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Inspector Torquil McKinnon #1
The Gathering Murders
Who can you trust when everyone is suspect?
The annual West Uist literary festival – The Gathering – always attracts the best in the business. But with the tiny Scottish Hebridean island population suddenly doubling, the local police force is stretched to breaking point. And this year they have to deal with more than just drunken fights and rowdy behaviour…
Ranald Buchanan, the local poet, is found dead, with his head brutally caved in, and Inspector Torquil McKinnon is brought into investigate. Did Ranald trip and fall, as suggested? Or is something more sinister happening?
Before Torquil can find out more, another victim is found. The island is on lockdown. There is a serial killer in their midst. And this time the victim is someone very close to him.
Now finding justice is personal. Torquil is out for revenge.
Can he solve the mystery before the killer strikes again? Or will more bodies fall victim to The Gathering Murders?
The annual West Uist literary festival – The Gathering – always attracts the best in the business. But with the tiny Scottish Hebridean island population suddenly doubling, the local police force is stretched to breaking point. And this year they have to deal with more than just drunken fights and rowdy behaviour…
Ranald Buchanan, the local poet, is found dead, with his head brutally caved in, and Inspector Torquil McKinnon is brought into investigate. Did Ranald trip and fall, as suggested? Or is something more sinister happening?
Before Torquil can find out more, another victim is found. The island is on lockdown. There is a serial killer in their midst. And this time the victim is someone very close to him.
Now finding justice is personal. Torquil is out for revenge.
Can he solve the mystery before the killer strikes again? Or will more bodies fall victim to The Gathering Murders?
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2006
1378 people are currently reading
306 people want to read
About the author
Keith Moray
23 books45 followersPen name of Keith Moray Souter, also writes as Keith Souter and Clay More.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
February 13, 2018
First and foremost, a large thank you to Keith Moray, and Sapere Books for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
In this series debut, Keith Moray takes the reader deep into the Hebrides to recount this Scottish murder mystery sure to impress with its local nuances. Torquil ‘Piper’ McKinnon heads up the West Uist Constabulary, a quiet force of three bracing for two significant events coming to the island for the weekend. The Gathering includes a bagpipe competition for which Torquil has been preparing al his life and shows off the true Highland nature of the Scottish cultural persona. The West Uist Literary Festival brights authors and book-lovers alike together to celebrate the written word in all its forms. When a Gaelic poet is found murdered, Torquil begins investigating, but cannot find many who might have wanted him dead, save for those who respect true poetry and hated his sub-par attempt. However, when author Fiona Cullen is found floating off the coast, the list of suspects is plentiful. Cullen’s novels seek to explore a thinly-veiled attack on certain people who have been involved in her life, usually causing quite a stir. Torquil must suppress the romantic relationship he had with Cullen and seek to find her killer. With an apparent serial killer on the loose in this quiet community, Torquil will have to act quickly, as suspects are soon to leave for the mainland. Trying to find a common thread between the victims, Torquil intensifies the investigation just as another body emerges. Will West Uist soon receive unwanted police presence from the Hebridean Constabulary to clean-up a mess that the locals cannot handle? Moray has a wonderful way with words and spins a decent tale here. Surely a series that will gain momentum as readers flock in its direction. Wonderful for those who want a murder mystery with much Scottish heritage woven throughout.
When the publisher approached me to read and review this piece, I was pulled in as soon as I took the time to read the dust jacket blurb. Moray transports the reader to a rural Scottish community and offers all the traditional descriptions, including a peppering of Gaelic phrasing. Torquil McKinnon proves to be a very interesting character, weighing his personal connection to the community against his desire to serve as one of its police officials. The reader will discover much of this man in the narrative, from his passion for bagpiping through to his fairly straightforward approach to policing. Added to that, the struggle to stay on the path when one of his love interests has been slain provides the story some interesting flavour. Many of the others who appear throughout the story are well presented and have their characteristics woven into the story in an effective manner. The story itself is actually quite well done, though its brevity keeps the reader from getting too far off the beaten path. Moray crafts his story in a succinct manner and keeps the story flowing well. While some may be familiar with ‘big city’ and tangential police procedurals, the reader can enjoy this close-knit story that fills the pages with Scottish lore! I’d gladly read another in this series, if only to learn more about McKinnon and the West Uist community.
Kudos, Mr. Moray, for this wonderful debut piece. I enjoyed the story and its brevity, which proves a refreshing alternative to much of what I have been reading.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
In this series debut, Keith Moray takes the reader deep into the Hebrides to recount this Scottish murder mystery sure to impress with its local nuances. Torquil ‘Piper’ McKinnon heads up the West Uist Constabulary, a quiet force of three bracing for two significant events coming to the island for the weekend. The Gathering includes a bagpipe competition for which Torquil has been preparing al his life and shows off the true Highland nature of the Scottish cultural persona. The West Uist Literary Festival brights authors and book-lovers alike together to celebrate the written word in all its forms. When a Gaelic poet is found murdered, Torquil begins investigating, but cannot find many who might have wanted him dead, save for those who respect true poetry and hated his sub-par attempt. However, when author Fiona Cullen is found floating off the coast, the list of suspects is plentiful. Cullen’s novels seek to explore a thinly-veiled attack on certain people who have been involved in her life, usually causing quite a stir. Torquil must suppress the romantic relationship he had with Cullen and seek to find her killer. With an apparent serial killer on the loose in this quiet community, Torquil will have to act quickly, as suspects are soon to leave for the mainland. Trying to find a common thread between the victims, Torquil intensifies the investigation just as another body emerges. Will West Uist soon receive unwanted police presence from the Hebridean Constabulary to clean-up a mess that the locals cannot handle? Moray has a wonderful way with words and spins a decent tale here. Surely a series that will gain momentum as readers flock in its direction. Wonderful for those who want a murder mystery with much Scottish heritage woven throughout.
When the publisher approached me to read and review this piece, I was pulled in as soon as I took the time to read the dust jacket blurb. Moray transports the reader to a rural Scottish community and offers all the traditional descriptions, including a peppering of Gaelic phrasing. Torquil McKinnon proves to be a very interesting character, weighing his personal connection to the community against his desire to serve as one of its police officials. The reader will discover much of this man in the narrative, from his passion for bagpiping through to his fairly straightforward approach to policing. Added to that, the struggle to stay on the path when one of his love interests has been slain provides the story some interesting flavour. Many of the others who appear throughout the story are well presented and have their characteristics woven into the story in an effective manner. The story itself is actually quite well done, though its brevity keeps the reader from getting too far off the beaten path. Moray crafts his story in a succinct manner and keeps the story flowing well. While some may be familiar with ‘big city’ and tangential police procedurals, the reader can enjoy this close-knit story that fills the pages with Scottish lore! I’d gladly read another in this series, if only to learn more about McKinnon and the West Uist community.
Kudos, Mr. Moray, for this wonderful debut piece. I enjoyed the story and its brevity, which proves a refreshing alternative to much of what I have been reading.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
March 26, 2018
The Gathering Murders is the first book in the Inspector Torquil McKinnon Mystery series.
Picture a picturesque Isle in Scotland, a small close knit community suddenly swelling to thousands for a weekend of games, contests and a literary festival. This is The Gathering, eagerly organised by the town’s council but stretching the small constabulary of three to their limits. Throw into the mix a murder that has the outside media in a frenzy and Inspector Torquil McKinnon is having trouble just keeping it all together.
An enthralling murder mystery where there are a multitude of suspects, each with motive and opportunity. Inspector McKinnon is aided in his investigation by Constable Evan McPhee, a giant of a man who still has a lot to learn but his heart is in the right place, and Sergeant Morag Driscoll, a single mum who knows how to function on no sleep and get the job done without any fuss.
A well written mystery which also builds the main characters’ backgrounds which sets a solid base for an intriguing murder mystery series.
The West Uist area of Scotland is beautifully portrayed and the addition of myths and legends gave the story a mystic feel.
You will find hidden clues, red herrings and plot twists galore in this suspense filled murder mystery set on the isolated Scottish Isle of West Uist.
With my thanks to Sapere Books for my copy to read and review.
Picture a picturesque Isle in Scotland, a small close knit community suddenly swelling to thousands for a weekend of games, contests and a literary festival. This is The Gathering, eagerly organised by the town’s council but stretching the small constabulary of three to their limits. Throw into the mix a murder that has the outside media in a frenzy and Inspector Torquil McKinnon is having trouble just keeping it all together.
An enthralling murder mystery where there are a multitude of suspects, each with motive and opportunity. Inspector McKinnon is aided in his investigation by Constable Evan McPhee, a giant of a man who still has a lot to learn but his heart is in the right place, and Sergeant Morag Driscoll, a single mum who knows how to function on no sleep and get the job done without any fuss.
A well written mystery which also builds the main characters’ backgrounds which sets a solid base for an intriguing murder mystery series.
The West Uist area of Scotland is beautifully portrayed and the addition of myths and legends gave the story a mystic feel.
You will find hidden clues, red herrings and plot twists galore in this suspense filled murder mystery set on the isolated Scottish Isle of West Uist.
With my thanks to Sapere Books for my copy to read and review.
April 18, 2022
This book is the first in the Inspector Torquil McKinnon series. 'The Gathering' is a traditional Scottish event where highland sports and 'piping' competitions are held. The setting for this book is the Outer Hebridean Islands of Uist, who are combining a literary festival with The Gathering.
Torquil finds himself reunited with an ex-girlfriend, Fiona Cullen, who is now a famed crime author. However, it appears her books are a thinly disguised hatchet job on high profile politicians and public figures. She has also publicly fallen out with both her agent and publisher.
When a local gaelic bard is found dead, at first he appears he was drunk and fell, but when a second body is discovered it becomes a lot more personal for Torquil and he discovers quite a few people besides Fiona that are hiding secrets that could destroy both them and others.
Certainly an enjoyable read, anyone who has enjoyed the Shetland series would be sure to enjoy this one too.
Torquil finds himself reunited with an ex-girlfriend, Fiona Cullen, who is now a famed crime author. However, it appears her books are a thinly disguised hatchet job on high profile politicians and public figures. She has also publicly fallen out with both her agent and publisher.
When a local gaelic bard is found dead, at first he appears he was drunk and fell, but when a second body is discovered it becomes a lot more personal for Torquil and he discovers quite a few people besides Fiona that are hiding secrets that could destroy both them and others.
Certainly an enjoyable read, anyone who has enjoyed the Shetland series would be sure to enjoy this one too.
February 20, 2018
I would like to thank Sapere Books for an advance copy of The Gathering Murders, the first novel to feature DI Torquil McKinnon of the fictional West Uist police.
The Kyleshiffin, West Uist station (all three officers) are gearing up for a busy few days as the island is holding a literary festival as well as the annual Gathering (Highland Games I think). What they don't expect is to find the Gaelic Bard dead in a drunken accident. This, however, takes a more sinister hue when another author is found murdered.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Gathering Murders which held my attention throughout. It is not a long or particularly profound novel but it is a good, interesting read with a twisty plot and some good, local colour.
Being a much despised lowlander I don't know much about life on the islands or any Gaelic so I found the detail on island life informative if a bit saccharine (there is no mention of poverty or any other social problems which exist everywhere in the country). I also liked the description of the scenery which really set the scene.
The plot is a whodunnit which I like. The unnamed killer's thoughts are voiced in the prologue and not again until the dénouement so most of the novel is taken up with Torquil and the team's efforts to find the killer. I must admit that I guessed the perpetrator early on but this did not spoil my enjoyment as the motive and means baffled me until all was revealed. It's amazing how many suspects with different motives can gather on one small island at the one time! I also like the pacing of the novel with the reveals coming at a steady enough pace to keep the reader guessing.
Torquil McKinnon seems a likeable character with enough backstory to make him interesting. I don't feel I got to know him particularly well in this novel but with a planned series ahead I think this will be rectified in future novels.
The Gathering Murders is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
The Kyleshiffin, West Uist station (all three officers) are gearing up for a busy few days as the island is holding a literary festival as well as the annual Gathering (Highland Games I think). What they don't expect is to find the Gaelic Bard dead in a drunken accident. This, however, takes a more sinister hue when another author is found murdered.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Gathering Murders which held my attention throughout. It is not a long or particularly profound novel but it is a good, interesting read with a twisty plot and some good, local colour.
Being a much despised lowlander I don't know much about life on the islands or any Gaelic so I found the detail on island life informative if a bit saccharine (there is no mention of poverty or any other social problems which exist everywhere in the country). I also liked the description of the scenery which really set the scene.
The plot is a whodunnit which I like. The unnamed killer's thoughts are voiced in the prologue and not again until the dénouement so most of the novel is taken up with Torquil and the team's efforts to find the killer. I must admit that I guessed the perpetrator early on but this did not spoil my enjoyment as the motive and means baffled me until all was revealed. It's amazing how many suspects with different motives can gather on one small island at the one time! I also like the pacing of the novel with the reveals coming at a steady enough pace to keep the reader guessing.
Torquil McKinnon seems a likeable character with enough backstory to make him interesting. I don't feel I got to know him particularly well in this novel but with a planned series ahead I think this will be rectified in future novels.
The Gathering Murders is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
December 22, 2018
This is the first crime thriller in the detective series featuring Inspector Torquil McKinnon.
The Gathering is actually a literary festive. All the best writers, poets. musicians are invited to attend. It's quite an honor to win an award, McKinnon is also entered into a couple of the contests... for playing his bagpipes.
It starts out busily enough. Because so many attend this festival, the department of law is being overrun with the need for security and hopefully keeping crime at bay.
A local poet is found with his head caved in. Accident? Murder? While McKinnon starts his investigation, another victim is found. And this victim has a personal tie to him.
McKinnon suspects they have a serial killer on their island, so he immediately locks down the island .. a move not everyone is happy about.
Can he solve the mystery before the killer strikes again? Or will more bodies fall victim to The Gathering Murders …?
The story premise is a good one .. the mystery kept me guessing. Some of the characters don't exactly feel credible .. some came off as caricatures rather than characters. This was an okay read.
Thanks to the author / Sapere Books / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
The Gathering is actually a literary festive. All the best writers, poets. musicians are invited to attend. It's quite an honor to win an award, McKinnon is also entered into a couple of the contests... for playing his bagpipes.
It starts out busily enough. Because so many attend this festival, the department of law is being overrun with the need for security and hopefully keeping crime at bay.
A local poet is found with his head caved in. Accident? Murder? While McKinnon starts his investigation, another victim is found. And this victim has a personal tie to him.
McKinnon suspects they have a serial killer on their island, so he immediately locks down the island .. a move not everyone is happy about.
Can he solve the mystery before the killer strikes again? Or will more bodies fall victim to The Gathering Murders …?
The story premise is a good one .. the mystery kept me guessing. Some of the characters don't exactly feel credible .. some came off as caricatures rather than characters. This was an okay read.
Thanks to the author / Sapere Books / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
February 19, 2018
Great Book. It’s always exciting to find a new Author that can grab your attention, with a thoroughly well written and entertaining story. Keith Moray has done a fabulous job with this story, and especially since I had no idea who the killer was, until the end of the book. The plot certainly grabbed my attention at the beginning, and I thought it was quite clever the way the Author kept us guessing. A great group of characters as well.
The Literary Festival for writers was being held on the island of West Uist, and it should have been a spectacular event for the public, to rub shoulders with several Authors. However, it hasn’t exactly turned out as planned, when one of the writers turns up dead. Not that the police see too alarmed about the death, as it looks like a very unfortunately accident. It isn’t until a second writer is killed, that they are put on high alert. Especially since there is no doubt that the second death was the result of the victim being murdered. Stopping everyone from leaving the island is the most obvious decision for the police to make. So, Inspector Torquil McKinnon and his team will need to work quickly in finding who is responsible. Especially before anyone else is targeted and end up dead. I can tell how much I’m enjoying a book, when I don’t move for hours when I’m reading it, and this is certainly one of those stories. It’s well worth a read.
I was provided with a copy for an unbiased reveiw
The Literary Festival for writers was being held on the island of West Uist, and it should have been a spectacular event for the public, to rub shoulders with several Authors. However, it hasn’t exactly turned out as planned, when one of the writers turns up dead. Not that the police see too alarmed about the death, as it looks like a very unfortunately accident. It isn’t until a second writer is killed, that they are put on high alert. Especially since there is no doubt that the second death was the result of the victim being murdered. Stopping everyone from leaving the island is the most obvious decision for the police to make. So, Inspector Torquil McKinnon and his team will need to work quickly in finding who is responsible. Especially before anyone else is targeted and end up dead. I can tell how much I’m enjoying a book, when I don’t move for hours when I’m reading it, and this is certainly one of those stories. It’s well worth a read.
I was provided with a copy for an unbiased reveiw
November 14, 2018
Enjoyed the setting of the small Scottish island with a literary festival and the gathering (like the Highland Games). Worthwhile listening to on audio just for the narration and the accent. Quite a slow burner though and towards the end it all became a little over the top far-fetched. Nicely written though and with plenty of suspects, reminiscent of old-fashioned murder mysteries.
March 5, 2018
I would like to thank Sapere Books for this free copy in exchange of an honest review.
3.5 Stars
This was a rather surprising book. I was attracted to it at first by the name of the Inspector, i thought it sounded intriguing, and also by the summury of the book that reminded me somehow of Agatha Christie's books (and i mean this as a compliment to the story obviously).
Anyway, i soon found out that the story held my attention totally, not only because of the plot but especially because of its setting. It was perfect! A Scottish Hebridean island (i had to look it out in Google in fact,so i learned a new thing by this book) with its fair share of legends and morbid secrets and a Traditional litterary festival: The Gathering. What can be better than having a murdered author in this festival to make the story more appealing! Well, i guess nothing, except maybe a second murdered author.
I loved the characters in this book, every one of them, even the evil ones. The people of the island, mixed with the tourist coming for the Gathering made an fascinating mix, almost like a character study. And Inspector Torquil with his rather funny team proved to be more interesting than i thought.
I enjoyed the different feeling that this book gave me, away from the fashionable serial killer stories. And i liked the abundance of suspects, all with secrets worth killing for, and the fact that i kept trying to figure out who was the killer and what was the link between the different incident.
It was a good, enjoyable book that i would recommend.
3.5 Stars
This was a rather surprising book. I was attracted to it at first by the name of the Inspector, i thought it sounded intriguing, and also by the summury of the book that reminded me somehow of Agatha Christie's books (and i mean this as a compliment to the story obviously).
Anyway, i soon found out that the story held my attention totally, not only because of the plot but especially because of its setting. It was perfect! A Scottish Hebridean island (i had to look it out in Google in fact,so i learned a new thing by this book) with its fair share of legends and morbid secrets and a Traditional litterary festival: The Gathering. What can be better than having a murdered author in this festival to make the story more appealing! Well, i guess nothing, except maybe a second murdered author.
I loved the characters in this book, every one of them, even the evil ones. The people of the island, mixed with the tourist coming for the Gathering made an fascinating mix, almost like a character study. And Inspector Torquil with his rather funny team proved to be more interesting than i thought.
I enjoyed the different feeling that this book gave me, away from the fashionable serial killer stories. And i liked the abundance of suspects, all with secrets worth killing for, and the fact that i kept trying to figure out who was the killer and what was the link between the different incident.
It was a good, enjoyable book that i would recommend.
January 7, 2019
Many thanks to Sapere Books and Keith Moray for the ARC in exchange for my unbiased review.
This is book one in a series. It takes place on the islands off the coast of northern Scotland, which I know nothing about, so I thought I'd give it a read.
The book begins with a couple of revenge killings, and murders proceed from there. Murder, murder, murder.
In other news on West Uist the largest author and book convention is about to commence. And I'm not there because why? The area is obviously known for its colorful population, and everyone knows everything. So when bad girl made big bucks Fiona comes ferrying into town of course Detective Torquil used to date her. Back to the murder part. Murder, murder, suspicions. But none of that stops the book fair! The police aren't the brightest of the bunch, but then again they've never been up to a task like this.
I can honestly say I did not see the ending coming. It just wasn't in the cards for me, and when it was sprung, I didn't even get excited. I was underwhelmed because it was so little mentioned. I was let down Moray. Better luck next time.
This is book one in a series. It takes place on the islands off the coast of northern Scotland, which I know nothing about, so I thought I'd give it a read.
The book begins with a couple of revenge killings, and murders proceed from there. Murder, murder, murder.
In other news on West Uist the largest author and book convention is about to commence. And I'm not there because why? The area is obviously known for its colorful population, and everyone knows everything. So when bad girl made big bucks Fiona comes ferrying into town of course Detective Torquil used to date her. Back to the murder part. Murder, murder, suspicions. But none of that stops the book fair! The police aren't the brightest of the bunch, but then again they've never been up to a task like this.
I can honestly say I did not see the ending coming. It just wasn't in the cards for me, and when it was sprung, I didn't even get excited. I was underwhelmed because it was so little mentioned. I was let down Moray. Better luck next time.
February 19, 2019
I really enjoyed this. I managed to not only read it in one day but a working day as well. I loved the pace of it. Despite a total of 3 murders in the end the whole thing is wrapped up in a matter of days and the speed of that comes across in the writing. You get swept along as McKinnon desperately tries to solve the murders before his boss comes over to the island to take over. And to stop anyone else dying of course.
KcKinnon and his two staff are well drawn, it's easy to picture them and they all have their own unique personalities. I enjoyed the Scottish island setting full of music and motorbikes. I think I'm overdue a trip to the Western Isles after reading this.
I wasn't keen on Fiona Cullen. She managed to upset everyone, which I guess was a point of her part in the book but she, at the same time, didn't really have any redeeming qualities so I found it hard to understand McKInnon's love for her. And I wasn't so keen on the speed in which he forgave her for running out on him for 5 years.
Overall though, really good story and I'll definitely pick up the rest of the series
KcKinnon and his two staff are well drawn, it's easy to picture them and they all have their own unique personalities. I enjoyed the Scottish island setting full of music and motorbikes. I think I'm overdue a trip to the Western Isles after reading this.
I wasn't keen on Fiona Cullen. She managed to upset everyone, which I guess was a point of her part in the book but she, at the same time, didn't really have any redeeming qualities so I found it hard to understand McKInnon's love for her. And I wasn't so keen on the speed in which he forgave her for running out on him for 5 years.
Overall though, really good story and I'll definitely pick up the rest of the series
July 11, 2021
This is a 3.5 star read.
December 6, 2023
This book reminds me a bit of Midsomer Murders - it feels slightly tongue in cheek, which I enjoyed!
March 11, 2019
Quite absurd.
March 19, 2018
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
I really enjoyed this story and was delighted to see that it is part of a series! It is a great plot and I loved the pace and punchy nature of the story.
The main characters in the book were great and I loved how they interacted and how personable and likable they were. I loved Torquil's character in particular and with the events in the book it made him a really genuine character and that made me like him all the more.
I have a love of books set in Scotland and this one was brilliant - the descriptions of the area were great and it really did feel as though you could step in to the pages and be with the characters. What a stunning location to set a new crime series!
Five stars from me - very enjoyable and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
I really enjoyed this story and was delighted to see that it is part of a series! It is a great plot and I loved the pace and punchy nature of the story.
The main characters in the book were great and I loved how they interacted and how personable and likable they were. I loved Torquil's character in particular and with the events in the book it made him a really genuine character and that made me like him all the more.
I have a love of books set in Scotland and this one was brilliant - the descriptions of the area were great and it really did feel as though you could step in to the pages and be with the characters. What a stunning location to set a new crime series!
Five stars from me - very enjoyable and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
February 23, 2018
This book is set in the beautiful Scottish island of West Uist following the story of a police inspector investigating the strange murders on the quiet island (the place where people leave the keys in their car let alone the doors unlocked).
I’m not gonna give spoilers away, but when you’ve read enough criminal fiction you learn to pick up some clues along the way. That being said, there are a lot of red herrings in this novel- I knew who was gonna die but I didn’t guess the murderer!
My biggest issue is that as a ceilidh dancer, the ceilidh scene was not long enough and there wasn’t enough description of the island (but then I’ve never been to Scotland so I would be greedy like that!).
Definitely would recommend ready this book- it is such an easy and absorbing read that will keep you guessing right to the end.
I’m not gonna give spoilers away, but when you’ve read enough criminal fiction you learn to pick up some clues along the way. That being said, there are a lot of red herrings in this novel- I knew who was gonna die but I didn’t guess the murderer!
My biggest issue is that as a ceilidh dancer, the ceilidh scene was not long enough and there wasn’t enough description of the island (but then I’ve never been to Scotland so I would be greedy like that!).
Definitely would recommend ready this book- it is such an easy and absorbing read that will keep you guessing right to the end.
May 8, 2018
Why not try book set on remote Scottish island where residents are preparing for a fest that welcomes book fans as well as celebrates piping (as in bagpipes) and the throwing of the hammer by men in kilts? It may not be such a good idea if you prefer your Scotch neat. There are so many ingredients thrown in with murders that one small island cannot contain them.
I was entertained by some elements but feel in need of reward for having finished the book.
I was entertained by some elements but feel in need of reward for having finished the book.
May 7, 2018
More action than most thrillers with this book, the characters are really likeable and very well developed, well written and the story flows well. Will be reading more from this author.
March 19, 2018
This book by Keith Moray introduces us to Torquil McKinnon, a recently promoted, bagpipe playing, Detective Inspector of police, based on the mostly crime free Hebridean island of West Uist, where the usual small population of 600 are welcoming an influx of visitors, guests and competitors for the island’s annual literary, Scottish music and highland games festival – The Gathering. Fiona Cullen, a former West Uist resident and Torquil’s long ago ex-partner, now a famous Scottish crime writer, having returned to the island for the gathering, loses no time in announcing that her latest thriller will be a thinly disguised exposé of the unsavoury activities carried out by some well-known islanders. Hardly is the “Gathering” underway when Ranard Buchanan, the island’s celebrated Gaelic bard and antique bookshop proprietor, is found dead. Following a further death, which is clearly a murder, the story gathers pace with Torquil and his small band of police officers struggling to come to terms with the possibility that a serial killer may be loose on their remote island. Could the threat of the revelations in Fiona Cullen’s latest book be a motive? – could someone want to stop the publication at all costs? A well-constructed plot, that twists and turns at a frantic pace and digs back into the island’s unfortunate past, coupled with a cast of very believable characters, makes this book an excellent introduction to Inspector Torquil McKinnon; and I certainly look forward to the next in the series.
February 23, 2018
Authentic, yes. Well written, yes. If you want lots of suspects to murders, yes. However, too much tripping into Gaelic, looking at Scottish traditions and a Hebrides way of life did not interest me at all. Plus, some of the characters were slightly unbelievable to be honest. Perhaps this was the author's intention, to keep the reader interested if struggling to finish it - like me!
Thanks to Sapere books for allowing me the chance to review this book.
Thanks to Sapere books for allowing me the chance to review this book.
March 1, 2018
‘All you needed was a little help, wasn’t it?
Welcome to The Gathering, the annual literary festival held on West Uist, a tiny island in the Scottish Hebrides. It’s a grand event which causes the population of the island to double, thus creating a few headaches for the small local police force. The influx of people means that there’s parking to be managed, and sometimes people over indulge in the drink. But Inspector Torquil McKinnon and his team have made their plans, and hope that all will go smoothly. After all, Torquil himself has his own part to play: he’s a piper, entered in one of the competitions at The Gathering.
Alas, to quote another famous literary Scotsman, Robert Burns: ‘the best laid schemes o' mice an' men / Gang aft a-gley’. And so it proves here. Ranald Buchanan, the local poet is found dead. It’s been suggested that he tripped and fell. While Torquil McKinnon investigates, another body is found. Another writer. Unquestionably murdered. Now it’s personal: the second body belongs to someone to whom Torquil is very close.
The island is in lockdown: no-one can leave while Torquil and his team try to find the killer. Is anyone else at risk?
I really enjoyed this novel, trying to work out who killed whom and why. Mr Moray has introduced a fine cast of characters: there’s more than one suspect. There’s also plenty of interference from Torquil McKinnon’s superior officer as well as a red herring or two.
And the killer? You’ll need to read the novel to find out for yourself. I didn’t work it out until the end: very cleverly done, Mr Moray! An interesting and entertaining cozy murder mystery that held by attention from beginning to end. I understand that this is the first in a series.
Note: My thanks to Sapere Books for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Welcome to The Gathering, the annual literary festival held on West Uist, a tiny island in the Scottish Hebrides. It’s a grand event which causes the population of the island to double, thus creating a few headaches for the small local police force. The influx of people means that there’s parking to be managed, and sometimes people over indulge in the drink. But Inspector Torquil McKinnon and his team have made their plans, and hope that all will go smoothly. After all, Torquil himself has his own part to play: he’s a piper, entered in one of the competitions at The Gathering.
Alas, to quote another famous literary Scotsman, Robert Burns: ‘the best laid schemes o' mice an' men / Gang aft a-gley’. And so it proves here. Ranald Buchanan, the local poet is found dead. It’s been suggested that he tripped and fell. While Torquil McKinnon investigates, another body is found. Another writer. Unquestionably murdered. Now it’s personal: the second body belongs to someone to whom Torquil is very close.
The island is in lockdown: no-one can leave while Torquil and his team try to find the killer. Is anyone else at risk?
I really enjoyed this novel, trying to work out who killed whom and why. Mr Moray has introduced a fine cast of characters: there’s more than one suspect. There’s also plenty of interference from Torquil McKinnon’s superior officer as well as a red herring or two.
And the killer? You’ll need to read the novel to find out for yourself. I didn’t work it out until the end: very cleverly done, Mr Moray! An interesting and entertaining cozy murder mystery that held by attention from beginning to end. I understand that this is the first in a series.
Note: My thanks to Sapere Books for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
February 24, 2018
4.5 Stars
The annual West Uist literary festival – The Gathering – always attracts the best in the business. But with the tiny island population suddenly doubling, the local police force, all three of them, is stretched to breaking point. Ranald Buchanan, the local poet, is found dead, with his head brutally caved in, and Inspector Torquil McKinnon investigates. Before Torquil can find out more, another victim is found. The island is on lockdown. There is a serial killer in their midst.
A well written very entertaining book, the pace of the story was very good & the characters well fleshed. This is the first novel to feature DI Torquil McKinnon of the fictional West Uist police & I hope that there are more. There are plenty of red herrings along the way & I was kept guessing & didn’t work out who the murderer was. The author is new to me & I have no hesitation in recommending this book
I would like to thank Sapere Books for an advance copy of The Gathering Murders.
The annual West Uist literary festival – The Gathering – always attracts the best in the business. But with the tiny island population suddenly doubling, the local police force, all three of them, is stretched to breaking point. Ranald Buchanan, the local poet, is found dead, with his head brutally caved in, and Inspector Torquil McKinnon investigates. Before Torquil can find out more, another victim is found. The island is on lockdown. There is a serial killer in their midst.
A well written very entertaining book, the pace of the story was very good & the characters well fleshed. This is the first novel to feature DI Torquil McKinnon of the fictional West Uist police & I hope that there are more. There are plenty of red herrings along the way & I was kept guessing & didn’t work out who the murderer was. The author is new to me & I have no hesitation in recommending this book
I would like to thank Sapere Books for an advance copy of The Gathering Murders.
December 26, 2018
Utterly boring story and characters.
June 18, 2020
If I read one more crime novel with a trans woman as the villain I'm going to lose my shit completely. Stop it. Just stop.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2018
My rating has bounced around between 2 and three stars as I thought about the novel after reading it.
I read The Gathering Murders as a Kindle edition. Personally I think this is necessary given the ability Kindle gives to have a dictionary link handy. Otherwise this poor Midwesterner would have needed a dictionary available to decipher some of the terms used to describe landmarks, etc. The Gaelic dialect, while interesting, slows the read down.
Good points-- really liked the lead character, Inspector McKinnon, as well as his cleric uncle who helps in the investigation, and his other supporting cast members. Very intricate plot with lots of "red herrings".
Bad points--- weak development of McKinnon's relationship with the first victim. Also the resolution of the murders came completely out of "left field" and a re-reading of key passages involving the murderer convinces me I didn't miss any key clues.
Still, this is an intriguing read for fans of the British mystery. The Scottish island setting differs from the usual settings and once the mystery gets going it is complex, despite the climactic ending.
I read The Gathering Murders as a Kindle edition. Personally I think this is necessary given the ability Kindle gives to have a dictionary link handy. Otherwise this poor Midwesterner would have needed a dictionary available to decipher some of the terms used to describe landmarks, etc. The Gaelic dialect, while interesting, slows the read down.
Good points-- really liked the lead character, Inspector McKinnon, as well as his cleric uncle who helps in the investigation, and his other supporting cast members. Very intricate plot with lots of "red herrings".
Bad points--- weak development of McKinnon's relationship with the first victim. Also the resolution of the murders came completely out of "left field" and a re-reading of key passages involving the murderer convinces me I didn't miss any key clues.
Still, this is an intriguing read for fans of the British mystery. The Scottish island setting differs from the usual settings and once the mystery gets going it is complex, despite the climactic ending.
February 14, 2018
A wonderfully old-fashioned whodunit reminiscent of the best classic mysteries. Set on a fictional island in the Hebrides, during a festival called The Gathering, a poet is found dead. At first it seems like an accident but, when another author is murdered, Inspector Torquil McKinnon suspects foul play. There is a very long list of suspects and the bodies keep piling up. Torquil finds clues that eventually will point him in the right direction, but at first seem to make everything more confusing. Once the culprit was revealed I realized that all the pieces had been there, I just didn't see them. The characters are more on the quirky than the realistic side, but this actually helps amp up the sense of humor. Plus, the look at the Scottish traditions is quite entertaining. Torquil himself plays the bagpipes and one of his officers competes in hammer throwing. I'm not sure if this is all real, but I loved picturing these rituals. This is a promising start to a new series that lovers of murder mysteries will enjoy.
I received a free copy from the Publisher, but I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, Sapere Books!
I received a free copy from the Publisher, but I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, Sapere Books!
July 14, 2018
This is probably three and a half stars rather than four - but a great read, worth more than three. The mixed emotions of Torquil - and others in the novel are well conveyed. I engaged with the characters, accepted their motivations, both honourable and dishonourable.
The setting is invoked with skill. I’m interested in this part of the world and really enjoyed its contribution to the narrative. While their is an element of romance in both the setting and the plot, it is nicely undercut by elements of harshness in both the environment and human behaviour, avoiding sentimentality.
My reservation is that the plot was a bit convoluted. While this did not interfere with my reading, streamlining would be more elegant.
It’s great to be at the beginning of a potentially enjoyable series!
The setting is invoked with skill. I’m interested in this part of the world and really enjoyed its contribution to the narrative. While their is an element of romance in both the setting and the plot, it is nicely undercut by elements of harshness in both the environment and human behaviour, avoiding sentimentality.
My reservation is that the plot was a bit convoluted. While this did not interfere with my reading, streamlining would be more elegant.
It’s great to be at the beginning of a potentially enjoyable series!
March 1, 2018
Gaelic Noir!
A new writer for me to discover and enjoy and enjoy it I most certainly did.
This tale takes us to the Hebrides and introduces us to DI Torquil McKinnon of the West Uist police and the acquaintance is well worth while. A Gaelic poet is murdered at the local literary festival and all sorts of red herrings emerge before the mystery is solved.
The book is well written, fairly brief and spare and engages from the start.
A worthy addition to the ranks of excellent police procedurals.
A new writer for me to discover and enjoy and enjoy it I most certainly did.
This tale takes us to the Hebrides and introduces us to DI Torquil McKinnon of the West Uist police and the acquaintance is well worth while. A Gaelic poet is murdered at the local literary festival and all sorts of red herrings emerge before the mystery is solved.
The book is well written, fairly brief and spare and engages from the start.
A worthy addition to the ranks of excellent police procedurals.
July 11, 2020
Prime free monthly books. Not great, but solid. I thought the motive was a little far-fetched or maybe just too much of 'everything but the kitchen sink' for my taste.
April 13, 2018
I received an ARC mobi file from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. This obviously does not change my feelings, opinions, etc. Thank you Sapere Books for giving me the opportunity to review this book.
I'm noticing a trend with the books I've reviewed for Sapere; so far they've all be set in the UK, which I know little about (typical self-absorbed American right here, haha) and I am feeling like there's this assumption that I'm supposed to know what certain things are/where certain places are, etc. Its basically always felt like I was dropped into this book with little to no context.
I liked Torquil, the MC, well enough, most of the other characters too. But Fiona pissed me the hell off. And did no one else think her relationship with Torquil was both rushed and forced? Which the affected his motivations going forward?
The ending! Oh don't get me started on how that came out of left field--was I so uninterested in this book that I missed the clues that would have predicted it? (Seriously, did I just miss things because I was having a hard time staying interested in this book?)
Something else that pissed me off were the inclusion of various sexist/-phobic comments, that were either representative of the views of persons who were/are from sheltered/non-progressive backgrounds; were meant as a satire of those views; were meant to show characters who you'd previously liked as assholes; or included for no reason whatsoever and are in fact the author's feelings on the matter?
(Yes, I am definitely living up to my (salty) name today. No, I don't think I'm sorry. But as my opinions are strictly mine, perhaps this is one of those books where you have to decide for yourself what you want to think of it).
I'm noticing a trend with the books I've reviewed for Sapere; so far they've all be set in the UK, which I know little about (typical self-absorbed American right here, haha) and I am feeling like there's this assumption that I'm supposed to know what certain things are/where certain places are, etc. Its basically always felt like I was dropped into this book with little to no context.
I liked Torquil, the MC, well enough, most of the other characters too. But Fiona pissed me the hell off. And did no one else think her relationship with Torquil was both rushed and forced? Which the affected his motivations going forward?
The ending! Oh don't get me started on how that came out of left field--was I so uninterested in this book that I missed the clues that would have predicted it? (Seriously, did I just miss things because I was having a hard time staying interested in this book?)
Something else that pissed me off were the inclusion of various sexist/-phobic comments, that were either representative of the views of persons who were/are from sheltered/non-progressive backgrounds; were meant as a satire of those views; were meant to show characters who you'd previously liked as assholes; or included for no reason whatsoever and are in fact the author's feelings on the matter?
(Yes, I am definitely living up to my (salty) name today. No, I don't think I'm sorry. But as my opinions are strictly mine, perhaps this is one of those books where you have to decide for yourself what you want to think of it).
July 14, 2018
What a different corner of the world! I was entranced by this setting from the very beginning. It's an area I don't know much about, so I was excited to read this first in the series. I found the characters to be relatable, and Torquil to be an especially intriguing protagonist. I couldn't believe the body count, and the plot twists abound. BUT. My biggest problem was the reveal. It felt cheap, and the characterization of the murderer felt like an afterthought (as well as being phobic?) I'm disheartened that this very good novel had to end this way. That said, I will give this author (and these characters) another chance - and read the next in the series.
I received this book through NetGalley, from Sapere Books, in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book through NetGalley, from Sapere Books, in exchange for an honest review.
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