Step into the charmingly quirky world of the ScotShop Mystery series, where a Vermont shop owner teams up with a kilt-clad ghost to solve crimes! Penned by Fran Stewart, this cozy mystery series blends small-town charm, a touch of the supernatural, and clever whodunits that keep readers guessing. With its humorous take on sleuthing and a 14th-century Scotsman stealing the show, ScotShop Mystery is a delightful escape for fans of lighthearted intrigue.
Set in the picturesque town of Hamelin, Vermont, the series follows Peggy Winn, who runs a Scottish-themed shop filled with tartans and bagpipe dreams. Her unexpected partner? A ghostly Scotsman named Dirk, who brings old-world wit and a knack for spotting clues. Together, they unravel murders with a cozy flair, making this series a hidden gem in the mystery genre.
How ScotShop Mystery Began
Fran Stewart, a late-blooming author who published her first novel at 55, crafted the ScotShop Mystery series as a love letter to cozy mysteries with a twist. Known for her Biscuit McKee series, Stewart drew inspiration from her passion for animals and quirky characters, infusing ScotShop with humor and heart. The idea of a ghostly sidekick emerged from her desire to blend the supernatural with grounded sleuthing, creating a fresh spin on the genre. Published by PenguinRandomHouse, the series debuted in 2015, captivating readers with its unique premise and Stewart’s knack for storytelling.
The Heart of ScotShop Mystery
The ScotShop Mystery series spans three books, each a cozy puzzle wrapped in Vermont’s charm. A Wee Murder in My Shop (2015) kicks off the adventure when Peggy buys a tartan shawl in Scotland, unknowingly bringing home Dirk, a 14th-century ghost. When her ex-boyfriend is found dead in her shop, Peggy and Dirk team up to clear her cousin’s name, unraveling a web of secrets. A Wee Dose of Death (2016) sees the duo investigating a professor’s murder in a mountain cabin, with ecological intrigue and a dash of danger. A Wee Homicide in the Hotel (2017) takes place during Hamelin’s Highland Festival, where a missing athlete leads to a murder mystery amid caber tossing and bagpipes.
The series shines with its blend of cozy mystery staples—small-town settings, quirky characters, and clever plots—with a supernatural twist. Dirk’s old-world Scottish dialect adds humor, though some readers find it tricky. Themes of friendship, resilience, and community thread through the stories, while Hamelin’s Scottish flair, from tartan shops to Highland games, creates a vivid backdrop. Stewart’s animal advocacy also shines, with proceeds supporting the Humane Society and a lovable Scottie dog, Scamp, stealing scenes.
Why ScotShop Mystery Resonates
ScotShop Mystery may not be a household name, but its niche charm has won a loyal following among cozy mystery fans. The series’ blend of humor, heart, and a ghostly gimmick sets it apart, offering a fresh take on a beloved genre. Readers praise Stewart’s ability to craft engaging puzzles and memorable characters, from Peggy’s determined sleuthing to Dirk’s endearing confusion with the modern world. Its focus on community and compassion, paired with light supernatural elements, makes it a cozy comfort read that leaves fans eager for more.
- Publication Years: 2015–2017
- Number of Books: 3
- Genre: Cozy Amateur Sleuth Mystery
- Setting: Hamelin, Vermont
Ready to cozy up with a tartan-clad mystery? Grab A Wee Murder in My Shop and dive into the ScotShop Mystery series’ delightful world of ghosts, clues, and Vermont charm!