WASHINGTON, DC, September 16, 2026 -- Independent children's author Susan Fiddes today announced the upcoming USA release of her debut middle-grade novel, The Mystery of Insch Brae House, on 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 is delivering 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.
About Susan Fiddes:
Susan Fiddes is an independent children's author and storyteller originally from Scotland, now residing in Washington, DC. She specializes in writing engaging, atmospheric mysteries for middle-grade readers that blend classic adventure with educational themes and values.