Ian Skair has a new client. He has been invited to an ancient castle perched on a rocky promontory on the Angus coast by charismatic Alexander Lyton, Laird of Drumlychtoun. The laird wants Ian to find his sister Ailish. It should be a simple missing person search, but most families have their secrets and black sheep, and the Lytons of Drumlychtoun have more than their fair share. The Drumlychtoun estate has passed from father to son over the generations. Alexander is childless and Ailish is assumed to be his heir. But they haven’t seen each other for over fifty years. Ailish left home when she was nineteen and hasn’t been heard of since. The case becomes more and more complex as Ian uncovers secrets and intrigues, thefts and legends which could lead both him and the family into danger.
Can Ian reunite the laird with his sister? Or will it mean telling Alexander more than he really wants to know?
I really enjoyed this book - the characters, the settings, the action. Since it is the introduction to Ian Skair Private Investigator, I am happily looking forward to further books in the series. It has the attractions of Scotland settings, interesting and lively characters and good and lively pace. I look forward to spending more time with this PI and his dog.
I really enjoyed this book. The story went along at a nice pace. P.I Ian Skair is asked by a local Laird to find his missing heir loom ring and also his estranged sister, who he thinks may have stolen it! Along the way Ian finds some really interesting people and also making new friends. The case takes him in all different directions. He also learns the families history. Skair became a P.I after he was “shot” on duty as a police officer. He has a friend and connection in the local force where he lives, who helps him out here and there and he has his little dog Lottie. He has a kind heart and genuinely wants to help people. This case leads him to a few unpleasant people as he gets to the bottom of the case. This story would make a great T.V programme. I received an advance copy of this book and would thoroughly recommend it. I look forward to Ian’s next case.
The Laird of Drumlychtoun is the first full length mystery novel in Hilary Pugh's Ian Skair: Private Investigator series. I picked this up without realising that it had been proceeded by a novella called Finding Lottie. It didn't take me too long to realise as the previous work is referred to non-stop. A little too much in my opinion. I get that you want to create a sense of context and history but this novel assumed a level of knowledge about its reader. You don't really get much history about the characters and certain supporting characters are mentioned with little or no explanation. It's not a major problem but it does break up the natural flow of the story when the narrator is constantly reminiscing about things you didn't experience with them.
The whole narration of the book is a little scatty. It seems like it's trying to recreate more of a stream of consciousness vibe but it can be a bit jarring. One minute we're investigating a mystery and the next the narrator is thinking about something totally unconnected. I don't mind a story veering off in random directions but it doesn't seem to happen for any reason. It's not as if they often help with any breakthroughs. Mostly because Ian Skair is a pretty shrewd Private Investigator. He makes everything seem so easy, which I guess is what you want from a good detective. He knows what he's doing and he finds things out pretty quickly. This is certainly a book that doesn't waste any time and I enjoyed the pace.
It's an entertaining story as well. I won't pretend that it's the most surprising thriller you'll ever read but Hilary Pugh does leave you with one twist at the end. It's a classic example of cosy crime. You just want to curl up with it and let go. Something that the Scottish setting helps with a lot. There's a lot of driving through lush countryside and it's brought to life in this book. You get a sense of Scotland and its people through Pugh's story. It all starts with an email from the wife of the Laird of Drumlychtoun. His sister went missing years ago. Now that the laird, Alexander Lyton, has uncovered a long-hidden secret, he gets in touch with Skair to track down his sibling. Will Skair be able to find Ailish and reunite the brother and sister? And just what other secrets will he uncover along the way?
It won't take a genius detective to figure out how this one ends but that doesn't mean you can't have some fun along the way. It's a very traditional and classic mystery novel. A simple missing person case quickly becomes something more sinister and Skair finds himself getting into murkier waters. This is a very readable book that fans of cosy crime will surely enjoy. I wish there had been a bit more character development and time to establish the context of the novel. We learn very little about Skair and the people he meets along the way. The reader doesn't have much chance to form their own opinion before Skair has figured them out for us. However, it's a very charming book and I could definitely see myself reading more in the future.
In the vein of cozy mystery, this one fits the bill: Palate cleanser level that is quick to read: check Ease and simplicity to plot: check Cute characters: check Set in enjoyable place: Scotland in this case, which I am a sucker for so triple check!
My only real gripe is the referencing to a previous book. The book I actually read and am revising here is listed as first in a series, but apparently the the main character as well as some others were introduced in a previous story that I was not aware of. This does not keep you from following the story or anything, but the book did two things in regards to that which I found a bit annoying.
1. Reference the previous story over and over and over again in terms of its plot. Mentioning it once I would allow I guess, but the repetitive nature of it was a bit much, especially since none of it was relevant to the current story in question.
2. On the flip side to this coin, assuming the reader knows way more about some of these characters than they actually do... especially if they have not read this previous book. I have not, so unsure how much of those missing pieces exist there, but this is the info from this previous book that would have actually been helpful to bring up. Again not in a I'm so lost way, but more in a I'm missing some dimension to these characters that I would really love to see.
This was a mystery set in a (few) lovely quaint Scottish towns. I loved the descriptions of the areas and the quaint life Ian lives. While the "cosy" was brilliant, the "mystery" seemed to lack any intrigue whatsoever. The case seemed to be solved way too easily and then it was just tea and luncheons rather than anything keeping me interested. I was quite disappointed, actually, as the MYSTERY seemed to lack a bit of substance.
I would recommend to anyone who enjoys the "cosy" over the "mystery".
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I had fun with this one it was a fast read and a not super complicated mystery. It was fun to be able to figure things out with the story with the detective. The Scottish setting really came through and helped give the story a vibe that was very cozy.
But with all the good I have said I can say that there were a few issues... The book was very floaty like things just happened as convenient.
Also the one thing that drove me a bit wild was the constant referencing to other books from Pugh's works but it was never stated anywhere that this book was in connection to any of the others. Claims to be the first in the series but contains references to works before... confusing to say the least.
But overall I had a very good time with this book it was a nice fast mystery story to read on a rainy day.
Private eye Ian Skair is hired by the Laird of Drumlychtoun to find his missing sister. What seems like a simple missing persons case soon turns into a web of intrigue for the investigator as there’s more going on than meets the eye!
I very much enjoyed this book. The characters are interesting and likable. In particular, the main character is very easy to take to as is his super cute dog, Lottie. The setting is superb and makes an excellent backdrop for the intrigue. The plot is unique. Most cozies are murder mysteries so I enjoyed a new twist in the genre with a mystery without a murder. The book is an easy, pleasant read that will make you feel good. The ending sets up for another book in the series to tickle the reader’s interest.
I would recommend this book if you’re looking for a fantastic cozy read to curl up with!
I received a review copy from Voracious Readers Only and this is my honest opinion. This is the first book by this author I have read but it won't be the last. It is an excellent mystery with realistic characters, plenty of action, natural-sounding dialogue, and my favorite, a dog. Ms. Pugh proved my contention that it isn't necessary to have graphic sex scenes and deplorable language in order to write an interesting, realistic mystery/thriller. She did a great job. My only criticism is that I wish the ending had been developed a little more. In my opinion, while it answered all of the basic questions, I would have liked a little more detail on the "how it was accomplished" part of the ending. I felt it left a bit unanswered. However, in spite of that, I will be checking out the next book in the series and hoping there will be more to come.
The first book in the Ian Skair Scottish mystery series is extremely well written. The main characters are very realistic, and the scenery descriptions make me want to live it this type of town. Ian, the main character, owns a private detective business after being force out of the police force, and is doing his best to make it all work. When one of her clients are in search of a missing sister/ring, Ian does some sleuthing to find what happened. I especially liked the fact that it is a clean wholesome likeness in this book! Very family friendly! It was interesting and the main character tells a potential love interest known as lady friends but are not exploited more then that. I recommend this book to any cozy mystery lover and anyone who just likes a good mystery. As well as a family story book with no sex or such.
I’ll admit, the story took a little time to draw me in—but by the third chapter, I was completely hooked. Hilary Pugh crafts a thoughtful and layered story that builds momentum with each chapter, rewarding the listener with rich character development and a satisfying emotional arc.
Charles Robert Fox’s narration is a standout. His performance brings the story to life with nuance and charm, and his accent adds an authentic and immersive touch that I absolutely loved. He captures the tone and emotion of each scene perfectly, enhancing the overall experience.
If you're looking for a story that rewards patience with depth and heart, this audiobook is well worth your time. I’m so glad I stuck with it!
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
After he's invalided out of the police Ian is now a private investigator. He gets a letter from the laird of Drumlychtoun which intrigues him. He is soon hired to find an estranged sister and who stole a precious ring with an ancient legend attached. The problem is this happened 50 years ago.
There follows a fun filled story set in beautiful Scottish country. With people coming out of the woodwork, mystery strangers and lots of dogs there's something for everyone.
If you like cosy mysteries with an absence of violence and gore this could well be for you.
A negative is that this is said to be the first story but it soon became obvious that there is a short story before which is referenced on several occasions.
I received this book for free and the views expressed are solely mine.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Plot: a retired policeman turned private detective is hired by the laird of an estate in Angus to track down a ring, and his adventures lead to him meeting new people, mostly saccharine sweet with a couple of exceptions, and taking a quick trip to London.
Stars: would have given this 2.5.
Reason for stars: The plot is silly, the cast too nice to be real, and even the baddie could be brought down too easily. The writing is fine, and the dialogue not too stilted.
Suitable for: readers of cozy mysteries who don’t like bloodshed, but do like dogs.
DNF at 26% on Kindle. It seams that this book is mostly cozy and much less mystery. For the first 1/4 of the book we have 2 interviews, some idea of mystery and for the rest we are following Ian as he is going about his everyday life like walking a dog, buying groceries, buying sofa etc. in minute detail. Mercifully we are not following Ian to bathroom, but I am sure if those activities could be "cozyfied" we will be there too. Book is so boring that it's soporific potential can't be overstated. It even caused a small quantum anomaly - electrons going through my Kindle started to slow down. You have been warned!
Audiobook: This was my first experience with this author's work, and it was entertaining. I admired the setting of Scotland. I liked the character named Ian Skair, who was the private investigator hired by the laird. I loved his dog, Lottie. I enjoyed all the twists and turns in this case of the missing person. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. I thought Charles Robert Fox's narration enhanced the story's entertainment, and I appreciated the Scottish lilt which added authenticity to the story. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.
I enjoyed this intriguing story which I received as an audiobook. Charles Robert Fox’s narration added to the entertainment with his Scottish accent enhancing the book’s setting in Scotland. PI Ian Skair takes on a new case when the local Laird asks for Ian’s help. The Laird’s sister has been a stranger for over 50 years, whereabouts unknown, and an heirloom ring is missing. The story is more complex than it first appears. There’s plenty of family secrets and mixed intent. Recommend. Look forward to reading/listening to more in the series.
The Laird of Drumlychtoun is the first book in the Ian Skair: Private Investigator series by Hilary Pugh.
Ian Skair is a former police office who is now a private investigator who shares a house with his little dog, Lottie. The Laird of Drumlychtoun has a matter that he wants Ian to look into and that starts off quite an investigation. There are quite a few twists as the investigation progresses and it is much more than just locating a missing person.
I really enjoyed the start of this new series. The main characters are wonderful, the dog is adorable, and it’s an interesting storyline. I can’t wait to see what Ian‘s next case!
I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The Laird of Drumlychtoun is the first full length mystery novel in the Ian Skair: Private Investigator series.. Patricia Loofbourrow has a way of crafting her story, masterfully interwoven with progressive world building, action, and delving deeply into his characters persona without overdoing one thing or another. I highly recommend this novel. I gave this honest, voluntary review after being given a free copy of the book with no monetary compensation
Intriguing, entertaining, absorbing all describe this well written book. It was a pleasure to read from beginning to end. Well fleshed out characters that were believable and yet normal. The stories within the story all fit perfectly together. Many thanks to Hilary Pugh for her complimentary copy of The Laird of Drumlychtoun via Voracious Reader’s Only. Looking forward to reading your next books.
A really enjoyable read. I love tartan noir, but it’s nice to get something a little more upbeat. This was a nice mix of characters, setting, and mystery. The main mystery really is resolved fairly early but there’s enough to keep you wanting to know more. Plus, dogs! Definitely a series I’m interested in reading more.
I received a free copy without requirement for a review from voracious readers.
Ian Skair is a nice investigator without an overblown ego. It was enjoyable trailing along with him as he unraveled the Laird's family secrets. He muses about unrelated things along the way. Action and excitement only at the very end. I'd give it a 5 if Ian expressed a real interest in anything--food, music, football, marbles? Surely the man really enjoys SOMETHING. I'm off to read about his next case.
Audiobook review: I enjoyed both the story and the narrator. The narrator was easy to understand and I liked his voice. The story was an entertaining cozy mystery. Ian was a thorough PI, being hired to find an estranged sister. Plus there was the mystery of the missing family heirloom ring. I thought the story flowed well.
I received a free copy of the audiobook from StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I love this detective, Ian Skair. He's a down home every day ok guy. And, of course, his wee dog, Lottie is so cute. He solves this mystery piece by piece along with other questions that pop up along the way. Very entertaining.
I was gifted an Audible version of this book from the author through Story Origin. The narrator gets 3.5 stars. He presents the story well. But he has this strong Scottish accent and I just couldn't understand some of his words. Definitely my problem, not his.
I think I have discovered a like for mysteries. I've read a few now and I like the easy going pace of this one. It's not intense or dark, I love Ian and his dog Lottie, but also enjoyed meeting the other characters alongside Ian. I love that it was set close to home and I could imagine where the castle would have been set. The story was easy to follow, light and not have to think too much into it. I will certainly be following Ian and Lottie's story further.
I enjoyed this novel. It has the perfect mix for a detective series and it was refreshing to read a straightforward novel where there were enough but not too many elements and nothing too dark. The protagonist was likeable and the subsidiary characters well developed. If you're after a cosy weekend read, this could be for you.
This was my first book from this author and it did not disappoint! I truly enjoyed all of the characters and the setting the book took place in. I definitely would recommend this book to others especially if you like a good mystery with a touch of romance. I cannot wait for the next adventure for Ian Skair and Lottie! Thank you for allowing me to read this copy sent to me. I truly enjoyed it.
It was a great mystery and I enjoyed the process of Ian figuring it out. There were some moments when Ian was investigating that I thought dragged on a little longer than necessary but the author did a great job of tying all of the information back together. Overall a good read.
Side note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
This is the first book I have read by this author and really enjoyed it. Good characters and interesting plot. I was impressed with Ian the Private Investigator and look forward to next book in series. Also no sex or gratuitous violence. Would definitely recommend to anyone who likes a good mystery. The icing on the cake is the setting Scotland.
The plot was good and the location descriptions well done. There is a lot of backstory missing that led to some confusion. I double checked that is was indeed the first book in the series. It could be editied down a bit. (I do not need to know everytime he walks his dog). I like how Ian thinks and ponders the case and I think it's a good base for stories going forward.
I listened to the audiobook of this first book in the series after having read the 3rd. Both can be enjoyed as a standalone. The narrator does have a thick Scottish accent which I thought added an enhanced quality to the cozy mystery and brought the characters to life. There were a number of twists and turns and a lot of depth to the characters.
I haven’t read a book in such a long time due to circumstances and what a way to start my reading urge This book is a treat - so easy to follow so easy to read but so hard to put down. Loved the characters can’t wait for more of the same Would recommend to anyone