Book Review: Murder at Ardaig Castle by Matt Brolly
From the very moment I stumbled upon Murder at Ardaig Castle, I could feel that shiver of excitement that only a gripping mystery can deliver. As part of the Detective Lola Harris series, I was eager to see how Brolly would weave together suspense, rich Scottish landscapes, and a tangled web of secrets. And let me tell you—this book did not disappoint.
Set against the backdrop of Ardaig Castle—a secluded retreat in the breathtaking Scottish Highlands—the story quickly draws you into a world pulsating with tension. The premise is deceptively simple: a killer is lurking among the staff as Detective Lola Harris takes a much-needed break. But in true Brolly fashion, the plot thickens effortlessly. I loved how the storm outside became a character in itself, amplifying the isolation and paranoia within the castle walls. It created a perfect atmosphere for an unraveling mystery that kept me on the edge of my seat.
Lola Harris is wonderfully complex. She’s a character that feels real, battling her own demons while investigating a murder that seems to uncover deeper, darker truths about her companions. The other characters are equally well-developed, each harboring secrets that make them suspects in their own right. I particularly enjoyed the clever way Brolly crafted their backstories—flashes of vulnerability amidst the tension make for a compelling read.
The writing style is tight yet vivid, making the cold stone floors of the castle and the howling winds outside palpably real. Brolly’s pacing is spot on; he gradually doles out twists and reveals that left me breathless. My favorite moment was when the malicious letters started surfacing. That brilliant mix of mystery and dread had me questioning everyone’s motives and left me gasping for breath. The chilling line—"Why have you employed a killer among your staff?"—is a haunting reminder of the lurking danger and a perfect hook that had me turning the pages long into the night.
Readers have already begun to rave, with one NetGalley reviewer exclaiming, “A fantastic book!” and another referring to it as a “masterpiece.” I couldn’t agree more; the sheer intricacy of plot and character development is remarkable.
If you’re a fan of J.D. Kirk, Ian Rankin, or Val McDermid, Murder at Ardaig Castle will undoubtedly satisfy your craving for suspense. It’s a story about secrets, lies, and the lengths to which people will go to protect them—all enveloped in a chilling Scottish ambiance that I found utterly captivating.
This book not only entertained me; it made me reflect on human nature and the masks we wear. If you’re looking for your next enthralling read and love a good whodunit, dive into this one. Just be prepared to lose track of time—because once you enter Ardaig Castle, there’s no turning back!