Thanks very much for your comment. A lot of effort went into this game, so I'm really glad you enjoyed it!! :) :) :)
Like you say, I wanted the player to see how the whole story came together as if it was a real life situation. It means a lot of reading, but I also think it can be rewarding if you're willing to read through the clues.
I have played the Roottrees, but my main inspiration was the Unsolved Case Files (board game, not videogame). If you liked this game you might like that too!