Step into the shadowy streets of St. Andrews, where Detective Clare Mackay unravels chilling mysteries in Marion Todd’s gripping Scottish crime fiction series. With her sharp instincts and a past that haunts her every step, Clare is a beacon of justice in a town where secrets lurk behind every picturesque corner. Perfect for fans of Tartan Noir, this series blends heart-pounding suspense with a vivid sense of place, making it a must-read for crime fiction lovers.
From the first page, you’re hooked by Clare’s tenacity and the atmospheric charm of St. Andrews—a setting that feels as alive as the characters. Let’s dive into the world of Detective Clare Mackay and discover why this series is carving out a special place in Scottish crime literature.
How Detective Clare Mackay Began
Marion Todd, a Dundee native with a knack for storytelling, crafted the Detective Clare Mackay series after a diverse career as a pianist, lecturer, and candle-maker. Inspired by her love for crime fiction and the scenic allure of St. Andrews, Todd introduced Clare in her debut novel, See Them Run, in 2019. The book’s success, including a shortlist for the Bloody Scotland Scottish Crime Debut Novel of the Year 2020, launched a series that’s now a cornerstone of Tartan Noir. Todd’s meticulous research and local knowledge infuse the series with authenticity, making Clare’s investigations feel ripped from reality.
The Heart of Detective Clare Mackay
The series kicks off with See Them Run, where Clare, newly transferred from Glasgow to St. Andrews after a traumatic incident, tackles a series of hit-and-run murders marked by numbered cards. The stakes escalate in In Plain Sight, as Clare races to find a kidnapped baby with a life-threatening heart condition, uncovering dark secrets in the process. Lies to Tell delves into internal police breaches, blending ethical hacking with murder investigations, while Bridges to Burn, the eighth installment, explores a schoolgirl’s death tied to deeper conspiracies.
Todd’s novels weave themes of justice, betrayal, and personal redemption, all set against the hauntingly beautiful backdrop of St. Andrews. Clare’s complex past—a Glasgow operation gone wrong—adds depth, making her both relatable and resilient. The series’ police procedural style is peppered with twists, authentic dialogue, and a strong female lead who bends rules when needed but never loses her moral compass. Readers praise the vivid sense of place, with St. Andrews’ cobbled streets and coastal charm almost stealing the show.
Why Detective Clare Mackay Resonates
The Detective Clare Mackay series has struck a chord with fans of Scottish crime fiction, offering a fresh take on the genre through its compelling protagonist and unique setting. Todd’s ability to craft tight plots and believable characters has earned her comparisons to Alex Gray and Val McDermid. The series’ blend of gritty investigations and Clare’s personal growth keeps readers invested, while its St. Andrews backdrop appeals to locals and international fans alike. With each book, Todd cements her status as a rising star in Tartan Noir, leaving readers eager for more.
- Publication Years: 2019–2025 (ongoing)
- Number of Books: 9 (with a 10th, Watch Them Fall, slated for 2026)
- Award: See Them Run shortlisted for Bloody Scotland Scottish Crime Debut Novel of the Year 2020
Ready to unravel mysteries with a detective who’s as tough as she is compassionate? Grab See Them Run and dive into Detective Clare Mackay’s thrilling world of Scottish crime fiction today!