⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 Stars (Excellent)
Setting: Victorian Era Scotland
Genre: Time Travel; Fantasy (not YA, but reads like one)

Death at a Highland Wedding is my first foray into Kelley Armstrong’s time travel mystery series, and while I appreciated the originality of the premise—a modern-day homicide detective trapped in 19th-century Scotland—I had mixed feelings about its execution.

Set amidst the lush scenery of the Scottish Highlands during a tense family wedding, the novel follows Mallory Atkinson, now living as housemaid Catriona Mitchell. She’s made a life for herself in Victorian Scotland and formed genuine relationships, especially with undertaker Dr. Duncan Gray. However, the time travel element didn’t quite work for me—it felt more whimsical than grounded, which sometimes pulled me out of the story.

Armstrong’s writing is atmospheric and immersive, but occasionally too descriptive in places that didn’t advance the plot. Some passages felt like detours rather than contributions to the mystery, slowing the pace just enough to notice.

That said, the mystery itself is well-crafted. The tension between the McCreadies and Cranstons, the eerie discovery of an injured wildcat, and the layers of secrecy surrounding the groom added depth and intrigue. Mallory and Dr. Gray make a sharp and likable investigative team, and their chemistry is a highlight.

Overall, Death at a Highland Wedding offers a unique blend of historical mystery and light fantasy, wrapped in a vividly drawn setting. While not without its flaws, it’s a compelling read that should appeal to fans of slower-burning mysteries with a rich sense of time and place. #netgalley #deathatahighlandwedding #booked_this_weekend

I'm not sure what made me start this series, the premiss is something that would catch my eye but it's not in the genre I typically read but for some reason I tried it and I have been hooked since. In fact I love it so much I own the book and the audio book as well so I can listen to it in the future. Seeing this book I knew I would read it. I will be reading every book in this series till it is finished. Every book before this was a 5 (with the excretion of one novella which I am in the process of reading right now..spoiler it will be a 5 star as well). And this book as you can see is a 5 as well. It would actually be higher if I was able to.

This review will contain spoilers from previous books** Mallory and Gray as well as Gray's sister and best friend who is the brother of the soon to be bride travel to a wedding. No one wants Gray's friend McCreadie at the wedding except his sister and that's enough for him. When they arrive it seem's that McCreadies sister's soon to be husband isn't happy with their match and isn't a fan of most people, but they wedding will go on. Before the wedding can even happen there is a death and then another that soon makes it apparent these deaths may both be murder.

Mallory and Gray can't help but get involved to help find the murderer and prove innocence. While at the same time finding more evil deeds and maybe hoping to finally get McCreadie and Gray's sister to admit how they feel about each other? This book is filled with so much we get a pull from the present and some other moves forward that I have been hoping for. This book is written so well just like the others. The storytelling is superb and I am all in in this world Kelley Armstrong has created.

The mystery has twists and turns and I loved every minute of it. I also can't get enough of all of these characters and with each book we keep getting just that....more. I didn't want to stop this book I could have finished it it one sitting and now I am left waiting for the next book. I can't recommend this series enough, if you haven't read this series and want to read this book start from the beginning, you really need to. If you have read every book before this I can't see why you are not as excited as I was to get this. Now I just hope the next book or novella isn't too far away. I'll be here very impatiently waiting!

-I saw this on Netgalley and freaked out and proceeded to stalk my emails for an approval!!

*Thank you Netgally, St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio for this ARC copy!!!!

The 4th book in The Rip Through Time series is almost here!!!!! 🖤 Death At A Highland Wedding publishes next month on 20May2025. It picks up where Disturbing The Dead left off. The gang is on their way to the Scottish Highlands for McCreadie’s sister’s wedding. The story includes highland cats, highland coos, and of course a murder. I loved this book and its addition to the series. If you have already read the other books in this series, then you should love this one too. If you have not read this series, then take this as your sign to add it to your TBR!

Kelley Armstrong continues to impress with 𝗗𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗛 𝗔𝗧 𝗔 𝗛𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗟𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗪𝗘𝗗𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚, the fourth installment in the 𝗥𝗶𝗽 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀. Mallory Atkinson, once a modern-day homicide detective, has settled into her unexpected life in Victorian Scotland with surprising ease. Now fully immersed in her role as an assistant to undertaker Dr. Duncan Gray, Mallory’s investigative instincts remain sharp—and vital. When the trio travels to the Scottish Highlands for Detective Hugh McCreadie’s sister’s wedding, tensions rise within the opulent yet secretive Cranston estate. A disturbing discovery involving a trapped wildcat sets off alarm bells, and when a guest turns up dead, Mallory and Gray must act quickly before another life is lost. This installment blends country house mystery with slow burn romance and a rich dose of character development. Armstrong’s ability to weave historical detail, suspense, and emotional nuance keeps readers hooked. With surprising twists and a simmering romantic thread, this is a must-read for fans of historical mystery with a touch of the paranormal.

Death at a Highland Wedding (A Rip Through Time #4) by Kelley Armstrong. This book can be enjoyed as a standalone mystery or as part of the series. I was soooo looking forward to reading this book and it did not let me down!

This book was so good and I did not want it to end!!!!

This was such a wonderful book! I loved every minute of it! I found it to be truly captivating and a wonderful story! I need the next book to be released soon because I'm ready to go back!

The world the author created is absolutely fascinating! I love the characters and the blend of modern culture into 1869 Scotland life. This book is filled with heart!

I loved the narration by Kate Handford! I loved how she brought this book to life!

I highly recommend reading Death at a Highland Wedding. I’ll be (in)patiently waiting for the next book!!!!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Death at a Highland Wedding (A Rip Through Time #4) by Kelley Armstrong
Narrated by Kate Handford
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Genre: Historical Fiction | Sci Fi & Fantasy
Expected Publication Date: May 20, 2025

I thoroughly enjoyed this latest installment in the “Rip Through Time” series, especially with Kate Hanford’s continually excellent narration! This time, the gang attended McCreadie’s sister’s wedding in the Highlands. We learned more background info for some of the characters and watched several relationships continue their progressions. I don’t know where this series is going to wind up. Will Mallory stay in the past forever or will something happen to bring her back home? I’ll stay tuned to find out!
*Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley

I did not read the other books in the series before requesting and listening to this one. There was just enough background information that I felt that I wasn’t missing too much by not reading the other books, but this one got me excited to read the other ones. This series is so unique with time travel mystery in romance. It’s really well executed though, and I could not put it down. I can’t wait to go back and read the other books in the series and I have already started recommending this series to people with just reading this book in the middle.

This particular book hits very dark topics, so it probably sounds weird to say that is my kind of fun read. More intelligent than a cozy or a romcom, while having the best qualities of both. I'll definately be seeking out the rest of the series and giving them a read.

Another amazing read from Kelley Armstrong! Death at a Highland Wedding, book 4 in the Rip Through Time series, gives us another mystery to be solved! It was Gripping! It was Twisty! It was Interesting! It was chilling, shocking and impossible to put down. Kelley Armstrong is one of those authors who consistently gives books that are exactly my reading type! There are new characters. There is more information brought us about our main characters. Death at a Highland Wedding is a well rounded, amazing read!

I was able to read and listen to the audio of Death at a Highland Wedding and I continue to adore the narrator as well!

Thank you Netgalley, to Kelley Armstrong and her publisher for allowing me the opportunity to read an ARC of "Death at a Highland Wedding".

Oh my gosh this one was so good. I love Isla and McCreadie relationship and watching how they are with each other. This was an interesting read and the fact that everyone's relationships are growing and progressing. The mystery revealed in this book was just crazy. The very ending was so good I love how everything turned out. I also loved meeting McCreadie's family and friends of him and Duncan's school age.

Thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook.

This is the only book I've read in this series, but that needs to change ASAP.

The author gave a brief summary that was very helpful, but even with the way the book is written, you never feel lost. The dynamic between Mallory and Gray? Fantastic. The time travelling aspect? So well done.

All of the characters are so fully developed without it being too much. They evolved naturally, and while the author guided you, she gave you room to make your own assumptions and ideas about the cast. I truly loved this book, and cannot wait to go back and read the others!

I just finished Death at a Highland Wedding, and I’m hooked on this series! Even though this is book four, I had no problem jumping in and following along—and now I’m excited to go back and read the earlier books.

Set in the Victorian era, this time travel mystery was well-paced with an engaging storyline, vivid characters, and just the right amount of plot twists to keep things interesting. I especially loved that I couldn’t figure out who the killer was until nearly the end—Kelley Armstrong does a great job keeping the suspense high without giving too much away.

The audiobook narration was strong and easy to follow. The narrator handled different voices well, especially when switching to male characters, which made the story even more immersive.

Feisty, smart, and endlessly resourceful—the FMC is one for the ages. I love a strong female lead, and she delivered in spades. She’s sharp without being cold, curious without being reckless, and I loved watching her piece the mystery together.

Overall, this was a solid and satisfying mystery that pulled me in and left me wanting more. If you enjoy cozy crime with smart twists and a good dose of atmosphere, this is one to add to your list!

This is another novel in the Ripped Through Time series by Kelley Armstrong. I enjoy this series very much. The main romantic couple is still circling each other, so there is more intimacy through talking than physical touch. I appreciate the consideration of what it is like to be living in Victorian Scotland and what it is like to be a biracial man in that society. The main female character also shows quite a bit of emotional growth. I listened to this ARC, but I did read the first couple of books in the series. The story is enjoyable both ways. The audiobook has an excellent reader.

I think I’m ready to declare A Rip Through Time my favorite series of all time. HUGE thank you to Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio for the early copy of the latest installment (and for sending me the first book back in the day!!!)

Here’s why I’m calling it my fave:
* I’d be more devastated if this series ended than I would for literally any other.
* The genre mashup (historical mystery + time travel + romance) is unique and so compelling.
* Each book is a strong standalone mystery.
* Every time I finish one, I want to immediately reread the whole series

I could happily read 12 of these a year and never get tired. I’m also wildly grateful that Kelley Armstrong has been releasing novellas in between the full-length novels — what a gift!!

The latest installment, Murder at a Highland Wedding, is just as strong as the first three. It left me desperate for the next installment… so much so that I honestly considered DMing the author to beg for the manuscript (and I still might!).

If you haven’t started this series yet, I’m begging you to start ASAP. If you’ve already started, keep going (and don’t skip the novellas!).

Audio: Absolutely phenomenal. Kate Handford is the perfect narrator for this series. She IS Mallory to me. I especially love how she seamlessly switches between Mallory’s modern Canadian accent and Katrina’s 19th-century Scottish brogue. Highly recommend the audiobooks for all four books!

Kelley Armstrong is one of my favorite authors and across so many genres everything she writes just works for me. This is one of my favorite series (and not just because I share a name with the protagonist), but it is fun and full of excellent murder mysteries, what more could a girl ask for? Mallory and friends go to McCreadie’s sister’s wedding in the highlands, but things are set off course when the groom’s best friend is found dead. Despite not officially being on the case when it is clear there will be no other real investigation Mallory, Duncan, and Hugh all work hard to try to track the real killer. I liked that Mallory and Duncan both got closer to something and further as some real barriers/drawbacks were considered in other ways and of course some miscommunication hindered them. I am beyond ready for them to realize how much they care for each other, but I can wait a little longer I suppose. I listened to the audiobook for the first third of this one before I became too impatient and had to just binge the rest with kindle. The narrator was awesome and I really enjoyed the audiobook, I just read faster than I listen.

Death at a Highland Wedding is an absolute gem and, without a doubt, my favorite installment in the A Rip Through Time series so far! This book has everything I adore in a novel — time travel, a gripping detective mystery, swoon-worthy romance, and, of course, the allure of the Victorian era. Kelley Armstrong has truly outdone herself with this one, weaving together a thrilling narrative that leaves you both on the edge of your seat and yearning for more.

While this is book four in the series, you simply must read them in order to truly appreciate the full depth of the characters and their emotional journey. Thankfully, there’s a lovely recap at the start of this book, which I thoroughly enjoyed. It reminded me of why I’m so invested in these characters. From the very first page, you’re drawn back into their world, and it’s impossible not to become emotionally entangled in their lives.

What really makes Death at a Highland Wedding stand out is the impeccable tension that Kelley Armstrong has so masterfully crafted throughout the series. Each book builds upon the last, and by this point, you can’t help but feel like you’re part of the family — you want these characters to find happiness, to solve the mystery, to get their happily-ever-afters. The stakes are high, and the emotional pull is real. Armstrong’s writing is so vivid that I could practically picture each scene as if I were right there beside the characters, living their adventure.

Now, let’s talk about the audiobook — WOW. While I absolutely adore reading the book in its e-book format, listening to Kate Handford narrate this story takes the experience to an entirely new level. Her voice brings each character to life in such a dynamic and engaging way, I found myself hanging on every word. Her ability to convey the intensity, the mystery, and the romance makes this audiobook an absolute must-listen.

I wholeheartedly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, thrilling mysteries, and heartwarming romance. Kelley Armstrong’s storytelling will hook you from the very first page, and you’ll find yourself desperately waiting for the next book in the series. Trust me, you do not want to miss out on this incredible journey.

My first experience to both the author and the series and I am excited to explore the rest of the series. See the video for my full thoughts in 90 seconds!

Initial thought after finishing -- "WHERE IS THIS LETTER?! Do I need to shake down a Victorian maid MYSELF? Come ON! Mallory! Why aren't you sleuthing this thing out??!" AND I will always do this series as an audiobook from now on.

Okay. This might be my favorite of all the Rip Through Time novels. It was a twisty mystery, but I'm not in it for that. I'm shipping Mallory & Grey and Ilsa & Hugh and THANK GOD there was finally enough movement/flirty banter to sustain me in this one..... but this damn letter. I'm still thinking about it. Now I'm hooked for book 5 - just to see if she ever gets it!

The gang is out of their comfort zone/London homebase and on the road for Hugh's sister Fiona's highland wedding, when the best man gets murdered. There are a lot of red herrings, suspects and dangerous situations to face.

Isla is finally out of mourning and Hugh is ready to make his move! Grey is sorting through is feelings for Mallory as well and seems oblivious to the fact that she loves him (even though she's staying in Victorian England instead of her OWN body in present day Canada?! How expensive are those medical bills for her poor parents?!) Duncan Grey seems to be a touch autistic in his processing of sarcasm, facial expressions, feelings etc. ..." WHICH IS WHY WE NEED TO KNOW WHAT HIS LETTER TO MALLORY SAID!! AHHHHHHHHHH"

Audiobook was awesome. Narrator superb, all the voices were perfect. Kept my interest even with all the characters to keep track of.

I really enjoyed listening to this story. I'm not big on time travel but this was done where it was like any other historical mystery. The only exception is she knows the future. It was a good mystery. The narrator did a great job.

Gripping, interesting, chilling, shocking and hard to put down! I fell in love with the characters of Mallory Atkinson and Dr. Duncan Gray in the first book in the series, A Rip Through Time! I continue to adore them and the supporting characters in this book. If you have not read that book or this series, I highly recommend it. I find not only this book but the other books in the series to be captivating, wonderfully written, atmospheric, thrilling and mysterious.

A brief background on the characters - Mallory Atkinson was a detective in Vancouver in modern times but found herself being transported 150 years into the past to Victorian Scotland and into the body of Catriona Mitchel, a housemaid for Dr. Duncan Gray. Lucky for her she found herself being transported into Duncan's home as he is an undertaker and works closely with Detective Hugh McCreadie. She was able to confide in them and utilize her modern-day detective skills to assist them in solving crimes.

In Death at a Highland Wedding, sees Mallory/Catriona, Gray, and McCreadie traveling to the highlands for a wedding at the Cranston estate. The grounds are beautiful but immediately Mallory senses something isn't right when a cat found in a trap has injuries that do not match up with the trap. Something is afoot and the groom is acting in strange and odd fashion. When a dead body is found, the trio must work fast to kind the killer!

As with the other books, I loved the setting. I also loved the atmosphere that oozed from this book. The Scottish Highlands, the forest at night, the tension in the air, and the mystery surrounding the cat's injuries and the murdered guest, made for a gripping mystery. I also love the dynamic between the characters. Mallory continues to try to behave and fit in as a woman would in Victorian times. Plus, her interactions with Gray have me wanting to shove them together and say 'come on already' as their chemistry is off the charts!

I love Kelley Armstrong's writing and her use of place and time in this series. She nails the Victorian settings and feel of the book. I also love the dialogue and how Mallory can utilize her current detective skills with the skills of the investigators of that time. The mystery was intriguing and had me wondering whodunit the entire book. The final reveal was nicely done and well played out. While I enjoy the mysteries and crimes that are investigated in this series, it is the relationships and characters that keep me coming back. Kelley Armstrong has created characters that I care about and root for.

Riveting, chilling, atmospheric, gripping and hard to put down!

*I had the pleasure of having the physical book (Thank you to Kat White at St. Martin's Press), the e-book and the audiobook which made for a lovely and completely enjoyable reading experience. The narration of the audiobook was wonderful and so well done.