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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 494 reviews
July 30, 2024
This is a quirky series that combines archaeology, science, crime, mythology and spirituality as elements in a rip roaring adventure story. It has a rather intense plot, involving creatures from Heaven and Hell, as they battle for supremacy through their human acolytes. A rather different kind of fantasy story, with its mixing together of various genres, but a series well worth persevering with.
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!
August 10, 2024
3.5 stars!
I'm not quite sure how to rate this particular instalment of the quirky Mysterious Scotland series. Overall, I enjoyed the story but it lacked the impetus of earlier books in the series. The story appeared to be going off at a tangent with a number of (apparently) unrelated sub plots but, they did all come together in the end. We had drug dealing gangsters branching out into the forged gold market, a mother searching for her abducted son and human trafficking plus, a bit of low level weirdness. It was an enjoyable tale but without the supernatural fireworks of the earlier instalments.
I'm not quite sure how to rate this particular instalment of the quirky Mysterious Scotland series. Overall, I enjoyed the story but it lacked the impetus of earlier books in the series. The story appeared to be going off at a tangent with a number of (apparently) unrelated sub plots but, they did all come together in the end. We had drug dealing gangsters branching out into the forged gold market, a mother searching for her abducted son and human trafficking plus, a bit of low level weirdness. It was an enjoyable tale but without the supernatural fireworks of the earlier instalments.
June 22, 2024
Spellbinding!
An academically dubious archaeologist changes career to act as editor of a magazine that investigates mysterious phenomenon. The magazine is very popular and tries its best to rigorously hypothesis archaeological mysteries. Our journalist/archaeologist is something of an "Indiana Jones" character with a supernatural 'guardian angel' looking out for him. The series combines well researched archaeological/theological/scientific theory with edge of seat thrills and spills. This episode had high tech research into teleportation alongside Neolithic archaeology and a smidgen of Orkney islanders' spiritual beliefs. Taken all together you have a rip roaring adventure that might just have an element of conceptual fact underpinning it. "The truth is out there"!
An academically dubious archaeologist changes career to act as editor of a magazine that investigates mysterious phenomenon. The magazine is very popular and tries its best to rigorously hypothesis archaeological mysteries. Our journalist/archaeologist is something of an "Indiana Jones" character with a supernatural 'guardian angel' looking out for him. The series combines well researched archaeological/theological/scientific theory with edge of seat thrills and spills. This episode had high tech research into teleportation alongside Neolithic archaeology and a smidgen of Orkney islanders' spiritual beliefs. Taken all together you have a rip roaring adventure that might just have an element of conceptual fact underpinning it. "The truth is out there"!
May 22, 2024
Well researched and well written!
I will admit to having doubts about this series, as I was unable to fully engage with the first instalment. However, I pressed ahead with Book 2 and really enjoyed the story. I still have doubts about Gill, our would-be 'Indiana Jones' character, but he is beginning to grow on me. The concept of an academically suspect archaeologist suddenly becoming the editor of an esoteric magazine, Mysterious Scotland, is still a bit far fetched to me. However, this story was full of thrills and spills as Nessie hunters, conspiracy theorists and murderous cryptozoologists all come together in an exciting geophysical adventure. Does the famous Loch Ness monster rear its ugly head? Read the story and find out - you won't be disappointed.
I will admit to having doubts about this series, as I was unable to fully engage with the first instalment. However, I pressed ahead with Book 2 and really enjoyed the story. I still have doubts about Gill, our would-be 'Indiana Jones' character, but he is beginning to grow on me. The concept of an academically suspect archaeologist suddenly becoming the editor of an esoteric magazine, Mysterious Scotland, is still a bit far fetched to me. However, this story was full of thrills and spills as Nessie hunters, conspiracy theorists and murderous cryptozoologists all come together in an exciting geophysical adventure. Does the famous Loch Ness monster rear its ugly head? Read the story and find out - you won't be disappointed.
August 18, 2024
Robin Hood meets Star Trek!
From archaeology, through cryptozoology, to time travel, and now we meet a teleporting Robin Hood like "ghost." Wow, this series has everything. The latest instalment sees our archaeologist/journalist hero, Gill Mcardle, embarking upon a ghost hunt. Strangely, he has no trouble accepting the existence of angels and demons but draws the line at ghosts. Possibly, this is due to the author's overriding plotline, a Christian allegory, based upon ancient Hebrew scriptures. Not being remotely religious myself, I still find the series most enjoyable and strangely thought-provoking.
From archaeology, through cryptozoology, to time travel, and now we meet a teleporting Robin Hood like "ghost." Wow, this series has everything. The latest instalment sees our archaeologist/journalist hero, Gill Mcardle, embarking upon a ghost hunt. Strangely, he has no trouble accepting the existence of angels and demons but draws the line at ghosts. Possibly, this is due to the author's overriding plotline, a Christian allegory, based upon ancient Hebrew scriptures. Not being remotely religious myself, I still find the series most enjoyable and strangely thought-provoking.
July 11, 2024
Between a rock and a hard place!
This was a well researched story but, the longer it went on, the more my interest began to wane. Unlike the majority of reviewers I should point out. This story drifted into the realms of spiritual mysticism, ultra Scottish nationalism and the machinations of Israel's Mossad security service - and all for a lump of rock. Is Scotland's fabled 'Stone of Destiny' a medieval fake? Why is the Israeli security service, in tandem with Scottish extremists, so keen to debunk our intrepid hero's latest find (also a lump of old rock) and smuggle it out of the country? I'm afraid I just failed to connect with this tale.
This was a well researched story but, the longer it went on, the more my interest began to wane. Unlike the majority of reviewers I should point out. This story drifted into the realms of spiritual mysticism, ultra Scottish nationalism and the machinations of Israel's Mossad security service - and all for a lump of rock. Is Scotland's fabled 'Stone of Destiny' a medieval fake? Why is the Israeli security service, in tandem with Scottish extremists, so keen to debunk our intrepid hero's latest find (also a lump of old rock) and smuggle it out of the country? I'm afraid I just failed to connect with this tale.
November 27, 2024
A solid 4 stars!
What a well written and exciting series 'Mysterious Scotland' is. This penultimate instalment has all the hallmarks of its predecessors; ancient mythology, folklore, archaeological detective work, plus a bit of political terrorism. These stories are all part of an overarching Christian allegory and to fully understand them you need to begin with Book 1 of the series. Otherwise the major allegorical references are quite indecipherable (in my personal opinion). Each episode is full of twists and turns with plenty of bangs for your bucks. Well recommended!
What a well written and exciting series 'Mysterious Scotland' is. This penultimate instalment has all the hallmarks of its predecessors; ancient mythology, folklore, archaeological detective work, plus a bit of political terrorism. These stories are all part of an overarching Christian allegory and to fully understand them you need to begin with Book 1 of the series. Otherwise the major allegorical references are quite indecipherable (in my personal opinion). Each episode is full of twists and turns with plenty of bangs for your bucks. Well recommended!
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 5, 2023
A Good Story
This was a good story but not as good as the previous ones. I still enjoyed Gill's latest adventure but something in here seemed to be lacking a bit? Maybe it was because there was a lot of politics mentioned and to be truthful I really don't care for politics.
This story was about a rock. A very famous rock apparently but being an American I have never heard of it before. While I did find the story interesting I also kind of feel the series is maybe getting away from what I had thought it would be about? The first book was about unicorns (waterhorse) and the second was about Nessie (the Lock Ness Monster) ... Which sort of makes you think its about creatures. Scottish creatures. And suddenly its about a rock..
I also thought the end was kind of weird. Like a letdown? You go through a lot of trouble and then... Well... I cannot say as it would ruin the story. But it was weird. I suppose its realistic though. I suppose the purpose is to point out what is exactly important. Like you have a choice. Between two things. And you have to choose one. Because you can't have both. And it can be a hard choice. I guess that is what the book is trying to say?
But I still found the end weird.
And the story, while interesting, was not all that exciting.
It certainly doesn't compare to the first book about the waterhorses.
The cover image doesn't match the story. The island in the story had rocky cliffs but no crooked peer like that. I don't think anyone builds a peer like that. Perhaps the cover should show a ragged rocky island with birds nesting and flying?.
One paragraph in here made me chuckle, which I appreciate.
This was a good story but not as good as the previous ones. I still enjoyed Gill's latest adventure but something in here seemed to be lacking a bit? Maybe it was because there was a lot of politics mentioned and to be truthful I really don't care for politics.
This story was about a rock. A very famous rock apparently but being an American I have never heard of it before. While I did find the story interesting I also kind of feel the series is maybe getting away from what I had thought it would be about? The first book was about unicorns (waterhorse) and the second was about Nessie (the Lock Ness Monster) ... Which sort of makes you think its about creatures. Scottish creatures. And suddenly its about a rock..
I also thought the end was kind of weird. Like a letdown? You go through a lot of trouble and then... Well... I cannot say as it would ruin the story. But it was weird. I suppose its realistic though. I suppose the purpose is to point out what is exactly important. Like you have a choice. Between two things. And you have to choose one. Because you can't have both. And it can be a hard choice. I guess that is what the book is trying to say?
But I still found the end weird.
And the story, while interesting, was not all that exciting.
It certainly doesn't compare to the first book about the waterhorses.
The cover image doesn't match the story. The island in the story had rocky cliffs but no crooked peer like that. I don't think anyone builds a peer like that. Perhaps the cover should show a ragged rocky island with birds nesting and flying?.
One paragraph in here made me chuckle, which I appreciate.
November 4, 2023
A Complex Mystery!!
This was a very well written and complex mystery. It also involves a lot of science just like the previous books in this series. I don't know how I did it but I read the entire book today. And this one definitely made me think about things. A few of the minor details in here from history were very shocking!
I did figure out a part of this one but my idea was nowhere near the entire truth when it got revealed at the end. Its a very good mystery. Lots of twists and turns.
I do feel Gill was in a tad less danger in this one but with how things ended I think he may be in even more danger come the next book!
So this story was about a group of standing stones (very similar to the famous Stonehenge except this one is in Scotland) and why it was built. It certainly puts forward a fascinating idea about how it could have come to be. But that was only part of the story. The other part is around this company doing research with ion beams. Until I read this I had no idea that ion beams were even real! But apparently ions were discovered in the 1960s! Anyway the two plotlines make a very exciting story.
I will not give away the story's secrets but its a fun adventure.
I like the cover image on this one.
This was a very well written and complex mystery. It also involves a lot of science just like the previous books in this series. I don't know how I did it but I read the entire book today. And this one definitely made me think about things. A few of the minor details in here from history were very shocking!
I did figure out a part of this one but my idea was nowhere near the entire truth when it got revealed at the end. Its a very good mystery. Lots of twists and turns.
I do feel Gill was in a tad less danger in this one but with how things ended I think he may be in even more danger come the next book!
So this story was about a group of standing stones (very similar to the famous Stonehenge except this one is in Scotland) and why it was built. It certainly puts forward a fascinating idea about how it could have come to be. But that was only part of the story. The other part is around this company doing research with ion beams. Until I read this I had no idea that ion beams were even real! But apparently ions were discovered in the 1960s! Anyway the two plotlines make a very exciting story.
I will not give away the story's secrets but its a fun adventure.
I like the cover image on this one.
June 20, 2024
The Road Between Good and Evil is a Rocky One
A ghost is haunting the lost settlement of Culbin, now a series of trees and sand dunes. The ghost robs from the evil rich and gives to the virtuous poor. In Gill McArdle's October edition of his magazine, MYSTERIOUS SCOTLAND, he and his staff are studying hauntings throughout Scotland. In Gill's studies, he comes upon this story that seems to have more substance than most.
Through scientific data, archeological digs, and actual sightings, he digs into this mystery and finds more than he was expecting.
This series of books by Scotsman Tormod Cockburn is more than a group of archeological mysteries, but a Christian allegory based on the scripture in Ephesians 6, that lists the Helmet of Salvation, the Shield of Faith, the Breastplate of Righteousness, the Belt of Truth, the Sword of The Spirit, and feet shod with the Gospel of Peace. In the series, a number of characters, including Gill, are endowed with these gifts to fight evil and the terrifying end of he earth. This is book seven with two more to go. The story is one that encourages Christians, and may intrigue others into looking into this. It's more than just an entertaining story! A good and thought-provoking read!
A ghost is haunting the lost settlement of Culbin, now a series of trees and sand dunes. The ghost robs from the evil rich and gives to the virtuous poor. In Gill McArdle's October edition of his magazine, MYSTERIOUS SCOTLAND, he and his staff are studying hauntings throughout Scotland. In Gill's studies, he comes upon this story that seems to have more substance than most.
Through scientific data, archeological digs, and actual sightings, he digs into this mystery and finds more than he was expecting.
This series of books by Scotsman Tormod Cockburn is more than a group of archeological mysteries, but a Christian allegory based on the scripture in Ephesians 6, that lists the Helmet of Salvation, the Shield of Faith, the Breastplate of Righteousness, the Belt of Truth, the Sword of The Spirit, and feet shod with the Gospel of Peace. In the series, a number of characters, including Gill, are endowed with these gifts to fight evil and the terrifying end of he earth. This is book seven with two more to go. The story is one that encourages Christians, and may intrigue others into looking into this. It's more than just an entertaining story! A good and thought-provoking read!
April 9, 2025
This is it, the 9th and final entry of the Mysterious Scotland series and Tormod Cockburn really stuck the landing. All of the various strings were tied up in a neat little bow.
It's been a helluva ride from the first book to this one and I would recommend this series to anyone. Whether your preference is fantasy, thrillers, mystery or action.
I'll not be going into any specifics about the content of this book but it goes out in the same flavor of the entire series and I look forward to whatever path Mr Cockburn decides to lead me.
It's been a helluva ride from the first book to this one and I would recommend this series to anyone. Whether your preference is fantasy, thrillers, mystery or action.
I'll not be going into any specifics about the content of this book but it goes out in the same flavor of the entire series and I look forward to whatever path Mr Cockburn decides to lead me.
December 7, 2025
This is the first book in Cockburn's new series. lt's a bit all over the place, involving multiple Scotlands on parallel worlds, one of which appears to be much like on this world while the other is on a war front.
l'm going to need to read the next one to get a better feel on the series.
l'm going to need to read the next one to get a better feel on the series.
June 3, 2024
More mysterious scotland
Gil and company are back and are hunting ghosts. Of course, there is more to it than meets the eye. There will be rabbit trails to follow, plot twists to baffle, and the joy of meeting old and new friends, adversaries, and members of the inner group. Once again there are weighty subjects to ponder. Is magic real? Is it just science that is not yet understood? What about supernatural forces? Prepare to have your thinking challenged.
Gil and company are back and are hunting ghosts. Of course, there is more to it than meets the eye. There will be rabbit trails to follow, plot twists to baffle, and the joy of meeting old and new friends, adversaries, and members of the inner group. Once again there are weighty subjects to ponder. Is magic real? Is it just science that is not yet understood? What about supernatural forces? Prepare to have your thinking challenged.
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.
May 23, 2023
We move out of cryptozoology and into the realms of ancient cultures and their stone circles, once again in the company of Gill as he investigates a mystery out-of-place stone artefact and rekindles an old friendship...only to be plunged into a very modern murder mystery indeed!
This novel rattles along at a cracking pace; you can tell the author is really hitting his stride now.
This novel rattles along at a cracking pace; you can tell the author is really hitting his stride now.
February 21, 2024
I have read all of Tormod's books in rapid succession. But This Emerald Veil is by far my most favorite. He just keeps getting better and better. If you want to stay up all night reading, I highly recommend Tormod's Mysterious Scotland series. I guarantee you will be pleasantly rewarded. I'm anxiously waiting for his next book release, Dark Sayings. Aloha from the Big Island.
September 21, 2023
My favourite part of Scotland! I have stayed at Drumnadrochit and been on the Loch...I would move up there if it weren't for the midges.
Loved this tale, Nessie is still kept alive and aurochs rule!
Loved this tale, Nessie is still kept alive and aurochs rule!
January 11, 2024
I really enjoy the cryptozoological stuff and revisiting places in Scotland.
Unfortunately, it appears the author has slipped into using ass instead of arse. No one I know in Scotland would use ass! It is a shame as it takes away the authenticity from the characters voices.
Unfortunately, it appears the author has slipped into using ass instead of arse. No one I know in Scotland would use ass! It is a shame as it takes away the authenticity from the characters voices.
May 8, 2023
As in the previous installments of Mysterious Scotland we the readers find ourselves digging deep into Scottish history.
I can't recommend this series highly enough.
I can't recommend this series highly enough.
January 21, 2026
I would call this speculative fiction. More than that, I would call it superb speculative fiction. There's another version of Scotland with a different history, and a very few people can cross between versions, and go back in history. The Shadow Castles of the title are appearing by thrusting up through the ground, demolishing anything in their way. Are they a weapon? An anomaly?
I loved this alternative world and many of the characters inhabiting it. I greatly appreciated that we found out what was going on gradually, as the story evolved, and not as a huge info-dump.
Wonderfull conceived and written and I look forward to Book 2.
I loved this alternative world and many of the characters inhabiting it. I greatly appreciated that we found out what was going on gradually, as the story evolved, and not as a huge info-dump.
Wonderfull conceived and written and I look forward to Book 2.
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.
November 3, 2023
A New Exciting Twist on the Lock Ness Monster!!
I read this whole book in less than 24 hours. I was very hooked on the story plus I appreciate that its a new way to look at the legends of Nessie. Simply put its a smart, very scientific look at what Nessie may actually be.
I was quite eager to start this second book about Gill. He is now firmly working for the magazine and chasing stories. And for unknown reasons he is not eager at all to go investigate the Lock Ness Monster. Even after his great success with the unicorn I guess Nessie is too much of a "maybe" for him. You know what I mean. People have all kind of theories of what Nessie actually is ranging from boat wakes to floating sticks. And this story looks at all of those. Plus a few others as well.
I must say throughout the story there were these odd little things in the plot that kept me reading. Strange occurrences. It was baffling!
And there were several plot points, different things going on and then later they all connect together flawlessly! Its amazing!
And as for the final answer about Nessie ? The story points to something I had never considered or heard about. But I think it makes sense!
The book contains lots of action, more mystical run-ins with that weird man and I sense there is some huge incident building that will reveal itself in a future book. What that will be I have no idea yet. But I am sure it will be exciting.
And yes, there was action and danger in here. Close calls. It most definitely is a thriller...
I definitely recommend this series!
Gill is a decent guy who works hard at his somewhat unusual job, running all over the place investigating weird stuff and digging up bones.
I am off to read book #3...
I read this whole book in less than 24 hours. I was very hooked on the story plus I appreciate that its a new way to look at the legends of Nessie. Simply put its a smart, very scientific look at what Nessie may actually be.
I was quite eager to start this second book about Gill. He is now firmly working for the magazine and chasing stories. And for unknown reasons he is not eager at all to go investigate the Lock Ness Monster. Even after his great success with the unicorn I guess Nessie is too much of a "maybe" for him. You know what I mean. People have all kind of theories of what Nessie actually is ranging from boat wakes to floating sticks. And this story looks at all of those. Plus a few others as well.
I must say throughout the story there were these odd little things in the plot that kept me reading. Strange occurrences. It was baffling!
And there were several plot points, different things going on and then later they all connect together flawlessly! Its amazing!
And as for the final answer about Nessie ? The story points to something I had never considered or heard about. But I think it makes sense!
The book contains lots of action, more mystical run-ins with that weird man and I sense there is some huge incident building that will reveal itself in a future book. What that will be I have no idea yet. But I am sure it will be exciting.
And yes, there was action and danger in here. Close calls. It most definitely is a thriller...
I definitely recommend this series!
Gill is a decent guy who works hard at his somewhat unusual job, running all over the place investigating weird stuff and digging up bones.
I am off to read book #3...
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 1, 2023
I need the next book ASAP lol
This story keeps growing in scope and depth. I'm not religious at all, rather the opposite, but the way this is unfolding is very interesting and draws me in. Gill is a great protagonist, he makes mistakes, follows his instincts, and genuinely seems like a sweet guy. The mysteries he sets out to solve may not end up as he would like them to, but that's part of the fun of this series. I'm hopeful we get more water horses in the future books.
This story keeps growing in scope and depth. I'm not religious at all, rather the opposite, but the way this is unfolding is very interesting and draws me in. Gill is a great protagonist, he makes mistakes, follows his instincts, and genuinely seems like a sweet guy. The mysteries he sets out to solve may not end up as he would like them to, but that's part of the fun of this series. I'm hopeful we get more water horses in the future books.
April 2, 2025
Excellent Series
This nine book series has been remarkable. A little tough to wade through some of the science jargon, but like any devoted reader, I was sure it would all come together in the end. This ninth and final book kept me page turning and ignoring regular chores to keep reading. To understand all the characters, twists, and turns, I recommend setting aside a few weeks to read through the series start to finish. It’s that good. Enjoy!
This nine book series has been remarkable. A little tough to wade through some of the science jargon, but like any devoted reader, I was sure it would all come together in the end. This ninth and final book kept me page turning and ignoring regular chores to keep reading. To understand all the characters, twists, and turns, I recommend setting aside a few weeks to read through the series start to finish. It’s that good. Enjoy!
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