Wow just wow, How has this series got past me? Why has it taken till book 6 to attract my attention? Hooked from page 1 of this superbly written, well paced with stunning scenery great characters., what more can you ask for. Thank you to the publishers and the author for an ARC in exchange for a honest review. My book of the year so far. 5 stars is not enough. Now I have to catch up on the previous 5 books before book 7.

I came very late to this series, but have eagerly devoured every book, the latest, book 6 A Killer in the Shadows shows why Neil Lancaster is one of todays top crime writers. The quality within is to be more than applauded. A series which goes from strength to strength From the opening pages my interest was piqued, why would a crime be committed on a mountain?, it creates for a chilling and compelling read This was one of those reads where you think you know who the killer is but that’s only half the story, for me it was more why dunnit, and that was intriguing Meticuolsy plotted, you get a deep intense layer of suspense running throughout the narrative, the themes in the book are often dark which for me just adds to pleasure of reading I’ve come to expect standout characters within the books and this is no exception, wonderfully fleshed out, one character though which can sometimes go overlooked is location, here the writing gives a real sense of place, its easy to picture in your mind the wonders of the setting, the writing brings everything to life, painting a vivid backdrop to the story There are numerous strong points within the book, one area which stands out for me is that these books are a team effort, this comes across strongly, by now i’m familiar with the team each as important to bringing the culprits to justice as the other, no egos, plenty of banter all done with a mutual respect each member knowing their place and role, equally within the books you can see the authors own experiences shining through A full on action paced read, the quality of the writing had me spellbound, I also feel a total sense of realism to the plots when I read these books, gritty and hard hitting. It races along with plenty of twists, building to the dramatic finale With the impending birth of Max’s first child there was more of a Human feel to the book, you can sense an inner conflict between seeing the job through but also the need to do right by Katie In someways the story shows the perils when personal information is posted on social media and how determined some within society can can be to manipulate these posts, underpinning this you see how past experiences can affect and shape one’s future A gripping and engaging read I read to be entertained, Neil Lancaster does that in spades, highly recommended

Another cracking episode in the life of DS Max Craigie. Great setting, great atmosphere and let’s hear it for the midgies! Loved that the several strands were so beautifully interwoven. The whole story showcasing the teamwork needed to solve a case. Loving Barney and Clive looks like they will be appearing again. A wee link to the Mountain Rescue might help with their funding - just an idea! Can’t wait for the next one!

This is a gripping and fast paced thriller that consumed me for an entire day. I hadn’t read the preceding novels in the Cragie series, but will definitely do so now. It certainly works as a stand alone police thriller, with a good balance of character, action and suspense and has left me wanting more Cragie, curious as to his back story. The writer has added plenty of Scottish colour and vernacular along with some memorable turns of phrase making the characters likeable and accessible. From the outset the story moves at pace and sweeps the reader along. A definite page turner that you won’t want to put down. A few cogent flashbacks tease at possible story lines without revealing where the writer is going to take you. As the story moves along the personal and work life challenges are well balanced, neither detracting or distracting from the other. The main cast are all enjoyable, flawed, authentic and likeable. I don’t really see the Reacher comparisons made by some, other than the main character being ex military. This is a more ensemble piece, more realistic and better for it. Thank you to NetGalley and HQ for an eARC of When Shadows Fall.

Another superb book in this cracking series! When a lone female climber dies having fallen off the mountain, it is regarded as an accident. After all, there are many women 'bagging' Munros. Then, thanks to a friend, DS Max Craigie becomes aware that this wasn't an isolated death and determines to find out exactly what is going on .. . . I've loved every book in this series, and really looked forward to this one - and I was not disappointed. With things going on in his private life, this case takes it's toll as it takes him away from home. I always feel that this is one of the more realistic series set in Scotland; there is so much more to the police force than we realise. This one intrigued me until the last few pages - I had no idea who the perpetrator was and I freely admit to being shocked when it was revealed. Beautifully written, as always, this is another novel from this author which kept me on my toes all the way through. I can barely wait to see where this series head next but, for now, this one easily merits all five shining stars.