Independent children's author Susan Fiddes has announced the upcoming USA release of her debut middle-grade novel, The Mystery of Insch Brae House, scheduled for October 6, 2026. Published by TigerLovesBooks (ISBN: 979-8-9966050-0-2), the action-packed, throwback mystery is set against a wintry Scottish backdrop and is already generating strong pre-release momentum on NetGalley.
In tandem with the book's launch, Fiddes will embark on a regional US schools and bookstore tour running through the winter holidays. The tour features an interactive, educational "children's detective mystery workshop" designed to build creative storytelling skills while teaching young readers about the rich culture and geography of Fiddes' native Scotland—a topic seeing a surge in global popularity following this summer's soccer World Cup.
"Claire McFall, bestselling author of the Ferryman Trilogy, has praised the book as 'a middle-grade tale with a classic feel,'" said Fiddes. "My goal is to give young readers a fun, atmospheric mystery that echoes beloved classics like The Mysterious Benedict Society and Winterhouse, while giving them a genuine taste of Scotland's windswept coast through educational, hands-on workshops."
The story follows eight-year-old Muriel, who is whisked away to a run-down estate on the icy coast of Scotland under the watchful eye of a stern minder. Alongside a local boy, Muriel must uncover the secrets hidden within the shadows of Insch Brae House and discover the true identity of those around her.
The Mystery of Insch Brae House is currently available for pre-order via the Ingram catalogue, Amazon, and via all good bookstores. It is currently available to media and education reviewers as an Advance Review Copy (ARC) on NetGalley ahead of publication. Media, retailers, influencers, school administrators, and event coordinators interested in scheduling a workshop and/or book signing can contact the author directly.
This release arrives at a time when middle-grade mysteries with atmospheric settings and educational components are in high demand. The book's Scottish setting may particularly resonate with young readers and educators, given the increased global interest in Scotland following the World Cup. Fiddes' interactive workshops offer a unique opportunity for schools to engage students in creative writing and cultural exploration, potentially enriching curricula and fostering a love for reading. The success of this debut could also signal continued opportunities for independent authors in the competitive children's publishing market.
