One of several quiet British police procedural series that I enjoy is the Scottish one starring Inspector Munro, by Pete Brassett. I have to admit, though, that I have trouble telling them apart from the Inspector Skelgill series set across the border in England. The central figures and supporting casts are highly similar, but I like both of them.
In Ruse, the latest Inspector Munro book, we find Jim Munro newly retired, but still meddling in investigations. This is not resented at all by his old team of detectives, who are happy for his input.
Tam McDonnell has retired from his career and bought a pub, but isn’t doing very well. Then a young man approaches him and offers his services as a DJ. He promises to deliver a big crowd for one night, in return for a percentage of the night’s takings. It all seems to go splendidly, until a young woman’s body is found in a restroom, stabbed to death.
The investigation will uncover links to drug dealing, Meanwhile, there’s been a string of robberies in high end shops in the town of Ayr. The proprietors find themselves suddenly unconscious, to discover on awakening that valuable goods are missing. In time, a link between the murder and the thefts will become apparent.
Ruse is standard Brit, Midsomer-esque police procedural stuff – the gruff older detective showing his younger subordinates the way. But it’s solid standard stuff too, well-written, reassuring and fun. I enjoyed it. No major cautions for subject matter.
Hi Pete,
I’m Jessica, the organizer of the Oakland/Berkeley New Fiction & Emerging Authors Book Club, a dedicated community of readers who love atmospheric mysteries, sharp dialogue, and unforgettable detective duos.
Your Munro & West Mysteries immediately stood out to us the wry intelligence of Munro, the fresh perspective of West, and the tension-filled investigations make your series exactly the kind of engaging storytelling our members adore. The blend of Scottish grit, psychological depth, and dark humor creates the perfect atmosphere for lively discussion.
We would be honored to feature your series at one of our upcoming meetings. As part of our book club spotlight, we offer:
🔍 A thoughtful, mystery-loving audience who deeply engages with plot, character development, and investigative nuance.
🌟 Promotion of your work across our platforms and reader network.
💬 Optional participation, whether live (virtually) or through member-submitted Q&A.
📝 Honest Goodreads and Amazon reviews from our members following the event to help expand your readership.
We’d be thrilled to showcase Munro & West and introduce more readers to your distinctive and compelling mysteries.
Warm regards,
Jessica
Organizer, Oakland/Berkeley New Fiction & Emerging Authors Book Club
I’m afraid you have the wrong author.