This mystery was alright... I did like some aspects of the story, like the setting of 1870s Scotland. But the plot was slightly tedious to get through. There are several characters to get to know and understand.

The narrator did a great job of clear and concise narration. A lot of the time, I sped through this book on 2.0 speed or 2.5.

Adult reading. Contains vulgar language and mature topics.

I'm currently not planning to read the other books in this series, but that's just me. I know that many other people just love this series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley, but was not required to leave a positive review.

4.5 Stars: Death at a Highland Wedding is the 4th book in the Rip Through Time series and another enjoyable story. Mallory, Gray, and McCreadie are on their way to the Scottish Highlands for McCreadie's younger sister, Fiona's wedding to Archie Cranston. The McCreadies and the groom’s family, the Cranstons, have a complicated history. At one time, McCreadie was engaged to Viola, Archie's sister. He broke it off because he was in love with someone else. Things were uncomfortable, so Gray and Mallory sneak off to explore the beautiful grounds and surrounding area. While out for their walk, they discover that the games keeper that Archie has hired has places deadly traps on the grounds to trap the endangered Scottish cats. They are also a danger to the kids who are poaching the roe deer. The games keeper is a prickly, pompous, obnoxious man, that Archie doesn't even like, so why is he working there? When they find a wildcat caught and injured in a trap, they take the kittens to take care of them. It seems that the cat wasn't killed in the trap, but poisoned and placed there. Who would do that and why? One of the guests then turns up murdered, bludgeoned to death, a man that is turns out has some history with Archie's sister, Viola. With an incompetent policeman investigating, Gray, Mallory and McCreadie get involved to help find the killer, especially after Archie is arrested.

This was another wonderful story set in Victorian Scotland. Mallory has traveled to the past, 150 years after being hit on the head in an alley. She was a modern day detective in Vancouver, British Columbia who now works as an assistant to undertaker, coroner, Dr. Duncan Gray. This was an interesting mystery that once again used some basic investigating, questioning and putting the clues together to figure out the crime. I like that the chemistry between Mallory and Duncan is heating up, and just maybe they might act on their feelings sooner rather than later. With Mallory in danger once again, Duncan is able to show up just in time. I love how frustrated Mallory gets in the clothing she wears. It is hard to move the way she wants, and sometimes even hard to breathe. I was surprised by the ending of this one, a bit of a moral dilemma. When you read this one, let me know what you think. The audiobook is narrated by Kate Handford and she does a great job with the story. She uses tone and accents to differentiate the voices and it is just enough without overwhelming the story.

I obsessively binged the first few books in this series and then had to wait impatiently for this next installments. This one started a little slow, but once the mystery started, I was fully invested. The murder investigation was quite enjoyable with some interesting leads. I equally enjoy the internal personal relationships which arguably is the biggest draw of this series. I love a “person out of time” series and this one has helped to fill the void of Outlander.

I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys a mystery thriller with a touch of romance. However, you will want to start at the beginning to appreciate the full character development.

Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

Time travelling modern day homicide detective Mallory Atkinson is back again in her new life as a Victorian era Scotland housemaid, known as Catrina Mitchell and this time, the household has been invited to their friends family wedding in the Highlands!

Invited to keep the peace at an awkward family get together Mallory and her boss, Dr. Duncan Gray managed to stumble across a murder in the midst of wedding preparations! Duncan uses his medical expertise as an undertaker and Mallory detective skills as they try to find the murderer and exonerate their host!

This was another fun and interesting addition to the rip through time series, and it added a lot to the character side plots, like the relationship between Mallory and Duncan and a blossoming romance between their friend detective Hugh McCready and Duncan‘s sister.

The murder mystery itself was interesting and provided many twists and surprises as the characters investigated.

I listen to the audiobook narrated by Kate Hanford, and I really enjoyed how she manages to capture the dual personalities that Mallory’s character presents, her modern day Mallory and her Victorian Scottish, Catrina. She also does a good job, differentiating the rest of the cast of characters and providing good pacing as she reads the text.

I’ve been enjoying this series since the initial book, A Rip Through Time, and I continue to do so! The mysteries are always fun and intriguing and I am getting really attached to Mallory and Duncan and the rest of the household and friends.

This was a perfect audio. The narrator did such a great job of holding my interest. She was good at playing each part and making you feel you was there. Well done.

I've enjoyed this series so much. I already look forward to the next book. I am rooting for Gray and Mallory to end up together. Though she has gone back 150 years in the past and basically decided to stay there Mallory pretty much has fallen for Gray.

In this book the group go to the Cranstons estate for a wedding. While there they encounter a few things that will make you cringe. And there is a murder. The murder of the groom's best friend. All is not as it seems though. While trying to find out who the murderer is Gray and Mallory uncover some pretty dark and sinister things. Things that the deceased may have done and the grounds keeper is part of.

I enjoyed this book so much. It was a real page turner. It keeps you guessing and keeps you on edge. The things going on are of a touchy nature. Or I should say things there went on. There are a few love tangles along the way. Some scandals also. Even back in this time period women were held responsible for anything that may happen to them of a sexual nature that they may not have wanted. Pretty much the same is today.

There are quite a few secrets revealed. A murder of course. Attempted kidnapping possibly. There are a few who could be guilty. I can't say I was shocked at who the murderer was even though I didn't guess. The reason fit.

My favorite character in this book was Fiona. She was just fun. And so honest. My least favorite was Muller. He was a cad of the worse kind. I look forward to reading more about Gray, Mallory, Isla, and McCreadie. Where they will end up next. I think this is my favorite book of this series so far. All are great though. This author knows how to write a story that pulls you in and keeps you wanting more.

Thank you to the publisher for this ARC.

I’ve read the first book in this series and now the fourth. I really enjoyed the story. I will definitely go back and read the others. The customers that like outlander will definitely like this series.

Slowest burn ever!

This series continues to delight with its mysterious time travel and Victorian mysteries and the broody Dr Gray. I love seeing the time period through Mallory’s modern POV and the setting is always on point. If you haven’t picked it up yet you should!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy. These opinions are my own.

I have loved the previous books in the series and yes I loved this book just as much.
Such a fantastically written story that got me hooked from the beginning.

I highly recommend reading it.

Mallory Atkinson, Isla, Dr. Duncan Gray and Hugh McCreadie are headed out of town to the Scottish Highlands to attend Hugh's younger sister's wedding. Fiona is to be married to Lord Archibald Cranston, a wealthy young man whom Gray and McCready know from their school days. Cranston’s best man is Ezra Sinclair, a well-liked person also well known to Gray and Hugh from school. Travelling with them is Hugh's former fiancé Volet, who is subdued and seemingly still hurting from Hugh's rejection years earlier.

Mallory quickly becomes annoyed with Cranston for his loudness and persistent bullying of Duncan, while she is impressed with Fiona's good sense and logical, curious mind.

Mallory also notices that there are tensions amongst the people of the village, who are angry that Archie has employed a dreadful person as his gamekeeper, who has laid many bear raps on his land, and that Archie has made no effort to get to know who the people of the village are.

When Ezra is found dead the next morning, Mallory and Duncan begin investigating, even while Mallory chafes at the societal restrictions upon women that force her to curtail her normal activities as an investigator. Much is revealed by their detecting, and much of it shocking.

I really enjoy this series, and the way Mallory is forced to rely on observation and interrogation in the form of tea and chats, rather than the forensic science she was used to. Thankfully, she's not had to hide her 21st century self from her closest associates while getting to the truth of their cases. Also, Mallory has developed genuine feelings for Gray, which only complicates their activities.

I enjoy that conflict and friction, and also the low tech approach to detection, as well as the great relationships Mallory has forged with Isla, Gray and Hugh, and Alice, the Gray's young maid.

I went back and forth between the prose and the audio, and greatly enjoyed voice actor Kate Handford's narration. She brings a humour and intelligence to Mallory, as well as to Isla and Alice which I enjoy a lot. And she creates a good balance between Duncan's curiosity and social awkwardness.

This was another enjoyable and compelling instalment in this series, and I can't wait for the next.

Thank you to Netgalley, St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for these ARCs in exchange for my review.

If you are looking for an intricately plotted time travel mystery series, then you have got to check out The Rip Through Time series from Kelley Armstrong.

I’m someone who loves being a couch detective, and I really enjoyed the mysteries and trying to solve them as I read. Plus, it is interesting to see how early forensics were used to solve crimes.

If you’re nervous about picking up this series out of order, don’t be! You can easily read each one as a standalone, but Armstrong puts in a brief rundown of things you might want to know from each book in the beginning.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁:

Cozy Mystery
Twists
Bit of romance
Atmosphere
Bad ass FMC

“Death at a Highland Wedding,” is the fourth novel in the enjoyable ‘A Rip Through Times” series by Kelley Armstrong. In the latest adventure, Mallory, Duncan, Isla, and Hugh are off to the Scottish highland for Hugh’s sister Fiona's wedding to Archie Cranston. The outing is marred by the presence of a murder mystery that propels them into a thrilling investigation to identify the perpetrator. This is one of my favorite series, which skillfully blends the historical backdrop of Victorian Scotland with the contemporary viewpoints of Mallory, our time-traveling heroine, as she adjusts to life as a woman in a bygone era.

Armstrong's writing style shines through in this beautifully executed plot and fluid storytelling. The characters are wonderful, pulling the reader into their world and encouraging them to root for their success. The measured pacing of the romance intertwines seamlessly with the unfolding mystery, creating a narrative rich in both suspense and emotional connection. It was delightful watching the progression of Isla and Hugh’s romance and there is definite movement between Duncan and Mallory.

The author blends mystery, romance, and fantasy, creating a narrative that feels both timeless and innovative. With moments that give the reader both surprise and delight, Armstrong skillfully infuse the plot with enough intrigue and suspense that ensures an engaging reading experience. Her vivid storytelling captures the enchanting and picturesque setting of the Highlands.

For fans of the author, “Death at a Highland Wedding,” has everything that the reader expects from an Armstrong novel, a thrilling mystery, vivid historical background, and a murder mystery that will captivate both romance and mystery lovers alike. I was fortunate enough to listen to the audio adaptation of this novel. Kate Handford continues to provide the voice for the series and does an excellent job. Her presentation was engaging, and her vocal range was on full display, and I highly recommend the audio version of this series.

Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to an advance copy of this audio book. All opinions expressed are my own.

Death at a Highland Wedding is the fourth entry in Kelley Armstrong's Rip Through Time series.

I have enjoyed every book that Kelley has written. Her female leads are always intelligent women that don’t back down. That’s certainly the case with modern day detective Mallory Atkinson. I say modern day because she has slipped back in 150 years into the past in the Scottish Highlands. She now helps an undertaker and a detective with cases.

It’s a great premise! Everything has to change if she’s going to stay….or go…. Speech, the attitudes, the roles and the rules of women, dressing, and so much more.

In this book Mallory, Gray, and McCreadie travel to a Highlands castle that’s surrounded by wilderness. A perfect setting for a murder, don't you think? It’s feels a bit like a Christie book. The answer for who dunit changes many times on the way to the final answer. I loved every page.

The mystery is excellent but that’s only half of it for this reader. The ‘yes, no, maybe so’ from some of the players will have you wondering. I’m always eager to see what’s going on with the players.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again - some books are better for me if I listen to them. That’s the case with this series. The narrator is Kate Handford and she did a fantastic job of presenting Armstrong's work. I appreciate the continuity with having the same narrator for each entry of this series. Her voice is clear, easy to understand and easy on the years. She's created many identifiable voices that let the listener who is speaking. A Scottish accent is needed for many of the characters and an inner American one for Mallory. The accent often changes within conversations and Handford keeps up with that. There's lots of scenes and situations that are dangerous, emotional etc. and Hanford captures the tone of the plot with her voice. An excellent reading of a really great book. An easy five stars.

Death at a Highland Wedding finds us in a new location than all the previous books as a wedding takes our characters to the countryside to attend a wedding. While we leave a few characters behind in this book, we do meet some new characters from Gray and Duncan's past. When one of the wedding attendees is found murdered, it's up to Mallory, Gray, and Duncan to solve the murder.

We see some development in the main two "will they/won't they" relationships of the series which was nice to see (even if I still want more). Like each of the previous books in the series, I couldn't predict the ending. I really hope this series continues for a long time because it's one of my favorites.

This time travel historical murder mystery is impeccably narrated by Kate Handford. Her accents are perfection and a delight to listen to, as one who is picky about English and Scottish accents. Kate handles the more heavy issues of rape and incest with the grace and dignity of the characters. I highly recommend this listen for any murder mystery and historical romance fans.

Death at a Highland Wedding by Kelley Armstrong
A Rip Through Time series #4. Historical mystery, timeslip. Diverse. Best read in series order.
Detective Hugh Mcacreadie’s sister is getting married in the Scottish highlands and Hugh has invited his friends, Dr Duncan Graham and his assistant Catriona, aka Mallory to the week in the country. The Cranstons estate and castle are beautiful, but when traps are discovered in the surrounding wooded paths, Gray and Mallory feel something isn’t quite right. Their unease is proved correct when one of the guests is found dead.
Gray, Mallory and Hugh use their expertise to determine what’s hidden in the woods and why.

🎧 I alternated between an ebook and audiobook copy which narrated by Kate Handford who does the full series. The performance is incredible with characters coming to life over the storytelling. Emotions are clear and distinct as a death is investigated and the traps cause an uneasy background to the estate owner. Mallory can’t help investigating and it’s amusing when she stumbles between her true police background vs. her young assistant persona. Tense situations lead to a bit of an emotional reveal that had me paying close attention to what came next.
I listened to this at 1.5 and slightly higher to more closely match my reading and conversation speed. I love being able to read the two formats together. It deepens both the visual and emotional for me.

I love this series for the grand storytelling, the mysteries, and mostly the characters that are uniquely themselves. Mallory’s occasional lapses in conversation about her timeline and a piece of science or machinery gives us an inside scoop into how she has to adjust her thinking and knowledge back to 1870. We also mourn that Duncan can’t know the world she lived in. He would love the science advances of the times.

Complex, compelling, intelligent and intriguing. It’s an absolute thrill to read this series.

I received a copy of this from NetGalley and publisher Macmillan Audio.

Death at a Highland Wedding is the fourth book in Kelley Armstrong's Rip Through Time series and is such a delight to read. When you combine time travel and a love of Sherlock Holmes that predates the detective's creation, you get some of Kelley Armstrong's strongest, most entertaining stories. Don't read this one as a stand-alone, the jokes are funnier if you know what has gone before...

Kate Handford does a phenomenal job narrating this fourth book. She brings each character to life and makes it so easy to picture this story in the mind's eye.

As the title says, someone dies at a Scottish Highland wedding and Detective Mallory Atkinson has to worry her identity as Catriona Mitchel will be uncovered. Oh, and it looks like there is a murder to solve.

Each and every book in the Rip Through Time series has been a delight to read, and honestly, re-read (a lot).

Thank you St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book.

Here’s a review you can use or adapt:

⸻

Audiobook Review: Death at a Highland Wedding by Kelley Armstrong, narrated by Kate Handford

I’m a little obsessed with this series. Death at a Highland Wedding is the fourth book in Kelley Armstrong’s Rip Through Time series, and every time I pick one up, I fall even more in love with the characters and world she’s created. These books are such a comforting escape—full of rich detail, clever plotting, and a cast of characters you genuinely want to spend time with.

I absolutely love the dynamic between Mallory and Gray. The tension between them is so well-written—intelligent, slow-burn, and emotionally complex. That said, I’m really hoping we see some real movement or resolution in their relationship soon. The “will they, won’t they” tension has been great, but I think it’s time for a shift.

This series reminds me a bit of Outlander, but without the heavy romance and explicit scenes. Personally, I prefer that balance, and it’s actually why I didn’t finish Outlander. While the time periods differ, there’s a similar mix of time-slip intrigue, historical atmosphere, and character-driven mystery that works really well here.

Kelley Armstrong is such a talented writer. Her pacing, historical detail, and dry humor make these books so easy to get lost in. The mystery in this installment was solid and layered—there are always more secrets to uncover than you expect, and the setting in the Scottish Highlands added even more charm and atmosphere.

I switched between the ebook and audiobook and enjoyed both, but Kate Handford’s narration really brought the characters and world to life. She’s been narrating the series from the start, and her performance is consistent, expressive, and perfectly suited to the tone of the story.

If you love time travel, historical mysteries, and strong, slow-burning character dynamics, you need to read this series. Death at a Highland Wedding is another great entry, and I’m already counting the days until the next one.

Another great story from Kelley Armstrong. I love this series and I love watching Mallory solve the murders without our modern day technologies. I like that we got to learn more about Hugh and his family in this installment.

Kate Handford did a great job narrating the story.

I really enjoy this series, so I assumed I’d like this installment, but this was really the perfect time for the cast of characters to go to a new, fun setting.
I will admit, I really hated the animal cruelty aspects of this one, but they’re not so prominent that I couldn’t listen. And I really enjoy the social implications of marriage in this time period sprinkled throughout. Kind of sad to acknowledge that women have always been pawns and property… but alas. I love the tension with Duncan, but I really want to shake him at times for not reading signals or communicating.
This installment really had a lot of moral grey questioning. It was really interesting and enjoyable. I look forward to continuing.
The audio narration was excellently done as well.

Death at a Highland Wedding is the fourth installment in The Rip Through Time series. I suggest reading/listening to these books in order you miss a lot in the characters backstories and although each book is its own story they tie together overall through the daily life and constantly evolving character dynamics. With all that said this I installment is absolutely amazing. And I fully enjoyed this rare look into McCreadie’s history and we gain a great deal of understanding into not only his love for Isla but other events that have shaped his life. We also see Duncan and Mallory in much ever closer to admitting they care for each other in more then a boss/employer way and have romantic feeling. And alas we are left waiting for the next book to find out how and when that will happen n I’m dying right now. I can’t wait to see them finally give in to those feelings. And then we of course have another murder to solve and this one has a breathtaking backdrop of the highlands which made me feel like I could step into the book it was vividly written and beautifully described. The story has the whole team working together as new revelations come at every step both personal and professional for many involved. Definitely a masterful addition to the series! I highly recommend it and the narrator did an amazing job bring this book to life!