This is the 10th book in the Scottish Bookshop series. Delaney wins an invitation to meet Ryory Bennigan at his studio. He recreates stones that were left behind by Picts. Dr. Pace says he has an artifact that can translate the Picts language. Dr. Pace is found dead! Delaney decides to investigate and is put in serious danger.

I am a fan of Paige Shelton's writing, so when I saw this one, I grabbed it. I knew it was later in a series, but I was hoping that wouldn't matter. Mainly, it didn't, but I do think some background on the characters and the relationships would have provided more context. This is a great cozy mystery set in Scotland. The descriptions of the setting were a highlight. The mystery was a little easy to predict, but I still enjoyed it.

I absolutely love the Scottish Bookstore mysteries - the characters, the setting, the series - each book in the series so far (and this is Book TEN!) has been fantastic but, if I'm being honest, Written in Stone, may be my favourite of them all. From Delaney to the supporting cast, from the mysterious artist Ryory to the even more mysterious Picts, I found the entire book intriguing and entertaining and loved every minute of it.

As I'm already quite familiar with the characters in this series, I was pulled in from the start when Delaney and Tom went to meet a reclusive artist and his assistant. Ryory was larger than life, even though he was just a character written into a book. I could almost feel his magnetism and energy. And his fascination (bordering on obsession) with the Picts, a subject I know next to nothing about, made things even more interesting. It was really fun to learn more about the Pictish history and culture and the book makes it very easy to be drawn in.

The mystery and murder were also intriguing. The victim, Dr. Pace wasn't a very likeable character, so there wasn't much sympathy lost, but what kept me turning the page was because I wanted to find out who the murderer really was. There were so many twists and turns that it never got boring and I couldn't put the book down.

I always love revisiting Delaney and her fellow co-workers at The Cracked Spine bookshop. The shop itself is interesting enough, with all its untold treasures, both in book form and otherwise but the characters in this series are also a big draw. I love how Delaney has really settled into life in Edinburgh and the shop and its people feel familiar and welcoming.

While I feel like this story can be read as a standalone, it is so much more enjoyable when read as part of the series. As with many popular, long-running cozy mystery series, it's the familiarity of the characters that keeps me coming back for more and seeing them grow and evolve together is heartwarming.

I'm really looking forward to the next adventure in the Scottish Bookshop mysteries!

*** Thank you to the publisher, Minotaur Books, for providing me with a copy of this book for review purposes.

This is the tenth release in the charming Scottish Book Store Mystery series. This is a beautifully atmospheric series set in Edinburgh in a historical old bookstore.

In this next in series our intrepid protagonist and book seller Delaney has a invitation to visit a artist focused on the Pic era and their culture. She is soon involved in a murder and with historical facts and present day she is finding clues abound.

I enjoy this series for the wonderful setting and smart protagonist. The sleuth was well crafted to completion. This next in series I highly recommend.

Thank you Minotaur and NetGalley for the DRC of Written in Stone. All opinions in this review are my own.

Although it is the 10th book in the series, Written in Stone is the third book in the Scottish Bookshop Myseries that I have read. I always enjoy these books because of the setting and characters. However, I didn't love this mystery. I like that it is based on Scottish history, but I felt like it read like one of Delaney's first mysteries instead of the tenth one she is able to help solve.

This was a charming bookish cozy mystery. This was also the first book I’ve read by this author. Even though this is tenth in the series, it’s good as a standalone novel. Taking place is Edinburgh, Scotland, the author sets the scene well. The characters are well developed and I was charmed by them all. I enjoyed the unique historical aspects about the Picts that were presented, as I was not aware of this group of people.
I would recommend this to anyone who loves bookish mysteries. I’m also very interested in reading more by this author!
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC

I have enjoyed following all of Delaney’s adventures from her arrival in Edinburgh to her discovering the mysterious archives at the Cracked Spine to her burgeoning relationships with her fellow employees and her romance with Tom to her wedding. Along the way, she has developed a working friendship with the police as she helps them solve murders. She is not a reckless heroine nor does she do silly things. I like that about her and the other characters. They are substantive and realistic. So when she is invited to a special meet and greet with a very elusive artists, she is surprised her reputation has proceeded her. This is a good thing since he is going to require her help when someone she met in passing at his show is murdered.

The deceased is a professor from Delaney’s Kansas Alma Mater. He is very likeable but as things about him come to light, it is a shock to discover he was a very naughty boy. There is suspicion that he was selling “artifacts” that were anything but from antiquity. Might someone who had been bamboozled by his cons taken their folly to an extreme. It is going to take the combined smarts of the Cracked Spine and the local constabulary to figure out who committed the crime and why. I did suspect the killer but did not know the why. I always second guess when I cannot twig to the motive until the final reveal. It keeps things entertaining. Four purrs and two paws up.

I loved:
* being back in Scotland with Delaney and Co. and all their shenanigans.
* more with Edwin; he is truly one of my most favorite characters in this series and I love when we get to spend extra time with him.
* Edwin's gift to Delaney; what an absolute gorgeous and appropriate treasure.
* the whole story; the mix of The Picts [which I knew absolutely nothing about, and am now looking for a good biography], science [Dinosaurs! 3-D Printers!], tattoos [I will admit this part of the story made me want to get a new tattoo really badly; ink is very addictive LOL; the story around everyone's tattoos was pretty cool too], [the appearance of BURKE!!!], Delaney actively NOT trying to get herself killed and actually LISTENING to her friends about all of this aspect [it was truly refreshing] all made for a really great read.
* the new narrator [see below] was way more enjoyable than I had expected [WHEW!] and that truly added to my enjoyment of the book.

What wasn't enjoyable [for me]:
* the *idea* of a new narrator; 4 narrators in 10 books is *WHEW* and I was less than impressed when I saw that this book was going to have another new one [see above about how this actually turned out].
* the V E R Y rushed reveal [that in all honesty wasn't a huge surprise; I had wondered about that direction from almost the beginning], but the "why" was [it's always money isn't it?].
* Ummm, where the HECK were Elias and Aggie? I missed them SO VERY MUCH. Hmph.
* the feeling that we are end of this lovely series; the end of the last chapter felt very contemplative, slightly bereft [even though it was a positive outlook about Delaney's life there], and in all honesty, final, and even though I truly enjoyed this book, I was left...sad. I truly hope that I am wrong, that it was just contemplative reflection and that we have more books coming, but if we don't and this series IS finished, I am glad it ended on a very positive note.

Overall, this was a really good read for me and I am glad I finally found the audiobook and was able to listen to it. So far, it is the best read for me this week!!

Thank you to NetGalley, Paige Shelton, and St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

★★★½
This tenth Scottish Bookshop Mystery introduces us to Delaney Nichols, an American working at Edinburgh's Cracked Spine bookshop who encounters two fascinating characters: a Pict-obsessed artist covered in blue tattoos and a paleontologist with a mysterious artifact. When the paleontologist turns up dead, Delaney's sleuthing instincts kick in.

Vibes We Are Tracking:
🔍 Amateur sleuth who can't help herself
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Atmospheric Scottish setting
📚 Bookish community feels
🗿 Historical mystery with modern consequences

The Edinburgh setting wraps around you like a wool blanket—cozy and authentic—though the mystery unfolds at a leisurely pace that sometimes tested my patience. The Pictish cultural details often overshadowed the actual murder plot, which stays murky until the final pages.

Despite these shortcomings, The Cracked Spine bookshop feels like discovering a hidden gem—comfortable and welcoming, even if this installment lacks the narrative tightness I typically crave in mysteries.

Dollycas Thoughts

Reclusive artist Ryory Bennigan is inviting people to visit his studio with a special Hidden Door Festival invitation, and Delaney Nichols has won a chance to visit and meet the man. She learns the man is fixated on the Picts, creating his own versions of their ” blue tattoos and vibrant red hair”. There is also a paleontologist, Dr. Adam Pace, from the University of Kansas, visiting Edinburgh. He claims he has an artifact that shows what the language of the Picts sounds like. He is trying to sell it to the highest bidder, Ryory Bennigan.

Before Dr. Pace can seal the deal, he is killed shortly after meeting with Delany. She doesn’t think the police’s investigation is progressing fast enough, so she decides to do some investigating too. She finds Dr. Pace has a dodgy past. It appears a 3D printer was his best friend back in Kansas. He was making fake artifacts and selling them as genuine.

Could he have sold a fake to the wrong person? Was the Picts artifact he was trying to sell to Ryory real or fake? Can Delaney get to the truth and find Dr. Pace’s killer? Or will she be their next victim?

I always enjoy my virtual trips to Edinburgh and The Cracked Spine to visit Delaney, Tom, Rosie, Hamlet, Edwin, and Hector. They are well-developed characters that continue to grow within each story. Delaney has such a curious nature about everything and everyone she encounters. She and Tom are the perfect couple, and I love it when they can spend true time together like they did in this story. I also liked that Edwin was more present in this story. He does give Delaney a perfect gift.

Ms. Shelton penned an intriguing mystery. With the University of Kansas connection between Delaney and the victim, Dr. Pace, even Detective Winters realized she could help his case. She does discover some troubling things that raise even more questions. I was entertained following along with her for every twist and turn. Suspects moved up and down my personal list. Secrets and scandals were uncovered, leading up to a surprising and suspenseful reveal.

When I started reading this book, I had never heard of the Picts. The author weaves information about the ancient group that inhabited Scotland from 79 to 843 CE and their traditions and culture with the current-day activities. It is a very interesting theme for this book.

Written in Stone is a marvelous addition to this series. A brave protagonist who can think on her feet and a well-thought-out and plotted mystery kept the pages turning rapidly. Delaney has really found herself and her place in Edinburgh.

Paige Shelton suspends disbelief with Scottish Bookshop mystery Written in Story. Bookseller Dey Nichols and her husband visit a reclusive artist who only allows a few in his studio and is famous for the tattoos on his body in Edinburgh. There they meet a professor from the American university Delaney studied at. The next day he is found murdered; turns out the professor was peddling fake antiquities that he 3D printed. Whodunit? Read and find the villain.

I absolutely adore this series. It’s the perfect mix of mystery and historical information. It’s a mystery made in nerd heaven.

The main character Delaney is intelligent, clever, and curious. Also, her group of friends from the bookstore and beyond are so lovable. Although you could read it on its own, this book (and series) benefits from following the characters from book 1.

The history about the Picts and dinosaur bones was fascinating. The storyline was fast paced and easy to follow, but there were fewer twists and the killer wasn’t as hard to figure out (though the reason took time to develop).

Overall, another great installment, and I can’t wait to read what adventures Delaney gets into next!

Thanks you to #NetGalley and #MinotaurBooks for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Paige Shelton does it again! Fans of the Scottish Bookshop mysteries will be excited for this addition. I enjoyed the unexpected bridge between the USA and Scotland, the tattoo artist, and learning more about ancient times. I've already recommended it to my cozy friends!

3.5 stars
A solid contribution to the series. The historical content has become an important element, and the Picts make sense as the choice for this one. It is always good to visit The Cracked Spine and the friends there.

I received a copy of this title from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review..

“Written in Stone” is the interesting tenth book in Paige Shelton’s Scottish Bookshop Cozy Mystery series. I did think the book got off to a bit of a slow start but it picked up a few chapters in. I do love my visits to The Cracked Spine Bookstore and those that work there – Delaney, Rosie, Hamlet, owner Edwin, and of course Hector the dog. The mystery is a good one although we barely get to know the victim before the murder although we do learn more as the book goes along – at first I wasn’t sure if that was a good thing but it ultimately worked out. I liked learning something knew when reading a book and this time I learned quite a bit about the Picts and may do some more research on them. The mystery is well done with just the right amount of suspects – there were a few things that I thought were left hanging and could have been tied up better but all in all it was an enjoyable mystery and a pleasant way to spend a few hours reading.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.

Written in Stone by Paige Shelton has Delaney Nichols meeting a new artist, delving into the history of the Picts, and digging into a new mystery. It was great to catch up with Delaney, Tom, Rosie, Edwin, Hector, and the rest of The Cracked Spine crew. I found the artist Ryory Bennigan fascinating. I wish we had learned more about this mysterious artist (maybe in a future book). I enjoyed hearing about the local history and about the Picts (what little we know about them) plus there are beautiful descriptions of the local architecture (Delaney is so lucky). The mystery was the weak link in the story. It was not at the forefront. I felt that the motive was shoved into the shadows and the author hoped that no one would notice that the killer’s intent was not fully addressed. The ending was abrupt and left me with lingering questions. Written in Stone is the tenth A Scottish Bookshop Mystery. It can be read as a standalone for those new to the series. While I liked parts of Written in Stone, it is my least favorite book in the series. I loved the special gift Delaney received from her boss. I am quite envious. Written in Stone is a Scottish cozy mystery with a reclusive artist, colorful tattoos, a sick assistant, Pict history, a curious crime, an exceptional present, a printing production, and a special bookstore.

This is book 10 in the Scottish Bookshop series and it's a wonderful addition. Delaney is a winner of a tour and she's excited to see the gallery. This is book 2 in the Antique Hunter's guide to murder series. C.L. Miller does a good job of catching you up from book 1 in Chapter 1. When a painting vanishes from a maritime museum and a dead body is found nearby, the newly established Lockwood Antique Hunter’s Agency, Freya Lockwood and her Aunt Carole, are called to investigate.
Following a lead that takes them aboard a glamorous antiques cruise sailing toward the Red Sea in Jordan, they quickly discover that the ships art gallery is filled with stolen antiquities. Each antique is also listed in Freya’s late mentor’s journals that detail unsolved cases. In chasing a murderer with a stolen painting, they may have found something more sinister than they could’ve imagined…
Their hunt soon turns deadly when they learn the enigmatic and dangerous art trafficker named The Collector could be on board. But on a ship full of antiques enthusiasts—plus some unexpected familiar faces—will Freya and Carole be able to discover the Collector’s identity and stop his murderous plans

When Delaney wins an exclusive invitation to artist Ryory Bennigan's studio during the Hidden Door Festival, she has no idea the adventure that awaits.
What begins as a cultural treat quickly spirals into a thrilling mystery filled with unexpected twists. Delaney, visiting from Kansas, crosses paths with Dr. Pace—an old acquaintance from her college days—who turns out to be involved in shady dealings, attempting to pass off fraudulent artifacts. When Dr. Pace is found murdered, suspicion falls on Ryory.
Determined to clear his name, Delaney teams up with her loyal bookshop crew to uncover the truth.
I absolutely loved this installment and the entire series. The characters, setting, and fast-paced plot kept me hooked from beginning to end!

#WritteninStone#NetGalley

Written in Stone by Paige Shelton
Review by Sarah Erwin

Written in Stone is book 10 in Paige Shelton’s entertaining Scottish Bookshop cozy mystery series. Readers who enjoy armchair travel should be sure to dip into this series for a trip to Edinburgh. While this is book 10 it works as a standalone for readers new to the series. Delaney Nichols is living a lovely life working in a specialty bookstore in Edinburgh called The Cracked Spine and enjoying her marriage to pub owner Tom Shannon.

Delaney is excited to win a special Hidden Door Festival invitation to artist Rory Bennigan’s studio. Rory is obsessed with the Picts (an ancient people who inhabited what is now Northern Scotland. They are known for many things, including elaborate carved stones, which are discussed in this mystery.)

While on the tour, Delaney and Tom also meet visiting paleontologist Dr. Adam Pace, from the University of Kansas, attempting to sell an artifact. Only days later Pace is found dead and no one is sure of the details. Was it an accident? Never one to sit idly by when there is information to be gathered, Delaney begins investigating Pace’s background and learns it’s a shady one. Delaney then dives into an investigation of his death, putting herself in some dangerous situations.

Delaney is a wonderful main character – thoughtful and curious, with a deep love of learning. As a result, readers learn a lot on a variety of topics. Delaney is an expert researcher, but I never felt bogged down by facts. Paige blends interesting historical information into the story seamlessly. I did not know anything about the Picts and always enjoy when I can come away from a book with a little extra knowledge.

Delaney does make me nervous sometimes, as she’s so determined to uncover the truth she often puts herself in tricky, dangerous spots. That’s the life of an amateur sleuth. I’m glad she’s surrounded by friends that support her and look out for her. I did guess the ending of this mystery, but Paige’s writing style is so engaging, that guessing the end did not take away any of my reading enjoyment.

Another charming aspect of this series is the setting of Edinburgh and the descriptive details of the place and The Cracked Spine. It’s truly an immersive reading experience for which I am grateful as I know I won’t be traveling to Scotland anytime soon.

An enjoyable entry into a long-running series!

So nice to continue reading this series with familiar characters and settings. Topic was one I was unfamiliar with, but author did good job of explaining important points that were relevant to the mystery. Thanks to # NetGalley and #WrittenInStone for advanced digital copy.