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D.I. Clare Mackay #10
Watch Them Fall
DI Clare Mackay will be pushed to her limits as the bodies begin to pile up...A body is hauled out of St Andrews harbour. The cause of death a blow to the back of the head.
DI Clare Mackay and her team are immediately suspicious. This was no accident. Local Dennis Gibb was murdered.
Meanwhile a string of burglaries across town divide Clare's attention and she is drawn into a world of property developers, holiday lets and protestors determined to put a stop to the new building works.
When another person linked to Dennis is murdered, the investigation becomes even more urgent and Clare is led down a winding path to local secrets, hidden animosity and dodgy business deals
The next gripping instalment in the bestselling series from the Queen of Tartan Noir and former Bloody Scotland Scottish Crime Debut of the Year nominee Marion Todd. Perfect for fans of JD Kirk, Neil Lancaster and Val McDermid.
DI Clare Mackay and her team are immediately suspicious. This was no accident. Local Dennis Gibb was murdered.
Meanwhile a string of burglaries across town divide Clare's attention and she is drawn into a world of property developers, holiday lets and protestors determined to put a stop to the new building works.
When another person linked to Dennis is murdered, the investigation becomes even more urgent and Clare is led down a winding path to local secrets, hidden animosity and dodgy business deals
The next gripping instalment in the bestselling series from the Queen of Tartan Noir and former Bloody Scotland Scottish Crime Debut of the Year nominee Marion Todd. Perfect for fans of JD Kirk, Neil Lancaster and Val McDermid.
367 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 12, 2026
About the author
Marion Todd
39 books373 followersMarion grew up in the City of Dundee, now home to the magnificent V&A Museum. Always a keen writer, she has had point-of-view pieces published in the Dundee Courier and short stories in My Weekly magazine. She won first prize in the Family Circle Magazine Short Story for Children Competition in 1987.
More recently, Marion has turned her hand to crime fiction and was one of only six commercial fiction writers selected to pitch to an industry panel at XPONorth in Inverness in 2017. In 2018 Marion was long-listed for the Sunstory Award and the Scottish Arts Council Short Story Award. This year she was short-listed for Dundee Rep’s Stripped programme. She is represented by Northbank Talent Management and her debut novel, See Them Run, will be published as an eBook by Canelo on 31 October 2019.
Before becoming a full-time writer, Marion worked as a lecturer, candle-maker and hotel lounge pianist, a job which provided rich material for her novels. When she isn’t writing, Marion can be found tussling with her jungle-like garden and walking in the beautiful Scotish countryside.
Marion lives in North East Fife overlooking the River Tay and is a sometime babysitter for her daughter’s unruly but lovable dog.
More recently, Marion has turned her hand to crime fiction and was one of only six commercial fiction writers selected to pitch to an industry panel at XPONorth in Inverness in 2017. In 2018 Marion was long-listed for the Sunstory Award and the Scottish Arts Council Short Story Award. This year she was short-listed for Dundee Rep’s Stripped programme. She is represented by Northbank Talent Management and her debut novel, See Them Run, will be published as an eBook by Canelo on 31 October 2019.
Before becoming a full-time writer, Marion worked as a lecturer, candle-maker and hotel lounge pianist, a job which provided rich material for her novels. When she isn’t writing, Marion can be found tussling with her jungle-like garden and walking in the beautiful Scotish countryside.
Marion lives in North East Fife overlooking the River Tay and is a sometime babysitter for her daughter’s unruly but lovable dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
February 11, 2026
Book 10 in the DI Clare Mackay series. A good storyline that had you gripped from the start! My only criticism for this series is that the author brought out the personalities of the main characters a little more, otherwise a good series
Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
March 21, 2026
Very good read .
March 28, 2026
what an awful ending, completely ruined such a lovely series. I'm not sure i will read any more now. so disappointed
March 29, 2026
Found this one to be a bit repetitive, Chris with the wagon wheels, Clare doesn’t cook, etc. Lots of predictable parts but the ending did shock me
January 17, 2026
The latest novel from Marion Todd continues to explore the crime and lives of police in St Andrews. Clare Mackay has the disappearance of a local man and also the burglary of property developers to deal with. Add the pressure of a protest march and the cases start to pile up.
I have always enjoyed the characters of these novels and this one doesn’t disappoint. We’re introduced to a new character in Patch and she seems to blend in well. I love the descriptions of Benjy and Clare’s innermost thoughts and concerns seem to feature more in this novel than previously.
The dual layering of the cases and the development of the personal lives of the main characters really worked in this novel. Overall a great story and it really moves the series on. It won’t disappoint.
With thanks to Net Galley for an advanced copy in exchange for an unbiased review.
I have always enjoyed the characters of these novels and this one doesn’t disappoint. We’re introduced to a new character in Patch and she seems to blend in well. I love the descriptions of Benjy and Clare’s innermost thoughts and concerns seem to feature more in this novel than previously.
The dual layering of the cases and the development of the personal lives of the main characters really worked in this novel. Overall a great story and it really moves the series on. It won’t disappoint.
With thanks to Net Galley for an advanced copy in exchange for an unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
WATCH THEM FALL is #10 in author Marion Todd's DI Clare Mackay series and the best instalment that I've read thus far. This novel is one of the finest police procedurals I've read in several years, and I highly recommend it.
The Clare Mackay series always includes stories about the personal lives of Clare and her team while they are investigating crimes that occur in St. Andrews, Scotland. Usually I find the investigative phase of the novels more interesting than the travails of the team members. Not this time. Both were equally compelling.
The investigative phase consists of two apparently separate events: 1) a suspicious drowning that might have been a murder, and 2) a burglary that occurred at the home of a couple planning to build a new luxury housing development. Also on Clare's plate is a forthcoming community protest march against the new housing development; she is tasked with organizing a suitable police response. As always, Todd's plotting is excellent as one murder turns into two, and both investigations coalesce into a far more complex mixture. In addition, Superintendent Penny Meakin complicates matters by insisting that 1) Clare give the burglary investigation priority, and also that 2) the protest march go ahead even though there are not enough police resources to protect everyone from harm.
Where WATCH THEM FALL excels, however, is in showing how the stresses of police work affect the mental and physical health of police officers. Clare is emotionally distraught by the pressures placed on her, especially now that Al's new job means he is gone four days a week, and so she doesn't have him to lean on. And other members of her team suffer, especially some who the reader has come to care for as the series has progressed.
A terrific, if heartbreaking, journey into the mind and heart of police work.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My reviews for other books from this series:
Bridges To Burn (DI Clare Mackay, #8)
A Blind Eye (DI Clare Mackay, #7)
Old Bones Lie (DI Clare Mackay, #6)
What They Knew (DI Clare Mackay, #4)
See Them Run (DI Clare Mackay, #1)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thanks to Canelo for providing an electronic copy of this book via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinions.
The Clare Mackay series always includes stories about the personal lives of Clare and her team while they are investigating crimes that occur in St. Andrews, Scotland. Usually I find the investigative phase of the novels more interesting than the travails of the team members. Not this time. Both were equally compelling.
The investigative phase consists of two apparently separate events: 1) a suspicious drowning that might have been a murder, and 2) a burglary that occurred at the home of a couple planning to build a new luxury housing development. Also on Clare's plate is a forthcoming community protest march against the new housing development; she is tasked with organizing a suitable police response. As always, Todd's plotting is excellent as one murder turns into two, and both investigations coalesce into a far more complex mixture. In addition, Superintendent Penny Meakin complicates matters by insisting that 1) Clare give the burglary investigation priority, and also that 2) the protest march go ahead even though there are not enough police resources to protect everyone from harm.
Where WATCH THEM FALL excels, however, is in showing how the stresses of police work affect the mental and physical health of police officers. Clare is emotionally distraught by the pressures placed on her, especially now that Al's new job means he is gone four days a week, and so she doesn't have him to lean on. And other members of her team suffer, especially some who the reader has come to care for as the series has progressed.
A terrific, if heartbreaking, journey into the mind and heart of police work.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My reviews for other books from this series:
Bridges To Burn (DI Clare Mackay, #8)
A Blind Eye (DI Clare Mackay, #7)
Old Bones Lie (DI Clare Mackay, #6)
What They Knew (DI Clare Mackay, #4)
See Them Run (DI Clare Mackay, #1)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thanks to Canelo for providing an electronic copy of this book via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinions.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Watch Them Fall is another solid, satisfying instalment in Marion Todd’s DI Clare Mackay series, and it delivers exactly what I look for in Tartan Noir: atmosphere, tension, and a detective who feels grounded and human.
The book opens with a body pulled from St Andrews harbour, and from that moment the story barely lets up. Clare and her team quickly realise this wasn’t an accident, and the investigation soon tangles itself around local politics, property developers, and a string of burglaries that keep dragging Clare in different directions. I really enjoyed how the plot threads overlap without ever feeling confusing—Todd keeps the pace brisk but controlled.
Clare remains a standout lead. She’s capable and determined, but Todd always gives her enough personal nuance to keep her relatable. The dynamic within the team is another highlight; the banter and frustrations feel authentic, and it adds a nice layer of warmth to balance the darker moments.
As the bodies start to stack up and the links to the first victim become clearer, the tension builds beautifully. Todd is great at capturing the simmering undercurrents of a small community—old grudges, hidden motives, and the kind of secrets that only come to light when someone pushes too hard.
This instalment feels particularly strong in its sense of place. St Andrews is vividly drawn, from the harbour to the quieter residential streets, and the setting adds a lot to the atmosphere.
Overall, Watch Them Fall is a twisty, engaging read with a satisfying payoff. Fans of the series will be pleased, and newcomers could easily jump in here and still enjoy the ride. A great pick for anyone who loves Scottish crime fiction with heart and bite.
with thanks to Marion Tood, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The book opens with a body pulled from St Andrews harbour, and from that moment the story barely lets up. Clare and her team quickly realise this wasn’t an accident, and the investigation soon tangles itself around local politics, property developers, and a string of burglaries that keep dragging Clare in different directions. I really enjoyed how the plot threads overlap without ever feeling confusing—Todd keeps the pace brisk but controlled.
Clare remains a standout lead. She’s capable and determined, but Todd always gives her enough personal nuance to keep her relatable. The dynamic within the team is another highlight; the banter and frustrations feel authentic, and it adds a nice layer of warmth to balance the darker moments.
As the bodies start to stack up and the links to the first victim become clearer, the tension builds beautifully. Todd is great at capturing the simmering undercurrents of a small community—old grudges, hidden motives, and the kind of secrets that only come to light when someone pushes too hard.
This instalment feels particularly strong in its sense of place. St Andrews is vividly drawn, from the harbour to the quieter residential streets, and the setting adds a lot to the atmosphere.
Overall, Watch Them Fall is a twisty, engaging read with a satisfying payoff. Fans of the series will be pleased, and newcomers could easily jump in here and still enjoy the ride. A great pick for anyone who loves Scottish crime fiction with heart and bite.
with thanks to Marion Tood, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4*. Decent introduction to this author, though the Clare-Al relationship isn't believable.
I'm new to this author, and if the book's one in a series, that wasn't obvious and I wasn't lost.
Clare could've had her cop-other-half's job when Al took a job that'd keep him away from home 4 nights a week. Promotion for them both, but she preferred to keep her hand in, rather than go for management. So, she's overworking, has only their dog Benji for company, and there's not even a text or WhatsApp convo with Al for several chapters, making me wonder if he's dead and she's living in a world of her making. But nope, he's real and when he's home, they don't really have any time together as she's always working or being called out. Even Benji has a surrogate family who're actually his sitters.
The tale itself is decent but the personal relationships are too clunky, too obvious, too 'tries to create intrigue but doesn't quite get it right'. It's a tale of greed and threats, of big fish in small ponds and of the female who's ended up in the role that Clare didn't want being a climber, at the cost of not properly doing the job she's being paid for. There's an explosion from Clare right at the very end, that's incredibly apt and satisfying, hopefully resulting in the departure of said female. I hope she gets sued for professional negligence.
Will Clare end up in her role in the next book? Will Chris be able to pick up his shattered pieces and start living again? I'd kind of like to know but at the same time I wasn't fully vested in the characters as they weren't really believable. They lacked depth and the tale lacked simple meaningful conversations between couples.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Canelo for my reading pleasure.
I'm new to this author, and if the book's one in a series, that wasn't obvious and I wasn't lost.
Clare could've had her cop-other-half's job when Al took a job that'd keep him away from home 4 nights a week. Promotion for them both, but she preferred to keep her hand in, rather than go for management. So, she's overworking, has only their dog Benji for company, and there's not even a text or WhatsApp convo with Al for several chapters, making me wonder if he's dead and she's living in a world of her making. But nope, he's real and when he's home, they don't really have any time together as she's always working or being called out. Even Benji has a surrogate family who're actually his sitters.
The tale itself is decent but the personal relationships are too clunky, too obvious, too 'tries to create intrigue but doesn't quite get it right'. It's a tale of greed and threats, of big fish in small ponds and of the female who's ended up in the role that Clare didn't want being a climber, at the cost of not properly doing the job she's being paid for. There's an explosion from Clare right at the very end, that's incredibly apt and satisfying, hopefully resulting in the departure of said female. I hope she gets sued for professional negligence.
Will Clare end up in her role in the next book? Will Chris be able to pick up his shattered pieces and start living again? I'd kind of like to know but at the same time I wasn't fully vested in the characters as they weren't really believable. They lacked depth and the tale lacked simple meaningful conversations between couples.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Canelo for my reading pleasure.
March 17, 2026
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The DI Clare Mackay series is one I've really enjoyed. I've listened to a few of the earlier books on audio, which are narrated by the author. They are available on Hoopla. Everything is from Clare's point of view and she leads her team. I would read these in order due to the personal and career developments of Clare and her team members.
I was happy to get back to Clare and her team in Watch Them Fall. But things were kind of weird. Al has taken a job which has him away 3 nights a week for teaching. She and Chris aren't working together well; it's rather irritating. Claire has a new boss with her own agenda, more political, and not so much for protect and serve.
I appreciated watching Clare as she dealt with the personal issues of missing Al and struggled with whether she should have taken his old position which was offered. But she does like her current team and work. Al is ever supportive when he is home and understands her long hours.
The team's time is split between a huge protest march coming up, some burglaries where it doesn't seem like anything is taken, and some well disguised murders. Clare handles them well but is short of staff, particularly for the protest. Through careful digging of information, she eventually gets enough to pursue the culprits. One of them does a runner. And the protest is as much a disaster as Clare suspected.
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The DI Clare Mackay series is one I've really enjoyed. I've listened to a few of the earlier books on audio, which are narrated by the author. They are available on Hoopla. Everything is from Clare's point of view and she leads her team. I would read these in order due to the personal and career developments of Clare and her team members.
I was happy to get back to Clare and her team in Watch Them Fall. But things were kind of weird. Al has taken a job which has him away 3 nights a week for teaching. She and Chris aren't working together well; it's rather irritating. Claire has a new boss with her own agenda, more political, and not so much for protect and serve.
I appreciated watching Clare as she dealt with the personal issues of missing Al and struggled with whether she should have taken his old position which was offered. But she does like her current team and work. Al is ever supportive when he is home and understands her long hours.
The team's time is split between a huge protest march coming up, some burglaries where it doesn't seem like anything is taken, and some well disguised murders. Clare handles them well but is short of staff, particularly for the protest. Through careful digging of information, she eventually gets enough to pursue the culprits. One of them does a runner. And the protest is as much a disaster as Clare suspected.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A new luxury housing development is being planned in St Andrews and causing headaches for DI Clare Mackay. Protest marches threaten to become a real policing issue with the possible infiltration of organised troublemakers and the couple behind the development seem to have the ear of Clare’s immediate boss, who is insisting she spends a lot of time on a burglary at their home at which nothing seems to have been taken. At the same time, the body of an elderly man has been found in the harbour and resources are being used up that should be focusing on what seems to have been murder. But is there any link between all these cases?
This is the 10th book in the DI Clare Mackay series by Marion Todd and they just keep on getting better. The author knows her characters so well that everything just slots into place and makes sense from the first page. This series, to me, is one of the best descriptions of life for the police in a Scottish town – there are crimes to solve but there is also the everyday politics to handle with the management and the balancing of time and resource. It all comes together to give a real feel of people and place and you really care about the characters, and that is particularly the case in this story (no spoilers!)
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
This is the 10th book in the DI Clare Mackay series by Marion Todd and they just keep on getting better. The author knows her characters so well that everything just slots into place and makes sense from the first page. This series, to me, is one of the best descriptions of life for the police in a Scottish town – there are crimes to solve but there is also the everyday politics to handle with the management and the balancing of time and resource. It all comes together to give a real feel of people and place and you really care about the characters, and that is particularly the case in this story (no spoilers!)
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Watch them fall is the 10th instalment in the D I Clare Mackay series and the series gets better.
Clare and her team has her hands full when the body of Dennis Gibb is pulled out of St Andrews harbour. At first, they think that the man killed himself, but evidence shows that there is more to it and they start an investigation of his death. Then there is a string of burglaries which one of the victims are property developers that are involved in a new luxury housing estate. Which the locals are not too happy about. Because of this, in a few days’ time Clare and her team must prepare for a protest march against the Housing development.
This is another very enjoyable read by the author involving Clare and her team. This time she has a new member Patch who seamlessly joins the team. But this time she seems to have more pressure as she has taken a promotion in her job, and the Superintendent wants her to concentrate on the burglaries and not someone who is been murdered. She keeps thinking to herself if she was right to take the promotion in her job. But her team they trust her sems like she made the right decision. I loved the banter once again between the team. But was sad and the shock ending. I will look forward to the next one 5 stars from me.
Clare and her team has her hands full when the body of Dennis Gibb is pulled out of St Andrews harbour. At first, they think that the man killed himself, but evidence shows that there is more to it and they start an investigation of his death. Then there is a string of burglaries which one of the victims are property developers that are involved in a new luxury housing estate. Which the locals are not too happy about. Because of this, in a few days’ time Clare and her team must prepare for a protest march against the Housing development.
This is another very enjoyable read by the author involving Clare and her team. This time she has a new member Patch who seamlessly joins the team. But this time she seems to have more pressure as she has taken a promotion in her job, and the Superintendent wants her to concentrate on the burglaries and not someone who is been murdered. She keeps thinking to herself if she was right to take the promotion in her job. But her team they trust her sems like she made the right decision. I loved the banter once again between the team. But was sad and the shock ending. I will look forward to the next one 5 stars from me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
DI Clare Mackay #10
A body is pulled out of St. Andrews harbour. The cause of death - a blow to the back of the head. DI Clare Mackay and her team are immediately suspicious. This was no accident. Local, Dennis Gibb was murdered. Meanwhile a string of burglaries across town divide Clare's attention and she is drawn to a world of property developers, holiday lets and protesters determined to put a stop to the new building work. When another person linked to Dennis is murdered, the investigation becomes even more urgent, and Clare is led down a winding path to local secrets, hidden animosity and dodgy business deals.
St. Andrews, Scotland This time Clare has two crimes to investigate - a suspicious drowning and a burglary at a new housing development. Then another murder occurs that's linked to the drowning.
This is an action-packed, well-written and a great addition to the series. I like that we always get more background information on the characters. St. Andrews is one of my favourite places to visit and Marion describes it perfectly.
Published 12th March
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Canelo and the author #MarionTodd for my ARC of #WatchThemFall in exchange for an honest review.
A body is pulled out of St. Andrews harbour. The cause of death - a blow to the back of the head. DI Clare Mackay and her team are immediately suspicious. This was no accident. Local, Dennis Gibb was murdered. Meanwhile a string of burglaries across town divide Clare's attention and she is drawn to a world of property developers, holiday lets and protesters determined to put a stop to the new building work. When another person linked to Dennis is murdered, the investigation becomes even more urgent, and Clare is led down a winding path to local secrets, hidden animosity and dodgy business deals.
St. Andrews, Scotland This time Clare has two crimes to investigate - a suspicious drowning and a burglary at a new housing development. Then another murder occurs that's linked to the drowning.
This is an action-packed, well-written and a great addition to the series. I like that we always get more background information on the characters. St. Andrews is one of my favourite places to visit and Marion describes it perfectly.
Published 12th March
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Canelo and the author #MarionTodd for my ARC of #WatchThemFall in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Watch Them Fall is a great addition to this authors Clare Mackay series. Here Clare and the team investigate a burglary and a murder but is all as it seems? I really enjoyed this read, it started off well and I was drawn into the story and its characters right from the start and it held my attention all the way through to the end. I really like the main character, she is relatable, down to earth and so likeable. I love the friendships, the banter and camaraderie Clare has with her team. There are a lot of threads in the story that had me wondering many times how everything would come together, and I think the plot is very well thought out, believable and certainly kept me guessing as to what would happen next. I think the pacing is good and the author does well in creating tension, mystery and suspense in her writing that makes for a good and entertaining read. All in all a very good read that I thoroughly enjoyed. If you like police, crime procedurals then I think you'd enjoy this book although if you are new to this author you're best to read the series in order to know Mackay from the beginning.
4 stars
4 stars
March 20, 2026
Watch Them Fall, written by Marion Todd, is up there with her usual top stories. I enjoyed the police procedurals; the story was well plotted, it was fast-paced, and the characters were well presented.
The lives and personalities of the officers in Clare Mackay’s team make the story believable. Though Clare is intelligent and tough and is loved by her staff, she also has problems with her personal life with her partner, Al, and her dog, Benjy.
The tale starts with a body found in a harbour, which was found to be suspicious. Then a robbery occurred against a couple of developers who were to construct an expensive housing development that the local population opposed. Clare and her team had a murder to solve, investigate the robbery, and organize the response to a protest march about the development. Then another murder occurred, and the police team had literally full hands, with fewer police available to assist. The ending was excellent but sad, and the Superintendent was brought to her knees satisfactorily.
Ms Todd blended the story perfectly, and it was easy to follow. I would recommend this book and all of Marion Todd’s books to anyone who loves police mysteries.
The lives and personalities of the officers in Clare Mackay’s team make the story believable. Though Clare is intelligent and tough and is loved by her staff, she also has problems with her personal life with her partner, Al, and her dog, Benjy.
The tale starts with a body found in a harbour, which was found to be suspicious. Then a robbery occurred against a couple of developers who were to construct an expensive housing development that the local population opposed. Clare and her team had a murder to solve, investigate the robbery, and organize the response to a protest march about the development. Then another murder occurred, and the police team had literally full hands, with fewer police available to assist. The ending was excellent but sad, and the Superintendent was brought to her knees satisfactorily.
Ms Todd blended the story perfectly, and it was easy to follow. I would recommend this book and all of Marion Todd’s books to anyone who loves police mysteries.
March 27, 2026
What the actual…?!?! 🤯📚
Okay, I need a moment after finishing Watch Them Fall because WOW. This is book 10 in the DI Clare Mackay series and hands down my absolute favourite so far. That ending?! Completely blindsided. I did not see it coming.
You know that feeling when you’re watching a gripping thriller, completely locked in, barely blinking, heart racing, reminding yourself to breathe… and then BAM — everything hits at once? That was this book. I haven’t been this shocked since Time Is Running Out by Michael Wood (and honestly… I’m in a huff with you Ms Todd 😂).
If you’ve been following this series like I have, you’ll know how invested you get in Clare, Chris, and the whole team. This one takes it to another level. Tension, twists, and that final stretch? Absolutely unreal.
I actually don’t own this one physically yet (shocking, I know!) — I grabbed it on Kobo for £3.99 because I couldn’t wait, but now I need that paperback on my shelf.
No spoilers here, but I am already desperate for book 11. I need to know what happens next… and let’s just say, I really hope Penny gets what’s coming to her 👀🔥
Okay, I need a moment after finishing Watch Them Fall because WOW. This is book 10 in the DI Clare Mackay series and hands down my absolute favourite so far. That ending?! Completely blindsided. I did not see it coming.
You know that feeling when you’re watching a gripping thriller, completely locked in, barely blinking, heart racing, reminding yourself to breathe… and then BAM — everything hits at once? That was this book. I haven’t been this shocked since Time Is Running Out by Michael Wood (and honestly… I’m in a huff with you Ms Todd 😂).
If you’ve been following this series like I have, you’ll know how invested you get in Clare, Chris, and the whole team. This one takes it to another level. Tension, twists, and that final stretch? Absolutely unreal.
I actually don’t own this one physically yet (shocking, I know!) — I grabbed it on Kobo for £3.99 because I couldn’t wait, but now I need that paperback on my shelf.
No spoilers here, but I am already desperate for book 11. I need to know what happens next… and let’s just say, I really hope Penny gets what’s coming to her 👀🔥
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to Marion and NetGalley for allowing me to read Watch Them Fall before the publication date.
This is the latest book in the D.I. Clare MacKay series but it can be read as a standalone book.
It is an easy read whilst engaging the reader into the multiple threads and characters in the story. ( OK…I read it in 2 days)
D.I. Clare Mackay’s personal and professional life is in turmoil. Her partner Al ( previously referred to as the DCI) has been promoted to Superintendent in charge of a new department at the Police College in Kincardine. The downside is the role requires Al to reside at Tulliallan for 5 nights a week.
Clare soon realises the impact this will have on their domestic arrangements, not least Al’s culinary skills, and starts to wonder whether she made the wrong decision when she had declined a promotion which would have been a 9 to 5 desk job.
With Supt. Penny Meakin micromanaging the team’s workload by prioritising the interests of the wealthy and well connected residents, tensions rise.
This is the latest book in the D.I. Clare MacKay series but it can be read as a standalone book.
It is an easy read whilst engaging the reader into the multiple threads and characters in the story. ( OK…I read it in 2 days)
D.I. Clare Mackay’s personal and professional life is in turmoil. Her partner Al ( previously referred to as the DCI) has been promoted to Superintendent in charge of a new department at the Police College in Kincardine. The downside is the role requires Al to reside at Tulliallan for 5 nights a week.
Clare soon realises the impact this will have on their domestic arrangements, not least Al’s culinary skills, and starts to wonder whether she made the wrong decision when she had declined a promotion which would have been a 9 to 5 desk job.
With Supt. Penny Meakin micromanaging the team’s workload by prioritising the interests of the wealthy and well connected residents, tensions rise.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I approached Watch Them Fall as a newcomer to the series, entirely unaware that it was the tenth installment until I began writing this review. Marion Todd has a remarkable gift for narrative clarity; I never felt as though I was missing the context of DI Clare Mackay’s history, and the story felt perfectly accessible.
The vivid, atmospheric portrayal of St. Andrews provided a beautifully chilly backdrop that has left me eager to go back and read the first nine books. What truly set this procedural apart was the masterful plotting. I usually pride myself on solving the mystery well before the midpoint, but Todd completely stumped me. It was a refreshing—and delightfully frustrating—experience to be kept guessing until the final pages. The twists were both clever and well-earned, making this a high-stakes, unpredictable read. Whether you are a dedicated fan or a first-time reader, I highly recommend this top-tier procedural. My thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC.
The vivid, atmospheric portrayal of St. Andrews provided a beautifully chilly backdrop that has left me eager to go back and read the first nine books. What truly set this procedural apart was the masterful plotting. I usually pride myself on solving the mystery well before the midpoint, but Todd completely stumped me. It was a refreshing—and delightfully frustrating—experience to be kept guessing until the final pages. The twists were both clever and well-earned, making this a high-stakes, unpredictable read. Whether you are a dedicated fan or a first-time reader, I highly recommend this top-tier procedural. My thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is #10 in the DI Clare Mackay series but can easily be read as a standalone.
I love this series, definitely one of my favourite police procedurals.
The body of a local man, Dennis, is pulled from the river. It seems as if it’s a suicide until he is found to have a massive blow to the back of his head, so Clare and her team are on the case. They already have their hands full because Clare’s boss, Penny, is insisting that they prioritise policing a forthcoming protest, and then there is a string of burglaries as well.
This series has just enough about the team’s personal lives to be interesting and not to overtake the main story. Clare’s partner, Al, has taken a new job with promotion to Superintendent, but it means that he’ll be away most of the week and Clare will be on her own, albeit with her dog for company.
I’m always gripped to the instalments in this series and this book was no exception. Absolutely brilliant.
Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
I love this series, definitely one of my favourite police procedurals.
The body of a local man, Dennis, is pulled from the river. It seems as if it’s a suicide until he is found to have a massive blow to the back of his head, so Clare and her team are on the case. They already have their hands full because Clare’s boss, Penny, is insisting that they prioritise policing a forthcoming protest, and then there is a string of burglaries as well.
This series has just enough about the team’s personal lives to be interesting and not to overtake the main story. Clare’s partner, Al, has taken a new job with promotion to Superintendent, but it means that he’ll be away most of the week and Clare will be on her own, albeit with her dog for company.
I’m always gripped to the instalments in this series and this book was no exception. Absolutely brilliant.
Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another gem of Tartan Noir!💎
I never miss a Marion Todd police procedural. Here a local property development scheme causes major headaches and a cottage owner's death starts the ball rolling on a series of crimes.
Watch Them Fall was great storytelling with an on point balance between the investigations and the private lives of DI Clare McKay and her team. I really like Clare, usually calm, collected and a sympathetic leader to her small team of officers in St. Andrews, on the east coast of Scotland. But in this book, Clare is overwhelmed and critical of her superior, upset by her partner's new job separating them most of the week, and questioning her career decisions. She's so real and truly cares about both the work and her staff. Normally I prefer this genre with focus more on the case, less on the officers' private lives, but not with this one!
Great plot and characters, easy to read, with a sad twist at the end.
Thanks to Canelo Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
I never miss a Marion Todd police procedural. Here a local property development scheme causes major headaches and a cottage owner's death starts the ball rolling on a series of crimes.
Watch Them Fall was great storytelling with an on point balance between the investigations and the private lives of DI Clare McKay and her team. I really like Clare, usually calm, collected and a sympathetic leader to her small team of officers in St. Andrews, on the east coast of Scotland. But in this book, Clare is overwhelmed and critical of her superior, upset by her partner's new job separating them most of the week, and questioning her career decisions. She's so real and truly cares about both the work and her staff. Normally I prefer this genre with focus more on the case, less on the officers' private lives, but not with this one!
Great plot and characters, easy to read, with a sad twist at the end.
Thanks to Canelo Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A body is hauled out of St Andrews harbour. The cause of death a blow to the back of the head. DI Clare Mackay and her team are immediately suspicious. This was no accident. Local Dennis Gibb was murdered. Meanwhile a string of burglaries across town divide Clare's attention and she is drawn into a world of property developers, holiday lets and protestors determined to put a stop to the new building works. When another person linked to Dennis is murdered, the investigation becomes even more urgent and Clare is led down a winding path to local secrets, hidden animosity and dodgy business deals
The tenth outing for Clare & her team, whilst each book can be read on its own I’ve loved getting to know Clare. An interesting case & I was intrigued by the two cases & I wondered if they were linked. I was drawn in from the start & thoroughly enjoyed it & read in two sittings. Roll on book eleven
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The tenth outing for Clare & her team, whilst each book can be read on its own I’ve loved getting to know Clare. An interesting case & I was intrigued by the two cases & I wondered if they were linked. I was drawn in from the start & thoroughly enjoyed it & read in two sittings. Roll on book eleven
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
April 5, 2026
I have enjoyed this series and this one was no exception. The plot is fairly intricate but the team take it on and the seemingly different subplots come together. My only criticism is with Penny, Clare's senior. She came across as irritating throughout the book and blocked the investigations without any explanation. Clare and Al also have their own difficulties, as Al starts working away from home for much of the week. I liked Patch, but would have appreciated getting to know her better, she seemed to be little more than a name and some one who looked at endless imaging here. Hopefully that will change in the future.
The book was fastpaced and interesting though and the crimes all came across as fairly credible. The setting of St Andrew's was not really described in detail here, some repetition about the students in their gowns and expensive house prices, but that was more or less it. I have given other books in the series 5 stars, more criticism about this one. It is a good read nevertheless
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
The book was fastpaced and interesting though and the crimes all came across as fairly credible. The setting of St Andrew's was not really described in detail here, some repetition about the students in their gowns and expensive house prices, but that was more or less it. I have given other books in the series 5 stars, more criticism about this one. It is a good read nevertheless
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
For a few years, I kept seeing Marion Todd’s books popping up from time to time but have never taken the time to read any novels. I decided to give “Watch Them Fall” a try, and man, I am not disappointed.
This is book 10 in the DC Clare Mackay series. There is a bit of a learning curve since I was not familiar with the main cast of characters. It’s not a steep learning curve though. You will be invested in the characters in no time.
The mysteries in this novel are as good as any that I have read. Following the procedure of their investigation was addictive. But what will stand out to you the most will be the ending of the novel. So well written.
DC Mackay is a worthy hero and worth checking out if you have not done so.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.
This is book 10 in the DC Clare Mackay series. There is a bit of a learning curve since I was not familiar with the main cast of characters. It’s not a steep learning curve though. You will be invested in the characters in no time.
The mysteries in this novel are as good as any that I have read. Following the procedure of their investigation was addictive. But what will stand out to you the most will be the ending of the novel. So well written.
DC Mackay is a worthy hero and worth checking out if you have not done so.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.
February 9, 2026
The next instalment of the DI Clare Mackay series- and an early one for me thanks to an advance copy from NetGalley in return for my honest review.
Clare and her colleagues have become like familiar friends, having read all the books now. It’s a great series- you don’t have to read them in order but it really helps to get to know the characters and fully appreciate the books. As a local to the area, it’s still nice when my home town or places I know are mentioned!
I’ll be honest, I’ve not found the last few books in the series to be as great as the earlier ones, but the love of the characters has kept me going. While this one started off slowly and took a while to get into, it was a really good read. A bit of a complicated plot line but resolved well in the end.
There’s more I can say, but no spoilers here- all I’ll say is that the next book is eagerly awaited!
Clare and her colleagues have become like familiar friends, having read all the books now. It’s a great series- you don’t have to read them in order but it really helps to get to know the characters and fully appreciate the books. As a local to the area, it’s still nice when my home town or places I know are mentioned!
I’ll be honest, I’ve not found the last few books in the series to be as great as the earlier ones, but the love of the characters has kept me going. While this one started off slowly and took a while to get into, it was a really good read. A bit of a complicated plot line but resolved well in the end.
There’s more I can say, but no spoilers here- all I’ll say is that the next book is eagerly awaited!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Perfect Ten!
The tenth instalment for Clare Mackay is a triumphant blend of meticulous police work and deep emotional resonance.
Marion Todd has once again created a high-stakes investigation that is as complex as it is gripping, but it’s the heart of the book, the characters, that make it truly shine.
Despite turning down a promotion, Clare remains a leader with empathy and grit, and seeing her navigate the immense pressure of this multi layered case was captivating.
The camaraderie and banter within her loyal team are second to none, even newcomer Patch fits in seamlessly. I found myself reading into the wee small hours, thoroughly immersed in the atmosphere.
It’s a meticulously plotted procedural with a heartbreaking conclusion tied up as neatly as a box of Wagon Wheels wrapped in a bow.
My thanks to Netgalley and Canelo Crime for the ARC. This is my own opinion.
The tenth instalment for Clare Mackay is a triumphant blend of meticulous police work and deep emotional resonance.
Marion Todd has once again created a high-stakes investigation that is as complex as it is gripping, but it’s the heart of the book, the characters, that make it truly shine.
Despite turning down a promotion, Clare remains a leader with empathy and grit, and seeing her navigate the immense pressure of this multi layered case was captivating.
The camaraderie and banter within her loyal team are second to none, even newcomer Patch fits in seamlessly. I found myself reading into the wee small hours, thoroughly immersed in the atmosphere.
It’s a meticulously plotted procedural with a heartbreaking conclusion tied up as neatly as a box of Wagon Wheels wrapped in a bow.
My thanks to Netgalley and Canelo Crime for the ARC. This is my own opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another good book in the series. In this one, DI Clare Mackay is struggling with changes in her home life and career as Al starts his new job, being away from home for most of the week. She questions herself over her decision to turn down a 9-5 job and becomes overwhelmed with a new case and dealing with the politics of the situation with her superior Penny. She ponders quitting as the cases build up and she is told to focus on the one she thinks is less of a priority, while trying also to arrange policing for a protest march that she knows could go very wrong. As usual, her team help her through especially Chris, Max, Sara, Jim and Patch. There are some shocking events in the book, very emotionally written.
This series continues to go from strength to strength.
This series continues to go from strength to strength.
February 10, 2026
I am grateful to NetGalley for granting my request for an advanced copy of “Watch Them Fall.” I am new to this author and didn’t really know what to expect. I rate this a solid 3 stars. For me, I would have liked more insight into Penny’s character. I did not feel enough resolution with each story. The Freeman’s story ended abruptly and I would have preferred more insight into both Dennis’s and Steve’s demise. Why did Bradley make a cameo? Will we learn more of him later in the series? I had more questions than answers. Clare’s character was well developed and she displays a strong leadership in navigating her team from the first chapter to the last. I may have to read another by Marion Todd to see if a few characters resurface and if I can have a bit more depth to the cases.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
SO pleased to get my hands on this, I really enjoy Clare, Al,Chris and Benjy, and of course the others.
Clare seemed a bit too grumpy this time I have to be honest, I don't think she needed to moan quite so much about home life, but maybe had cause to complain more about work life.
It was a twisty old few days, lots of things tangled up together, and just when I thought the drama was over, along comes more.
I really appreciate Chris, he adds a bit of humour with his wagon wheels and general banter.
It's a great addition to a very good series.
I'm hoping it continues for quite some time.
Thanks to netgalley for the free digital copy.
Clare seemed a bit too grumpy this time I have to be honest, I don't think she needed to moan quite so much about home life, but maybe had cause to complain more about work life.
It was a twisty old few days, lots of things tangled up together, and just when I thought the drama was over, along comes more.
I really appreciate Chris, he adds a bit of humour with his wagon wheels and general banter.
It's a great addition to a very good series.
I'm hoping it continues for quite some time.
Thanks to netgalley for the free digital copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was thrilled to see that there was a new book out in the DI Clare Mackay series! She is one of my favourite characters in police procedurals.
The DI is hard pressed to solve a series of burglaries, and a murder.
She wants to make the murder a priority, but orders from above ensure that she makes the burglaries a priority... suspicious?
Clare's personal life is also stressing her out, and relationship problems of one of her team members also worries her.
I like the fact that these novels don't only centre on the crimes and investigations, but also incorporate the personal lives of the characters. This makes them more 'real' to me.
I recommend. 4/5 stars from me.
The DI is hard pressed to solve a series of burglaries, and a murder.
She wants to make the murder a priority, but orders from above ensure that she makes the burglaries a priority... suspicious?
Clare's personal life is also stressing her out, and relationship problems of one of her team members also worries her.
I like the fact that these novels don't only centre on the crimes and investigations, but also incorporate the personal lives of the characters. This makes them more 'real' to me.
I recommend. 4/5 stars from me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Marion Todd writes wonderful crime fiction. I love the warmth with which she writes her characters and the care with which she crafts the police procedural elements. There’s a real challenge in a long running series in balancing the main characters arc with the specific crime to be solved. This book, the tenth in a series, delivers both superbly. Claire’s a little ambivalent about policing in this one and the criminals particularly despicable. So too is Claire’s immediate boss. I found this one gripping and - because Marion Todd makes us care - very sad.
Thanks Marion Todd for writing this excellent book and the publisher and NetGalley for sharing a review copy.
Thanks Marion Todd for writing this excellent book and the publisher and NetGalley for sharing a review copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book.
What a gut wrenching ending! I was not prepared for that. And hooray to Clare for standing up to her boss; that scene was fantastic. Another winner in this series. I always love how seemingly separate cases come together and how Clare and team come to their conclusions. Much of this can be guessed before the answers are divulged but doesn't stop your enjoyment along the way. I liked the new officer, Patch, and it would be fun to see her in future books showcasing her (literal) strength with some training sessions, as Clare mentioned. Highly recommend this book and series.
What a gut wrenching ending! I was not prepared for that. And hooray to Clare for standing up to her boss; that scene was fantastic. Another winner in this series. I always love how seemingly separate cases come together and how Clare and team come to their conclusions. Much of this can be guessed before the answers are divulged but doesn't stop your enjoyment along the way. I liked the new officer, Patch, and it would be fun to see her in future books showcasing her (literal) strength with some training sessions, as Clare mentioned. Highly recommend this book and series.
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