What do you think?
Rate this book
Dorset Crime #0
The Ballard Down Murder
DS Dennis Frampton is getting used to life without his old boss DCI Mackie, and managing to hide how much he hates being in charge of Dorset's Major Crimes Investigation Team. Above all, he must make sure no one knows he's still seeking Mackie's advice on cases.
But then Mackie doesn't show up to a meeting, and a body is found below the cliffs a few miles away.
When Dennis discovers the body is his old friend and mentor, his world is thrown upside down. Did Mackie kill himself, or was he pushed? Is Dennis's new boss trying to hush things up? And can Dennis and the CSIs trust the evidence?
The Ballard Down Murder is a free prequel novella, exclusive to members of the Rachel McLean book club.
But then Mackie doesn't show up to a meeting, and a body is found below the cliffs a few miles away.
When Dennis discovers the body is his old friend and mentor, his world is thrown upside down. Did Mackie kill himself, or was he pushed? Is Dennis's new boss trying to hush things up? And can Dennis and the CSIs trust the evidence?
The Ballard Down Murder is a free prequel novella, exclusive to members of the Rachel McLean book club.
ebook
First published February 16, 2022
26 people are currently reading
990 people want to read
About the author
Rachel McLean
105 books630 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
June 3, 2022
Prequel novella to the Dorset Crime series, free from the author's website.
DCI Tim Mackie has recently retired but his old Sergeant Dennis Frampton still hasn't got used to the change and likes to consult him on cases from time to time. When DCI Mackie fails to meet up for a pint and a chat one lunchtime Dennis is hurt but just thinks he's been forgotten. Until Tim's body is found at the foot of treacherous hills that night.
Dennis can't believe Tim would kill himself, but how can he naysay all the evidence?
As there are seven books in this series I don't think it will be a spoiler if I say I find the Superintendent's behaviour very suspect ...
DCI Tim Mackie has recently retired but his old Sergeant Dennis Frampton still hasn't got used to the change and likes to consult him on cases from time to time. When DCI Mackie fails to meet up for a pint and a chat one lunchtime Dennis is hurt but just thinks he's been forgotten. Until Tim's body is found at the foot of treacherous hills that night.
Dennis can't believe Tim would kill himself, but how can he naysay all the evidence?
As there are seven books in this series I don't think it will be a spoiler if I say I find the Superintendent's behaviour very suspect ...
January 31, 2022
The prequel to the Dorset crime series where we find a little more out about the team and what happened with Tim Mackie before the arrival of Lesley.
Great book, great series
Great book, great series
August 5, 2024
I finished this prequel and then started the first book, so I almost forgot to update the status and do the review.
The story was intriguing, and I'm hoping that one part that wasn't cleared up gets addressed in a future (for me) novel. The MC here is actually a somewhat secondary character in the series. He's pretty uptight in the first book, but I don't know if it's his norm or if it's a result of the murder that happened in this story.
Other characters from this one are also in the first book, and their behavior in relation to the deceased character carries over to it, too. I dislike their superintendent, and it wouldn't surprise me if he ends up being corrupt in a later novel.
I plan on continuing this series because the first book has been pretty good.
The story was intriguing, and I'm hoping that one part that wasn't cleared up gets addressed in a future (for me) novel. The MC here is actually a somewhat secondary character in the series. He's pretty uptight in the first book, but I don't know if it's his norm or if it's a result of the murder that happened in this story.
Other characters from this one are also in the first book, and their behavior in relation to the deceased character carries over to it, too. I dislike their superintendent, and it wouldn't surprise me if he ends up being corrupt in a later novel.
I plan on continuing this series because the first book has been pretty good.
August 13, 2025
Es una precuela, un relato corto que no ofrece mucho. Se lee rápido, pero no me aporto nada nuevo.
June 26, 2025
Not as good as I expected.
May 28, 2022
I came to this story after reading the 1st DCI Clarke story where there were questions raised about the apparent suicide of her retired predecessor. In the authors notes at the end of the book, read on Kindle, was a link to this prequel novella. These stories are very well written and I am enjoying them. I do recommend this and the rest of the series. I am now reading the 2nd DCI Clarke book and the themes and characters are building nicely. I know the area a little, but even if I didn't there is enough written to help you settle into the landscape and lose yourself in the tale. Enjoy.
March 2, 2022
I am not a fan of prequels generally, but I make an exception for Rachel McLean, who uses them to great purpose. In the Zoe Finch series she used it to introduce Zoe and her family, and for this latest series she uses it to set up the series, introducing some of the key characters, except DCI Clarke, who we know, and setting up the background to what is to follow. Her writing seems to me to be getting even better and my whistle is truly wetted for the series.
November 5, 2024
The Prequel to the Dorset murder series.
I found this after I'd read the 1st of the Dorset Murders the The Corfe Castle Murders, and it had the back ground to events before DCI Lesley Clarke arrived. I enjoyed this is not as gritty as with the new DCI but it's definitely a read that sets you up well for the series.
DS Frampton isn't an easy guy to like, but this gives an insight into the why of his character and part of who he is and the shock of his previous bosses death. Something the new DCI won't be aware of and I feel well be a on going theme in the background so this is a great way to start what is a truly wonderful series. I also like the insight into the next boss up as well Carpenter there's something to watch for there!
I do recommend this is a good read and a springboard or maybe stepping stone is a better word to set you up for what I personally feel is a great series the "Dorset Murders" it is a standalone but I think if you read this you will want to keep going in the journey as I feel the death of the DCI isn't a completely closed book but read and judge for yourself.
I found this after I'd read the 1st of the Dorset Murders the The Corfe Castle Murders, and it had the back ground to events before DCI Lesley Clarke arrived. I enjoyed this is not as gritty as with the new DCI but it's definitely a read that sets you up well for the series.
DS Frampton isn't an easy guy to like, but this gives an insight into the why of his character and part of who he is and the shock of his previous bosses death. Something the new DCI won't be aware of and I feel well be a on going theme in the background so this is a great way to start what is a truly wonderful series. I also like the insight into the next boss up as well Carpenter there's something to watch for there!
I do recommend this is a good read and a springboard or maybe stepping stone is a better word to set you up for what I personally feel is a great series the "Dorset Murders" it is a standalone but I think if you read this you will want to keep going in the journey as I feel the death of the DCI isn't a completely closed book but read and judge for yourself.
October 5, 2025
This is the prequel to the "Dorset Crime" series of books by Rachel McLean.
DCI Tim Mackie has retired from the Serious Crimes Squad, booked a cruise for himself and his wife Gwen and was looking forward to a long, fulfilling retirement. It wasn't to be. On the day he was meeting with a former colleague, Mackie's body is found at the bottom of the cliffs. His former team are tasked with investigating it. DS Dennis Frampton is temporarily in charge, but, as he'd been close friends with Mackie, this was more difficult for him than for the others in the team. The Chief Superintendent, Anthony Carpenter, wants to observe, which he does, but he makes everyone, even Mackie's widow, feel very uneasy. There's no satisfactory conclusion to the investigation. The Coroner's Court brings in a verdict of 'suicide', but not everyone agrees with this.
This is a recurring theme in the first six full novels in the series, as an investigation into the
DCI's death is run parallel to other cases. There often seems to be some evidence that provides a link between all the enquiries.
Looking forward to reading the seventh instalment.
DCI Tim Mackie has retired from the Serious Crimes Squad, booked a cruise for himself and his wife Gwen and was looking forward to a long, fulfilling retirement. It wasn't to be. On the day he was meeting with a former colleague, Mackie's body is found at the bottom of the cliffs. His former team are tasked with investigating it. DS Dennis Frampton is temporarily in charge, but, as he'd been close friends with Mackie, this was more difficult for him than for the others in the team. The Chief Superintendent, Anthony Carpenter, wants to observe, which he does, but he makes everyone, even Mackie's widow, feel very uneasy. There's no satisfactory conclusion to the investigation. The Coroner's Court brings in a verdict of 'suicide', but not everyone agrees with this.
This is a recurring theme in the first six full novels in the series, as an investigation into the
DCI's death is run parallel to other cases. There often seems to be some evidence that provides a link between all the enquiries.
Looking forward to reading the seventh instalment.
February 4, 2023
I've read and enjoyed the political thrillers this author has written, and happily signed up for her newsletter, receiving this prequel as a thank you freebie. I do love UK based crime fiction, and the idea of having a new series to get stuck into appeals greatly.
In this story, the DS has to investigate the death of a retired colleague, his former boss really, and also a sounding board in recent months. The outcome - and the coroner's subsequent report - goes against everything he thought his boss stood for, but the evidence points to it being a suicide.
Like the DS, I'm not convinced, and expect to find this case crop up further in the series. For me, it's not a closed case, regardless of what the annoying Superintendent says, and he's definitely still on my suspect list. Looking forward to this series and the Zoe Finch one. .
In this story, the DS has to investigate the death of a retired colleague, his former boss really, and also a sounding board in recent months. The outcome - and the coroner's subsequent report - goes against everything he thought his boss stood for, but the evidence points to it being a suicide.
Like the DS, I'm not convinced, and expect to find this case crop up further in the series. For me, it's not a closed case, regardless of what the annoying Superintendent says, and he's definitely still on my suspect list. Looking forward to this series and the Zoe Finch one. .
July 6, 2022
I read this prequel between reading books 2 & 3 so it was a very useful story “filler-in”. The DCI Clarke books (which I didn’t fancy reading after meeting her character from the series of DI Finch. However, as I end book 3 I’m well into the Dorset gang now & have enjoyed them all to date - as I start book 4. The Rachel Mclean books are well written, very interesting, real page turners & an array of varying stories - I’m now a big fan. Looking forward to reading about Zoe Finch again soon. I was unable to download the prequel to my kindle but was able to read it on my iPhone.
March 20, 2022
I was directed to Rachel McLean's books by another author, Simon Mcleave for which I can only say thankyou.
I enjoyed the first book in the series and moved quickly onto the second so was very pleased to receive the prequel which sets things up and identifies the characters more, without having sections of the book you're reading going back over the history and in some cases leading to total confusion.
I enjoyed the first book in the series and moved quickly onto the second so was very pleased to receive the prequel which sets things up and identifies the characters more, without having sections of the book you're reading going back over the history and in some cases leading to total confusion.
August 5, 2022
I thought this prequel might get me interested in the other crime novels from this author. Instead though, there didn't seem to be any resolution to this particular mystery so perhaps it was written only for those who have read what comes later rather than for newbies.
A policeman investigates his retired boss' apparent suicide, but finds no evidence that our might be murder ... not exactly thrilling stuff, just a possible teaser for a other book.
A policeman investigates his retired boss' apparent suicide, but finds no evidence that our might be murder ... not exactly thrilling stuff, just a possible teaser for a other book.
January 6, 2023
I was given this story and it further delves into the death of DCI Mackie, the former boss of DS Dennis Frampton. It’s a mysterious death and all points to suicide. However, as touched upon in The Corfe Castle crime thriller, nothing is set in stone.
I don’t know if this story where this extra story will be concluded but it certainly left me unsure of the truth and suspecting certain individuals.
Well written and good for this genre.
I don’t know if this story where this extra story will be concluded but it certainly left me unsure of the truth and suspecting certain individuals.
Well written and good for this genre.
May 14, 2023
This Novella is an introduction to DCI Lesley Clarke’s move from Birmingham to Dorset. When her predecessor is found dead at the bottom of a cliff 6 weeks before her arrival we focus on Sergeant Dennis Frampton who investigates his former colleague’s death. This book introduces all the characters who will feature in the Dorset Murder series. It is a free download and worth reading before you get stuck in to the series proper.
January 12, 2025
I've rounded it up to 2 stars because the author offered this one for free with the premise that we would find out what happened to DC Mackie. I read the corfe castle murders and am keen to read more but this has left a bad taste in my mouth because I learnt nothing, this was a waste of time in my opinion. I will probably read some of her other books and try to forget this ever happened....
If you're looking for answers you will not find them here.
On reflection I'm putting it at 1 star.
If you're looking for answers you will not find them here.
On reflection I'm putting it at 1 star.
March 1, 2022
I have had the Dorset Crime series on my radar for a while. Saw this one free and that it was prequel and jumped in prior to starting the series. I wasn't disappointed. I enjoy Rachel McLean books anyway but this was a easy read which left me wondering throughout the story, 'was it, wasn't it? It has introduced the characters, believable ones which does grab your interest to read more.
March 22, 2022
Read The Corfe Castle book first. Was delighted to be invited to a free
copy of this prequel. This book really fleshed out the characters and leads
nicely into the first book. I really am loving the series so far and have started
The Clifftop Murders last night. I am sure that the rest of the books in the
series will be equally enjoyable.
Kind regards
Patrick Raymond
copy of this prequel. This book really fleshed out the characters and leads
nicely into the first book. I really am loving the series so far and have started
The Clifftop Murders last night. I am sure that the rest of the books in the
series will be equally enjoyable.
Kind regards
Patrick Raymond
April 19, 2022
I have read all the later books in this series. So my review may seem unfair. I just want to know more - and found it frustrating it only went as far as it did as there could be so much more.
I think it would encourage you to read the rest of the series. Thoroughly recommend the series as a whole and I enjoy Rachel's well-written books
I think it would encourage you to read the rest of the series. Thoroughly recommend the series as a whole and I enjoy Rachel's well-written books
May 27, 2022
I LOVED getting to know the back story to all the characters lives before Mackie died and Lesley came in! As always i thoroughly enjoyed reading this and really struggled to put it down, can't believe I have to wait so long for the next installment! Will definitely be looking into getting some more of Rachel's books as I have loved them all!
July 14, 2022
I read this after Rachel's Corfe Castle Murders. It was interesting to find out more about Dennis Frampton and the death of his Boss Mackie. I'm now reading the second book in the Dorset Murder series. I like reading books when I know something of the area. Lesley is quite a character and I'm looking forward to get to know her better. Rachel spins quite a tale..not obvious who the killers are.
September 29, 2022
I’ve been reading both the DCI Clarke and DI finch series, so when I found out about this it seemed the obvious choice. It gives us some good background into Dennis and how he feels about things and I feel explains a bit about why he struggled initially with Lesley. However, as you would expect from Rachel it doesn’t give you the answers! Looking forward to finding out more.
November 9, 2022
Interesting novella that covers the death of retired DCI Mackie, and ends with the arrival of his replacement Lesley Clarke.
A couple of suspicious things are evident:
1 - Chief Superintendant Carpenter seems very keen to have the death established as suicide
2 - The book is entitled 'The Ballard Down Murder' - which would be odd indeed if there were no murder...
A couple of suspicious things are evident:
1 - Chief Superintendant Carpenter seems very keen to have the death established as suicide
2 - The book is entitled 'The Ballard Down Murder' - which would be odd indeed if there were no murder...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2023
Yes I did get this book OK and have finished it already.
As a prequel I enjoyed it as a lead into "The Corfe Castle Murders" which I had already started to read. It has given me a better insight into the initial tensions apparent in the police team and also generates a kind of suspense now over where this story line will go as I get further into the Corfe Murders novel.
PB25
As a prequel I enjoyed it as a lead into "The Corfe Castle Murders" which I had already started to read. It has given me a better insight into the initial tensions apparent in the police team and also generates a kind of suspense now over where this story line will go as I get further into the Corfe Murders novel.
PB25
June 2, 2023
I have been thoroughly enjoying reading the Dorset Crime Books. I know the area well and feel I am observing the investigations as I read. Great characters and story lines which leave you wanting to find out more about the Ballard Murder in the next book. The Ballard Murder brings an insight to the mystery that continues. Thank you for such great reads.
September 6, 2023
After reading the complete “Jackman and Evans” series on Kindle Unlimited I read the Ballard Down Murder to get some insight into the death of DCI Mackie!
I would recommend anyone interested in police drama to read this “page turner” series, possibly starting with “Ballard Down”!
I have now moved on to Detective Zoe Finch … I will let you know how I get on!
I would recommend anyone interested in police drama to read this “page turner” series, possibly starting with “Ballard Down”!
I have now moved on to Detective Zoe Finch … I will let you know how I get on!
September 16, 2023
Audiobook
I was given this review copy at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I found this intriguing, cliched in parts, yet enthralling.
While the overall story and plotline suggested one thing which it turns out to be, the characters perseverance of disagreeing in total opposition to what evidence is found.
I was given this review copy at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I found this intriguing, cliched in parts, yet enthralling.
While the overall story and plotline suggested one thing which it turns out to be, the characters perseverance of disagreeing in total opposition to what evidence is found.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2024
A great short story that leads perfectly into the Dorset Crime books. DS Frampton is left in charge of the Major Crimes Unit following DCI Mackie’s retirement, but really he is out of his depth and still looks to his old boss for guidance.
They have arranged to meet up, but Mackie doesn’t show up and Frampton has to attend a crime scene.
Very enjoyable.
They have arranged to meet up, but Mackie doesn’t show up and Frampton has to attend a crime scene.
Very enjoyable.
April 24, 2024
A great prequel which I was able to access quickly and easily. I will always prefer the paper books but this was a quick easy read on book funnel. Slowly working my way through the Dorset murders series and looking forward to reading the DCI Zoe Finch books. Rachel you are one of my favourite authors.
Thank you for providing this free.
Thank you for providing this free.
March 16, 2022
Really enjoyed the prequel can’t wait to read more. Have read so many of your books. Dorset crime series has to be a favourite loving the characters. Please keep writing such wonderful story’s
Rose C.
Rose C.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews