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Island of the Dead
Not yet published
Expected 14 Jan 27On a weather‑beaten rock forty miles west of the Hebrides, they still call Skarav 'Island of the Dead' - a place of sheer cliffs, vanished communities and secrets buried as deep as the graves in its thin soil.
When Ethan MacGregor returns there for the first time in fourteen years, it is not for the scenery but an face what happened the night his first love fell from the island's highest cliff, or lose his wife and baby daughter.
At seventeen, Donna Gillies was fearless, barefoot and the only girl Ethan ever truly loved - until she died on a moonlit August night, broken on the rocks below a headland called The Saddle.
As a storm season closes in, Ethan makes his fated return to The Saddle, finding there the traumatised families, the politics of a shrinking island, and the dangerous loyalties of a group of friends who once believed they would all escape.
On an island where the dead are never far from the living, Island of the Dead is a tense, atmospheric thriller about faith and obsession, first love and generational guilt - and about whether the truth, once unearthed, can ever set anyone free.
When Ethan MacGregor returns there for the first time in fourteen years, it is not for the scenery but an face what happened the night his first love fell from the island's highest cliff, or lose his wife and baby daughter.
At seventeen, Donna Gillies was fearless, barefoot and the only girl Ethan ever truly loved - until she died on a moonlit August night, broken on the rocks below a headland called The Saddle.
As a storm season closes in, Ethan makes his fated return to The Saddle, finding there the traumatised families, the politics of a shrinking island, and the dangerous loyalties of a group of friends who once believed they would all escape.
On an island where the dead are never far from the living, Island of the Dead is a tense, atmospheric thriller about faith and obsession, first love and generational guilt - and about whether the truth, once unearthed, can ever set anyone free.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 14, 2027
About the author
Peter May
187 books58 followersLibrarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
This profile may contain books from multiple authors of this name
see Peter^^May for the novelist
see Peter^^^May for the schoolbooks author
see Peter^^^^May for the cricketer
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
This profile may contain books from multiple authors of this name
see Peter^^May for the novelist
see Peter^^^May for the schoolbooks author
see Peter^^^^May for the cricketer
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What a fantastic read this book is. Aside from the excellent surprising (on the whole) plot, which kept me hooked throughout, the author’s powers of description are just awesome.
Set on a remote island on the west coast of Scotland, west even of the Hebrides, you can feel and hear the wind blowing a hooley, you can feel the horizontal rain like needles in your face. You can picture the swirling sea crashing against the rocks hundreds of feet below and get vertigo! An island of resentments and accusations, long buried secrets and tragedy. This is the island where eight year old Ethan MacGregor is taken to live by his parents as his father accepts a job as pastor and teacher there. His brother Angus, 7 years older than Ethan, refuses to be uprooted and runs away. Ethan however is thrilled and his childhood is spent running over the island, barefoot, a feral child along with his gang. His gang who through fierce loyalty to each other, keep their secrets buried away and think no one will “tell”. They are left to their own devices and so ultimately get themselves into terrible trouble several times, with their latest harebrained idea ending in terrible tragedy.
Years later, married with a child, he is persuaded by his wife to return to the island with her to try and purge himself of the guilt that has over the years, manifested itself in terrible nightmares. It’s a terrible mistake as there is no easing of guilt in fact it seems, although truth is forced to the surface, there is no redemption; no easing of guilt because some are much more guilty of terrible deeds than others.
The characters in the book are so well defined, so vivid, it adds depth to the whole, despite the fact that as the story evolved I disliked Ethan more and more, but was still gripped! I loved the use of Gaelic words, the description of the way of life and culture on the island, (maybe based on ideas about St. Kilda until everyone had to leave). It all added to the authentic feel of the book.
This is a tense, tightly woven story with two points of view. One is an all knowing narrator and the other the first person account by Ethan. I found it slightly strange to start with, the sudden shift of perspective, but it worked well.
I highly recommend this book to readers who like tense thrillers set in atmospheric, even dangerous, landscape.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC for my kindle in exchange for my honest review.
Set on a remote island on the west coast of Scotland, west even of the Hebrides, you can feel and hear the wind blowing a hooley, you can feel the horizontal rain like needles in your face. You can picture the swirling sea crashing against the rocks hundreds of feet below and get vertigo! An island of resentments and accusations, long buried secrets and tragedy. This is the island where eight year old Ethan MacGregor is taken to live by his parents as his father accepts a job as pastor and teacher there. His brother Angus, 7 years older than Ethan, refuses to be uprooted and runs away. Ethan however is thrilled and his childhood is spent running over the island, barefoot, a feral child along with his gang. His gang who through fierce loyalty to each other, keep their secrets buried away and think no one will “tell”. They are left to their own devices and so ultimately get themselves into terrible trouble several times, with their latest harebrained idea ending in terrible tragedy.
Years later, married with a child, he is persuaded by his wife to return to the island with her to try and purge himself of the guilt that has over the years, manifested itself in terrible nightmares. It’s a terrible mistake as there is no easing of guilt in fact it seems, although truth is forced to the surface, there is no redemption; no easing of guilt because some are much more guilty of terrible deeds than others.
The characters in the book are so well defined, so vivid, it adds depth to the whole, despite the fact that as the story evolved I disliked Ethan more and more, but was still gripped! I loved the use of Gaelic words, the description of the way of life and culture on the island, (maybe based on ideas about St. Kilda until everyone had to leave). It all added to the authentic feel of the book.
This is a tense, tightly woven story with two points of view. One is an all knowing narrator and the other the first person account by Ethan. I found it slightly strange to start with, the sudden shift of perspective, but it worked well.
I highly recommend this book to readers who like tense thrillers set in atmospheric, even dangerous, landscape.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC for my kindle in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A dark and disturbing tale of love and betrayal.
In what would sadly be his final book, Peter May offers up a wonderfully dark and disturbing story. "Island of the Dead" takes place on an island forty miles west of the Outer Hebrides, where a small community continues to live, despite the harsh conditions. Known as the Skarav, 'Island of the Dead' it is a stark and forbidding place of sheer cliffs, wild winds, and buried secrets. Fourteen years ago Ethan MacGregor grew up there, and is still haunted by the tragic events which took place. Now drawn back to the island, in an attempt to finally find out what happened the night his girlfriend fell from the island's highest cliff, he must face his own demons and those he left behind.
The story moves along briskly, as Ethan re-connects with friends and family he last saw fourteen years ago - both they and the island have changed, affected by the same event which caused him to leave. We meet a cast of well-drawn characters including a loving but distant lay-preacher father, a group of school friends who each have a secret to hide, and a wife whom he loves, but is in danger of losing. Fans of the Lewis trilogy will be pleased to know that several characters re-appear, including DS George Gunn.
The story beautifully weaves together the harsh realties of life in a small community, and the various relationships that bind the people together. All this set against the wild and wonderful backdrop of an isolated island, constantly battling the elements. Peter May fans won't be disappointed. Long-time fans of May, and of whodunnits might see the ending coming, but it's still a shocker when it arrives, and the journey there is worth it.
The community of St Columba is a thinly veiled copy of St Kilda, which was evacuated in the 1930s when the people could no longer make a living there. The book re-imagines them, having been saved by an MOD radar station, which brought power, food and communications to the island.
In what would sadly be his final book, Peter May offers up a wonderfully dark and disturbing story. "Island of the Dead" takes place on an island forty miles west of the Outer Hebrides, where a small community continues to live, despite the harsh conditions. Known as the Skarav, 'Island of the Dead' it is a stark and forbidding place of sheer cliffs, wild winds, and buried secrets. Fourteen years ago Ethan MacGregor grew up there, and is still haunted by the tragic events which took place. Now drawn back to the island, in an attempt to finally find out what happened the night his girlfriend fell from the island's highest cliff, he must face his own demons and those he left behind.
The story moves along briskly, as Ethan re-connects with friends and family he last saw fourteen years ago - both they and the island have changed, affected by the same event which caused him to leave. We meet a cast of well-drawn characters including a loving but distant lay-preacher father, a group of school friends who each have a secret to hide, and a wife whom he loves, but is in danger of losing. Fans of the Lewis trilogy will be pleased to know that several characters re-appear, including DS George Gunn.
The story beautifully weaves together the harsh realties of life in a small community, and the various relationships that bind the people together. All this set against the wild and wonderful backdrop of an isolated island, constantly battling the elements. Peter May fans won't be disappointed. Long-time fans of May, and of whodunnits might see the ending coming, but it's still a shocker when it arrives, and the journey there is worth it.
The community of St Columba is a thinly veiled copy of St Kilda, which was evacuated in the 1930s when the people could no longer make a living there. The book re-imagines them, having been saved by an MOD radar station, which brought power, food and communications to the island.
November 5, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC from Peter May. This review reflects my personal experience of the story.
Peter May is a well-established author, known for his successful series as well as a number of standalone novels, of which Island of the Dead is one. Set on the harsh and remote Scottish island of Skarav, west of the Hebrides, the novel is rich in scenic descriptions and references to old Celtic traditions. One such tradition involves young men climbing dangerous cliffs as a rite of passage to collect birds' eggs and feathers. Although Skarav is a fictional island, it is clearly inspired by the culture and heritage of Scotland's island communities.
The story follows a group of teenagers growing up on the island, with particular focus on Ethan MacGregor and Donna Gillies. The narrative centres on the tragic death of Donna, who falls more than 400 feet from the island's highest cliff. What initially appears to be an accident is soon declared murder, and the story unfolds through a series of twists and revelations over 20 years before the truth is finally uncovered.
This is a gentle, character-driven thriller rather than a fast-paced detective novel. The strength of the book lies in its atmosphere, relationships, and exploration of island life. The characters are well developed, particularly Ethan, who grows up under the strict influence of his deeply religious father, Christopher MacGregor. The tensions created by faith, tradition, family expectations, and small-community life add depth to the mystery.
If you are looking for an action-packed crime thriller, this may not be the book for you. However, if you enjoy atmospheric mysteries with strong characterisation and a vivid sense of place, Island of the Dead is well worth reading. Readers who enjoy the work of Ann Cleeves will likely find much to appreciate here.
Peter May is a well-established author, known for his successful series as well as a number of standalone novels, of which Island of the Dead is one. Set on the harsh and remote Scottish island of Skarav, west of the Hebrides, the novel is rich in scenic descriptions and references to old Celtic traditions. One such tradition involves young men climbing dangerous cliffs as a rite of passage to collect birds' eggs and feathers. Although Skarav is a fictional island, it is clearly inspired by the culture and heritage of Scotland's island communities.
The story follows a group of teenagers growing up on the island, with particular focus on Ethan MacGregor and Donna Gillies. The narrative centres on the tragic death of Donna, who falls more than 400 feet from the island's highest cliff. What initially appears to be an accident is soon declared murder, and the story unfolds through a series of twists and revelations over 20 years before the truth is finally uncovered.
This is a gentle, character-driven thriller rather than a fast-paced detective novel. The strength of the book lies in its atmosphere, relationships, and exploration of island life. The characters are well developed, particularly Ethan, who grows up under the strict influence of his deeply religious father, Christopher MacGregor. The tensions created by faith, tradition, family expectations, and small-community life add depth to the mystery.
If you are looking for an action-packed crime thriller, this may not be the book for you. However, if you enjoy atmospheric mysteries with strong characterisation and a vivid sense of place, Island of the Dead is well worth reading. Readers who enjoy the work of Ann Cleeves will likely find much to appreciate here.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There were aspects of this story I really liked - the setting is brilliant. So remote, with the wild, dangerous landscape and I was fascinated by the descriptions of island life and the crashing weather. All of that was 5 stars for me. But when it came to the plot, I felt it often dragged. There's a lot that happens, and a lot of years to cover, but I felt it could have done with being about a quarter shorter than it was to tighten up the pacing, and increase the suspense. I had also guessed where it was heading, which meant the final reveal wasn't as exciting as it might have been, and it felt like some plot lines had been a little unnecessary in the getting there. Still, if you're looking for a moody, remote Scottish island mystery then it's worth a read! With thanks to Net Galley for my copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I had been recommended to read Peter May by a friend so was looking forward to a new discovery. This is not yet published but due early 2027.
The setting is good. A Scottish island with very few residents makes for fewer suspects when a murder is committed. It swings between pre murder and present time, about 16 years. A weakness for me was that I correctly guessed who did it despite the red herrings May gave us. And most characters are only briefly sketched including the puzzling Ethan who is at the heart of the novel.
I will try this author again. I read an ARC provided by Netgalley and the publishers. Thank you.
The setting is good. A Scottish island with very few residents makes for fewer suspects when a murder is committed. It swings between pre murder and present time, about 16 years. A weakness for me was that I correctly guessed who did it despite the red herrings May gave us. And most characters are only briefly sketched including the puzzling Ethan who is at the heart of the novel.
I will try this author again. I read an ARC provided by Netgalley and the publishers. Thank you.
November 10, 2026
Island of the Dead follows Ethan MacGregor as he returns to his childhood home after 14 years, seeking closure on a death that has haunted his adulthood.
The novel is wonderfully written, conveying the bleakness and beauty of the island. As Ethan reflects upon his childhood, the characters develop depth and personalities that enhance the story and add to the ongoing mystery.
A gripping, atmospheric and enjoyable read that is a fitting legacy to Peter’s work upon his untimely passing. A huge loss to the crime writing community.
Thanks to Quercus Books | riverrun and NetGalley for the ARC.
The novel is wonderfully written, conveying the bleakness and beauty of the island. As Ethan reflects upon his childhood, the characters develop depth and personalities that enhance the story and add to the ongoing mystery.
A gripping, atmospheric and enjoyable read that is a fitting legacy to Peter’s work upon his untimely passing. A huge loss to the crime writing community.
Thanks to Quercus Books | riverrun and NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What an absolutely poignant book to read this was. Having read all of his books, to know this was the last, made it a bittersweet read.
What ingenious plotting by May! Right from the start he navigated the tricky route of hooking me in, making me want to discover more about the characters and all the while he was dropping in clues along the way that I didn't register till later.
This was a compelling read with an atmospheric setting which May used to great effect in creating tension throughout.
I tried to savour it, but found myself racing through the pages and when it ended it was with a tear in my eye.
Absolutely stunning!
What ingenious plotting by May! Right from the start he navigated the tricky route of hooking me in, making me want to discover more about the characters and all the while he was dropping in clues along the way that I didn't register till later.
This was a compelling read with an atmospheric setting which May used to great effect in creating tension throughout.
I tried to savour it, but found myself racing through the pages and when it ended it was with a tear in my eye.
Absolutely stunning!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Set on Skarav a fictional weather beaten island rock 40 miles west of the Outer Hebrides in Scotland .Ethan and his Family go to live there as his Father is a Minister. As a child he makes friends with the local children and especially Donna .When they are teenagers Donna dies and Ethan leaves the Island becomes a Journalist, marries but is forever haunted by Donna's death .He returns after 14 years determined to find out who killed her .An atmospheric story ,full of suspicion and secrets .An excellent read .Thank you to NetGalley for my ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I liked this book. It was a little reminiscent of Famous Five, but through a whole life spent bon a remote Scottish island.
The characters were good, the storyline was convoluted but intriguing. I almost guessed the guilty parties, but I defy anyone to guess the whole story.
I received a review copy of this book free of charge and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The characters were good, the storyline was convoluted but intriguing. I almost guessed the guilty parties, but I defy anyone to guess the whole story.
I received a review copy of this book free of charge and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I always enjoy the Peter May books based in the Hebrides and this is no exception. His descriptive writing makes you feel like you are there. You experience the smells, sounds, sights and the bleakness of the location. A small community where everyone knows you but secrets can remain hidden for years. Gripping stuff and keeps you guessing. Great writing.
November 7, 2026
A story spanning two time periods, interwoven well. Good content to keep the reader hooked and plenty of wrong roads to potentially travel down in order to uncover the killer. To me it is a book that I felt comfortable with from the first page and enjoyed immensely. I rated it 4.5
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Great read. A gripping story and some beautiful descriptive writing. Excellent characterisation and fascinating background details.
It's made me take an interest in the history of St Kilda.
It's made me take an interest in the history of St Kilda.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews