On the run to a safe haven, Divorcee Jude left London following the tragic deaths of her parents. Her flight ends in the small village of Wigtown, Scotland, at Lowland Glen Books, a dusty and disorganized place she located while on vacation with her ex-husband the summer before. Jude is a natural organizer, so she's drawn to the untidy bookstore and its unique owner, Lowell, who is in desperate need of an assistant. Lowell also provides Jude with accommodations on his personal property. Kirk Cottage is located behind the old church and alongside the cemetery. Jude feels it's a place she can settle into as she starts making new friends in the village. It's too bad not everyone agrees with her.

As Jude starts sorting, cataloging and pricing the hodgepodge of books stacked in every possible space, she discovers written messages in some of the books relating to odd misdeeds from the town's past. Could there be any truth to the veiled accusations made by the deceased owner of the books? Both Jude and Lowell are anxious to investigate, but there are others who will do anything to keep the past buried. Adding to the drama and suspense is the surprise appearance of a young woman claiming to be Lowell's daughter. Soon echoes from the past and mysterious occurrences in the present are affecting both Lowell and Jude. Will 30 years of secrets finally be revealed? Moreover, will justice finally prevail?

QUIET NEIGHBORS by Catriona McPherson is a superb mystery/thriller. The tidbits of information about Jude's recent past, as well as Lowell's early past, were so expertly interspersed throughout the storyline, I found myself constantly speculating about them and quickly turning pages to discover the outcome. I was delighted with the uncommon locale and the distinctive characters, whose interaction added an extra dimension to the mystery. I have always enjoyed reading Ms. McPherson's novels and QUIET NEIGHBORS is another classic example of her writing expertise. The beginning quickly grabbed my interest and the intensity never let up until the surprising conclusion.