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DI Alec McKay #2
Death Parts Us
When a retired cop is murdered on a remote Scottish Isle, DI Alec McKay must dig into the man's corrupt past in this British crime thriller series.
Twenty years ago, Jackie Galloway was a senior cop with a bad reputation. But after crossing the wrong people, his career was ruined. He eked out his last days succumbing to dementia on Scotland's Black Isle, supported by his long-suffering wife, Bridie. When he's found dead, the police assume it's an accident--until Bridie reveals that he's been receiving mysterious letters containing only the "NOT FORGOTTEN. NOT FORGIVEN."
Struggling to come to terms with the loss of his estranged wife Chrissie, DI Alec McKay is living in isolation on the Black Isle. McKay had once worked for Galloway as a junior officer and has bad memories of the man and his methods. Now he finds himself investigating Galloway's death. But when suspicion falls on him and more police officers are murdered, the pressure is on for McKay to solve the case.
Twenty years ago, Jackie Galloway was a senior cop with a bad reputation. But after crossing the wrong people, his career was ruined. He eked out his last days succumbing to dementia on Scotland's Black Isle, supported by his long-suffering wife, Bridie. When he's found dead, the police assume it's an accident--until Bridie reveals that he's been receiving mysterious letters containing only the "NOT FORGOTTEN. NOT FORGIVEN."
Struggling to come to terms with the loss of his estranged wife Chrissie, DI Alec McKay is living in isolation on the Black Isle. McKay had once worked for Galloway as a junior officer and has bad memories of the man and his methods. Now he finds himself investigating Galloway's death. But when suspicion falls on him and more police officers are murdered, the pressure is on for McKay to solve the case.
366 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 13, 2017
161 people are currently reading
186 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
February 4, 2018
4.5 stars
The one New Year’s resolution I made was to put a serious dent in my TBR pile, specifically my kindle. As I flicked through the covers, this one caught my eye & I thought right, here goes. My only regret is finding out I had a great book sitting there all this time.
Meet DI Alec McKay. He’s a middle aged cop who’s recently rented a cottage in Scotland’s Black Isle to give his estranged wife time to ponder the state of their marriage. Good thing there’s plenty to distract him. Yonks ago when he was a newbie, he worked with a senior cop named Jackie Galloway. Galloway was the last of a breed, known for getting confessions with his…uh…”exuberant” interview techniques. He was mean, bent & the station bully. Now he’s dead.
McKay might believe he succumbed to declining health if not for the pile of threatening letters he’d been receiving. But it’s been 20 years since Galloway was forced into retirement. Who waits that long for revenge?
A day later & he has even more reason to suspect something dodgy is going on in his new neighbourhood. In short order there is an unreasonable number of bodies littering the area & all have ties to Galloway. Of course if you go back far enough, so do McKay & his boss DCI Helena Grant. McKay ends up sidelined from the investigation but that’s ok….he’s living smack-dab in the middle of the action & got nothing but time to do some covert poking around.
One of this book’s biggest strengths is its cast. And I can’t tell you how refreshing it was to follow a small department of cops who actually like each other. No back stabbing, no personal politics. Just well fleshed out characters with enough history to make them feel like real people. Grant started out with McKay & is a smart, tough but fair boss who knows her DI’s foibles & tics all too well. DS Ginny Horton rounds out the crew & features in a creepy subplot that runs along side the main story. Peripheral characters add colour & context as they pop up during the investigation.
But the book belongs to McKay & he’s more than capable of doing the heavy lifting. He’s a smart, intuitive cop who’s just a tad down on his luck. We get enough of his failing marriage to understand what happened but I appreciated the lack of domestic drama/angst. His acerbic wit & black humour makes the dialogue sparkle, particularly in conversations with Grant & Horton.
The pacing & smooth prose makes for effortless reading, one of those books where you’re surprised to see how far you’ve gone when you finally look up. And waiting at the end is a cracker of a finale. It’s a great example of compelling police procedural crossed with good story telling. I’ve definitely been missing out & look forward to the next book.
Now, I wonder if I have any other little gems lurking in the pile…..
The one New Year’s resolution I made was to put a serious dent in my TBR pile, specifically my kindle. As I flicked through the covers, this one caught my eye & I thought right, here goes. My only regret is finding out I had a great book sitting there all this time.
Meet DI Alec McKay. He’s a middle aged cop who’s recently rented a cottage in Scotland’s Black Isle to give his estranged wife time to ponder the state of their marriage. Good thing there’s plenty to distract him. Yonks ago when he was a newbie, he worked with a senior cop named Jackie Galloway. Galloway was the last of a breed, known for getting confessions with his…uh…”exuberant” interview techniques. He was mean, bent & the station bully. Now he’s dead.
McKay might believe he succumbed to declining health if not for the pile of threatening letters he’d been receiving. But it’s been 20 years since Galloway was forced into retirement. Who waits that long for revenge?
A day later & he has even more reason to suspect something dodgy is going on in his new neighbourhood. In short order there is an unreasonable number of bodies littering the area & all have ties to Galloway. Of course if you go back far enough, so do McKay & his boss DCI Helena Grant. McKay ends up sidelined from the investigation but that’s ok….he’s living smack-dab in the middle of the action & got nothing but time to do some covert poking around.
One of this book’s biggest strengths is its cast. And I can’t tell you how refreshing it was to follow a small department of cops who actually like each other. No back stabbing, no personal politics. Just well fleshed out characters with enough history to make them feel like real people. Grant started out with McKay & is a smart, tough but fair boss who knows her DI’s foibles & tics all too well. DS Ginny Horton rounds out the crew & features in a creepy subplot that runs along side the main story. Peripheral characters add colour & context as they pop up during the investigation.
But the book belongs to McKay & he’s more than capable of doing the heavy lifting. He’s a smart, intuitive cop who’s just a tad down on his luck. We get enough of his failing marriage to understand what happened but I appreciated the lack of domestic drama/angst. His acerbic wit & black humour makes the dialogue sparkle, particularly in conversations with Grant & Horton.
The pacing & smooth prose makes for effortless reading, one of those books where you’re surprised to see how far you’ve gone when you finally look up. And waiting at the end is a cracker of a finale. It’s a great example of compelling police procedural crossed with good story telling. I’ve definitely been missing out & look forward to the next book.
Now, I wonder if I have any other little gems lurking in the pile…..
September 30, 2017
I’m not sure I should say this about a crime book but, I adored it. Why? I loved the fabulous setting which brought so much atmosphere to the story and I absolutely adored DI Alec Mckay.
DI Alex Mckay is such a brilliant character. He is a bit of a cantankerous old so and so but he brings a bit of humour into the story from being set in his ways and his off hand remarks. I could easily visualise him in my head and think he is crying out to have his crime series on television. Certainly can’t wait for more in the series.
The story line of police officers being murdered certainly held my interest. I wanted to know as much as the police why someone would go around killing them and especially why these certain individuals. I have to say you could have blown me over like a feather when all is revealed. No way in this world did I ever get an inkling of who the killer was and it certainly made for a jaw dropping moment. I have no doubt unless you are Columbo that this story will shock and surprise you.
Death Parts Us is a highly entertaining and gripping read. Scotland’s Black Isle is very much brought to life by the author and I felt like I was stood next to the characters absorbing everything that was around them. Great book and highly recommended.
DI Alex Mckay is such a brilliant character. He is a bit of a cantankerous old so and so but he brings a bit of humour into the story from being set in his ways and his off hand remarks. I could easily visualise him in my head and think he is crying out to have his crime series on television. Certainly can’t wait for more in the series.
The story line of police officers being murdered certainly held my interest. I wanted to know as much as the police why someone would go around killing them and especially why these certain individuals. I have to say you could have blown me over like a feather when all is revealed. No way in this world did I ever get an inkling of who the killer was and it certainly made for a jaw dropping moment. I have no doubt unless you are Columbo that this story will shock and surprise you.
Death Parts Us is a highly entertaining and gripping read. Scotland’s Black Isle is very much brought to life by the author and I felt like I was stood next to the characters absorbing everything that was around them. Great book and highly recommended.
September 30, 2017
Although this book is the second in the series, it makes an interesting and enjoyable stand alone novel. When retired policemen begin to be found dead, Alec McKay and his team start investigating. As they delve into the lives and final cases of those who have died, they begin to realise just how complex the case is.
I liked the setting of the story. I could picture the remote locations and hear the locals speak as I read. McKay's team have their work cut out for them, with a number of threads overlapping each other, and team members being pulled in different directions. I enjoyed the working dynamics between the investigators, especially McKay's personality and how despite his best intentions, he'd still get in trouble with his superiors.
Despite the case being so complicated, the story remains enjoyable and doesn't become confusing due to Alex's clear and concise writing style. The pace was steady throughout, but sped up towards the end. I didn't work out how the investigation would be resolved, but the ending brought all the strands together well.
I liked the setting of the story. I could picture the remote locations and hear the locals speak as I read. McKay's team have their work cut out for them, with a number of threads overlapping each other, and team members being pulled in different directions. I enjoyed the working dynamics between the investigators, especially McKay's personality and how despite his best intentions, he'd still get in trouble with his superiors.
Despite the case being so complicated, the story remains enjoyable and doesn't become confusing due to Alex's clear and concise writing style. The pace was steady throughout, but sped up towards the end. I didn't work out how the investigation would be resolved, but the ending brought all the strands together well.
September 28, 2017
Looks like I have just found myself a new author and a new detective series to read! This is the second book in the DI Alec McKay series which I guarantee can be read has a standalone, because I haven't read the first one.
So here I am thinking oh boy not another detective book. After reading so many sometimes it gets abit same old for me. And to be totally honest I am more a crime thriller reader than police procedure. So for me there has to be that something different about it. Well I wasn't disappointed…. what can I say but I loved it! This story certainly has the thriller in it with a story line that will keep you guessing until the end.
The author grabbed my attention from the start and kept me there until the end. I read this in two sittings I couldn't put it down. I would of definitely read it in one go if it wasn't the fact that I had to get up for work.
This is a fast paced easy read full of twists and turns that I didn't see coming not to mention the OMG moments. Just when I thought I knew where the story was going the author would totally throw me off the scent!
Set in Black Isle Scotland, I could hear the characters accents jumping out the pages. DI Alec McKay isn't the happiest person in the world he is moody and straight talking but I did love his sarcastic sense of humour, I found myself having a chuckle throughout the story. He kind of reminded me of my dad lol
This has certainly ticked all the boxes for me and I am looking forward to reading Candles and Roses which I have just downloaded. I highly recommend this book giving it 4.5 stars.
Thank you to Sarah Hardy at Bloodhound Books for inviting me to take part in this Blog Blitz.
So here I am thinking oh boy not another detective book. After reading so many sometimes it gets abit same old for me. And to be totally honest I am more a crime thriller reader than police procedure. So for me there has to be that something different about it. Well I wasn't disappointed…. what can I say but I loved it! This story certainly has the thriller in it with a story line that will keep you guessing until the end.
The author grabbed my attention from the start and kept me there until the end. I read this in two sittings I couldn't put it down. I would of definitely read it in one go if it wasn't the fact that I had to get up for work.
This is a fast paced easy read full of twists and turns that I didn't see coming not to mention the OMG moments. Just when I thought I knew where the story was going the author would totally throw me off the scent!
Set in Black Isle Scotland, I could hear the characters accents jumping out the pages. DI Alec McKay isn't the happiest person in the world he is moody and straight talking but I did love his sarcastic sense of humour, I found myself having a chuckle throughout the story. He kind of reminded me of my dad lol
This has certainly ticked all the boxes for me and I am looking forward to reading Candles and Roses which I have just downloaded. I highly recommend this book giving it 4.5 stars.
Thank you to Sarah Hardy at Bloodhound Books for inviting me to take part in this Blog Blitz.
October 1, 2017
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I thought that this was a brilliant book and as soon as I finished I knew it was going to have to be a 5 stars read and up there with my top crime reads of the year! I loved the pace and the twists and turns throughout the plot and the setting with it being somewhere I know and love - I always love a book that's set somewhere I've actually been! As soon as I finished the book I went and downloaded the first book in the series now as clearly I've been missing out on some excellent writing!! Definitely an author I'm going to be looking for in the future - a superb book!!!
I thought that this was a brilliant book and as soon as I finished I knew it was going to have to be a 5 stars read and up there with my top crime reads of the year! I loved the pace and the twists and turns throughout the plot and the setting with it being somewhere I know and love - I always love a book that's set somewhere I've actually been! As soon as I finished the book I went and downloaded the first book in the series now as clearly I've been missing out on some excellent writing!! Definitely an author I'm going to be looking for in the future - a superb book!!!
September 29, 2017
Death Parts Us is the second book in the DI Alec McKay series – I stupidly had forgotten that this was book two therefore went straight in without reading book one, Candles and Roses, first. However, whilst there are references to events in the first book, this can be read as a standalone. Although, I’d recommend reading book one to get a sense of the setting and the characters – I was planning on going back to book one but think the ‘whodunit’ suspense may be obvious following comments at the end of this one!
DI Alec McKay is back but struggling to adjust to his separation but is trying to give his estranged wife the space that she needs by finding alternative accommodation. At the same time, an old policeman is found dead, presumably from a tragic accident as he is suffering from dementia and appears to have drifted off into the garden alone. That is until another member of his team is found dead in suspicious circumstances…is there a connection. Unfortunately for McKay, before he can truly get his teeth into the case – he is taken off it and put on enforced annual leave as it turns out that he was the last person to see the next victim alive. This results in McKay’s team having to work without him and for Alec to deal with his enforced rest and isolation.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the story line which kept me gripped right through to the end. It is extremely easy to become immersed in the investigation as the narrative is fast paced and full of twists and turns. Whilst it is clear that Galloway and his team were not the nicest of cops back in the day and therefore these murders are linked, what isn’t clear until Walter’s is ready to reveal it is why? Why would someone wait twenty years for their revenge which is what this is pointing too?
Death Parts Us is set in the Black Isle and Inverness areas of Scotland which are brilliantly brought to life through Walter’s use of local dialect and the descriptions of the landscape. At times you really feel the cold and darkness which brilliantly contributes to the overall plot.
A great detective thriller and I look forward to McKay’s next investigation!
DI Alec McKay is back but struggling to adjust to his separation but is trying to give his estranged wife the space that she needs by finding alternative accommodation. At the same time, an old policeman is found dead, presumably from a tragic accident as he is suffering from dementia and appears to have drifted off into the garden alone. That is until another member of his team is found dead in suspicious circumstances…is there a connection. Unfortunately for McKay, before he can truly get his teeth into the case – he is taken off it and put on enforced annual leave as it turns out that he was the last person to see the next victim alive. This results in McKay’s team having to work without him and for Alec to deal with his enforced rest and isolation.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the story line which kept me gripped right through to the end. It is extremely easy to become immersed in the investigation as the narrative is fast paced and full of twists and turns. Whilst it is clear that Galloway and his team were not the nicest of cops back in the day and therefore these murders are linked, what isn’t clear until Walter’s is ready to reveal it is why? Why would someone wait twenty years for their revenge which is what this is pointing too?
Death Parts Us is set in the Black Isle and Inverness areas of Scotland which are brilliantly brought to life through Walter’s use of local dialect and the descriptions of the landscape. At times you really feel the cold and darkness which brilliantly contributes to the overall plot.
A great detective thriller and I look forward to McKay’s next investigation!
September 28, 2017
20 years after being kicked out of the Police Force Jackie Galloway is in the latter stages of dementia when he dies. His long suffering wife finds him at the bottom of a steep drop at the end of the garden. Did he fall? Why would a man who rarely moves decide to take a walk in the garden? Why would someone decide to commit murder 20 years after the event? So many questions and very few clues Alec McKay is flummoxed.
As more retired officers from the same era meet their deaths the team is struggling to find a way to fit all the pieces together. When McKay is the last person to see and speak with a victim he is removed from active duty leaving the team even shorter staffed than normal.
When Alec and Ginny appear to be in the murderer’s sights things start to hot up as the search to stop the killing is stepped up.
The story moves along at a steady pace as the reader is taken on a journey with many twists and turns. As the adrenaline starts to flow and the pieces begin to slot together we approach a dramatic conclusion that is totally unexpected.
This is my second outing with Alec McKay. He is a very realistic character damaged by family tragedy he is struggling with his personal life and when his career appears to be under threat his choices are go under or fight back. The latter always being the action of the detective we know and love.
Ginny comes more into her own in this story as her personal life becomes entangled with the case in ways nobody expected. She makes a good partner for Alec as they both have totally different personalities that combine to make a very effective team.
I loved this book it lacked the blood and gore I like and found it a little slow going in places but overall a very good read
As more retired officers from the same era meet their deaths the team is struggling to find a way to fit all the pieces together. When McKay is the last person to see and speak with a victim he is removed from active duty leaving the team even shorter staffed than normal.
When Alec and Ginny appear to be in the murderer’s sights things start to hot up as the search to stop the killing is stepped up.
The story moves along at a steady pace as the reader is taken on a journey with many twists and turns. As the adrenaline starts to flow and the pieces begin to slot together we approach a dramatic conclusion that is totally unexpected.
This is my second outing with Alec McKay. He is a very realistic character damaged by family tragedy he is struggling with his personal life and when his career appears to be under threat his choices are go under or fight back. The latter always being the action of the detective we know and love.
Ginny comes more into her own in this story as her personal life becomes entangled with the case in ways nobody expected. She makes a good partner for Alec as they both have totally different personalities that combine to make a very effective team.
I loved this book it lacked the blood and gore I like and found it a little slow going in places but overall a very good read
September 28, 2017
Having read and enjoyed Candles And Roses, the first DI Alec McKay novel, I was very much looking forward to reading the sequel; I am very grateful to Bloodhound Books for sending me an advance copy. The wait was worth it, as this is a tremendous read and even better than its predecessor. A series of suspicious deaths involving retired detectives living in the Black Isle presents Alec with an intriguing case which threatens to become personal. The writing is very good, the story itself is fast-paced and the descriptions and back stories of the detectives are fascinating. Alex Walters is certainly one to watch!
September 28, 2017
Brilliant second book in the series, great characters and a fantastic setting on The Black Isle
February 5, 2024
An enjoyable police procedural. I loved the setting of The Black Isle. The characters are stereotypical, the inspector with marriage problems but whose bark is worse than his bite. But it wasn't a bad story and held my interest to the end. I will happily read more by this author. If you like Rebus or Taggart, you will enjoy this.
December 4, 2024
Probably a 4.5 i love the characters and their interaction very believable. Good storyline quite pacey. Looking forward to others in the series.
April 23, 2025
Death Parts Us is a crime story set in the Black Isles of Scotland. DI Alec Mckay, who recently moved there after separating from his wife, finds a crime scene linked to the infamous officer Jackie Galloway. Initially thought to be an accident, more members of Jackie's team start turning up dead. Alec, having been one of the last to see a victim alive, is pushed aside. His colleagues, DS Ginny Horton and DI Helena Grant, take on the investigation, but Alec can't help but get involved.
The plot is full of tension, with the killer's identity revealed only at the end. The setting is vividly brought to life through local dialect and descriptions of the landscape, capturing the cold and dark atmosphere. While the use of Scottish terms like ach adds flavor, they can become repetitive. The book features several deaths, but by the conclusion, the reader may lose track of the victims. Overall, Death Parts Us is an engaging crime novel that stands on its own.
The plot is full of tension, with the killer's identity revealed only at the end. The setting is vividly brought to life through local dialect and descriptions of the landscape, capturing the cold and dark atmosphere. While the use of Scottish terms like ach adds flavor, they can become repetitive. The book features several deaths, but by the conclusion, the reader may lose track of the victims. Overall, Death Parts Us is an engaging crime novel that stands on its own.
January 29, 2018
An engaging crime thriller with interesting characters and an atmospheric setting
When ex-police offer Jackie Galloway is found dead having fallen from his back garden down a steep hillside, the police assume it to be an accident brought on by his increasingly fragile, dementia-addled state. DI Alec McKay, still recovering from a recent separation from his estranged wife, is brought in to investigate what seems to be a fairly simple case. However, the deceased’s wife, Bridie Galloway, reveals that for the years leading up to his death, Jackie had been receiving letters from an unknown source containing only the phrase ‘Not forgotten. Not forgiven.’ As Alec begins to dig deeper into Galloway’s background, he tries to talk to some of his old colleagues and shortly afterwards, another ex-policeman winds up dead. Now a suspect, Alec is told to stay away, but as more bodies start turning up, he realises that Scotland’s Black Isle is being stalked by a dangerous murderer obsessed with revenge. He and DS Ginny Horton must discover why someone is seeking out and executing ex-officers 20 years after they have retired before they find themselves and the other current members of the police force in the killer’s sights.
This was a well-written, easy to read crime thriller novel with a fast-paced and engaging plot. The setting of the Black Isle in Scotland is extremely well portrayed, and the author manages to convey the atmosphere in both his descriptions and the character’s dialogue, with the dark, rainy, windswept landscapes creating an excellent mood for the story and heightening the tension in many of the scenes. It also makes for a refreshing change from crime thrillers that are set in the US and even differentiates this story from similar novels that take place in UK settings such as London. The ending was unexpected and dramatic and managed to tie together all of the fairly complex strands that the author had woven throughout the story in order to create a satisfying conclusion.
DI McKay is an excellent creation – part rebellious maverick, part cantankerous old man – and quite unique as a hero in this sort of detective story. I found his personality to be likeable, entertaining and believable, and his relationship with his police officer colleagues was interesting and multi-layered. I did find myself feeling a little detached from the subplot about his wife, but then I haven’t read the first instalment in the series which may well expand on their relationship more thoroughly. Additionally, I thought that the secondary characters were all quite well-developed and had the depth to their personalities, with none of them seeming to be just bland one-dimensional figures that the author had created as filler.
Overall, whilst it wasn’t the single best or most exciting novel I have ever read, Death Parts Us was an excellent crime thriller that I would highly recommend to any fan of the genre. Its unique setting and strong characters make it a highly entertaining page-turner and I would be keen to get hold of the previous book in the DI McKay series.
Daenerys
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review
When ex-police offer Jackie Galloway is found dead having fallen from his back garden down a steep hillside, the police assume it to be an accident brought on by his increasingly fragile, dementia-addled state. DI Alec McKay, still recovering from a recent separation from his estranged wife, is brought in to investigate what seems to be a fairly simple case. However, the deceased’s wife, Bridie Galloway, reveals that for the years leading up to his death, Jackie had been receiving letters from an unknown source containing only the phrase ‘Not forgotten. Not forgiven.’ As Alec begins to dig deeper into Galloway’s background, he tries to talk to some of his old colleagues and shortly afterwards, another ex-policeman winds up dead. Now a suspect, Alec is told to stay away, but as more bodies start turning up, he realises that Scotland’s Black Isle is being stalked by a dangerous murderer obsessed with revenge. He and DS Ginny Horton must discover why someone is seeking out and executing ex-officers 20 years after they have retired before they find themselves and the other current members of the police force in the killer’s sights.
This was a well-written, easy to read crime thriller novel with a fast-paced and engaging plot. The setting of the Black Isle in Scotland is extremely well portrayed, and the author manages to convey the atmosphere in both his descriptions and the character’s dialogue, with the dark, rainy, windswept landscapes creating an excellent mood for the story and heightening the tension in many of the scenes. It also makes for a refreshing change from crime thrillers that are set in the US and even differentiates this story from similar novels that take place in UK settings such as London. The ending was unexpected and dramatic and managed to tie together all of the fairly complex strands that the author had woven throughout the story in order to create a satisfying conclusion.
DI McKay is an excellent creation – part rebellious maverick, part cantankerous old man – and quite unique as a hero in this sort of detective story. I found his personality to be likeable, entertaining and believable, and his relationship with his police officer colleagues was interesting and multi-layered. I did find myself feeling a little detached from the subplot about his wife, but then I haven’t read the first instalment in the series which may well expand on their relationship more thoroughly. Additionally, I thought that the secondary characters were all quite well-developed and had the depth to their personalities, with none of them seeming to be just bland one-dimensional figures that the author had created as filler.
Overall, whilst it wasn’t the single best or most exciting novel I have ever read, Death Parts Us was an excellent crime thriller that I would highly recommend to any fan of the genre. Its unique setting and strong characters make it a highly entertaining page-turner and I would be keen to get hold of the previous book in the DI McKay series.
Daenerys
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review
October 12, 2017
If you live in London, Manchester or New York you will not bat an eye if you pick up a book set in the city you live. Happens all the time. You may smile a little if you recognise a street name or if your old school is mentioned; it is a familiarity you would enjoy spotting.
I grew up in the Highlands of Scotland. I went to school in a town called Fortrose, I drove through the neighbouring town of Avoch* and walked to Rosemarkie. Ever heard of them? Unlikely. They are not often selected as the setting for serial killer thrillers so we don’t get to experience that wee smile of familiarity.
But Death Parts Us by Alex Walters is set on The Black Isle and features all these towns (well…villages) and I read this book with a huge smile on my face. I walked these streets, I went to that beach, I have crossed that bridge more times than I can count and I have tromped through the Fairy Glen. This is a book set in my wee part of the world and I bloody loved it.
But you are now thinking – I have never heard of these places, is this book one I will enjoy too? YES. If we move beyond my love of the locations in the book there is also my love of great crime novels and Death Parts Us is a slick and highly entertaining thriller.
Retired police officers are dying. Initially their deaths are considered tragic accidents, old men in poor health who reach the end of their days. However, the frequency of sudden and unexpected deaths of old colleagues soon points to some sinister faction at work. Then it becomes clear that each of the dead men had been receiving letters “Not Forgotten. Not Forgiven” DI Alec McKay wants to investigate, however, some unfortunate timing means he will be sidelined as Alec finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time. Can Alec have any influence on an investigation if he just asks a few questions around the villages?
The responsibility to investigate will fall to his younger colleague Ginny Horton. But Ginny has problems of her own. An unwelcome visitor from her past has tracked her down and Ginny is not prepared to face those old and unwelcome memories. Not that she can turn to McKay, he is trying to adjust to life alone after a recent split from his wife and has his own problems to contend with.
Death Parts Us is the second novel to feature DI Alec McKay (Candles and Roses was the first book). I had not read the first book in the series so I can state with assurance that you can read Death Parts Us without needing to read Candles – the book is very enjoyable as a stand-alone novel.
I really enjoyed Death Parts Us and I cannot wait to go back and read the first book in the series. I urge you to seek this one out, a police procedural in a whole new setting and a cracking murder mystery to enjoy.
I grew up in the Highlands of Scotland. I went to school in a town called Fortrose, I drove through the neighbouring town of Avoch* and walked to Rosemarkie. Ever heard of them? Unlikely. They are not often selected as the setting for serial killer thrillers so we don’t get to experience that wee smile of familiarity.
But Death Parts Us by Alex Walters is set on The Black Isle and features all these towns (well…villages) and I read this book with a huge smile on my face. I walked these streets, I went to that beach, I have crossed that bridge more times than I can count and I have tromped through the Fairy Glen. This is a book set in my wee part of the world and I bloody loved it.
But you are now thinking – I have never heard of these places, is this book one I will enjoy too? YES. If we move beyond my love of the locations in the book there is also my love of great crime novels and Death Parts Us is a slick and highly entertaining thriller.
Retired police officers are dying. Initially their deaths are considered tragic accidents, old men in poor health who reach the end of their days. However, the frequency of sudden and unexpected deaths of old colleagues soon points to some sinister faction at work. Then it becomes clear that each of the dead men had been receiving letters “Not Forgotten. Not Forgiven” DI Alec McKay wants to investigate, however, some unfortunate timing means he will be sidelined as Alec finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time. Can Alec have any influence on an investigation if he just asks a few questions around the villages?
The responsibility to investigate will fall to his younger colleague Ginny Horton. But Ginny has problems of her own. An unwelcome visitor from her past has tracked her down and Ginny is not prepared to face those old and unwelcome memories. Not that she can turn to McKay, he is trying to adjust to life alone after a recent split from his wife and has his own problems to contend with.
Death Parts Us is the second novel to feature DI Alec McKay (Candles and Roses was the first book). I had not read the first book in the series so I can state with assurance that you can read Death Parts Us without needing to read Candles – the book is very enjoyable as a stand-alone novel.
I really enjoyed Death Parts Us and I cannot wait to go back and read the first book in the series. I urge you to seek this one out, a police procedural in a whole new setting and a cracking murder mystery to enjoy.
September 30, 2017
When I first laid eyes on Death Parts Us by Alex Walters, I was drawn to the cover, it is such an eerie scene of the rocks and the sea, it felt as though the sea was actually undulating in front of my eyes drawing into my very soul.
The cover was just the start to Alex’s story….
Death Parts Us the second book in the Alec McKay series, the first being Candles and Roses. I wouldn’t say it was necessary to read as part of the series as Death Parts Us does well as a standalone as it contains enough back story to be able to follow the characters.
The story is centred around the rugged Black Isle, Scotland where its cold, damp but undeniably beautiful, a perfect setting for a serial killer based police procedural. Ex-police officers are being killed, the finger of suspicion points at one of their own, DI Alec McKay has more questions than answers, why kill them now and who wants them dead, what is the connection. All the clues steadily piece together, with red herrings thrown in to leave you feeling bamboozled, misleading signs which suddenly tear you off in another direction, but throughout it all, just when I thought I had the answers the conclusion blew me out of the water.
McKay is a family man, who’s life is in crisis, a family tragedy and a breakdown in his marriage, now it appears he may lose it all including his career, Alec needs to find the killer and fast. It was funny imagining McKay, his accent, his sarcasm, his undeniable wit but one thing was for sure was that McKay settled in my mind in a clear and unobstructed manner. I could project him vividly as if
I was standing in the pages with him, looking at the crime scenes, feeling it, seeing it, smelling it, being part of it.
When opening the book I didn’t know what to expect, there is always apprehension when starting out with a new author. While reading Death Parts Us I didn’t find it particularly fast paced but I didn’t care, I actually savoured the story, like I was tasting something new with my eyes.
Where are Bloodhound Books finding the authors lately there has been some amazing books come my way and this one is no exception. Thank you to Bloodhound Books, Alex Walters and Sarah Hardy for the invite onto the Blog Blitz Tour to read and review an advanced readers copy of Death Parts Us in exchange for an honest review.
I hope to hear more from Alex Walters in the very near future, a new author who is now firmly on my radar.
The cover was just the start to Alex’s story….
Death Parts Us the second book in the Alec McKay series, the first being Candles and Roses. I wouldn’t say it was necessary to read as part of the series as Death Parts Us does well as a standalone as it contains enough back story to be able to follow the characters.
The story is centred around the rugged Black Isle, Scotland where its cold, damp but undeniably beautiful, a perfect setting for a serial killer based police procedural. Ex-police officers are being killed, the finger of suspicion points at one of their own, DI Alec McKay has more questions than answers, why kill them now and who wants them dead, what is the connection. All the clues steadily piece together, with red herrings thrown in to leave you feeling bamboozled, misleading signs which suddenly tear you off in another direction, but throughout it all, just when I thought I had the answers the conclusion blew me out of the water.
McKay is a family man, who’s life is in crisis, a family tragedy and a breakdown in his marriage, now it appears he may lose it all including his career, Alec needs to find the killer and fast. It was funny imagining McKay, his accent, his sarcasm, his undeniable wit but one thing was for sure was that McKay settled in my mind in a clear and unobstructed manner. I could project him vividly as if
I was standing in the pages with him, looking at the crime scenes, feeling it, seeing it, smelling it, being part of it.
When opening the book I didn’t know what to expect, there is always apprehension when starting out with a new author. While reading Death Parts Us I didn’t find it particularly fast paced but I didn’t care, I actually savoured the story, like I was tasting something new with my eyes.
Where are Bloodhound Books finding the authors lately there has been some amazing books come my way and this one is no exception. Thank you to Bloodhound Books, Alex Walters and Sarah Hardy for the invite onto the Blog Blitz Tour to read and review an advanced readers copy of Death Parts Us in exchange for an honest review.
I hope to hear more from Alex Walters in the very near future, a new author who is now firmly on my radar.
September 28, 2017
As serial murder/detective novels go, this is a good one. Alec McKay has it all. He’s a surly old war horse detective who rubs a lot of people the wrong way, has a troubled marriage, has been known to drink heavily, has suffered tragic personal loss, and has an unfailing ability to get into trouble with his superiors. In the end, however, he is a decidedly “good” man with a warm, if not radiant, heart.
The story is set in Scotland where, once again, we’re reminded that the landscape is awesome and the weather is never nice. There is something about the Scottish setting, however, that seems to lend itself to serial murder mysteries. You feel cold and damp just reading it. It’s the perfect frame of mind for the genre.
The writing is very sound. There are no discernible issues with continuity and the pace is consistent throughout. You won’t find yourself wondering if you could overcome the guilt of jumping ahead. You won’t want to.
The characters are developed well and if not overly complex they are a diverse lot. The “old school” detectives who are serially murdered all seem to share a weakness for drink and rough-hewn mistresses, eliciting little sympathy upon their deaths from anyone, least of all their wives. The current crop of crime solvers are, however, generally redemptive in nature; sometimes a bit overly so.
The mystery is maintained throughout. The author sets up a magnificent ending but, unfortunately, never quite delivers. The resolution is totally unpredictable, but far more complex than the tale itself and, unfortunately, leaves a lot of loose threads hanging loosely.
I do have to say that I tip my hat to the author and publisher in setting a reasonable price. When best-selling Kindle editions are routinely priced in the double digits and often represent little to no discount over the hardcover edition, the price that I paid for this Kindle edition on its publication date was a pleasant throwback to those sunny days of reasonable prices. (Ironic for a mystery set in Scotland.)
For the price paid, this was a real find. It’s not a literary masterpiece, but it is a darn good read for the money. And I think that makes it well worth our support.
The story is set in Scotland where, once again, we’re reminded that the landscape is awesome and the weather is never nice. There is something about the Scottish setting, however, that seems to lend itself to serial murder mysteries. You feel cold and damp just reading it. It’s the perfect frame of mind for the genre.
The writing is very sound. There are no discernible issues with continuity and the pace is consistent throughout. You won’t find yourself wondering if you could overcome the guilt of jumping ahead. You won’t want to.
The characters are developed well and if not overly complex they are a diverse lot. The “old school” detectives who are serially murdered all seem to share a weakness for drink and rough-hewn mistresses, eliciting little sympathy upon their deaths from anyone, least of all their wives. The current crop of crime solvers are, however, generally redemptive in nature; sometimes a bit overly so.
The mystery is maintained throughout. The author sets up a magnificent ending but, unfortunately, never quite delivers. The resolution is totally unpredictable, but far more complex than the tale itself and, unfortunately, leaves a lot of loose threads hanging loosely.
I do have to say that I tip my hat to the author and publisher in setting a reasonable price. When best-selling Kindle editions are routinely priced in the double digits and often represent little to no discount over the hardcover edition, the price that I paid for this Kindle edition on its publication date was a pleasant throwback to those sunny days of reasonable prices. (Ironic for a mystery set in Scotland.)
For the price paid, this was a real find. It’s not a literary masterpiece, but it is a darn good read for the money. And I think that makes it well worth our support.
January 22, 2021
DI Alec McKay does it again
Well, I have to say, yet another brilliant novel from Alex Walters. I am certainly warming to his Alec McKay as much as I have enjoyed all his other detectives. Reading this one straight on from the previous book in the series helped enormously because there are plenty of references to the previous case, which is still very fresh in my mind, and quite a lot of what happens in this story follows on. This book follows the mystery of long retired local police officers suddenly dying in, what appears to be, suspicious circumstances. This turns into a long investigation as more bodies turn up on a regular basis. In the meantime, DS Ginny Horton is having her own problems which are causing her great distress. This is an extremely interesting and engaging story which really held my attention and kept me turning the pages late into the night. There are plenty of twists and turns and the author is very clever at leading the reader down alleyways that make them think they have worked out what is going on and who the killer might be, only to discover that they had wandered down the wrong path and have to start again! I was definitely sure that I had got it all worked out, only to discover that I got it totally wrong. The pace, which started out fairly slowly, gradually built up into a crescendo until we reached what, on the face of it, appeared to be a very satisfactory ending. However, as is the case with this series of books, there is always something left open for the next in the series and I am going to start that one right now.
Alex Walters is one of those great discoveries of the past year for me and he continues to keep me fully engaged with his brilliant and well written novels – always looking for the next one to read.
Well, I have to say, yet another brilliant novel from Alex Walters. I am certainly warming to his Alec McKay as much as I have enjoyed all his other detectives. Reading this one straight on from the previous book in the series helped enormously because there are plenty of references to the previous case, which is still very fresh in my mind, and quite a lot of what happens in this story follows on. This book follows the mystery of long retired local police officers suddenly dying in, what appears to be, suspicious circumstances. This turns into a long investigation as more bodies turn up on a regular basis. In the meantime, DS Ginny Horton is having her own problems which are causing her great distress. This is an extremely interesting and engaging story which really held my attention and kept me turning the pages late into the night. There are plenty of twists and turns and the author is very clever at leading the reader down alleyways that make them think they have worked out what is going on and who the killer might be, only to discover that they had wandered down the wrong path and have to start again! I was definitely sure that I had got it all worked out, only to discover that I got it totally wrong. The pace, which started out fairly slowly, gradually built up into a crescendo until we reached what, on the face of it, appeared to be a very satisfactory ending. However, as is the case with this series of books, there is always something left open for the next in the series and I am going to start that one right now.
Alex Walters is one of those great discoveries of the past year for me and he continues to keep me fully engaged with his brilliant and well written novels – always looking for the next one to read.
September 29, 2017
This is the second in the series but like most crime books, it can be read as a standalone.
The book is set in the Black Isles in Scotland, which is a nice change from London or Manchester. DI Alec Mckay has just moved to the Black Isles after a separation with his wife, when he stumbles on to the crime scene of notorious crooked policeman Jackie Galloway. It is dismissed as an accident until other members of Jackie’s unit start showing up dead. Alec finds himself sidelined after being one of the last people to see one of the victims alive. It’s then up to his colleagues DS Ginny Horton DI Helena Grant to investigate but Alec can’t keep his nose out.
I loved DI Alec McKay, with grumpy exterior and his talent for getting himself into trouble. I also liked the supporting characters, DS Horton and DI Grant, they were well formed characters with their own voices and gelled well with Alec.
The story had me guessing quite a lot. I honestly had no idea who the killer was going to be until right at the very end, which turned out to be a surprising twist.
I liked the use of some Scottish phrases, like ach, hen and blethering but they were used quite a lot, it did get a little repetitive on occasion. I actually would have liked a bit more Scottish slang.
Also there was quite a few deaths, which it’s a crime book I expect that, but I lost track slightly of the victims by the end.
Overall a fantastic book with plenty of action that will keep you turning page after page. After reading this book I actually went and brought the first in the series, Candles and Roses.
The book is set in the Black Isles in Scotland, which is a nice change from London or Manchester. DI Alec Mckay has just moved to the Black Isles after a separation with his wife, when he stumbles on to the crime scene of notorious crooked policeman Jackie Galloway. It is dismissed as an accident until other members of Jackie’s unit start showing up dead. Alec finds himself sidelined after being one of the last people to see one of the victims alive. It’s then up to his colleagues DS Ginny Horton DI Helena Grant to investigate but Alec can’t keep his nose out.
I loved DI Alec McKay, with grumpy exterior and his talent for getting himself into trouble. I also liked the supporting characters, DS Horton and DI Grant, they were well formed characters with their own voices and gelled well with Alec.
The story had me guessing quite a lot. I honestly had no idea who the killer was going to be until right at the very end, which turned out to be a surprising twist.
I liked the use of some Scottish phrases, like ach, hen and blethering but they were used quite a lot, it did get a little repetitive on occasion. I actually would have liked a bit more Scottish slang.
Also there was quite a few deaths, which it’s a crime book I expect that, but I lost track slightly of the victims by the end.
Overall a fantastic book with plenty of action that will keep you turning page after page. After reading this book I actually went and brought the first in the series, Candles and Roses.
October 8, 2017
Darkness..Hidden Secrets..Murder and Twists...
Jackie Galloway an ex cop ,a selfish ,greedy man who left the force under a cloud twenty years previously is found dead..At first its assumed an accident.. D.I Alex McKay goes to talk to Galloway's wife who mentions some letters...McKay being McKay knows something isn't right.. When another body is found another ex cop... The team do not believe this is yet another accident... McKay is a good detective.. He is a good leader..his marriage is a mess ..he wants to fix this ..yet at the same time his job is his mistress.. Then when McKay takes time of his own to investigate further ..something happens and he is suspended.. When things turn darker..McKay is on dangerous ground.. The lives of others are in danger..The killer is becoming more bold... Tension is rife.. and suspicion is all around him...Will McKay bring a dangerous killer to ground? Time is of the essence here....After reading Candles and Roses by Alex Walters... I so looked forward to this... This book was a nail biting ,crisp dark read...that keeps you guessing all the way through....A book of dark secrets..revenge..and a killer with a dark and twisted agenda....
Jackie Galloway an ex cop ,a selfish ,greedy man who left the force under a cloud twenty years previously is found dead..At first its assumed an accident.. D.I Alex McKay goes to talk to Galloway's wife who mentions some letters...McKay being McKay knows something isn't right.. When another body is found another ex cop... The team do not believe this is yet another accident... McKay is a good detective.. He is a good leader..his marriage is a mess ..he wants to fix this ..yet at the same time his job is his mistress.. Then when McKay takes time of his own to investigate further ..something happens and he is suspended.. When things turn darker..McKay is on dangerous ground.. The lives of others are in danger..The killer is becoming more bold... Tension is rife.. and suspicion is all around him...Will McKay bring a dangerous killer to ground? Time is of the essence here....After reading Candles and Roses by Alex Walters... I so looked forward to this... This book was a nail biting ,crisp dark read...that keeps you guessing all the way through....A book of dark secrets..revenge..and a killer with a dark and twisted agenda....
January 20, 2018
Excellent Police Procedural Set in Scotland
This book has it all: 1) a compelling storyline about the serial murders of retired police officers, 2) the stormy and forlorn beauty of the setting (Black Isles, Scotland) and 3) interesting, fully-fleshed out characters. I especially liked the irascible protagonist, DI Alec McKay, and the women police officers, DCI Helena Grant and DS Ginny Horton, plus Horton’s lawyer partner Isla Bennett.
Although this is the second book in the DI Alec McKay series, the author includes enough information from the first book, so I had no problems reading this as a stand-alone. If you enjoy reading mystery-murder thrillers—especially police procedurals—I highly recommend this book.
This book has it all: 1) a compelling storyline about the serial murders of retired police officers, 2) the stormy and forlorn beauty of the setting (Black Isles, Scotland) and 3) interesting, fully-fleshed out characters. I especially liked the irascible protagonist, DI Alec McKay, and the women police officers, DCI Helena Grant and DS Ginny Horton, plus Horton’s lawyer partner Isla Bennett.
Although this is the second book in the DI Alec McKay series, the author includes enough information from the first book, so I had no problems reading this as a stand-alone. If you enjoy reading mystery-murder thrillers—especially police procedurals—I highly recommend this book.
February 2, 2018
Just read the first DI Mckay book and went straight to the second. Marginally better so gave it 10/10 as opposed to 9/10 for Candles and Roses. Superb storyline with the characters nicely developing, this time involving retired detectives from his force and the Northern Ireland Issue. Make sure you read the first book before this one although it is a stand alone novel the author often refers to instances in the first book. The amusing anecdotes continue and add immensely to the enjoyment of this book. A great read.
October 30, 2024
Intense thriller and a good read
McKay is a dedicated Detective Inspector, who is urged on by his instincts a.nd stubbornness. When one of his unpopular, retired bosses is found dead after a fall, McKay is not unduly worried by it.
Things escalate, and when another body is found, just after talking to McKay he finds himself with time on his hands. It is a very deep and thrilling story. Excellent set of characters, well crafted and their interactions are pivotal to the outcome.
McKay is a dedicated Detective Inspector, who is urged on by his instincts a.nd stubbornness. When one of his unpopular, retired bosses is found dead after a fall, McKay is not unduly worried by it.
Things escalate, and when another body is found, just after talking to McKay he finds himself with time on his hands. It is a very deep and thrilling story. Excellent set of characters, well crafted and their interactions are pivotal to the outcome.
January 25, 2019
Even though this is a thriller about a detectiveve caught up in a mysterious serial killer's plans, I really enjoyed it. Love the three main characters, especially Alec. I like Walters' style of writing and the detailed way Scotland's Black Isles, where the story is set, are depicted. Can't wait for the next one.
November 30, 2019
Brilliant. I read the first then finished this, the second and have immediately started the third in the series. Plus I just purchased all three in another series by him and a stand alone. What more can I say, he is a very good writer. Believable plots, likeable characters and a surprising outcome.
Read
December 29, 2019A very readable book if somewhat confusing at times for my old brain. I had to re-read the end to make sure I'd understood what had happened. However, I've now downloaded the first Alex McKay book and look forward to finding out more about him and the Black Isle as I realised quite quickly that this was a sequel to a book I haven't read
August 13, 2023
I have submitted this review after listening to the audiobook of this title. (Audible Membership)
Deeds do have consequences. Even after twenty years, the person seeking revenge on a group of former detectives has decided to be a judge, jury, and executioner.
Although sitting this one out on "holiday," DI Alec McKay still has a lot of substance to assist in this case.
Deeds do have consequences. Even after twenty years, the person seeking revenge on a group of former detectives has decided to be a judge, jury, and executioner.
Although sitting this one out on "holiday," DI Alec McKay still has a lot of substance to assist in this case.
February 9, 2024
I really enjoyed this.
The sarcasm of the Scottish characters made me chuckle constantly, despite the dark nature of the story.
I thought I’d had the killer pegged pretty early, only for the twist right at the end to get me.
I’d love to see a foreign person try and listen to this though; even I struggled to understand some of the language in places!
The sarcasm of the Scottish characters made me chuckle constantly, despite the dark nature of the story.
I thought I’d had the killer pegged pretty early, only for the twist right at the end to get me.
I’d love to see a foreign person try and listen to this though; even I struggled to understand some of the language in places!
November 14, 2018
An interesting book
I enjoyed this story very much, and the characters especially Alec McKay. This is the first I've read in this series just enough to wet my appetite. Alex Walters more please.
I enjoyed this story very much, and the characters especially Alec McKay. This is the first I've read in this series just enough to wet my appetite. Alex Walters more please.
March 3, 2019
Another great story
Another great story by Alex. Really enjoy the characters in the series and their quirky natures.Lots of action with plenty of twists and turns. Looking forward to the next in the series.
Another great story by Alex. Really enjoy the characters in the series and their quirky natures.Lots of action with plenty of twists and turns. Looking forward to the next in the series.
July 29, 2022
Um policial passado na Escócia, muito ao estilo Britânico, o segundo da série, de que gostei mais do que o primeiro.
Seguimos o DI Alec MacKay, que é um rabugento simpático, na investigação de várias mortes suspeitas de ex-polícias, aparentemente acidentes. Mas nem tudo é o que parece.
Seguimos o DI Alec MacKay, que é um rabugento simpático, na investigação de várias mortes suspeitas de ex-polícias, aparentemente acidentes. Mas nem tudo é o que parece.
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