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theavidreaderandbibliophile's review
3.0
Death at a Scottish Wedding by Lucy Connelly has Dr. Emilia McRoy attending the wedding of her friend, Angie at Morrigan Castle. A man ends up dead in a turret in the middle of a blizzard. I liked the descriptions of the castle (perfect place for a murder especially with the turret and a storm raging outside). The mystery had an intriguing start. No one can leave the castle thanks to the blizzard. Emilia is also the local coroner and, between her and Ewan, they come up with enough supplies to conduct an autopsy. I can understand Emilia bringing her medical bag with her stocked with extra supplies (since everyone in the village seems to be attending the wedding), but I cannot imagine bringing the necessary instruments needed for an autopsy (it just seemed farfetched). Emilia and her friends discuss the case endlessly (I could have used a shot of whiskey to get through the endless theorizing). I was baffled at how no one seemed to remember anything of importance regarding the case (they seemed to be an unobservant group of people). The whodunit can easily be solved. The reveal was lackluster (it needed a little pizzaz aka action, drama, or suspense). Emilia seemed to feel that if she stated “I’m a doctor” or “I’m the coroner” that it justified her interference. Emilia, the steady and calm ER doctor, screamed at unexpected noises and movements (she needed a dram of whiskey to calm her nerves). Other ladies seem to scream frequently as well. The independent and strong women came across immature (I would rather brave the blizzard than deal with this bunch of nervous Nellie’s). The story had a slow pace and it especially dragged in the middle. I tired of Emilia going on and on about her wonderful group of friends (she has only known them for three months). She considers them her Sea Isle family. Death at a Scottish Wedding is the second A Scottish Isle Mystery. It can be read as a standalone for those new to the series. Unfortunately, this series is not for me.
bibliocatts's review
dark
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
cradlow's review
adventurous
funny
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
tessa5655's review
adventurous
funny
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
kimlb's review
4.0
While not as good as the first title in the series, I enjoyed this book. There were alot of characters to keep up with and once or twice the author used the wrong name so there was a little confusion but easily figured out.
bettyg's review
4.0
The second installment of the Sea Isle Mystery series, Death at a Scottish Wedding, centers around a murder at a three-day wedding celebration. The main character, Dr. Emilia McRoy is an American who relocated to Sea Isle Scotland, after the death of her husband to become the local doctor and coroner. During her short time there, Emilia created a new family and amazing friendships for herself, with Mara, Angie, and Abigail. Then there is her somewhat prickly relationship with the very wealthy Ewan Campbell who is the laird and constable of the small town.
This book takes place a few months after the first book. Emilia attends Angie’s wedding at Morrigan’s Castle, Ewan’s family home, along with the rest of the crew including Jasper and Abigail’s brother Tommy. Sadly, the wedding festivities become a murder scene, possible poisoning, and attacks on Emilia at the event. The victim is Angie’s ex-boyfriend who was not invited to the wedding. Adding more tension to the situation, the guests are snowed in by a blizzard and avalanche; so, no-one can come or go. Then Emilia, Ewan, and the gang jump into action to investigate and solve the murder.
This was a delightful story and I enjoyed learning about Scottish wedding traditions. The author keeps the suspense going right up until the end. I love the female relationships and strong bonds and I can’t wait to see what new adventure await Emilia and her friends. I do hope the next installment will delve more into the relationship between Emilia and Ewan much more. There is a sense that there could be more to their relationship. This was an excellent read and I would recommend reading the series in order.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This book takes place a few months after the first book. Emilia attends Angie’s wedding at Morrigan’s Castle, Ewan’s family home, along with the rest of the crew including Jasper and Abigail’s brother Tommy. Sadly, the wedding festivities become a murder scene, possible poisoning, and attacks on Emilia at the event. The victim is Angie’s ex-boyfriend who was not invited to the wedding. Adding more tension to the situation, the guests are snowed in by a blizzard and avalanche; so, no-one can come or go. Then Emilia, Ewan, and the gang jump into action to investigate and solve the murder.
This was a delightful story and I enjoyed learning about Scottish wedding traditions. The author keeps the suspense going right up until the end. I love the female relationships and strong bonds and I can’t wait to see what new adventure await Emilia and her friends. I do hope the next installment will delve more into the relationship between Emilia and Ewan much more. There is a sense that there could be more to their relationship. This was an excellent read and I would recommend reading the series in order.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
jmfafara's review
funny
hopeful
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
thebookishcajun's review against another edition
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
4.25
I grew up reading Agatha Christie novels, and I forgot just how much I love a good mystery. I'm so thankful to Lucy Connelly for reminding me with this wonderful story of Death at a Scottish Wedding. It feels strange referring to such a thing as 'wonderful,' and the plot of the novel is fully represented in the title.
This is the first book I've read by Lucy, and it's the second in the Scottish Isle Mystery series, and I'm already eager to go back and read the first book to fully meet this cast of characters. Emilia McRoy is a doctor from Seattle who recently moved to Sea Isle, Scotland to become both doctor and coroner for the town. In this story, she's been invited to be a bridesmaid in the wedding of one of her new friends in town. It was a cozy mystery with a slew of suspects (it was at a wedding, after all). And they get snowed in at a Scottish castle leading up to the wedding which makes it even more fun.
In addition to the murder mystery, Emilia has a bit of a hot and cold relationship with the constable, Ewan, which, as a romance reader, has me wondering about/hoping for a potential spark in the future. This was a fun read, and I can't wait to read more installments and get to know these characters even more!
Thank you to the author, Crooked Lane Books, and NetGalley for an advanced review copy.
This is the first book I've read by Lucy, and it's the second in the Scottish Isle Mystery series, and I'm already eager to go back and read the first book to fully meet this cast of characters. Emilia McRoy is a doctor from Seattle who recently moved to Sea Isle, Scotland to become both doctor and coroner for the town. In this story, she's been invited to be a bridesmaid in the wedding of one of her new friends in town. It was a cozy mystery with a slew of suspects (it was at a wedding, after all). And they get snowed in at a Scottish castle leading up to the wedding which makes it even more fun.
In addition to the murder mystery, Emilia has a bit of a hot and cold relationship with the constable, Ewan, which, as a romance reader, has me wondering about/hoping for a potential spark in the future. This was a fun read, and I can't wait to read more installments and get to know these characters even more!
Thank you to the author, Crooked Lane Books, and NetGalley for an advanced review copy.
the_sassy_bookworm's review
adventurous
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Book Review: Death at a Scottish Wedding by Lucy Connelly
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
First off, let me start by saying that I absolutely love the cover of this book. It immediately caught my attention and set the tone for the cozy mystery that lay inside. Now, onto my review.
In "Death at a Scottish Wedding," the second book in the Scottish Isle mystery series, author Lucy Connelly takes us on another thrilling adventure with Dr. Emilia McRoy. Set in the enchanting backdrop of Sea Isle, Scotland, this book is perfect for fans of Sheila Connolly and Charlene O'Connor.
Dr. Emilia McRoy, an American doctor who is finally feeling at home in Sea Isle, is invited to a wedding at Morrigan's Castle. Little does she know that this three-day celebration is about to take a dark turn. As a snowstorm hits and the castle becomes isolated, Emilia stumbles upon a dead body in one of the turrets. With no one claiming to know the victim, Emilia takes it upon herself to unravel the mystery before the killer strikes again.
What I loved most about this book was the well-written and well-paced plot. The mystery was skillfully plotted, keeping me guessing until the very end. Connelly expertly weaves together elements of suspense, romance, and humor, creating an engaging read that held my attention throughout.
The setting of a snowed-in castle in Scotland added an extra layer of charm to the story. Connelly's vivid descriptions brought the castle and its surroundings to life, making me feel like I was right there alongside Emilia, exploring the hidden secrets within its walls.
The characters in this book were another highlight for me. Emilia, as the protagonist, was relatable and likable. Her determination to uncover the truth, even with her own life at risk, made her a compelling character to follow. The supporting cast, including Constable Ewan Campbell, added depth and complexity to the story. Their interactions and relationships felt genuine, further immersing me in the narrative.
One aspect that impressed me about "Death at a Scottish Wedding" was its ability to stand alone as a book in a series. While it is the second installment in the Scottish Isle mystery series, I had no trouble following the story or connecting with the characters. Connelly provides enough background information without overwhelming readers who may be new to the series.
In conclusion, "Death at a Scottish Wedding" is a delightful cozy mystery that will captivate fans of the genre. With its well-crafted plot, charming setting, and well-developed characters, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking an entertaining and engrossing mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Dr. Emilia McRoy and eagerly look forward to reading the next book in this series.
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
First off, let me start by saying that I absolutely love the cover of this book. It immediately caught my attention and set the tone for the cozy mystery that lay inside. Now, onto my review.
In "Death at a Scottish Wedding," the second book in the Scottish Isle mystery series, author Lucy Connelly takes us on another thrilling adventure with Dr. Emilia McRoy. Set in the enchanting backdrop of Sea Isle, Scotland, this book is perfect for fans of Sheila Connolly and Charlene O'Connor.
Dr. Emilia McRoy, an American doctor who is finally feeling at home in Sea Isle, is invited to a wedding at Morrigan's Castle. Little does she know that this three-day celebration is about to take a dark turn. As a snowstorm hits and the castle becomes isolated, Emilia stumbles upon a dead body in one of the turrets. With no one claiming to know the victim, Emilia takes it upon herself to unravel the mystery before the killer strikes again.
What I loved most about this book was the well-written and well-paced plot. The mystery was skillfully plotted, keeping me guessing until the very end. Connelly expertly weaves together elements of suspense, romance, and humor, creating an engaging read that held my attention throughout.
The setting of a snowed-in castle in Scotland added an extra layer of charm to the story. Connelly's vivid descriptions brought the castle and its surroundings to life, making me feel like I was right there alongside Emilia, exploring the hidden secrets within its walls.
The characters in this book were another highlight for me. Emilia, as the protagonist, was relatable and likable. Her determination to uncover the truth, even with her own life at risk, made her a compelling character to follow. The supporting cast, including Constable Ewan Campbell, added depth and complexity to the story. Their interactions and relationships felt genuine, further immersing me in the narrative.
One aspect that impressed me about "Death at a Scottish Wedding" was its ability to stand alone as a book in a series. While it is the second installment in the Scottish Isle mystery series, I had no trouble following the story or connecting with the characters. Connelly provides enough background information without overwhelming readers who may be new to the series.
In conclusion, "Death at a Scottish Wedding" is a delightful cozy mystery that will captivate fans of the genre. With its well-crafted plot, charming setting, and well-developed characters, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking an entertaining and engrossing mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Dr. Emilia McRoy and eagerly look forward to reading the next book in this series.
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️