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A Death in Glasgow
Get ready to be addicted to the page-turning new mystery thriller from Scottish crime author, Eva Macrae, perfect for fans of Stuart MacBride, Happy Valley, and Dept. Q.
She bought a return ticket. She never came back…
When Holly Campbell’s body is found on the train tracks at Glasgow Central, police quickly rule it a suicide.
She’d had a troubled past. She’d tried before.
But Sergeant May Mackay can’t let one detail go. If Holly never wanted to come home, why did she buy a return ticket?
Driven by her own haunting loss and a promise to Holly’s grieving mother, May is determined to solve the mystery.
But the deeper she digs, the more sinister the truth becomes.
Someone is hiding a terrible secret. And they’ll do whatever it takes to keep it buried.
Even if it means silencing May for good…
She bought a return ticket. She never came back…
When Holly Campbell’s body is found on the train tracks at Glasgow Central, police quickly rule it a suicide.
She’d had a troubled past. She’d tried before.
But Sergeant May Mackay can’t let one detail go. If Holly never wanted to come home, why did she buy a return ticket?
Driven by her own haunting loss and a promise to Holly’s grieving mother, May is determined to solve the mystery.
But the deeper she digs, the more sinister the truth becomes.
Someone is hiding a terrible secret. And they’ll do whatever it takes to keep it buried.
Even if it means silencing May for good…
323 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 8, 2026
108 people are currently reading
225 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
September 2, 2025
4 - 5 stars
A dangerous pursuit and a death on the tracks at Glasgow Central Station. Suicide, accident or??? The victim is student Holly Campbell and her distraught mother Jackie McNally appeals for help to Sergeant May Mackay, stressing her daughter would not commit suicide. May totally understands Jackie’s feelings as she is a grieving mother herself. Jackie pleads with May and she agrees to do what she can because there’s one item in Holly’s possessions that gives her pause for thought and look into it she will, whatever her boss orders. With the help of DC Dimple Sharma from the British Transport Police she begins an investigation which will take her down a very dangerous and sinister path.
This has a breathtaking and tense start which hooks me into the storytelling most effectively. I really like the characters of May and Dimple and a good respectful relationship develops between the two. May has a very interesting background, she has her issues especially her grief which she carries as well as she can. If anything, it makes her more focused with a great determination to pursue the truth. She has a really good partner in Tam who is a good foil for her and grounds her. I grow to admire May’s empathy and her persistence in getting things done as she goes the extra mile. There’s good banter and dynamics between the police team with a good sprinkling of humorous nicknames which raises a smile amongst the dark and gritty.
The novel is rich in atmosphere, an atmosphere unique to Glasgow not least witnessed among the ‘neds’ she interviews to get to the truth and in the dialogue.
I particularly like how the plot starts as a one way enquiry but the deeper it goes it becomes obvious this is about as far from that as it gets. It gets darker and grittier and way more dangerous than May ever anticipates. It’s moving in places, there’s tension and suspense as May navigates all kinds of dirty dealings and downright evil, a multitude of lies and deception until the shocking truth reveals itself. The pace is fast and it holds my interest throughout with plenty of action to keep me gripped.
Overall, I really enjoy this police procedural and hope to meet May and Dimple again in the future.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Random House UK, Cornerstone for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
Publishes in the U.K. 8/1/26
A dangerous pursuit and a death on the tracks at Glasgow Central Station. Suicide, accident or??? The victim is student Holly Campbell and her distraught mother Jackie McNally appeals for help to Sergeant May Mackay, stressing her daughter would not commit suicide. May totally understands Jackie’s feelings as she is a grieving mother herself. Jackie pleads with May and she agrees to do what she can because there’s one item in Holly’s possessions that gives her pause for thought and look into it she will, whatever her boss orders. With the help of DC Dimple Sharma from the British Transport Police she begins an investigation which will take her down a very dangerous and sinister path.
This has a breathtaking and tense start which hooks me into the storytelling most effectively. I really like the characters of May and Dimple and a good respectful relationship develops between the two. May has a very interesting background, she has her issues especially her grief which she carries as well as she can. If anything, it makes her more focused with a great determination to pursue the truth. She has a really good partner in Tam who is a good foil for her and grounds her. I grow to admire May’s empathy and her persistence in getting things done as she goes the extra mile. There’s good banter and dynamics between the police team with a good sprinkling of humorous nicknames which raises a smile amongst the dark and gritty.
The novel is rich in atmosphere, an atmosphere unique to Glasgow not least witnessed among the ‘neds’ she interviews to get to the truth and in the dialogue.
I particularly like how the plot starts as a one way enquiry but the deeper it goes it becomes obvious this is about as far from that as it gets. It gets darker and grittier and way more dangerous than May ever anticipates. It’s moving in places, there’s tension and suspense as May navigates all kinds of dirty dealings and downright evil, a multitude of lies and deception until the shocking truth reveals itself. The pace is fast and it holds my interest throughout with plenty of action to keep me gripped.
Overall, I really enjoy this police procedural and hope to meet May and Dimple again in the future.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Random House UK, Cornerstone for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
Publishes in the U.K. 8/1/26
January 8, 2026
A dark and gritty crime novel, set on the mean streets of Glasgow. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough reading A Death in Glasgow by Eva Macrae. I believe this is the start of a new series and already I am eager for the next book. This was so well written, full of emotion and solid police work, it was certainly my cup of tea.
A young student is found in the tracks at Glasgow Central Station. The transport police are quick to rule it a suicide, but the girls mother is not so convinced. Sergeant May Mackay isn’t either, when she finds a return ticket in Hollys coat pocket. Why would she buy a return ticket if she was going to end her life? working with a rogue transport police officer, they set out to find Hollys killer, bringing them into contact with the worst of the worst in Glasgow’s gangs and drug dealers.
May is such a wonderful character, I really liked her and wanted her to get the bad guys. She is dealing with her own grief , but is determined to see justice for Holly and her mother. She won’t take no for an answer, and is not scared to get out there on the streets among the people and ask the hard questions. She is tough one, and I would want her in my corner.
Thank you so much to Random House UK, Cornerstone, Century on NetGalley for my early copy of this book to read. What a great start to 2026. Publishes on January 8th.
A young student is found in the tracks at Glasgow Central Station. The transport police are quick to rule it a suicide, but the girls mother is not so convinced. Sergeant May Mackay isn’t either, when she finds a return ticket in Hollys coat pocket. Why would she buy a return ticket if she was going to end her life? working with a rogue transport police officer, they set out to find Hollys killer, bringing them into contact with the worst of the worst in Glasgow’s gangs and drug dealers.
May is such a wonderful character, I really liked her and wanted her to get the bad guys. She is dealing with her own grief , but is determined to see justice for Holly and her mother. She won’t take no for an answer, and is not scared to get out there on the streets among the people and ask the hard questions. She is tough one, and I would want her in my corner.
Thank you so much to Random House UK, Cornerstone, Century on NetGalley for my early copy of this book to read. What a great start to 2026. Publishes on January 8th.
February 4, 2026
Holly Campbell, a troubled young woman, who, although clean for the past twelve months, had been addicted to drugs, had a turbulent home life and a cruel and abusive boyfriend. When her body was found on the tracks of Glasgow Central Station, the British Transport Police ruled it an open & shut case of suicide - case closed. But Sergeant May Mackay wasn't so sure. Why would the young woman have a return ticket in her coat pocket? If she knew she wasn't going to return, she wouldn't bother...
As May dug deeply into Holly's circumstances and past, with the help of DC Dimple Sharma of the Transport police, they were aware of the criminal gangs around the city; of the links between drugs and many other crimes. But May was determined; she wanted justice for Holly and for Holly's mother, Jackie, who was distraught, completely against the conclusion of suicide. But May was also coming across danger, to herself and others she cared for.
A Death in Glasgow is my first by Eva Macrae and definitely won't be my last. An immersive, tension filled crime procedural which gripped me from the beginning, plus I had no idea whodunnit. (I thought I did!) May is a determined, stubborn character, bent on doing what was right, trying to help everyone, to the despair of her husband Tam. I really hope this is the beginning of a new series :) And thanks to my friend Carolyn, who recommended this book to me. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Penguin Random House UK for my digital ARC to read and review.
As May dug deeply into Holly's circumstances and past, with the help of DC Dimple Sharma of the Transport police, they were aware of the criminal gangs around the city; of the links between drugs and many other crimes. But May was determined; she wanted justice for Holly and for Holly's mother, Jackie, who was distraught, completely against the conclusion of suicide. But May was also coming across danger, to herself and others she cared for.
A Death in Glasgow is my first by Eva Macrae and definitely won't be my last. An immersive, tension filled crime procedural which gripped me from the beginning, plus I had no idea whodunnit. (I thought I did!) May is a determined, stubborn character, bent on doing what was right, trying to help everyone, to the despair of her husband Tam. I really hope this is the beginning of a new series :) And thanks to my friend Carolyn, who recommended this book to me. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Penguin Random House UK for my digital ARC to read and review.
September 24, 2025
A Death in Glasgow by Eva Macrae is about...well, I think the title can help you with that one, you don't need me.
The death in question is that of Holly Campbell, whose body is found on the tracks at Glasgow Central station. From the wrong side of town, born into the wrong family and with a history of mental health issues, her death is quickly ruled a suicide and Sergeant May Mackay is told to move on. However, when May discovers that Holly had bought a return ticket, she begins to dig a little deeper and discovers that everything might not be quite as it seems.
Firstly, I love when books are set in places which I know well. There is something so magical about being able to picture every street being walked down and every shop being mentioned. What I also love about books like this is that they aren't all car chases or gun shoot outs just plain, honest, police procedures like interviews, CCTV. I think this gives it a sense of realism so sadly missing from other novels which prioritise more thrilling elements to keep the reader hooked. Not that I don't enjoy those types of novels and they definitely have their place, I just find these more realistic and gripping.
Thanks to Netgalley and Random House UK, Cornerstone | Century for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
The death in question is that of Holly Campbell, whose body is found on the tracks at Glasgow Central station. From the wrong side of town, born into the wrong family and with a history of mental health issues, her death is quickly ruled a suicide and Sergeant May Mackay is told to move on. However, when May discovers that Holly had bought a return ticket, she begins to dig a little deeper and discovers that everything might not be quite as it seems.
Firstly, I love when books are set in places which I know well. There is something so magical about being able to picture every street being walked down and every shop being mentioned. What I also love about books like this is that they aren't all car chases or gun shoot outs just plain, honest, police procedures like interviews, CCTV. I think this gives it a sense of realism so sadly missing from other novels which prioritise more thrilling elements to keep the reader hooked. Not that I don't enjoy those types of novels and they definitely have their place, I just find these more realistic and gripping.
Thanks to Netgalley and Random House UK, Cornerstone | Century for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
January 26, 2026
3.75 / 5.0
Great book from start to finish, it’s always great to read a book part of a different policing division, this time we are introduced to Sergeant Mackay who is part of Cathcart Police Office in the south of Glasgow. We see all sides to her from her professional side, her past life and her personal life, it’s well balanced and well managed. I like the team, I like the dynamics and interactions, there is a lot of potential. It’s not a bad first book, sets a good foundation for the next one! I also like going back to my stomping ground (near), where I studied in Edinburgh for university and frequency went over west to Glasgow! Great city, great place wonderful people!
The book is cantered around the death of Holly Campbell, who’s body was found on the train tracks at Glasgow central- where police are quick to rule its a suicide. She had a history of a troubled past and has tried to take her life before. But Sergeant Mackay can’t let one key detail go, if Holly never wanted to come home why did she buy a return ticket? Through her personal loss and the promise to Holly’s grieving mother, May is determined to solve the mystery. The only problem is that the deeper she digs into the mystery the more sinister things become. And it becomes pretty clear someone is hiding a terrible secret.
Aside from the predictability, it’s not a bad first book, it’s a great starter book. I am intrigued and will definitely keep my eye out for this series. I see the potential and opportunity this book can have!
Great book from start to finish, it’s always great to read a book part of a different policing division, this time we are introduced to Sergeant Mackay who is part of Cathcart Police Office in the south of Glasgow. We see all sides to her from her professional side, her past life and her personal life, it’s well balanced and well managed. I like the team, I like the dynamics and interactions, there is a lot of potential. It’s not a bad first book, sets a good foundation for the next one! I also like going back to my stomping ground (near), where I studied in Edinburgh for university and frequency went over west to Glasgow! Great city, great place wonderful people!
The book is cantered around the death of Holly Campbell, who’s body was found on the train tracks at Glasgow central- where police are quick to rule its a suicide. She had a history of a troubled past and has tried to take her life before. But Sergeant Mackay can’t let one key detail go, if Holly never wanted to come home why did she buy a return ticket? Through her personal loss and the promise to Holly’s grieving mother, May is determined to solve the mystery. The only problem is that the deeper she digs into the mystery the more sinister things become. And it becomes pretty clear someone is hiding a terrible secret.
Aside from the predictability, it’s not a bad first book, it’s a great starter book. I am intrigued and will definitely keep my eye out for this series. I see the potential and opportunity this book can have!
November 14, 2025
A Death in Glasgow is the first book in a new series, and if what I've just read is anything to go by, it's going to be a cracker of a series. 🚓
This police procedural has it all:
- Suspicious deaths
- Organised crime
- Cybercrime
- A ballsy female protagonist
- Atmosphere
- A gritty, gripping storyline
- Twists and turns aplenty 🚓
I'm going to assume you've read the blurb at the top, so I won't bore you with another one. Just know that this story hits the ground running. It takes us through the mean streets of Glasgow, where we meet many interesting characters, some of them quite unsavoury, one or two borderline eccentric. 🚓
Front and centre is Sergeant May Mackay, formerly of CID, but now back on the beat. She's gutsy, and she'll get her man, or die trying. 🚓
I loved this book, and I will definitely be watching out for the next in series. 🚓
Thanks to Random House UK and Netgalley for the digital ARC.
This police procedural has it all:
- Suspicious deaths
- Organised crime
- Cybercrime
- A ballsy female protagonist
- Atmosphere
- A gritty, gripping storyline
- Twists and turns aplenty 🚓
I'm going to assume you've read the blurb at the top, so I won't bore you with another one. Just know that this story hits the ground running. It takes us through the mean streets of Glasgow, where we meet many interesting characters, some of them quite unsavoury, one or two borderline eccentric. 🚓
Front and centre is Sergeant May Mackay, formerly of CID, but now back on the beat. She's gutsy, and she'll get her man, or die trying. 🚓
I loved this book, and I will definitely be watching out for the next in series. 🚓
Thanks to Random House UK and Netgalley for the digital ARC.
January 12, 2026
Holly Campbell’s mother is distraught by the violent death of her teenage daughter and appeals to Sergeant May Mackay to do all she can to determine just why Holly landed on the train tracks at Glasgow Central Station. With so many twists and turns this well written and fast paced crime novel certainly hits the ground running and doesn’t let go of the tension until the whole of this complex crime drama has played out.
As it’s the start of what I hope is a new crime series there is a certain amount of scene setting and Sergeant Mackay’s own complex lifestyle certainly adds a very poignant dynamic to the story. However, it is Mackay’s tenacity to get into the very heart of the crime, leaving no stone unturned, in her quest for justice for Holly, and peace of mind for Holly’s grieving mother. Meanwhile as the story progresses May Mackay makes some very powerful enemies amongst the organised crime gangs who prey on the weak and vulnerable of Glasgow’s underbelly. I am sure we’ll get to know more about this corrupt gangland world in future hard hitting crime stories.
Gritty and powerful, A Death In Glasgow is a great introduction to Sergeant May Mackay and I hope to see more of her in future stories.
January 8, 2026
A Death In Glasgow follows Sergeant May Mackay, who is determined to solve the mystery of Holly Campbell’s death when her body is found on the train tracks. It’s quickly ruled a suicide, but if Holly never wanted to come home, why did she buy a return ticket? Driven by her own haunting loss and a promise to Holly’s grieving mother, May digs deeper into her death. But the deeper she digs, the more sinister the truth becomes. Someone is hiding a terrible secret. And they’ll do whatever it takes to keep it buried. Even if it means silencing May for good…
A Death In Glasgow has a police procedural narrative that is executed perfectly. It’s sharp, twisty, gripping, and fast-paced, maintaining tension from start to finish and making it addictive to read. The writing is rich in atmosphere, and the Glasgow setting is vivid and immersive, feeling authentic in both its realism and vocabulary.
For me, May is an absolute standout character. Driven by her fragility and her past, she’s bold, determined, ruthless, passionate and tough. She feels complex, layered, and genuine, and she is exactly the kind of character I’d want in my corner. The other characters are equally gritty and well developed, and I genuinely hope to see more of them if this becomes a series.
A Death In Glasgow is ultimately dark, raw and tragic yet genuinely moving, and I have to say I loved the ending. Between its powerful plot, complex characters, and relentless pace, it’s a book that fully deserves five stars.
Thank you so much to Century Books for sending me this copy to read and review. My opinions are my own.
A Death In Glasgow has a police procedural narrative that is executed perfectly. It’s sharp, twisty, gripping, and fast-paced, maintaining tension from start to finish and making it addictive to read. The writing is rich in atmosphere, and the Glasgow setting is vivid and immersive, feeling authentic in both its realism and vocabulary.
For me, May is an absolute standout character. Driven by her fragility and her past, she’s bold, determined, ruthless, passionate and tough. She feels complex, layered, and genuine, and she is exactly the kind of character I’d want in my corner. The other characters are equally gritty and well developed, and I genuinely hope to see more of them if this becomes a series.
A Death In Glasgow is ultimately dark, raw and tragic yet genuinely moving, and I have to say I loved the ending. Between its powerful plot, complex characters, and relentless pace, it’s a book that fully deserves five stars.
Thank you so much to Century Books for sending me this copy to read and review. My opinions are my own.
September 30, 2025
suicide under a train in Glasgow's main station. A distraught mother with a troubled past insists it's not suicide. A drug dealing ex who doesn't want to accept that the relationship is over.
Seargent May has also lost a daughter to suicide. Is she projecting her grief to make it be another outcome?
A book full of twists and turns, characters that human and flawed.
It kept me gripped and I was sorry when the book ended. Definitely will be looking for other books by Eva.
Seargent May has also lost a daughter to suicide. Is she projecting her grief to make it be another outcome?
A book full of twists and turns, characters that human and flawed.
It kept me gripped and I was sorry when the book ended. Definitely will be looking for other books by Eva.
January 26, 2026
This is a book from Lynne McEwan under a pen name. I have not read any of her books but i have some on my Kobo that i did not know about. This was a really good book I liked the main character May she sounds like me kind of gal. I had my suspicions who "done it". Although im from just outside Edinburgh i liked the mentions of places i had been to Central Station on a few occasions and Kitty O'Sheas beside Queen Street Station. I hope this becomes a series as i was a very good book.
February 3, 2026
Excellent start to what will be a really engaging series!
I really enjoyed meeting Sgt May Mackay and DC Dimple Sharma and can tell that this is going to be a really engaging and exciting series. I’ve never read any books that feature a British Transport Police officer, so this added a unique angle to the book and I really hope that Mackay and Sharma team up again. There’s a brilliantly plotted mystery at the heart of this book and I was fully invested in finding out what had happened to Holly. The opening chapter is incredibly atmospheric and I knew immediately that I would be hooked!
Sometimes with the start of a series I find there can be too much backstory around the central characters in a bid to establish them. I felt the balance between getting to know Mackay and the central mystery was absolutely spot on. I felt like I got to know her enough to really care about her, but this didn’t bog down the main narrative. I love her relationship with her husband and got a real sense of their trauma over losing their daughter. There is enough grit and agony there to propel Mackay’s investment in this case and give her motivation an authenticity. Her tenacity makes her incredibly likeable and I loved how she refused to take no for an answer and was totally emotionally invested in the case. As the novel progresses the pace increases and the narrative builds to an action-packed crescendo that I absolutely tore through. If you enjoy twists, there’s a well executed one here that brings the story to a devastating conclusion. I didn’t see it coming!
I’m already looking forward to picking up Mackay’s next case! If you enjoy a solid police procedural this is definitely one to pick up.
I really enjoyed meeting Sgt May Mackay and DC Dimple Sharma and can tell that this is going to be a really engaging and exciting series. I’ve never read any books that feature a British Transport Police officer, so this added a unique angle to the book and I really hope that Mackay and Sharma team up again. There’s a brilliantly plotted mystery at the heart of this book and I was fully invested in finding out what had happened to Holly. The opening chapter is incredibly atmospheric and I knew immediately that I would be hooked!
Sometimes with the start of a series I find there can be too much backstory around the central characters in a bid to establish them. I felt the balance between getting to know Mackay and the central mystery was absolutely spot on. I felt like I got to know her enough to really care about her, but this didn’t bog down the main narrative. I love her relationship with her husband and got a real sense of their trauma over losing their daughter. There is enough grit and agony there to propel Mackay’s investment in this case and give her motivation an authenticity. Her tenacity makes her incredibly likeable and I loved how she refused to take no for an answer and was totally emotionally invested in the case. As the novel progresses the pace increases and the narrative builds to an action-packed crescendo that I absolutely tore through. If you enjoy twists, there’s a well executed one here that brings the story to a devastating conclusion. I didn’t see it coming!
I’m already looking forward to picking up Mackay’s next case! If you enjoy a solid police procedural this is definitely one to pick up.
January 12, 2026
When the body of a young woman is found on the train tracks at Glasgow Central Station, police are quick to decide it’s a suicide. Holly Campbell had drugs and mental health problems in her past, and the evidence seems straightforward. But one detail doesn’t make sense: Holly had bought a return ticket.
Sergeant May Mackay can’t let that contradiction go. Weighed down by her own grief and driven by a promise to Holly’s mother, May begins to look into Holly’s case, despite her bosses being ready to close it. What starts as a quiet challenge to the official narrative soon turns into a far more dangerous investigation, one that exposes long-buried secrets and powerful people who don’t want the truth uncovered.
As May teams up with DC Dimple Sharma, a British Transport Police officer, their inquiries move through Glasgow’s darker secrets, depicting a city shaped by years of gang activities, loyalty, violence and a reluctance to speak out. As the tension in the investigation mounts, it becomes clear that Holly’s death was no suicide, and May, together with those closest to her, faces growing danger.
From the outset, when Holly Campbell’s body is discovered on the tracks at Glasgow Central, you can tell this isn’t going to be a bog-standard police procedural. The police are all too ready to file it a suicide, citing Holly’s troubled past, but one tiny detail — the return ticket in her pocket — niggles at Sergeant May Mackay.
May is the heart of this novel. She’s flawed, haunted by her own loss and carrying the weight of a promise she made to Holly’s bereft mother, Jackie. Jackie knows her daughter wouldn’t have killed herself, but no one except May will listen to her. It’s the emotional connection between these two grieving mothers that gives the investigation real depth. You’re not just following clues, you’re watching May wrestle with her ghosts as she edges closer to a truth that refuses to stay buried.
May is empathetic, stubborn, and emotionally raw, all traits that give her character the emotional depth I look for in a good crime novel. The rapport between May and BTP Officer, DC Dimple Sharma, is also excellent: equal parts tension, mutual respect, and believable friction. Both women have fought to keep their place in their respective Police forces, and that mutual recognition helps to bond the women. It’s through their interactions that the procedural elements shine. Together, they are a formidable team, better able to overcome the obstacles their disapproving senior officers place in their way. Theirs is a collaboration of two different but equally committed police women who recognise the presence of danger in their situation, but are determined to get to the truth, whatever the personal cost.
The plot itself is beautifully constructed: brisk where it needs to be, with a slow-burning tension that escalates as May uncovers layers of lies, gang connections, and long-held secrets. Once the action hots up, the pacing becomes relentless.
Glasgow’s rain-slicked streets and dark, whispering, closes are unforgiving. Macrae’s use of the Glasgow patter and her unerring descriptions of Glasgow’s less salubrious spots place you directly into authentic, decidedly gritty, settings.
Verdict: The plot is well-constructed, though in some ways, unsurprising, but there’s enough mystery to keep you guessing. By the end, the mystery converges in twists that are both surprising and satisfying, making perfect sense. If you love dark, character-driven thrillers with a strong sense of place and well-drawn protagonists, A Death in Glasgow is a standout start to what I hope will be a long series.
Sergeant May Mackay can’t let that contradiction go. Weighed down by her own grief and driven by a promise to Holly’s mother, May begins to look into Holly’s case, despite her bosses being ready to close it. What starts as a quiet challenge to the official narrative soon turns into a far more dangerous investigation, one that exposes long-buried secrets and powerful people who don’t want the truth uncovered.
As May teams up with DC Dimple Sharma, a British Transport Police officer, their inquiries move through Glasgow’s darker secrets, depicting a city shaped by years of gang activities, loyalty, violence and a reluctance to speak out. As the tension in the investigation mounts, it becomes clear that Holly’s death was no suicide, and May, together with those closest to her, faces growing danger.
From the outset, when Holly Campbell’s body is discovered on the tracks at Glasgow Central, you can tell this isn’t going to be a bog-standard police procedural. The police are all too ready to file it a suicide, citing Holly’s troubled past, but one tiny detail — the return ticket in her pocket — niggles at Sergeant May Mackay.
May is the heart of this novel. She’s flawed, haunted by her own loss and carrying the weight of a promise she made to Holly’s bereft mother, Jackie. Jackie knows her daughter wouldn’t have killed herself, but no one except May will listen to her. It’s the emotional connection between these two grieving mothers that gives the investigation real depth. You’re not just following clues, you’re watching May wrestle with her ghosts as she edges closer to a truth that refuses to stay buried.
May is empathetic, stubborn, and emotionally raw, all traits that give her character the emotional depth I look for in a good crime novel. The rapport between May and BTP Officer, DC Dimple Sharma, is also excellent: equal parts tension, mutual respect, and believable friction. Both women have fought to keep their place in their respective Police forces, and that mutual recognition helps to bond the women. It’s through their interactions that the procedural elements shine. Together, they are a formidable team, better able to overcome the obstacles their disapproving senior officers place in their way. Theirs is a collaboration of two different but equally committed police women who recognise the presence of danger in their situation, but are determined to get to the truth, whatever the personal cost.
The plot itself is beautifully constructed: brisk where it needs to be, with a slow-burning tension that escalates as May uncovers layers of lies, gang connections, and long-held secrets. Once the action hots up, the pacing becomes relentless.
Glasgow’s rain-slicked streets and dark, whispering, closes are unforgiving. Macrae’s use of the Glasgow patter and her unerring descriptions of Glasgow’s less salubrious spots place you directly into authentic, decidedly gritty, settings.
Verdict: The plot is well-constructed, though in some ways, unsurprising, but there’s enough mystery to keep you guessing. By the end, the mystery converges in twists that are both surprising and satisfying, making perfect sense. If you love dark, character-driven thrillers with a strong sense of place and well-drawn protagonists, A Death in Glasgow is a standout start to what I hope will be a long series.
November 22, 2025
This book should have been right up my street. I love a police procedural/thriller and I was born in Glasgow. Somehow though, it never quite grabbed me. I didn’t find myself rooting for May, the Police Sergeant and main protagonist, I just didn’t find her likeable. I felt for her, having lost her daughter to suicide but couldn’t quite identify with her not wanting to be with her son in Australia and preferring to stay near the ghost of her daughter, despite the fact that both her son and his kids and her husband wanted them both to make the move - just didn’t ring true.
The story line was good, a girl dying in front of a train in Glasgow Central Station with the obvious question: did she jump, did she fall or was she pushed. The girl’s mother is convinced there is no way it was suicide and the return train ticket in her pocket seems support her view.
Honestly, I sussed it out who the perpetrator was long before the reveal - I don’t always.
Although it’s been a long, long time since I lived in Scotland and although born in Glasgow I never really lived there but I did work there and there was a lot of vernacular that I don’t remember and my brother, who still lives there, never uses. I could understand that from the potential suspects but from within the police it surprised me. For example, I do remember that the police were referred to as the ‘polis’ but to hear May call herself a ‘polis’ just didn’t ring true. I am, however, willing to stand corrected by those living there now if that would actually happen.
It is fair to say that I’m not a fan of books full of vernacular. I can use my imagination to input the Scottish accent without it all written out as they would say it. It may suit some, but not me.
Whilst I enjoyed the storyline, I felt it could have been shorter. I felt it dragged on a bit and towards the end I was longing for it to finish. I don’t know if this is part of a series but it’s fair to say I wouldn’t be keen to read the next one.
Still three stars because I enjoyed the style of writing and the storyline.
My thanks go to the author, the publishers and to NetGalley for an advanced e.copy of this book, however, this review is voluntary and entirely my own thoughts and opinions.
The story line was good, a girl dying in front of a train in Glasgow Central Station with the obvious question: did she jump, did she fall or was she pushed. The girl’s mother is convinced there is no way it was suicide and the return train ticket in her pocket seems support her view.
Honestly, I sussed it out who the perpetrator was long before the reveal - I don’t always.
Although it’s been a long, long time since I lived in Scotland and although born in Glasgow I never really lived there but I did work there and there was a lot of vernacular that I don’t remember and my brother, who still lives there, never uses. I could understand that from the potential suspects but from within the police it surprised me. For example, I do remember that the police were referred to as the ‘polis’ but to hear May call herself a ‘polis’ just didn’t ring true. I am, however, willing to stand corrected by those living there now if that would actually happen.
It is fair to say that I’m not a fan of books full of vernacular. I can use my imagination to input the Scottish accent without it all written out as they would say it. It may suit some, but not me.
Whilst I enjoyed the storyline, I felt it could have been shorter. I felt it dragged on a bit and towards the end I was longing for it to finish. I don’t know if this is part of a series but it’s fair to say I wouldn’t be keen to read the next one.
Still three stars because I enjoyed the style of writing and the storyline.
My thanks go to the author, the publishers and to NetGalley for an advanced e.copy of this book, however, this review is voluntary and entirely my own thoughts and opinions.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars
I read this book as an ARC from NetGalley and this is my honest opinion about it based on my completing it.
I picked this book by Eva Macrae who sets the story in Glasgow, a place that feels lived in, weather beaten and the opening scene is immediate and gruesome enough to pull you in. The novel drops you into a case that seems deceptively simple at first glance; a body found on the tracks with police ruling it a case of suicide but a single detail is not letting Sergeant Mackay sleep. I loved that the book trusts its atmosphere to do a lot of heavy lifting and that the city itself becomes a character that presses on every scene.
May Mackay is a solid protagonist and is central to the story. She is flawed without being tiresome and her personal grief threads through the investigation in a way that gives the procedural stakes more bite. Eva writes scenes of police work with convincing specificity and a nose for small details which keeps the investigation feeling grounded. The novel peaks in its quieter moments when May pursues a hunch and when memory or guilt nudges her to ask an awkward question. Those scenes made me care and they carried the book far more than the shouty set pieces ever did.
Plot wise the book is accomplished if not entirely original. There are twists and shocks and a final unmasking that will satisfy many readers except the truly hardboiled and a handful of reveals landed for me with genuine punch. At the same time a few of the red herrings are obvious early and some of the manuscript leans on familiar crime tropes which slightly softens the overall impact. The pacing is mostly excellent with a careful balance between mood and momentum yet there are passages where the narrative feels like it is circling rather than advancing.
Secondary characters are a mixed bag. Some feel textured and human and they amplify May in useful ways. Others are sketched in broader strokes which leaves a couple of emotional beats less resonant than they could have been. The prose is plain, clear and readable.
Overall I enjoyed A Death in Glasgow and I would recommend it to readers who like their crime with atmosphere and an empathetic investigator at the centre. Not flawless but engaging and often moving. If you want a gritty feel of Glasgow and a mystery that rewards patience this will be an entertaining pick.
I read this book as an ARC from NetGalley and this is my honest opinion about it based on my completing it.
I picked this book by Eva Macrae who sets the story in Glasgow, a place that feels lived in, weather beaten and the opening scene is immediate and gruesome enough to pull you in. The novel drops you into a case that seems deceptively simple at first glance; a body found on the tracks with police ruling it a case of suicide but a single detail is not letting Sergeant Mackay sleep. I loved that the book trusts its atmosphere to do a lot of heavy lifting and that the city itself becomes a character that presses on every scene.
May Mackay is a solid protagonist and is central to the story. She is flawed without being tiresome and her personal grief threads through the investigation in a way that gives the procedural stakes more bite. Eva writes scenes of police work with convincing specificity and a nose for small details which keeps the investigation feeling grounded. The novel peaks in its quieter moments when May pursues a hunch and when memory or guilt nudges her to ask an awkward question. Those scenes made me care and they carried the book far more than the shouty set pieces ever did.
Plot wise the book is accomplished if not entirely original. There are twists and shocks and a final unmasking that will satisfy many readers except the truly hardboiled and a handful of reveals landed for me with genuine punch. At the same time a few of the red herrings are obvious early and some of the manuscript leans on familiar crime tropes which slightly softens the overall impact. The pacing is mostly excellent with a careful balance between mood and momentum yet there are passages where the narrative feels like it is circling rather than advancing.
Secondary characters are a mixed bag. Some feel textured and human and they amplify May in useful ways. Others are sketched in broader strokes which leaves a couple of emotional beats less resonant than they could have been. The prose is plain, clear and readable.
Overall I enjoyed A Death in Glasgow and I would recommend it to readers who like their crime with atmosphere and an empathetic investigator at the centre. Not flawless but engaging and often moving. If you want a gritty feel of Glasgow and a mystery that rewards patience this will be an entertaining pick.
October 22, 2025
When 22-year-old Holly Campbell jumps in front of an incoming train at Glasgow Central, the British Transport Police (BTP) immediately rule it a suicide since Holly was a troubled young woman with a domestically violent background and a history of drug abuse. What is more, Holly had tried to kill herself before, so it seems to be an open-and-shut case.
But when Sergeant May Mackay finds a return ticket in Holly's coat pocket, she begins to wonder. Holly's mother Jackie believes her daughter's ex-boyfriend and dealer Scott Galbraith is responsible for her daughter's death since he had relentlessly stalked her and sent threatening messages. But there's also Michael McNally, Jackie's estranged brother, a prominent public figure and businessman and, as May suspects, also the head of an organised crime group. Had his niece Holly known something that could have been dangerous for him?
May knows what it means to lose a child and promises Jackie to uncover the truth about Holly's death. With the help of DC Dimple Sharma from BTP, May immerses herself in this case and slowly uncovers a web of lies, secrets and revenge that will pull her deeper than she ever imagined, even putting at risk those she loves. But when another dead body turns up, May and Darma must question everything they have believed so far...
"A Death in Glasgow" by Eva Macrae is an incredibly gripping, atmospheric and realistic crimethriller/police procedural with a very surprising twist at the end. The book had me hooked from the first page since I loved the dark atmosphere of rain-soaked Glasgow, the fast-paced and action-packed plot, the twist and turns, and the complex and authentic characters. The story is told exclusively from May's perspective, so you really get to know her well and can relate easily to her. May is a passionate, dedicated, courageous and utterly human police officer. I loved following her through every dark twist and moral dilemma that came up while trying to solve the case.
So if you are into crime stories that feel real, with layered characters and tension that builds like a storm… this one is definitely for you. I, for my part, really hope that "A Death in Glasgow" won't be a stand-alone thriller but the first book in a fantastic new series!
But when Sergeant May Mackay finds a return ticket in Holly's coat pocket, she begins to wonder. Holly's mother Jackie believes her daughter's ex-boyfriend and dealer Scott Galbraith is responsible for her daughter's death since he had relentlessly stalked her and sent threatening messages. But there's also Michael McNally, Jackie's estranged brother, a prominent public figure and businessman and, as May suspects, also the head of an organised crime group. Had his niece Holly known something that could have been dangerous for him?
May knows what it means to lose a child and promises Jackie to uncover the truth about Holly's death. With the help of DC Dimple Sharma from BTP, May immerses herself in this case and slowly uncovers a web of lies, secrets and revenge that will pull her deeper than she ever imagined, even putting at risk those she loves. But when another dead body turns up, May and Darma must question everything they have believed so far...
"A Death in Glasgow" by Eva Macrae is an incredibly gripping, atmospheric and realistic crimethriller/police procedural with a very surprising twist at the end. The book had me hooked from the first page since I loved the dark atmosphere of rain-soaked Glasgow, the fast-paced and action-packed plot, the twist and turns, and the complex and authentic characters. The story is told exclusively from May's perspective, so you really get to know her well and can relate easily to her. May is a passionate, dedicated, courageous and utterly human police officer. I loved following her through every dark twist and moral dilemma that came up while trying to solve the case.
So if you are into crime stories that feel real, with layered characters and tension that builds like a storm… this one is definitely for you. I, for my part, really hope that "A Death in Glasgow" won't be a stand-alone thriller but the first book in a fantastic new series!
November 21, 2025
Eva Macrae is better known as the author of the DI Shona Oliver novels under her real name of Lynne McEwan. Now as Eva Macrae is heading in a new direction with A Death In Glasgow.
After a brief Prologue, A Death In Glasgow opens with the discovery of a young woman’s body on the tracks at Glasgow Central Station. The transport police are quick to rule it a suicide, but Holly’s mother is not so convinced that she killed herself. Sergeant May Mackay isn’t either, especially when she finds a return ticket in Holly’s coat pocket. Why would she buy a return ticket if she was going to end her life? Despite the directions from her superiors, May works away at the case with the assistance of a rogue transport police officer. Through Holly’s dodgy, and violent boyfriend, the pair discover links to a major drug gang, and gradually find themselves caught up in something very nasty.
A Death In Glasgow is a well crafted police procedural that steadily draws you in and keeps you interested. The beginning is a bit of a slow burn, but once underway the tension rises and the final sections are quite suspenseful. Eva skilfully broadens the story out from its initial focus, but successfully draws it back to Holly’s death to deliver a good surprise or two at the end.
May is a credible and interesting character who is dealing with her own tragedy, which colours her dealings with Holly’s mother and helps her to see the truth. She is believably tough when she has to be, but also very fragile at times. She is very convincing. The other characters also have a gritty, plausible feel to them and Eva’s use of local slang and phrases helps to build the sense of place. The book is rich in atmosphere and the storyline is drawn from everyday experiences in Glasgow.
In all, A Death In Glasgow is an enjoyable police novel that really grew on me as it progressed.
4-5 rounded up.
Full review and more at: https://murdermayhemandlongdogs.com/t...
After a brief Prologue, A Death In Glasgow opens with the discovery of a young woman’s body on the tracks at Glasgow Central Station. The transport police are quick to rule it a suicide, but Holly’s mother is not so convinced that she killed herself. Sergeant May Mackay isn’t either, especially when she finds a return ticket in Holly’s coat pocket. Why would she buy a return ticket if she was going to end her life? Despite the directions from her superiors, May works away at the case with the assistance of a rogue transport police officer. Through Holly’s dodgy, and violent boyfriend, the pair discover links to a major drug gang, and gradually find themselves caught up in something very nasty.
A Death In Glasgow is a well crafted police procedural that steadily draws you in and keeps you interested. The beginning is a bit of a slow burn, but once underway the tension rises and the final sections are quite suspenseful. Eva skilfully broadens the story out from its initial focus, but successfully draws it back to Holly’s death to deliver a good surprise or two at the end.
May is a credible and interesting character who is dealing with her own tragedy, which colours her dealings with Holly’s mother and helps her to see the truth. She is believably tough when she has to be, but also very fragile at times. She is very convincing. The other characters also have a gritty, plausible feel to them and Eva’s use of local slang and phrases helps to build the sense of place. The book is rich in atmosphere and the storyline is drawn from everyday experiences in Glasgow.
In all, A Death In Glasgow is an enjoyable police novel that really grew on me as it progressed.
4-5 rounded up.
Full review and more at: https://murdermayhemandlongdogs.com/t...
December 2, 2025
This is a story of death, secrets and danger. Sergeant May MacKay is called out for a suicide. The thing that doesn't sit right with May is that the girl had a ticket home in her pocket, so it doesn't indicate that she was going to end her life. So what happened?
This is a book that has some tense moments; it is obviously set in Glasgow, and the death occurs at the railway station. May has dealt with suicide on a more personal level, so it is only natural that some of her colleagues think she is trying to prove a crime where there may not be one. The thing is, at the beginning of the book, the reader already meets Holly and is aware of what happened, although not who or why at that point.
May is joined by Dimple Sharma, an officer with the Transport Police, and together they manage to convince their superiors that this is not a suicide, but could be murder. They find themselves scouring the darker side of Glasgow, where drugs and gangs are prevalent, and things then get more intense over time.
This was an interesting book and one that showed the murkier side of Glasgow. It is full of danger, shadows, mystery, and so many people keeping their observations to themselves, making the job of May and Dimple even tougher to crack.
I do like this pairing, May being older and more experienced taking the lead but also listening to what Dimple has to bring to the partnership, well, most of the time. There is also the home life for May and how her husband provides support, and also how May helps the mother of the suicide victim. This, I think, is approached well, but the investigation is focused more on trying to find a murderer.
This is a good story and one that has a steady pace. It involves family, police presence and corruption, and while the crime is solved, there is something left that could see a return of this character. Good duo and one that I would be happy to recommend to fans of crime, thriller, mystery and police procedurals.
This is a book that has some tense moments; it is obviously set in Glasgow, and the death occurs at the railway station. May has dealt with suicide on a more personal level, so it is only natural that some of her colleagues think she is trying to prove a crime where there may not be one. The thing is, at the beginning of the book, the reader already meets Holly and is aware of what happened, although not who or why at that point.
May is joined by Dimple Sharma, an officer with the Transport Police, and together they manage to convince their superiors that this is not a suicide, but could be murder. They find themselves scouring the darker side of Glasgow, where drugs and gangs are prevalent, and things then get more intense over time.
This was an interesting book and one that showed the murkier side of Glasgow. It is full of danger, shadows, mystery, and so many people keeping their observations to themselves, making the job of May and Dimple even tougher to crack.
I do like this pairing, May being older and more experienced taking the lead but also listening to what Dimple has to bring to the partnership, well, most of the time. There is also the home life for May and how her husband provides support, and also how May helps the mother of the suicide victim. This, I think, is approached well, but the investigation is focused more on trying to find a murderer.
This is a good story and one that has a steady pace. It involves family, police presence and corruption, and while the crime is solved, there is something left that could see a return of this character. Good duo and one that I would be happy to recommend to fans of crime, thriller, mystery and police procedurals.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is terrific Scottish crime. Really well written and developed, it’s dark and gritty, set in Glasgow, in the wrong side of town ruled by gangs and drug dealers. Where kids grow up in poverty and often violence, and are recruited by the gangs before they have any chance of escaping.
Sergeant May Mackay is a Glasgow cop, born and bred in the mean streets herself, with a toughness that helps her deal with the criminal element. Previously a detective in CID, she moved back to being in uniform after the suicide of her daughter, so she could spend more time with her musician husband Tam.
The novel opens with a young woman, Holly Campbell, falling onto the tracks in front of a train at Glasgow station. The transport police rule her death a suicide, but one young officer, Dimple Sharma, has her doubts. Holly’s mother, Jackie is adamant that Holly would never have killed herself as she was looking forward to a bright future working in cybercrime. Besides, why would she have a return ticket in her pocket if she was planning suicide in the station? After Dimple approaches May with Jackie’s concerns, May agrees to look into it when she has time away from her other cases.
Right from the start this novel draws in the reader in and keeps them hooked. The tension builds steadily as May and Dimple investigate May’s shady ex-boyfriend and the organised crime group he works for, which is headed by Holly’s uncle.
I loved the use of Glaswegian Street vernacular and the local characters which added to the authentic atmosphere of the setting. May is a great main character, tough as old boots, but with a soft and compassionate core. She has a great understanding of people and how to get them to talk to her and takes on a mentoring role for Dimple, the inexperienced but smart as a whip transport police officer. I hope we’ll get to see more of her in the future. 4.5★
With thanks to Random House UK for a copy to read via Netgalley
Sergeant May Mackay is a Glasgow cop, born and bred in the mean streets herself, with a toughness that helps her deal with the criminal element. Previously a detective in CID, she moved back to being in uniform after the suicide of her daughter, so she could spend more time with her musician husband Tam.
The novel opens with a young woman, Holly Campbell, falling onto the tracks in front of a train at Glasgow station. The transport police rule her death a suicide, but one young officer, Dimple Sharma, has her doubts. Holly’s mother, Jackie is adamant that Holly would never have killed herself as she was looking forward to a bright future working in cybercrime. Besides, why would she have a return ticket in her pocket if she was planning suicide in the station? After Dimple approaches May with Jackie’s concerns, May agrees to look into it when she has time away from her other cases.
Right from the start this novel draws in the reader in and keeps them hooked. The tension builds steadily as May and Dimple investigate May’s shady ex-boyfriend and the organised crime group he works for, which is headed by Holly’s uncle.
I loved the use of Glaswegian Street vernacular and the local characters which added to the authentic atmosphere of the setting. May is a great main character, tough as old boots, but with a soft and compassionate core. She has a great understanding of people and how to get them to talk to her and takes on a mentoring role for Dimple, the inexperienced but smart as a whip transport police officer. I hope we’ll get to see more of her in the future. 4.5★
With thanks to Random House UK for a copy to read via Netgalley
September 12, 2025
Holly Campbell will escape her pursuer if she can catch the train home. Holly, the stalker and the train arrive together. Holly doesn’t survive the meeting. The death, at platform nine in Glasgow’s Central Station, is initially classed as a suicide by the British Transport Police (BTP), a national force separate from Police Scotland (PS) but with the same powers. Crimes on the Railways are under their jurisdiction and normally PS would not be involved. However, Holly’s mother refuses to believe the suicide story and persuades Sergeant May Mackay to take a look at the case. She liaises with DC Dimple Sharma of the BTP and the pair, despite reluctance from their superiors, soon reveal a connection to the McNally’s (the main organised crime group in the Glasgow area), and a disgruntled, drug dealing, ex-boyfriend who works for the latter. The duo must now establish how the connection led to the murder.
This is unequivocally a police procedural and is a good example of the genre. May is a solid character whose own daughter had died from suicide. It is hard to avoid seeing a similarity to Sergeant Catherine Cawood from the TV series “Happy Valley” (she was the image I had while reading). Dimple is an interesting and believable character, clearly growing with her experience on this case – which is a very rare type for BTP investigations. Descriptions of the background, i.e. Glasgow, Loud and Proud, are evocative and contribute strongly to the story. The plot has some minor twists, but I solved the mystery pretty easily so wasn’t as invested as I would have liked. I’m giving it 4 stars because I can’t give fractions.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and the author for providing me with a draft proof copy for the purpose of this review.
This is unequivocally a police procedural and is a good example of the genre. May is a solid character whose own daughter had died from suicide. It is hard to avoid seeing a similarity to Sergeant Catherine Cawood from the TV series “Happy Valley” (she was the image I had while reading). Dimple is an interesting and believable character, clearly growing with her experience on this case – which is a very rare type for BTP investigations. Descriptions of the background, i.e. Glasgow, Loud and Proud, are evocative and contribute strongly to the story. The plot has some minor twists, but I solved the mystery pretty easily so wasn’t as invested as I would have liked. I’m giving it 4 stars because I can’t give fractions.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and the author for providing me with a draft proof copy for the purpose of this review.
January 6, 2026
A fantastic debut from a Scottish Author - a thriller with a gritty storyline, fantastic characters and based in reality!
The accidental death of Holly Campbell is not being accepted by her mother, Jackie McNally. Jackie turns up at Cathcart police office to pick up her effects and crosses paths with Sergeant May Mackay, an experienced officer and detective recovering from the suicide of her own daughter. Something pricks at May's instinct and she can't accept the findings either.
This was a really twisty and immersive thriller, made all the more intriguing as it's set in my own city. So the geography, the language, the atmosphere all strikes a cord and I felt a part of the story right away. The unlikely partnership with a young and inexperienced detective of the British Transport Police, DC Dimple Sharma, is actually really effective as they bounce ideas off each other and are both the very best kind of cop - empathetic but a tad cynical, lol.
The relationship May has with her hubby, Tam, is such a wonderful one. Been together for a long time but still love each other and enjoy time together. Tam gets her to release some of her anxiety and worries over the case without divulging critical details.
I usually avoid contemporary crime fiction, especially set in Scotland, as any non-Scot just never gets the language right, or uses the wrong idiom, or does something to throw me out of the story. But the author is Glaswegian herself, so there are no quibbles from me. As someone who actually works with police on a daily basis everything was just right - down to the tech used, the lingo, the banter. It's like she's been in some of our daily briefings!
The story takes some dark turns before the murderer of Holly gets their just desserts. I would love to see more from the dynamic duo of May and Dimple, Glasgow's new crime fighting duo!
The accidental death of Holly Campbell is not being accepted by her mother, Jackie McNally. Jackie turns up at Cathcart police office to pick up her effects and crosses paths with Sergeant May Mackay, an experienced officer and detective recovering from the suicide of her own daughter. Something pricks at May's instinct and she can't accept the findings either.
This was a really twisty and immersive thriller, made all the more intriguing as it's set in my own city. So the geography, the language, the atmosphere all strikes a cord and I felt a part of the story right away. The unlikely partnership with a young and inexperienced detective of the British Transport Police, DC Dimple Sharma, is actually really effective as they bounce ideas off each other and are both the very best kind of cop - empathetic but a tad cynical, lol.
The relationship May has with her hubby, Tam, is such a wonderful one. Been together for a long time but still love each other and enjoy time together. Tam gets her to release some of her anxiety and worries over the case without divulging critical details.
I usually avoid contemporary crime fiction, especially set in Scotland, as any non-Scot just never gets the language right, or uses the wrong idiom, or does something to throw me out of the story. But the author is Glaswegian herself, so there are no quibbles from me. As someone who actually works with police on a daily basis everything was just right - down to the tech used, the lingo, the banter. It's like she's been in some of our daily briefings!
The story takes some dark turns before the murderer of Holly gets their just desserts. I would love to see more from the dynamic duo of May and Dimple, Glasgow's new crime fighting duo!
January 9, 2026
A Death In Glasgow is a new police procedural series featuring Sergeant May Mackay, formerly of CID but now back on the beat.
When Holly Campbell falls onto the tracks at Glasgow Central Station, her death is quickly ruled a suicide thanks to her known mental health issues and somewhat notorious family. But May Mackay suspects there is more to the case and is determined to dig deeper. And what she uncovers is considerably more complicated - and soon puts even her at risk as she digs deep into the Glasgow underworld.
I raced through this book in a day - it is gritty and compelling, one of those books that draws you in gradually but then begins to ramp up, with plenty of twists as the story unfolds. It is also hugely atmospheric - my husband was born in Glasgow, whilst I was brought up on the East Coast of Scotland, so there was much in this that felt familiar, from colloquialisms to location, and the Glasgow setting really does add to the storyline.
Mackay is an interesting character, and whilst as the first in a new series there is inevitably something of a "getting to know her" feel, she already feels complex but fascinating. Dealing with her own issues brought very much to the fore in this case, she is determined ro get to the truth, but alongside a steeliness there is also a hugely compassionate side - and I very much enjoyed her relationship with BTP officer Dimple Sharma.
Whilst I definitely had my suspicions as to how it would end, the ending was well executed and it in no way detracted from the fact that I very much enjoyed the journey. I very much look forward to the next book in the series!
When Holly Campbell falls onto the tracks at Glasgow Central Station, her death is quickly ruled a suicide thanks to her known mental health issues and somewhat notorious family. But May Mackay suspects there is more to the case and is determined to dig deeper. And what she uncovers is considerably more complicated - and soon puts even her at risk as she digs deep into the Glasgow underworld.
I raced through this book in a day - it is gritty and compelling, one of those books that draws you in gradually but then begins to ramp up, with plenty of twists as the story unfolds. It is also hugely atmospheric - my husband was born in Glasgow, whilst I was brought up on the East Coast of Scotland, so there was much in this that felt familiar, from colloquialisms to location, and the Glasgow setting really does add to the storyline.
Mackay is an interesting character, and whilst as the first in a new series there is inevitably something of a "getting to know her" feel, she already feels complex but fascinating. Dealing with her own issues brought very much to the fore in this case, she is determined ro get to the truth, but alongside a steeliness there is also a hugely compassionate side - and I very much enjoyed her relationship with BTP officer Dimple Sharma.
Whilst I definitely had my suspicions as to how it would end, the ending was well executed and it in no way detracted from the fact that I very much enjoyed the journey. I very much look forward to the next book in the series!
February 8, 2026
I’m pretty sure that this is the first in a new series and it is a series that I will be returning to. Sergeant May Mackay is our main character, a strong character but she has traits that don’t always work well for her. She is stubborn and won’t take no for an answer. As well as this she is emotionally flawed because she is carrying with her the loss of her daughter. This makes her able to understand Jackie Campbell’s grief when her daughter, Holly, dies. Her death is immediately written off as a suicide, she threw herself under a train but Jackie will not believe that her daughter would do this. And May tends to believe her, after all, Holly had a return ticket in her pocket. Why buy a return when you intended never to return? The women share an emotional connection and May, against all instructions investigates with the assistance of British Transport Police officer, Dimple Sharma. Their relationship is tense in the beginning, there is friction but each respects the other and eventually they are singing from the same page. They make a good team and are determined to get to the truth even though there may be danger ahead. The plot is well drawn and there are twists along the way as well as lies, gangs and secrets. I had an idea where we were heading and then was thrown off course only for the ending to reveal that I had been right. I enjoyed that. The dark streets of Glasgow make the setting gritty and I loved the relationship between May and her husband, Tam. May herself is excellently written and you want her to succeed. If I was ever in a fix, she is the first that I would call. I can’t wait to see what her next case will be.
December 30, 2025
When Holly Campbell’s body is found on the train tracks at Glasgow Central, police quickly rule it a suicide. She’d had a troubled past & had tried before.But Sergeant May Mackay can’t let one detail go. If Holly never wanted to come home, why did she buy a return ticket? Driven by her own haunting loss and a promise to Holly’s grieving mother, May is determined to solve the mystery but the deeper she digs, the more sinister the truth becomes. Someone is hiding a terrible secret and will do whatever it takes to keep it buried. Even if it means silencing May for good…
The first in a new thriller series, I thoroughly enjoyed meeting Sergeant May Mackay on her first investigation. I was gripped from the offset, the introductions to the characters building the tension throughout.
Being the first title in a new series there is a slower pace at first with a lot of background detail provided, the author perfectly communicating the relevance of characters, alongside relevant historic information that supports the current case, but also creates the emotional connection with the reader too. The pace in the latter half of this title really ramps up to provide an action-filled conclusion, and although I’d figured out the twist reveal beforehand, I still really enjoyed the execution.
I also feel that this book has given me an insight into the Glaswegian dialect, it really brought the characters to life when reading, setting the scene perfectly. I look forward to the continuation of this series in the future and to discover more from May & her return to solving crimes.
The first in a new thriller series, I thoroughly enjoyed meeting Sergeant May Mackay on her first investigation. I was gripped from the offset, the introductions to the characters building the tension throughout.
Being the first title in a new series there is a slower pace at first with a lot of background detail provided, the author perfectly communicating the relevance of characters, alongside relevant historic information that supports the current case, but also creates the emotional connection with the reader too. The pace in the latter half of this title really ramps up to provide an action-filled conclusion, and although I’d figured out the twist reveal beforehand, I still really enjoyed the execution.
I also feel that this book has given me an insight into the Glaswegian dialect, it really brought the characters to life when reading, setting the scene perfectly. I look forward to the continuation of this series in the future and to discover more from May & her return to solving crimes.
December 8, 2025
A Death In Glasgow is a well written police procedural that had me gripped from the start.
The book starts with a body on a rail track and Sergeant May MacKay is called out to attend. Holly has supposedly committed suicide but May isn’t convinced as the girl had a return ticket in her pocket, why buy it if you’re not going home? May has had a tough time recently and is the perfect officer to help Holly’s mother but how far can she protect her. Drugs are questioned but Holly had nothing in her system and had been clean for a while so after hearing what others say May is convinced the ex boyfriend part of a drug gang has pushed her to her death. The more May uncovers the deeper she gets and someone Sergeant May and someone wants her to stay away.
This is a hard read at times but it worked well. There are a lot of twists along the way and I didn’t get the right culprit! The story is told so well I can hear the accent when I read it and feel I’m there in Glasgow as well. I like how it’s based around strong women for a change, although there are supporting partners the women shine through well. I don’t know if this is the start of a series but I can see it moving g onto another book.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Random House UK, Cornerstone, Century for this ARC I received in exchange for an honest review.
The book starts with a body on a rail track and Sergeant May MacKay is called out to attend. Holly has supposedly committed suicide but May isn’t convinced as the girl had a return ticket in her pocket, why buy it if you’re not going home? May has had a tough time recently and is the perfect officer to help Holly’s mother but how far can she protect her. Drugs are questioned but Holly had nothing in her system and had been clean for a while so after hearing what others say May is convinced the ex boyfriend part of a drug gang has pushed her to her death. The more May uncovers the deeper she gets and someone Sergeant May and someone wants her to stay away.
This is a hard read at times but it worked well. There are a lot of twists along the way and I didn’t get the right culprit! The story is told so well I can hear the accent when I read it and feel I’m there in Glasgow as well. I like how it’s based around strong women for a change, although there are supporting partners the women shine through well. I don’t know if this is the start of a series but I can see it moving g onto another book.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Random House UK, Cornerstone, Century for this ARC I received in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I had never read anything by Eva Macrae before so I did not know what to expect with this one. It turned out to be a really atmospheric read and I liked the gritty Glasgow setting.
The story starts with a body on the tracks at Glasgow Central. The authorities are quick to call it suicide but Sergeant May Mackay is not so sure after she finds a return ticket in the victim's pocket. It is a simple detail that could easily have been missed but May is not your 'usual' copper.
May ends up working with an officer from the British Transport Police to get to the truth. May and Dimple Sharma become even more determined to find out what actually happened to Holly Campbell since their respective bosses want to close the case.
I will admit it was a little slow at times partly, I think, because it's the first in a series and there is always a bit of background and story to provide context to the main characters and May is a strong lead whose personal grief definitely colours her perspective and makes her feel very human.
It is a solid police procedural and I would be happy to read more from her and am patiently waiting for the next instalment.
Many thanks to the author, RandomHouseUK, Cornerstone, Century and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts on this, a gritty start to a promising new Glasgow series.
The story starts with a body on the tracks at Glasgow Central. The authorities are quick to call it suicide but Sergeant May Mackay is not so sure after she finds a return ticket in the victim's pocket. It is a simple detail that could easily have been missed but May is not your 'usual' copper.
May ends up working with an officer from the British Transport Police to get to the truth. May and Dimple Sharma become even more determined to find out what actually happened to Holly Campbell since their respective bosses want to close the case.
I will admit it was a little slow at times partly, I think, because it's the first in a series and there is always a bit of background and story to provide context to the main characters and May is a strong lead whose personal grief definitely colours her perspective and makes her feel very human.
It is a solid police procedural and I would be happy to read more from her and am patiently waiting for the next instalment.
Many thanks to the author, RandomHouseUK, Cornerstone, Century and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts on this, a gritty start to a promising new Glasgow series.
September 19, 2025
Holly Campbell is running for her life. There is someone in hot pursuit, but she can get away if she can catch the next train home. Only she is pushed onto the tracks and killed. The British transport police immediately put it down to suicide and inform her mother Jackie McNally. Jackie however is not convinced. There is her abusive ex-boyfriend, Scott who she is certain murdered her. When Sergeant May MacKay is notified that she is kicking off at the front desk. She begins to think the mother could be onto something. There is a return ticket in Holly’s pocket.
This is a fast-paced murder mystery novel which delves into the black market of intimidation, drug dealing and racketeering. Jackie’s family seem to own everything and everyone in Glasgow and with this in mind it isn’t any wonder that May and DC Dimple Sharma are unable to penetrate the community let alone see how it links to Holly’s murder.
Macrae’s use of dialect and characterisation are superb. There is a real sense that these could be your neighbours on a housing estate in Glasgow. It is this realism that contributed to my enjoyment as I tackled the red herrings and ultimately solved the crime. A worthy read.
Thank you NetGalley and ARC for the opportunity to read this ahead of publication.
This is a fast-paced murder mystery novel which delves into the black market of intimidation, drug dealing and racketeering. Jackie’s family seem to own everything and everyone in Glasgow and with this in mind it isn’t any wonder that May and DC Dimple Sharma are unable to penetrate the community let alone see how it links to Holly’s murder.
Macrae’s use of dialect and characterisation are superb. There is a real sense that these could be your neighbours on a housing estate in Glasgow. It is this realism that contributed to my enjoyment as I tackled the red herrings and ultimately solved the crime. A worthy read.
Thank you NetGalley and ARC for the opportunity to read this ahead of publication.
January 25, 2026
Holly Campbell's body went in front of the train arriving at Glasgow Central Station. She had a history of mental difficulties and had attempted suicide before so it was quickly dismissed, believing that this time she had succeeded. Her mother is adamant that she wouldn't have done that and Sgt May Mackay is not convinced either. If you are going to kill yourself, why buy a return ticket? Holly had connections with some unpleasant people- particularly her ex. Along with a someone from the transport police, who also has their doubts about Holly's death, the pair work to find answers.
This is the start of a new series of books set in Glasgow. I really took to May, she has gone through a lot with the suicide of her daughter. She has excellent support at home from husband Tam however he would like them to move to Australia to be with their son and family. May however cannot drag herself away from Glasgow and its memories of their daughter. She has moved from CID into the uniform division but the CID instincts are all still there.
This was a great start to a new series. I don't know Glasgow well but I felt the description of the city rang true. I really liked May and look forward to meeting her again. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
This is the start of a new series of books set in Glasgow. I really took to May, she has gone through a lot with the suicide of her daughter. She has excellent support at home from husband Tam however he would like them to move to Australia to be with their son and family. May however cannot drag herself away from Glasgow and its memories of their daughter. She has moved from CID into the uniform division but the CID instincts are all still there.
This was a great start to a new series. I don't know Glasgow well but I felt the description of the city rang true. I really liked May and look forward to meeting her again. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
August 22, 2025
Another book I really enjoyed. A young girl is found on the tracks at Glasgow Central Station. Sgt May Mackay cannot get her head round the suicide which the Railway Police are purporting to be the case as Holly had a return ticket home. Why buy a return ticket if she did not plan on going home. Mackay decides to investigate further with the help of D C Sharma of the Railway Police. They are both struggling for anyone in their respective offices to take any notice of their assumptions. Due to Holly taking drugs in the past they feel that the case should be closed even through she had been clean for sometime especially with her relationship with the McNally family, Scott being her boyfriend and who her mom assumed got her into drugs in the first place. The book continues in a relatively fast pace and the central characters of the book were interesting. May and Dimple do not give up on their quest to find out the truth even though their careers could be in jeopardy. They find out that a “bigwig” in Glasgow may have ties to drug gangs and things become very difficult. They do continue and they eventually find the truth to solve the case. A good read
February 10, 2026
Born and brought up in Glasgow, this book was made for me !! I thoroughly enjoyed Eva Macrae’s crime thriller set in this enigmatic city, and her wonderfully descriptive scenes took me straight back there.
When Holly Campbell’s body is found on the train tracks at Glasgow Central, police quickly rule it a suicide. But Sergeant May Mackay can’t let one detail go. If Holly never wanted to come home, why did she buy a return ticket?
This is a good story with interesting insights into the seedier side of this gritty city. The procedural side flowed really well, I loved the complex nature of the varying degrees of the ongoing investigations, the twists and turns, hitting those brick walls when yet another lead ends in nothing, and the human element made the story impactful.
Sergeant May MacKay is a beautifully flawed, down to earth investigator who grows on you chapter by chapter, and I really loved the banter in this book. Eva Macrae’s writing captures the humour of the Glasgow people perfectly.
This is a gripping, binge-worthy read that I’d happily recommend and I’m going to add this author to my reading list.
When Holly Campbell’s body is found on the train tracks at Glasgow Central, police quickly rule it a suicide. But Sergeant May Mackay can’t let one detail go. If Holly never wanted to come home, why did she buy a return ticket?
This is a good story with interesting insights into the seedier side of this gritty city. The procedural side flowed really well, I loved the complex nature of the varying degrees of the ongoing investigations, the twists and turns, hitting those brick walls when yet another lead ends in nothing, and the human element made the story impactful.
Sergeant May MacKay is a beautifully flawed, down to earth investigator who grows on you chapter by chapter, and I really loved the banter in this book. Eva Macrae’s writing captures the humour of the Glasgow people perfectly.
This is a gripping, binge-worthy read that I’d happily recommend and I’m going to add this author to my reading list.
Read
September 21, 2025When a young woman appears to commit suicide on the Glasgow train tracks her death is considered self inflicted by the transport police as she has attempted suicide before. However, her mother does not believe this verdict and appeals to Sgt May Mackay, who is more considerate in her dealings with the woman as she has also lost a daughter to suicide. As May and Dimple from the transport police investigate, May finds her own life is in danger and not everything is as it seems.
This is a well written book with a good level of intrigue and enough development to keep the plot moving. However, I was disappointed to have worked out fairly early the direction it was going in as I would like to have lived in the story a bit longer, as I enjoyed the character of May and her interactions with her colleagues and husband.
I've not read other books by this author but certainly would give them a go.
With thanks to Netgalley and Random House UK, Cornerstone for an arc copy in return for an honest review.
This is a well written book with a good level of intrigue and enough development to keep the plot moving. However, I was disappointed to have worked out fairly early the direction it was going in as I would like to have lived in the story a bit longer, as I enjoyed the character of May and her interactions with her colleagues and husband.
I've not read other books by this author but certainly would give them a go.
With thanks to Netgalley and Random House UK, Cornerstone for an arc copy in return for an honest review.
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