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Reverend Annabelle Dixon #5
Horror in the Highlands
When Reverend Annabelle Dixon is given the chance to fill in for the local minister on the tiny, storm-lashed Scottish island of Blodraigh, she sees it as an ideal opportunity to make the most of the trip and spend some time with her brother and seven-year-old niece who live there.
What she doesn’t expect is to be drawn into a web of mystery and intrigue that shows up each and every flaw of the tight-knit islanders.
When a box of valuable jewelry is found and given to her for safe-keeping she stores it in the church, only for it to be stolen that very night. But something much worse is about to happen.
Despite being hampered by a violent storm and the ineptitude of the local police, Annabelle is determined to uncover the source of the mysteries that threaten those she loves dearly and her own sense of justice.
But what she finds is a community filled with suspicion and gossip, where behind every door lies another set of secrets and another suspect.
Now time is running out for Annabelle as she searches for answers. Can she solve the crimes before the culprits strike again? Or before the islanders take matters into their own hands?
Buy Horror in the Highlands today and prepare to be charmed.
What she doesn’t expect is to be drawn into a web of mystery and intrigue that shows up each and every flaw of the tight-knit islanders.
When a box of valuable jewelry is found and given to her for safe-keeping she stores it in the church, only for it to be stolen that very night. But something much worse is about to happen.
Despite being hampered by a violent storm and the ineptitude of the local police, Annabelle is determined to uncover the source of the mysteries that threaten those she loves dearly and her own sense of justice.
But what she finds is a community filled with suspicion and gossip, where behind every door lies another set of secrets and another suspect.
Now time is running out for Annabelle as she searches for answers. Can she solve the crimes before the culprits strike again? Or before the islanders take matters into their own hands?
Buy Horror in the Highlands today and prepare to be charmed.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 19, 2017
1021 people are currently reading
403 people want to read
About the author
Alison Golden
103 books332 followersAlison Golden is the USA Today bestselling author of the Inspector David Graham mysteries, a traditional British detective series, and two cozy mystery series featuring main characters Reverend Annabelle Dixon and Roxy Reinhardt. As A. J. Golden, she writes the Diana Hunter thriller series.
Alison was raised in Bedfordshire, England. Her aim is to write stories that are designed to entertain, amuse, and calm. Her approach is to combine creative ideas with excellent writing and edit, edit, edit. Alison’s mission is simple: To write excellent books that have readers clamoring for more.
Alison is based in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and twin sons. She splits her time between London and San Francisco.
To receive three free books, updates about new releases, exclusive promotions, and other insider information, sign up at: http://www.alisongolden.com.
Alison was raised in Bedfordshire, England. Her aim is to write stories that are designed to entertain, amuse, and calm. Her approach is to combine creative ideas with excellent writing and edit, edit, edit. Alison’s mission is simple: To write excellent books that have readers clamoring for more.
Alison is based in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and twin sons. She splits her time between London and San Francisco.
To receive three free books, updates about new releases, exclusive promotions, and other insider information, sign up at: http://www.alisongolden.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
July 7, 2017
Reverend Annabelle Dixon is on a vacation to a remote area of the Scottish Highlands. She's visiting her brother and her niece. She wants to enjoy her family. What she didn't expect was a murder and a mystery. Can she find who killed Harry Anderson? Annabelle is an interesting character who uses her keen mind and her powers of observation to solve crimes. She's warmhearted and I like her. I also enjoyed the touch of romance that Detective Inspector Mike Nicholls brings to the story. After all who doesn't love a man who will fly to your side to make sure you're safe. Their flirtation is a perfect counterpoint to murder and mayhem. I can always count on Alison Golden to add quirky secondary characters to liven up the story. This setting is the perfect backdrop. There are plenty of suspects who wanted Harry dead. He wasn't a nice man. I wasn't sure which one of the suspects committed the crime until the very end. Once I picked up this book, I couldn't put it down. I can't wait for Reverend Annabelle to have another adventure.
Want to read
December 15, 2019Author gift
July 21, 2017
I chose to read this book and offer up a review.
The Reverend Annabel Dixon takes a break from her parish to visit her brother and little niece on a remote Scottish Isle, it so happens that the regular Minister is also taking a break, so she agrees to cover his services. Simple, some relaxing time with the family and a few services at the local church. No problem. Who is she trying to kid? Murder and mystery has a habit of finding Annabel!
It all kicks off when a child gives Annabel a jewellery box for safe keeping. It is locked in the church safe but unfortunately it is stolen that very night! It is not long before the mystery deepens and someone is murdered! With a storm raging and the local police practically non-existent it is left to The Reverend to investigate before any evidence is lost to the storm.
I found this to be an excellent story with a few unexpected twists and a satisfying conclusion. Annabel uses her powers of observation and quick wit to solve the crimes, along the way she interacts with some interesting characters, all with their own stories and idiosyncrasies which weave into the mystery in varying degrees leaving Annabel with a number of suspects. Who done it? Why? Annabel uncovers the reasons that resulted in such tragedy in her unique way.
Alison writes with such beauty and explanation it brings the story to life. Can't wait to see where she takes Reverend Annabel next. A very good read.
The Reverend Annabel Dixon takes a break from her parish to visit her brother and little niece on a remote Scottish Isle, it so happens that the regular Minister is also taking a break, so she agrees to cover his services. Simple, some relaxing time with the family and a few services at the local church. No problem. Who is she trying to kid? Murder and mystery has a habit of finding Annabel!
It all kicks off when a child gives Annabel a jewellery box for safe keeping. It is locked in the church safe but unfortunately it is stolen that very night! It is not long before the mystery deepens and someone is murdered! With a storm raging and the local police practically non-existent it is left to The Reverend to investigate before any evidence is lost to the storm.
I found this to be an excellent story with a few unexpected twists and a satisfying conclusion. Annabel uses her powers of observation and quick wit to solve the crimes, along the way she interacts with some interesting characters, all with their own stories and idiosyncrasies which weave into the mystery in varying degrees leaving Annabel with a number of suspects. Who done it? Why? Annabel uncovers the reasons that resulted in such tragedy in her unique way.
Alison writes with such beauty and explanation it brings the story to life. Can't wait to see where she takes Reverend Annabel next. A very good read.
August 29, 2017
Reverend Annabelle is combining a vacation and being a standin at a small kirk on a Scottish island. She will be able to spend time with her brother, Roger, and her niece, Bonnie. The island is a small one filled with people who are friendly and charming. There are American tourists who believe they own part of a castle, a former rock star who has an unusual interest in dead bodies and a pub owner who takes his bagpipes everywhere he goes.
Annabelle is drawn into a wee mystery. Bonnie's friend, Felicity, brings a box of expensive jewels to Annabelle. They need to find the owner.
Shortly, things become much more serious. There is a dead body on the beach.
And it turns out not everyone is friendly and charming. One of the islanders is a murderer.
Ms Golden writes really lovely stories. Annabelle is a very entertaining heroine. I do find her tunnel vision off putting. She is unwilling and unable to see anything around her other than her main focus. When her policeman friend makes a fast trip to make sure she is safe, she ignores him except to pick his brain. I believe that someone who has gone into the ministry would be more interested in the people around her.
This is a quick read and a well plotted mystery. The characters are well developed and within a few lines the reader knows exactly who they are as a person.
Annabelle is drawn into a wee mystery. Bonnie's friend, Felicity, brings a box of expensive jewels to Annabelle. They need to find the owner.
Shortly, things become much more serious. There is a dead body on the beach.
And it turns out not everyone is friendly and charming. One of the islanders is a murderer.
Ms Golden writes really lovely stories. Annabelle is a very entertaining heroine. I do find her tunnel vision off putting. She is unwilling and unable to see anything around her other than her main focus. When her policeman friend makes a fast trip to make sure she is safe, she ignores him except to pick his brain. I believe that someone who has gone into the ministry would be more interested in the people around her.
This is a quick read and a well plotted mystery. The characters are well developed and within a few lines the reader knows exactly who they are as a person.
April 25, 2021
This is an entertaining fast-paced cozy mystery. I enjoyed meeting Annabelle's brother and niece. The characters are interesting and most are likable. I recommend this to fans for the series and cozy mystery readers.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
June 25, 2017
This latest instalment in the Rev Annabelle Dixon books takes place during a visit to her brother and niece in Scotland, on the tiny island of Blodraigh (hence the title), and brings a great freshness to the story's plot and characters. I'm not going to go into details about what happens (spoilers!) but with the requisite murder included - the islands first since the 1300s! - and no police force available to help, Annabelle starts investigating alone, and with no shortage of suspects. But it's the unexpected arrival of a friend that helps finally bring everything together and solve the crimes.
I really enjoyed this book and found it a fun read. I especially liked the fact you got a map and a short glossary of Scottish terms you might encounter in the book at the start - an excellent inclusion! It was brilliantly written with a great story, some hilarious characters, and was so clear in my mind. I highly recommend it to any lovers of the Rev Annabelle series, and even to other murder-mystery lovers - you don't have to have read any other books in this series to understand this book. But I guarantee you'll fall in love with Bumble (Annabelle) and want to read the rest of the series.
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own
I really enjoyed this book and found it a fun read. I especially liked the fact you got a map and a short glossary of Scottish terms you might encounter in the book at the start - an excellent inclusion! It was brilliantly written with a great story, some hilarious characters, and was so clear in my mind. I highly recommend it to any lovers of the Rev Annabelle series, and even to other murder-mystery lovers - you don't have to have read any other books in this series to understand this book. But I guarantee you'll fall in love with Bumble (Annabelle) and want to read the rest of the series.
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own
February 7, 2018
Another great adventure with the Vicar of Upton-St-Mary! This time, Annabelle travels to the island of Blodraigh, Scotland, to visit her brother and neice. With a name like Blodraigh, you know there's got to be trouble on the island. Annabelle is entrusted with a secret box of jewelry for safekeeping. Apparently, it wasn't so secret, because the jewelry is soon stolen. The small island has no police force, and a fierce storm has grounded all planes and ferries, preventing detectives from a neighboring island from arriving to help. As usual, Annabelle has to sift through local gossip, several suspicious residents, and delicious goodies, in order to solve the crime, and possibly uncover a deep family secret.
The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Mystery Series are great cozy mysteries, full of excitement and suspense, and the latest book is no exception. I've never been to Scotland, but I could experience Blodraigh's landscapes and that massive storm, in Horror in the Highlands. Actually, I think what makes all of Alison Golden's books so great is that each one has a great sense of place. I feel like if I were to visit the places where her books take place, they'd feel familiar and "remembered" from each of her three book series.
An added plus: the books in this particular series always end with yummy recipes!
The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Mystery Series are great cozy mysteries, full of excitement and suspense, and the latest book is no exception. I've never been to Scotland, but I could experience Blodraigh's landscapes and that massive storm, in Horror in the Highlands. Actually, I think what makes all of Alison Golden's books so great is that each one has a great sense of place. I feel like if I were to visit the places where her books take place, they'd feel familiar and "remembered" from each of her three book series.
An added plus: the books in this particular series always end with yummy recipes!
September 14, 2017
This was just stunning! The best book by far of the series, and now I'm more than a little sad as the author is taking a break while she is battling cancer. :'(
This time all the action occurs on the isolated island of Blodraigh, a part of Scotland and the scene of some epically c****y weather. Not only does Annabelle sleuth her way to finding a murderer on the police-less island but we are shown more background of her life when she visits her brother and niece for a holiday. Hmmm ..... will she receive help from a certain Detective Inspector? And what does the future hold for Annabelle? You shall have to read to find out!!
This time all the action occurs on the isolated island of Blodraigh, a part of Scotland and the scene of some epically c****y weather. Not only does Annabelle sleuth her way to finding a murderer on the police-less island but we are shown more background of her life when she visits her brother and niece for a holiday. Hmmm ..... will she receive help from a certain Detective Inspector? And what does the future hold for Annabelle? You shall have to read to find out!!
March 12, 2019
I would give this book a 4.5 if GoodReads offered decimals. I loved Reverend Annabelle and the other characters. (Review To be Continued. . . . )
October 18, 2021
Hmm a slow moving book which didn't move any faster! Annabelle is a English vicar who goes for a week's holiday to an isolated scottish isle to stay with her brother and his young daughter. The friend of the niece gives Annabelle a bag of jewels she has found and Annabelle puts them into the church safe. The same day the safe is broken into and the jewels stolen and the publican's body is found on the beach. The weather closes in and the scottish police cannot get to the island immediately.
Then Annabelle tells her english detective boyfriend Mike and he comes immediately from Cornwall, in the south of england, to the scottish isle in a HELICOPTER!!!!! Wow! Now it veers off into fantasy land. There is no way an english police officer would be flying in a helicopter up to a scottish isle to solve the break-in at a church and and a murder. Scotland does have a great police force and the english police do not interfere with scottish laws. This would be like sending an american police officer in a helicopter across the atlantic to iran to solve the theft of a bag of jewels and a murder. Wouldn't happen. I don't think a helicopter would be able to fly that far, not even an american one? Anyway I digress.
This book is just impossible to believe in and I turned to the last chapter to see the ending. In fact it was exactly as I had imagined it to be, who the murderer and the thief was. So no surprises there then!
Flying an english police man to scotland in a helicopter. Solving scotland's crimes, huh!!
Then Annabelle tells her english detective boyfriend Mike and he comes immediately from Cornwall, in the south of england, to the scottish isle in a HELICOPTER!!!!! Wow! Now it veers off into fantasy land. There is no way an english police officer would be flying in a helicopter up to a scottish isle to solve the break-in at a church and and a murder. Scotland does have a great police force and the english police do not interfere with scottish laws. This would be like sending an american police officer in a helicopter across the atlantic to iran to solve the theft of a bag of jewels and a murder. Wouldn't happen. I don't think a helicopter would be able to fly that far, not even an american one? Anyway I digress.
This book is just impossible to believe in and I turned to the last chapter to see the ending. In fact it was exactly as I had imagined it to be, who the murderer and the thief was. So no surprises there then!
Flying an english police man to scotland in a helicopter. Solving scotland's crimes, huh!!
July 15, 2017
Reverend Annabelle Dixon is off for a quiet visit with her brother and niece, on a little island off the coast of Scotland. It will be a time for rest and relaxation, with the only work being filling in for the village's regular vicar, who is taking a well-deserved vacation himself.
Surely it won't be anything like the busy excitement Upton St. Mary's has experienced recently.
Annabelle meets some interesting people, including an American couple who have purchased a lairdship on the island and want to see the three square feet of land that goes with it, a retired rock star, and Harry Anderson, the pub owner and bagpipe player who enlivens everything he can with his bagpipes.
This is all within the range of the expected. What isn't expected is a theft from the church safe, followed by Harry's brutal murder. Clues lie with her niece Bonnie's young friend Felicity, Felicity's rather unpleasant aunt, Kirsty, and retired rock star, Pip Craven, who is suspected of being the source of the drugs suddenly circulating in the area. The American couple, Mitch and Patty, and their increasingly frustrating quest to meet the man who sold them the lairdship and see their tiny patch of Scottish land, is surely a distraction.
It's a quaint, charming village peopled by quite real human beings. Golden gives us humor without laughing at her characters. It's warm and comfortable while being a mystery more than interesting enough to hold the reader's attention--very much what I want a cozy to be.
Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the author and am reviewing it voluntarily.
Surely it won't be anything like the busy excitement Upton St. Mary's has experienced recently.
Annabelle meets some interesting people, including an American couple who have purchased a lairdship on the island and want to see the three square feet of land that goes with it, a retired rock star, and Harry Anderson, the pub owner and bagpipe player who enlivens everything he can with his bagpipes.
This is all within the range of the expected. What isn't expected is a theft from the church safe, followed by Harry's brutal murder. Clues lie with her niece Bonnie's young friend Felicity, Felicity's rather unpleasant aunt, Kirsty, and retired rock star, Pip Craven, who is suspected of being the source of the drugs suddenly circulating in the area. The American couple, Mitch and Patty, and their increasingly frustrating quest to meet the man who sold them the lairdship and see their tiny patch of Scottish land, is surely a distraction.
It's a quaint, charming village peopled by quite real human beings. Golden gives us humor without laughing at her characters. It's warm and comfortable while being a mystery more than interesting enough to hold the reader's attention--very much what I want a cozy to be.
Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the author and am reviewing it voluntarily.
September 23, 2022
Reverend Annabelle Dixon is excited about her vacation on the tiny Scottish island of Blodraigh where her brother and niece live. It has been a while since she got to play with her niece and her brother’s housekeeper makes the most fantastic cakes, not to mention how beautiful and relaxing walks around the island can be.
Rev Dixon is not there long when she discovers that there are mysteries on the island. A famous rockstar has moved there but why is he acting like a hermit? Her niece has a best friend being raised by her aunt but why are they so very poor and there seems to be a missing treasure of great value. When a murder occurs Rev Dixon can not sit by with the rest of the native islanders waiting for the nearest police to arrive given the raging storm preventing anyone from entering or leaving the island.
Golden and Vougeot have written the perfect spooky cozy mystery. The setting can not be surpassed, with the very secluded island, the ancient buildings, and the small number of islanders. The characters are believable and perfect for the roles they play, Rev Dixon with her determination, her niece with her sense of curiosity and kindness, the local pub owner who has his nose into everything, the secluded Rock Star, and the two tourists that think they own property on the island, as well as the rest of the locals really make the book. Although this is part of a series it works well as a stand alone read.
Rev Dixon is not there long when she discovers that there are mysteries on the island. A famous rockstar has moved there but why is he acting like a hermit? Her niece has a best friend being raised by her aunt but why are they so very poor and there seems to be a missing treasure of great value. When a murder occurs Rev Dixon can not sit by with the rest of the native islanders waiting for the nearest police to arrive given the raging storm preventing anyone from entering or leaving the island.
Golden and Vougeot have written the perfect spooky cozy mystery. The setting can not be surpassed, with the very secluded island, the ancient buildings, and the small number of islanders. The characters are believable and perfect for the roles they play, Rev Dixon with her determination, her niece with her sense of curiosity and kindness, the local pub owner who has his nose into everything, the secluded Rock Star, and the two tourists that think they own property on the island, as well as the rest of the locals really make the book. Although this is part of a series it works well as a stand alone read.
June 7, 2021
Another delightful tale by Alison Golden! Annabelle seems to be drawn to adventure, and this story is full of adventure. She sets out for a little vacation to visit her brother and his daughter, but ends up spending most of her time solving mysteries and catching criminals. Of course she gets help from her good friend Mike Nicholls, who is a police inspector, and who rushes to be with her to make sure she is safe after she tells him about everything that has been happening.
The setting for the story is a remote island off the coast of Scotland, whose inhabitants are an eclectic mix of characters. A boisterous pub owner who plays the bagpipes all around town and who is frequently the center of attention. The 7-year-old girls Bonnie and Felicity provide fun moments. Then there is the American couple who came to the island to step foot in the castle, to which they had purchased honorary titles and a 3-foot square plot of land. And also a retired rocker who has his own mysterious ways. There are plenty of stories to fill the pages of this book.
Of course there must be some tragedy in the story or how could it be called "Horror in the HIghlands"? At least the crimes are not described in gory detail. This is, after all, supposed to be a light-hearted story about Annabelle, who is a vicar of the church. This is also a quick read. Enjoy!
The setting for the story is a remote island off the coast of Scotland, whose inhabitants are an eclectic mix of characters. A boisterous pub owner who plays the bagpipes all around town and who is frequently the center of attention. The 7-year-old girls Bonnie and Felicity provide fun moments. Then there is the American couple who came to the island to step foot in the castle, to which they had purchased honorary titles and a 3-foot square plot of land. And also a retired rocker who has his own mysterious ways. There are plenty of stories to fill the pages of this book.
Of course there must be some tragedy in the story or how could it be called "Horror in the HIghlands"? At least the crimes are not described in gory detail. This is, after all, supposed to be a light-hearted story about Annabelle, who is a vicar of the church. This is also a quick read. Enjoy!
June 23, 2017
A fun romp through the Highlands with a mystery thrown in!
Horror in the Highlands is a fantastic addition to the Reverand Annabelle Dixon Mystery series! What a fun cozy mystery with humor, a shy little romance and a great ending! I love Annabelle! She is so unassuming and brilliant in her approach to people as she so easily can get information out of them without them knowing exactly what they are doing, she is the Vicar after all. I absolutely loved how Inspector Mike showed up because he worries so much about Annabelle, and how he has such a huge crush on her and she on him! But neither will admit it, lol. The description of the Highlands is very vivid and Alison creates a wonderful picture while you read. Trying to get away for a visit to Annabelle's brother and niece, she is once again caught up in a murder mystery. We are left at the end with some unfinished business we think between Inspector Mike and Annabelle, what wonderful adventure do we have to look forward to next. The ending is a great surprise and the characters are quirky, real and wonderful! Needless to say, This is a great addition to the series and I look forward to the next adventure of the Reverand Annabelle! I received an ARC copy of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
Horror in the Highlands is a fantastic addition to the Reverand Annabelle Dixon Mystery series! What a fun cozy mystery with humor, a shy little romance and a great ending! I love Annabelle! She is so unassuming and brilliant in her approach to people as she so easily can get information out of them without them knowing exactly what they are doing, she is the Vicar after all. I absolutely loved how Inspector Mike showed up because he worries so much about Annabelle, and how he has such a huge crush on her and she on him! But neither will admit it, lol. The description of the Highlands is very vivid and Alison creates a wonderful picture while you read. Trying to get away for a visit to Annabelle's brother and niece, she is once again caught up in a murder mystery. We are left at the end with some unfinished business we think between Inspector Mike and Annabelle, what wonderful adventure do we have to look forward to next. The ending is a great surprise and the characters are quirky, real and wonderful! Needless to say, This is a great addition to the series and I look forward to the next adventure of the Reverand Annabelle! I received an ARC copy of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
June 25, 2017
Annabelle is supposed to be on vacation, visiting her brother and neice on the island of Blodraigh, Scotland. She also agreed to fill in for Father Boyce, who is on holiday, by covering the Sunday church service.
Following the Sunday service, Annabelle is shown a jewelry box that was found in an abandoned house. Unfortunately, there are no police on the island and with the weather turning nasty, the authorities from the mainland are unable to come to the island. Annabelle decides to lock the box in the church safe until she can turn it over to the authorities. Almost immediately, the church is broken into and the box is stolen. The next morning, Harry Anderson, the owner of the local pub, is found dead on the beach.
Are the two events connected? Where did the jewelry come from and why was it hidden in an abandoned house? Will Annabelle get any official help or is she on her own? Why was Harry killed and by whom?
The descriptions of the island are quite vivid and the people are very realistic. The book takes place over a fairly short period of time, which makes it seem as if a lot is happening at once. This only adds to the mystery and makes the book harder to put down.
I received a free copy of the book from the author, but the review is entirely my own.
Following the Sunday service, Annabelle is shown a jewelry box that was found in an abandoned house. Unfortunately, there are no police on the island and with the weather turning nasty, the authorities from the mainland are unable to come to the island. Annabelle decides to lock the box in the church safe until she can turn it over to the authorities. Almost immediately, the church is broken into and the box is stolen. The next morning, Harry Anderson, the owner of the local pub, is found dead on the beach.
Are the two events connected? Where did the jewelry come from and why was it hidden in an abandoned house? Will Annabelle get any official help or is she on her own? Why was Harry killed and by whom?
The descriptions of the island are quite vivid and the people are very realistic. The book takes place over a fairly short period of time, which makes it seem as if a lot is happening at once. This only adds to the mystery and makes the book harder to put down.
I received a free copy of the book from the author, but the review is entirely my own.
June 28, 2017
I just finished reading HORROR IN THE HIGHLANGS BY Alison Golden. I was given this book and I am not obligated to review it, but I want to.
This book is a delight! There are so many new surprises around every corner. The book is well-written and by that I mean it's easy to picture what is happening, to feel the weather, sense the danger. Something is always happening. Reverend Annabelle Dixon goes to northern Scotland to visit her brother and his daughter, but there is never a moment of peace. The characters are colorful and believable in their roll in this story. I like the cozy mysteries because they aren't as dark and disturbing as the wonderful psychological thrillers. Depends on what I want, because I do thoroughly enjoy a good thriller. Back to Annabelle. She is very good at looking for clues and sorting the facts.
This book is a delight! There are so many new surprises around every corner. The book is well-written and by that I mean it's easy to picture what is happening, to feel the weather, sense the danger. Something is always happening. Reverend Annabelle Dixon goes to northern Scotland to visit her brother and his daughter, but there is never a moment of peace. The characters are colorful and believable in their roll in this story. I like the cozy mysteries because they aren't as dark and disturbing as the wonderful psychological thrillers. Depends on what I want, because I do thoroughly enjoy a good thriller. Back to Annabelle. She is very good at looking for clues and sorting the facts.
July 10, 2017
This is the latest adventure for Reverend Annabelle Dixon, this time not in her beloved hometown of Upton St. Mary, but off on a visit with her brother and niece on the isolated Scottish island of Blodraigh. Trying to enjoy her visit, she is unfortunate enough to become involved with a mysterious discovery of jewelry, a theft, and then a murder. Can she solve these crimes without the assistance of Inspector Mike or will she find herself in danger from going it alone. I love this series and her insightful ways into people, places and things. The setting was delightful and I enjoyed the interaction between Annabelle and her brother and niece, as well as with the various islanders. The murderer and motive remained elusive until the end. I am looking forward to more Annabelle (and Mike) adventures.
May 31, 2019
Not one of my favourites in the series
An okay read. However it's not one of my favourites in the series. Not sure why. The plot was sound, the characters engaging but something seemed missing. Although it's nice to see the Vicar and the Inspector getting closer.
Her yearly trip to the small Scottish island to see her widower brother and her niece has made her more than tired by the time she arrived. However this was soon forgotten as she made the rounds of the locals with her small niece and her niece's BFF. Throw in a bagpipe playing publican who is killed by his bagpipes, stolen jewels found then stolen again, a jealous woman, no police present and the unexpected arrival of the Inspector. Will they find the killer and the jewels.
An okay read. However it's not one of my favourites in the series. Not sure why. The plot was sound, the characters engaging but something seemed missing. Although it's nice to see the Vicar and the Inspector getting closer.
Her yearly trip to the small Scottish island to see her widower brother and her niece has made her more than tired by the time she arrived. However this was soon forgotten as she made the rounds of the locals with her small niece and her niece's BFF. Throw in a bagpipe playing publican who is killed by his bagpipes, stolen jewels found then stolen again, a jealous woman, no police present and the unexpected arrival of the Inspector. Will they find the killer and the jewels.
March 21, 2021
Horror in the Highlands - a review by Rosemary Kenny
Reverend Annabelle Dixon takes what should be a relaxing Highland holiday to Scottish Isle, by visiting her brother and niece there.
But the, 'best laid plans of mice and men' are often 'gang agley' and so it proves, when first the local Kirk (church), is robbed and then a local islander is murdered!
Who you gonna call? Reverend Annabelle, of course, seeing as - much like Father Brown or Murder She Wrote - our feisty lady is already on the scene of mischief, murder and mayhem, wherever she goes.
Can Annabelle and Inspector Mike Nicholls, her beau, reveal and apprehend the miscreants?
You betcha! How?
You'll have to get yourself a copy of Alison Golden's Horror in the Highlands to find out!
Reverend Annabelle Dixon takes what should be a relaxing Highland holiday to Scottish Isle, by visiting her brother and niece there.
But the, 'best laid plans of mice and men' are often 'gang agley' and so it proves, when first the local Kirk (church), is robbed and then a local islander is murdered!
Who you gonna call? Reverend Annabelle, of course, seeing as - much like Father Brown or Murder She Wrote - our feisty lady is already on the scene of mischief, murder and mayhem, wherever she goes.
Can Annabelle and Inspector Mike Nicholls, her beau, reveal and apprehend the miscreants?
You betcha! How?
You'll have to get yourself a copy of Alison Golden's Horror in the Highlands to find out!
June 20, 2017
Annabelle goes to visit her brother and niece in Scotland. She meets an elderly couple who had purchased titles and three square feet of pasture of a castle on the isle from the internet.
With the theft of some valuables from the church safe, and a murder that Might be connected to it. And no way for the police to get to the island because of a storm. Annabelle is up to her cassock in another investigation.
Alison's story are great reads with descriptions of scenery that make you want to go and visit the places mentioned. This was a wonderful story that contained a little violence and some laugh out loud moments. I hope to see more of her brother and his family in future books.
With the theft of some valuables from the church safe, and a murder that Might be connected to it. And no way for the police to get to the island because of a storm. Annabelle is up to her cassock in another investigation.
Alison's story are great reads with descriptions of scenery that make you want to go and visit the places mentioned. This was a wonderful story that contained a little violence and some laugh out loud moments. I hope to see more of her brother and his family in future books.
June 21, 2017
If you love unique, little cozy mysteries then you'll absolutely love Horror in the Highlands by Alison Golden.
Reverend Annabelle makes a return. This time she is visiting her brother and niece on an island in Scotland where the weather is rough and the islanders are even tougher.
Annabelle is always finding herself smack dab in the middle of trouble. She must find out what a bagpipe playing pub owner, a retired rock star, stolen jewelry and her nieces best friend have in common.
Picturesque scenery, quirky characters and light-heartedness in the middle of mayhem makes for a quick and enjoyable read!
Reverend Annabelle makes a return. This time she is visiting her brother and niece on an island in Scotland where the weather is rough and the islanders are even tougher.
Annabelle is always finding herself smack dab in the middle of trouble. She must find out what a bagpipe playing pub owner, a retired rock star, stolen jewelry and her nieces best friend have in common.
Picturesque scenery, quirky characters and light-heartedness in the middle of mayhem makes for a quick and enjoyable read!
June 22, 2017
This is the best Annabelle mystery yet! Jewels, murder, lies with just a touch of romance. This was great to see Annabelle in a different environment than Upton St. Mary and it was terrific to meet some of her family and to learn a bit more about her life. The scenery abounds with Highland beauty and savagery, giving this story even more of a thrill. Alison Golden has given us a treasure trove of murder that will keep you guessing and thrill you down to your toes. I highly recommend this book. Even though it is a series, it can be read as a standalone, but I am telling you to get to know Reverend Annabelle. You won't be sorry.
June 24, 2017
Mystery in Scotland
When Rev. Annabelle goes to a tiny island in Scotland to visit her brother and niece, you would expect a nice quiet time away from it all. After all, all An and niece, you would expect a nice quiet time away from it all. After all, all Annabelle has to do while there is cover for the local minister while he is on vacation.
But this is Annabelle and things just seem to happen when she is around. This time it's stolen jewelry and murder. When she sends an email to her friend the Inspector, she never expected that he would come to her aid, but, he literally does - out of the blue.
Another wonderful Cozy Mystery from Alison Golden
When Rev. Annabelle goes to a tiny island in Scotland to visit her brother and niece, you would expect a nice quiet time away from it all. After all, all An and niece, you would expect a nice quiet time away from it all. After all, all Annabelle has to do while there is cover for the local minister while he is on vacation.
But this is Annabelle and things just seem to happen when she is around. This time it's stolen jewelry and murder. When she sends an email to her friend the Inspector, she never expected that he would come to her aid, but, he literally does - out of the blue.
Another wonderful Cozy Mystery from Alison Golden
June 24, 2017
For all you fans of Alison Golden's Annabelle Dixon you are in for a treat! In this story we are introduced to Annabelle's brother, Roger and niece, Bonnie along with a cast of new characters. Inspector Nichols makes an appearance and we get a snippet of a relationship (maybe?). I enjoy the writing of Alison Golden as much as the story development. She gives us a few new words to look up but not so much that we can't enjoy the story. Although I received this book for free for an honest review, this is an author I buy from. Pick up this book or any of the Annabelle Dixon stories for an enjoyable mystery.
June 26, 2017
BEST OF THE SERIES!!
Horror in the Highlands (A Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mystery Book 5) is the best of the series to date!! Our beloved Annabelle has traveled to the small island of Blodraigh to visit her brother Roger and niece Bonnie. While she's there, she is to fill in at their church, too. Their visit takes many twists and turns once a humongous storm rolls in and shuts them off from the outside world. Golden's continued character development of Annabelle is to be applauded! The plot is excellent, the scenery descriptions have you feeling as though you are caught in the storm, too, and the characterizations of the supporting characters are masterful. Truly a delightful read!
Horror in the Highlands (A Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mystery Book 5) is the best of the series to date!! Our beloved Annabelle has traveled to the small island of Blodraigh to visit her brother Roger and niece Bonnie. While she's there, she is to fill in at their church, too. Their visit takes many twists and turns once a humongous storm rolls in and shuts them off from the outside world. Golden's continued character development of Annabelle is to be applauded! The plot is excellent, the scenery descriptions have you feeling as though you are caught in the storm, too, and the characterizations of the supporting characters are masterful. Truly a delightful read!
June 29, 2017
Another cracking cozy mystery read from Alison Golden, I like the character of the Rev. Annabelle Dixon, and in this story she is again showcased in a great way, but in a very different location, the other end of the country from her usual south coast home, a north Scottish island. I have reduced this book from 5 to 4 stars because it is so unlikely that a detective from the south of England would be allowed to travel at a moment's notice to a small Scottish island to help his friend. Apart from this the plot is excellent and the various characters, some delightfully eccentric, are well developed.
This is an excellent read, especially if the minor niggle above is ignored.
This is an excellent read, especially if the minor niggle above is ignored.
October 4, 2017
Annabelle Dixon Series
Annabelle goes to Scotland to visit her brother and niece for a week and is given some priceless jewelry and then a villager is murdered. When she gets an email from Inspector Mike Nichols she let's him know what is going on and he comes to the island to make sure she is safe. Annabelle and Mike discover the murderer and the story of the jewelry. Just before they leave they find out about a local growing marijuana in the local castle which helps the Fenbarra police close a case they were working on. A great mystery with well developed characters and a surprising ending. Highly recommend this book and the series.
Annabelle goes to Scotland to visit her brother and niece for a week and is given some priceless jewelry and then a villager is murdered. When she gets an email from Inspector Mike Nichols she let's him know what is going on and he comes to the island to make sure she is safe. Annabelle and Mike discover the murderer and the story of the jewelry. Just before they leave they find out about a local growing marijuana in the local castle which helps the Fenbarra police close a case they were working on. A great mystery with well developed characters and a surprising ending. Highly recommend this book and the series.
September 13, 2019
I've been reading the Rev. Annabelle series in sequence, and so far this one's the best although all have been very good to excellent. The setting is very well described, the weather alone can be terrifying, and the characters are very interesting. The entire story is enhanced by the presence of two little girls who are major players in the events. I've been to Scotland although not one of the islands, and somehow this story evokes memories of the skirl of the bagpipes, the chill of the damp highland air, and and the desolation of the moors.
As a television commercial about a totally unrelated item once said, "Try it. You'll like it."
As a television commercial about a totally unrelated item once said, "Try it. You'll like it."
December 13, 2019
Vacation into Murder
You will seldom find caracters are vibrant and open as those found on the islands along either side of the northern Atlantic Scotland is one such place wich gives such amazing adventures to the cozey mystery's such as "Horror in the Highlands ".Once I started reading this vibrant mystery it seemed to be unfolding into intreage, humorous and an endearing ending. It is the ideal cozey to carry you away then gently bring you back to reality in hopes of more to come in another tail of the vicor Annabelle mystery..so aquier a copy and start enjoying the "Horror in the Highlands ".us much as I have. ☺😮🤔🙄😏😊 Kat
You will seldom find caracters are vibrant and open as those found on the islands along either side of the northern Atlantic Scotland is one such place wich gives such amazing adventures to the cozey mystery's such as "Horror in the Highlands ".Once I started reading this vibrant mystery it seemed to be unfolding into intreage, humorous and an endearing ending. It is the ideal cozey to carry you away then gently bring you back to reality in hopes of more to come in another tail of the vicor Annabelle mystery..so aquier a copy and start enjoying the "Horror in the Highlands ".us much as I have. ☺😮🤔🙄😏😊 Kat
April 19, 2020
Horror in the Highlands:
5 stars
I have purchased a copy of The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries Book 5: Horror in the Highlands by Alison Golden and this review was given freely.
Vivid descriptions, an eclectic group of colorful characters, and a series of oddities and mysteries fill the pages of this cozy mystery where Reverend Annabelle visits her brother Roger and niece Bonnie on the island of Blodraigh, Scotland where she finds herself having to solve the murder of pub owner Harry Anderson without the help of the police while isolated on a small island in the midst of a severe storm. Things escalate when a chance email results in a surprise visit from Inspector Mike.
5 stars
I have purchased a copy of The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries Book 5: Horror in the Highlands by Alison Golden and this review was given freely.
Vivid descriptions, an eclectic group of colorful characters, and a series of oddities and mysteries fill the pages of this cozy mystery where Reverend Annabelle visits her brother Roger and niece Bonnie on the island of Blodraigh, Scotland where she finds herself having to solve the murder of pub owner Harry Anderson without the help of the police while isolated on a small island in the midst of a severe storm. Things escalate when a chance email results in a surprise visit from Inspector Mike.
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