The Black Loch, by Peter May

Peter May's The Lewis Trilogy included three novels set on the Isle of Lewis, the northernmost island in the Outer Hebrides, islands off the west coast of Scotland. The trilogy was completed in 2013 but has now been followed by this fourth book, The Black Loch. In this book, a young woman, Caitlin, is found dead and it turns out that she has been having an affair with Fin's son Fionnlagh, who is now married with a 12-year-old daughter at home. Caitlin's body is found near where she and Fionnlagh used to meet in secret, and he's arrested for her murder. Fin and his wife Marsaili return to the island to do what they can to find out who really murdered Caitlin. As in the earlier books, Fin discovers many secrets and intrigues taking place on the island. The narrative alternates between present day, written in the 3rd person, and Fin's memories of the past, written in the 1st person, which shed light on the modern day characters and motivations. The story spotlights the Scottish salmon farming industry (not in a good way), and (spoiler alert) there is a story line that features a large pod of beached whales that all eventually die. I think this plot line was used to introduce a new character who plays an important role in the climax, but I could have done without the whales dying. Nevertheless, the writing is very good in this book; nothing has been lost from his earlier efforts. The pace is compelling, with the tension staying high throughout the book. Loved it! And I wonder if there will now be more to come?