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DCI Gilchrist #10
The Murder List
'Gripping and grisly, with plenty of twists and turns that race along with black humour.' Craig Robertson
St. Andrews, When an elderly woman's naked body is found in her home, crucified to the floor, DCI Andy Gilchrist and his associate, DS Jessie Janes, find themselves in a hunt for a brutal serial killer. As the body count rises, suspicion falls on Tap 'Dancer' McCrear, a career criminal recently released from prison after serving fifteen years for a murder he swore he never committed.
As Gilchrist begins to uncover the terrifying truth behind each of the killings, his worst fears are realised when he learns that McCrear is killing everyone involved in his murder trial... for it was Gilchrist who arrested McCrear all those years ago.
High-flying Detective Superintendent Rommie Frazier, who leads the multi-constabulary task force searching for McCrear, clashes with Gilchrist over the detail of the investigation, and demands his removal. But Gilchrist won't leave without a fight, for he knows it is up to him to find Tap McCrear... before his own name is struck off the murder list.
PRAISE FOR T.F.
'Rebus did it for Edinburgh. Laidlaw did it for Glasgow. Gilchrist might just be the bloke to put St Andrews on the crime fiction map.' Daily Record
'A truly gripping read, with all the makings of a classic series.' Mick Herron
'DCI Gilchrist gets under your skin. Though, determined, and a bit vulnerable, this character will stay with you long after the last page.' Anna Smith
'Gripping!' Peterborough Telegraph
St. Andrews, When an elderly woman's naked body is found in her home, crucified to the floor, DCI Andy Gilchrist and his associate, DS Jessie Janes, find themselves in a hunt for a brutal serial killer. As the body count rises, suspicion falls on Tap 'Dancer' McCrear, a career criminal recently released from prison after serving fifteen years for a murder he swore he never committed.
As Gilchrist begins to uncover the terrifying truth behind each of the killings, his worst fears are realised when he learns that McCrear is killing everyone involved in his murder trial... for it was Gilchrist who arrested McCrear all those years ago.
High-flying Detective Superintendent Rommie Frazier, who leads the multi-constabulary task force searching for McCrear, clashes with Gilchrist over the detail of the investigation, and demands his removal. But Gilchrist won't leave without a fight, for he knows it is up to him to find Tap McCrear... before his own name is struck off the murder list.
PRAISE FOR T.F.
'Rebus did it for Edinburgh. Laidlaw did it for Glasgow. Gilchrist might just be the bloke to put St Andrews on the crime fiction map.' Daily Record
'A truly gripping read, with all the makings of a classic series.' Mick Herron
'DCI Gilchrist gets under your skin. Though, determined, and a bit vulnerable, this character will stay with you long after the last page.' Anna Smith
'Gripping!' Peterborough Telegraph
368 pages, Hardcover
Published February 11, 2021
27 people are currently reading
130 people want to read
About the author
T.F. Muir
19 books68 followersAka Frank Muir and T. Frank Muir
Born in Glasgow, Frank was plagued from a young age with the urge to see more of the world than the rain sodden slopes of the Campsie Fells. By the time he graduated from University with a degree he hated, he’d already had more jobs than the River Clyde has bends. Short stints as a lumberjack in the Scottish Highlands and a moulder’s labourer in the local foundry convinced Frank that his degree was not such a bad idea after all. Twenty-five years of working overseas helped him appreciate the raw beauty of his home country. Now a dual US/UK citizen, Frank divides his time between Richmond, Virginia, and Glasgow, Scotland, carrying out research in the local pubs and restaurants. Frank is currently doing some serious book research in St Andrews' local pubs, and working on his next novel, another crime story suffused with dark alleyways and cobbled streets and some things gruesome.
Born in Glasgow, Frank was plagued from a young age with the urge to see more of the world than the rain sodden slopes of the Campsie Fells. By the time he graduated from University with a degree he hated, he’d already had more jobs than the River Clyde has bends. Short stints as a lumberjack in the Scottish Highlands and a moulder’s labourer in the local foundry convinced Frank that his degree was not such a bad idea after all. Twenty-five years of working overseas helped him appreciate the raw beauty of his home country. Now a dual US/UK citizen, Frank divides his time between Richmond, Virginia, and Glasgow, Scotland, carrying out research in the local pubs and restaurants. Frank is currently doing some serious book research in St Andrews' local pubs, and working on his next novel, another crime story suffused with dark alleyways and cobbled streets and some things gruesome.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
April 26, 2022
The Murder List
A horrifying and sickening sequence of murders brings St Andrews based detective DCI Andy Gilchrist back to work from sick leave. It seems there is a revengeful murder list and it's entirely possible that Gilchrist's name will be on it. Detective Superintendent Rommie Frazier takes charge of the team investigating the crimes and he's a very different officer to Gilchrist.
This is a well written mystery/thriller with a well thought out fast paced plot to keep your attention glued. There are plenty of twists and turns, some of which are terrifyingly callous. This is a challenging and tricky case as the perpetrator seems extremely meticulous and you feel the teams frustration.
The characterisation is good especially of Gilchrist as the author makes him feel real. He is driven, hard working, maybe a bit obsessive with cases but clearly has a good relationship with his team as there is lovely, entertaining banter between them. There's a good blend of personal with the case which fleshes characters out. The portrayal of Rommie Frazier is good although he's not especially likeable. He's a very ambitious career driven officer and you definitely sense the crackling tension and animosity between him and Gilchrist.
There are some weird scenes and oddball characters encountered along the way with the whole thing building well. Some aspects are not entirely unexpected but you still gasp at the audacity. There are some very good descriptions in the finale which add to the drama.
I certainly want to read more Andy Gilchrist and I love the St Andrews location.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Little, Brown Book Group/Constable for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
A horrifying and sickening sequence of murders brings St Andrews based detective DCI Andy Gilchrist back to work from sick leave. It seems there is a revengeful murder list and it's entirely possible that Gilchrist's name will be on it. Detective Superintendent Rommie Frazier takes charge of the team investigating the crimes and he's a very different officer to Gilchrist.
This is a well written mystery/thriller with a well thought out fast paced plot to keep your attention glued. There are plenty of twists and turns, some of which are terrifyingly callous. This is a challenging and tricky case as the perpetrator seems extremely meticulous and you feel the teams frustration.
The characterisation is good especially of Gilchrist as the author makes him feel real. He is driven, hard working, maybe a bit obsessive with cases but clearly has a good relationship with his team as there is lovely, entertaining banter between them. There's a good blend of personal with the case which fleshes characters out. The portrayal of Rommie Frazier is good although he's not especially likeable. He's a very ambitious career driven officer and you definitely sense the crackling tension and animosity between him and Gilchrist.
There are some weird scenes and oddball characters encountered along the way with the whole thing building well. Some aspects are not entirely unexpected but you still gasp at the audacity. There are some very good descriptions in the finale which add to the drama.
I certainly want to read more Andy Gilchrist and I love the St Andrews location.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Little, Brown Book Group/Constable for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
March 25, 2023
I enjoyed this despite not having read any others in the series. The crime was solved a bit out of nowhere but the tension was great throughout and it kept me reading till the early hours.
February 14, 2021
Another solid TF Muir read: Well written, well narrated. Yet, although it's been at least a year since Covid-19 became a fact of life worldwide, this is another example of one of my favourite authors pretending it doesn't exist. Once again I find it as strange as a book set 1940 completely ignoring the Second World War.
August 2, 2021
I enjoyed this, but I am getting a bit fed up with every criminal being out to get Andy Gilchrist.
As per the title, the criminal in this tale has a list of people that he wants to kill and they didn't do things how he wanted them - I don't want to give too much away. Interesting, but the books are now starting to get a bit far fetched.
As per the title, the criminal in this tale has a list of people that he wants to kill and they didn't do things how he wanted them - I don't want to give too much away. Interesting, but the books are now starting to get a bit far fetched.
August 28, 2021
The Murder List by TF Muir and narrated by David Monteath is a fascinating read of Seidel killers and how the police work to capture and end their killing spree. In this storyline DCI Gilchrist and his team work hard to capture the killer involved in this nasty spate of murders and is almost the last victim.
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the next in the series.
Highly recommended
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the next in the series.
Highly recommended
January 11, 2022
I listened to the audiobook version expertly narrated by David Monteith.
Book 9 ended with Andy Gilchrist passing out. This starts with him recovering and starting to feel better, well enough to get involved in another murder case. When another body turns up and it becomes apparent that they both have numbers carved into their chest. One has 1 the other 4, so they have a serial killer on their hands.
A task force is set up and a high flying Detective Superintendent is parachuted in to head it up. This naturally irks Gilchrist and they do not get along. It is Gilchrist who makes the breakthrough and links it to an old case where he was responsible for Tap McCrear getting sent down. McCrear is after revenge against all those responsible for his trial and has a murder list.
Gilchrist is of course on the list and is thrust into a nightmare.
Its gruesome stuff at times and the murders are graphic but there is always Jessie Janes to add lighthearted moments.
Book 9 ended with Andy Gilchrist passing out. This starts with him recovering and starting to feel better, well enough to get involved in another murder case. When another body turns up and it becomes apparent that they both have numbers carved into their chest. One has 1 the other 4, so they have a serial killer on their hands.
A task force is set up and a high flying Detective Superintendent is parachuted in to head it up. This naturally irks Gilchrist and they do not get along. It is Gilchrist who makes the breakthrough and links it to an old case where he was responsible for Tap McCrear getting sent down. McCrear is after revenge against all those responsible for his trial and has a murder list.
Gilchrist is of course on the list and is thrust into a nightmare.
Its gruesome stuff at times and the murders are graphic but there is always Jessie Janes to add lighthearted moments.
May 1, 2022
When DCI Andy Gilchrist and his DS Jessie Janes are called to investigate the brutal murder of a pensioner crucified in her own home with her tongue removed they quickly find themselves on the hunt for a serial killer. As more victims are discovered, their investigation leads them to believe the perpetrator is someone from DCI Gilchrist’s past, and his worst fears are brought to the surface as he appears to be one of the killer’s targets, having put him in prison for murder, one he says he is innocent of. Can they stop the killer before it’s too late?
This is the first book I have read in this series and I really enjoyed it, plenty of twists and turns. The main characters are likeable and easy to warm to. It was really easy for me to pick up the story having not read any of the previous books.
Thank you for the pre-read of this one, I’ll definitely be reading the rest now and look forward to more!
This is the first book I have read in this series and I really enjoyed it, plenty of twists and turns. The main characters are likeable and easy to warm to. It was really easy for me to pick up the story having not read any of the previous books.
Thank you for the pre-read of this one, I’ll definitely be reading the rest now and look forward to more!
November 3, 2022
Um, okay.
The premise of this one is good if not a bit contrived -- gruesome murders occurring, the rogue detective on the case.
The story holds up, though the editor in me was cringing at some of the repetitions, over-explanations (please trust your readers to get what you said the first time, okay?), faulty grammar. Frankly, a good editor should have caught these issues. I wish the author hadn't leaned on the now-cliched plot line of the rogue detective and the killers always, always targeting him. I can't speak to Muir's other plots as this was the first of his books I've read. But if he uses that same formula for each book, I'm not interested.
It's a shame as the story does click along and is interesting otherwise. But a story should be solid throughout, not one that has me trying to overlook the problems to enjoy it.
The premise of this one is good if not a bit contrived -- gruesome murders occurring, the rogue detective on the case.
The story holds up, though the editor in me was cringing at some of the repetitions, over-explanations (please trust your readers to get what you said the first time, okay?), faulty grammar. Frankly, a good editor should have caught these issues. I wish the author hadn't leaned on the now-cliched plot line of the rogue detective and the killers always, always targeting him. I can't speak to Muir's other plots as this was the first of his books I've read. But if he uses that same formula for each book, I'm not interested.
It's a shame as the story does click along and is interesting otherwise. But a story should be solid throughout, not one that has me trying to overlook the problems to enjoy it.
April 27, 2022
I love this series that features DCI Andy Gilchrist and his team and his latest book The Murder List is on another level. Set in Scotland this is Scottish Noir on speed. This book has everything, horrific gruesome murders and a brilliant police procedural. Packed to the rafters with tension and suspense and a climax which had me holding my breath and feeling a little queasy. Andy has just made it to the top of someone's murder list. Another in this hard boiled, no punches pulled crime thriller that leaves you definitely wanting more NOW!!!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
November 30, 2022
DCI Andy Gilchrist und sein Team müssen sich bei diesem Fall mit einem Serienkiller auseinander setzen, der seine Opfer auf besonders brutale Weise tötet: er kreuzigt sie auf dem Boden ihres Wohnzimmers. Bis jetzt gibt es drei Opfer, zwischen denen zunächst kein Zusammenhang hergestellt werden kann. Aber dann muss Andy erkennen, dass auch er im Visier des Täters steht.
Mit dem Motiv zu "The murder list" hat sich der Autor meiner Meinung nach übernommen. Beim Lesen kam es mir immer wieder so vor, als ob T.F. Muir im letzten Moment vor allzu grausamen Motiven zurückschrecken würde. Die erzeugte Spannung verpuffte so immer wieder aufs Neue. Andy Gilchrist unternimmt wieder einen seiner Alleingänge. Dieses Mal ist er klüger als die gesamte Sonderkommission, das war nicht glaubwürdig. Sicher hätten dem Buch ein paar Seiten mehr gut getan. Nachdem ich auch den Vorgänger von "The murder list" schwächer fand als die übrigen Bücher der Reihe, werde ich erst einmal eine Pause einlegen.
Mit dem Motiv zu "The murder list" hat sich der Autor meiner Meinung nach übernommen. Beim Lesen kam es mir immer wieder so vor, als ob T.F. Muir im letzten Moment vor allzu grausamen Motiven zurückschrecken würde. Die erzeugte Spannung verpuffte so immer wieder aufs Neue. Andy Gilchrist unternimmt wieder einen seiner Alleingänge. Dieses Mal ist er klüger als die gesamte Sonderkommission, das war nicht glaubwürdig. Sicher hätten dem Buch ein paar Seiten mehr gut getan. Nachdem ich auch den Vorgänger von "The murder list" schwächer fand als die übrigen Bücher der Reihe, werde ich erst einmal eine Pause einlegen.
February 26, 2023
This was a great book. DI Gilchrist comes back from sick leave (after the previous case) and he is back early so he should be sitting with his feet up. But alas our hero is back in the office taking things easy and it’s not long before murders start piling up. As things are Police Scotland band together a merry bunch with A superintendent at the helm Rommie Fraser who in my opinion is a bit of an arse. Tells Gilchrist many times he is off the case despite Andy getting all the leads. Fraser is good at designating but an awful policeman. It’s gruesome and it’s a list. A murder list and guess who’s name is on it. A fast moving pace and edge of your seat stuff takes Andy and Jesse all over the place. Brilliant plot well executed you will not be disappointed
September 9, 2021
This is a police procedural set in Scotland and I quite liked the fact that I was familiar with many of the places mentioned in the book. However I was uneasy with the descriptions of what the killer did to the victims before they died. This is certainly not a book for the squeamish. The main characters did not come across to me as real people and I did not really like the plot of someone who has been released from prison seeking revenge on the people who had put him there. So, not a bad read but I doubt I will look for any of the books in this series.
December 11, 2022
I am addicted to T.F. Muir. Using the format of a police procedural he continues to write novels which are the very best of Scottish Noir. Full of suspense and unexpected twists and turns, the quality of writing is exceptional in this series. DCI Andy Gilchrist and DS Jessie Janes are extraordinary characters, never quite following the rules in their pursuit of justice. The crime scenes are searing images of blood-soaked horror and the investigations are intense and intriguing.
The plot here is complex and authentic with a serial killer every bit as dark and deadly as Hannibal Lecter.
The plot here is complex and authentic with a serial killer every bit as dark and deadly as Hannibal Lecter.
August 18, 2023
I loved this, I was hooked from early on.
Ok I felt I was chasing my tail with the storyline but I felt it made me feel how the characters must have felt trying to solve the crimes. I’ve read a few really graphically described stories but this one was up there with the few that made me squirm. This is NOT a read for the faint of heart.
I’m so glad that DCI Gilchrist survived and has a new potential lady friend.
Can’t wait to start book 11
Ok I felt I was chasing my tail with the storyline but I felt it made me feel how the characters must have felt trying to solve the crimes. I’ve read a few really graphically described stories but this one was up there with the few that made me squirm. This is NOT a read for the faint of heart.
I’m so glad that DCI Gilchrist survived and has a new potential lady friend.
Can’t wait to start book 11
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2023
Another solid addictive read in this wonderful series and book ten is the best to date. Darker than previous books, giving the book an interesting edge, but not too gory. I must confess I’m ever so slightly in love with Andy Gilchrist who is on fine form in this book following on from the cliff hanger in the last book. Amazing writing, superb characters and a setting that just makes you want to go there. Absolute winner for me
March 26, 2021
Just keeps getting better..
A definite 5* for this latest offering from T.F.Muir. The cliffhanger from the previous story left you wanting more, and the author certainly provided that in this book. Again I'm left waiting impatiently for the next book in the series of the life of DCI Andy Gilchrist both at work and a developing personal life.
A definite 5* for this latest offering from T.F.Muir. The cliffhanger from the previous story left you wanting more, and the author certainly provided that in this book. Again I'm left waiting impatiently for the next book in the series of the life of DCI Andy Gilchrist both at work and a developing personal life.
May 11, 2021
Having now read about six books in the series i have come to the conclusion that there are better crime writers out there. D.ci gilchrist is a fair read but only that, muir is not on the same level as sandford, burke, rankin , billingham connelly, and my favourite p grainger. Its GOOD READ so just go out and BUY the book.
December 25, 2021
This is the 10th book in the DCI Andy Gilchrist series set in St Andrews, Fife. I love this series not just because I’ve lived in Fife all my life but also because of the gripping storylines and the fantastic characters. I could happily read about Andy, Jessie and the team forever more. Please keep writing Mr Muir. 5⭐️ must read.
March 25, 2022
I really enjoyed this book, it was well written with well developed characters, an engaging and compelling storyline and well developed characters. It was a gripping read that was crammed full of suspense twists and unpredictability, enveloped with a fast pace and tension galore. I will definitely be looking for more from this author.
March 28, 2022
This is book 10 in the DCI Gilchrist series, set in St Andrews. The team are struggling to find a serial killer who is a bit close to home for Gilchrist. It's well written and very descriptive, not for the squeamish but the plot is interesting. I really enjoy this series of books, full of suspense and twists, as well as interesting characters. Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.
April 22, 2022
A gripping story that kept on the edge till the end. It's not one for the faint of heart as it's quite detailed, gorey, and the killer is very cruel.
That said it's a well written thriller, I was glad to catch up with the characters and the solid plot kept me turning pages.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
That said it's a well written thriller, I was glad to catch up with the characters and the solid plot kept me turning pages.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
May 19, 2025
Random people are being killed, first they are crucified to the floor of their home then tongues removed leading to drowning by blood....but are they random? Andy and the team will have to work with a Task Force which naturally isn't going to go well. Andy in another near death situation...and maybe a new woman in his life?
March 13, 2022
The Americanisms, no one in Fife or even Scotland ever used the word jello in place of jam. Main characters were not at all likeable. Only saving grace was that the new love interest didn't turn out to be connected to the villain.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2022
A gruesome gritty intelligent police drama with plenty of unsettling murders for the team to investigate in various Scottish locations. Plenty of suspense and drama to keep the reader entertained throughout.
September 25, 2022
'3 and a bit' stars, rounded down to 3. The pace and action is enough to keep one reading, but there isn't a lot of mystery or reveal. The shock value mainly comes from gruesomeness rather than intrigue or intelligent writing. Overall, I'd say good for reading at the airport.
November 26, 2022
The tenth DCI Andy Gilchrist police procedural set in the picturesque Scottish university town of St. Andrews is another grisly murder mystery distinguished by complex plotting and sympathetic characterization.
May 24, 2023
Horrific, but redemptive
Terrific narration by Monteath. A plot that will keep you guessing, and horrific murder scenes that are graphically depicted. A monster of a woman called ‘Deeps’ will finally be revealed. Will the Murder List be completed? Read on.
Terrific narration by Monteath. A plot that will keep you guessing, and horrific murder scenes that are graphically depicted. A monster of a woman called ‘Deeps’ will finally be revealed. Will the Murder List be completed? Read on.
August 10, 2021
Another page turner.
Once again TF Muir captures the attention of his reader and leads them a not so merry dance through Fife.
Once again TF Muir captures the attention of his reader and leads them a not so merry dance through Fife.
January 27, 2022
( Format : Audiobook )
"There's something of right about this one."
Review follows
"There's something of right about this one."
Review follows
February 6, 2022
Much better than the previous books. Gilchrist seems more human, the plot is good.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews