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Detective Zoe Finch #0.5
Deadly Origins
A new detective... a case that's deeply personal.
It's 2003, and Zoe Finch has just joined CID.
When a body is found with its eyes missing, Zoe begins to suspect the killing might be linked to historical events that involved her family.
When another body is discovered with its ears cut off, Zoe knows she's right. But can she find the killer before the crime gets too close to home?
It's 2003, and Zoe Finch has just joined CID.
When a body is found with its eyes missing, Zoe begins to suspect the killing might be linked to historical events that involved her family.
When another body is discovered with its ears cut off, Zoe knows she's right. But can she find the killer before the crime gets too close to home?
ebook
First published September 25, 2020
7 people are currently reading
285 people want to read
About the author
Rachel McLean
101 books626 followersMy name's Rachel McLean and I write stories you can't put down, with characters you'll be rooting for.
I'm best known for my Dorset Crime series, which has sold over a million copies. The first book in that series, The Corfe Castle Murders, won the 2021 Kindle Storyteller Award.
Here's what Clare Balding (the lead judge) had to say about the book:
'I particularly enjoyed the detail of the landscape and the humorous oddities of Dorset life. I enjoyed the richness of the characters, complexity of life for a working mother who is thrown into a new environment and has to prove herself, all over again.'
But The Corfe Castle Murders is by no means my only book. I've published five series and am working on two new ones, all of which connect. You'll find characters from each series in one or more of the other ones, so you (and I) get to follow them as they take on new challenges.
For example:
DCI Lesley Clarke is Zoe's boss in the DI Zoe Finch series and then moves to Dorset where she becomes the star of the Dorset Crime series.
DS Mo Uddin is Zoe's best friend and sidekick, then moves to Scotland for the McBride & Tanner series.
DC Tina Abbott is a key character in the Dorset Crime series and plays an important role in the new Lyme Regis Women's Swimming Club series of mysteries which stars her mum, Annie.
Zaf Williams starts off in the DI Zoe Finch series then moves to London and is one of the stars of the London Cosy Mysteries series (along with his colleague Diana and Gus the cat).
Dr Petra McBride appears in no fewer than three series and I'm planning a new series for her in 2026.
And not to be outdone, Zoe Finch has two series in which she stars: the DI Zoe Finch series of 'Deadly' books, and the Cumbria Crime series.
Once you get to know these characters, you'll find plenty of books to keep you entertained. And I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I enjoy writing them.
You can read a full list of the series and books on my books page. Each series is designed to be read in order but which series you go for first is really up to you.
I'm best known for my Dorset Crime series, which has sold over a million copies. The first book in that series, The Corfe Castle Murders, won the 2021 Kindle Storyteller Award.
Here's what Clare Balding (the lead judge) had to say about the book:
'I particularly enjoyed the detail of the landscape and the humorous oddities of Dorset life. I enjoyed the richness of the characters, complexity of life for a working mother who is thrown into a new environment and has to prove herself, all over again.'
But The Corfe Castle Murders is by no means my only book. I've published five series and am working on two new ones, all of which connect. You'll find characters from each series in one or more of the other ones, so you (and I) get to follow them as they take on new challenges.
For example:
DCI Lesley Clarke is Zoe's boss in the DI Zoe Finch series and then moves to Dorset where she becomes the star of the Dorset Crime series.
DS Mo Uddin is Zoe's best friend and sidekick, then moves to Scotland for the McBride & Tanner series.
DC Tina Abbott is a key character in the Dorset Crime series and plays an important role in the new Lyme Regis Women's Swimming Club series of mysteries which stars her mum, Annie.
Zaf Williams starts off in the DI Zoe Finch series then moves to London and is one of the stars of the London Cosy Mysteries series (along with his colleague Diana and Gus the cat).
Dr Petra McBride appears in no fewer than three series and I'm planning a new series for her in 2026.
And not to be outdone, Zoe Finch has two series in which she stars: the DI Zoe Finch series of 'Deadly' books, and the Cumbria Crime series.
Once you get to know these characters, you'll find plenty of books to keep you entertained. And I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I enjoy writing them.
You can read a full list of the series and books on my books page. Each series is designed to be read in order but which series you go for first is really up to you.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
October 7, 2020
I don’t normally both with “book 0’s” after I have started a series, but I read this because I had not yet started the Zoe Finch series, although I have purchased the first two books. That turned out to be a good decision, as this was a tidy novella, recounting Zoe’s first case in CID And sketching in a bot of family history. Definitely made me want to follow the series,
October 9, 2020
Great 'novella' (if that's the right word) taking you back to Zoe's first case in CID I dont usually bother with .5s amde prequels in series but being so taken with the first two books I decided to and very glad I did. Some family history filled in. Not essential to the series but worth reading first if you haven't started. The only minor thing is it seemed a bit rushed at the end. It could have been expanded to full novel without seeming padded. Basically I just didn't want it to end lol
May 4, 2022
This brilliant Novello is the prequel to the Detective Zoe Finch series which I highly recommend.
Available when I joined the Rachel McLean Book club at rachelmclean.com free to book club members and it is totally free to join..
Deadly origins is based around Zoe‘s first case in CID.
In this prequel to the Detective Zoe Finch series we learn a lot about Zoe not just about her character but about her family and social life and the ups and many downs that she encounters.
The case begins when an elderly man discovers a dead body in the middle of a roundabout with his eyes gorged out. No sooner does the investigation start on this murder when another dead body is found with his ears removed. Zoe is part of the investigation team to establish if these murders are linked and why and more importantly to try and apprehend the killer before more dead bodies turn up.
She is teamed up with her friend Mo Who we will get to know much more about in the series that follows.
The case revolves around incidents connected with the motor industry for which Zoe‘s dad once used to work so will he be able to fill in some gaps and will he himself be in danger.
Well this is all going on her dad is seriously ill her mum is an alcoholic and Zoe herself has her own little secret but still she is determined to get to the bottom of what has happened and to find out who the killer is.
Did not want this story to end but I knew I would enjoy it as I have already started reading the main series and totally love it this was up to my expectations even if I did not want it to end.
Zoe is a very strong willed determined character and one of my very favourite detectives I just hope this series goes on and on and on, Rachel McLean has created an amazing series with brilliant characterisation and storylines. Once again this was brilliantly narrated by the wonderful Jan Cramer Who is amazing when bringing the characters to life on this audiobook
Available when I joined the Rachel McLean Book club at rachelmclean.com free to book club members and it is totally free to join..
Deadly origins is based around Zoe‘s first case in CID.
In this prequel to the Detective Zoe Finch series we learn a lot about Zoe not just about her character but about her family and social life and the ups and many downs that she encounters.
The case begins when an elderly man discovers a dead body in the middle of a roundabout with his eyes gorged out. No sooner does the investigation start on this murder when another dead body is found with his ears removed. Zoe is part of the investigation team to establish if these murders are linked and why and more importantly to try and apprehend the killer before more dead bodies turn up.
She is teamed up with her friend Mo Who we will get to know much more about in the series that follows.
The case revolves around incidents connected with the motor industry for which Zoe‘s dad once used to work so will he be able to fill in some gaps and will he himself be in danger.
Well this is all going on her dad is seriously ill her mum is an alcoholic and Zoe herself has her own little secret but still she is determined to get to the bottom of what has happened and to find out who the killer is.
Did not want this story to end but I knew I would enjoy it as I have already started reading the main series and totally love it this was up to my expectations even if I did not want it to end.
Zoe is a very strong willed determined character and one of my very favourite detectives I just hope this series goes on and on and on, Rachel McLean has created an amazing series with brilliant characterisation and storylines. Once again this was brilliantly narrated by the wonderful Jan Cramer Who is amazing when bringing the characters to life on this audiobook
April 30, 2021
This prequel takes us back to DI Zoe Finch's first case as a new Detective Constable. She finds herself involved in a murder case linked to murky goings on in Birmingham's motor trade - including the factory where her father worked.
The novella is short at 100 pages or so and a good, quick read. It adds to our understanding of Zoe's past and introduces characters that will become important parts of her story.
The novella is short at 100 pages or so and a good, quick read. It adds to our understanding of Zoe's past and introduces characters that will become important parts of her story.
January 20, 2023
I have read the author's Dorset Crime mystery series which I loved and decided to read this series too. Happily I discovered this prequel first (free when I joined the author's book club).
I really liked this book though more of a novella. It set up the series, letting the readers know about Zoe Finch and her first homicide case and her family background (father dying of cancer and mother an alcoholic). Going right on to book #1.
I really liked this book though more of a novella. It set up the series, letting the readers know about Zoe Finch and her first homicide case and her family background (father dying of cancer and mother an alcoholic). Going right on to book #1.
January 29, 2023
Great first book in the series. As i live in Birmingham i recognised a lot of the places mentioned which made the story more real to me. I recently came across this series by accedent and got all the books on audible. I would like to thank the author for the free copy of the book i recieved for being part of her book club. Zoe is an interesting character and i am looking forward to the rest of the series.
October 19, 2024
Enjoyed this one. The prequel before the series
June 22, 2021
I have devoured the series and was beyond delighted to have a prequel. This tells you so much more about Zoe Finch, what drives her and where her ambitions come from, also how she is determined to get free from the claws of her ghastly mother. Like most addicts, her mother refuses to take responsibility for her drinking which impacts on Zoe’s life and career. She really doesn’t want to share this aspect of her life with her less than sympathetic boss so she struggles almost alone plus her dad who she loves deeply is dying from cancer. The three wise monkeys murder is somehow tied into her dad’s old work life but he doesn’t want to talk about it. When Zoe first mentioned it to her dad the shock caused her dad to collapse and be rushed to the acute care unit. Yet another thing for her mother to hold against her. I have not finished the book and I shall be so sorry when I do as I love love Zoe Finch and her crew.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2025
'Deadly Origins' is a free prequal novella to Rachel McLean's DI Zoe Finch series set in Birmingham. I'd just finished reading her Dorset series in which Zoe Finch makes a cameo appearance and wanted to read more of her work, so downloaded this series and read my whole way through it. The protagonist from the Dorset series, DCI Lesley Clarke, appears in these books and so we get the backstory to how she ends up in Dorset. Because of this, it might make sense to read the Birmingham books before the Dorset books, but I didn't find it a problem reading them the other way round. The books within the series should be read in the right order however. As well as a separate murder enquiry in each book there is also a story that threads it way through each book and builds to the climax at the end of book 6. Because of this, and to avoid spoilers, it's best to read them in order. McLean has a book 7 in the works for each series and I can't wait to read them. I've added Rachel McLean to my list of favourite detective fiction female authors along with Ann Cleeves, Elly Griffiths, Marsali Taylor and Barbara Nadel.
August 27, 2021
Firsts Impressions
This one was pretty short, but introduces us to the character of Zoe Finch, on her first murder case an what fun this one is.
Loved the idea that was going on this plot, the righteous not so good intentions of a few doing a lots of bad events on the others. Can't really say they didn't really deserve it.
Characters
Zoe our protagonist is obviously having a rough time, with everything that is going on in her life and wao it's a lot to take in., still doing her best at her job or trying to. She tries to be strong and in her situation don't know what I will do.
Mo is a very sweet character in my opinion, he is so nice a person and is very understanding and supporting.
Final Thoughts
By the end of the book I think you understand better how Zoe thinks and how the character will be developing afterwards in the series, the case was pretty cool would have love to see a little more, but hopefully tis will be more fulfilling on the series cases.
This one was pretty short, but introduces us to the character of Zoe Finch, on her first murder case an what fun this one is.
Loved the idea that was going on this plot, the righteous not so good intentions of a few doing a lots of bad events on the others. Can't really say they didn't really deserve it.
Characters
Zoe our protagonist is obviously having a rough time, with everything that is going on in her life and wao it's a lot to take in., still doing her best at her job or trying to. She tries to be strong and in her situation don't know what I will do.
Mo is a very sweet character in my opinion, he is so nice a person and is very understanding and supporting.
Final Thoughts
By the end of the book I think you understand better how Zoe thinks and how the character will be developing afterwards in the series, the case was pretty cool would have love to see a little more, but hopefully tis will be more fulfilling on the series cases.
May 24, 2021
I read Zoe Finch #1 last week, and was then pleased to discover the free 'prequel' novella, which I read yesterday! I just couldn't put it down. As a result, I've put the rest of the Zoe Finch novels on my wishlist. They can all be read as standalones, but it was nice to get a bit of Zoe's back story in the novella, as well as a case to puzzle over.
The books I've read so far have been very well-written, with a believable plot, and I didn't guess the perpetrator too early on in the story.
Rachel is a great writer with great ideas, and I'll definitely be reading more of her books.
The books I've read so far have been very well-written, with a believable plot, and I didn't guess the perpetrator too early on in the story.
Rachel is a great writer with great ideas, and I'll definitely be reading more of her books.
December 22, 2021
I discovered this novella by actually listening to the very end of book 4 in the series, usually I cut them off at the end of the story.
I went to sign up and got the book a few minutes later.
It's a good, if short, introduction to Zoe Finch and her first case in C.I.D. It's rather enjoyable, and get gives us some backstory to Zoe and her previously unknown family.
It's only downfall is that it could have been much longer but it's worth reading/listening to anyway, wherever you are in the series.
I went to sign up and got the book a few minutes later.
It's a good, if short, introduction to Zoe Finch and her first case in C.I.D. It's rather enjoyable, and get gives us some backstory to Zoe and her previously unknown family.
It's only downfall is that it could have been much longer but it's worth reading/listening to anyway, wherever you are in the series.
December 14, 2022
This book is the prequel to the DI Zoe Finch novels. This one goes back about 20 years before the 1st in the series. Zoe has just joined CID as a DC. A scandal at a local car factory leads to 4 deaths and Zoe and Mo have to find a link to the deaths. She also has to contend with a sick father and drunkard mother. Also her relationship with a fellow police officer ends and she finds herself pregnant. If you have read the 1st book DEADLY WISHES this gives to an insight to how things in that book came about. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
May 24, 2025
Although I find the quality of the Zoe Finch novels a bit patchy, this prequel novella was surprisingly good. Going back to 2003 when Zoe was a novice detective constable fresh to CID, ‘Deadly Origins’ is fast paced and gripping. The involvement of Zoe’s father in the investigation adds to her professional and personal difficulties and it’s easy to empathise with her. The ending was a bit rushed and Zoe isn’t directly involved in arresting and interviewing the killer, but ‘Deadly Origins’ is a short, engaging read.
January 16, 2021
This is the first book of Rachel McLean's I have read and really enjoyed it. I have the box set to read now which I will start in the next day or two. Zoe Finch is a Detective Constable and is involved in the investigation of some brutal murders linked to an embezzlement case from many years ago. Zoe's Dad is battling cancer but was involved in the historical case. Her Mum is an alcoholic so her home life is pretty fraught. Recommend this.
January 1, 2022
I read the Dorset series first which has Lesley Clarke as the main character. Zoe Finch is mentioned several times, assisting Lesley on occasion. So I tried the first Zoe book, enjoyed it very much and decided to read this free prequel. It gives a great family and early career background which will enhance my reading of the rest of the series. I think I'm going to enjoy reading about Zoe's adventures more than Lesley's. Thank you Rachel McLean for this gift.
March 25, 2022
Deadly Origins really helps bring the character of Zoe Finch to life. I’d already read some of the Dorset Murder series where she was introduced as a friend of DI Lesley Clarke, and another of the Deadly series. But there had only been vague hints about the family background that helped to form her character. I really enjoyed getting to know the young Zoe as she was building her career and her own life.
September 15, 2022
A pleasant, quick and easy read, following Rachels' usual formula.
I came across Zoe in Ms McLean's Dorset Murders, set close to where I live, and enjoy the accurate descriptions of the places the protagonists find themselves in. After this, I feel I know the layout of Birmingham's car factories past and present.
This book hooked me sufficiently to buy a few more and if you like this, you'll like the others by the same author.
I came across Zoe in Ms McLean's Dorset Murders, set close to where I live, and enjoy the accurate descriptions of the places the protagonists find themselves in. After this, I feel I know the layout of Birmingham's car factories past and present.
This book hooked me sufficiently to buy a few more and if you like this, you'll like the others by the same author.
December 3, 2022
Got this as a freebie after reading her book 1. Enjoyed that and have started book 2.
This was an OK explanation of what I read in book 1 about her back story. Usual niggle about easy access to census and death certificates. If only these were possible in real life for family history researchers but putting that liberty to oneside it was a nice read. Obviously shorter than her full books but did not suffer as a result.
This was an OK explanation of what I read in book 1 about her back story. Usual niggle about easy access to census and death certificates. If only these were possible in real life for family history researchers but putting that liberty to oneside it was a nice read. Obviously shorter than her full books but did not suffer as a result.
February 3, 2023
An excellent who-dunnit.
The prequel to what promises to be an addictive crime series.
Zoe Finch has only been in CID for a short while when she has to deal with not one, but four murders. Unfortunately, this case is a little close to home and could incur complications for her family.
An excellent read, with great characters and an intriguing plot. I am looking forward to reading more in this series as well as others by Rachel McLean.
The prequel to what promises to be an addictive crime series.
Zoe Finch has only been in CID for a short while when she has to deal with not one, but four murders. Unfortunately, this case is a little close to home and could incur complications for her family.
An excellent read, with great characters and an intriguing plot. I am looking forward to reading more in this series as well as others by Rachel McLean.
February 19, 2021
Here we find the backstory to part of Zoe finch’s history, we learn some home truths that put a new light on her relationship hassles letting us see her in a different light
Short to the point and enjoyable reading , no sooner had I read this than I was off looking for the next chapter in the life of Zoe finch
Short to the point and enjoyable reading , no sooner had I read this than I was off looking for the next chapter in the life of Zoe finch
October 27, 2021
This was a free copy sent by Rachel McLean book club . I requested it after reading the first 2 Detective Zoe Finch books.
The prequel fills in some of the gaps in the first 2 books which I really enjoyed and can recommend.
I have already downloaded the remaining books in the series onto my Kindle.
Just about to start Deadly Desires which is book 3 can’t wait !!!
The prequel fills in some of the gaps in the first 2 books which I really enjoyed and can recommend.
I have already downloaded the remaining books in the series onto my Kindle.
Just about to start Deadly Desires which is book 3 can’t wait !!!
September 25, 2020
This is the prequel to the Zoe Finch series.
The books sets out Zoe’s history and who she is nicely as we learn much more about her and her family in this book.
It’s set in 2003 in Birmingham and Zoe is new to CID.
Easy to read, fast paced.
The books sets out Zoe’s history and who she is nicely as we learn much more about her and her family in this book.
It’s set in 2003 in Birmingham and Zoe is new to CID.
Easy to read, fast paced.
January 14, 2021
Wonderful free downloaded prequel. Answered some questions about the main characters private life and how she reacts to her social environment and her mother. A must read if you have been drawn into the series.
April 8, 2021
I received my copy of this book and I was hooked in the first pages, Iahve ordered the rest of the Series - well written and from page one the characters and plot makes u want to read more, but make sure u have the next book ready to read.
June 24, 2021
A great prequel story which introduces the reader to the main character so you get to know a background of the family dynamics too. Definitely characters you can warm too. Looking forward to reading more about DC Zoe Finch. Quite different to other detective novels I have read.
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July 2, 2021Omg couldn’t put this down until I finished it! Lucky it was on my phone so I could keep reading it at ever little opportunity! Have read them all now! You must or should start at the first in the series and work your way through them! Best ser I have read for ages !
October 17, 2021
An excellent, quick read but didn't skimp on quality. I haven't started the series yet but I will can't wait to read more about Zoe. If all the books are as can't-put-down-able as this, I am in for an exciting, exhilarating, thrilling ride.
December 19, 2021
This is a great intro to Zoe and her colleagues/friends
Definitely a good read and all the better for being free
I have the first two in the Zoe series and will definitely be reading them soon.
Definitely worth trying this book for a taste of Rachel's writing style.
Definitely a good read and all the better for being free
I have the first two in the Zoe series and will definitely be reading them soon.
Definitely worth trying this book for a taste of Rachel's writing style.
February 14, 2022
A good introduction to detective Zoe Finch. When people who used to work together are being murdered one by one, it is up to Zoe and the team to find out why and find the killer. Iam looking forward to reading more in the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews