Picture this: Simon Brade, a sensible Londoner, heads to the remote Scottish Highlands for a quiet fishing holiday. He's looking for peace, not puzzles. But on his very first day, a mysterious, ancient-looking man approaches him with a bizarre greeting: 'I have been waiting for you.' From that moment, Simon's simple vacation unravels. He's drawn into the local legend of a vast treasure hidden by a 17th-century nobleman, protected by a secret brotherhood known only as 'The Trust.' Simon isn't a chosen hero; he's more like an accidental player in a game he never signed up for. As he digs deeper, he realizes the treasure hunt is real, dangerous, and somehow linked directly to him. He's followed, threatened, and must outwit unseen enemies who have been guarding their secret for generations. The cozy village becomes a labyrinth of suspicion, and Simon must use his wits to survive a contest where the prize is as deadly as it is valuable.

Why You Should Read It

Simon himself is the best reason to read this book. He's not a super-spy or a genius detective. He's an everyman—practical, slightly bewildered, and wonderfully dry in his humor. Watching him navigate this escalating madness is a joy. You root for him because he reacts the way you or I might: with a mix of curiosity, fear, and stubborn determination. Clouston also masterfully builds atmosphere. The misty glens and lonely moors of Scotland aren't just a backdrop; they feel like a character, hiding secrets in every shadow. The story moves at a great pace, mixing suspense with moments of clever dialogue that keep it from feeling too heavy.

Final Verdict

This book is a treat for anyone who loves classic adventure mysteries but wants a break from the usual suspects. It's perfect for fans of authors like John Buchan (think The Thirty-Nine Steps but with more puzzle-solving and less international espionage). If you enjoy stories where an average person gets sucked into an extraordinary situation and has to rely on brains rather than brawn, you'll have a blast with Simon. It's a charming, suspenseful, and surprisingly funny journey into a hidden world of secrets. Just be warned: after reading, you might look at your next quiet holiday destination a little differently.