Police Sergeant Hamish Macbeth is happy working on his own in the Highlands of Scotland, in Lochdubh. He is not thrilled when his superior informs him that he'll be getting a partner and less thrilled that it is a woman, Josie McSween. Josie asked to be transferred to work with Hamish as she has had a crush on him for a long time. Hamish doesn't think much of her police work and sends her off to do menial work. But things become messy when a local girl is killed by a letter bomb. It turns out she wasn't the sweet, innocent girl people thought she was. Every time Hamish gets close to a suspect, there is another murder, too many suspects and Josie keeps getting in his way. While he is determined to solve this case, Josie is determined to make Hamish fall in love with her, no matter what it takes.
This was a fun, cozy mystery. Hamish is a great character, a gruff sought after, handsome bachelor determined to stay that way. But he takes his police work seriously. The people of the village make for some interesting characters and I enjoyed the setting. The author gives the characters a Scottish brogue that adds to the atmosphere.
This is my first Hamish Macbeth mystery and I very much enjoyed it. I don't know if the author usually has a second plot but I enjoyed the crazy Josie story even if it was a bit over the top. There are 25 other Macbeth mysteries and this was the 24th, so I think I might go back to the beginning and enjoy this series.
my rating 4/5
6 comments:
BBC America used to play the Hamish McBeth series that was originally aired in England. I really enjoyed them. Robert Carlyle played Hamish. At the time, I had no idea they were based on books (I should have known). Ever since I found out about the books, I've been wanting to check them out. I need to start watching at my library sales. Anyway, thanks for the review. It sounds like a book I would enjoy.
I have never read any of these though they are always on my mind when I go to the store. One of these days.
Oh sounds like a wonderful mystery read for you. :) So glad you enjoyed your first Macbeth read. :)
Sounds a bit unprofessional of Josie ... but then that is what makes it a cozy I guess!
The earlier books are better (imho,anyway). Beaton's latest seems to have too much senseless violence in them. Hamish's love life or lack of is always a running secondary plot line - some a lot funnier than others. I really like this series too, enjoying the highland setting.
I love Hamish! I haven't read any of these in a while. Think once winter gets here it will be time for more cozy mysteries!
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