Step into the fog-drenched streets of Victorian Edinburgh, where the Frey and McGray series by Oscar de Muriel spins a spellbinding mix of paranormal detective fiction! This thrilling saga follows the mismatched duo of Inspector Ian Frey, a sharp-witted skeptic from London, and Detective 'Nine-Nails' McGray, a superstitious Scot obsessed with the occult. Together, they tackle chilling mysteries that blur the line between reason and the supernatural, all wrapped in dark humor and rich historical detail.
With its gothic vibe, witty banter, and heart-pounding cases, Frey and McGray is a hidden gem for fans of Sherlock Holmes and Jonathan Creek. Ready to unravel the secrets of this unique series? Let’s dive in!
How Frey and McGray Began
Oscar de Muriel, a Mexican-born chemist, violinist, and storyteller, crafted the Frey and McGray series after falling in love with Edinburgh’s haunting beauty. Inspired by a friend’s offhand remark about a 'Victorian X-Files,' de Muriel envisioned a clash between rationality and superstition set in the late 19th century. His debut novel, The Strings of Murder (2015), introduced the dynamic duo, blending his passion for gothic literature, music, and Scotland’s rich history. The series grew from there, capturing readers with its atmospheric setting and quirky characters.
The Heart of Frey and McGray
The series kicks off with The Strings of Murder (2015), where Frey and McGray investigate a gruesome locked-room murder of a violinist, with black magic symbols and whispers of a cursed violin. A Fever of the Blood (2016) dives deeper, as the duo hunts an escaped asylum patient linked to a nurse’s death, unraveling rumors of black magic. A Mask of Shadows (2017) brings terror to Edinburgh’s theater scene, with eerie banshee wails and bloody prophecies tied to a Macbeth production. The final book, The Sign of the Devil (2022), ties up the series with a chilling case involving body snatchers and a devilish mark.
At its core, Frey and McGray thrives on its contrasting leads: Frey’s logic battles McGray’s belief in the supernatural, creating delicious tension and humor. Themes of science versus superstition, English-Scottish rivalry, and personal trauma weave through the narrative, grounded in Edinburgh’s gritty yet grand Victorian backdrop. De Muriel’s vivid prose and knack for blending historical accuracy with gothic thrills make each book a page-turner.
Why Frey and McGray Resonates
The Frey and McGray series has carved a niche in historical mystery fiction, earning praise for its atmospheric storytelling and unforgettable characters. Fans love the duo’s evolving bond, from reluctant partners to loyal allies, and de Muriel’s ability to balance creepy supernatural elements with clever detective work. Though not a mainstream blockbuster, the series has a devoted following, with readers on Goodreads and Amazon lauding its gothic charm and intricate plots. Its influence lies in proving that lesser-known series can captivate with originality and heart.
- Publication Years: 2015–2022
- Number of Books: 7 novels, 1 novella
- Setting: Victorian Edinburgh, late 1880s
- Genres: Historical Mystery, Paranormal Fiction, Crime Thriller
About Frey and McGray
Grab The Strings of Murder and plunge into Frey and McGray’s world of eerie crimes and witty banter. Your next favorite mystery awaits!