Trick of the Light: A Highland Mystery featuring Susie Mahl

Artist and pet portraitist Susie Mahl is hired as an art tutor at a Scottish country house, but she soon discovers that there are hidden secrets and mysteries lurking beneath the beautiful landscapes and grandeur of the estate.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2021
Publisher: Oneworld Publications

Pet portraitist Susie Mahl is called upon to employ her artistic expertise to unravel a perplexing Scottish mystery.

Highland Mysteries has garnered widespread acclaim for its captivating blend of crime fiction and English aristocracy. The Daily Mail praised it as "a delicious new voice in crime writing," highlighting its excellent portrayal of the English elite and its witty writing style. Alexander McCall Smith, a renowned author, expressed his delight, stating, "This is a well-paced and exciting read. More please!" Antonia Fraser, another esteemed critic, described the book as "absorbing, charming, and funny."

Susie Mahl, grappling with long-buried family secrets and the recent pain of a heartbreak, seeks solace in a temporary art tutoring role at the Auchen Laggan Tosh estate in the Scottish Highlands. However, she soon realizes that her task goes beyond instructing her diverse group of students in drawing Highland cows. Hidden beneath the picturesque landscapes and the grandeur of the estate lies a web of secrets that demand her attention. Can Susie unravel the mystery before it's too late? And can anyone be trusted?

The story unfolds as Susie delves deeper into the lives of the residents of Auchen Laggan Tosh, including the enigmatic Lord and Lady Auchen Laggan, their daughter, Lady Caroline, and the estate's caretaker, Mr. MacLeod. As she interacts with these characters, Susie begins to uncover clues that hint at a sinister plot lurking beneath the surface. She must navigate through a maze of lies, deceit, and betrayal, using her artistic intuition and sharp observation skills to piece together the truth.

Along the way, Susie encounters various challenges and obstacles, including a series of mysterious deaths and a hidden treasure that holds the key to the mystery. She must confront her own fears and insecurities, as well as confront the dark secrets of her own past, to unravel the mystery and bring justice to those affected.

Highland Mysteries is a captivating and suspenseful tale that will keep readers engaged from start to finish. Susie Mahl's artistic background adds depth and authenticity to the story, as she explores the intricate connections between art, mystery, and the human psyche. The book's vivid descriptions of the Scottish Highlands and the Auchen Laggan Tosh estate create a vivid and immersive atmosphere, transporting readers to a world of intrigue and danger.

In conclusion, Highland Mysteries is a must-read for fans of crime fiction and those who enjoy a blend of mystery, art, and intrigue. Susie Mahl's debut novel showcases her talent as a writer and her ability to create a compelling and immersive story. With its well-crafted plot, memorable characters, and atmospheric setting, this book is sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.

Weight: 336g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786077684