A Twist Worth Waiting For.
- Tracey Holland
- 6 minutes ago
- 2 min read
BLURB
Shetland sailing sleuth Cass Lynch is definitely out of her comfort zone when she helps round up a prize-winning stallion escaped from the renowned Klaufister stud. She's even less impressed by its owner, Keith Arthurson, a returned city slicker who's already made enemies in his community.An unexpected visit to the Arthursons shows Cass the tensions simmering within the family. When Keith's found dead, can she uncover the motive for his murder without putting herself in danger?
AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY
Marsali Taylor grew up near Edinburgh, and came to Shetland as a newly-qualified teacher. She is currently a part-time teacher on Shetland’s scenic west side, living with her husband and two Shetland ponies. Marsali is a qualified STGA tourist-guide who is fascinated by history, and has published plays in Shetland’s distinctive dialect, as well as a history of women's suffrage in Shetland. She's also a keen sailor who enjoys exploring in her own 8m yacht, and an active member of her local drama group.
Death in a Shetland Family
is an atmospheric and absorbing mystery, full of vivid setting, strong characterisation and a wonderful sense of island life.
One of the things I enjoyed most was how real Shetland feels on the page. From the sea journey back from Bergen to Lerwick, with the cliffs of Noss appearing on the horizon, to the details of tides, ponies, crofts, boats, cats, hens and local roads, the story has a strong and believable sense of place. The author makes the reader feel as though they are right there in the landscape.
Cass is an engaging narrator. She is practical, observant and emotionally honest, especially when Gavin has to rush away after his mother’s stroke. That opening immediately gives the story heart as well as mystery. Her relationship with Gavin is warm and convincing, and the everyday details of caring for animals, managing boats and relying on friends make the characters feel like real people rather than just figures in a crime plot.
I also liked the way the mystery begins through ordinary events. The loose black Shetland pony on the road is exciting in itself, but it also plants questions. Why was the horse loose? Was it an accident, carelessness, or something more deliberate? This gives the book a clever, slow-building tension. Keith Arthurson’s arrival afterwards also works well, as he immediately feels suspicious and unpleasant without the writing becoming too obvious.
The animal details are another real strength. Cat, Kitten, Julie, Rat, the ponies, hens and sheep all add warmth and humour. They also make the setting feel lived-in and distinctive. The scenes with Rainbow explaining the animal care are especially enjoyable because they combine character, local knowledge and practical detail.
Overall, this is a rich, character-led mystery with a strong Shetland atmosphere, gentle humour and an intriguing plot. It is ideal for readers who enjoy crime fiction with a vivid setting, community secrets, animals, boats and a thoughtful central character.
HOW TO BUY
SOCIAL MEDIA LINK
Author Facebook Page -https://www.facebook.com/MarsaliTaylorAuthor/
Amazon Author Page - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Marsali-Taylor/e/B0034PACI8/
WEBSITE LINK
Website - https://www.marsalitaylor.co.uk
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