Okay, so I finally caved and read this book after staring at it on my Kindle for months. And wow, was it worth it!

The setting is just *chef's kiss* – Snowdonia is described so vividly I could practically feel the mist on my face. The author really nails the whole 'small town with big secrets' vibe.

DI Ruth Hunter is such a refreshing protagonist. She's tough but vulnerable, and her backstory with the missing partner adds this layer of tension throughout. Also, major props for representation – we don't get enough lesbian detectives in crime fiction!

The mystery itself had me flipping pages like crazy. Just when I thought I'd figured it out – BAM – new twist. Though fair warning: some Welsh place names will have you googling pronunciation guides (looking at you, Llanfairpwllgwyngyll).

Only complaint? The alcoholic detective subplot felt a bit overdone at times. But overall? 4.5/5 stars from me – already downloaded Book 2!