What do you think?
Rate this book
The Highland Mysteries #2
Amber Warning
Not yet published
Expected 1 Jun 26Hebridean Storms Take Your Breath Away.
Sometimes Permanently.
Joana and Brian, the curious sleuthing duo, set off once more. This time, their promise is absolutely no bodies. Just stunning Hebridean views and a peaceful workshop exploring Lewis and Harris with their photography group. They should have known better.
From the moment they arrive, it’s clear the guests are more interested in each other’s secrets than in the scenery. Secrets simmer, and someone is desperate to keep them buried.
Then the Atlantic throws an Amber Warning at them, and a guest is found dead in the stables. The local police shrug it off as a tragic accident, but Joana notices details that don’t quite fit. The storm didn’t kill the victim. Someone in their group did.
With the storm cutting them off from the mainland, Joana and Brian find themselves stranded with a murderer. Their search for answers takes them from the ancient Callanish Stones to the wide sands of Luskentyre, following clues while the wind tries its best to drown out any conversation. Time is once the weather clears, the killer will be first in line for the ferry.
Amber Warning is a travel-infused, twisty cosy mystery packed with breathtaking Scottish scenery, clever clues, and sharp British wit. Expect page-turning suspense, laugh-out-loud banter, endless cups of tea, and the occasional splash of whisky.
Perfect for fans of Richard Osman and M.C. Beaton.
Sometimes Permanently.
Joana and Brian, the curious sleuthing duo, set off once more. This time, their promise is absolutely no bodies. Just stunning Hebridean views and a peaceful workshop exploring Lewis and Harris with their photography group. They should have known better.
From the moment they arrive, it’s clear the guests are more interested in each other’s secrets than in the scenery. Secrets simmer, and someone is desperate to keep them buried.
Then the Atlantic throws an Amber Warning at them, and a guest is found dead in the stables. The local police shrug it off as a tragic accident, but Joana notices details that don’t quite fit. The storm didn’t kill the victim. Someone in their group did.
With the storm cutting them off from the mainland, Joana and Brian find themselves stranded with a murderer. Their search for answers takes them from the ancient Callanish Stones to the wide sands of Luskentyre, following clues while the wind tries its best to drown out any conversation. Time is once the weather clears, the killer will be first in line for the ferry.
Amber Warning is a travel-infused, twisty cosy mystery packed with breathtaking Scottish scenery, clever clues, and sharp British wit. Expect page-turning suspense, laugh-out-loud banter, endless cups of tea, and the occasional splash of whisky.
Perfect for fans of Richard Osman and M.C. Beaton.
269 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication June 1, 2026
About the author
Joana Snowdon
5 books4 followersI live on the coast of the North Sea in North East Scotland, where the salty air and endless horizon are the perfect companions for dreaming up a cosy mystery.
In my previous life, I worked as a journalist and travelled the world. These days, you’re more likely to find me in my garden with a pen and paper than on a plane. I don't write in an old-fashioned way, but I still love to plan my plots and clues with something I can actually hold. When I head out into the Highlands, I usually bring a thermos of green tea and something vegan that is easy to pack for a picnic (I love eating!). And if this sounds familiar… well… yes. Admittedly, I am a bit like Brian. I like my drama and my snacks. But I’m also a bit like my other main character, Joana, who shares my name. I can be dry, often sarcastic, and sometimes a little annoying.
My stories are of course fiction, but they draw heavily on my real experiences in the Scottish hills. Thankfully, there aren’t nearly as many dead bodies in real life, though many of my quirkier characters are inspired by the wonderful people I’ve met.
I’ve chosen the Highland Coo as the symbol for The Highland Mysteries because, to me, there isn’t a more magnificent animal in the world. They are wild, beautiful, and never really tamed. Just like Scotland itself. (Plus their hairstyle looks pretty much like mine after a sleepless night of plotting, so they have my sympathy.)
While my books are full of secrets and the occasional corpse, I promise to skip the grisly details. I believe there’s enough gloom in the world already. My goal is to give you an escape: a clever twist, a bit of amusement, and a chance to laugh before you return to reality.
Cheers, Joana
In my previous life, I worked as a journalist and travelled the world. These days, you’re more likely to find me in my garden with a pen and paper than on a plane. I don't write in an old-fashioned way, but I still love to plan my plots and clues with something I can actually hold. When I head out into the Highlands, I usually bring a thermos of green tea and something vegan that is easy to pack for a picnic (I love eating!). And if this sounds familiar… well… yes. Admittedly, I am a bit like Brian. I like my drama and my snacks. But I’m also a bit like my other main character, Joana, who shares my name. I can be dry, often sarcastic, and sometimes a little annoying.
My stories are of course fiction, but they draw heavily on my real experiences in the Scottish hills. Thankfully, there aren’t nearly as many dead bodies in real life, though many of my quirkier characters are inspired by the wonderful people I’ve met.
I’ve chosen the Highland Coo as the symbol for The Highland Mysteries because, to me, there isn’t a more magnificent animal in the world. They are wild, beautiful, and never really tamed. Just like Scotland itself. (Plus their hairstyle looks pretty much like mine after a sleepless night of plotting, so they have my sympathy.)
While my books are full of secrets and the occasional corpse, I promise to skip the grisly details. I believe there’s enough gloom in the world already. My goal is to give you an escape: a clever twist, a bit of amusement, and a chance to laugh before you return to reality.
Cheers, Joana
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
Read
May 8, 2026A fun cozy mystery that's a variation on a locked-room plot. What I like about Joana Snowdon's mysteries is that she drops in plenty of nuggets of Scottish culture along the way.
Thanks to the author via BookSirens for this review copy.
Thanks to the author via BookSirens for this review copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A cozy murder in a beautiful British setting.
Thank you to the author and the publisher. My review is voluntary
Joana and Brian are in the Hebrides running a photography workshop. When one of their clients dies the unlikely sleuthing duo suspect foul play
This is the second book in this series but can be read as a standalone.
The first book in series had the structure of a travelogue, this is more of a locked room mystery. All credit to the author for experimenting with different frameworks . As with the first book in the series the descriptions of the countryside and atmospherics of the surroundings are excellent. although very well done I feel the the storm troupe is a rather jaded one. For instance "somethings brewing and I don't just mean the weather"
The very British wit comes more to the fore in this second book and definitely raises a smile .
In Amber Warning the secondary characters are the standout success. They are a diverse and entertaining group.
Brian's character continues to revolve solely around being a vegan. He is becoming more endearing but we need to hear more about him than just his compulsive snacking. Unfortunately the weak point is still Joana . In a cozy it is imperative to feel fondly towards the main protagonist even if they are flawed. the problem is we do not have a very full picture of Joana. Their is little in the way of inner dialogue and reflection and the other characters have little to say about her . The exception is Fraser, who quite understandably finds her annoying. Unfortunately Joana comes across as a bossy woman, who bulldozers her way through situations stealing evidence from crime scenes and publicly criticizing her companion.
On a more positive note, this series is definitely improving. This book will appeal to anyone seeking a light hearted puzzle in a picturesque British setting.
Thank you to the author and the publisher. My review is voluntary
Joana and Brian are in the Hebrides running a photography workshop. When one of their clients dies the unlikely sleuthing duo suspect foul play
This is the second book in this series but can be read as a standalone.
The first book in series had the structure of a travelogue, this is more of a locked room mystery. All credit to the author for experimenting with different frameworks . As with the first book in the series the descriptions of the countryside and atmospherics of the surroundings are excellent. although very well done I feel the the storm troupe is a rather jaded one. For instance "somethings brewing and I don't just mean the weather"
The very British wit comes more to the fore in this second book and definitely raises a smile .
In Amber Warning the secondary characters are the standout success. They are a diverse and entertaining group.
Brian's character continues to revolve solely around being a vegan. He is becoming more endearing but we need to hear more about him than just his compulsive snacking. Unfortunately the weak point is still Joana . In a cozy it is imperative to feel fondly towards the main protagonist even if they are flawed. the problem is we do not have a very full picture of Joana. Their is little in the way of inner dialogue and reflection and the other characters have little to say about her . The exception is Fraser, who quite understandably finds her annoying. Unfortunately Joana comes across as a bossy woman, who bulldozers her way through situations stealing evidence from crime scenes and publicly criticizing her companion.
On a more positive note, this series is definitely improving. This book will appeal to anyone seeking a light hearted puzzle in a picturesque British setting.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Amber warning is a gripping, fast paced murder mystery set against the wild and atmospheric backdrop of Scotland's Harris Island during a storm. From the very beginning, the novel pulls you into a tense and isolated setting that perfectly complements the unfolding crimes.
At the heart of the story is a sharp and engaging protagonist whose intelligence and determination makes her instantly likable. Teaming up with her assistant, she sets out to uncover the truth behind the murder of one of the participants in her photography workshop. The dynamic between the two adds both warmth and momentum to the investigation.
The author does an excellent job crafting a cast of suspects, each harboring their own dark secrets. This layered characterization keeps the reader constantly guessing, as motives and alibis shift throughout the story. The interaction between the protagonist and DCI Fraser and DC Murray are particularly enjoyable, filled with witty dialogue.
One of the novel's qualities is its ability to maintain suspense until the very end. Just when you think you have pieced everything together, the story takes another turn, keeping the mystery alive and engaging.
Beyond the plot, the book also offers a vivid sense of place. Through the narrative, the readers are taken on a mental journey across Harris Island, discovering its rugged beauty and notable landmarks, which enriches the overall reading experience.
Overall, this book is a compelling and entertaining mystery, combining a strong central character, a cleverly constructed plot and an evocative setting. It's a great choice for readers who enjoy atmospheric whodunits with plenty of twists and memorable characters.
**I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
At the heart of the story is a sharp and engaging protagonist whose intelligence and determination makes her instantly likable. Teaming up with her assistant, she sets out to uncover the truth behind the murder of one of the participants in her photography workshop. The dynamic between the two adds both warmth and momentum to the investigation.
The author does an excellent job crafting a cast of suspects, each harboring their own dark secrets. This layered characterization keeps the reader constantly guessing, as motives and alibis shift throughout the story. The interaction between the protagonist and DCI Fraser and DC Murray are particularly enjoyable, filled with witty dialogue.
One of the novel's qualities is its ability to maintain suspense until the very end. Just when you think you have pieced everything together, the story takes another turn, keeping the mystery alive and engaging.
Beyond the plot, the book also offers a vivid sense of place. Through the narrative, the readers are taken on a mental journey across Harris Island, discovering its rugged beauty and notable landmarks, which enriches the overall reading experience.
Overall, this book is a compelling and entertaining mystery, combining a strong central character, a cleverly constructed plot and an evocative setting. It's a great choice for readers who enjoy atmospheric whodunits with plenty of twists and memorable characters.
**I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
On the Isle of Harris in Scotland is a village of Hebrides. Joana and Brian are doing a photography seminar and staying at the Golden View Retreat. There are only a handful of photographers, but what they lack in number their larger than life personalities makes them a handful. Jean-Luc is always starting harsh feelings to everyone. No one knows food, whisky, wine, even gardening like the French. Ilsa, their hostess knows one person from the past and is now attracted to Jean-Luc. The men have their arguments in small snips and insults.The first day out there is an Amber alert and Joana tells them they should end the walk and head inside. Of course Jean-Luc ignores her and wanders into Ilsa's garden searching for something. What he is after is a family herb kept secret from the world and considered rare. To what length will someone go to protect that secret. Carson is her handyman who has a past. The storm hits and guests are in and out, getting soaked even standing on the patio.There was a note from someone to Jean-Luc and a while after a horse scream from the barn. Joana and Brian run to the barn and find which horsebox has the scared horse. They cannot get it open, someone has shoved a wedge to lock the door shut. When it breaks free, out tumbles the body of Jean-luc. Local police are zero help and Joana knows they have a murder and need real police, Talks to DCI Fraser, who has a bur in his saddle named Joanna. He will be out, but when? A storm and amber alert seems nothing can come or go from the Island so they have to wwait 2 days. Joanna cannot let time pass and starts her own investigation. Who know so few people could have so many secrets. I really enjoyed this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Great atmosphere🌊☔
I found the mystery unpredictable right through to the end. And the author has come up with a fun pair of photographer/amateur detectives in lead characters Joana Snowdon and her sidekick ever-hungry vegan Brian Goodfellow pitted against an irascible DCI Fraser and idiom-challenged DC Murray.
In one sense, this is sort of an Agatha Christie type isolated venue mystery. Death strikes and, even if they wanted to, the guests and retreat employees can't leave because of a powerful storm system blowing in from the Atlantic. But the group attending amateur detective Joana Snowdon's photography retreat, for the most part marooned at their hotel thanks to the weather, get to experience the stark beauty and ancient landmarks of Harris and Lewis and I thought the author did a fantastic job immersing me in the island atmosphere. After recently reading a different novel set on Harris, Amber Warning brought me back to familiar territory with Callanish Stone Circle, pristine beaches, roaming sheep, windswept land and seascapes and traditional tweed weaving.
A very entertaining cozy mystery lightened up by Brian's moans and antics.
Thanks to Highland Quill Publishing and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
I found the mystery unpredictable right through to the end. And the author has come up with a fun pair of photographer/amateur detectives in lead characters Joana Snowdon and her sidekick ever-hungry vegan Brian Goodfellow pitted against an irascible DCI Fraser and idiom-challenged DC Murray.
In one sense, this is sort of an Agatha Christie type isolated venue mystery. Death strikes and, even if they wanted to, the guests and retreat employees can't leave because of a powerful storm system blowing in from the Atlantic. But the group attending amateur detective Joana Snowdon's photography retreat, for the most part marooned at their hotel thanks to the weather, get to experience the stark beauty and ancient landmarks of Harris and Lewis and I thought the author did a fantastic job immersing me in the island atmosphere. After recently reading a different novel set on Harris, Amber Warning brought me back to familiar territory with Callanish Stone Circle, pristine beaches, roaming sheep, windswept land and seascapes and traditional tweed weaving.
A very entertaining cozy mystery lightened up by Brian's moans and antics.
Thanks to Highland Quill Publishing and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Amber Warning is set on Isle of Harris in the Hebrides and a storm is coming (the amber warning). Joana and Brian are leading a photography retreat on the Isle and everyone is staying at a local farmhouse turned B&B. The accommodations are a little rougher than expected, but the setting is beautiful. And then there’s the retreat group who are an interesting and diverse bunch. There is immediately some friction and when a member dies, Joana and Brian begin to investigate after the local police consider the death an accident.
I love the characters…Joana is bright and notices details while Brian is entertaining with his bumbling ways (except when it comes to digging out information on the internet). The setting is like reading a travelogue of the area and full of the local history. I was glad to see that Murray was back with his inability to get sayings correct and his earnestness! The mystery was intriguing and there were several possible suspects to sort through. If you enjoy mysteries with fun characters in amazing settings, you’ll enjoy this one.
Thanks to Highland Quill Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
I love the characters…Joana is bright and notices details while Brian is entertaining with his bumbling ways (except when it comes to digging out information on the internet). The setting is like reading a travelogue of the area and full of the local history. I was glad to see that Murray was back with his inability to get sayings correct and his earnestness! The mystery was intriguing and there were several possible suspects to sort through. If you enjoy mysteries with fun characters in amazing settings, you’ll enjoy this one.
Thanks to Highland Quill Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
May 17, 2026
I am an ARC reader for Book Sirens and this is my honest opinion. Like the first in this series, this book in essentially a good Cozy mystery. Like book 1, it had everything the Cozy reader could want. Joann, a professional photographer and Brian, her ever hungry assistant, both vegan (mentioned quite frequently) are leading a photography workshop on the Hebridean island, Harris. The venue wasn't quite what they expected -a farmhouse with home cooked food but very basic, the proprietor a struggling divorcée who doesn't go to church on Sunday and therefore an outcast. With two murders, one after the other, howling storms keeping the group stranded, then the two policemen from the mainland - it's a perfect set piece. There are beautiful descriptions of the island, almost like a travel advertisement in itself, and our intrepid pair are on the trail, leaving me wondering how DCI Fraser ever got to his rank without them. A good read that doesn't tax the brain too much
Review of advance copy
This is a terrific follow-up in the series. This time Joana and Brian are off to Lewis and Harris for their photography workshop. It soon becomes clear that the attendees are all not quite what they seem and when there's an amber warning which proves accurate, the isolated location proves not as idyllic as they hoped when one of the attendees is found murdered. The local police are quick to write it off as an accident but Joana thinks different.
I loved the location and the sense of isolation and entrapment throughout the book. I flip-flopped between who I thought the killer was but the second murder threw a spanner in the works. This is a humourous read although Brian is quite annoying but I love how Joana gets under the detective's skin over and over. I look forward to seeing where this duo go next and what awaits.
I loved the location and the sense of isolation and entrapment throughout the book. I flip-flopped between who I thought the killer was but the second murder threw a spanner in the works. This is a humourous read although Brian is quite annoying but I love how Joana gets under the detective's skin over and over. I look forward to seeing where this duo go next and what awaits.
Review of advance copy
Another entertaining cosy mystery with Joana and Brian.
This time the duo are hosting a photography workshop in the highland and islands when an Amber weather warning hits, and the guests are cut off- and then one is found dead.
The local police are keen to call it an accident, but the duo are far from convinced. And when another body is discovered, they are in a race against time to find the murderer before any more bodies appear.
A good pace, reminds me of a locked room mystery.
Nice to see familiar characters returning, and there is a good pace to the novel. Would recommend.
Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an advanced copy to read and review
This time the duo are hosting a photography workshop in the highland and islands when an Amber weather warning hits, and the guests are cut off- and then one is found dead.
The local police are keen to call it an accident, but the duo are far from convinced. And when another body is discovered, they are in a race against time to find the murderer before any more bodies appear.
A good pace, reminds me of a locked room mystery.
Nice to see familiar characters returning, and there is a good pace to the novel. Would recommend.
Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an advanced copy to read and review
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Joana and Brian make me want to get on a plane, fly to Scotland and rent a car to drive all over. Of course while a cozy mystery is fun in the series, I’ll keep my murders in a book though…and this one is a great way to do just that.
The author does a great job of tying in Scottish terms and events that make you feel like you’re right there as you immerse yourself into the book and start sleuthing along side our protagonists. Filled with twist, turns, and an engaging story, you’ll find yourself longing to head over and see Scotland for yourself as well.
The author does a great job of tying in Scottish terms and events that make you feel like you’re right there as you immerse yourself into the book and start sleuthing along side our protagonists. Filled with twist, turns, and an engaging story, you’ll find yourself longing to head over and see Scotland for yourself as well.
Review of advance copy
The second book in this series and I love all the details about Scotland that are plenty but not overdone. While following along with the mystery, you get to learn or relive a lot of Scottish details that make Scotland so unique.
The mystery is filled with twists and turns that make you doubt the hints you think you see. I love this writing style, the author takes you along and keeps you immersed in the story.
Can't wait to read more in this series!
The mystery is filled with twists and turns that make you doubt the hints you think you see. I love this writing style, the author takes you along and keeps you immersed in the story.
Can't wait to read more in this series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a fun compelling cozy mystery. I loved the atmosphere of the Scottish Island, the little hotel/farm setting and the interesting set of characters. If you like cozy mysteries I would highly recommend this book. There were many laughing out loud parts in this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another Highland mystery! I love the settings of these books. Joana and Brian are leading a workshop full of eccentric characters when a particularly combative person is found dead. As they investigate, the find lots of motives for why people would want to murder the victim.
An enjoyable mystery with a great setting. Thanks to #HighlandQuillPublishing and #NetGalley for the ARC
An enjoyable mystery with a great setting. Thanks to #HighlandQuillPublishing and #NetGalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received a free copy of, Amber Warning. by Joana Snowdon, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book two in The Highland Mysteries series. Joana and Brian are on vacation when someone is murdered. now they have a mystery to solve in beautiful Scotland. This was a nice cozy mystery with a beautiful setting.
Read
May 23, 2026Another fun read in the series! Some of the characters develop nicely, the plot is interesting enough, and there are enough twists and surprises to make this an enjoyable light read. For me, much of the enjoyment is “experiencing” the Scottish Highlands - something I might never otherwise do!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An Amber Warning storm was tearing its way across the Hebrides in Scotland. A group of 7 photography students arrived to join the 2 instructors at a Scottish spa called 'The Golden View Retreat'. This photography class was a disaster of epic proportions. It's a great story with a plot full of twists and turns. I highly recommend it.
I am an ARC reader.
Read on 04/09/26.
I am an ARC reader.
Read on 04/09/26.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Very creative, beautiful descriptions, and intense characters. It kept my attention through to the surprising end!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews