Independent children's author Susan Fiddes has announced the USA release of her debut middle-grade novel, The Mystery of Insch Brae House, set for October 6, 2026. Published by TigerLovesBooks (ISBN: 979-8-9966050-0-2), the book is a throwback mystery set in a wintry Scottish landscape and has already gained significant pre-release attention on NetGalley. The announcement signals a notable addition to the middle-grade mystery genre, which has seen sustained demand for atmospheric, classic-style adventures.
Fiddes, who hails from Scotland and now resides in Washington, DC, is coupling the book launch with a regional US schools and bookstore tour running through the winter holidays. The tour will feature an interactive, educational "children's detective mystery workshop" aimed at building creative storytelling skills while introducing young readers to Scottish culture and geography. This initiative matters because it addresses a growing interest in Scotland following this summer's soccer World Cup, which sparked a surge in global popularity for Scottish themes. By bringing these workshops to schools, Fiddes not only promotes her book but also provides a hands-on educational experience that blends literacy with cultural enrichment.
The novel follows eight-year-old Muriel, who is sent to a dilapidated estate on Scotland's icy coast under the supervision of a strict minder. With a local boy, Muriel must unravel the secrets of Insch Brae House and uncover the true identities of those around her. The story has been praised by Claire McFall, bestselling author of the Ferryman Trilogy, as "a middle-grade tale with a classic feel." Fiddes aims to offer young readers a fun, atmospheric mystery reminiscent of beloved classics like The Mysterious Benedict Society and Winterhouse, while giving them an authentic taste of Scotland's windswept coast through her workshops.
The implications of this announcement extend beyond a single book release. The Mystery of Insch Brae House is currently available for pre-order through the Ingram catalogue, Amazon, and all good bookstores. It is also available to media and education reviewers as an Advance Review Copy on NetGalley ahead of publication. This accessibility ensures that educators and reviewers can evaluate the book early, potentially leading to wider adoption in school curricula. Furthermore, the planned tour and workshops offer a model for how authors can engage directly with communities, fostering a love for reading and cross-cultural understanding. Media, retailers, influencers, school administrators, and event coordinators interested in scheduling a workshop or book signing can contact the author directly.
For more information on the book and tour, visit the publisher's website at TigerLovesBooks or the author's NetGalley page at NetGalley. These platforms provide details on pre-orders and review copies, underscoring the book's potential to make a mark in the middle-grade market.
