visits the loo, she is invited to the afternoon session by her guests, she finds the strangled body of the author crammed in a stall. When the officer Ally is used to dealing with shows up, he looks unwell, and before he can question everyone, he has a heart attack. We are now on quite a wild ride! Who wanted the guest author dead? Is Ally hosting a murderer? Will the officer make it, and who will fill in for him? What other secrets are there to uncover and can Ally assist the new detective? You will find your time well invested in getting those answers! Thanks to #Netgally, #Bookouture, and the author for an opportunity to read. #AVeryBookishMurder #AllyMcKinleyMystery #DeeMacDonald #bookreview #bookideas #retiredreader
September 7, 2025
Ally is retired and has recently opened up a B&B in the Scottish Highlands. Her most recent guests for the week are a group of wannabe be writers who are attending a retreat hosted by famous novelist Jodi Jones but be for things even get started. Jodi turns up dead in the bathroom and all of them have a motive and an opportunity. Can Ally figure out who the murderer is before they strike again?
This is your typical cozy mystery-you have your amateur sleuth, the suspects, a gorgeous setting, several red herrings to throw you off and plenty of clues to help you figure it out, which is what I love about cozy mystery. But at the same time. with this one it was pretty obvious early on who the murderer was, which was kinda a letdown but I still enjoyed the journey, especially the location.
This was the third book in the series, but I read it as a standalone.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review.
This is your typical cozy mystery-you have your amateur sleuth, the suspects, a gorgeous setting, several red herrings to throw you off and plenty of clues to help you figure it out, which is what I love about cozy mystery. But at the same time. with this one it was pretty obvious early on who the murderer was, which was kinda a letdown but I still enjoyed the journey, especially the location.
This was the third book in the series, but I read it as a standalone.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review.
October 5, 2025
3.5 stars
A brisk but fun installment in the Ally McKinley series. It wastes no time to setup the murder and suspects are introduced immediately, and the story builds from there. The pace keeps it engaging, though it means the strongest clues are stacked toward the end, which lessens the puzzle element slightly.
The cast is lively, with a good mix of recurring and new characters (notably Penelope, Joyce, Amir, Brigitte, Rigby). There’s humour, intrigue, and a touch of seriousness that rounds things out well. Ally herself feels slightly lighter in focus this time, with fewer cosy personal touches, but the book still delivers the genre’s charm.
The shorter length means the setting isn’t described as richly as it could be, but the snappy pacing compensates. It’s not a perfect book, but it doesn’t need to be. It entertains, fits the cosy mould, and adds strength to the series.
Thanks to Netgalley for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A brisk but fun installment in the Ally McKinley series. It wastes no time to setup the murder and suspects are introduced immediately, and the story builds from there. The pace keeps it engaging, though it means the strongest clues are stacked toward the end, which lessens the puzzle element slightly.
The cast is lively, with a good mix of recurring and new characters (notably Penelope, Joyce, Amir, Brigitte, Rigby). There’s humour, intrigue, and a touch of seriousness that rounds things out well. Ally herself feels slightly lighter in focus this time, with fewer cosy personal touches, but the book still delivers the genre’s charm.
The shorter length means the setting isn’t described as richly as it could be, but the snappy pacing compensates. It’s not a perfect book, but it doesn’t need to be. It entertains, fits the cosy mould, and adds strength to the series.
Thanks to Netgalley for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 9, 2025
Ally McKinley is back and this time we find ourselves at a writers retreat being hosted in the village ( Locharran), there soon is a murder and Ally once again becomes full time sleuth as the mystery deepens and one body turns into two!
It is a big cast as as well as the village favourites, the nosey cleaner and her gossip fuelled postman hubby and the 2 sisters who run the local store we meet the women authors on the retreat, some of them are not quite who they seem and some have arrived with scores to settle…
The author once again writes a joyous book and manages to combine crime and humour plus big personalities all wrapped up in a book you can fall into and relax and enjoy and you easily become part of this wonderful village, albeit dangerous has to be said 🤗
Ally is as fizzy as always, the story as readable as always and Dee MacDonald remains one of my fav authors
Roll on Book 4
It is a big cast as as well as the village favourites, the nosey cleaner and her gossip fuelled postman hubby and the 2 sisters who run the local store we meet the women authors on the retreat, some of them are not quite who they seem and some have arrived with scores to settle…
The author once again writes a joyous book and manages to combine crime and humour plus big personalities all wrapped up in a book you can fall into and relax and enjoy and you easily become part of this wonderful village, albeit dangerous has to be said 🤗
Ally is as fizzy as always, the story as readable as always and Dee MacDonald remains one of my fav authors
Roll on Book 4
June 3, 2025
With spring in the air, guesthouse owner Ally McKinlay has five interesting visitors staying in her renovated malthouse. Well-known author Jodi Jones, who is the main speaker at a writing retreat being held at the local hotel, as well as four other writers, is enjoying Ally’s hospitality. Ally accepts an invitation to attend the first session but, after an altercation between Jodi and another writer, finds a lifeless body in a hotel bathroom! Determined to help the new detective assigned to the case Ally and partner Ross find themselves wondering if the guesthouse is hiding a killer in plain sight and when another body is discovered solving the case quickly becomes a necessity. Can they scour the gossip columns and social media sites and make a breakthrough before anyone else's final chapter is written?
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. Book three in this series definitely merits more than 5 stars and has to be one of my favourite reads of the year so far! It is laugh out loud in places, and a scene between Ally and local shopkeeper Queenie was just brilliant. I'm looking forward to book four already. Highly recommended.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. Book three in this series definitely merits more than 5 stars and has to be one of my favourite reads of the year so far! It is laugh out loud in places, and a scene between Ally and local shopkeeper Queenie was just brilliant. I'm looking forward to book four already. Highly recommended.
May 5, 2025
A Very Fine-ish Thriller...
As the spring season commences in Locharran, Ally McKinley is yet again ready to accommodate guests at her charming B&B, this time hosting a group of ladies arriving for the literary ladies writer's retreat. However, this enlightening and delightful event becomes an ordeal when Ally discovers Jodi, the guest speaker and best-selling author dead in the ladies' cloakroom. What follows is an investigation and series of accusations, revelations, suspicions and confessions from the suspects - women from different walks of life, some who had ulterior agendas for visiting this retreat.
Ally, the 'local sleuth' she is, helps uncover the puzzle surrounding the murder in this Agatha Christie-type cozy murder mystery novel.
I loved the initial bit of the first chapter where the main and recurring characters, their background, and the scenic beauty that Lacharran is introduced which I found perfect to set the theme and characters of the story for a first-time Ally McKinley reader like myself. Overall, the language was simple, straightforward and the story flowed smoothly. I felt this book fall in the slow to medium-paced category as the different characters' personalities and motivations developed gradually. 72% into the book, I guessed the murderer and was glad I turned out right. Yeah!
With some amazing supporting characters (Ross an absolute sweetheart), a familiar yet gripping story that kept me hooked from the start to the end, and little moments of amusement, I would definitely recommend this book for murder mystery lovers. It has sparked my interest in her previous two Ally McKinley mysteries and I look forward to reading Dee McDonald's future work in this series.
Thank you Bookouture for providing eARC copy of this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
As the spring season commences in Locharran, Ally McKinley is yet again ready to accommodate guests at her charming B&B, this time hosting a group of ladies arriving for the literary ladies writer's retreat. However, this enlightening and delightful event becomes an ordeal when Ally discovers Jodi, the guest speaker and best-selling author dead in the ladies' cloakroom. What follows is an investigation and series of accusations, revelations, suspicions and confessions from the suspects - women from different walks of life, some who had ulterior agendas for visiting this retreat.
Ally, the 'local sleuth' she is, helps uncover the puzzle surrounding the murder in this Agatha Christie-type cozy murder mystery novel.
I loved the initial bit of the first chapter where the main and recurring characters, their background, and the scenic beauty that Lacharran is introduced which I found perfect to set the theme and characters of the story for a first-time Ally McKinley reader like myself. Overall, the language was simple, straightforward and the story flowed smoothly. I felt this book fall in the slow to medium-paced category as the different characters' personalities and motivations developed gradually. 72% into the book, I guessed the murderer and was glad I turned out right. Yeah!
With some amazing supporting characters (Ross an absolute sweetheart), a familiar yet gripping story that kept me hooked from the start to the end, and little moments of amusement, I would definitely recommend this book for murder mystery lovers. It has sparked my interest in her previous two Ally McKinley mysteries and I look forward to reading Dee McDonald's future work in this series.
Thank you Bookouture for providing eARC copy of this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
July 9, 2025
"A Very Bookish Murder," the third installment of the cozy mystery series of Dee MacDonald's Ally McKinley Mystery , that is set in the coastal Scottish village of Loccharran becomes the backdrop for a writer's retreat at Ally's B&B. However, the literary pursuits of the guests are abruptly halted when one of their own falls victim to murder. Navigating the complicated web of clues, she must solve the mystery before becoming the next victim.
This installment is a masterful blend of suspense, with unexpected twists that kept me guessing until the very end. The author's ability to craft a compelling narrative is evident, and I am thoroughly engaged in the series. I eagerly anticipate the next installment in the series.
This installment is a masterful blend of suspense, with unexpected twists that kept me guessing until the very end. The author's ability to craft a compelling narrative is evident, and I am thoroughly engaged in the series. I eagerly anticipate the next installment in the series.
September 17, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Dee MacDonalds team for letting me read this wonderfully cozy book early.
Ally McKinley, what an absolutely sweet character. I really liked her, she reminded me of a grandma that just wants to give you tea and have a good chat.
I love the fact it’s set in Scotland, my family is from there so it felt like a personal connection.
I thought the setting of the town was awesome and cozy. Like I wanted to explore there myself. The only down side was I didn’t really care for any of the writers in attendance at the guesthouse. I wanted to be able to choose one to root for, but none were too likeable to me. Or at least, I felt like I didn’t know them enough to be able to choose and like. So I’m thinking, since I liked the setting and the town, maybe I’d like the other books better! (Yes, I did start this series at book 3 haha). Still an enjoyable read, interested in reading the others. But I think those that would like this book more than me would be cozy mystery readers, I like more shock and twists in mysteries. But I’m really glad I read this book, it was fast to read and rather enjoyable otherwise. Reminded me low key of golden girls.
Ally McKinley, what an absolutely sweet character. I really liked her, she reminded me of a grandma that just wants to give you tea and have a good chat.
I love the fact it’s set in Scotland, my family is from there so it felt like a personal connection.
I thought the setting of the town was awesome and cozy. Like I wanted to explore there myself. The only down side was I didn’t really care for any of the writers in attendance at the guesthouse. I wanted to be able to choose one to root for, but none were too likeable to me. Or at least, I felt like I didn’t know them enough to be able to choose and like. So I’m thinking, since I liked the setting and the town, maybe I’d like the other books better! (Yes, I did start this series at book 3 haha). Still an enjoyable read, interested in reading the others. But I think those that would like this book more than me would be cozy mystery readers, I like more shock and twists in mysteries. But I’m really glad I read this book, it was fast to read and rather enjoyable otherwise. Reminded me low key of golden girls.
October 4, 2025
3.75 stars rounded up
August 11, 2025
Thank you to the publisher for sending through an ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review!
A Very Bookish Murder is quite an enjoyable book. A cute little series centred around a retired widow who buys a BnB up in the Scottish highlands but of course it wouldn't be a mystery series if she didn't involved in a murder or two....
This particular book deals with spring on its way towards the Highlands and Ally's abode being used as accommodation for a literary group doing a writing workshop weekend. All is well and good till the principal speaker turns up strangled to death in the ladies' bathroom with her own scarf, and there starts Ally's investigation!
I really quite enjoyed reading this book. It was incredibly fast paced and the writer didn't hesitate for the body to show up within the first few pages. All the better, because there was a lot to get through anyhow. We're introduced to a new police investigator in the form of a charming Desi (South Asian) Amir Kandahar standing in for Bob Rigby. And of course, there are the other characters who must have been established in the earlier books. I personally hadn't read any of the previous books and this, like so many other books of late, was my introduction to this series. That, however, was not a difficulty in terms of catching up as the previous history hasn't been referred to much (although I am curious as to how a 70-something yo character in this book gets together with his wife who's clearly young enough to be his daughter, haha). The final twist in the tale is a good one and while I wasn't entirely too surprised by it (but this is more because I'm an avid mystery reader than any bad writing on the author's part) I was expecting it to be another character.
All in all, an enjoyable read and a captivating series I'm tempted to check out the previous books of.
4 stars/5
A Very Bookish Murder is quite an enjoyable book. A cute little series centred around a retired widow who buys a BnB up in the Scottish highlands but of course it wouldn't be a mystery series if she didn't involved in a murder or two....
This particular book deals with spring on its way towards the Highlands and Ally's abode being used as accommodation for a literary group doing a writing workshop weekend. All is well and good till the principal speaker turns up strangled to death in the ladies' bathroom with her own scarf, and there starts Ally's investigation!
I really quite enjoyed reading this book. It was incredibly fast paced and the writer didn't hesitate for the body to show up within the first few pages. All the better, because there was a lot to get through anyhow. We're introduced to a new police investigator in the form of a charming Desi (South Asian) Amir Kandahar standing in for Bob Rigby. And of course, there are the other characters who must have been established in the earlier books. I personally hadn't read any of the previous books and this, like so many other books of late, was my introduction to this series. That, however, was not a difficulty in terms of catching up as the previous history hasn't been referred to much (although I am curious as to how a 70-something yo character in this book gets together with his wife who's clearly young enough to be his daughter, haha). The final twist in the tale is a good one and while I wasn't entirely too surprised by it (but this is more because I'm an avid mystery reader than any bad writing on the author's part) I was expecting it to be another character.
All in all, an enjoyable read and a captivating series I'm tempted to check out the previous books of.
4 stars/5
July 4, 2025
Another cozy mystery solved by Ally McKinley! I enjoyed how many new characters played a part in this book as they continued to provide plot twists to keep you guessing. I would recommend reading book #1 or #2 in this series before you read this one— you get to know the main characters better in the previous books. Dee’s writing feels lighthearted and bubbly as the Ally McKinley series make for great quick reads!
*thank you Bookoture and NetGalley for this early release!
*thank you Bookoture and NetGalley for this early release!
May 24, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read "A Very Bookish Murder" in exchange for my honest opinion.
A book by Dee MacDonald is always a winner. Whether it is the Kate Palmer series or the new Ally McKinley series, you know it will be well researched, well thought out, the characters engaging and the plots believable. This is the third book in the Ally McKinley series and it just keeps getting better and more interesting as we learn more and more about the characters. I read this book in one sitting.
As we know from the previous books Ally has moved to Locharran, Scotland from Edinburgh much to the annoyance of her adult children Jamie and Carol who we learned in the first book ridiculed her decision at 66 to buy an old malthouse and convert it into a charming B&B.
Ally is in a wonderful relationship with Ross Patterson the retired vet whom she met when her puppy Flora needed her shots. She has fit in well and has made good friends that she can count on. People like Earl Hamish Sinclair who owns pretty much everything and his new wife Magda. Desdemona Morton has booked a group of authors in a Literary Ladies Writing group on a retreat. Five of the ladies are staying at the B&B - Penelope Fortescue-Rawlins, Brigitte Atkins, Millie Day, Joyce Williams and the guest of honour Jodi Jones a published author.
At the first meeting Jodi is accused of plagiarism by one of the authors. When one person fails to return at the end of the break, Ally goes looking for her and as it's becoming habit - she finds a body. DI Bob Rigby relocated to the Scottish Highlands from Birmingham when his wife insisted that "nothing much happens up there" - and boy was she wrong. When Rigby suffers a heart attack and is helicoptered to Glasgow we meet DI Amir Kandahar who like Rigby trusts Ally instincts and consults with her.
Ally's children are perhaps my least favourite characters because they are trying to force her back to "civilization" every time that something bad happens in the village. They want her to move back and live in a lovely "spare room" and they've given permission for her to bring Ross as well.
There are great twists and turns in this story. Some shocking revelations. Family secrets. I certainly can't wait for the next book to see what Ally gets involved with next.
A book by Dee MacDonald is always a winner. Whether it is the Kate Palmer series or the new Ally McKinley series, you know it will be well researched, well thought out, the characters engaging and the plots believable. This is the third book in the Ally McKinley series and it just keeps getting better and more interesting as we learn more and more about the characters. I read this book in one sitting.
As we know from the previous books Ally has moved to Locharran, Scotland from Edinburgh much to the annoyance of her adult children Jamie and Carol who we learned in the first book ridiculed her decision at 66 to buy an old malthouse and convert it into a charming B&B.
Ally is in a wonderful relationship with Ross Patterson the retired vet whom she met when her puppy Flora needed her shots. She has fit in well and has made good friends that she can count on. People like Earl Hamish Sinclair who owns pretty much everything and his new wife Magda. Desdemona Morton has booked a group of authors in a Literary Ladies Writing group on a retreat. Five of the ladies are staying at the B&B - Penelope Fortescue-Rawlins, Brigitte Atkins, Millie Day, Joyce Williams and the guest of honour Jodi Jones a published author.
At the first meeting Jodi is accused of plagiarism by one of the authors. When one person fails to return at the end of the break, Ally goes looking for her and as it's becoming habit - she finds a body. DI Bob Rigby relocated to the Scottish Highlands from Birmingham when his wife insisted that "nothing much happens up there" - and boy was she wrong. When Rigby suffers a heart attack and is helicoptered to Glasgow we meet DI Amir Kandahar who like Rigby trusts Ally instincts and consults with her.
Ally's children are perhaps my least favourite characters because they are trying to force her back to "civilization" every time that something bad happens in the village. They want her to move back and live in a lovely "spare room" and they've given permission for her to bring Ross as well.
There are great twists and turns in this story. Some shocking revelations. Family secrets. I certainly can't wait for the next book to see what Ally gets involved with next.
May 27, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review "A Very Bookish Murder", the third book in the Ally McKinley Mystery series by Dee MacDonald.
We're back at the Auld Malthouse with Ally McKinley, B&B owner and amateur detective.
Welcome back to Locharran, where murder investigations seem to find Ally, no matter how hard she tries to avoid them!
When an all female writers' group comes to town, and bestselling author Jodi Jones and some of her group are booked into Ally's B&B, she takes advantage of an invitation to attend the inaugural get together at the local hotel.
But Ally discovers the author dead in the ladies' room, and she's once again thrown into the middle of an investigation; and when her usual foil, DI Rigby has a sudden heart attack (on scene, no less), Ally is introduced to a new detective with an interesting take on matters. DI Kandahar actually requests her assistance! It seems that DI Rigby actually thought her insights are worth listening to, no matter how many times he said the contrary. AND, there's a personal connection between Rigby and the dead woman!
Of course, all of the attending group come under suspicion, but it's not an easy task for Ally and the DI (along with, of course her loving partner, 'retired' vet Ross) to ferret out all of the motives. Because there seem to be many - accusations of plagiarism, husband stealing, etc. leave no doubt that someone certainly wanted Jodi dead.
As the threads begin to ravel in Ally and DI Kandahar's investigations, another twist - one of the writers confides that she thinks she knows why the author was killed, and ends up deceased herself!
Slowly but surely, all of the pieces of the mystery begin to come together, ending quite dramatically in an 'ah-ha' moment that nearly results in another death.
And in the usual story-within-the-story, Magda, the Countess of Locharran suddenly goes into labour in the middle of the night and Ally and Ross are drafted in as midwives - delivering the long-awaited twin heirs to the earldom.
If you like a fast-paced, fairly bloodless, cozy mystery series, set in a quaint Scottish town with plenty of 'characters', this series is for you. Can be read as a standalone, but books one and two are definitely worth it. Recommended.
We're back at the Auld Malthouse with Ally McKinley, B&B owner and amateur detective.
Welcome back to Locharran, where murder investigations seem to find Ally, no matter how hard she tries to avoid them!
When an all female writers' group comes to town, and bestselling author Jodi Jones and some of her group are booked into Ally's B&B, she takes advantage of an invitation to attend the inaugural get together at the local hotel.
But Ally discovers the author dead in the ladies' room, and she's once again thrown into the middle of an investigation; and when her usual foil, DI Rigby has a sudden heart attack (on scene, no less), Ally is introduced to a new detective with an interesting take on matters. DI Kandahar actually requests her assistance! It seems that DI Rigby actually thought her insights are worth listening to, no matter how many times he said the contrary. AND, there's a personal connection between Rigby and the dead woman!
Of course, all of the attending group come under suspicion, but it's not an easy task for Ally and the DI (along with, of course her loving partner, 'retired' vet Ross) to ferret out all of the motives. Because there seem to be many - accusations of plagiarism, husband stealing, etc. leave no doubt that someone certainly wanted Jodi dead.
As the threads begin to ravel in Ally and DI Kandahar's investigations, another twist - one of the writers confides that she thinks she knows why the author was killed, and ends up deceased herself!
Slowly but surely, all of the pieces of the mystery begin to come together, ending quite dramatically in an 'ah-ha' moment that nearly results in another death.
And in the usual story-within-the-story, Magda, the Countess of Locharran suddenly goes into labour in the middle of the night and Ally and Ross are drafted in as midwives - delivering the long-awaited twin heirs to the earldom.
If you like a fast-paced, fairly bloodless, cozy mystery series, set in a quaint Scottish town with plenty of 'characters', this series is for you. Can be read as a standalone, but books one and two are definitely worth it. Recommended.
July 14, 2025
"I received a free ARC/copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review."
Expected Pub Date: Sept. 19, 2025
___
Our favourite amateur sleuth, Ally McKinley, is back on the case—and this time, things get wonderfully bookish.
A group of writers has gathered in the charming Highland village of Locharran for a writer's retreat, hosted by the famous author and editor, Jodi Jones. But what starts off as a literary getaway soon turns deadly when Jodi is found strangled in the ladies' loo, her beautiful scarf used as the murder weapon. The shocking crime follows a heated accusation of plagiarism from one of the retreat attendees. As the investigation unfolds, another victim is claimed, and with a new detective in town and a fresh cast of suspicious characters, the question is—can Ally piece together the clues in time to stop the killer, or will the culprit slip away once again?
I really enjoyed this cosy murder mystery. One of the things I appreciated straightaway was the thoughtful recap at the beginning, which offers just enough background on Ally and the previous books to bring new readers up to speed—without spoiling the plots of the earlier books. It's a great touch that makes the story accessible, whether you're a returning fan or diving into the series for the first time. Ally is as endearing, nosy and determined as ever, and the small-village setting adds that comforting, close-knit feel that fans of cosy crime love.
The whodunnit plot has that classic charm, with enough twists and red herrings to keep you second-guessing all the way through. The unreliable narrative of Ally's POV definitely adds to the fun—I had my own list of suspects, and while I managed to guess a few correctly, the real killer caught me off guard. It might not have been a jaw-dropping twist, but it was cleverly done and kept me thoroughly engaged. I ended up reading it all in one sitting, and it made for the perfect companion on a rainy afternoon. If you're after a warm, twisty mystery with a lovable heroine and a touch of Highland charm, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Expected Pub Date: Sept. 19, 2025
___
Our favourite amateur sleuth, Ally McKinley, is back on the case—and this time, things get wonderfully bookish.
A group of writers has gathered in the charming Highland village of Locharran for a writer's retreat, hosted by the famous author and editor, Jodi Jones. But what starts off as a literary getaway soon turns deadly when Jodi is found strangled in the ladies' loo, her beautiful scarf used as the murder weapon. The shocking crime follows a heated accusation of plagiarism from one of the retreat attendees. As the investigation unfolds, another victim is claimed, and with a new detective in town and a fresh cast of suspicious characters, the question is—can Ally piece together the clues in time to stop the killer, or will the culprit slip away once again?
I really enjoyed this cosy murder mystery. One of the things I appreciated straightaway was the thoughtful recap at the beginning, which offers just enough background on Ally and the previous books to bring new readers up to speed—without spoiling the plots of the earlier books. It's a great touch that makes the story accessible, whether you're a returning fan or diving into the series for the first time. Ally is as endearing, nosy and determined as ever, and the small-village setting adds that comforting, close-knit feel that fans of cosy crime love.
The whodunnit plot has that classic charm, with enough twists and red herrings to keep you second-guessing all the way through. The unreliable narrative of Ally's POV definitely adds to the fun—I had my own list of suspects, and while I managed to guess a few correctly, the real killer caught me off guard. It might not have been a jaw-dropping twist, but it was cleverly done and kept me thoroughly engaged. I ended up reading it all in one sitting, and it made for the perfect companion on a rainy afternoon. If you're after a warm, twisty mystery with a lovable heroine and a touch of Highland charm, this one is definitely worth picking up.
September 19, 2025
4/5 stars: This is the third entry in MacDonald's Ally McKinley Mystery series which is a British Senior Sleuth B&B Cozy Mystery set in Scotland and features a widowed retired Scottish TV researcher, who's lovingly restored an old malthouse as a guesthouse B&B, once again finds herself turning sleuth after she discovers a well-known novelist, who's hosting a writers' retreat at the local hotel, strangled to death. As she questions her bookish guests, accusations of plagiarism and infidelity start flying and it’s clear that more than one of the retreat attendees had a grudge against the writer. Just when she thinks she’s close to cracking the case, another of the aspiring writers is found dead. She'll have to work fast as someone's desperate to stop her from getting to the truth. With plenty of twists and turns, MacDonald has crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects and weaves in plenty of clues and red herrings that will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Heartfelt and humorous, MacDonald's writing and character work are excellent; the characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable. Ally's a joy and it's great catching up with her, her trusty employees and her friends and neighbors in the quaint village of Locharran. I enjoy seeing her relationship with Ross, the semi-retired veterinarian, continue to grow. Oh and for the animal lover's, Flora, Ally's adorable Labrador puppy, still a sweetie. While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, Murder in the Scottish Highlands.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
September 4, 2025
Once again, Dee MacDonald delivers a delightfully quirky cozy mystery with A Very Bookish Murder. Retired widow Ally McKinley is back in the Scottish Highlands, running her charmingly converted malthouse B&B in the village of Locharran. When she hosts attendees from a nearby writers’ retreat, including the celebrated author Jodi Jones, Ally finds herself swept into another amateur sleuthing adventure after Jodi is shockingly found dead in the hotel’s ladies’ bathroom. With suspicion cast on both her guests and other retreat attendees, Ally must piece together the clues before the murderer strikes again.
MacDonald fills this story with clever twists, red herrings, and a cast of quirky, memorable characters—including some with hidden identities. Fans of the series will be thrilled to see familiar faces like Ally’s hunky vet partner Ross, the eccentric Earl Hamish and his wife Magda, and the trusty cleaner Morag. The village of Locharran feels alive and lived-in, and the cozy yet suspenseful atmosphere perfectly balances intrigue with warmth.
The writing is accessible and engaging, making it easy for new readers to jump into the series without feeling lost, while returning fans will appreciate the continuity and development of Ally’s world. The whodunnit plot is tightly woven, keeping readers guessing until the final reveal, and the blend of humor, village life, and literary intrigue makes it a satisfying, feel-good read.
If you love cozy mysteries with a touch of Scottish charm, a clever amateur sleuth, and a lively ensemble of characters, this book is an absolute delight. Fans of Ian Moore’s Follet Valley Mystery series or Peter Boland’s Charity Shop Detective Agency Mysteries will feel right at home.
MacDonald fills this story with clever twists, red herrings, and a cast of quirky, memorable characters—including some with hidden identities. Fans of the series will be thrilled to see familiar faces like Ally’s hunky vet partner Ross, the eccentric Earl Hamish and his wife Magda, and the trusty cleaner Morag. The village of Locharran feels alive and lived-in, and the cozy yet suspenseful atmosphere perfectly balances intrigue with warmth.
The writing is accessible and engaging, making it easy for new readers to jump into the series without feeling lost, while returning fans will appreciate the continuity and development of Ally’s world. The whodunnit plot is tightly woven, keeping readers guessing until the final reveal, and the blend of humor, village life, and literary intrigue makes it a satisfying, feel-good read.
If you love cozy mysteries with a touch of Scottish charm, a clever amateur sleuth, and a lively ensemble of characters, this book is an absolute delight. Fans of Ian Moore’s Follet Valley Mystery series or Peter Boland’s Charity Shop Detective Agency Mysteries will feel right at home.
October 16, 2025
5 stars
Amateur sleuth Ally McKinley is back at it again - she doesn't look for trouble but it tends to find her anyway. Lochlarran may be a small village in the Scottish highlands but it's no stranger to murder. This time, there is a women writers' retreat happening in town and Ally has befriended some of the ladies staying in her quaint guesthouse while the rest of them are lodging at the Craigmonie Hotel. So when the well-known host of the workshop, Jodi Jones, turns up dead immediately after the first session, Ally decides to once again help the police with their investigation so that she can clear her newfound friends of any wrongdoing. As the case progresses it becomes quite clear that nearly everyone had a motive to kill Jodi. Plagiarism? Infidelity? Hatred? Grudge? Everything is up in the air until a second murder occurs and then things really start to get interesting...
This totally addictive murder mystery will keep you guessing until the very end. With enough twists and turns in the case for even the most ardent of mystery readers, this charming whodunnit left me scratching my head as I tried to unravel the motivations of each of these quirky ladies attending the retreat. We're introduced to another inspector as well in this story, although DI Rigby is still involved tangentially. I genuinely have a hard time putting Dee McDonald's books down because these Ally McKinley cozy mysteries are such a pleasure to read. I can't wait until the next installment in this book series!
Thanks to NetGalley, author Dee McDonald, and Bookouture for granting me access to a free digital ARC of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own and are provided here voluntarily.
Amateur sleuth Ally McKinley is back at it again - she doesn't look for trouble but it tends to find her anyway. Lochlarran may be a small village in the Scottish highlands but it's no stranger to murder. This time, there is a women writers' retreat happening in town and Ally has befriended some of the ladies staying in her quaint guesthouse while the rest of them are lodging at the Craigmonie Hotel. So when the well-known host of the workshop, Jodi Jones, turns up dead immediately after the first session, Ally decides to once again help the police with their investigation so that she can clear her newfound friends of any wrongdoing. As the case progresses it becomes quite clear that nearly everyone had a motive to kill Jodi. Plagiarism? Infidelity? Hatred? Grudge? Everything is up in the air until a second murder occurs and then things really start to get interesting...
This totally addictive murder mystery will keep you guessing until the very end. With enough twists and turns in the case for even the most ardent of mystery readers, this charming whodunnit left me scratching my head as I tried to unravel the motivations of each of these quirky ladies attending the retreat. We're introduced to another inspector as well in this story, although DI Rigby is still involved tangentially. I genuinely have a hard time putting Dee McDonald's books down because these Ally McKinley cozy mysteries are such a pleasure to read. I can't wait until the next installment in this book series!
Thanks to NetGalley, author Dee McDonald, and Bookouture for granting me access to a free digital ARC of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own and are provided here voluntarily.
May 26, 2025
A Very Bookish Murder is the third installment of the Ally McKinley series from Dee MacDonald and it is the quintessential cosy mystery novel.
The story goes like this. Ally is retired and has opened a guest house in the small village of Locharran, in the Scottish Highlands.
Her guests for the week are a group of would-be writers, all attending a retreat hosted by the famous, and, as it turns out, rather divisive, novelist Jodi Jones.
But before the ink has dried on the first workshop notes, Jodi is found strangled in the ladies’ bathroom.
At least seven of the attendees, four of whom are staying with Ally, could be the culprit.
But, it transpires that there were more than a few people with axes to grind against the late Jodi Jones, so who had the strongest motive and who would go so far as to kill her?
-----------
As cosy mysteries go, this is an easy breezy treat. The stage is set, we have our suspects, our amateur sleuth, and plenty of clues along the way to figure out whodunnit.
On the one hand, that's great and exactly what I love; on the other, though, it was a little too easy to unravel, and by three-quarters of the way through, the suspect was very obvious.
That, and as lovely as Ally is, it's also quite incredible that as she whittled down the suspects, it was clear that any of the four in her guesthouse could be a murderer, and it didn't seem to bother her one bit.
So while I thoroughly enjoyed the book for what it is, a fun cosy mystery, the ease with which you can guess the 'who' in the whodunit let it down just a smidge.
With thanks to NetGalley for the early copy in return for an honest review.
The story goes like this. Ally is retired and has opened a guest house in the small village of Locharran, in the Scottish Highlands.
Her guests for the week are a group of would-be writers, all attending a retreat hosted by the famous, and, as it turns out, rather divisive, novelist Jodi Jones.
But before the ink has dried on the first workshop notes, Jodi is found strangled in the ladies’ bathroom.
At least seven of the attendees, four of whom are staying with Ally, could be the culprit.
But, it transpires that there were more than a few people with axes to grind against the late Jodi Jones, so who had the strongest motive and who would go so far as to kill her?
-----------
As cosy mysteries go, this is an easy breezy treat. The stage is set, we have our suspects, our amateur sleuth, and plenty of clues along the way to figure out whodunnit.
On the one hand, that's great and exactly what I love; on the other, though, it was a little too easy to unravel, and by three-quarters of the way through, the suspect was very obvious.
That, and as lovely as Ally is, it's also quite incredible that as she whittled down the suspects, it was clear that any of the four in her guesthouse could be a murderer, and it didn't seem to bother her one bit.
So while I thoroughly enjoyed the book for what it is, a fun cosy mystery, the ease with which you can guess the 'who' in the whodunit let it down just a smidge.
With thanks to NetGalley for the early copy in return for an honest review.
September 19, 2025
This is the third Ally McKinley Mystery book
At which I encourage you do more than look!
A cozy mystery and such a great read
I hope it proves the next book that you need!
Ally has set up a guesthouse in the Highlands
But isn't having the quiet life she'd planned!
She's become an accidental detective there
With more than one murder mystery case to share.
This time her guests are attending a writing retreat
Along with the guest author she can't wait to greet.
Invited to join the group's first session, too,
Unaware of the angst and turmoil it'll put them through.
After accusations and anger come to the fore
Ally is shocked to discover the author is no more.
She's been murdered, that much is clear to see
But by whom that proves to be a mystery!
The killer must be a retreat attendee
But discovering which one won't be easy.
Who it is, Ally is determined to discover
With the help of her puppy and her lover.
Working with the police to search for clues
They hope to find evidence they can use
To identify the killer and arrest them, too,
Before more harm they can do.
A great read, that keeps you turning the pages to discover
Any more revelations and clues you can uncover.
There are surprise revelations and twists galore
As the story unfolds with more clues to explore.
There's drama aplenty in the community, too,
With the laird and neighbours joining all the way through.
I really enjoyed escaping into this book
And hope you'll also do more than just look!
For my copy of this brilliant read I say a big thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.
At which I encourage you do more than look!
A cozy mystery and such a great read
I hope it proves the next book that you need!
Ally has set up a guesthouse in the Highlands
But isn't having the quiet life she'd planned!
She's become an accidental detective there
With more than one murder mystery case to share.
This time her guests are attending a writing retreat
Along with the guest author she can't wait to greet.
Invited to join the group's first session, too,
Unaware of the angst and turmoil it'll put them through.
After accusations and anger come to the fore
Ally is shocked to discover the author is no more.
She's been murdered, that much is clear to see
But by whom that proves to be a mystery!
The killer must be a retreat attendee
But discovering which one won't be easy.
Who it is, Ally is determined to discover
With the help of her puppy and her lover.
Working with the police to search for clues
They hope to find evidence they can use
To identify the killer and arrest them, too,
Before more harm they can do.
A great read, that keeps you turning the pages to discover
Any more revelations and clues you can uncover.
There are surprise revelations and twists galore
As the story unfolds with more clues to explore.
There's drama aplenty in the community, too,
With the laird and neighbours joining all the way through.
I really enjoyed escaping into this book
And hope you'll also do more than just look!
For my copy of this brilliant read I say a big thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.
June 25, 2025
**My thanks to Bookouture for providing me with an advanced review copy via NetGalley**
4 stars
The best Ally McKinley mystery yet! I’m so pleased with Ally, our protagonist, who is finally feeling comfortable in the role of cosy mystery protagonist and no longer like the outsider of her charming Scottish village. There’s also a classic setup here in which there’s a group of wildly different personalities drawn together for a single purpose—a writer’s retreat—one of whom is killed by another in the group. It’s truly fun getting to meet all the different writers in the group, who have vastly different personalities and histories, and suspecting each of them in turn of the murder.
This is a twisty one, but just in terms of all the likely suspects rather than the actual mechanics of the murder being convoluted. Over time I even found myself growing fond of some of the suspects, and I wonder if any might become recurring characters/visitors to Ally’s Aulde Malthouse B&B. On that note, I appreciated that side characters from previous mysteries popped up organically in this book without either taking over the plot or feeling too much like a just-because cameo. Ally’s village feels like a real place, where you will see many of the same people out and about, and friendships form and strengthen over time.
I’d recommend this title to fans of cosies and to book-lovers who enjoy seeing bookish references within a story. I’ll definitely be picking up the next title in the series when it comes out.
4 stars
The best Ally McKinley mystery yet! I’m so pleased with Ally, our protagonist, who is finally feeling comfortable in the role of cosy mystery protagonist and no longer like the outsider of her charming Scottish village. There’s also a classic setup here in which there’s a group of wildly different personalities drawn together for a single purpose—a writer’s retreat—one of whom is killed by another in the group. It’s truly fun getting to meet all the different writers in the group, who have vastly different personalities and histories, and suspecting each of them in turn of the murder.
This is a twisty one, but just in terms of all the likely suspects rather than the actual mechanics of the murder being convoluted. Over time I even found myself growing fond of some of the suspects, and I wonder if any might become recurring characters/visitors to Ally’s Aulde Malthouse B&B. On that note, I appreciated that side characters from previous mysteries popped up organically in this book without either taking over the plot or feeling too much like a just-because cameo. Ally’s village feels like a real place, where you will see many of the same people out and about, and friendships form and strengthen over time.
I’d recommend this title to fans of cosies and to book-lovers who enjoy seeing bookish references within a story. I’ll definitely be picking up the next title in the series when it comes out.
June 8, 2025
A Very Bookish Murder by Dee MacDonald continues the Ally McKinley Cozy Mystery series, this time delivering a whodunit in the quaint Highland village of Locharran with the backdrop of a literary, book-centric event. With her cute puppy Flora and her loyal partner Ross by her side, retired TV researcher‑turned‑guesthouse‑owner Ally finds herself in the middle of a murder in a writers’ retreat, while she is hosting four of the retreat guests at her guesthouse.
When a famous author, Jodi Jones, arrives to lead a retreat at a nearby hotel, Ally needs to play hostess and gets pulled into being part of the event. The event turns, err, eventful when Jodi is discovered strangled in the ladies toilet, which pushes Ally once more into playing an unofficial detective. A second death shortly follows, heightening the stakes and adding layers of plagiarism and infidelity.
MacDonald’s plotting is tight and well-paced. The narrative never drags, maintaining a steady momentum progressing the mystery, interspersed with the lulling routine of afternoon teas, continental breakfasts and running of the B&B. The idyllic backdrop of the Scottish countryside and the slow life adds to the charm of the book.
This was my first MacDonald book, but not having read the other books in this series didn’t distract me from enjoying this cozy mystery.
When a famous author, Jodi Jones, arrives to lead a retreat at a nearby hotel, Ally needs to play hostess and gets pulled into being part of the event. The event turns, err, eventful when Jodi is discovered strangled in the ladies toilet, which pushes Ally once more into playing an unofficial detective. A second death shortly follows, heightening the stakes and adding layers of plagiarism and infidelity.
MacDonald’s plotting is tight and well-paced. The narrative never drags, maintaining a steady momentum progressing the mystery, interspersed with the lulling routine of afternoon teas, continental breakfasts and running of the B&B. The idyllic backdrop of the Scottish countryside and the slow life adds to the charm of the book.
This was my first MacDonald book, but not having read the other books in this series didn’t distract me from enjoying this cozy mystery.
September 16, 2025
When Ally McKinley hears that well-known novelist Jodi Jones is going to host a writers’ retreat at the hotel just down the road, she’s delighted to offer rooms at her little guesthouse for some of the attendees. Ally is thrilled to join the group for one of their first sessions – but the retreat has barely begun before she finds the famous writer strangled in the ladies' bathroom! The air ambulance & the police arrive but DI Bob Ridley doesn’t look well & whilst looking at the body he keels over suffering a heart attack.
The third outing for Ally & she’s settled into the Auld Malthouse, made friends & even found herself ‘a new man’ in semi retired Vet Ross, there’s a new DI Amir Kandahar standing in for the recuperating Bob. A very well written cosy mystery which flowed well & kept me guessing as to who the villain was. I loved that Ally has forged a new life for herself in her 60’s, there’s a good mix of characters living in & near Lochlarran. The ladies attending the writing retreat have various reasons for attending & these are gradually revealed, the climax’s setting was a little different. I also liked how Ally’s relationship with Bob changed & how Amir wanted her help. I look forward to more in the series
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The third outing for Ally & she’s settled into the Auld Malthouse, made friends & even found herself ‘a new man’ in semi retired Vet Ross, there’s a new DI Amir Kandahar standing in for the recuperating Bob. A very well written cosy mystery which flowed well & kept me guessing as to who the villain was. I loved that Ally has forged a new life for herself in her 60’s, there’s a good mix of characters living in & near Lochlarran. The ladies attending the writing retreat have various reasons for attending & these are gradually revealed, the climax’s setting was a little different. I also liked how Ally’s relationship with Bob changed & how Amir wanted her help. I look forward to more in the series
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
September 19, 2025
I had planned a trip to Yorkshire, but had to postpone it due to health issues. Luckily, Dee MacDonald’s A Very Bookish Murder swept me away to Scotland, offering a delightful armchair travel experience: a charming setting, mouthwatering scones, and a likeable, clever amateur sleuth and hostess—Ally McKinley.
Ally is growing more confident in her role as a detective. She balances warmth and wit with a sharper instinct for deception, becoming able not just to manage crises but to anticipate them. Her relationships with friends deepen, and we mustn’t forget Flora, her lovely dog, who adds an extra dose of coziness.
The mystery is satisfyingly complex: a famous novelist is found dead during a writers’ retreat, and nearly every guest has a motive. Ally pieces together secrets and clues with growing skill. The pacing is well handled, the plot twists and red herrings are clever, and the final reveal is both surprising and satisfying.
I especially appreciated how Ally’s empathy becomes a tool for uncovering truths. The suspects are developed in a nuanced way, and Ally reminded me of Miss Marple—she listens, observes, and understands people deeply.
A Very Bookish Murder is a fun and gripping read. Treat yourself and read it!
Many thanks to Bookouture for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Ally is growing more confident in her role as a detective. She balances warmth and wit with a sharper instinct for deception, becoming able not just to manage crises but to anticipate them. Her relationships with friends deepen, and we mustn’t forget Flora, her lovely dog, who adds an extra dose of coziness.
The mystery is satisfyingly complex: a famous novelist is found dead during a writers’ retreat, and nearly every guest has a motive. Ally pieces together secrets and clues with growing skill. The pacing is well handled, the plot twists and red herrings are clever, and the final reveal is both surprising and satisfying.
I especially appreciated how Ally’s empathy becomes a tool for uncovering truths. The suspects are developed in a nuanced way, and Ally reminded me of Miss Marple—she listens, observes, and understands people deeply.
A Very Bookish Murder is a fun and gripping read. Treat yourself and read it!
Many thanks to Bookouture for this ARC, all opinions are mine
September 19, 2025
3 1/2 stars. A very enjoyable mystery set in the Highlands of Scotland where Ally McKinley, retired from being a researcher for television has set up a B&B in a small village where murder unfortunately has become all too common. It hits again during a retreat featuring a somewhat famous writer for other women who want to be published. Of course, the writer is murdered. Is it one of Ally's guests? Ally will have to work hard to figure it out with the help of her cute pup and a new love interest.
I really like Ally who has really taken charge of her retirement to do something completely new in a place very different from Edinburgh where she lived before, particularly because her kids don't get why she would want to. Her kids obviously love her and are very concerned when they find out she is getting involved in solving mysteries but she won't let that stop her.
Good writing, engaging characters and gentle humor make me want to come back for more. My only complaint, a small one, was near the end before the big reveal there were a couple of things that highlighted who the killer was before the reader could really figure out what those clues meant and who they showed the culprit. But it was a small thing. It did keep me guessing until near the end.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
I really like Ally who has really taken charge of her retirement to do something completely new in a place very different from Edinburgh where she lived before, particularly because her kids don't get why she would want to. Her kids obviously love her and are very concerned when they find out she is getting involved in solving mysteries but she won't let that stop her.
Good writing, engaging characters and gentle humor make me want to come back for more. My only complaint, a small one, was near the end before the big reveal there were a couple of things that highlighted who the killer was before the reader could really figure out what those clues meant and who they showed the culprit. But it was a small thing. It did keep me guessing until near the end.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
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