The setting of a secluded community generally throws added challenges into the already difficult task of solving a murder mystery. The setting is isolated, creating access issues, and the community is usually not thrilled with outsiders, and they may even be turning on each other. Plus, a small group of people in close proximity really makes for a breeding ground of resentment and secrets. It’s why it’s a delicious setting trope!
The Wolf Tree by Laura McCluskey
For fans of procedurals, murder mysteries, and remote island settings!
This is set in Eilean Eadar island, a (fictional) island off the coast of Scotland. It’s a small community that relies on old traditions, has one computer for the entire population, and a priest who dictates how they should be living.
Over a hundred years ago, three lighthouse keepers disappeared and now a young man has died by suicide at the lighthouse. DI Georgina Lennox—young and just back after a case that left her injured—is partnered with seasoned Richie Stewart to make sure the death was by suicide. The problem is no one wants them on their island, and the longer they’re stuck there, the more the “ideal” small town life starts to show its cracks. Then there’s Lennox’s own issues becoming harder to hide…
All access members continue below for more murder mysteries in a secluded community.
City Under One Roof (Cara Kennedy #1) by Iris Yamashita
For fans of procedurals, multiple points of view, characters being stranded by a blizzard setting, and murder mysteries!
All 205 residents of Point Mettier, Alaska live in one high rise building—talk about being all up in your neighbors’ business! Anchorage detective Cara Kennedy—who is grieving her husband and son’s death a year prior in a hiking accident—ends up stranded by a blizzard while investigating some found body parts. Kennedy is now forced to partner with the local officer Joe Barkowski. Along with the investigation, we also follow some residents, including teenager Amy Lin, who wants a different life than the one laid out for her.
The Blinds by Adam Sternbergh
For fans of murder mysteries, a dash of sci-fi in our real world, and communities made up of criminals and innocents without anyone knowing who is who!
The few residents that reside in the small town The Blinds have either participated in a crime or been involved as a witness and have since had the memory altered from their brain so they don’t remember the incident. They have a delivery truck from the outside world bring them supplies and watch the news to keep up with the world, but part of their agreement to live in The Blinds is to have no contact with the outside world, and if they leave the town they can’t return. What could go wrong? A suicide followed by a murder is what…
Browse the books recommended in Unusual Suspects’ previous newsletters on this shelf, and see 2026 releases! Until next time, come talk books with me on Bluesky, Goodreads, Litsy, and Multitudes Contained.
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