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Mysterious Scotland #1
The Bone Trap
A single murder… An unidentified animal skull … Sightings of a tusked horse … Flesh on the bones of an old Scottish myth.
A struggling Scottish scientist holds a potential unicorn skull in his hands. If he proves it’s authentic, his career will be made. If he dies trying, he won’t be the first.
Gillan McArdle’s academic career is ending because of one stupid lapse of judgement. But he’s the most talented young archaeologist in Scotland, and a Dundee based media outfit can use his skills. Offered a short term contract, he lands on the Hebridean island of Harris to investigate obscure animal bones. Quickly dismissing the unicorn skull as a thinly disguised fake, he can’t deny there’s something unusual about these bones. Baited by rumours of a majestic tusked horse roaming the upland moors, Gill begins to suspect someone is manipulating him. As he gradually unravels the mystery of the skull, he arrives at one disturbing conclusion. If this creature does exist, all the evidence suggests it’s a killer.
A struggling Scottish scientist holds a potential unicorn skull in his hands. If he proves it’s authentic, his career will be made. If he dies trying, he won’t be the first.
Gillan McArdle’s academic career is ending because of one stupid lapse of judgement. But he’s the most talented young archaeologist in Scotland, and a Dundee based media outfit can use his skills. Offered a short term contract, he lands on the Hebridean island of Harris to investigate obscure animal bones. Quickly dismissing the unicorn skull as a thinly disguised fake, he can’t deny there’s something unusual about these bones. Baited by rumours of a majestic tusked horse roaming the upland moors, Gill begins to suspect someone is manipulating him. As he gradually unravels the mystery of the skull, he arrives at one disturbing conclusion. If this creature does exist, all the evidence suggests it’s a killer.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 14, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews
May 18, 2024
A well researched story!
Unfortunately, I struggled to complete the book and nearly gave up at the halfway stage. We had a disgraced archaeologist, who had fabricated a section of his PhD research, taking up a journalistic job with an esoteric magazine, 'Mysterious Scotland'. He is sent to the remote island of Harris in the Scottish Hebrides in order to investigate the alleged discovery of a mythical beast. Putting his already tattered academic reputation on the line he diligently carries out the task and uncovers unethical and possibly illegal genetic research being conducted by a secret organisation. He gets himself into all sorts of dangerous and life threatening scrapes as he seeks to uncover the truth behind local myths and legends. I should have really engaged with this story but, for some reason, I couldn't. Still, other readers have given it five star reviews so the problem must be mine. Sorry!
Unfortunately, I struggled to complete the book and nearly gave up at the halfway stage. We had a disgraced archaeologist, who had fabricated a section of his PhD research, taking up a journalistic job with an esoteric magazine, 'Mysterious Scotland'. He is sent to the remote island of Harris in the Scottish Hebrides in order to investigate the alleged discovery of a mythical beast. Putting his already tattered academic reputation on the line he diligently carries out the task and uncovers unethical and possibly illegal genetic research being conducted by a secret organisation. He gets himself into all sorts of dangerous and life threatening scrapes as he seeks to uncover the truth behind local myths and legends. I should have really engaged with this story but, for some reason, I couldn't. Still, other readers have given it five star reviews so the problem must be mine. Sorry!
November 2, 2023
Well Researched Story About Unicorns + History
So did you ever wonder what a REAL unicorn would be like? I don't mean the fantasy creature that runs on rainbows and sports a magical horn that can do magic or heal injuries.... But the REAL one that the stories + legends are based on? What would that creature be like? Most animals who have horns use them to attack \ self defense. They are not prancing around on rainbows and having flowers sprout where they step.
And that is what this story is about: looking at what a realistic unicorn (waterhorse) would be like. And I found it quite fascinating! I am horse crazy and I do ride horses too but I have never read a book quite like this one before... One that examines how a unicorn may come about and what such a creature may be like.
I do recall seeing an image of the black unicorn fighting a white unicorn decades ago! But I never knew it was from Scottish history. I also recall the image of the unicorn fighting the lion. Didn't know it was from the British flag. As a kid you don't know these things.
I liked that the story mixes science and history and archeology with a fantastic story. It starts out a bit slowly to introduce characters and then has lots of breathtaking action.. I was shocked at some of the risky things the main character, Gill, was doing! Its great fun. Action and danger and Gill risking his life + limb just to do his job. And what he thought would be a little side job turns out to be a huge discovery!
And yes, there is real archeology in here with digging stuff up. And nasty bad guys who have their own agenda too!
I enjoyed all the characters. They are interesting. And the story was never boring at all. In fact it moved at a good pace.
Before reading this I never realized that unicorns were linked to Scotland. I have heard of the "waterhorse" before but was unsure what that was. The story also !mentions a much older creature called the Pictish Beast. You can find ancient drawings of it online. Is it supposed to be a unicorn?? What did the ancient people see when they drew the Pictish Beast? What was the drawing based on? The story explores all of this plus deals with science as well. You could say its a fun action story for the smart reader as its not just mindless action. A lot of thought went into writing this, A lot of research.
Were there ever real unicorns, an equine species with a horn on their head? Other ungulates sport horns. why not an equine?
Look forward to reading the next book in this series!
I do wish the cover image would show the unicorn \ waterhorse. Or at least show horses. I think that would attract more readers who are interested in the subject. Because at the moment the cover gives you no clue this is a horse related story.
So did you ever wonder what a REAL unicorn would be like? I don't mean the fantasy creature that runs on rainbows and sports a magical horn that can do magic or heal injuries.... But the REAL one that the stories + legends are based on? What would that creature be like? Most animals who have horns use them to attack \ self defense. They are not prancing around on rainbows and having flowers sprout where they step.
And that is what this story is about: looking at what a realistic unicorn (waterhorse) would be like. And I found it quite fascinating! I am horse crazy and I do ride horses too but I have never read a book quite like this one before... One that examines how a unicorn may come about and what such a creature may be like.
I do recall seeing an image of the black unicorn fighting a white unicorn decades ago! But I never knew it was from Scottish history. I also recall the image of the unicorn fighting the lion. Didn't know it was from the British flag. As a kid you don't know these things.
I liked that the story mixes science and history and archeology with a fantastic story. It starts out a bit slowly to introduce characters and then has lots of breathtaking action.. I was shocked at some of the risky things the main character, Gill, was doing! Its great fun. Action and danger and Gill risking his life + limb just to do his job. And what he thought would be a little side job turns out to be a huge discovery!
And yes, there is real archeology in here with digging stuff up. And nasty bad guys who have their own agenda too!
I enjoyed all the characters. They are interesting. And the story was never boring at all. In fact it moved at a good pace.
Before reading this I never realized that unicorns were linked to Scotland. I have heard of the "waterhorse" before but was unsure what that was. The story also !mentions a much older creature called the Pictish Beast. You can find ancient drawings of it online. Is it supposed to be a unicorn?? What did the ancient people see when they drew the Pictish Beast? What was the drawing based on? The story explores all of this plus deals with science as well. You could say its a fun action story for the smart reader as its not just mindless action. A lot of thought went into writing this, A lot of research.
Were there ever real unicorns, an equine species with a horn on their head? Other ungulates sport horns. why not an equine?
Look forward to reading the next book in this series!
I do wish the cover image would show the unicorn \ waterhorse. Or at least show horses. I think that would attract more readers who are interested in the subject. Because at the moment the cover gives you no clue this is a horse related story.
April 18, 2023
I’ve been enthralled with unicorns for six decades. I do have a touch of Scottish in my ancestry. I really wanted to love this novel.
I found it good, but not great. The characters are somewhat two dimensional. I found Cormac the most intriguing, but his personality kind of jumps all over the place.
A somewhat disgraced archeologist, Gill, is offered a job researching an unusual skull in Scotland. He’s desperate for work, so he accepts a research position in Isle of Harris, which is a fairly remote location. He meets a mysterious young woman with Sight, and an older gentleman looking for the murderer of his son. Then a group doing genetic research shows up.
Fabulous initial concept. Okay story.
I found it good, but not great. The characters are somewhat two dimensional. I found Cormac the most intriguing, but his personality kind of jumps all over the place.
A somewhat disgraced archeologist, Gill, is offered a job researching an unusual skull in Scotland. He’s desperate for work, so he accepts a research position in Isle of Harris, which is a fairly remote location. He meets a mysterious young woman with Sight, and an older gentleman looking for the murderer of his son. Then a group doing genetic research shows up.
Fabulous initial concept. Okay story.
March 28, 2024
This book came out of nowhere as a really nice surprise in so many ways!
The author managed to spin a weird and wonderful story as if it could (sort of) be true - and I found it delightfully exciting and intriguing.
Gillan's background as an archaeologist was interesting and brought a fresh sort of perspective and academic touch to the investigation.
I really appreciated that in a way that I suspect you maybe only do if you (with an academic background) have spent time with other academics. There is a certain kind of different outlook on information and how problems are approached, compared to people in general that haven't done the whole "higher education dance", and all that jazz.
Done right - rather than in an obnoxious way and/or with superiority complex - an academic element often "ups the smarts", in my (not so humble) opinion.
I really like smart books. They are the reason why I keep picking new books all the time, even when I hit a lot of duds, rather than go back to stories I already know and like. Because when those clever stories with a new sort of spark show up they totally make my day.
So yeah! This book made me very happy.
The only things I found a bit iffy (as in: frankly a bit too weird) was the idea of metamorphosis of an entire horse (within hours!!!) - and the biker guy.
Like who the heck was the biker? I felt like I was missing some part of the puzzle by not being well versed in Scottish myths and lore, but what do I know!? (Answer: Nothing!)
I wish I could binge plenty of books in this series, but it seems like only number one and two have been turned into audiobooks, so far. I will have to be patient and hope more of them show up.
For now, I will probably save book two for a while, because it never hurts to have something to look forward to.
Oh, and I really, really liked the narrator!
I could have binged at least 10 books, simply to spend time with him. Good stuff! 👌🏻✨
The author managed to spin a weird and wonderful story as if it could (sort of) be true - and I found it delightfully exciting and intriguing.
Gillan's background as an archaeologist was interesting and brought a fresh sort of perspective and academic touch to the investigation.
I really appreciated that in a way that I suspect you maybe only do if you (with an academic background) have spent time with other academics. There is a certain kind of different outlook on information and how problems are approached, compared to people in general that haven't done the whole "higher education dance", and all that jazz.
Done right - rather than in an obnoxious way and/or with superiority complex - an academic element often "ups the smarts", in my (not so humble) opinion.
I really like smart books. They are the reason why I keep picking new books all the time, even when I hit a lot of duds, rather than go back to stories I already know and like. Because when those clever stories with a new sort of spark show up they totally make my day.
So yeah! This book made me very happy.
The only things I found a bit iffy (as in: frankly a bit too weird) was the idea of metamorphosis of an entire horse (within hours!!!) - and the biker guy.
Like who the heck was the biker? I felt like I was missing some part of the puzzle by not being well versed in Scottish myths and lore, but what do I know!? (Answer: Nothing!)
I wish I could binge plenty of books in this series, but it seems like only number one and two have been turned into audiobooks, so far. I will have to be patient and hope more of them show up.
For now, I will probably save book two for a while, because it never hurts to have something to look forward to.
Oh, and I really, really liked the narrator!
I could have binged at least 10 books, simply to spend time with him. Good stuff! 👌🏻✨
November 10, 2022
A curiously entertaining story shrouded in mystery, paranormal activity, and murder. With the prospect of a career upgrade disappearing because of a past infraction, Gill had no choice but to forge ahead with a new low-paying job prospect. When his investigations unearthed dark sinister works hidden under a cloak of mythical lure, he soon realized his life was at stake.
October 22, 2022
The Bone Trap is the first of three books in the Mysterious Scotland Series, the next is the Ness Deception and the last is The Stone Cypher. The Bone Trap takes the reader on quite the voyage.
"Isle of Harris, nine months ago"
"Callum McKellar isn't missing anymore. He's not injured, lost, or confused. He's dead. Someone or something, has ripped a hole in his back and snatched out his life. And now, staring at his broken body, sprawled in the heather, Ailsa knows she'll carry the burden of this memory for the rest of her life."
Thus starts the first chapter, which had me intrigued from there. The story takes place in the upper reaches of Scotland on the Hebridian island of Harris.. Very remote and steeped in local folklore. Gillan McCardle is an archaeologist who has been disgraced due to a simple mistake he made while working at the college.
Gill is approached by a man who has a media company that has various magazines. One of them is a mystery magazine. There are some unusual bones, that looks like a horse skull but had a spot on the forehead that had a horn. A unicorn? Maybe maybe not. He does a further investigation into an old smelter.
He finds that there are experiments going on, this after a harrowing way he has to enter the area. He finds that there are horses of varying degrees of abuse. He is further intrigued and enlists the assistance of Aisla, an elderly woman with the 'Sight" and the assistance of a woman, Rani, who is a research scientist and is appalled at the way the horses are treated.
With Rani's assistance, he learns more about what is going on. The scientists are able to isolate the DNA that would enable the horse under certain conditions, to evolve into a totally different creature. This becomes dangerous after there is a fire at the smelter and the employees escape. They do come back wanting what they think belongs to them.
With the permission of the landowner, he is able with the help of an archaeologist team to dig to see if they can find the bones of the mythical creatures that they sure had existed. Genetics have been manipulated. What they find is truly amazing and worth the effort of the dig. But they are not safe as there are people who do not want the findings known.
This story borders on fantasy, is it possible for there to be actual unicorns or waterhorses as they were called in this book. Danger abounds for all of the characters involved. Once I got into the story I really enjoyed it. Lots of believable characters and side stories, the sight of course is interesting in itself. There is danger and excitement throughout the book, I finished the book in record time.
I think if you enjoy a story that is of the mystical sort, of course, takes place in Scotland, then you can't go wrong with this novel. I look forward to reading the other two in the series, especially the second one, The Ness Deception. anything having to do with the Loch Ness monster has me giddy!
I rate it 5 stars.
"Isle of Harris, nine months ago"
"Callum McKellar isn't missing anymore. He's not injured, lost, or confused. He's dead. Someone or something, has ripped a hole in his back and snatched out his life. And now, staring at his broken body, sprawled in the heather, Ailsa knows she'll carry the burden of this memory for the rest of her life."
Thus starts the first chapter, which had me intrigued from there. The story takes place in the upper reaches of Scotland on the Hebridian island of Harris.. Very remote and steeped in local folklore. Gillan McCardle is an archaeologist who has been disgraced due to a simple mistake he made while working at the college.
Gill is approached by a man who has a media company that has various magazines. One of them is a mystery magazine. There are some unusual bones, that looks like a horse skull but had a spot on the forehead that had a horn. A unicorn? Maybe maybe not. He does a further investigation into an old smelter.
He finds that there are experiments going on, this after a harrowing way he has to enter the area. He finds that there are horses of varying degrees of abuse. He is further intrigued and enlists the assistance of Aisla, an elderly woman with the 'Sight" and the assistance of a woman, Rani, who is a research scientist and is appalled at the way the horses are treated.
With Rani's assistance, he learns more about what is going on. The scientists are able to isolate the DNA that would enable the horse under certain conditions, to evolve into a totally different creature. This becomes dangerous after there is a fire at the smelter and the employees escape. They do come back wanting what they think belongs to them.
With the permission of the landowner, he is able with the help of an archaeologist team to dig to see if they can find the bones of the mythical creatures that they sure had existed. Genetics have been manipulated. What they find is truly amazing and worth the effort of the dig. But they are not safe as there are people who do not want the findings known.
This story borders on fantasy, is it possible for there to be actual unicorns or waterhorses as they were called in this book. Danger abounds for all of the characters involved. Once I got into the story I really enjoyed it. Lots of believable characters and side stories, the sight of course is interesting in itself. There is danger and excitement throughout the book, I finished the book in record time.
I think if you enjoy a story that is of the mystical sort, of course, takes place in Scotland, then you can't go wrong with this novel. I look forward to reading the other two in the series, especially the second one, The Ness Deception. anything having to do with the Loch Ness monster has me giddy!
I rate it 5 stars.
March 19, 2025
This book is fairly well written, and the first third of so is definitely engaging (for me, anyway), but I think that the author could use a different editor, especially when it comes to the last third or so.
To go into a bit more detail (without spoilers):
I found the concept interesting, and started reading the book and was enjoying it. The first third in particular kept me very engaged. Then the second third just... lost me a bit, I guess. There is some action that occurs, but it doesn't flow with the rest of the writing, and is a bit jumpy.
At that point, the book could really have ended... except that there are another hundred pages. I have no doubt that these serve an important purpose in the author's mind and intentions, but it really reads like the story was done, and we're still there.
I think that a good editor could have probably incorporated all of what the author wanted into about 2/3 of the length, and made for a more solid reading experience in the process.
Additionally, there are some characters and events that are there to set up for future books, and they just don't fit in well here. They feel like quite an add-on, and in some cases are very cheesy (my opinion). Again, I think an editor could have helped integrate them more subtly.
Speaking of characters, they are somewhat flat. They could have used more depth and less of a feel of being just a one-note person. This extends to the two free novellas that the author is kind enough to provide through his mailing list (though I wouldn't call two short stories that are, respectively, under 20 and under 30 pages, "novellas"; I call them "short stories" and I think that the main book could have been condensed to something closer to a novella). In "The Publisher's Meeting", we are introduced to a character who, apparently, will be important in later books, though she comes across as an extreme cliche, the tv show version of the executive assistant who somehow knows business and marketing and eight other things better than anyone else in the office, for... no reason. The Night Watch, the second short story, is very forgettable, with a decent bit of set-up that just doesn't pay off in the sudden and all-to-convenient conclusion, again with flat, cliche characters.
I think an editor could help with a lot of this (not just the typos, and not just with a lot of awkward sentences in The Bone Trap, but also a developmental editor), as well as smaller jarring things like having the whole book be in the past tense, except for one character who is usually, but not always, written in the present tense, for no apparent reason.
I suspect the author improves as the books go, but I do not currently feel inclined for spend money on the next one.
Again, I have definitely shared some gripes with the book, but it is, overall, decently written and did keep me reading throughout. I simply think that, with the right editor, an ok book could have been a very good book.
To go into a bit more detail (without spoilers):
I found the concept interesting, and started reading the book and was enjoying it. The first third in particular kept me very engaged. Then the second third just... lost me a bit, I guess. There is some action that occurs, but it doesn't flow with the rest of the writing, and is a bit jumpy.
At that point, the book could really have ended... except that there are another hundred pages. I have no doubt that these serve an important purpose in the author's mind and intentions, but it really reads like the story was done, and we're still there.
I think that a good editor could have probably incorporated all of what the author wanted into about 2/3 of the length, and made for a more solid reading experience in the process.
Additionally, there are some characters and events that are there to set up for future books, and they just don't fit in well here. They feel like quite an add-on, and in some cases are very cheesy (my opinion). Again, I think an editor could have helped integrate them more subtly.
Speaking of characters, they are somewhat flat. They could have used more depth and less of a feel of being just a one-note person. This extends to the two free novellas that the author is kind enough to provide through his mailing list (though I wouldn't call two short stories that are, respectively, under 20 and under 30 pages, "novellas"; I call them "short stories" and I think that the main book could have been condensed to something closer to a novella). In "The Publisher's Meeting", we are introduced to a character who, apparently, will be important in later books, though she comes across as an extreme cliche, the tv show version of the executive assistant who somehow knows business and marketing and eight other things better than anyone else in the office, for... no reason. The Night Watch, the second short story, is very forgettable, with a decent bit of set-up that just doesn't pay off in the sudden and all-to-convenient conclusion, again with flat, cliche characters.
I think an editor could help with a lot of this (not just the typos, and not just with a lot of awkward sentences in The Bone Trap, but also a developmental editor), as well as smaller jarring things like having the whole book be in the past tense, except for one character who is usually, but not always, written in the present tense, for no apparent reason.
I suspect the author improves as the books go, but I do not currently feel inclined for spend money on the next one.
Again, I have definitely shared some gripes with the book, but it is, overall, decently written and did keep me reading throughout. I simply think that, with the right editor, an ok book could have been a very good book.
August 14, 2022
I adore thrillers, mystery, folklore and also Scotland, especially the West Coast and so this ticked so many boxes. I was given the opportunity to read this for an honest review and I couldn't put it down.
If you believe in folklore or not, you can't deny this is a page turner and a half. The story of an archaeologist and an unsolved murder in the Hebrides.
For anyone who has been to Harris, Lewis, Skye or any of the islands you will know how magical they are. From the landscape, the people and the way of life. It's different from the mainland. Time stands still. It is truly magical
This story brings that magic to life. I love the characters, love the tale. I can't wait for the next one! This is an author who I'm going to follow!
A huge thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for allowing me to read the book.
If you believe in folklore or not, you can't deny this is a page turner and a half. The story of an archaeologist and an unsolved murder in the Hebrides.
For anyone who has been to Harris, Lewis, Skye or any of the islands you will know how magical they are. From the landscape, the people and the way of life. It's different from the mainland. Time stands still. It is truly magical
This story brings that magic to life. I love the characters, love the tale. I can't wait for the next one! This is an author who I'm going to follow!
A huge thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for allowing me to read the book.
September 17, 2023
This was a pleasant surprise! I enjoyed this far more than I thought I would. I'm planning to jump right in to the second book in the series.
August 28, 2024
I'm not sure how I would categorize this one or how to write about it.
There was a suspicious death a few years ago which the police have made little headway with. There is an old father who mourns and who wants to know what happened to his son. Then there is a photo of an old skull, like that of a horse but larger with what could have been a place for a single horn. So we could have a cold case murder story with hints of a unicorn skull to which, we add into the mix, a couple of islanders with the gift of second sight. Lets not forget a bit of supernateral too.
All this drops into the lap of disgraced archeaologist who is taken on as a new reporter for Mysterious Scotland, a periodical just prior to its opening edition.
There was so much here that said it wasn't my sort of read and I am not really sure why I picked this one rather that one of the dozens of hand chosen books on my shelf for next read.
I have to say, with not a little surprise, that I was glad I did. It was certainly different and in places even a little thought provoking. The story was well told and I had good clear puctures of the main characters and the Scottish landscape where it is set.
It has its exciting episodes and a few unanswered questions but all in all, I enjoyed it. I will add the next in the series to my shelf although as this seems to be about the Loch Ness monster it looks as if that book is moving from fiction to fact for, as we all know, that really does exist, doesn't it?
There was a suspicious death a few years ago which the police have made little headway with. There is an old father who mourns and who wants to know what happened to his son. Then there is a photo of an old skull, like that of a horse but larger with what could have been a place for a single horn. So we could have a cold case murder story with hints of a unicorn skull to which, we add into the mix, a couple of islanders with the gift of second sight. Lets not forget a bit of supernateral too.
All this drops into the lap of disgraced archeaologist who is taken on as a new reporter for Mysterious Scotland, a periodical just prior to its opening edition.
There was so much here that said it wasn't my sort of read and I am not really sure why I picked this one rather that one of the dozens of hand chosen books on my shelf for next read.
I have to say, with not a little surprise, that I was glad I did. It was certainly different and in places even a little thought provoking. The story was well told and I had good clear puctures of the main characters and the Scottish landscape where it is set.
It has its exciting episodes and a few unanswered questions but all in all, I enjoyed it. I will add the next in the series to my shelf although as this seems to be about the Loch Ness monster it looks as if that book is moving from fiction to fact for, as we all know, that really does exist, doesn't it?
July 28, 2024
4.5/5 stars
Disgraced archaeologist Gillan McArdle is desperate for work, so when his former mentor refers him to a magazine that wants some unusual bones verified, he jumps at the opportunity to check out the photos
The skull is like nothing he's seen before: equine, but with an omnivore's incisors. Pretty soon, Gill is on the Isle of Harris and Lewis to interview the man who sent the photos, Cormac. There, he finds that the skull also had a spiraled tusk, now detached. Cormac is sure they're all related to his son's murder, but can't get law enforcement to listen.
Gill's skeptical about all of it, but starts to nose around ... and pretty soon finds himself running afoul of the folk at a research lab that's set up business on the remote island..
This book is part thriller, part fair play puzzle, and part urban fantasy. I found myself thoroughly enjoying the characters who lived on the author's vision of the island, and look forward to reading more books in the series.
Disgraced archaeologist Gillan McArdle is desperate for work, so when his former mentor refers him to a magazine that wants some unusual bones verified, he jumps at the opportunity to check out the photos
The skull is like nothing he's seen before: equine, but with an omnivore's incisors. Pretty soon, Gill is on the Isle of Harris and Lewis to interview the man who sent the photos, Cormac. There, he finds that the skull also had a spiraled tusk, now detached. Cormac is sure they're all related to his son's murder, but can't get law enforcement to listen.
Gill's skeptical about all of it, but starts to nose around ... and pretty soon finds himself running afoul of the folk at a research lab that's set up business on the remote island..
This book is part thriller, part fair play puzzle, and part urban fantasy. I found myself thoroughly enjoying the characters who lived on the author's vision of the island, and look forward to reading more books in the series.
February 27, 2025
Archaeological mystery in Scotland
I was so looking forward to reading this book when I first saw the ads a while back. It did not disappoint. Excellent build to the dramatic climax, and still just a hint of the unexplained or supernatural. I definitely want to read more of this series.
I was so looking forward to reading this book when I first saw the ads a while back. It did not disappoint. Excellent build to the dramatic climax, and still just a hint of the unexplained or supernatural. I definitely want to read more of this series.
April 2, 2025
Fast paced great mix of science and folklore! Totally enjoyed it
June 24, 2025
This is the first in a series I cannot wait to finish!
July 8, 2024
An interesting story requiring a certain suspension of disbelief. I kept reading so Cockburn clearly knows how to engage readers' attention.
I know Harris very well so the setting was what persuaded me to pick up the novel, and he does a decent job describing the island's stunning landscape.
The book is more plot driven than character led and I never felt particularly invested in any of them.
I am intrigued by the mythological and historical background: linking together Pictish beasts, water horses and unicorns is definitely the best aspect of the book.
Cockburn has done his research and puts his story together competently however it lacks that spark to make it something out of the ordinary so I'm undecided whether to continue with the series. I'm fine with the supernatural and second sight, very much part of the Celtic Twilight, but its religious turn put me right off.
I know Harris very well so the setting was what persuaded me to pick up the novel, and he does a decent job describing the island's stunning landscape.
The book is more plot driven than character led and I never felt particularly invested in any of them.
I am intrigued by the mythological and historical background: linking together Pictish beasts, water horses and unicorns is definitely the best aspect of the book.
Cockburn has done his research and puts his story together competently however it lacks that spark to make it something out of the ordinary so I'm undecided whether to continue with the series. I'm fine with the supernatural and second sight, very much part of the Celtic Twilight, but its religious turn put me right off.
July 7, 2024
Beautiful, well-built mystery.
This book takes a topic as battered and unbelievable as cryptozoology and turns it on its head. At first you reckon you're merely reading a book about a disgraced scientist and some other peeps finding the mythical unicorn from Scottish fame and indeed you are but the story turns into so much more. It combines the myths of the past, and the magic of the Scottish Glens with the greed of the present, the brutality of the human heart and the mystery of genetics. It truly is the perfect blend of magic and science. It takes actual mysteries from Scottish lore and attempts to explain them in what is possibly one of the most creative ways I've seen. I am left wanting more.
This book takes a topic as battered and unbelievable as cryptozoology and turns it on its head. At first you reckon you're merely reading a book about a disgraced scientist and some other peeps finding the mythical unicorn from Scottish fame and indeed you are but the story turns into so much more. It combines the myths of the past, and the magic of the Scottish Glens with the greed of the present, the brutality of the human heart and the mystery of genetics. It truly is the perfect blend of magic and science. It takes actual mysteries from Scottish lore and attempts to explain them in what is possibly one of the most creative ways I've seen. I am left wanting more.
April 29, 2023
Decent story, mediocre writing
The central idea is interesting and new and well enough thought through that it requires only moderate amounts of suspension of disbelief. The story around it is entertaining enough, although at times a bit predictable and maybe not as watertight as it could be.
Unfortunately all of that is held back by the writing itself. At times the wording, especially during descriptions of people's behaviour or gestures, was so awkward that it pulled me out of the story. Landscape descriptions and dialogues are fine, but anything that involves movement or action is just not good.
The central idea is interesting and new and well enough thought through that it requires only moderate amounts of suspension of disbelief. The story around it is entertaining enough, although at times a bit predictable and maybe not as watertight as it could be.
Unfortunately all of that is held back by the writing itself. At times the wording, especially during descriptions of people's behaviour or gestures, was so awkward that it pulled me out of the story. Landscape descriptions and dialogues are fine, but anything that involves movement or action is just not good.
January 20, 2024
Slow paced but not as you think it is
This was a slow paced book with questions left at the end. But the friendships formed and the hint of myths make up for it. A discredited professor, an illegitimate college student, a mysterious warrior biker, and evil scientists. Lets toss in a Pictish myth or two and the gift of second sight. It makes me want to move there, but not take long walks on the moors without an armoured car nearby.
This was a slow paced book with questions left at the end. But the friendships formed and the hint of myths make up for it. A discredited professor, an illegitimate college student, a mysterious warrior biker, and evil scientists. Lets toss in a Pictish myth or two and the gift of second sight. It makes me want to move there, but not take long walks on the moors without an armoured car nearby.
December 15, 2023
Extremely disappointed in this book. I’d read a brilliant review and tried desperately hard to find it online.
It requires wilful suspension of disbelief which I found difficult and the whole premise of the story is very fairytale–ish. I’ve been looking for a new series to immerse myself in but sadly this won’t be it.
It requires wilful suspension of disbelief which I found difficult and the whole premise of the story is very fairytale–ish. I’ve been looking for a new series to immerse myself in but sadly this won’t be it.
August 3, 2024
*spoilers*
Plot ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
A disgraced academic working in the field of archaeology, facing the ending of his career, is granted a somewhat unorthodox opportunity by his university - the chance to follow a lead for Mysterious Scotland, a new magazine publication, and identify some unusual equine bones which have appeared on Scotland’s western isles. Expecting a fruitless swan song, Gillan McCardle’s investigation leads him on the adventure of a lifetime to unravel the origin and conspiracy surrounding the creature. Is it the fabled unicorn, or is it something much darker?
Overall, this story is a fun exploration of the fine line between unexplained science and folklore, of myth and reality. As an avid admirer of unicorns, I really appreciated how the author framed its existence in a way that was both rare and mysterious yet perfectly plausible. Now, if we can only locate that dig site…
Characters ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
A strong protagonist, supported by a varied ensemble of memorable allies and enemies, each with their own unique perspective and ability, gives this story satisfying depth. Interactions feel authentic to their character’s background, personality and motives, and the development of these throughout the story in response to unfolding events helps make these complex relationships even more relatable.
Despite being well-written, some character traits could be considered stereotypical or require a slight suspension of disbelief (how was an academic so good at infiltration and corporate espionage!?). Although this did not detract too much from the story, I have knocked a star off to be fair.
Setting ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Scottish scenery is breathtaking at the best of times, but the author really managed to capture the beauty and mystery across the country in his writing. From the quaint island village to the rolling moors, it was easy to visualise the environment and I felt completely transported there when reading.
Writing ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
The author struck a brilliant line between scientific explanation and entertaining reading. Key concepts were explained well and easy to follow, descriptions beautifully written, and the atmospheric storytelling helped to maintain immersion.
I felt this book acknowledged that readers are capable of understanding complex narratives in a field they may not be familiar with and just ran with it to a successful conclusion. I now have a somewhat working understanding of the archaeological process which is learning I didn’t anticipate but am grateful for nonetheless.
Readability ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Pure dopamine for all the reasons listed above, however, pacing dipped at times in the early and mid book before the action really kicked off. This might be off putting to some readers but persevere and you may be pleasantly surprised!
Overall Enjoyment = ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Absolutely amazing! This series has instantly become a favourite and I can’t wait to continue with the next book.
Favourite quotes:
- ‘The thing about the Highlands, Gill. It’s always been a thin place. By that, I mean the distance between what’s perceived as real and what’s believed to be some kind of magic is so narrow the two worlds almost touch. I frequently find myself knowing things I can’t naturally know.’
- The jagged mountains rising out of the murk gave it a faintly prehistoric air. To pass a little time in airy contemplation, he remembered a story about a recent fossil discovery and tried to imagine Skye with pterosaurs riding the thermals over deep valleys.
- ‘Is this the “Sight” speaking, divine inspiration, or good old female intuition?’
Plot ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
A disgraced academic working in the field of archaeology, facing the ending of his career, is granted a somewhat unorthodox opportunity by his university - the chance to follow a lead for Mysterious Scotland, a new magazine publication, and identify some unusual equine bones which have appeared on Scotland’s western isles. Expecting a fruitless swan song, Gillan McCardle’s investigation leads him on the adventure of a lifetime to unravel the origin and conspiracy surrounding the creature. Is it the fabled unicorn, or is it something much darker?
Overall, this story is a fun exploration of the fine line between unexplained science and folklore, of myth and reality. As an avid admirer of unicorns, I really appreciated how the author framed its existence in a way that was both rare and mysterious yet perfectly plausible. Now, if we can only locate that dig site…
Characters ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
A strong protagonist, supported by a varied ensemble of memorable allies and enemies, each with their own unique perspective and ability, gives this story satisfying depth. Interactions feel authentic to their character’s background, personality and motives, and the development of these throughout the story in response to unfolding events helps make these complex relationships even more relatable.
Despite being well-written, some character traits could be considered stereotypical or require a slight suspension of disbelief (how was an academic so good at infiltration and corporate espionage!?). Although this did not detract too much from the story, I have knocked a star off to be fair.
Setting ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Scottish scenery is breathtaking at the best of times, but the author really managed to capture the beauty and mystery across the country in his writing. From the quaint island village to the rolling moors, it was easy to visualise the environment and I felt completely transported there when reading.
Writing ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
The author struck a brilliant line between scientific explanation and entertaining reading. Key concepts were explained well and easy to follow, descriptions beautifully written, and the atmospheric storytelling helped to maintain immersion.
I felt this book acknowledged that readers are capable of understanding complex narratives in a field they may not be familiar with and just ran with it to a successful conclusion. I now have a somewhat working understanding of the archaeological process which is learning I didn’t anticipate but am grateful for nonetheless.
Readability ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Pure dopamine for all the reasons listed above, however, pacing dipped at times in the early and mid book before the action really kicked off. This might be off putting to some readers but persevere and you may be pleasantly surprised!
Overall Enjoyment = ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Absolutely amazing! This series has instantly become a favourite and I can’t wait to continue with the next book.
Favourite quotes:
- ‘The thing about the Highlands, Gill. It’s always been a thin place. By that, I mean the distance between what’s perceived as real and what’s believed to be some kind of magic is so narrow the two worlds almost touch. I frequently find myself knowing things I can’t naturally know.’
- The jagged mountains rising out of the murk gave it a faintly prehistoric air. To pass a little time in airy contemplation, he remembered a story about a recent fossil discovery and tried to imagine Skye with pterosaurs riding the thermals over deep valleys.
- ‘Is this the “Sight” speaking, divine inspiration, or good old female intuition?’
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2024
From a fun read/entertainment standpoint:
I enjoyed this one quite a bit! A little but Country, a little bit Rock & Roll (archeology pun). A little bit Science, a little bit Fantastical Foal.
It was a good story with an intriguing premise. The protagonist is kind of adorably awkward, which makes him more human. He also makes some very very stupid mistakes, though, especially as an archeologist where documentation is *everything*, as is backing up that information. I also really enjoyed what I *hope* is the creation of a pretty fantastic team of individuals that would make the perfect Cryptozoological Mystery Hunters.
From a science standpoint:
The Pictish Beast is a creature that really does show up on many stone carvings of the early early AD age, and based on how realistic other stone etching of the time period depicting animals still alive today - horses, oxen, deer, etc - were similarly realistic, it may indeed have been a real creature once. However, I suspect - if it did exist - it fell in among the mammalian water creatures, NOT as a unicorn. Whales and dolphins were both quadraped land creatures some 100 million years ago, but they spent so much time in the water they eventually evolved fins instead of feet - an evolutionarily road we can see in the works right now with the sea lions and walruses of today. Deep water is also one of the few remaining Earthly frontieres that, frankly, humans have truely not been able to explore very far, so it is easier to imagine a rare, recently extinct water creature falling below the rader (literally) for 2000 years because their skeletal remains just aren't accessible and/or haven't been located by humans because they are several hundred feet below the surface in very large, very deep, very dark waters.
Also, if some super secret government agency wants to reactivate dormant genes, they would be better off studying genetics and manipulating embryos of the extinct species' modern day Creature Cousins - NOT on fully formed adult. Embrionic chickens with teeth have already been created, either by accident or science, by turning on a dormant gene that survived from their dinosaur days. It's a super complicated process, granted, and so far none of the animals have survived to hatching, but its a more logical course than the one described in the novel. I am NOT a geneticist, mine, not even close. But I read a lot, and even my non-geneticist brain found Smelter Boy's methodology rather far fetched.
I enjoyed this one quite a bit! A little but Country, a little bit Rock & Roll (archeology pun). A little bit Science, a little bit Fantastical Foal.
It was a good story with an intriguing premise. The protagonist is kind of adorably awkward, which makes him more human. He also makes some very very stupid mistakes, though, especially as an archeologist where documentation is *everything*, as is backing up that information. I also really enjoyed what I *hope* is the creation of a pretty fantastic team of individuals that would make the perfect Cryptozoological Mystery Hunters.
From a science standpoint:
The Pictish Beast is a creature that really does show up on many stone carvings of the early early AD age, and based on how realistic other stone etching of the time period depicting animals still alive today - horses, oxen, deer, etc - were similarly realistic, it may indeed have been a real creature once. However, I suspect - if it did exist - it fell in among the mammalian water creatures, NOT as a unicorn. Whales and dolphins were both quadraped land creatures some 100 million years ago, but they spent so much time in the water they eventually evolved fins instead of feet - an evolutionarily road we can see in the works right now with the sea lions and walruses of today. Deep water is also one of the few remaining Earthly frontieres that, frankly, humans have truely not been able to explore very far, so it is easier to imagine a rare, recently extinct water creature falling below the rader (literally) for 2000 years because their skeletal remains just aren't accessible and/or haven't been located by humans because they are several hundred feet below the surface in very large, very deep, very dark waters.
Also, if some super secret government agency wants to reactivate dormant genes, they would be better off studying genetics and manipulating embryos of the extinct species' modern day Creature Cousins - NOT on fully formed adult. Embrionic chickens with teeth have already been created, either by accident or science, by turning on a dormant gene that survived from their dinosaur days. It's a super complicated process, granted, and so far none of the animals have survived to hatching, but its a more logical course than the one described in the novel. I am NOT a geneticist, mine, not even close. But I read a lot, and even my non-geneticist brain found Smelter Boy's methodology rather far fetched.
September 4, 2022
🔬Good trip to a mysterious island of possibilities🦄!
4-4.5🌟 stars
I was drawn to this book by its Scottish island setting and found a tale steeped in local folklore and a mystical atmosphere that definitely suited the remote and sparsely populated Hebridean location. The mixture of science-bound academia with the other wordly Second Sight of some of the island characters made for a good, suspenseful story.
I really liked the plot and range of characters. There were a few spots where the story bogged down in dreary detail, particularly the step-by-excruciating-step journey of the main character through the bowels of a smelting plant and some of the philosophical conversations. But in the main the book is action-adventure oriented, has twists and thrills, and tests the bounds of belief in sights unseen and potential discoveries about our Earth's past. The fight between Good and Evil looms over the whole, all dragged to light after the tragic and unresolved death of a young island man.
I ended up enjoying the story more than I had anticipated and would definitely be interested in reading more along this mystery line from author Tormod Cockburn. He's delved into the mythical, superstitious psyche associated with Scottish legend and come up with an excellent framework for a series.
Thanks to the author, Myst.Scot Media, BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
4-4.5🌟 stars
I was drawn to this book by its Scottish island setting and found a tale steeped in local folklore and a mystical atmosphere that definitely suited the remote and sparsely populated Hebridean location. The mixture of science-bound academia with the other wordly Second Sight of some of the island characters made for a good, suspenseful story.
I really liked the plot and range of characters. There were a few spots where the story bogged down in dreary detail, particularly the step-by-excruciating-step journey of the main character through the bowels of a smelting plant and some of the philosophical conversations. But in the main the book is action-adventure oriented, has twists and thrills, and tests the bounds of belief in sights unseen and potential discoveries about our Earth's past. The fight between Good and Evil looms over the whole, all dragged to light after the tragic and unresolved death of a young island man.
I ended up enjoying the story more than I had anticipated and would definitely be interested in reading more along this mystery line from author Tormod Cockburn. He's delved into the mythical, superstitious psyche associated with Scottish legend and come up with an excellent framework for a series.
Thanks to the author, Myst.Scot Media, BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
October 4, 2023
393 pages
5 stars
I have read some of the later Gillan “Gill” McAdrdle novels and didn’t realize that I had missed this one.
Mr. Cockburn is a very fine author. I love his novels. In this installment in the series Gill posits the existence of the mythological waterbeast. Several photos of cave drawings were inscribed by the early Picts. Apparently their drawings of animals were startlingly accurate. Does this mean they really existed?
Gill is a disgraced archeologist without work. More or less kicked out of his university, he learns of an unusual find on the Hebridean island of Harris. With limited funding from a new start-up magazine, he heads off to Harris to investigate.
He meets an elderly man who created the find. Yes, it turns out to be a fake, but more importantly, the skull of the animal itself is something Gill has never seen.
So begins an exciting and intricate story about the existence of the Scottish “Waterbeast.” This is an extremely well-written and researched story. We get a glimpse of life on Harris, the people and homes. The scenery is vast and wonderful. I could imagine myself there. I would dearly love to visit Scotland. I have had a fascination with it for years. Mr. Cockburn’s only make my wish to visit stronger.
I will certainly finish this series; two books to go (including the new one), and whatever else he writes !!
5 stars
I have read some of the later Gillan “Gill” McAdrdle novels and didn’t realize that I had missed this one.
Mr. Cockburn is a very fine author. I love his novels. In this installment in the series Gill posits the existence of the mythological waterbeast. Several photos of cave drawings were inscribed by the early Picts. Apparently their drawings of animals were startlingly accurate. Does this mean they really existed?
Gill is a disgraced archeologist without work. More or less kicked out of his university, he learns of an unusual find on the Hebridean island of Harris. With limited funding from a new start-up magazine, he heads off to Harris to investigate.
He meets an elderly man who created the find. Yes, it turns out to be a fake, but more importantly, the skull of the animal itself is something Gill has never seen.
So begins an exciting and intricate story about the existence of the Scottish “Waterbeast.” This is an extremely well-written and researched story. We get a glimpse of life on Harris, the people and homes. The scenery is vast and wonderful. I could imagine myself there. I would dearly love to visit Scotland. I have had a fascination with it for years. Mr. Cockburn’s only make my wish to visit stronger.
I will certainly finish this series; two books to go (including the new one), and whatever else he writes !!
August 31, 2022
Gillan McArdle's academic career has stalled due to misjudgement. He is a talented archaeologist but is struggling to find a job. When a publication asks him to investigate something he has nothing to lose. The reports of a skull with a single horn coming from its brow sounds like a fake but the publication offers him a short term contract & beggars can't be choosers & Gill sets off for Harris. Although it seems the skull is indeed a fake, there is definitely something unusual about it. There are rumours of unusual sightings of a beast on the moors & some very strange goings on- why does a disused smelting plant require such a high security presence? Along with the finder of the skull, a young lady with the second sight, Gill tries to get to the bottom of the mystery.
I absolutely loved this book! The descriptions of the beautiful Isle of Harris, the folklore of the Picts & the terrific characters made this book totally gripping. I really hope this is the start of a series. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
I absolutely loved this book! The descriptions of the beautiful Isle of Harris, the folklore of the Picts & the terrific characters made this book totally gripping. I really hope this is the start of a series. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
September 2, 2022
Magical Beasts and where to find them…
This is a story in which reality, fantasy, folklore, myth and 'a proper story' are intertwined; at the same time, the reader is treated to interesting tidbits about this part of Scotland. I strongly got the feeling the author wants to evoke a sense of escapism, and share his love for 'his' Bonnie Scotland, land of dragons, gryphons, and kelpies.
I found the story a bit unbalanced, the first part emphasizing largely on the myth, and the 'old ways.' The second part is part mystery, part thriller. Personally, I would have liked if the story was kept deliberately vague, emphasizing more on the myths and legends.
I have been to many of the Scottish Isles, and also to Lewis with Harris - this book was the perfect way to transport me back again. And for those who think there are no unicorns in Scotland, those people have never been to Bonnie scotland, because there really are!
I would like to thank Netgalley and the author for providing this arc. This opinion is my own.
3,5 stars, rounded up to 4.
This is a story in which reality, fantasy, folklore, myth and 'a proper story' are intertwined; at the same time, the reader is treated to interesting tidbits about this part of Scotland. I strongly got the feeling the author wants to evoke a sense of escapism, and share his love for 'his' Bonnie Scotland, land of dragons, gryphons, and kelpies.
I found the story a bit unbalanced, the first part emphasizing largely on the myth, and the 'old ways.' The second part is part mystery, part thriller. Personally, I would have liked if the story was kept deliberately vague, emphasizing more on the myths and legends.
I have been to many of the Scottish Isles, and also to Lewis with Harris - this book was the perfect way to transport me back again. And for those who think there are no unicorns in Scotland, those people have never been to Bonnie scotland, because there really are!
I would like to thank Netgalley and the author for providing this arc. This opinion is my own.
3,5 stars, rounded up to 4.
February 8, 2025
This novel is a thrilling blend of myth, science, and mystery set against the beautiful backdrop of the Scottish Hebrides.
Archaeologist Gillan McArdle, disgraced and desperate for redemption, stumbles upon a bizarre discovery, a supposed unicorn skull.
Skeptical, he soon finds himself entangled in a deeper mystery involving folklore, genetic experiments, and a creature that may be far more dangerous than legend suggests.
The writing is immersive, painting Scotland’s rugged landscapes with vivid detail.
Masterful handling of the mix of scientific intrigue and folklore creates a suspenseful atmosphere that keeps the reader hooked.
The slow unravelling of the mystery, combined with real archaeological and historical elements, makes the novel both intelligent and thrilling.
If there’s a drawback, it’s that the pacing occasionally drags in the early chapters.
The Bone Trap is a gripping read for fans of supernatural thrillers, Scottish mythology, and intelligent, well-researched storytelling.
Archaeologist Gillan McArdle, disgraced and desperate for redemption, stumbles upon a bizarre discovery, a supposed unicorn skull.
Skeptical, he soon finds himself entangled in a deeper mystery involving folklore, genetic experiments, and a creature that may be far more dangerous than legend suggests.
The writing is immersive, painting Scotland’s rugged landscapes with vivid detail.
Masterful handling of the mix of scientific intrigue and folklore creates a suspenseful atmosphere that keeps the reader hooked.
The slow unravelling of the mystery, combined with real archaeological and historical elements, makes the novel both intelligent and thrilling.
If there’s a drawback, it’s that the pacing occasionally drags in the early chapters.
The Bone Trap is a gripping read for fans of supernatural thrillers, Scottish mythology, and intelligent, well-researched storytelling.
November 1, 2023
This was really an enjoyable book set in my favorite country, Scotland, and concerning the discovery of not only "unicorn" bones, but actual unicorns, or rather "waterhorses" on an island in the Hebrides. An archaeologist with a tarnished reputation (fudging data used in his doctoral thesis) is given an interim job to research the origin of some bones sent to a newly started magazine concerning mysteries found in Scotland. Gill arrives on a remote island and is quickly pulled into some weird happenings, including murder. He pursues his investigation, risking ridicule if it turns out to be a hoax, and then makes the find of the century. Lots of local color, good descriptions of the moody, wet and ancient landscape mixed with some local legend and myth made this an engaging read. This is a series and I am definitely getting more books in the series.
February 24, 2024
Something a little different
When I picked up this book I thought it was going to be a straightforward murder mystery set in Scotland. Well, it IS that, but it's a present-day fantasy too, as Gillan McArdle, soon-to-be-unemployed archaeologist, sets out for The Hebrides to investigate a story about a unicorn horn being found on Harris.
The author clearly knows his Scottish folklore, and weaves his own version with a scientific angle which brings the old legends into modern-day Scotland. I look forward to more of this series.
A word of warning to the reader, there is a rather distressing scene of animal cruelty, which is a theme here. It is carefully handled and is an intrinsic part of the story. I'd say, be prepared for it, but go ahead and read the book, and if you find it too upsetting, skip a few pages, but do read the book.
When I picked up this book I thought it was going to be a straightforward murder mystery set in Scotland. Well, it IS that, but it's a present-day fantasy too, as Gillan McArdle, soon-to-be-unemployed archaeologist, sets out for The Hebrides to investigate a story about a unicorn horn being found on Harris.
The author clearly knows his Scottish folklore, and weaves his own version with a scientific angle which brings the old legends into modern-day Scotland. I look forward to more of this series.
A word of warning to the reader, there is a rather distressing scene of animal cruelty, which is a theme here. It is carefully handled and is an intrinsic part of the story. I'd say, be prepared for it, but go ahead and read the book, and if you find it too upsetting, skip a few pages, but do read the book.
October 20, 2025
The idea behind this was very interesting and it reminded me of Jurassic Park. There was mystery but also... magical realism? But only sort of done well? A lot was trying to be accomplished, but none of it got accomplished WELL.
The characters were very flat; I can't say I have a favorite character, but neither do I dislike any of them. We also had random factoids thrown at us that were never heard of again, lessening the character development.
The writing is very clunky - the transitions were sloppy, there were several places that had unneeded commas. I was never really sure where we were going with the story, one minute we're going one direction, the next another, and it just wasn't very smooth.
The characters were very flat; I can't say I have a favorite character, but neither do I dislike any of them. We also had random factoids thrown at us that were never heard of again, lessening the character development.
The writing is very clunky - the transitions were sloppy, there were several places that had unneeded commas. I was never really sure where we were going with the story, one minute we're going one direction, the next another, and it just wasn't very smooth.
February 9, 2026
I loved this book. It was the perfect mix of fantasy and mystery. It starts with a washed up archeologist who starts working for a magazine who looks into the unexplained. He heads to an island in Scotland to look at what appears to be the skull of a unicorn. From there he is entangled in the investigation of a murder, a company testing on horses, and what appears to be the skull of a horse he is not familiar with. It kept me entertained through the whole book with very little lag in it. I will definitely be picking up more in this series of books and excited to read more of Mysterious Scotland!
I also want to add that I listened to this on audio book and the narrator was fabulous with his Scottish accent! If you get the chance listen to the audio book, it is definitely worth it.
I also want to add that I listened to this on audio book and the narrator was fabulous with his Scottish accent! If you get the chance listen to the audio book, it is definitely worth it.
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