What do you think?
Rate this book
The Highland Mysteries #4
Respectable Murders: A Scottish Castle Cosy Mystery
Not yet published
Expected 4 Aug 26Easy To Fall In Love With Scotland. Harder To Survive The Fall.
Joana has just about managed to unpack her kettle in her new Aberdeenshire cottage when DCI Fraser arrives with an inconvenient favour to ask. Someone is picking off the guests at Lord Montgomery's exclusive Highland matchmaking events… And Fraser needs Joana and Brian to ask awkward questions without causing a scandal within the Scottish aristocracy.
What follows is an investigation that takes them from crumbling castles and foggy clifftops to tartan-draped soirées and the most passive-aggressive tea rooms in the British Isles. Along the way, they must navigate eccentric aristocrats, devastating canapés, one very angry Highland cow, and – perhaps most perilously – each other.
Joana and Brian bicker. They blunder. They occasionally border on brilliant. As the body count rises and the suspects get increasingly cavalier, their supposedly discreet favour begins to look suspiciously like actual danger. Typical.
Atmospheric, wickedly funny, and fiendishly plotted, Respectable Murders is the perfect read for anyone who has ever suspected that the Scottish upper classes are hiding something – and been entirely right.
With a sleuthing duo whose banter is nearly as dangerous as the killer, this is a delightfully witty, distinctly British cosy mystery that will keep you turning pages well past bedtime.
Perfect for fans of M.C. Beaton and Robert Thorogood.
Joana has just about managed to unpack her kettle in her new Aberdeenshire cottage when DCI Fraser arrives with an inconvenient favour to ask. Someone is picking off the guests at Lord Montgomery's exclusive Highland matchmaking events… And Fraser needs Joana and Brian to ask awkward questions without causing a scandal within the Scottish aristocracy.
What follows is an investigation that takes them from crumbling castles and foggy clifftops to tartan-draped soirées and the most passive-aggressive tea rooms in the British Isles. Along the way, they must navigate eccentric aristocrats, devastating canapés, one very angry Highland cow, and – perhaps most perilously – each other.
Joana and Brian bicker. They blunder. They occasionally border on brilliant. As the body count rises and the suspects get increasingly cavalier, their supposedly discreet favour begins to look suspiciously like actual danger. Typical.
Atmospheric, wickedly funny, and fiendishly plotted, Respectable Murders is the perfect read for anyone who has ever suspected that the Scottish upper classes are hiding something – and been entirely right.
With a sleuthing duo whose banter is nearly as dangerous as the killer, this is a delightfully witty, distinctly British cosy mystery that will keep you turning pages well past bedtime.
Perfect for fans of M.C. Beaton and Robert Thorogood.
- GenresMystery
263 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication August 4, 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
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Read
June 21, 2026Another fun, quick Nancy Drew-ish type mystery set in Scotland. This time, photographers Joana and Brian are asked by their grumpy antagonist, Detective Fraser, to help figure out what’s going on amongst a lonely hearts club made up of elderly Scottish aristocrats who keep having “accidents”. I enjoy these books for easy reading and light humor.
I received an advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own!
I received an advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Respectable Murders is an absolute delight — a cosy mystery that leans into humour, charm, and Scottish atmosphere while still delivering a proper, satisfying whodunit. From the moment Joana barely has time to unpack her kettle before being roped into another “small favour,” you know you’re in for a wonderfully chaotic adventure.
The dynamic between Joana and Brian is the standout here. Their bickering, their mismatched energy, and their ability to stumble into danger with the confidence of people who really should know better make the whole story sparkle. Brian’s insistence on calling it the “Toff Killer” case (much to Joana’s horror) adds exactly the kind of dry, slightly absurd humour that gives this series its charm.
The mystery itself is great fun — blue‑blooded matchmaking events, crumbling castles, tartan‑heavy soirées, and even affronted Highland cows. The suspects are blasé in that very aristocratic way, which makes the rising body count feel both surreal and oddly comedic. Beneath the humour, though, there’s a tightly woven puzzle that keeps the pages turning.
What I loved most is how effortlessly the book balances cosy crime with sharp wit. It never takes itself too seriously, yet it still delivers all the intrigue and satisfaction you want from a classic whodunit. And, as always, Scotland steals the show — atmospheric, quirky, and full of personality.
A fast, funny, and thoroughly enjoyable mystery with two sleuths whose friendship is as entertaining as the case itself. Perfect for readers who love their crime with a generous dose of charm.
with thanks to Joana Snowdon, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The dynamic between Joana and Brian is the standout here. Their bickering, their mismatched energy, and their ability to stumble into danger with the confidence of people who really should know better make the whole story sparkle. Brian’s insistence on calling it the “Toff Killer” case (much to Joana’s horror) adds exactly the kind of dry, slightly absurd humour that gives this series its charm.
The mystery itself is great fun — blue‑blooded matchmaking events, crumbling castles, tartan‑heavy soirées, and even affronted Highland cows. The suspects are blasé in that very aristocratic way, which makes the rising body count feel both surreal and oddly comedic. Beneath the humour, though, there’s a tightly woven puzzle that keeps the pages turning.
What I loved most is how effortlessly the book balances cosy crime with sharp wit. It never takes itself too seriously, yet it still delivers all the intrigue and satisfaction you want from a classic whodunit. And, as always, Scotland steals the show — atmospheric, quirky, and full of personality.
A fast, funny, and thoroughly enjoyable mystery with two sleuths whose friendship is as entertaining as the case itself. Perfect for readers who love their crime with a generous dose of charm.
with thanks to Joana Snowdon, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Author
Respectable Murders is a cozy mystery with a clever puzzle, memorable characters, plenty of humor, and a vivid setting. It was so vivid that I wanted to pack my bags and head straight to the Scottish coast.
Joana is settling into her new life in Aberdeenshire—only to discover that murder has followed her north. When DCI Fraser reluctantly asks for her help investigating a series of suspicious deaths connected to an exclusive matchmaking society for Scotland's aristocracy, Joana and her delightfully chaotic friend Brian find themselves navigating castles, titled families, secret romances, and more than one cleverly disguised murder.
Joana remains a smart, grounded, and engaging amateur sleuth, while Brian steals nearly every scene he's in. His observations, mishaps, and running commentary provide laugh-out-loud moments that perfectly balance the darker aspects of the mystery. The ongoing dynamic between Joana, Brian, Fraser, and the ever-cheerful Murray continues to be one of the series' highlights.
What initially appear to be unfortunate accidents gradually reveal themselves as something far more sinister.
The Scottish setting is another appealing aspect of the book. From windswept coastal villages and grand country estates to imposing castles overlooking the North Sea, the atmosphere is immersive. The aristocratic matchmaking society provides a unique backdrop that feels fresh within the cozy mystery genre, adding both humor and intrigue to the story.
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Joana is settling into her new life in Aberdeenshire—only to discover that murder has followed her north. When DCI Fraser reluctantly asks for her help investigating a series of suspicious deaths connected to an exclusive matchmaking society for Scotland's aristocracy, Joana and her delightfully chaotic friend Brian find themselves navigating castles, titled families, secret romances, and more than one cleverly disguised murder.
Joana remains a smart, grounded, and engaging amateur sleuth, while Brian steals nearly every scene he's in. His observations, mishaps, and running commentary provide laugh-out-loud moments that perfectly balance the darker aspects of the mystery. The ongoing dynamic between Joana, Brian, Fraser, and the ever-cheerful Murray continues to be one of the series' highlights.
What initially appear to be unfortunate accidents gradually reveal themselves as something far more sinister.
The Scottish setting is another appealing aspect of the book. From windswept coastal villages and grand country estates to imposing castles overlooking the North Sea, the atmosphere is immersive. The aristocratic matchmaking society provides a unique backdrop that feels fresh within the cozy mystery genre, adding both humor and intrigue to the story.
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed the book overall but I didn't find it quite as strong as the previous books in the series. It was an easy, entertaining read with the light humor I've come to expect, making it a pleasant cozy mystery to spend time with.
One aspect I missed was the opportunity to explore Scotland's famous landmarks. The earlier books made the setting feel like an adventure in itself, whereas this one felt more confined. I also found the limited interaction with DCI Fraser and Murray a bit disappointing as their exchanges with Joana and Brian have always been some of my favourite parts of the series and add plenty of humor and personality.
The mystery itself was enjoyable, although it felt as though Joana and Brian spent less time actively investigating than in previous books. As always, Joana was the clever, logical force behind solving the case, while Brian provided the comic relief with his good natured observations and antics.
Despite these minor disappointments, I still had a good time reading the book. It's a light, cosy mystery with likeable characters, light humor and engaging plot. While it may not be my favourite book in the series, it's still an enjoyable read for the fans of Joana Snowdon Scottish mysteries.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
One aspect I missed was the opportunity to explore Scotland's famous landmarks. The earlier books made the setting feel like an adventure in itself, whereas this one felt more confined. I also found the limited interaction with DCI Fraser and Murray a bit disappointing as their exchanges with Joana and Brian have always been some of my favourite parts of the series and add plenty of humor and personality.
The mystery itself was enjoyable, although it felt as though Joana and Brian spent less time actively investigating than in previous books. As always, Joana was the clever, logical force behind solving the case, while Brian provided the comic relief with his good natured observations and antics.
Despite these minor disappointments, I still had a good time reading the book. It's a light, cosy mystery with likeable characters, light humor and engaging plot. While it may not be my favourite book in the series, it's still an enjoyable read for the fans of Joana Snowdon Scottish mysteries.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
Joana Snowdon has traded the bright lights of London for a cosy cottage in the Scottish Highlands. She's barely moved in when her nemesis, DCI Fraser, calls with a request: infiltrate an aristocratic mix and mingle group to see if two sudden coterie deaths are suspicious. And, with Brian visiting from London, Jo has all the ammunition she needs to get to the bottom of this tony mystery.
This book took an unexpected turn immediately: it seemed as though the two main characters were going in different directions. But Brian was ever present in all his absurd glory; he is one of the breakout characters this year.
This series is just downright enjoyable. Respectable Murders took that concept to the limits. I can't wait to see where the author's fertile imagination goes next!
Thank you to Joana Snowdon and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this digital ARC. As always, my opinions are my own, honest and true.
This book took an unexpected turn immediately: it seemed as though the two main characters were going in different directions. But Brian was ever present in all his absurd glory; he is one of the breakout characters this year.
This series is just downright enjoyable. Respectable Murders took that concept to the limits. I can't wait to see where the author's fertile imagination goes next!
Thank you to Joana Snowdon and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this digital ARC. As always, my opinions are my own, honest and true.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Respectable Murders is the latest mystery by Joana Snowdon. I enjoy this series even more with each book! This time our duo of photographer/crime solvers is tasked with finding out who is killing elderly Scottish aristocrats. I found myself laughing out loud so many times while reading this book. Joana has moved to Scotland and before she can even unpack Detective Inspector Fraser needs her help to solve a murder related to a dating service for elderly Scottish aristocrats. This leads to some hilarious moments including Brian becoming a heartthrob for a group of lonely old ladies! Part of the reason I enjoy this series so much is because it is so funny. Yes, they are solving crimes, but there is so much humor in Joana and Brian's relationship and their interactions with the police that I laughed out loud numerous times! Thank you Joana Snowdon for another great mystery!
Thank you to Book Sirens and the author for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to Book Sirens and the author for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Joana has now moved to Scotland, much to her pal Brian’s dismay. To their amazement, Chief D.I. Fraser comes to them to ask for their help in investigating suspicious deaths. The deaths are among the very upper class and the situation calls for tact that Fraser is not known for. Joana and Brian are on the case which involves elderly upper class men and women attending events like a Tinder for the rich and old. Two deaths could be accidental, but the victims are also receiving black edged cards announcing their funerals.
Brian and Murray are hilarious as ever and the mystery kept me guessing. I loved the scene with the Highland coo! This is the latest addition to this wonderful series, but could certainly be read as a standalone. I loved the characters and the Scottish setting.
Thanks to Joana Snowdon for the ARC.
Brian and Murray are hilarious as ever and the mystery kept me guessing. I loved the scene with the Highland coo! This is the latest addition to this wonderful series, but could certainly be read as a standalone. I loved the characters and the Scottish setting.
Thanks to Joana Snowdon for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Joana and Brian ride again!
Just as the title suggests, this is a real cozy mystery.
Absolutely not my usual genre of book, but I'd heard good things about this series, and who doesn't love a cozy mystery set in beautiful surroundings!?
Joana, as ever, is the brains and Brian the comical sidekick, though I was a little worn down with the frequency of hearing that he's vegan, but then again, that's what all vegans do - remind you constantly!
The duo are sent to investigate some mysterious deaths and injuries among the upper classes, and the story has you wondering where it's going, and who the murderer could be, until right at the very end when the truth is revealed.
I found the ending to be quite reminiscent of an episode of Scooby Doo, but it didn't take away from the story itself. It was easy to read, follow and savour.
All in all, a very enjoyable cozy mystery, lots of humour, a bit of slapstick and good writing skills!
I received a free copy of this book #respectablemurders from #netgalley in exchange for an honest review - the opinions are entirely mine.
Just as the title suggests, this is a real cozy mystery.
Absolutely not my usual genre of book, but I'd heard good things about this series, and who doesn't love a cozy mystery set in beautiful surroundings!?
Joana, as ever, is the brains and Brian the comical sidekick, though I was a little worn down with the frequency of hearing that he's vegan, but then again, that's what all vegans do - remind you constantly!
The duo are sent to investigate some mysterious deaths and injuries among the upper classes, and the story has you wondering where it's going, and who the murderer could be, until right at the very end when the truth is revealed.
I found the ending to be quite reminiscent of an episode of Scooby Doo, but it didn't take away from the story itself. It was easy to read, follow and savour.
All in all, a very enjoyable cozy mystery, lots of humour, a bit of slapstick and good writing skills!
I received a free copy of this book #respectablemurders from #netgalley in exchange for an honest review - the opinions are entirely mine.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is book 4 in the Scottish Highland Series. Joana moves from London to a Scottish town, Aberdeenshire. It is small and cozy. Joana has a 2 bedroom cottage and the movers just dropped her belongings off. Brian is there to help her, of course he is mostly complaining, as he always does. While unpacking a loud knock alerts them to an unexpected visitor. It is DCI Frasier and he is asking for their help. Will wonders never cease! There are some posh titled citizens being murdered and he wants them to pose as photographers and get intel. There are many laughs and the usual antics and then some while the duo proceed to solve the mystery and the murders. Outstanding Book, earns 5*+++ from me.
Read on 06/16/26.
Read on 06/16/26.
Review of advance copy
Already the fourth novel in this series and I am loving them more with each book!
Joana moves to Scotland in this one (not jealous at all, I promise! LOL)
The banter between Joana and Brian is something I recognize from my own life and I love that I'm not the only one.
DCI Fraser invites her and Brian to investigate this time, although he does come to regret that decision later on as expected.
I love the banter and Brian's clumsy insights and Murray's expressions.
I did have a fair idea of the plot and culprit about three quarters into the book, but the suspense to see if I was right kept me going on.
It's another 5 star read for me and I can't wait to read more in this series!
Joana moves to Scotland in this one (not jealous at all, I promise! LOL)
The banter between Joana and Brian is something I recognize from my own life and I love that I'm not the only one.
DCI Fraser invites her and Brian to investigate this time, although he does come to regret that decision later on as expected.
I love the banter and Brian's clumsy insights and Murray's expressions.
I did have a fair idea of the plot and culprit about three quarters into the book, but the suspense to see if I was right kept me going on.
It's another 5 star read for me and I can't wait to read more in this series!
Review of advance copy
I loved this book, definitely my favourite of the series so far.
In this book, Joana has moved to Scotland, and Brian is up for a first visit, when DCI Fraser arrives and asks the duo to help investigate 2 deaths linked to Hearts and Homes - a subtle dating service for Scotland's aristocracy.
The duo go to a number of events, and investigate some more incidents involving ladies who attend these events.
There is a good amount of humour mixed into the plot, and Joana and Brian are really engaging leads.
I'm excited to see there is another book to come in the series.
Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an advanced copy to read and review
In this book, Joana has moved to Scotland, and Brian is up for a first visit, when DCI Fraser arrives and asks the duo to help investigate 2 deaths linked to Hearts and Homes - a subtle dating service for Scotland's aristocracy.
The duo go to a number of events, and investigate some more incidents involving ladies who attend these events.
There is a good amount of humour mixed into the plot, and Joana and Brian are really engaging leads.
I'm excited to see there is another book to come in the series.
Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an advanced copy to read and review
Review of advance copy received from Author
Joana Snowdon has moved to a small cottage in Aberdeenshire & has her friend Brian visiting. Joana is a professional photographer & has been asked to take formal photos of both people and places, DCI Fraser arrives at her front door whilst she is still unpacking, not even found the kettle yet! He wants her & Brian to do some quiet investigating after a death and a few other oddities have happened at the soirées held at Craigenthistle Castle by Lord Montgomery Thistlethwaite. An interesting book indeed. I find the title amusing, how can any murder be Respectable? The aristocratic people responded to their questions better than they did the police ones.
Review of advance copy
Respectable Murders is Book 4 in the Scottish Castle Cozy Mystery by Joana Snowdon. When I read this Scottish mystery, I get a peek in what Scotland must be like with all of the castles and landscape. Joana has bought a little cottage and Brian is having none of it… so funny. DCI Fraser asked for help when the high class are having deadly accidents at Lord Montgomery's castle. Joana and Brian are armed with their camera and jump right into a new mystery. Joana and Brian are excellent main characters. DCI Fraser is a serious character and I believe this cozy should be on your TBR list. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
Brian getting social media advice from the senior lady had me Lmao. Brian and Joana are looking into the death of elderly people who were trying to maintain a facade of wealth until they remarry to afford their castle's upkeep. The death notices prior to the events really creeped me out and made me see it was a great deal to do with power -wielding it as THEY wanted it- sic! Each book is better than the previous one. Gripping and intriguing!! So many misdirection and red herrings that I was happily clueless until the reveal.
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 NetGalley
I absolutely loved this book! This was my first experience with Joanna Snowdon's writing, and it definitely won't be my last. A friend of mine recently got back from a vacation touring Scotland, and after seeing all of her beautiful pictures, this book was exactly the kind of cozy Scottish vibe I was looking for.
The mystery was engaging, the setting was charming, and I found myself completely immersed from beginning to end. I'm so glad I decided to pick this one up because I've discovered what I think is going to be a new go-to cozy mystery author. I can't wait to read more.
Thank you NetGalley and Highland Quil Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this advanced copy.
The mystery was engaging, the setting was charming, and I found myself completely immersed from beginning to end. I'm so glad I decided to pick this one up because I've discovered what I think is going to be a new go-to cozy mystery author. I can't wait to read more.
Thank you NetGalley and Highland Quil Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Respectable Murders was an interesting, fun book about a rich socialist's dating club but they keep ending up in trouble! Joana and Brian help out by going undercover in this entertaining book. It is a few into the series (4 maybe?) but each one can be read as a standalone, though I have enjoyed and recommend them all! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fun story, good characters.
Review of advance copy received from Author
These just get better and better. I can't wait for the next one
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews