The Wolf Tree by Laura McCluskey

I rushed through The Wolf Tree, caught up with the eerie atmosphere of Eilean Eadar, a small island off the Scottish coast and the isolation of its island inhabitants. Detective Inspectors Georgina (George) Lennox and Richard Stewart are sent to investigate the death of eighteen old Alan Ferguson. Initially it had looked as if he had committed suicide by throwing himself off the top of the island’s lighthouse. However the postmortem results show some anomalies. Arriving at the island, the detectives are met with suspicion from many of the islanders. News travels fast and even the children turn away from them. What are the secrets that are hidden in this close-knit community?

McLusky is adept at building up suspense, ensuring that the reader is caught up in the gripping story. There are moments of terror throughout the book – a figure with a wolf face peers in at George late at night and there are frightening noises that sound like wolves howling. Many of the houses have strange symbols above their doorways and there is an atmosphere of distrust of the police. The local priest is ever present, ensuring that he is with each person that the detectives question. A local woman who knows everything about everyone is friendly and helpful and wants George to investigate the disappearance of three lighthouse keepers many years ago. Is there a connection between the death of the young man and their disappearance?

George is still recovering from a brutal attack and is relying on strong pain medication to keep going. Even though her boss and fellow DI Richie are afraid that she cannot cope, she continues to rely on her impulsive nature to follow danger, rushing after the figure in the wolf mask without backup and entering a wild wood alone in the darkness.

Although there are clues scattered throughout the book, the final denouement is still shocking.

The Wolf Tree is engrossing and is sure to appeal to readers who love a Scottish island background, some frightening superstitions and a gripping mystery. Highly recommended.

Themes: Detectives, Scotland, Superstitions, Isolation.

Pat Pledger