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Antique Hunter’s #3
The Antique Hunter's: Murder at the Castle: The Lockwood Antique Hunter's Agency Return For A Third Time In This Exciting Cosy Crime Series
A treasure to die for?
In their most gripping case yet, Freya Lockwood and Aunt Carole are back in a race against time set in the haunting Scottish countryside. The heart-pounding and compelling third instalment in this cosy crime series, perfect for fans of the Antiques Roadshow, with the suspense and thrill of Knives Out.
A mission to recover stolen art turns dire when one of Freya and Aunt Carole’s team members, Bella, disappears into the shadows of the frozen, snow-tipped and mysterious Scottish hills. And when a discovery of ancient Scottish silverware is linked to the murder of a laird – with their colleague as the prime suspect – the intrigue deepens.
Surrounded by snow and secrecy, they must unravel a cunning plot and find their friend before isolation – or the killer – claims them all.
Where is Bella now, and is she safe?
* * *
Praise for C. L.
‘A bold, bright and delightful jaunt back to the golden age of detective fiction. Expertly plotted and skilfully written, with suspicious characters, devious twists and evocative locations’ – Janice Hallett, author of The Appeal
‘It’s a delicious read – packed with fascinating details in a picture-perfect setting. Who could resist a treasure hunt with murder at its core?’ – S. J. Bennett, author of The Windsor Knot
In their most gripping case yet, Freya Lockwood and Aunt Carole are back in a race against time set in the haunting Scottish countryside. The heart-pounding and compelling third instalment in this cosy crime series, perfect for fans of the Antiques Roadshow, with the suspense and thrill of Knives Out.
A mission to recover stolen art turns dire when one of Freya and Aunt Carole’s team members, Bella, disappears into the shadows of the frozen, snow-tipped and mysterious Scottish hills. And when a discovery of ancient Scottish silverware is linked to the murder of a laird – with their colleague as the prime suspect – the intrigue deepens.
Surrounded by snow and secrecy, they must unravel a cunning plot and find their friend before isolation – or the killer – claims them all.
Where is Bella now, and is she safe?
* * *
Praise for C. L.
‘A bold, bright and delightful jaunt back to the golden age of detective fiction. Expertly plotted and skilfully written, with suspicious characters, devious twists and evocative locations’ – Janice Hallett, author of The Appeal
‘It’s a delicious read – packed with fascinating details in a picture-perfect setting. Who could resist a treasure hunt with murder at its core?’ – S. J. Bennett, author of The Windsor Knot
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 12, 2026
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March 17, 2026
Cosy at the Castle
A review of the NetGalley ARC eBook of the Atria Books hardcover/eBook/audiobook to be published March 17, 2026.
It was a bit odd getting an offer on March 11, 2026 from Atria Books/NetGalley for this book to be published on March 17, 2026 which allowed for only 6 days to read it. But it also came with free downloads of the first 2 books in the series, so it was an offer I couldn't refuse. It became a rush read to the finish 😅. The limited time did not allow for any proper reading of the previous books.
This is not recommended as a standalone as there is quite a lot of backstory from the first 2 books which is constantly referred to. The fates of earlier characters are also revealed, so it is a spoiler for the earlier stories. I thought I was piecing most of it together but reveals kept surprising me throughout. It didn't help that the present day characters are also regularly hiding information from each other about identities and motives. So it was often a frustrating read.
On the positive side, the premise of a group of antique hunters becoming involved with chasing down forgeries and stolen antiques is a great one for a cosy mystery. The central setting of a castle in Scotland made for an atmospheric locale even if the regular consumption of shortbread, scones and hot toddies was a bit over the top. Still there were some delightful characters here, especially Aunt Carole who was the regular comic relief and the go-getter who both mentors and motivates her niece Freya Lockwood forward in the adventure.
My thanks to Atria Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this advance ARC copy for which I provide this honest review.
Trivia and Links
Cara Miller is the author of the Antique Hunter's (2024-ongoing) series of cozy mystery novels, of which the first The Antique Hunter's Guide to Murder (2024) is currently the most popular on Goodreads. Her knowledge of antiques comes through the connection of her mother Judith H. Miller (1951-2023) for whom she worked as editorial assistant on various editions of the Antiques Price Guide 2008 and as a researcher for the Judith Miller Antiques Hunter's Guide to Europe (2001).
A review of the NetGalley ARC eBook of the Atria Books hardcover/eBook/audiobook to be published March 17, 2026.
It was a bit odd getting an offer on March 11, 2026 from Atria Books/NetGalley for this book to be published on March 17, 2026 which allowed for only 6 days to read it. But it also came with free downloads of the first 2 books in the series, so it was an offer I couldn't refuse. It became a rush read to the finish 😅. The limited time did not allow for any proper reading of the previous books.
This is not recommended as a standalone as there is quite a lot of backstory from the first 2 books which is constantly referred to. The fates of earlier characters are also revealed, so it is a spoiler for the earlier stories. I thought I was piecing most of it together but reveals kept surprising me throughout. It didn't help that the present day characters are also regularly hiding information from each other about identities and motives. So it was often a frustrating read.
On the positive side, the premise of a group of antique hunters becoming involved with chasing down forgeries and stolen antiques is a great one for a cosy mystery. The central setting of a castle in Scotland made for an atmospheric locale even if the regular consumption of shortbread, scones and hot toddies was a bit over the top. Still there were some delightful characters here, especially Aunt Carole who was the regular comic relief and the go-getter who both mentors and motivates her niece Freya Lockwood forward in the adventure.
My thanks to Atria Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this advance ARC copy for which I provide this honest review.
Trivia and Links
Cara Miller is the author of the Antique Hunter's (2024-ongoing) series of cozy mystery novels, of which the first The Antique Hunter's Guide to Murder (2024) is currently the most popular on Goodreads. Her knowledge of antiques comes through the connection of her mother Judith H. Miller (1951-2023) for whom she worked as editorial assistant on various editions of the Antiques Price Guide 2008 and as a researcher for the Judith Miller Antiques Hunter's Guide to Europe (2001).
March 23, 2026
My interest in this series was really because my mother always had copies of Miller’s Antiques Price Guides around the house. It was this author’s mother who wrote those. I’m not a big reader of traditional whodunnit mysteries but I enjoyed this. I’ll probably go back and read the previous two books in the series but this one works as a standalone. It’s a book that my mom definitely would have liked.
Thank you to Goodreads Giveaways for the ARC.
Thank you to Goodreads Giveaways for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
I really liked the blurb of this one but I think I made a mistake. This is the third title in a series and it absolutely cannot be read as a stand alone. The reason I quit reading at 25% is that I had great difficulty following the story because of all the information in between about who was who and what happened to them in the first two books in the series.
So, nicely written, and I think I would come to learn to like the characters, but to do that I would have to go back and read the other two books in this series first.
Thanks to Atria and Edelweiss for this review copy.
So, nicely written, and I think I would come to learn to like the characters, but to do that I would have to go back and read the other two books in this series first.
Thanks to Atria and Edelweiss for this review copy.
January 3, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
This series is good, and the antique-hunting-meets-murder concept is still something I really enjoy. That said, by book three it does start to feel a bit repetitive at times, like the story is following a familiar path. I still appreciate the idea behind the series though. It’s a fun premise and clearly knows what it wants to be.
The middle of the book felt long and a little heavy, with a slow build that may work for some readers but dragged for me personally. I did really appreciate the mention of Scotland. A castle setting always adds atmosphere, and that detail was a nice touch.
Carol, though? She’s a highlight. I really enjoy her character and hope we continue to see more of her because she brings a lot of personality to the story.
One thing I do want to note, especially since this is an ARC, is that there were quite a few grammar and formatting issues throughout. I noticed random dashes breaking up words, odd spacing like three or four spaces between words, and some outright misspellings. This wasn’t a case of different regional spellings. These were clear errors that made the reading experience a little distracting at times, so I’m hoping they get cleaned up before the official release.
This series is good, and the antique-hunting-meets-murder concept is still something I really enjoy. That said, by book three it does start to feel a bit repetitive at times, like the story is following a familiar path. I still appreciate the idea behind the series though. It’s a fun premise and clearly knows what it wants to be.
The middle of the book felt long and a little heavy, with a slow build that may work for some readers but dragged for me personally. I did really appreciate the mention of Scotland. A castle setting always adds atmosphere, and that detail was a nice touch.
Carol, though? She’s a highlight. I really enjoy her character and hope we continue to see more of her because she brings a lot of personality to the story.
One thing I do want to note, especially since this is an ARC, is that there were quite a few grammar and formatting issues throughout. I noticed random dashes breaking up words, odd spacing like three or four spaces between words, and some outright misspellings. This wasn’t a case of different regional spellings. These were clear errors that made the reading experience a little distracting at times, so I’m hoping they get cleaned up before the official release.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I like the concept of this series, and I've enjoyed the books but they are starting to feel repetitive to me. I also felt like this one lagged more in the middle than the others did - it feels like things get drawn out more than they need to be and rather than creating additional tension it's actually pulling away from the tension that already existed.
I do like the characters (particularly Carole!) but the trouble they find themselves in is starting to feel predictable from book to book. There is nothing wrong with that for a lot of readers - I get the comfort of familiarity in series - but it's just not holding my attention as it did in the first book.
I'm also finding the romantic tension to feel a little drawn out. I know this is only book three, but still... I'm not a huge fan of romance as a genre so I like that it is an element of the characters' interactions here as opposed to a major focus, but I still feel like they keep retreading the same ground and need to actually move forward (as opposed to one step forward, two back) to keep that story element fresh.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my obligation-free review copy.
I do like the characters (particularly Carole!) but the trouble they find themselves in is starting to feel predictable from book to book. There is nothing wrong with that for a lot of readers - I get the comfort of familiarity in series - but it's just not holding my attention as it did in the first book.
I'm also finding the romantic tension to feel a little drawn out. I know this is only book three, but still... I'm not a huge fan of romance as a genre so I like that it is an element of the characters' interactions here as opposed to a major focus, but I still feel like they keep retreading the same ground and need to actually move forward (as opposed to one step forward, two back) to keep that story element fresh.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my obligation-free review copy.
March 21, 2026
If a book gives me antiques, a remote Scottish castle, a snowstorm, and a corpse in a vegetable garden, I’m in. That’s not a preference, that’s a personality trait. The Antique Hunter's Murder at the Castle was my first trip into the world of Freya Lockwood and the Lockwood Antique Hunter’s Agency, a group whose official job is tracking down stolen antiques and art… but whose unofficial hobby appears to be stumbling into murder investigations.
And honestly? What an introduction. The trouble starts when Bella, one of the agency’s more mysterious members and clearly someone who makes bold choices for a living, heads to a remote Scottish castle while following a forgery lead. She calls Freya with a garbled message, the connection cuts out, and then she disappears completely.
Which is already concerning. It becomes more concerning when Freya and her Aunt Carole arrive at the castle and discover the laird dead in the vegetable garden and a collection of valuable silver missing.
The local police immediately decide Bella probably did it, which feels like a very lazy conclusion considering the castle is absolutely overflowing with people who look like they’ve been rehearsing suspicious behavior for years.
From there the book settles into peak cozy mystery chaos. Snowstorm closing in. A castle full of secrets. Family tensions bubbling under the surface. Forgery drama. Missing antiques. Everyone wandering around like they might either confess to murder or dramatically faint in the hallway.
The setting is doing some heavy atmospheric lifting here and I loved it. A snowy Scottish castle is already suspicious before anyone dies. Add a locked-in mystery and suddenly every hallway feels like it’s hiding a clue, a secret passage, or at minimum someone dramatically lurking with information they absolutely should have shared earlier.
But the thing that really worked for me was the team dynamic. Even as a brand-new reader, it’s easy to click into how this group functions.
Freya is determined and smart but clearly still adjusting to the reality that she’s now the one running the operation. Aunt Carole walks into the story like a fabulous hurricane of confidence and mischief. She is fearless, slightly chaotic, and operating with the kind of energy that suggests she absolutely will question suspects over tea while everyone else tries to maintain basic social norms.
Sky handles the tech side of things like a hacker wizard, while FBI art crime agent Phil circles the investigation with that subtle “maybe we’re flirting but also solving crimes” energy that cozy mysteries love to simmer in the background.
Now full honesty moment. This was my first book in the series, which means I essentially wandered into book three like someone who accidentally started a murder show in season three and decided to just roll with it.
And you actually can. The mystery itself stands on its own, but there are definitely moments where you can feel the history between these characters. Instead of being confusing, though, it mostly made me curious. Like walking into a friend group mid-conversation and immediately deciding you want the backstory.
So yes, I will absolutely be going back for the first two books.
The mystery itself is fun and twisty, even if the middle slows a bit while all the suspects and secrets get shuffled around. There are a lot of moving pieces here, stolen silver, family drama, forged art, and several people being just evasive enough to make you want to shake them gently.
I had a few guesses about the culprit but did not fully piece together the motivation until the reveal, which is honestly the sweet spot for a cozy mystery. Let me feel clever for a minute and then pull the rug out from under me. All told, this lands at about a 3.5 star read for me. Charming, atmospheric, and just messy enough to be entertaining, with a cast that made me immediately curious about the earlier books.
Also if future installments include more castles, more antique crime, and Aunt Carole continuing to bulldoze politely through social situations in the name of justice, I will absolutely be seated.
Whodunity Award: For Making a Scottish Vegetable Garden Feel More Dangerous Than Most Dark Alleys
And a big thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for the ARC, which I devoured while side-eyeing every decorative item in my house like it might be evidence.
And honestly? What an introduction. The trouble starts when Bella, one of the agency’s more mysterious members and clearly someone who makes bold choices for a living, heads to a remote Scottish castle while following a forgery lead. She calls Freya with a garbled message, the connection cuts out, and then she disappears completely.
Which is already concerning. It becomes more concerning when Freya and her Aunt Carole arrive at the castle and discover the laird dead in the vegetable garden and a collection of valuable silver missing.
The local police immediately decide Bella probably did it, which feels like a very lazy conclusion considering the castle is absolutely overflowing with people who look like they’ve been rehearsing suspicious behavior for years.
From there the book settles into peak cozy mystery chaos. Snowstorm closing in. A castle full of secrets. Family tensions bubbling under the surface. Forgery drama. Missing antiques. Everyone wandering around like they might either confess to murder or dramatically faint in the hallway.
The setting is doing some heavy atmospheric lifting here and I loved it. A snowy Scottish castle is already suspicious before anyone dies. Add a locked-in mystery and suddenly every hallway feels like it’s hiding a clue, a secret passage, or at minimum someone dramatically lurking with information they absolutely should have shared earlier.
But the thing that really worked for me was the team dynamic. Even as a brand-new reader, it’s easy to click into how this group functions.
Freya is determined and smart but clearly still adjusting to the reality that she’s now the one running the operation. Aunt Carole walks into the story like a fabulous hurricane of confidence and mischief. She is fearless, slightly chaotic, and operating with the kind of energy that suggests she absolutely will question suspects over tea while everyone else tries to maintain basic social norms.
Sky handles the tech side of things like a hacker wizard, while FBI art crime agent Phil circles the investigation with that subtle “maybe we’re flirting but also solving crimes” energy that cozy mysteries love to simmer in the background.
Now full honesty moment. This was my first book in the series, which means I essentially wandered into book three like someone who accidentally started a murder show in season three and decided to just roll with it.
And you actually can. The mystery itself stands on its own, but there are definitely moments where you can feel the history between these characters. Instead of being confusing, though, it mostly made me curious. Like walking into a friend group mid-conversation and immediately deciding you want the backstory.
So yes, I will absolutely be going back for the first two books.
The mystery itself is fun and twisty, even if the middle slows a bit while all the suspects and secrets get shuffled around. There are a lot of moving pieces here, stolen silver, family drama, forged art, and several people being just evasive enough to make you want to shake them gently.
I had a few guesses about the culprit but did not fully piece together the motivation until the reveal, which is honestly the sweet spot for a cozy mystery. Let me feel clever for a minute and then pull the rug out from under me. All told, this lands at about a 3.5 star read for me. Charming, atmospheric, and just messy enough to be entertaining, with a cast that made me immediately curious about the earlier books.
Also if future installments include more castles, more antique crime, and Aunt Carole continuing to bulldoze politely through social situations in the name of justice, I will absolutely be seated.
Whodunity Award: For Making a Scottish Vegetable Garden Feel More Dangerous Than Most Dark Alleys
And a big thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for the ARC, which I devoured while side-eyeing every decorative item in my house like it might be evidence.
March 1, 2026
The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle is the third book in the Antique Hunter series, and while it’s marketed as a cozy mystery, it reads more like a high-stakes, intricate thriller. It blends a missing-person investigation, a classic whodunit, antiques-underworld intrigue, and a puzzle theft mystery into a tightly woven story. There’s enough backstory to make it work as a standalone, but reading the series in order gives you a much better connection to the ensemble cast and their dynamics. The snowed-in Scottish castle and small-town setting bring the atmospheric, cozy vibes—making it the perfect sweater-weather binge read!
The story follows Freya Lockwood, an expert antique hunter, and her Aunt Carole as they investigate a forgery ring linked to counterfeit paintings. When their colleague Bella, who was tracing the source, goes missing, they head to her last known location: the remote Fawside Castle in the Scottish Highlands. Instead of finding Bella, they discover the murdered laird and a cache of priceless Scottish silverware that is stolen. With the police eyeing Bella as the prime suspect and a snowstorm closing in, Freya and her team must clear her name while uncovering who killed the laird, where the silver went, and how it all connects before they’re cut off.
The story keeps readers hooked through shifting POVs from Bella, Freya, Carole, and India—the murdered laird’s daughter—giving the mystery real emotional depth and a multidimensional feel. Freya’s POV anchors the novel—she’s perceptive and determined and easy to like. Aunt Carole is witty and warm and also offers comic relief while proving herself a worthy partner in the investigation. Bella’s chapters are the most unreliable—she’s resourceful and unpredictable, and her early disappearance casts doubt on her loyalty and motives until she resurfaces and the mystery becomes more complex. Strong supporting characters, including India, the tech-savvy Sky, and steady FBI agent Phil (who also serves as a subtle love interest for Freya), round out the ensemble cast and make this installment especially compelling!
The pacing is one of the book’s biggest strengths—it's always moving, whether through revealing dialogue or bursts of action. The short, snappy chapters often end on mini-cliffhangers, making it easy to keep turning the pages and very possible to finish in one sitting. The second half delivers unexpected twists, long-buried secrets tied to the castle’s past, and compelling revelations about Bella’s motives and choices. It becomes a fast race to the finish, and by the end the central mysteries are resolved in satisfying ways. At the same time, a few lingering questions—especially surrounding Bella’s future and the wider antiques underworld—leave just enough intrigue to set up another installment in the series.
Overall, Murder at the Castle is an atmospheric, intricately plotted mystery that stands out for its unique blend of antique intrigue, Scottish castles and landscapes, and a puzzle-driven plot that’s nearly impossible to predict. Fans of cozy ensemble-cast mysteries, character-driven whodunits, unreliable narrators, and multiple POVs will easily get lost in this story—and will likely be eager to dive into the earlier books in the series and whatever comes next!
The story follows Freya Lockwood, an expert antique hunter, and her Aunt Carole as they investigate a forgery ring linked to counterfeit paintings. When their colleague Bella, who was tracing the source, goes missing, they head to her last known location: the remote Fawside Castle in the Scottish Highlands. Instead of finding Bella, they discover the murdered laird and a cache of priceless Scottish silverware that is stolen. With the police eyeing Bella as the prime suspect and a snowstorm closing in, Freya and her team must clear her name while uncovering who killed the laird, where the silver went, and how it all connects before they’re cut off.
The story keeps readers hooked through shifting POVs from Bella, Freya, Carole, and India—the murdered laird’s daughter—giving the mystery real emotional depth and a multidimensional feel. Freya’s POV anchors the novel—she’s perceptive and determined and easy to like. Aunt Carole is witty and warm and also offers comic relief while proving herself a worthy partner in the investigation. Bella’s chapters are the most unreliable—she’s resourceful and unpredictable, and her early disappearance casts doubt on her loyalty and motives until she resurfaces and the mystery becomes more complex. Strong supporting characters, including India, the tech-savvy Sky, and steady FBI agent Phil (who also serves as a subtle love interest for Freya), round out the ensemble cast and make this installment especially compelling!
The pacing is one of the book’s biggest strengths—it's always moving, whether through revealing dialogue or bursts of action. The short, snappy chapters often end on mini-cliffhangers, making it easy to keep turning the pages and very possible to finish in one sitting. The second half delivers unexpected twists, long-buried secrets tied to the castle’s past, and compelling revelations about Bella’s motives and choices. It becomes a fast race to the finish, and by the end the central mysteries are resolved in satisfying ways. At the same time, a few lingering questions—especially surrounding Bella’s future and the wider antiques underworld—leave just enough intrigue to set up another installment in the series.
Overall, Murder at the Castle is an atmospheric, intricately plotted mystery that stands out for its unique blend of antique intrigue, Scottish castles and landscapes, and a puzzle-driven plot that’s nearly impossible to predict. Fans of cozy ensemble-cast mysteries, character-driven whodunits, unreliable narrators, and multiple POVs will easily get lost in this story—and will likely be eager to dive into the earlier books in the series and whatever comes next!
March 21, 2026
3.5 stars
I really liked that this book was Bella-centric, she really is my favorite character in this series. I enjoyed her family drama and the Scottish setting of this mystery. However the other plot of the book was kinda boring to me. Freya, even if she is the main character, came off very two dimensional and her back and forth “romance” with Phil just feels like it’s going nowhere. Hopefully the next book we can finally get some momentum on that front and a truly exciting mystery in Venice.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this arc in exchange for my honest review
I really liked that this book was Bella-centric, she really is my favorite character in this series. I enjoyed her family drama and the Scottish setting of this mystery. However the other plot of the book was kinda boring to me. Freya, even if she is the main character, came off very two dimensional and her back and forth “romance” with Phil just feels like it’s going nowhere. Hopefully the next book we can finally get some momentum on that front and a truly exciting mystery in Venice.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this arc in exchange for my honest review
March 24, 2026
"The Antique Hunter's Murder at the Castle (The Antique Hunter's Guide to Murder Book 3)" by C. L. Miller is a multi-perspective semi-professional investigators cozy mystery. We have an art theft specialist, antiques specialist, hacker and a woman of a certain age with some serious spy like abilities.
Bella os in Scotland tracking down a lead about some illegal art that may be tied go something she's more personally interested in. She's the black market/art theft specialist. She's grudgingly warming up to being part of Freya's team.
Freya is the antique specialist and sort of main character amongst the multiple pov going on. She inherited Lockwood Antique Hunter's Agency and is an antiques expert. She has a possible budding romance with their FBI contact for their FBI partnership. She and her Aunt Carole track down Bella when she goes silent on an investigation.
Aunt Carole seems to be the longest running member of their agency. She also has some of all their skills with a bit of a spy abilities. She's also frequently the motivation behind some of their more questionable choices. A bit of the comic relief.
They all end up in Scotland to figure out why Bella has gone radio silent on an investigation no one knew about. While there, they stumble on the body of a local laird. Things start to become all wound together leading to solve a few mysteries in one wrap up. This book is fairly standalone but I think reading them in order would help smooth out some background info.
Bella os in Scotland tracking down a lead about some illegal art that may be tied go something she's more personally interested in. She's the black market/art theft specialist. She's grudgingly warming up to being part of Freya's team.
Freya is the antique specialist and sort of main character amongst the multiple pov going on. She inherited Lockwood Antique Hunter's Agency and is an antiques expert. She has a possible budding romance with their FBI contact for their FBI partnership. She and her Aunt Carole track down Bella when she goes silent on an investigation.
Aunt Carole seems to be the longest running member of their agency. She also has some of all their skills with a bit of a spy abilities. She's also frequently the motivation behind some of their more questionable choices. A bit of the comic relief.
They all end up in Scotland to figure out why Bella has gone radio silent on an investigation no one knew about. While there, they stumble on the body of a local laird. Things start to become all wound together leading to solve a few mysteries in one wrap up. This book is fairly standalone but I think reading them in order would help smooth out some background info.
March 24, 2026
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Thank you MacMillian Publishing for this book in exchange for an honest review
The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle is a cozy mystery that sweeps you into foggy Scottish hills, with snow-covered castles, and a murder with serious whodunit energy! When Bella, a beloved member of the Lockwood Antique Hunter’s Agency, disappears while tracking an art forger, Freya Lockwood and her ever-eccentric partner Aunt Carole race off to find her, only to stumble into a chilling murder at an isolated castle. The snowstorm looming over the Highlands only thickens the mystery and the atmosphere as the clock ticks and roads freeze over and the isolation begins to creep in.
Freya, Carole, and the rest of the gang work together through clues, suspects, and castle secrets with humour and heart, giving the plot both suspense and charm. Whether it’s antique lore, snowy Celtic landscapes, or that classic “everyone’s a suspect” intrigue, this instalment delivers a page-turning mystery that keeps you guessing until the last clue is uncovered.
Overall, if you are looking for an atmospheric and clever read, with characters that have bold personalities, The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle is a must add to your TBR!!!
Bookstagram
Thank you MacMillian Publishing for this book in exchange for an honest review
The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle is a cozy mystery that sweeps you into foggy Scottish hills, with snow-covered castles, and a murder with serious whodunit energy! When Bella, a beloved member of the Lockwood Antique Hunter’s Agency, disappears while tracking an art forger, Freya Lockwood and her ever-eccentric partner Aunt Carole race off to find her, only to stumble into a chilling murder at an isolated castle. The snowstorm looming over the Highlands only thickens the mystery and the atmosphere as the clock ticks and roads freeze over and the isolation begins to creep in.
Freya, Carole, and the rest of the gang work together through clues, suspects, and castle secrets with humour and heart, giving the plot both suspense and charm. Whether it’s antique lore, snowy Celtic landscapes, or that classic “everyone’s a suspect” intrigue, this instalment delivers a page-turning mystery that keeps you guessing until the last clue is uncovered.
Overall, if you are looking for an atmospheric and clever read, with characters that have bold personalities, The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle is a must add to your TBR!!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Atria Books/ Simon and Schuster and NetGalley for this book in exchange for an honest review.
Having not read the previous two books I did not know what I was getting into! I will give this book credit and say that they really flesh out the characters and make their personalities very obvious in case you're new to the story or need a refresher. Carole is a delight and I really enjoyed getting to know her character! I found she made the story more interesting where other characters didn't shine as much.
The story really lagged in the middle and I found myself constantly looking ahead to see how much was left. I would think this kind of mystery/thriller would be a little faster paced- at least that is what I personally prefer. Maybe that's just my American pov. 😅 The story felt really linear and didn't really twist and turn like other mysteries I have tried.
As mentioned in another review the formatting errors were very distracting. Even when it is disclosed that it is an unedited arc I can't help but have that affect how I feel about the book. There were so many including having words with dashes in them where they shouldn't be (as a made up example "encourage-ment"). Again, it takes me out of the experience of the book and I would ask the publishers to consider doing more polished versions for review in the future so we can be as unbiased as possible.
Having not read the previous two books I did not know what I was getting into! I will give this book credit and say that they really flesh out the characters and make their personalities very obvious in case you're new to the story or need a refresher. Carole is a delight and I really enjoyed getting to know her character! I found she made the story more interesting where other characters didn't shine as much.
The story really lagged in the middle and I found myself constantly looking ahead to see how much was left. I would think this kind of mystery/thriller would be a little faster paced- at least that is what I personally prefer. Maybe that's just my American pov. 😅 The story felt really linear and didn't really twist and turn like other mysteries I have tried.
As mentioned in another review the formatting errors were very distracting. Even when it is disclosed that it is an unedited arc I can't help but have that affect how I feel about the book. There were so many including having words with dashes in them where they shouldn't be (as a made up example "encourage-ment"). Again, it takes me out of the experience of the book and I would ask the publishers to consider doing more polished versions for review in the future so we can be as unbiased as possible.
March 4, 2026
Anything with ‘Castle’ in the title and I’m probably going to read it. Anything narrated by Emilia Fox and I’m probably going to listen to it. If it’s murder mystery it’s hitting my shelves and this whole audiobook was just success soup for me.
It was an addicting story inhibited only by the fact I came into this one having not had much experience with the characters or prior books in the series so I didn’t have as much of an attachment to them as I might otherwise have had.
It was an amazing audiobook and really well narrated which will have you effortlessly enjoying the story as it’s brought to life from the pages. It’s well worth a listen.
Thank you to the author and publisher for this audiobook on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
It was an addicting story inhibited only by the fact I came into this one having not had much experience with the characters or prior books in the series so I didn’t have as much of an attachment to them as I might otherwise have had.
It was an amazing audiobook and really well narrated which will have you effortlessly enjoying the story as it’s brought to life from the pages. It’s well worth a listen.
Thank you to the author and publisher for this audiobook on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
March 5, 2026
This is a great “cozy” mystery, and part of a fantastic series! The characters are becoming more and more “real” with each installment, and the mysteries are just complex enough to be engaging without becoming overwhelming.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the third book in The Antique Hunter's books but the first of which I've read. That being said, the story was still easy to follow and the characters very loveable. I felt the story flowed the entire time and also showed character conflicts and development throughout. I did guess the who-done-it but wasn't expecting the twist as to the why. I felt like this was a cute, Hallmark like murder mystery book and I'd recommend if you like that type of story. It definitely left me curious to read the first two books in the series. I was given an advanced copy of this book for free from NetGalley and I'm leaving this review from the goodness of my heart.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Murder in the Castle is the third installment of The Antique Hunter's series, and it does not disappoint!
Freya and her team band together to help one of their own when Bella goes missing while investigating a forgery ring and murder. The plot twists will keep you guessing until the end! Enjoyable series!
Thank you Atria Books and Netgalley for allowing me the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Freya and her team band together to help one of their own when Bella goes missing while investigating a forgery ring and murder. The plot twists will keep you guessing until the end! Enjoyable series!
Thank you Atria Books and Netgalley for allowing me the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 18, 2026
I received a complimentary ARC copy of The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle by C.L. Miller from Net Galley and Simon & Schuster Canada in order to read and give an honest review.
…The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle is an atmospheric, intricately plotted mystery with a unique focus on the antiques underworld....
The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle the third installment in the Antique Hunter series does not disappoint. This entry brings Freya Lockwood and her ever‑charming Aunt Carole back into the spotlight, this time drawn into a case that feels far more personal. There’s also something undeniably captivating about a mystery set in a snowed‑in Scottish castle and leans into that atmosphere beautifully. Their colleague Bella has disappeared while investigating a forgery ring, and the trail leads them to the remote Fawside Castle in the Highlands. Instead of answers, they walk straight into a murder scene and the theft of rare Scottish silver, all while a storm closes in and the police begin to suspect Bella herself. What unfolds is a tense, layered mystery involving counterfeit art, old family secrets, and shifting loyalties, with the castle’s claustrophobic corridors adding an extra edge to every discovery.
One of the novel’s strengths is its sense of place; the Highlands setting is wonderfully moody, and the castle feels almost alive with history and hidden corners. The multiple POV’s, moving between Bella, Freya, Carole, and India, the laird’s daughter, adds emotional depth and keeps the narrative engaging. Aunt Carole, as always, reminds us of that one fun aunt we all think is crazy but love dearly. Her wit, warmth, and sharp instincts bring levity without ever undermining the seriousness of the investigation, and she continues to be one of the series’ brightest highlights. The short, punchy chapters also make the book incredibly readable, each ending with just enough tension to nudge you into the next.
That said, by the third book, some familiar patterns in the series are beginning to show. While the premise is strong and the setting irresistible, a few plot beats felt predictable, and the middle section dragged more than I expected before the story regained its momentum. Still, the final reveals, particularly surrounding the stolen antiques, are satisfying and clever, tying the threads together in a way that makes the journey worthwhile.
Overall, The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle is an atmospheric, intricately plotted mystery with a unique focus on the antiques underworld. It may not reinvent the series, but it offers plenty of charm, tension, and character‑driven intrigue. And with just enough breadcrumbs hinting at future adventures, it certainly left me curious to see where Freya and Carole head next. To sum it up if you are looking for a fast-paced, captivating, fun, and cleverly woven cozy that will keep you flipping pages, this it the book for you, I highly recommend. I look forward to reading more about Freya and her team’s adventures in the future.
…The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle is an atmospheric, intricately plotted mystery with a unique focus on the antiques underworld....
The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle the third installment in the Antique Hunter series does not disappoint. This entry brings Freya Lockwood and her ever‑charming Aunt Carole back into the spotlight, this time drawn into a case that feels far more personal. There’s also something undeniably captivating about a mystery set in a snowed‑in Scottish castle and leans into that atmosphere beautifully. Their colleague Bella has disappeared while investigating a forgery ring, and the trail leads them to the remote Fawside Castle in the Highlands. Instead of answers, they walk straight into a murder scene and the theft of rare Scottish silver, all while a storm closes in and the police begin to suspect Bella herself. What unfolds is a tense, layered mystery involving counterfeit art, old family secrets, and shifting loyalties, with the castle’s claustrophobic corridors adding an extra edge to every discovery.
One of the novel’s strengths is its sense of place; the Highlands setting is wonderfully moody, and the castle feels almost alive with history and hidden corners. The multiple POV’s, moving between Bella, Freya, Carole, and India, the laird’s daughter, adds emotional depth and keeps the narrative engaging. Aunt Carole, as always, reminds us of that one fun aunt we all think is crazy but love dearly. Her wit, warmth, and sharp instincts bring levity without ever undermining the seriousness of the investigation, and she continues to be one of the series’ brightest highlights. The short, punchy chapters also make the book incredibly readable, each ending with just enough tension to nudge you into the next.
That said, by the third book, some familiar patterns in the series are beginning to show. While the premise is strong and the setting irresistible, a few plot beats felt predictable, and the middle section dragged more than I expected before the story regained its momentum. Still, the final reveals, particularly surrounding the stolen antiques, are satisfying and clever, tying the threads together in a way that makes the journey worthwhile.
Overall, The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle is an atmospheric, intricately plotted mystery with a unique focus on the antiques underworld. It may not reinvent the series, but it offers plenty of charm, tension, and character‑driven intrigue. And with just enough breadcrumbs hinting at future adventures, it certainly left me curious to see where Freya and Carole head next. To sum it up if you are looking for a fast-paced, captivating, fun, and cleverly woven cozy that will keep you flipping pages, this it the book for you, I highly recommend. I look forward to reading more about Freya and her team’s adventures in the future.
March 23, 2026
Book review: 3.75/5 ⭐️
Genre: cozy mystery
Themes: art forgery, antiques, found family
📖 Read if you like: The Devil in Oxford
A laird is dead and Scottish antiques have gone missing. In a mystery that is irrevocably tied to Arthur’s infamous journals Freya, Carole, Sky and Bella will uncover a forgery wing while putting the pieces of a personal history together. This was such a joy to read and as always Carole stole the show with her enigmatic exuberance and warmth. I have also enjoyed meeting the new women of the Lockwood Agency. Hacker Sky and former thief Bella add a grey element to the very black and white Phil and more conventional Freya.
There is something off putting about Phil to me. The FBI agent is the cowboy from America sweeping in to make Freya a damsel in distress when she is anything but. There is a fine line between protection and control and I don’t like how Freya deferred to him in decision making when she is fully capable and has a great team around her. I liked all the push back his character got from the other ladies from the Lockwood agency. They were giving Ocean’s 8 vibes and I loved the oddball cast of women finding some semblance of family with each other and pushing forward for the truth against all naysayers.
This is proving to be an entertaining series and a joy for cozy rainy days. The mystery was well thought out out with a few red herrings and there was an equal focus on the interpersonal development between characters. I liked that all the leading ladies got a voice in this multi-POV narrative. It really rounded out the story and made all of the characters (except Phil) easy to root for. The ending was very Agatha Christie with everyone trapped in a castle while a murderer is revealed. I appreciated the nod to the classic mystery, while it was given a fresh take.
The art world was once again a feature in this series. Forgeries, identity fraud and dead bodies were taken to the Scottish landscape and a perfectly timed snowstorm set the stage for this dramatic interlude. It was interesting to learn more about Scottish painters and sterling silver, but the larger ring in the primary focus in this instalment. I do wish there was more art analysis like in the first book, but I do so love any excuse to visit Scotland if only in literary form.
Thank you to Atria and Netgalley for an eARC for me to enjoy. Out this week!
Genre: cozy mystery
Themes: art forgery, antiques, found family
📖 Read if you like: The Devil in Oxford
A laird is dead and Scottish antiques have gone missing. In a mystery that is irrevocably tied to Arthur’s infamous journals Freya, Carole, Sky and Bella will uncover a forgery wing while putting the pieces of a personal history together. This was such a joy to read and as always Carole stole the show with her enigmatic exuberance and warmth. I have also enjoyed meeting the new women of the Lockwood Agency. Hacker Sky and former thief Bella add a grey element to the very black and white Phil and more conventional Freya.
There is something off putting about Phil to me. The FBI agent is the cowboy from America sweeping in to make Freya a damsel in distress when she is anything but. There is a fine line between protection and control and I don’t like how Freya deferred to him in decision making when she is fully capable and has a great team around her. I liked all the push back his character got from the other ladies from the Lockwood agency. They were giving Ocean’s 8 vibes and I loved the oddball cast of women finding some semblance of family with each other and pushing forward for the truth against all naysayers.
This is proving to be an entertaining series and a joy for cozy rainy days. The mystery was well thought out out with a few red herrings and there was an equal focus on the interpersonal development between characters. I liked that all the leading ladies got a voice in this multi-POV narrative. It really rounded out the story and made all of the characters (except Phil) easy to root for. The ending was very Agatha Christie with everyone trapped in a castle while a murderer is revealed. I appreciated the nod to the classic mystery, while it was given a fresh take.
The art world was once again a feature in this series. Forgeries, identity fraud and dead bodies were taken to the Scottish landscape and a perfectly timed snowstorm set the stage for this dramatic interlude. It was interesting to learn more about Scottish painters and sterling silver, but the larger ring in the primary focus in this instalment. I do wish there was more art analysis like in the first book, but I do so love any excuse to visit Scotland if only in literary form.
Thank you to Atria and Netgalley for an eARC for me to enjoy. Out this week!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars rounded up
This is the third book in the series which is a wee bit convoluted and the characters a tad complicated, so I think you'd probably have a better time if you do the usual and start at the beginning and read in order.
So, in this their third outing, we follow Freya and Aunt Carol as they race to Scotland after a strange call from one of their associates Bella. Upon arrival at the Castle where she was last seen, they find a dead body and some missing silver. Local police start to point the finger in Bella's direction and, as she remains missing, she is unable to defend herself.
With a snowstorm threatening to cut them off, they call in the cavalry to try and not only clear Bella's name but also to find the missing silver and solve the murder.
This series has, and we are only in book three remember - become a little repetitive. But I guess you can liken this to the MC Beaton books in which, after a while, the repetitiveness becomes familiar and the books become cosy. We are not really at that stage here though and I think maybe I wanted a little more from the story and characters before we go down that road. Formulaic is nice, comfortable, however repetitive can be a tad irksome.
As far as the characters are concerned, they can occasionally be a bit annoying but luckily we also have the wonderful Carol who just about manages to keep things on an even keel.
The story was compelling and, although I found the culprit to be a tad easy to guess, I had no idea as to why until the end when it was revealed. That said, it didn't come completely out of nowhere.
There were also tie ins and resolution from the previous book herein which, if you haven't read them might confuse, and also make the whole feel a little forced on occasion.
But, all in all, a worthy addition to a solid, if a tad quirky, series. I'm definitely in for book four and I hope with the resolutions herein, it might be a bit fresher.
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
This is the third book in the series which is a wee bit convoluted and the characters a tad complicated, so I think you'd probably have a better time if you do the usual and start at the beginning and read in order.
So, in this their third outing, we follow Freya and Aunt Carol as they race to Scotland after a strange call from one of their associates Bella. Upon arrival at the Castle where she was last seen, they find a dead body and some missing silver. Local police start to point the finger in Bella's direction and, as she remains missing, she is unable to defend herself.
With a snowstorm threatening to cut them off, they call in the cavalry to try and not only clear Bella's name but also to find the missing silver and solve the murder.
This series has, and we are only in book three remember - become a little repetitive. But I guess you can liken this to the MC Beaton books in which, after a while, the repetitiveness becomes familiar and the books become cosy. We are not really at that stage here though and I think maybe I wanted a little more from the story and characters before we go down that road. Formulaic is nice, comfortable, however repetitive can be a tad irksome.
As far as the characters are concerned, they can occasionally be a bit annoying but luckily we also have the wonderful Carol who just about manages to keep things on an even keel.
The story was compelling and, although I found the culprit to be a tad easy to guess, I had no idea as to why until the end when it was revealed. That said, it didn't come completely out of nowhere.
There were also tie ins and resolution from the previous book herein which, if you haven't read them might confuse, and also make the whole feel a little forced on occasion.
But, all in all, a worthy addition to a solid, if a tad quirky, series. I'm definitely in for book four and I hope with the resolutions herein, it might be a bit fresher.
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
My thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for an ARC of this novel.
This is the third in the Antique Lovers’ mystery series, and the premise of locating ‘missing’ antiques and also solving related mysteries remains intriguing. By this time, readers are accustomed to the cast of characters—and they really are ‘characters,’ each quirky in ways both appealing and annoying—are nicely familiar. Freya Lockwood was bequeathed her mentor Arthur Crockleford’s antiques business in the first volume. The second volume sees the founding of the Lockwood Antique Hunters Agency, which still relies on Arthur’s diary, really an inventory of missing antiques. And the diary continues to play a role in this most recent volume, which brings Bella, Freya and her feisty Aunt Carole to an ‘Outlander’ type isolated Scottish castle. There is even a mention of the TV series as an enticement to the Scottish tourist trade. This sort of tongue-in-cheek humour is a series hallmark, running through the individual mysteries, which are generally fast-paced and entertaining.
In this volume, Bella has made what she hopes will be a quick and exciting trip to Fawside Castle where she has an appointment to meet with the Laird. She has traced some forgeries to the castle. Arriving early and finding the doors unlocked, she can’t suppress her curiosity, and wanders around—and then she stumbles on the dead Laird in the gardens. Her cellphone call to Freya is first garbled and then abruptly cut off. While Aunt Carole reassures Freya that it’s probably an instance of poor connections, the women quickly decide to go to Scotland.
The Scottish setting is dark and moody and beautifully described, intensifying the actual mystery, which is fairly formulaic. Its structure is like that of the other two, but this is part of the entertainment value of ‘cosy’ mysteries, and readers like me who enjoy the genre will appreciate that. Miller provides a few details to identify the main characters and the agency’s origins, but they are just that, few in number, so I highly recommend reading the books in order.
This is the third in the Antique Lovers’ mystery series, and the premise of locating ‘missing’ antiques and also solving related mysteries remains intriguing. By this time, readers are accustomed to the cast of characters—and they really are ‘characters,’ each quirky in ways both appealing and annoying—are nicely familiar. Freya Lockwood was bequeathed her mentor Arthur Crockleford’s antiques business in the first volume. The second volume sees the founding of the Lockwood Antique Hunters Agency, which still relies on Arthur’s diary, really an inventory of missing antiques. And the diary continues to play a role in this most recent volume, which brings Bella, Freya and her feisty Aunt Carole to an ‘Outlander’ type isolated Scottish castle. There is even a mention of the TV series as an enticement to the Scottish tourist trade. This sort of tongue-in-cheek humour is a series hallmark, running through the individual mysteries, which are generally fast-paced and entertaining.
In this volume, Bella has made what she hopes will be a quick and exciting trip to Fawside Castle where she has an appointment to meet with the Laird. She has traced some forgeries to the castle. Arriving early and finding the doors unlocked, she can’t suppress her curiosity, and wanders around—and then she stumbles on the dead Laird in the gardens. Her cellphone call to Freya is first garbled and then abruptly cut off. While Aunt Carole reassures Freya that it’s probably an instance of poor connections, the women quickly decide to go to Scotland.
The Scottish setting is dark and moody and beautifully described, intensifying the actual mystery, which is fairly formulaic. Its structure is like that of the other two, but this is part of the entertainment value of ‘cosy’ mysteries, and readers like me who enjoy the genre will appreciate that. Miller provides a few details to identify the main characters and the agency’s origins, but they are just that, few in number, so I highly recommend reading the books in order.
February 17, 2026
I received a review copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.
THE ANTIQUE HUNTER'S MURDER AT THE CASTLE is the third instalment of this mystery series set around the shady side of the antiques world.
The book is set in Scotland during the winter in a castle. It's so atmospheric and leans heavily into the snow and old castle part of the setting. It's a really fun addition to the wintry mystery category. You'll want to curl up by a fire when reading this!
The heart of the story is Bella, even though she's not the primary narrator (that's still Freya.) Bella is now sort of part of the team, but her past means she doesn't play well in a team, unable to trust, and is pushing away and doubting the others' attempts to trust and include her. And then she goes missing and everyone gets to prove their commitment by hunting for her. I really loved this dynamic.
As with a good murder mystery series, the mystery at the heart of each book is wrapped up in this tale. You have a complete mystery without needing to get another book - and I read these books out of order (#1, #3, and next #2!) There are only situational plot spoilers for the other books in this one but not the answers to the whodunnits. I think the emotional arc around Bella would have landed more if I'd read the second book before this (oops!) but I did like her journey regardless.
Emilia Fox narrates again. There's such a range of accents in this book (the British Isles are dense with regional variety) and they don't ever feel gimmicky here. Instead, being able to immediately tell where someone grew up is an important part of the character's dynamics - who is a local and who is an interloper.
THE ANTIQUE HUNTER'S MURDER AT THE CASTLE is the third instalment of this mystery series set around the shady side of the antiques world.
The book is set in Scotland during the winter in a castle. It's so atmospheric and leans heavily into the snow and old castle part of the setting. It's a really fun addition to the wintry mystery category. You'll want to curl up by a fire when reading this!
The heart of the story is Bella, even though she's not the primary narrator (that's still Freya.) Bella is now sort of part of the team, but her past means she doesn't play well in a team, unable to trust, and is pushing away and doubting the others' attempts to trust and include her. And then she goes missing and everyone gets to prove their commitment by hunting for her. I really loved this dynamic.
As with a good murder mystery series, the mystery at the heart of each book is wrapped up in this tale. You have a complete mystery without needing to get another book - and I read these books out of order (#1, #3, and next #2!) There are only situational plot spoilers for the other books in this one but not the answers to the whodunnits. I think the emotional arc around Bella would have landed more if I'd read the second book before this (oops!) but I did like her journey regardless.
Emilia Fox narrates again. There's such a range of accents in this book (the British Isles are dense with regional variety) and they don't ever feel gimmicky here. Instead, being able to immediately tell where someone grew up is an important part of the character's dynamics - who is a local and who is an interloper.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Freya Lockwood and feisty Aunt Carole are returning for a third installment of the Antique Hunters, “Murder at the Castle”. In book one, Freya inherited the antiques business of her mentor Arthur Crockleford (whose diary still provides clues) and reluctantly recruited her colorful Aunt Carole to solve a murder. In book two, the Lockwood Antique Hunter’s Agency is fully established as another mysterious opportunity in the form of a missing maritime painting presents itself; and by book three, hunting down lost antiquities and uncovering forgeries has become their established business.
In this tale, Bella, a Lockwood Agency colleague, is on the trail of a forger, but she goes missing in the Disney-ish Fawside Castle in the Scottish Borders. Coming to investigate, Freya and Carole also stumble upon a vegetable patch that also has a dead body of the castle’s silver collector laird planted in it.
Freya and Carole are delightful characters who really deserved a series. C.L. Miller mysteries can be intricately plotted, but there’s enough backstory to jump right in. It’s a team inquiry and delightful Phil, the Art Crime Team FBI agent, is back again. The ending is very Agatha Christie-ish — invite everyone into a room and tie up all the loose ends. This is a great cozy mystery series and I love the characters. 4 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Close enough, Phil has hazel eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO It’s winter, but the garden has some secrets.
Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
In this tale, Bella, a Lockwood Agency colleague, is on the trail of a forger, but she goes missing in the Disney-ish Fawside Castle in the Scottish Borders. Coming to investigate, Freya and Carole also stumble upon a vegetable patch that also has a dead body of the castle’s silver collector laird planted in it.
Freya and Carole are delightful characters who really deserved a series. C.L. Miller mysteries can be intricately plotted, but there’s enough backstory to jump right in. It’s a team inquiry and delightful Phil, the Art Crime Team FBI agent, is back again. The ending is very Agatha Christie-ish — invite everyone into a room and tie up all the loose ends. This is a great cozy mystery series and I love the characters. 4 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Close enough, Phil has hazel eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO It’s winter, but the garden has some secrets.
Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
C.L. Miller just keeps getting better!
I got into The Antique Hunter's Murder at the Castle pretty early on. The premise is fantastic. Murder mysteries are a personal favorite, and we have an antique hunter who knows what they are doing? And uses it to solve murders? Awesome. Our main character Freya has really built up her confidence over the last two books, and it was great to see her, Carole, and the rest of the gang throw themselves into their first official case as a team.
This mystery was well paced and plotted. It worked hard to resolve a lot of threads from the first two book (this is not a stand-alone read - you need to read the first two for this one to make sense). Some of the resolutions felt a little forced - in trying to keep all the threads together, there wasn't enough explanation for all the shenanigans that happened. I am proud of myself for guessing who did it, but it took me a minute to figure out why they did it. And I felt there wasn't enough exploration, or setup, for the why.
Where this book really shines is in the relationships of our main characters. We get multiple points of view so that we can dive into how the different characters (Freya, Carole, Bella and Skye) feel about the situations and each other. I really loved getting more glimpses into their inner monologues, and especially in watching Bella open up to the team. I'm really looking forward to more of their adventures!
Big big thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Atria books for this ARC.
I got into The Antique Hunter's Murder at the Castle pretty early on. The premise is fantastic. Murder mysteries are a personal favorite, and we have an antique hunter who knows what they are doing? And uses it to solve murders? Awesome. Our main character Freya has really built up her confidence over the last two books, and it was great to see her, Carole, and the rest of the gang throw themselves into their first official case as a team.
This mystery was well paced and plotted. It worked hard to resolve a lot of threads from the first two book (this is not a stand-alone read - you need to read the first two for this one to make sense). Some of the resolutions felt a little forced - in trying to keep all the threads together, there wasn't enough explanation for all the shenanigans that happened. I am proud of myself for guessing who did it, but it took me a minute to figure out why they did it. And I felt there wasn't enough exploration, or setup, for the why.
Where this book really shines is in the relationships of our main characters. We get multiple points of view so that we can dive into how the different characters (Freya, Carole, Bella and Skye) feel about the situations and each other. I really loved getting more glimpses into their inner monologues, and especially in watching Bella open up to the team. I'm really looking forward to more of their adventures!
Big big thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Atria books for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Book three in the series and I went in blind thanks to my deep and unwavering obsession with Scottish Highland settings. Snow, lochs, castles? Immediate yes. Thank you to Macmillan for the ARC.
That said, I really wish I’d read the earlier books. The quick catch-up on characters and relationships wasn’t quite enough for me, and I never fully connected with Freya, Aunt Carole or the wider cast. As a standalone, it didn’t quite click and I felt a bit on the outside emotionally.
The mystery itself had some fun elements, but a few plot points pulled me out. Bella’s flat being in the same building as the forgers’ HQ and Arthur knowing but only leaving a cryptic diary clue didn’t gel for me. I’m guessing there’s context in a previous book, but here it felt frustrating rather than intriguing. Also… mushroom poisoning?! I kept side-eyeing the timeline there, especially given that big Aussie case.
The setting absolutely carries this one. Wintry Highlands, isolated castles and that creeping, cut-off feeling were easily my favourite parts. I can also see how fans of the series would enjoy revisiting these characters and watching the puzzle come together.
Quotes I loved:
“I know she thinks she’s morally grey, like in all those dark romantasy books we both love…”
and
“That Outlander TV show has done great things for the Scottish antiques trade, in my opinion.”
Overall, a miss for me as a standalone, but I’d recommend starting from book one if you love cosy crime with antiques, found family vibes and a strong sense of place.
That said, I really wish I’d read the earlier books. The quick catch-up on characters and relationships wasn’t quite enough for me, and I never fully connected with Freya, Aunt Carole or the wider cast. As a standalone, it didn’t quite click and I felt a bit on the outside emotionally.
The mystery itself had some fun elements, but a few plot points pulled me out. Bella’s flat being in the same building as the forgers’ HQ and Arthur knowing but only leaving a cryptic diary clue didn’t gel for me. I’m guessing there’s context in a previous book, but here it felt frustrating rather than intriguing. Also… mushroom poisoning?! I kept side-eyeing the timeline there, especially given that big Aussie case.
The setting absolutely carries this one. Wintry Highlands, isolated castles and that creeping, cut-off feeling were easily my favourite parts. I can also see how fans of the series would enjoy revisiting these characters and watching the puzzle come together.
Quotes I loved:
“I know she thinks she’s morally grey, like in all those dark romantasy books we both love…”
and
“That Outlander TV show has done great things for the Scottish antiques trade, in my opinion.”
Overall, a miss for me as a standalone, but I’d recommend starting from book one if you love cosy crime with antiques, found family vibes and a strong sense of place.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
** “Antique hunting was in my blood, and it was a hard call to turn away from.” **
C.L. Miller continues her fun mystery series with “The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle,” a mystery featuring several strong females solving several deadly puzzles.
As Freya Lockwood continues the Lockwood Antique Hunter’s Agency, a group of women working to find and restore stolen and black market art pieces to their original owners, their lone wolf member Bella goes missing while visiting a Scottish castle. So Freya, Carole and Sky all head to Fawside Castle to try and locate Bella and determine what her visit has to do with missing art pieces.
Working with the FBI’s Art Crime Team and its agent, Phil Jackson, they quickly learn there is more than meets the eye. Can they get to the bottom of what’s what and who’s who?
Miller does a great job of developing a plot with many twists and turns and misdirections, as well as equally fun and loathsome characters. She also includes several great themes, like grief always needs a release; the power and draw of the hunt for truth; always find good, and not bad, uses for your skills; and the power of friendship and loyalty.
Fans of mysteries, especially like those by Agatha Christie, and series like “The Antique Store Detective” by Clare Chase and “Charity Shop Detective Agency Mysteries” by Peter Boland will love “The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle,” which is due out March 17.
Five stars out of five.
Atria Books provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.
C.L. Miller continues her fun mystery series with “The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle,” a mystery featuring several strong females solving several deadly puzzles.
As Freya Lockwood continues the Lockwood Antique Hunter’s Agency, a group of women working to find and restore stolen and black market art pieces to their original owners, their lone wolf member Bella goes missing while visiting a Scottish castle. So Freya, Carole and Sky all head to Fawside Castle to try and locate Bella and determine what her visit has to do with missing art pieces.
Working with the FBI’s Art Crime Team and its agent, Phil Jackson, they quickly learn there is more than meets the eye. Can they get to the bottom of what’s what and who’s who?
Miller does a great job of developing a plot with many twists and turns and misdirections, as well as equally fun and loathsome characters. She also includes several great themes, like grief always needs a release; the power and draw of the hunt for truth; always find good, and not bad, uses for your skills; and the power of friendship and loyalty.
Fans of mysteries, especially like those by Agatha Christie, and series like “The Antique Store Detective” by Clare Chase and “Charity Shop Detective Agency Mysteries” by Peter Boland will love “The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle,” which is due out March 17.
Five stars out of five.
Atria Books provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 rounded up.
It was a little hard for me to get into this one at first, and that’s entirely down to my own mistake rather than the book itself. I quickly realised that The Antique Hunters: Murder in the Castle is book three in the series, so some of the references and character connections didn’t feel as organic to me as they probably would have if I’d started from book one. That said, once I found my footing, the writing more than made up for my foolish oversight.
The storytelling is confident and immersive, with a real sense of atmosphere woven through the setting of the castle. I loved the strong female cast in particular. Each woman felt distinct and uniquely different, with their own strengths, quirks and perspectives. It made the dynamics feel layered and engaging rather than interchangeable, which I really appreciated.
I absolutely adore a murder mystery, especially one with that classic closed circle, whodunnit energy, and this ticked all my boxes. There was intrigue, suspense, shifting suspicions and just enough twists to keep me second guessing. The pacing really picked up as the mystery unfolded, and I found myself increasingly invested in uncovering the truth.
Overall, once I settled into the world and characters, this was such an enjoyable read. I’ll definitely be going back to read the earlier books so I can fully appreciate the journey from the beginning.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It was a little hard for me to get into this one at first, and that’s entirely down to my own mistake rather than the book itself. I quickly realised that The Antique Hunters: Murder in the Castle is book three in the series, so some of the references and character connections didn’t feel as organic to me as they probably would have if I’d started from book one. That said, once I found my footing, the writing more than made up for my foolish oversight.
The storytelling is confident and immersive, with a real sense of atmosphere woven through the setting of the castle. I loved the strong female cast in particular. Each woman felt distinct and uniquely different, with their own strengths, quirks and perspectives. It made the dynamics feel layered and engaging rather than interchangeable, which I really appreciated.
I absolutely adore a murder mystery, especially one with that classic closed circle, whodunnit energy, and this ticked all my boxes. There was intrigue, suspense, shifting suspicions and just enough twists to keep me second guessing. The pacing really picked up as the mystery unfolded, and I found myself increasingly invested in uncovering the truth.
Overall, once I settled into the world and characters, this was such an enjoyable read. I’ll definitely be going back to read the earlier books so I can fully appreciate the journey from the beginning.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 22, 2026
The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle marked the third installment in this cozy mystery series.
I would recommend starting this series from the beginning. There are many reoccurring characters and it’s important to understand their backstories and relationships with one another.
Each book takes Freya and Aunt Carole on an action-packed adventure to recover stolen artifacts and solve a murder or two along the way. This one followed the duo to a picturesque castle in Scotland.
This wasn’t my favorite book in the series thus far, but I still enjoyed it. Aunt Carole was a major reason for this. She’s glamorous, spunky, mischievous, and has a heart of gold. She’s the glue that holds the group together.
I loved that Bella and Sky played a bigger role in this book. Their characters added dimension to the storyline as well as a heartwarming sense of found family.
With that being said, I struggled with the first half of the novel. There wasn’t enough going on to hold my attention. However, I was much more engaged during the second half. There were plenty of twists and turns, suspicious characters, and fun shenanigans to keep me entertained.
There’s been a potential romance brewing between Freya and FBI agent, Phil since the first book. I feel as though they either need to start dating or move past their flirtations. But maybe I’d feel differently if I was a romance reader.
Thank you so much to @simonschusterca for the opportunity to read this ARC!
I would recommend starting this series from the beginning. There are many reoccurring characters and it’s important to understand their backstories and relationships with one another.
Each book takes Freya and Aunt Carole on an action-packed adventure to recover stolen artifacts and solve a murder or two along the way. This one followed the duo to a picturesque castle in Scotland.
This wasn’t my favorite book in the series thus far, but I still enjoyed it. Aunt Carole was a major reason for this. She’s glamorous, spunky, mischievous, and has a heart of gold. She’s the glue that holds the group together.
I loved that Bella and Sky played a bigger role in this book. Their characters added dimension to the storyline as well as a heartwarming sense of found family.
With that being said, I struggled with the first half of the novel. There wasn’t enough going on to hold my attention. However, I was much more engaged during the second half. There were plenty of twists and turns, suspicious characters, and fun shenanigans to keep me entertained.
There’s been a potential romance brewing between Freya and FBI agent, Phil since the first book. I feel as though they either need to start dating or move past their flirtations. But maybe I’d feel differently if I was a romance reader.
Thank you so much to @simonschusterca for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was in the mood for something lighter in nature than the physical books I have sitting here waiting to be read, so I went to NetGalley to see what was available. I spotted The Antique Hunter's Murder at the Castle and downloaded it right away. I read the first book in the series and enjoyed it, so why not? It’s always comforting to return to characters I already know.
The Antique Hunter's Murder at the Castle is the third book in the Antique Hunter’s series. It’s helpful to have read the first two books, but not entirely necessary, as the events that take place in them are explained. (Disclaimer: I haven’t read the second book.)
Bella, a member of the Lockwood Antique Hunter’s Agency, disappears while investigating art forgeries at a castle in Scotland. Freya and Aunt Carole head out to look for her and quickly find that the laird has been murdered and all of his silver has been stolen. They are soon joined by their employee Sky and FBI agent Phil.
This was a fun mystery with lots of twists and turns and touch of romance. It kept me guessing until the end.
Even though I know nothing about antiques, I would enjoy working at Freya’s antique shop and be a part of Lockwood Antique Hunter’s Agency. And I would love to have an aunt like Carole!
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the arc.
The Antique Hunter's Murder at the Castle is the third book in the Antique Hunter’s series. It’s helpful to have read the first two books, but not entirely necessary, as the events that take place in them are explained. (Disclaimer: I haven’t read the second book.)
Bella, a member of the Lockwood Antique Hunter’s Agency, disappears while investigating art forgeries at a castle in Scotland. Freya and Aunt Carole head out to look for her and quickly find that the laird has been murdered and all of his silver has been stolen. They are soon joined by their employee Sky and FBI agent Phil.
This was a fun mystery with lots of twists and turns and touch of romance. It kept me guessing until the end.
Even though I know nothing about antiques, I would enjoy working at Freya’s antique shop and be a part of Lockwood Antique Hunter’s Agency. And I would love to have an aunt like Carole!
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the arc.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4⭐
I’ve read the first two books in this series and was very happy to see a third installment. There are hints of future entries (perhaps one for each journal?), which gives me hope that the series has a clear long-term arc rather than running endlessly and losing its spark.
This mystery takes its time unfolding. I’m usually pretty good at spotting where a story is headed, but this one kept me guessing. The layered reveals definitely kept me turning pages — I stayed up late and picked it right back up the next morning to see how it all came together.
I wasn’t equally invested in every character. At times, some emotional beats felt a bit repetitive or too quickly resolved. That said, I especially enjoyed spending more time with Freya, Carole, Skye, and Agatha, and I’m curious to see where their arcs go next.
I’m still on the fence about Phil’s overall contribution. While he has a stronger presence here, the romantic angle hasn’t fully won me over yet. The core team dynamic, however — particularly the capable group of women working together — remains a highlight of the series.
Overall, this was a twisty, engaging mystery (maybe almost too twisty at moments) that kept me on my toes. I’m definitely looking forward to the next installment.
This ARC was provided by Atria and NetGalley for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
I’ve read the first two books in this series and was very happy to see a third installment. There are hints of future entries (perhaps one for each journal?), which gives me hope that the series has a clear long-term arc rather than running endlessly and losing its spark.
This mystery takes its time unfolding. I’m usually pretty good at spotting where a story is headed, but this one kept me guessing. The layered reveals definitely kept me turning pages — I stayed up late and picked it right back up the next morning to see how it all came together.
I wasn’t equally invested in every character. At times, some emotional beats felt a bit repetitive or too quickly resolved. That said, I especially enjoyed spending more time with Freya, Carole, Skye, and Agatha, and I’m curious to see where their arcs go next.
I’m still on the fence about Phil’s overall contribution. While he has a stronger presence here, the romantic angle hasn’t fully won me over yet. The core team dynamic, however — particularly the capable group of women working together — remains a highlight of the series.
Overall, this was a twisty, engaging mystery (maybe almost too twisty at moments) that kept me on my toes. I’m definitely looking forward to the next installment.
This ARC was provided by Atria and NetGalley for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
They're back! Picking up from the clues left in Arthur's journal, Freya, Aunt Carole, and the gang continue their quest to find stolen antiques - this time in a medieval Scottish castle in the dead of winter.
Nothing spells atmosphere like isolation, bad weather, and a centuries-old castle. Miller nailed the setting.
The mystery in this installment was twisty. It started as a rescue mission for one of their own and turned into a murder investigation when the castle owner was found dead on the grounds. The red herrings kept me on my toes. I couldn't predict anything, and honestly, I got a little impatient waiting for the grand reveal. But when it came, I was satisfied.
As much as this was about tracking down lost antiquities, it was also about the team dynamics. Freya and Aunt Carole were FBI consultants. Phil was their FBI contact. Sky was a hacker and their shop assistant. Bella, a former associate of Arthur's, was the wild card who didn't work well in group settings. This book expanded on each character's feelings about belonging and their roles in the team.
Fair warning: You'll want to read the first two books for the backstory on each character.
You'll love this if: You want cozy mysteries with atmospheric settings, team dynamics, and antique-hunting adventures.
Thanks to Atria Books and NetGalley for the advance copy.
Nothing spells atmosphere like isolation, bad weather, and a centuries-old castle. Miller nailed the setting.
The mystery in this installment was twisty. It started as a rescue mission for one of their own and turned into a murder investigation when the castle owner was found dead on the grounds. The red herrings kept me on my toes. I couldn't predict anything, and honestly, I got a little impatient waiting for the grand reveal. But when it came, I was satisfied.
As much as this was about tracking down lost antiquities, it was also about the team dynamics. Freya and Aunt Carole were FBI consultants. Phil was their FBI contact. Sky was a hacker and their shop assistant. Bella, a former associate of Arthur's, was the wild card who didn't work well in group settings. This book expanded on each character's feelings about belonging and their roles in the team.
Fair warning: You'll want to read the first two books for the backstory on each character.
You'll love this if: You want cozy mysteries with atmospheric settings, team dynamics, and antique-hunting adventures.
Thanks to Atria Books and NetGalley for the advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
🏰 Snowed in, silver stolen, and a murderer on the loose! 🏰
I just finished The Antique Hunter's Murder at the Castle by C.L. Miller and this series just keeps getting better and better! For the third installment, we’re heading to a wintry Scotland, and the atmosphere is absolutely top-tier.
This time, the stakes are personal because one of the Lockwood Antique Hunter’s Agency members has gone missing! Freya and Aunt Carole head to a remote castle to find her, only to stumble upon a murdered laird and a major silver heist. I loved the found family themes in this one; it really feels like this team is starting to become a tight-knit unit.
Why it’s a must-read:
The Setting: There is nothing like a cozy mystery set in a snowbound Scottish castle. It felt locked in and urgent.
The Pacing: There were plenty of twists that kept me guessing until the very end. Just when I thought the team had a lead, the blizzard would throw a wrench in the plans!
Aunt Carole: She remains one of my favorite characters in the genre—her energy is the perfect spark for this wintry setting.
If you’ve been following Freya’s journey from the beginning, you are going to love how the agency is growing. And if you haven't started this series yet, what are you waiting for? It’s the perfect blend of smart antiquing and classic mystery.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pub Date: March 17, 2026
Series: Antique Hunter's #3
Disclaimer: Thank you Atria Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I just finished The Antique Hunter's Murder at the Castle by C.L. Miller and this series just keeps getting better and better! For the third installment, we’re heading to a wintry Scotland, and the atmosphere is absolutely top-tier.
This time, the stakes are personal because one of the Lockwood Antique Hunter’s Agency members has gone missing! Freya and Aunt Carole head to a remote castle to find her, only to stumble upon a murdered laird and a major silver heist. I loved the found family themes in this one; it really feels like this team is starting to become a tight-knit unit.
Why it’s a must-read:
The Setting: There is nothing like a cozy mystery set in a snowbound Scottish castle. It felt locked in and urgent.
The Pacing: There were plenty of twists that kept me guessing until the very end. Just when I thought the team had a lead, the blizzard would throw a wrench in the plans!
Aunt Carole: She remains one of my favorite characters in the genre—her energy is the perfect spark for this wintry setting.
If you’ve been following Freya’s journey from the beginning, you are going to love how the agency is growing. And if you haven't started this series yet, what are you waiting for? It’s the perfect blend of smart antiquing and classic mystery.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pub Date: March 17, 2026
Series: Antique Hunter's #3
Disclaimer: Thank you Atria Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
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