Dragon in the Snow

Orkneyinga Murders #3

by Lexie Conyngham

The dragon lunged and burned. Ketil felt its hot breath, but he knew it was only a dream.
When Sigrid goes to stay on Shapinsay, Ketil is unconcerned – nothing ever happens on Shapinsay. But then the fires start, and it seems that Ketil’s dream has come to life. Will he and Sigrid find the arsonist, before a whole settlement is wiped out forever?

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Fiction

302 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 31, 2020

About the author

Author of five historical crime fiction series: Murray of Letho, Hippolyta Napier, the Journals of Dr Robert Wilson, Inspector Alec Cattanach, and Orkneyinga Murders, Lexie lives in North-East Scotland and after some years of trying the traditional methods (with absolute and complete lack of success) she was persuaded to test her limited technical skills with e-books. When she isn't writing (that would be Sundays) she teaches, knits, gardens, drinks wine or whisky, and sits looking thoughtful while random facts wander around her head.

She can be followed, should such a thing appeal, on Pinterest (https://uk.pinterest.com/lexieconyngham/) or even Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Lexie-Conyng...).

Reviews

[Reyna Favis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great mystery for Sigrid and Ketil to solve -- an arsonist burning longhouses and taking lives on an island where the inhabitants insist nothing ever happens. The slow-burn, second chance romance is a delight to watch as it unfolds. In this installment, Sigrid and Ketil are cornered by the powers that be into entering into marriages not of their own choosing. How they come to realize what they value and what is important, and how they come to see their childhood friend overlaid with the mantle of adult experiences -- this part of the story is very well done and moves at a perfect pace for the characters. Another thing that I really appreciate in these stories is that dogs are well-treated and valued by this Viking community. It's a very small part of the tales, but to me, this shows characters in a way that nothing else could. In a world where violence and death are ever-present and an accepted part of life, small, unexpected kindnesses go a long way. In terms of setting, the author once again proves she is an expert historian with deep knowledge of the life and times of her characters. I highly recommend this series and I'm looking forward to the next book.

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Someone is setting fires in the small community on Shapinsay, but who on earth might it be. I loved the intrigue, and the fact that you keep thinking you know who is responsible, but then change your mind. Cleverly done. I love the continuing complexity of the relationship between Ketil and Sigrid too.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ketil Gunnarson wonders how and why he has managed to become betrothed to Thorfinn's daughter Asgerdr. Meanwhile Sigrid has travelled to Shapinsay to determine if she and head man Beinir suit enough for marriage. While there, various house fires occur resulting in several deaths. But why. Ketil and Sigrid both investigate.
Another enjoyable and well-written historical mystery, with its very likeable main characters. A good addition to the series.

[K.J. Sweeney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third Orkneyinga Murders book from Lexie Conyngham. This time, both Ketil and Sigrid are facing changes in their lives which are perhaps not completely in their control. Sigrid finds herself visiting Shapinsay, a place where everyone knows nothing ever happens. Except, when she arrives, it's not long before things do begin to happen and fires begin to burn. Ketil comes to investigate and of course, Sigrid cannot help but get involved in the investigation herself. After all, someone needs to discover the things that Ketil will miss or that she's sure he isn't clever enough to work out himself.
There was an interesting cast of characters on Shapinsay, with equally interesting relationships to sort out. I was a few steps ahead of Sigrid and Ketil, but only a few steps at each turn. The mystery itself was satisfying and (most importantly) all made sense in the context of the story.
I really enjoy these mysteries. I'm a fan of historical murder mysteries anyway, but this setting of the Orkney Isles, populated with Vikings is really good. It's the little things that really add to the whole feeling of the book. I've had to google and watch youtube videos on tablet weaving and the various other crafts that Sigrid is an expert at. I love the way that she has skills in some areas, such as her crafts, but struggles with others like cooking or keeping her nose out of things.
I hope we don't have to wait too long for our next visit to Ketil and Sigrid as I do enjoy visiting their world and puzzling over the mysteries that they find themselves faced with. I also really like the interaction between the two of them.

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This author breathes life and soul into these characters who find themselves on the hunt for arsonists this time in a sleepy little community where nothing usually happens. The author lulls you into a false sense of security into thinking one way then you find it is all a very clever rouse. I love this about her writing. As with the other two books in this series it is richly steeped in history and culture of the Vikings. It is a wonderful mystery with a whodunnit feel.
Sigrid is not one to be left behind, so she is once again on the prowl with Ketil to make sure that he does not miss anything.
If you are a fan of historical murder mysteries, you are going to love this series.

[Naomi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun-filled addition to the series, this one taking place on Shapinsay, where apparently nothing ever happens...although that's proved incorrect!

[Mary E SMYTH · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel I have just returned from a stay in Orkney and long,long ago. Lexie Conyngham manages to transport me to where and when her tales are set.
This was a bit of a page turner , the perpetrator a clever twist in the tale.
This is a Goodread.

[MB (What she read) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm thoroughly enjoying this series!