The Wolf Tree

If you enjoy mysteries and police procedurals that take place in an isolated setting with great world-building, then look no further than The Wolf Tree by Laura McCluskey. Eilean Eadar is an island off the coast of Scotland. Detective Inspector Georgina (George) Lennox and her partner, Detective Inspector Richie Stewart are sent from Glasgow to investigate the death of Alan Ferguson whose funeral was two weeks ago.

He had fallen from the top of the island’s decommissioned lighthouse.

George is back from leave after a devastating injury during a case eight months ago. She’s happy to be off desk duty and working a case in the field again. She and Richie arrive on the island during a storm. They’re met by a couple of friendly islanders, but mainly, they’re met by hostility. The islanders seem determined to undermine their investigation and the local priest shows up at many of the interviews. What secrets will be uncovered?

George has clawed her way up the ranks at work quickly. She tends to act on impulse, and often without regard to her own safety. While George is sometimes blunt and to the point, Richie is more personable when interviewing potential witnesses. He loves his wife and daughters. He can be candid, but he’s better at picking his battles than George. The interactions between George and Richie are fascinating to watch as they unfold.

Filled with atmosphere and suspense, this story immediately captured my interest. From the locals who don’t like strangers arriving on the island to the folklore, traditions, and sounds of wolves, George feels something is off with Alan’s death as well as the people themselves. The worldbuilding is excellent, from the storms to the village to the forest, the details are phenomenal. While the book is somewhat slow-paced at times, it managed to keep my interest and engagement.

The plot is full of twists and turns with several surprises along the way including the story of three lighthouse keepers who disappeared in 1919. While the reveal and ending are a little fast, they include some suspenseful and action-packed moments. Themes of isolation, tradition, self-sufficiency, community bonds, and more are skillfully woven throughout the novel.

Overall, this was a compelling, creative, disturbing, and suspenseful story with good characterization, and a great plot that includes solid procedural details. Those who enjoy mysteries with atmospheric worldbuilding and hostile witnesses will likely enjoy this novel as well as those who enjoy locked room mysteries. Will there be a second novel featuring George and Richie?

PENGUIN GROUP Putnam – G.P. Putnam’s Sons and Laura McCluskey provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for February 11, 2025.