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The Unforgiven Dead
You could have saved her.
Sure as the tide against his Highland shores, the refrain beats into Constable Angus ‘Dubh’ MacNeil’s mind. For years it has haunted him, accompanied by the faces of those he could not save—the Burned Man, the Strangled Woman, the Drowned Boy. All witnesses to a secret he cannot share and a gift he now refuses to embrace.
Until everything changes one October, on Samhain, the liminal time when the ancients awaken and the Otherworld creeps in. The refrain drives Angus to the seashore at dawn, where a girl lies on the unblemished sand. She wears a green cloak and cradles a corps creadha, a Highland voodoo doll. She has suffered a ritualistic, three-fold death—her head bludgeoned, her throat cut, and symbolically drowned.
It is Faye Chichester, daughter of an American billionaire whose mission to reintroduce wolves to the Highlands has embroiled the village of Glenuig. But even as media and national police swarm the area, that refrain—you could have saved her—echoes in all Angus’s thoughts. For he carries a burden, a blessing, a curse, a secret—dà-shealladh, the second sight of Gaelic lore.
Gilleasbuig ‘Gills’ MacMurdo, noted folklorist, academic, and Angus’s oldest friend, confirms what the dà-shealladh is warning. Just as Faye’s death was three-fold, so must the murder victims fulfil the ancient pattern. More will die, unless Angus does what he must—close his eyes and see.
Sure as the tide against his Highland shores, the refrain beats into Constable Angus ‘Dubh’ MacNeil’s mind. For years it has haunted him, accompanied by the faces of those he could not save—the Burned Man, the Strangled Woman, the Drowned Boy. All witnesses to a secret he cannot share and a gift he now refuses to embrace.
Until everything changes one October, on Samhain, the liminal time when the ancients awaken and the Otherworld creeps in. The refrain drives Angus to the seashore at dawn, where a girl lies on the unblemished sand. She wears a green cloak and cradles a corps creadha, a Highland voodoo doll. She has suffered a ritualistic, three-fold death—her head bludgeoned, her throat cut, and symbolically drowned.
It is Faye Chichester, daughter of an American billionaire whose mission to reintroduce wolves to the Highlands has embroiled the village of Glenuig. But even as media and national police swarm the area, that refrain—you could have saved her—echoes in all Angus’s thoughts. For he carries a burden, a blessing, a curse, a secret—dà-shealladh, the second sight of Gaelic lore.
Gilleasbuig ‘Gills’ MacMurdo, noted folklorist, academic, and Angus’s oldest friend, confirms what the dà-shealladh is warning. Just as Faye’s death was three-fold, so must the murder victims fulfil the ancient pattern. More will die, unless Angus does what he must—close his eyes and see.
400 pages, Paperback
First published September 13, 2022
9 people are currently reading
5286 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
October 12, 2023
another DNF for me, witch is sad. I just was not invested in the story even a bit. I didn't care what happens to witch character. I actually read three other books while I was in the process of reading this one!
August 9, 2023
There is here a fascinating juxtaposition of the real and rational world with the supernatural. People go about their daily lives, and it's all very normal ... meanwhile, there's this thing lurking in the back that is primordial, capricious, and absolutely untameable. So no, even if our hero does have the Second Sight, it's not a superpower he can summon up at will. The result is a vision of Scotland that is by turns magnificent in its rocky vistas, familiar in its trivial day-to-day, and tinged with a dark and ancient horror.
I think it's probably the most mature treatment of supernatural aspects in a real world setting that I've seen in a long time. I always say that supernatural mysteries are hard to do because of the need to explain the unfamiliar bits, but here that difficulty is turned around, to become an opportunity to discover some of the more obscure and interesting bits of Scottish folklore.
I think it's probably the most mature treatment of supernatural aspects in a real world setting that I've seen in a long time. I always say that supernatural mysteries are hard to do because of the need to explain the unfamiliar bits, but here that difficulty is turned around, to become an opportunity to discover some of the more obscure and interesting bits of Scottish folklore.
June 17, 2024
I received an ARC of this book.
I loved this book. As soon as I finished the first chapter I was drawn in, and as I continued reading I found myself completely immersed in the cold, misty, gloomy, harsh Highlands of Angus "Dubh" MacNeil and his small village. When Constable Angus MacNeil is startled out of sleep by the vision of a gruesome murder, he rushes to the beach in a futile attempt to prevent the crime. The teenaged daughter of an American billionaire has been killed in a manner reminiscent of ancient Celtic ritualistic sacrifice, and Angus must try to find the killer while trying to ignore the ghostly spectors of the dead girl, along with other victims of crimes he could not prevent or solve. With help of old friend Gills MacMurdo, a professor of Celtic Mythology, and old flame DI Nadia Sharif, Angus must do his best to solve the crime before the killer--whoever or WHATever it may be--finds a new victim. Because all the portents point to more death.
The author impeccably creates an atmosphere of isolation, otherworldliness, and eldritch strangeness, while giving a glimpse into a part of Scottish culture/folk history that many may not know much about. The way the author was able to intermingle history, culture, mythology, folk beliefs, AND creepy chilling mystery was nothing short of superb. This book was right up my alley, and I didn't want it to end. If you enjoyed The Wild Hunt, or The Crossing Places The Ruth Galloway Series, then check out this book. The descriptions, suspenseful tension, and attention to Scottish culture make this book a must-read. I really hope there is a second book, because I would love to read more about this place and these people!
I loved this book. As soon as I finished the first chapter I was drawn in, and as I continued reading I found myself completely immersed in the cold, misty, gloomy, harsh Highlands of Angus "Dubh" MacNeil and his small village. When Constable Angus MacNeil is startled out of sleep by the vision of a gruesome murder, he rushes to the beach in a futile attempt to prevent the crime. The teenaged daughter of an American billionaire has been killed in a manner reminiscent of ancient Celtic ritualistic sacrifice, and Angus must try to find the killer while trying to ignore the ghostly spectors of the dead girl, along with other victims of crimes he could not prevent or solve. With help of old friend Gills MacMurdo, a professor of Celtic Mythology, and old flame DI Nadia Sharif, Angus must do his best to solve the crime before the killer--whoever or WHATever it may be--finds a new victim. Because all the portents point to more death.
The author impeccably creates an atmosphere of isolation, otherworldliness, and eldritch strangeness, while giving a glimpse into a part of Scottish culture/folk history that many may not know much about. The way the author was able to intermingle history, culture, mythology, folk beliefs, AND creepy chilling mystery was nothing short of superb. This book was right up my alley, and I didn't want it to end. If you enjoyed The Wild Hunt, or The Crossing Places The Ruth Galloway Series, then check out this book. The descriptions, suspenseful tension, and attention to Scottish culture make this book a must-read. I really hope there is a second book, because I would love to read more about this place and these people!
July 23, 2023
I tried to complete the Book but it just couldn’t. I tried to go back to it but I found it wasn’t a book that could keep me invested in the story. I really struggled with it. Some of my fellow readers might love this book. Thank you NetGalley and Inkshares for the ARC of The Unforgiven dead by Fulton Ross
January 9, 2023
This book turned into a DNF for me. I found it so boring. I couldn’t stay interested in this book. I thought it was going to be different from what it turned out to be. I was rather disappointed.
August 5, 2023
Wow! This was a rattling good read. Actually, I listened to the audio version, wonderfully narrated by Peter Forbes. Set in the Highlands of Scotland, this spooky tale of modern day murders is shot through with Celtic folklore. If I'd had a physical book I would have said it was a real page turner. As it was, I just couldn't bear to turn it off. The ending has me hoping this is the first of a long series. I certainly hope so.
August 24, 2023
The Unforgiven Dead
Not my style of book. For me, there were many parts included that detracted from the story. It would have been better if there was more focus on telling the story as opposed to trying to “build it up.”
#GoodreadsGiveaways
Not my style of book. For me, there were many parts included that detracted from the story. It would have been better if there was more focus on telling the story as opposed to trying to “build it up.”
#GoodreadsGiveaways
February 8, 2025
Spooky!
April 19, 2024
A Scottish detective is working on a case of a murder of a teenage girl. It turns out that he is a seer, and was able to see her murder and the murders of others before they happened, but did not believe in his sight enough to prevent any of them. Are all these foreseen murders connected to each other and to Celtic rituals?
I struggled through the first half of the book. It was very slow as the author takes the reader deep into Celtic mythology while unfolding the mystery. Towards the end I couldn't put it down and the ending leaves us hanging on for a sequel.
I hope there is one!
I struggled through the first half of the book. It was very slow as the author takes the reader deep into Celtic mythology while unfolding the mystery. Towards the end I couldn't put it down and the ending leaves us hanging on for a sequel.
I hope there is one!
March 18, 2023
4.5 Stars
My first Tartan Noir and I was not disappointed. I'd recommend this book to anyone down for a slowburn, supernatural, murder mystery interwoven with Celtic history (specifically the Scottish Highlands) and folklore.
This was neeearly a 5 star read but the first third or so of the story relies heavily on vibes. Fortunately, these are hauntingly beautiful, Scottish coastal vibes, so I was fully on board.
Thanks to NetGalley for the eArc.
My first Tartan Noir and I was not disappointed. I'd recommend this book to anyone down for a slowburn, supernatural, murder mystery interwoven with Celtic history (specifically the Scottish Highlands) and folklore.
This was neeearly a 5 star read but the first third or so of the story relies heavily on vibes. Fortunately, these are hauntingly beautiful, Scottish coastal vibes, so I was fully on board.
Thanks to NetGalley for the eArc.
June 25, 2023
Well. This book was definitely steeped in Ronseal factor. Delivered just what it said on the tin. Well, book blurb to be more precise, but you get what I’m saying. Haunting, atmospheric and mysterious, with more than the odd hint of folklore and the supernatural, it’s a murder mystery that successfully bridges the gap between this world and the next. It’s melancholic and brooding, but its also in a strange way captivating and perfect for those who like their crime fiction with a vein of the unexplained.
In The Unforgiven Dead we meet Constable Angus MacNeil, a police officer who has a rather unique gift. He is a seer, someone who has visions of future events, or those that have only recently come to pass. He has been trying to ignore this gift, managing his visions with pills and, something he is no longer able to do when his latest vision leads him to the discovery a young woman, murdered and left on the beach near to his highland home. It brings him into the world of the Chichester family, and patriarch James, whose plans to reintroduce wolves to the highlands have met with more than a little resistance. But is that reason enough for murder, or are far darker forces at play?
I liked Angus as a character. He is haunted, literally, by airings from his past and the pain of his gift which he had been discouraged from following by his father. There is no doubt that he is a good man, conflicted and in denial though he may be, but his reluctance to embrace his foresight is understandable.
Alongside him is his old friend Gills, a man who understands what Angus can do and encourages him to listen to what his visions are telling him. Gills is also a Historian, with a specialism in the folklore of the region, something that proves invaluable in this particular grizzly investigation.
Then there is DI Nadia Sharif, a face from Angus’ past who haunts him for very different reasons. Nadia is a no nonsense kind, plagued by her own regrets and demons, but between her and Angus they make a perfect team.
This is far from your straight forward murder case. For one thing, there is a ritualistic element, a real sense of ‘overkill’ in the fate that befalls the victim. But then that ties into the whole sense of tribalism and folklore that informs the story. Fulton Ross has done a grand job in bringing this to our attention, delivering a lot of information and setting the scenes perfectly, both through present day and reference to scenes throughout history.
Regionally, the location is perfect, there being such a history of mythology around the Highlands of Scotland. The ghost stories and legends of the region, or even Scotland as a whole, fascinated me as a child and captivated me again here. In terms of setting and atmosphere, the author portrays both with aplomb, making me feel the sense of unease that follows our protagonists around, and capturing that sense of impending doom, not just by way of Angus’ visions.
This is not a fast paced action and thrills kind of read. It’s more literary in a way, more contemplative. That doesn’t mean that it is lacking in suspense of tension as it has plenty of both. The further we get into the story, once the scene and the backstory has been established, I actually felt as though the pace picked up, and certainly towards the dramatic and, to be fair, slightly unexpected undoing, I found I was near racing through the pages. Certainly the final chapter speaks to what we might expect from the future, and I’m definitely intrigued to see what the fates (and ghosties and ghoulies) have in store for Angus and Gills next time.
If you like a suspenseful mystery, rich in folklore and legend, definitely give this a read. I think you’re going to like it. I can certainly see why it’s been shortlisted for the McIlvanney Debut Fiction prize this year at Bloody Scotland. It’s a story that has the potential to haunt long after you close the book.
In The Unforgiven Dead we meet Constable Angus MacNeil, a police officer who has a rather unique gift. He is a seer, someone who has visions of future events, or those that have only recently come to pass. He has been trying to ignore this gift, managing his visions with pills and, something he is no longer able to do when his latest vision leads him to the discovery a young woman, murdered and left on the beach near to his highland home. It brings him into the world of the Chichester family, and patriarch James, whose plans to reintroduce wolves to the highlands have met with more than a little resistance. But is that reason enough for murder, or are far darker forces at play?
I liked Angus as a character. He is haunted, literally, by airings from his past and the pain of his gift which he had been discouraged from following by his father. There is no doubt that he is a good man, conflicted and in denial though he may be, but his reluctance to embrace his foresight is understandable.
Alongside him is his old friend Gills, a man who understands what Angus can do and encourages him to listen to what his visions are telling him. Gills is also a Historian, with a specialism in the folklore of the region, something that proves invaluable in this particular grizzly investigation.
Then there is DI Nadia Sharif, a face from Angus’ past who haunts him for very different reasons. Nadia is a no nonsense kind, plagued by her own regrets and demons, but between her and Angus they make a perfect team.
This is far from your straight forward murder case. For one thing, there is a ritualistic element, a real sense of ‘overkill’ in the fate that befalls the victim. But then that ties into the whole sense of tribalism and folklore that informs the story. Fulton Ross has done a grand job in bringing this to our attention, delivering a lot of information and setting the scenes perfectly, both through present day and reference to scenes throughout history.
Regionally, the location is perfect, there being such a history of mythology around the Highlands of Scotland. The ghost stories and legends of the region, or even Scotland as a whole, fascinated me as a child and captivated me again here. In terms of setting and atmosphere, the author portrays both with aplomb, making me feel the sense of unease that follows our protagonists around, and capturing that sense of impending doom, not just by way of Angus’ visions.
This is not a fast paced action and thrills kind of read. It’s more literary in a way, more contemplative. That doesn’t mean that it is lacking in suspense of tension as it has plenty of both. The further we get into the story, once the scene and the backstory has been established, I actually felt as though the pace picked up, and certainly towards the dramatic and, to be fair, slightly unexpected undoing, I found I was near racing through the pages. Certainly the final chapter speaks to what we might expect from the future, and I’m definitely intrigued to see what the fates (and ghosties and ghoulies) have in store for Angus and Gills next time.
If you like a suspenseful mystery, rich in folklore and legend, definitely give this a read. I think you’re going to like it. I can certainly see why it’s been shortlisted for the McIlvanney Debut Fiction prize this year at Bloody Scotland. It’s a story that has the potential to haunt long after you close the book.
May 1, 2024
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
The Unforgiven Dead is a paranormal Scottish mystery/horror mashup by Fulton Ross. Released 25th July 2023, it's 432 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.
This is an atmospheric read, full of brooding "tartan noir" and dread, but also quite difficult and not very immersive in general. Readers should expect to expend some effort to stay immersed in the story, which is diffuse and dreamlike in places, especially the first 30%. The author has juxtaposed ancient folklore and horror with a modern procedural novel. It's not always entirely seamless or successful, but it felt earnest and the author -is- undeniably talented with narrative prose.
There are spots which are horror tinged and graphic, about which more sensitive readers might need to be aware. The ending heavily foreshadows a possible continuation of the story. It's heavily influenced by traditional folklore and history of the Celts, especially Scotland. It bears repeating that this is a deeper read and will be best enjoyed by readers who are either interested in the subject or who want a read which needs some contemplation, and not just a passive read which will carry them along.
Four stars. Fascinating, deep, and a substantially long read which requires some concentration. Not for the faint hearted.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
The Unforgiven Dead is a paranormal Scottish mystery/horror mashup by Fulton Ross. Released 25th July 2023, it's 432 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.
This is an atmospheric read, full of brooding "tartan noir" and dread, but also quite difficult and not very immersive in general. Readers should expect to expend some effort to stay immersed in the story, which is diffuse and dreamlike in places, especially the first 30%. The author has juxtaposed ancient folklore and horror with a modern procedural novel. It's not always entirely seamless or successful, but it felt earnest and the author -is- undeniably talented with narrative prose.
There are spots which are horror tinged and graphic, about which more sensitive readers might need to be aware. The ending heavily foreshadows a possible continuation of the story. It's heavily influenced by traditional folklore and history of the Celts, especially Scotland. It bears repeating that this is a deeper read and will be best enjoyed by readers who are either interested in the subject or who want a read which needs some contemplation, and not just a passive read which will carry them along.
Four stars. Fascinating, deep, and a substantially long read which requires some concentration. Not for the faint hearted.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
July 27, 2023
The Scottish Highlands are a place of secrets and shadows and this is captured in this mystery drama which incorporates the myths and legends of folklore and places them firmly into a sophisticated thriller. With its short sharp chapters I was quickly drawn into a murder/mystery which seems to have one foot in superstition, and the other in the drama of local animosity.
Constable Angus ‘Dubh’ MacNeil carries the burden of having second sight. Plagued by dreams which interrupt his sleep and tear at his soul, and tormented by those victims he couldn't save, Angus is drawn to the beach early one morning where he discovers the body of a young woman. This macabre discovery, plunges Angus right into the heart of the mystery surrounding Faye Chichester's brutal, and ritualistic, death. What then follows is a tightly packed drama which offers new insight into the popular Scottish Noir genre and combines dark and mysterious with a complex police investigation. However, this is no ordinary police investigation and the small community in the village of Glenruig, a place Angus calls home, is very much part of the developing drama.
The Unforgiven Dead is an atmospheric and brooding crime drama which starts slowly and builds into an imaginative picture of a place riven with secrets, and of a troubled man tormented by his past and of the victims he couldn't save. It is an interesting debut novel by an emerging writer and as it's already been optioned for television I look forward to seeing the story brought to life on screen.
April 27, 2024
**4.5 stars**
This was a fantastic supernatural occult police procedural, almost like a Scottish Charlie Parker book. I loved the characters and setting, the setting itself was almost like a character in the story. I felt like I knew the characters in the story especially Angus and his wife. I’ve been to the Highlands so that probably added to my enjoyment of the book because I’ve seen and experienced the weather, mountains, etc. but even if you’ve never been the author describes everything so clearly you feel like you’re there.
I’ve seen some negative reviews for this book about it being too long and drawn out but I did not feel that at all. The author spends a lot of time with the background on the area, the characters, and the Celtic and supernatural beliefs that are used in the story and to do that well takes time. Even though I received an ARC via NetGalley (thanks to the author and publisher) I also listened to the Audible audiobook for most of the story so I could hear my favorite accent in the world and that definitely added to my enjoyment of the book.
Overall if you love Scotland, atmospheric detective stories that include the supernatural I highly recommend this book especially the audiobook version. The only reason I gave it 4.5 stars is because I correctly guessed Faye’s killer but I don’t think most people will. I very much hope the author continues Angus’ story, I’ll definitely be in line to read/listen to it if he does.
This was a fantastic supernatural occult police procedural, almost like a Scottish Charlie Parker book. I loved the characters and setting, the setting itself was almost like a character in the story. I felt like I knew the characters in the story especially Angus and his wife. I’ve been to the Highlands so that probably added to my enjoyment of the book because I’ve seen and experienced the weather, mountains, etc. but even if you’ve never been the author describes everything so clearly you feel like you’re there.
I’ve seen some negative reviews for this book about it being too long and drawn out but I did not feel that at all. The author spends a lot of time with the background on the area, the characters, and the Celtic and supernatural beliefs that are used in the story and to do that well takes time. Even though I received an ARC via NetGalley (thanks to the author and publisher) I also listened to the Audible audiobook for most of the story so I could hear my favorite accent in the world and that definitely added to my enjoyment of the book.
Overall if you love Scotland, atmospheric detective stories that include the supernatural I highly recommend this book especially the audiobook version. The only reason I gave it 4.5 stars is because I correctly guessed Faye’s killer but I don’t think most people will. I very much hope the author continues Angus’ story, I’ll definitely be in line to read/listen to it if he does.
December 30, 2023
This is a great book let down by poor editing.
First, the good stuff. I loved the supernatural and folkloric elements, the author’s sense of place is spot-on with prose that oozes atmospheric dread. The characters are three dimensional and likeable and their behaviours seem reasonable and in character. The plot moved along and I really enjoyed that.
But…
It’s a bit long. There are many scenes that could be cut without negatively affecting the story. A few characters could be dropped too, I think. For example,I don’t think the scenes with Angus’s father contributed much to the story, for the most part.
Within the first 40% of the book there were FOUR incidences of the phrase “one-shouldered shrug” and two of a character holding their chin in their hand. There were a few typos - rationale for rational, one for on, etc. There was no break in the text to indicate a change of scene and this could be a little confusing.
A better editor would transform this book. The story is great and the author is obviously talented but next time, and I really hope there is a next time, get a different editor.
First, the good stuff. I loved the supernatural and folkloric elements, the author’s sense of place is spot-on with prose that oozes atmospheric dread. The characters are three dimensional and likeable and their behaviours seem reasonable and in character. The plot moved along and I really enjoyed that.
But…
It’s a bit long. There are many scenes that could be cut without negatively affecting the story. A few characters could be dropped too, I think. For example,I don’t think the scenes with Angus’s father contributed much to the story, for the most part.
Within the first 40% of the book there were FOUR incidences of the phrase “one-shouldered shrug” and two of a character holding their chin in their hand. There were a few typos - rationale for rational, one for on, etc. There was no break in the text to indicate a change of scene and this could be a little confusing.
A better editor would transform this book. The story is great and the author is obviously talented but next time, and I really hope there is a next time, get a different editor.
August 24, 2023
I read a lot of crime fiction but have never read anything like this novel before. There is a murder to be investigated but what differs is that the lead character is haunted by visions, one of which is of the ghost of the victim. This triggers events from his past where he has been able to ‘see’ murder victims. One of whom he knew very well. However the standout part of this novel was the connection to Gaelic folklore, which I have no knowledge of at all. And annoyingly for me, I was unable to pronounce any of it.
Even though this was a crime novel I felt that the murder almost seemed to be less important to me than the characters. There was so much to learn about them, even the less prominent figures seemed important to the storyline. Some were extremely intimidating, at least one of them I misunderstood and a couple I could laugh at. The ‘knicker snatcher’ was a storyline that made me smirk every time it appeared, alongside the superior officer who thought it was a priority. The main character, Angus, was one of the most fascinating, complex, guilt ridden, passionate, frustrated that I have read about. I also appreciated seeing his wife appear, a lot of the time a partner is seen but never features prominently.
It is quite a while since I spent so much time on google when reading a novel. I felt like I needed to know the area and the legend that was connected but I could have still have enjoyed this novel without doing so. It was just my preference, to get the most of my reading. It meant it took me longer to read but this was no great hardship.
I would love this series to continue, it was so refreshing to read something a little different.
Even though this was a crime novel I felt that the murder almost seemed to be less important to me than the characters. There was so much to learn about them, even the less prominent figures seemed important to the storyline. Some were extremely intimidating, at least one of them I misunderstood and a couple I could laugh at. The ‘knicker snatcher’ was a storyline that made me smirk every time it appeared, alongside the superior officer who thought it was a priority. The main character, Angus, was one of the most fascinating, complex, guilt ridden, passionate, frustrated that I have read about. I also appreciated seeing his wife appear, a lot of the time a partner is seen but never features prominently.
It is quite a while since I spent so much time on google when reading a novel. I felt like I needed to know the area and the legend that was connected but I could have still have enjoyed this novel without doing so. It was just my preference, to get the most of my reading. It meant it took me longer to read but this was no great hardship.
I would love this series to continue, it was so refreshing to read something a little different.
November 18, 2024
Atmospheric. That's the word that's top of mind when I think of this book. The second would be chilling. For a debut novel, this is a tour de force and a love song wrapped into one. Ross captures the magic and depth of the Highlands with prose so vibrant and impactful that you can almost feel the salt spray on your face, the frigid air as you traverse the harsh hills with the characters and smell the warm smoke and whiskey when they're finally indoors. This book delivered from beginning to end.
It is a feat of a murder mystery, but if you enjoy mythology, mysticism and good down-right blood chilling creepiness, this is the book for you. It starts a bit slow, but like an excellently crafted piece of music, it build to a crescendo that doesn't disappoint. This book ended with room for this to become a series, and I will say, if Ross does write a series, I will buy and read each and every one.
It is a feat of a murder mystery, but if you enjoy mythology, mysticism and good down-right blood chilling creepiness, this is the book for you. It starts a bit slow, but like an excellently crafted piece of music, it build to a crescendo that doesn't disappoint. This book ended with room for this to become a series, and I will say, if Ross does write a series, I will buy and read each and every one.
July 25, 2023
This Tartan Horror/Mystery had me creeped out in the middle of the night! And yet, I couldn’t put it down, spine shivers be damned!
The novel revolves around a murder of a young girl and the mystery of her gruesome death, as seen through the eyes of the local constable who is investigating it, Angus. But this policeman is extraordinarily gifted with paranormal (in)sight, a legacy of his own haunted past. What results is a deeply engrossing whodunit woven through with Gaelic history and culture. For readers who enjoy hints of the demonic, pagan, and ancient evils, The Unforgiven Dead will have you prancing a ritual dance. For readers who love a twisted murder mystery, one in which the murderer is hidden in plain sight alá Agatha Christie, The Unforgiven Dead will absolutely make you squeal once the culprit is exposed.
But the story alone is not the novel’s only draw. The characters of this novel are deftly crafted, their dialogue mimics life, their motivations are raw and human and utterly flawed. For readers of literary fiction, the trials of Angus, Nadia, Gills, and Ashleigh will rent your heart. Their lives mimic reality and their hurts are ones we are likely to relate to, if we don’t know them well already.
The Unforgiven Dead leaves me pining for a moody, grey Scotland more than I could have imagined.
The novel revolves around a murder of a young girl and the mystery of her gruesome death, as seen through the eyes of the local constable who is investigating it, Angus. But this policeman is extraordinarily gifted with paranormal (in)sight, a legacy of his own haunted past. What results is a deeply engrossing whodunit woven through with Gaelic history and culture. For readers who enjoy hints of the demonic, pagan, and ancient evils, The Unforgiven Dead will have you prancing a ritual dance. For readers who love a twisted murder mystery, one in which the murderer is hidden in plain sight alá Agatha Christie, The Unforgiven Dead will absolutely make you squeal once the culprit is exposed.
But the story alone is not the novel’s only draw. The characters of this novel are deftly crafted, their dialogue mimics life, their motivations are raw and human and utterly flawed. For readers of literary fiction, the trials of Angus, Nadia, Gills, and Ashleigh will rent your heart. Their lives mimic reality and their hurts are ones we are likely to relate to, if we don’t know them well already.
The Unforgiven Dead leaves me pining for a moody, grey Scotland more than I could have imagined.
August 20, 2023
A police procedural with a bit of a difference, this has Angus MacNeil who is a Highland seer - getting visions of deaths, where he’s often been too late to stop them and been made to feel like he should deny the Sight, medicate it away, by his father. But Angus’ father’s now in a home with dementia, and his friend Gills who has always encouraged Angus’ gift, helps Angus stop medicating and learn to listen to the visions - allowing him to save people.
There’s a lot of Scottish history and Gaelic words featured, for anyone who is a fan, and I did get a vivid picture of the characters, and would read more books featuring them. I struggled a little to follow the bit about why the murders were happening/supernatural aspect, but this might just have been me…
Thanks to Laura Sherlock and Inkshares for sending me a proof copy to read - this book is now published and available to buy.
There’s a lot of Scottish history and Gaelic words featured, for anyone who is a fan, and I did get a vivid picture of the characters, and would read more books featuring them. I struggled a little to follow the bit about why the murders were happening/supernatural aspect, but this might just have been me…
Thanks to Laura Sherlock and Inkshares for sending me a proof copy to read - this book is now published and available to buy.
November 21, 2023
This book follows Constable Angus MacNeil as he tries to solve the murder of a young girl in the Scottish highlands. Angus is blessed ( or cursed ) with the second sight, and although he foresaw the death, he wasn't able to prevent it. With the help of his friend and folklorist Gills, Angus must solve the mystery before more people die.
For me, this book started out a little slow, but a few chapters in really picked up and moved steadily to a satisfying ending. There's a colorful cast of characters, including the victim's father, who raises wolves, and the leader of a pagan commune. I had to look up the meaning of more than one of the scottish/gaelic words and phrases, but I consider that a plus, since I got to learn new things. I also enjoyed how the supernatual aspects were intertwined throughout the story
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.
For me, this book started out a little slow, but a few chapters in really picked up and moved steadily to a satisfying ending. There's a colorful cast of characters, including the victim's father, who raises wolves, and the leader of a pagan commune. I had to look up the meaning of more than one of the scottish/gaelic words and phrases, but I consider that a plus, since I got to learn new things. I also enjoyed how the supernatual aspects were intertwined throughout the story
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.
June 8, 2023
The Unforgiven Dead by Fulton Ross
The blurb for this book drew me in as it seemed to have a lead character with second sight that he was having difficulty embracing. The introduction was gripping but within that first chapter or two I found my mind wandering, not sure where the story was heading and, as I usually do, I ended up reading the ending to see what the outcome would be. At that point I decided that I would not finish the book even though the writing was clear and well edited it just did not feel a good fit for me at this time. I am sure others will enjoy and even love this book, though.
Thank you to NetGalley and Inkshares for the ARC – This is my honest review.
2-3 Stars
The blurb for this book drew me in as it seemed to have a lead character with second sight that he was having difficulty embracing. The introduction was gripping but within that first chapter or two I found my mind wandering, not sure where the story was heading and, as I usually do, I ended up reading the ending to see what the outcome would be. At that point I decided that I would not finish the book even though the writing was clear and well edited it just did not feel a good fit for me at this time. I am sure others will enjoy and even love this book, though.
Thank you to NetGalley and Inkshares for the ARC – This is my honest review.
2-3 Stars
August 16, 2023
Disclaimer: I received this book from Good Reads in exchange for a review.
The dead body of a young girl is found on the Scottish shore. She had been ritually killed, and the local constable needs to solve the case. She was the daughter of a rich American of Scottish heritage, a lord, who lived in the local castle. There are plenty of suspects, including her former porn star stepmother and a local druid group living nearby, as well as a local farmer who had some desire for her affections. Soon other bodies appear, and links to many other, older, murders start to appear. It doesn't help that her spirit keeps appearing to the constable. Steeped in Celtic and Scottish lore and history, this book is a fascinating read and very hard to put down. I highly recommend it.
The dead body of a young girl is found on the Scottish shore. She had been ritually killed, and the local constable needs to solve the case. She was the daughter of a rich American of Scottish heritage, a lord, who lived in the local castle. There are plenty of suspects, including her former porn star stepmother and a local druid group living nearby, as well as a local farmer who had some desire for her affections. Soon other bodies appear, and links to many other, older, murders start to appear. It doesn't help that her spirit keeps appearing to the constable. Steeped in Celtic and Scottish lore and history, this book is a fascinating read and very hard to put down. I highly recommend it.
August 22, 2023
This is not a fast paced thrill ride meant for a weekend at the beach. This book is slow paced and methodical, wrenching every ounce of storytelling and detail from the pages. Perfectly weaving history, superstition, religious beliefs, mystery, and science, planting itself expertly right in the middle, creating this sometimes otherworldly feel, while keeping the ongoing murder mystery theme alive. The final act is, in some ways, even more unsettling that the murders themselves. As the final pieces are perfectly placed in the puzzle, I wouldn’t say the twists and turns are earth-shattering, but my attention was glued page by page to the end nonetheless. An excellent book front to back if you are willing to stick with it.
December 8, 2022
I was drawn to this book by its description and dramatic sounding title.
This was a dark, gritty thriller, and a very well-written one. I was drawn into the story right from the start. I didn't feel any particularly strong connection with any of the characters, or even find them particularly likeable, but the writing was so powerful, and I was drawn to the story itself more than the characters.
The book's tone, and some of its themes, reminded me of Peter May's Entry Island, which is one of my favourite books that I've read a few times.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
This was a dark, gritty thriller, and a very well-written one. I was drawn into the story right from the start. I didn't feel any particularly strong connection with any of the characters, or even find them particularly likeable, but the writing was so powerful, and I was drawn to the story itself more than the characters.
The book's tone, and some of its themes, reminded me of Peter May's Entry Island, which is one of my favourite books that I've read a few times.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
February 17, 2025
The myths of the Highlands reverberate through this dark thriller. Police Officer Angus MacNeill has hidden himself away in the town of his birth, worried that his gifts of 'seeing' might be a madness from which he cannot escape. When the local laird's daughter is murdered, a killing Angus experiences, his past comes back to haunt him.
I've played with the Celtic myths of the Cailleach in my writings, alongside murder and the history of Scotland, so this ticked every box for me. These themes, combined with Ross's ability to create strong characters and an atmosphere of dread, result in a great story. I do hope he gets to publish the second in the series.
I've played with the Celtic myths of the Cailleach in my writings, alongside murder and the history of Scotland, so this ticked every box for me. These themes, combined with Ross's ability to create strong characters and an atmosphere of dread, result in a great story. I do hope he gets to publish the second in the series.
December 18, 2023
Although hard to get into this book was rewarding. The setting (Scottish highlands), and protaganist (Angus - a constable who can foresee some deaths) were lovely while the story went in a twist that I wasn’t expecting coming from a (what I thought) was primarily a police procedural. I just wish this wasn’t this authors first work!
“what then, was life, if not the search for knowledge in the face of darkness? What was the point of any of it without knowledge?”
“what then, was life, if not the search for knowledge in the face of darkness? What was the point of any of it without knowledge?”
February 13, 2023
A+ for the cover design!! There were so many things happening in this book that I couldn’t help but feel confused. Such interesting premise, but I was not patient enough to understand what was going on. Heard that this story is being developed for TV and I’m definitely watching it!
Thank you Inkshares for the gifted ebook!
Thank you Inkshares for the gifted ebook!
August 22, 2023
This took me FOREVER to get into. I can't say for certain if it was the book's fault or mine. However, after a rough start, I found my stride with this story and really enjoyed it. I loved the supernatural and mythological element to this story. I hope the author continues on. Well done for a debut!
September 12, 2023
I’m giving this 1 star but it’s really 1.5
This book sounded so interesting from the blurb but I just did not enjoy it at all
I would have DNF’d this book if I wasn’t trying to read all of the Bloody Scotland debut prize nominees.
I’m Scottish and love reading books by Scottish authors but this one just didn’t do it for me at all
This book sounded so interesting from the blurb but I just did not enjoy it at all
I would have DNF’d this book if I wasn’t trying to read all of the Bloody Scotland debut prize nominees.
I’m Scottish and love reading books by Scottish authors but this one just didn’t do it for me at all
March 31, 2024
I believe this is Ross' debut novel and I wasn't sure what I was going to be reading, but it is a very gripping, thought provoking crime novel with distinct ties to Scottish culture and in particular Scottish paranormal culture. I can't wait for the next installment to find out what Angus and Gills get up to next
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