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The Highland Mysteries #3
Lethal Laybys
NC 500 Memories Last A Lifetime.
Unfortunately, Some Campers Don’t.
Joana and Brian, amateur sleuths with cameras in hand, arrive in Inverness with a straightforward a photo reportage on camping along the North Coast 500. The only catch? They have to live it – inside a campervan with not enough space to escape Brian’s banter.
But trouble starts near Wick when they pull into a layby and find a police cordon. A fellow traveller has been found dead in his van. The police are quick to point to a faulty heater, but Joana notices what others have overlooked. Where has the victim’s black Labrador disappeared to? And what’s behind the rumours about the Highland Games athlete and a cheating scandal?
As they search for answers, Joana and Brian are swept up in the NC 500’s patchwork of local a ceilidh in full swing, Highland Games gossip, a cake stall with ‘special biscuits’, a dog show with the waggiest tail, and a campervan rally across the Highlands that attracts every eccentric within a hundred miles.
When a second man is found dead, Joana and Brian must race to uncover the truth before the NC 500 claims another camper.
Lethal Laybys is a cosy mystery steeped in Highland scenery, filled with locals who are anything but ordinary, and laced with dry British wit that surfaces even in the darkest moments. Expect a page-turning plot as winding as the NC 500 itself… and midges that should honestly be on the suspect list.
Perfect for fans of Richard Osman and M.C. Beaton.
Unfortunately, Some Campers Don’t.
Joana and Brian, amateur sleuths with cameras in hand, arrive in Inverness with a straightforward a photo reportage on camping along the North Coast 500. The only catch? They have to live it – inside a campervan with not enough space to escape Brian’s banter.
But trouble starts near Wick when they pull into a layby and find a police cordon. A fellow traveller has been found dead in his van. The police are quick to point to a faulty heater, but Joana notices what others have overlooked. Where has the victim’s black Labrador disappeared to? And what’s behind the rumours about the Highland Games athlete and a cheating scandal?
As they search for answers, Joana and Brian are swept up in the NC 500’s patchwork of local a ceilidh in full swing, Highland Games gossip, a cake stall with ‘special biscuits’, a dog show with the waggiest tail, and a campervan rally across the Highlands that attracts every eccentric within a hundred miles.
When a second man is found dead, Joana and Brian must race to uncover the truth before the NC 500 claims another camper.
Lethal Laybys is a cosy mystery steeped in Highland scenery, filled with locals who are anything but ordinary, and laced with dry British wit that surfaces even in the darkest moments. Expect a page-turning plot as winding as the NC 500 itself… and midges that should honestly be on the suspect list.
Perfect for fans of Richard Osman and M.C. Beaton.
- GenresMystery
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 22, 2026
About the author
Joana Snowdon
7 books6 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
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June 2, 2026A fun and quick read that one can read in the same voracious manner that you might once have brought to Nancy Drew or the Hardy Boys or the Boxcar Children. These books are easy reading and can be sort of a palate cleanser between heavier reads, or perfect for a vacation read!
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
This is a cosy murder mystery that draws the reader in gradually, and sometimes, the crime is secondary to the gorgeous Scottish scenery, the wonderfully chaotic characters of Joana and Brian, and the viewpoints of the local inhabitants.
This time, Joana and Brian are covering the Eco- friendly camping sites along the famous NC500. This will be their third trip to Scotland in two years, and they fervently hope they will not chance upon any dead bodies this time!
Brian is constantly searching for Gluten free food and treats, he is a likeable travelling companion, but is so fussy!
Joana believes she is the rational, and sensible party , but she does have the tendency to jump feet first into perilous situations.
We are not surprised to find that they do have another run- in with Police Scotland after a dead body is discovered. DCI Fraser is less pleased to see them, whereas DS Murray, of the mangled speech ,hopes to gain some useful insights from Joana and Brian.
The murderer is easy to guess, but that doesn’t mean the manner of death is ordinary.
The views of the local population are taken into account in a very sympathetic way. The many problems of this route, has led to mixed blessings for these remote towns and small villages, yes, the tourists bring in much needed income, but the infrastructure cannot cope with problems of parking, toilets, rubbish, and with a shortage of camp sites, there are problems with trespass and unsuitable wild camping.
This book brought back happy memories of our small motorhome, and double bed that coped with two humans and one spoilt Cairn terrier. We learnt that the West coast has spectacular views, but those Highland Midges are really bloodthirsty beasts!!
I love these books, so cheerful and they show the best features of Scotland, which are the friendly people and the curious animals, especially those suicidal sheep.!!
I am so looking forward to the next book in this charming series.
This time, Joana and Brian are covering the Eco- friendly camping sites along the famous NC500. This will be their third trip to Scotland in two years, and they fervently hope they will not chance upon any dead bodies this time!
Brian is constantly searching for Gluten free food and treats, he is a likeable travelling companion, but is so fussy!
Joana believes she is the rational, and sensible party , but she does have the tendency to jump feet first into perilous situations.
We are not surprised to find that they do have another run- in with Police Scotland after a dead body is discovered. DCI Fraser is less pleased to see them, whereas DS Murray, of the mangled speech ,hopes to gain some useful insights from Joana and Brian.
The murderer is easy to guess, but that doesn’t mean the manner of death is ordinary.
The views of the local population are taken into account in a very sympathetic way. The many problems of this route, has led to mixed blessings for these remote towns and small villages, yes, the tourists bring in much needed income, but the infrastructure cannot cope with problems of parking, toilets, rubbish, and with a shortage of camp sites, there are problems with trespass and unsuitable wild camping.
This book brought back happy memories of our small motorhome, and double bed that coped with two humans and one spoilt Cairn terrier. We learnt that the West coast has spectacular views, but those Highland Midges are really bloodthirsty beasts!!
I love these books, so cheerful and they show the best features of Scotland, which are the friendly people and the curious animals, especially those suicidal sheep.!!
I am so looking forward to the next book in this charming series.
July 7, 2026
A fun installment of the Highland Mysteries. A real camping experience including where to charge your electric camper, too close quarters and of course a mystery are in store for Joana and Brian as they seek to photograph and write about the North Coast 500 for a travel asignment. While the police think the dead man is the victim of a faulty heater; Joana wonders about the man's missing dog. Is this murder? There is plenty of gossip of him of fixing the Highland Games that he has been winning that last couple of years. And one of his competitors is very vocal about him cheating. But there are plenty of other questionable things going on on the North Coast 500 that might have brought him to a sticky end. But then another person dies in a camper and his dog disappears. Will Joana and Brian catch a killer before someone else dies?
The mystery kept me guessing until the end, which is always a plus in my book. I really enjoy Joana and Brian's friendship and their banter. There are plenty of quirky characters and fun events that are described. It would be fun to have this camping adventure minus the murders.
One complaint I had was the belligerent camp ground owner. He griped about the dead man leaving bad reviews of his camp ground but the way he acted toward all his clients would have meant plenty of bad reviews. I think he was over the top. It is hard to believe that he would have been able to keep one camp ground, never mind several because of his behavior. When one thing is out of whack it is so noticeable in comparison with the rest of the well-crafted story. He could have been complaining about the bad reviews the guy and even be strict with some of his clients about the rules without being as over the top as he was.
That was one small thing that bothered me. Otherwise, I really enjoyed this mystery and look forward to more Highland Mysteries. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest reivew.
The mystery kept me guessing until the end, which is always a plus in my book. I really enjoy Joana and Brian's friendship and their banter. There are plenty of quirky characters and fun events that are described. It would be fun to have this camping adventure minus the murders.
One complaint I had was the belligerent camp ground owner. He griped about the dead man leaving bad reviews of his camp ground but the way he acted toward all his clients would have meant plenty of bad reviews. I think he was over the top. It is hard to believe that he would have been able to keep one camp ground, never mind several because of his behavior. When one thing is out of whack it is so noticeable in comparison with the rest of the well-crafted story. He could have been complaining about the bad reviews the guy and even be strict with some of his clients about the rules without being as over the top as he was.
That was one small thing that bothered me. Otherwise, I really enjoyed this mystery and look forward to more Highland Mysteries. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest reivew.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
WHO's carrying a grudge that turns deadly?!👀
This is another whimsically entertaining book in a fun cozy mystery series highlighting the sights of the Scottish countryside. It wouldn't be half so enjoyable without Brian Goodfellow, Joana's fellow photographer and travel partner. His whining and buffoonery are just so cute! Whether he's lamenting the lack of charging stations, gobbling down every vegan treat he can get his hands on, or bemoaning the lack of creature comforts in their eco-van, his quirks made me smile. And his adventure at trying his luck at the local Highland Games? Predictably disastrous! He's also not the most discreet or subtle fellow to help investigate a murder.
The author has loaded this one with some memorable characters, caravan parks with a truly disagreeable owner, and social events like Highland Games, Scottish dancing, a dog show and a book auction that bring them together along the NC500, Scotland's main thoroughfare through the sparsely populated northwest of Scotland. And some unfortunates who meet their untimely end when Joana and Brian are just a stone's throw away. It seems the victims provoked someone and it proved deadly. I guessed the culprit a bit ahead of the curve, but the story was so much fun that I didn't mind!
Adventure, humor and an interesting take on camping in a hostile environment (those pesky midges are no joke!). I am definitely looking forward to more in this series.
Thanks to Highland Quill Publishing and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
This is another whimsically entertaining book in a fun cozy mystery series highlighting the sights of the Scottish countryside. It wouldn't be half so enjoyable without Brian Goodfellow, Joana's fellow photographer and travel partner. His whining and buffoonery are just so cute! Whether he's lamenting the lack of charging stations, gobbling down every vegan treat he can get his hands on, or bemoaning the lack of creature comforts in their eco-van, his quirks made me smile. And his adventure at trying his luck at the local Highland Games? Predictably disastrous! He's also not the most discreet or subtle fellow to help investigate a murder.
The author has loaded this one with some memorable characters, caravan parks with a truly disagreeable owner, and social events like Highland Games, Scottish dancing, a dog show and a book auction that bring them together along the NC500, Scotland's main thoroughfare through the sparsely populated northwest of Scotland. And some unfortunates who meet their untimely end when Joana and Brian are just a stone's throw away. It seems the victims provoked someone and it proved deadly. I guessed the culprit a bit ahead of the curve, but the story was so much fun that I didn't mind!
Adventure, humor and an interesting take on camping in a hostile environment (those pesky midges are no joke!). I am definitely looking forward to more in this series.
Thanks to Highland Quill Publishing and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
June 24, 2026
Lethal Laybys is an engaging amateur sleuth, a richly atmospheric setting, memorable supporting characters, and a mystery that kept me guessing until the final reveal.
Travel writer and photographer Joana Snowdon and her long-suffering assistant Brian Goodfellow set out to explore Scotland's famous NC500 route in an eco-friendly campervan, hoping to focus on scenic landscapes, sustainable tourism, and travel journalism. Naturally, things don't go according to plan. Before long, a celebrated Highland Games champion is found dead in his campervan, and what initially appears to be a tragic accident quickly develops into something far more complicated.
Snowdon brings the Scottish Highlands to life with vivid descriptions of winding coastal roads, Highland Games, quirky campsites, local pubs, and the unique culture that makes the region so appealing.
The relationship between Joana and Brian is a highlight of the series. Their witty banter, constant teasing, and genuine friendship add warmth and humor to every chapter. Brian's complaints about campervan life, social media ambitions, and general reluctance to become involved in yet another murder investigation provided some of memorable moments.
Seemingly small details—dogs, local traditions, community relationships, and everyday observations—eventually became important pieces of the puzzle.
Whether you're already a fan of The Highland Mysteries series or discovering Joana Snowdon for the first time, Lethal Laybys is an entertaining, fast-paced cozy mystery that combines travel, humor, and murder most delightfully.
Travel writer and photographer Joana Snowdon and her long-suffering assistant Brian Goodfellow set out to explore Scotland's famous NC500 route in an eco-friendly campervan, hoping to focus on scenic landscapes, sustainable tourism, and travel journalism. Naturally, things don't go according to plan. Before long, a celebrated Highland Games champion is found dead in his campervan, and what initially appears to be a tragic accident quickly develops into something far more complicated.
Snowdon brings the Scottish Highlands to life with vivid descriptions of winding coastal roads, Highland Games, quirky campsites, local pubs, and the unique culture that makes the region so appealing.
The relationship between Joana and Brian is a highlight of the series. Their witty banter, constant teasing, and genuine friendship add warmth and humor to every chapter. Brian's complaints about campervan life, social media ambitions, and general reluctance to become involved in yet another murder investigation provided some of memorable moments.
Seemingly small details—dogs, local traditions, community relationships, and everyday observations—eventually became important pieces of the puzzle.
Whether you're already a fan of The Highland Mysteries series or discovering Joana Snowdon for the first time, Lethal Laybys is an entertaining, fast-paced cozy mystery that combines travel, humor, and murder most delightfully.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Lethal Laybys is the latest book in the Highland Mystery series. I really am enjoying this series! At first, I felt like I needed to know more about the characters, but I understand now that the author just wants to focus on the mystery without other complications. I really enjoy the descriptions of travel in Scotland. It sounds like a wonderful place to visit. I also enjoy that Joana and Brian just jump into a new mystery as if they have just accepted that everywhere they go in Scotland there will be dead bodies! They just seem to know and accept that they are death magnets. I feel like they probably have normal lives back in England, but like to play Agatha Christie when they get to visit Scotland! The mystery in this book was very written with lots of twists and turns. I was surprised by the ending and enjoyed trying to figure out who of the many suspects was the actual perpetrator! Fraser and Murray, the police officers brought unintentional comic relief and the addition of dogs and the dog show was fun too! I look forward to reading more of this series. I believe another book is coming soon!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Lethal laybys" is the third book in Joana Snowdon's cosy mystery series that I've read and once again she delivers a wonderfully entertaining escape to the Scottish Highlands.
This time, Joana and her ever chaotic assistant Brian head to Inverness for what should be a simple assignment: a photo reportage on camping along NC500 - but as usual, trouble finds them fast. When the caber toss champion of the Highland Games is murdered, the duo cannot resist getting involved, much to the despair of long suffering DCI Fraser and the amusement of DC Murray.
As bodies start piling up, the author takes the reader on a scenic tour of the NC500, complete with quirky locals, dogs, sweets with a twist and plenty of sharp banter. The atmosphere is vivid, the humor lands and the mystery keeps the pages turning.
I really enjoyed this book, it's funny, charming and full of Highland character. My only gripe is Brian's talent for saying the wrong thing at the worst possible moment, but honestly, that's part of what makes him who he is.
**I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This time, Joana and her ever chaotic assistant Brian head to Inverness for what should be a simple assignment: a photo reportage on camping along NC500 - but as usual, trouble finds them fast. When the caber toss champion of the Highland Games is murdered, the duo cannot resist getting involved, much to the despair of long suffering DCI Fraser and the amusement of DC Murray.
As bodies start piling up, the author takes the reader on a scenic tour of the NC500, complete with quirky locals, dogs, sweets with a twist and plenty of sharp banter. The atmosphere is vivid, the humor lands and the mystery keeps the pages turning.
I really enjoyed this book, it's funny, charming and full of Highland character. My only gripe is Brian's talent for saying the wrong thing at the worst possible moment, but honestly, that's part of what makes him who he is.
**I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Joana and Brian are off on another adventure in Scotland. This time, they are working on an article about eco camping and will be traveling in a very small electric camper van. Besides the hilarious descriptions of the two of them sharing such a small space, worrying about having enough charge to get to the next charging point, and staying at campsites with the world’s most obnoxious host, they see beautiful sights and enjoy a Highland Games. Unfortunately, the next day, they find out that the caber toss champion died in his luxury motor home. Joana doesn’t believe it is an accident and she and Brian do some sleuthing while enjoying the trip. There are more deaths before Joana uncovers the murderer.
This is such a fun series to read. Brian is a fun sidekick, with his desire to add to his followers and his vegan appetite. Murray, the officer with his mixed up speech, and the grumpy inspector just add to the fun.
Thanks to Highland Quill Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
This is such a fun series to read. Brian is a fun sidekick, with his desire to add to his followers and his vegan appetite. Murray, the officer with his mixed up speech, and the grumpy inspector just add to the fun.
Thanks to Highland Quill Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy
This is another fun read in what is turning out to be a terrific series. This time our duo are doing an article for eco-tourism in Scotland and set out in what they call their electric cupboard to document their travels. They encounter the worst campsite host you can imagine and also of course are on the scene when a highland games competitor is found dead, and his dog missing. The discovery soon afterwards of a second body escalates things and DI Fraser is not impressed to find Joana and Brian once again on the scene.
I loved the setting here around the NC500 and the whole set of characters throughout, with a great sense of community spirit despite the murders. There's plenty of humour here, and how these two have not managed to throttle each other yet despite being in such close proximity to each other astounds me! I loved the reveal of the killer at the end and can't wait to see what comes next for these two.
I loved the setting here around the NC500 and the whole set of characters throughout, with a great sense of community spirit despite the murders. There's plenty of humour here, and how these two have not managed to throttle each other yet despite being in such close proximity to each other astounds me! I loved the reveal of the killer at the end and can't wait to see what comes next for these two.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A cozy murder in a beautiful British setting.
Joana and Brian are in the Highlands, when they are drawn into investigating a series of murders.
Thank you to NetGalley and Highland Quill publishing for the ARC. My review is voluntary.
This is the third book in this series but can be read as a standalone.
The beautiful setting of this book is very much the star in this book. Added to this our sleuths are travelling the North Coast 500 in a camper van, which will be an ambition of many readers.
As with the first two books in the series the secondary characters are the standout success. They are a diverse and entertaining. Unfortunately, the main characters remain one dimensional. Brian defined only by his veganism and Murray by his malapropisms. The biggest issue is with Joana , who we still know nothing about other than that she is a bit overbearing.
This series has so much potential and it will appeal to anyone seeking a light hearted puzzle in a picturesque British setting.
Joana and Brian are in the Highlands, when they are drawn into investigating a series of murders.
Thank you to NetGalley and Highland Quill publishing for the ARC. My review is voluntary.
This is the third book in this series but can be read as a standalone.
The beautiful setting of this book is very much the star in this book. Added to this our sleuths are travelling the North Coast 500 in a camper van, which will be an ambition of many readers.
As with the first two books in the series the secondary characters are the standout success. They are a diverse and entertaining. Unfortunately, the main characters remain one dimensional. Brian defined only by his veganism and Murray by his malapropisms. The biggest issue is with Joana , who we still know nothing about other than that she is a bit overbearing.
This series has so much potential and it will appeal to anyone seeking a light hearted puzzle in a picturesque British setting.
June 27, 2026
The NC 500, a breathtaking 516-mile route that takes in the north coast of Scotland, is the subject of Joana's research. Focusing on camping, she and Brian, her assistant, travel the roads, meeting colourful individuals. When one of them dies in mysterious circumstances, Joana finds that making sense of the clues is much harder than it seems.
This series has become my passport to the Scottish Highlands. With its spectacular scenery and fearsome atmosphere, could there be a better place to commit a murder?
This third book reunites the main characters from the earlier books and sets them off on an enthralling journey. I find that each book builds on the others and always feels like the best one in the series. Lethal Laybys was no exception.
Thank you to Joana Snowdon and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this complimentary copy. As always, my opinions are my own, honest and true.
This series has become my passport to the Scottish Highlands. With its spectacular scenery and fearsome atmosphere, could there be a better place to commit a murder?
This third book reunites the main characters from the earlier books and sets them off on an enthralling journey. I find that each book builds on the others and always feels like the best one in the series. Lethal Laybys was no exception.
Thank you to Joana Snowdon and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this complimentary copy. As always, my opinions are my own, honest and true.
Review of advance copy
Lethal Laybys is Book 3 in The Highland Mysteries by Joana Snowdon. Joana and Brian are fun characters. They are busy sleuthing and they always have their camera to catch the action… unfortunately, some of the campers don't! On this trip, they are going to photograph a camping on N Coast 500. The only draw back is they must live it inside a capervan. I have enjoyed this series and enjoy reading about Joana and Brian's adventures in Scotland. In this mystery, A man is dead in his van, but, his Labrador is missing. I believe that thus cozy mystery is an excellent mystery series. The author takes her readers on a trip to Scotland right along with the characters in her story. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
June 23, 2026
In this adventure we're on the road with Brian and Joana in a teeny-tiny electric RV. It's enjoyable to be part of their friendly bickering and bantering about the undersized accommodations. When someone they recently met ends up dead, however, their attention quickly shifts gears (much to Brian's dismay). Joana's tendency to see things others miss makes her an excellent amateur sleuth.. there are plenty of suspects traveling along with them to keep our duo busy, and that's before more bodies start dropping. Motives vary as vastly as the suspects. This complex and intriguing mystery kept me actively engaged and asking questions all the way through. Can you identify the culprit(s) before Joana?
I was gifted a copy of this book and voluntarily provided this review. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
I was gifted a copy of this book and voluntarily provided this review. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
June 28, 2026
This story in the series affected me differently than the previous two books. I wanted the culprit to be evil, vile, and corrupt, but I was bereft when I found out whodunit!!!! The rationale is perfect. The people murdered were the ones who were vile, evil, and corrupt but sadly even "good" vigilante justice is not legal!! I didn't know how to feel after I finished the book. I thought long and hard, and I still see this as a needed action by someone who was selfless. It benefited others for those vile people to be gone from the planet. It was a necessary evil, and this person was strong enough to do the job. Kudos…
I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This Jo & Brian's 3rd trip to Scotland in 2 years. They're going on an 'Eco friendly' camping trip along the NC500. Can you see Brian doing that? In their last 2 trips they discovered 6 murder victims. How many will they find with this one? They go to pick up their ecofriendly camping trailer and both their jaws drop when they see it. She told them it was for 2 people and this will barely hold one person. The only truly accurate thing about it is it's Eco friendliness; it's electric. Prepare for a very entertaining trip and start reading today. Joana Snowden has earned herself another 5* review!
Read on 05/07/26.
Read on 05/07/26.
Review of advance copy
The third full novel in this series and the author brought me back to the Highlands once again. Thank you for the vibes and both known and new places I visited through this book! Some of them are on my list for my next visit!
The mystery is a red thread throughout the entire book, which keeps you turning the pages, interspersed with lovely local characters, plenty of food, sweet dogs and great banter. Brian's inability to keep quiet is getting to hilarious levels in this one.
It's another 5 star read for me and I can't wait to read more in this series!
The mystery is a red thread throughout the entire book, which keeps you turning the pages, interspersed with lovely local characters, plenty of food, sweet dogs and great banter. Brian's inability to keep quiet is getting to hilarious levels in this one.
It's another 5 star read for me and I can't wait to read more in this series!
Review of advance copy
This is the third book featuring Joana and Brian, this time writing an article on NC 500 travelling in an eco trailer. However, very soon a body appears, and the duo are drawn into investing another death - much to the disgust of our favourite DI!
Although this is the third book in a series, and the characters are familiar, I think it would work very well as a stand alone too, so don't be put off if you haven't read the earlier ones.
The plot moves at a good pace, and there are lots of strands to keep it interesting.
Would definitely recommend this book.
Although this is the third book in a series, and the characters are familiar, I think it would work very well as a stand alone too, so don't be put off if you haven't read the earlier ones.
The plot moves at a good pace, and there are lots of strands to keep it interesting.
Would definitely recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
I absolutely love this series. Joana writes such and entertaining story. Not only are all the character you meet along the way unique and interesting. Joana clearly has a love and appreciation of the Scottish Highlands and that comes through in each book in this series. I often stop and look up the locations Joana and Brian visit along the way. I especially loved this story as I’m a big fan of camping. Throw in a good mystery and I was gaining from the first page until the last.
I absolutely love this series. Joana writes such and entertaining story. Not only are all the character you meet along the way unique and interesting. Joana clearly has a love and appreciation of the Scottish Highlands and that comes through in each book in this series. I often stop and look up the locations Joana and Brian visit along the way. I especially loved this story as I’m a big fan of camping. Throw in a good mystery and I was gaining from the first page until the last.
June 27, 2026
Lethal Layby's is the 3rd book in the Highland Mysteries book series. This was a very intriguing mystery (I didn't get whoduneit until the end!) and it was an enjoyable journey thru the country of Scotland on the NC500 (I imagine similar to our Route 66 but in Scotland). The characters are enjoyable and Brian cracks me up with his snacking & snark. While it is the 3rd in the series (and I recommend all of them!), it could easily be read as a standalone book, so head off on a camping road trip in Scotland!! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This series caught my attention with the mention of the “Highlands”, but it’s the characters and writing that keeps me coming back for more! I love the writing and the way the characters engage with each other…I can just see them in the camper van and traveling along their route. I’m engaged from page one until I turn the last page and am looking for when the next book will be available to read. There is nothing to not love in this series!
July 1, 2026
What should have been a simple job, travelling the North Coast 500 and camping along the way, whilst completing a photography assignment, turns out to be anything but.
The weather, close proximity to each other, the midges ad then a dead body is only the start of the drama.
I loved the dynamic between Joana and Brian, which gave the writing depth whilst adding a touch of humour. The plot is well written and crafted. Overall an enjoyable read.
The weather, close proximity to each other, the midges ad then a dead body is only the start of the drama.
I loved the dynamic between Joana and Brian, which gave the writing depth whilst adding a touch of humour. The plot is well written and crafted. Overall an enjoyable read.
June 23, 2026
Scottish Highland games, a dog sho, Camping grounds and dead bodies wrapped up all into one book with very dry and dark British sense of humor at the most inappropriate times, but thats just the way things are in Britain and it's infectious to put it mildly. This book will have you laughing out loud and going " ooohhhhh" as you can't stop turning the page.
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