Death of a Kingfisher by M.C. Beaton

When the setting becomes a character in the story, then you know the author has done her job placing the reader smack dab in the middle of the plot.

Author M.C. Beaton has a way of doing this in her Hamish Macbeth Mystery series. Her latest release, DEATH OF A KINGFISHER, is no exception.

Braikie, a picturesque village in the Scottish Highlands, plays a key role in this mystery. It is a small acreage called Buchan’s Wood in the quaint town that attracts the suspense, mystery and murder. The small plot of land has been bequeathed to the town.

With the recession hitting the town, savory tourist director Mary Leinster renames the area ‘The Fairy Glen.’  She then begins promoting it as a great site for tourists. It, in fact, has a kingfisher that visit’s the pond and quickly becomes a pull for the tourists.

When a series of mishaps begin happening in and around ‘The Fairy Glen,’ Police Constable Hamish Macbeth sets out to solve the problems. When dead bodies begin turning up, Macbeth knows it’s all connected. He must put the pieces together to save the village from financial ruin, while keeping everyone safe.

Throughout this fast-pace mystery, the author sprinkles bits of humor and vivid descriptions of the lovely village and its unique residents. For fans of the series, there are references to Macbeth’s love life but not so much that new readers are left in the dark.

DEATH OF A KINGFISHER has interesting twists and turns to keep you guessing. The end will leave you wanting more as you wait anxiously for the next installment.

Author M.C. Beaton’s website is www.mcbeaton.com

Death of a Kingfisher by M.C. Beaton, A Hamish Macbeth Mystery, Grand Central Publishing, @2012, ISBN: 978-0446547369, Hardcover, 256 Pages 

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.