Versed in Murder

A McLaren Mystery

By: Jo A. Hiestand

Narrated by: Callum Hale

Bluegrass band Moorland Grass is on the verge of turning pro and hitting the music world like a cymbal crash. But the death of their fiddler, Dylan Ingram, has thrown a sour note into the band's future as well as thrown the lads' working relationships off-key. Now, one year after the murder, former police detective Michael McLaren is asked to investigate.

As McLaren pokes into the case, he hears about sharp words and flat expectations, and gets an earful of anger—some coming from the band members, some from Dylan's family. And there's that strange black car that attempts to run McLaren off the road...or worse.

The case comes together with help of a piece of music. But the finale nearly decomposes one night in a desperate run across the moor—and threatens to take McLaren along in that fade out.

©2025 Jo A Hiestand (P)2025 Jo A Hiestand

Callum Hale has done it again

A bluegrass band is at the pinnacle of reaching the golden ring, when their fiddler is murdered. A year later, McLaren is asked to investigate. Both the band members and the fiddler’s family are furious he’s investigating. Who is hiding key clues? The more McLaren investigates, the more his life is in danger. With a piece of music as a guide, will McLaren unmask the killer before it’s too late?

Callum Hale is one of the best narrators I’ve ever had the pleasure to listen to. He takes this complex mystery and brings it to life. His ability to add just the right amount of tension, intrigue, and emotion to this mystery is unparallel. The complexity of the plot comes across, and I was transfixed while listening. If you love mystery audiobooks, this is a must-listen.

My Rating: 5+ stars

mystery

Great mystery book. Definitely get syou thinking of what's going to happen next. Very well done. 5 stars

lost talent

This was a suspenseful listen. I never figured out whodunit. When the reveal came , I was angry and disgusted. Taking a life for such petty reasons (or any reason) is just wrong. I followed along, but admit I got lost a few times. I voluntarily listened to a free copy of this and am giving an honest review. The narrator did a great job bringing it to life.