Plot:

Blood and Money is a crime novel featuring DI Jade Tanner and forensic psychologist Dr. Petra McBride investigating the murders of two wealthy businessmen in Scotland. The story follows their investigation as they uncover a conspiracy involving abortion, religious extremism, and revenge.

The Crime:

American billionaire Phineas Montague is found shot dead on his estate near Loch Lomond. DI Tanner's team discovers links to a previous murder of property developer Steve Severini in Glasgow. Both men were killed by long-range gunshots. The investigation initially focuses on their employees and associates, including groundskeeper Angus Robertson and PA Taylor Gannon. Evidence emerges of financial transactions between Carla Severini (Steve's ex-wife) and Robertson, leading to their arrest.

Sub Plots:

1. Jade Tanner struggles with PTSD following her husband's death in a car accident, affecting her work and home life.
2. Petra McBride deals with a stalker related to a past case where her testimony led to a man's release from prison, who then committed murder.
3. DS Mo Uddin adjusts to his new role in Scotland after transferring from Birmingham.

Main characters:

1. DI Jade Tanner
2. Dr. Petra McBride
3. DS Mo Uddin
4. DC Patty Henderson
5. DC Stuart Burns
6. Angus Robertson
7. Taylor Gannon
8. Carla Severini

Relationship development:

• Jade and Petra: Develop a professional relationship with some tension as Jade adjusts to working with a psychologist.
• Jade and Mo: Build trust as Mo proves his competence in the new team.
• Mo and Stuart: Navigate their new working relationship as sergeant and constable.
• Jade and Fraser Murdo: Maintain a friendship with hints of potential romance.

Jade's husband's death:

• Jade experiences flashbacks and anxiety when driving on the A82 where her husband died.
• She struggles to balance work and caring for her son Rory.
• Jade makes progress in her grief by deciding to get a kitten for Rory.

Petra's past case:

• Petra receives threatening phone calls from someone related to her past testimony.
• She moves into her deceased aunt's flat in Glasgow, where she feels watched and unsafe.
• The novel does not resolve this subplot, leaving it open for potential future development.

DI Jade Tanner

Introduction:
DI Jade Tanner is a fictional detective inspector in the Scottish police force, created by author Rachel McLean. She serves as the protagonist in the novel Blood and Money and leads the Complex Crimes Unit.

Overview:
Tanner is a skilled detective who balances her demanding career with single parenthood. She struggles with PTSD following her husband's death but maintains a strong dedication to her work and son.

Background:
Jade Tanner worked in Glasgow CID before her promotion to DI. She lived with her husband Dan, an ornithologist, and their son Rory near Loch Lomond. Dan's death in a car accident on the A82 outside their home significantly impacted Tanner's life and career.

Role in this Story:
In Blood and Money, Tanner leads the investigation into the murders of Phineas Montague and Steve Severini. She manages a new team, including DS Mo Uddin and forensic psychologist Dr. Petra McBride, while dealing with her personal trauma. Tanner's intuition and leadership prove crucial in solving the complex case involving abortion, religious extremism, and revenge.

Basic details:

• Name: Jade Tanner
• Age: Early forties
• Place of Birth: Not specified
• Current Residence: Near Loch Lomond, Scotland
• Nationality: British (Scottish)
• Education Level: Police training (specific level not mentioned)
• Occupation: Detective Inspector, Complex Crimes Unit
• Income Level: Not specified
• Relationship Status: Widowed
• Car: Nondescript mid-range saloon in beige

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Short (specific height not given)
• Weight: Slim
• Build: Not specified
• Skin colour: Not specified
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Not specified
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: Suffers from PTSD

Dr. Petra McBride

Introduction:
Dr. Petra McBride is a fictional forensic psychologist created by author Rachel McLean. She appears as a main character in the novel Blood and Money and assists the Complex Crimes Unit in their investigations.

Overview:
McBride is an experienced forensic psychologist known for her analytical skills and ability to provide insights into criminal minds. She maintains a professional demeanor but struggles with personal relationships and a troubled past.

Background:
Petra McBride previously worked as an academic at Dundee University before losing her position in a restructure. She inherited a flat from her Aunt Lydia in Glasgow's West End. McBride's professional reputation suffered after her testimony led to the release of a man who subsequently committed murder.

Role in this Story:
In Blood and Money, McBride works with DI Jade Tanner's team to analyze the psychological aspects of the Montague and Severini murders. She provides crucial insights into the killers' motivations and helps the team understand the complex nature of the crimes.

Basic details:

• Name: Dr. Petra McBride
• Age: Early forties
• Place of Birth: Not specified (likely Scotland)
• Current Residence: Glasgow's West End, Scotland
• Nationality: British (Scottish)
• Education Level: Doctorate (presumably in Psychology)
• Occupation: Forensic Psychologist
• Income Level: Not specified
• Relationship Status: Single (has a different girlfriend in each book)
• Car: Does not own a car

Physical Attributes:

• Height: 4 feet 11 inches (without heels)
• Weight: Slightly overweight
• Build: Short and slightly overweight
• Skin colour: Not specified
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Dark brown (dyed)
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: None mentioned

Additional characteristics:

• Always wears four-inch stiletto heels
• Wears her hair in an updo, piled on top of her head
• Described as a "force of nature" with a vulnerable side

DS Mo Uddin

Introduction:
DS Mo Uddin is a fictional detective sergeant created by author Rachel McLean. He appears as a main character in the novel Blood and Money as part of DI Jade Tanner's Complex Crimes Unit.

Overview:
Uddin is an experienced and competent detective who recently transferred from the West Midlands force to Police Scotland. He brings a calm and clear-headed approach to investigations and often helps his colleagues see the bigger picture.

Background:
Mo Uddin worked for the West Midlands force for several years before moving to Scotland. He transferred to be closer to his wife Catriona's family. Uddin previously worked under DI Zoe Finch, who was his best friend, and has experience with complex cases including organized crime.

Role in this Story:
In Blood and Money, Uddin serves as DI Tanner's right-hand man in the investigation of the Montague and Severini murders. He conducts interviews, analyzes evidence, and plays a crucial role in apprehending the suspects. Uddin also helps manage the team dynamics, particularly in guiding DC Stuart Burns.

Basic details:

• Name: Mo Uddin
• Age: Not specified (likely mid-30s to early 40s)
• Place of Birth: Not specified (likely West Midlands, England)
• Current Residence: Stirling, Scotland
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Police training (specific level not mentioned)
• Occupation: Detective Sergeant, Complex Crimes Unit
• Income Level: Not specified
• Relationship Status: Married to Catriona (a GP)
• Car: Drives a pool car for work

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Not specified
• Weight: Not specified
• Build: Not specified
• Skin colour: Brown (described as a person "with brown skin")
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Not specified
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: None mentioned

Additional characteristics:

• Has two daughters
• Described as calm and clear-headed
• Muslim, but occasionally drinks alcohol
• Best friends with his former boss, DI Zoe Finch

DC Patty Henderson

Introduction:
DC Patty Henderson is a fictional detective constable created by author Rachel McLean. She appears as a supporting character in the novel Blood and Money as part of DI Jade Tanner's Complex Crimes Unit.

Overview:
Henderson is a seasoned detective constable in her fifties, known for her brusque and maternal nature. She demonstrates strong loyalty to DI Tanner and brings years of experience to the team.

Background:
Patty Henderson has worked with DI Jade Tanner for over fifteen years, starting in Glasgow CID. She watched Tanner advance in rank and overtake her, maintaining a supportive and protective attitude towards her superior. Henderson has chosen to remain at the rank of constable throughout her career.

Role in this Story:
In Blood and Money, Henderson provides crucial support to the investigation. She conducts background research, analyzes documents, and assists in piecing together the complex web of relationships surrounding the Montague and Severini murders. Her experience and attention to detail prove invaluable to the team.

Basic details:

• Name: Patty Henderson
• Age: Fifties
• Place of Birth: Not specified (likely Scotland)
• Current Residence: Not specified (likely Glasgow area)
• Nationality: British (Scottish)
• Education Level: Police training (specific level not mentioned)
• Occupation: Detective Constable, Complex Crimes Unit
• Income Level: Top of her pay band for a DC
• Relationship Status: Not specified
• Car: Not specified

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Not specified
• Weight: Not specified
• Build: Not specified
• Skin colour: Not specified
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Grey-brown
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: None mentioned

Additional characteristics:

• Described as brusque and maternal
• Competent and hardworking
• Values work-life balance
• Maternal feelings towards DI Tanner
• Concerned about Tanner's PTSD and well-being

DC Stuart Burns

Introduction:
DC Stuart Burns is a fictional detective constable created by author Rachel McLean. He appears as a supporting character in the novel Blood and Money as part of DI Jade Tanner's Complex Crimes Unit.

Overview:
Burns is a young, ambitious detective constable who recently joined CID. He displays intelligence and eagerness to progress in his career, sometimes coming across as cocky or overconfident.

Background:
Stuart Burns worked as a uniformed police officer for seven years before joining CID eight months prior to the events of Blood and Money. He previously worked in Lothian before transferring to the Complex Crimes Unit.

Role in this Story:
In Blood and Money, Burns contributes to the investigation with his technological skills and initiative. He discovers crucial evidence linking suspects in the Montague and Severini murders. Burns also faces dangerous situations, including a confrontation with a suspect at a boathouse.

Basic details:

• Name: Stuart Burns
• Age: Late twenties to early thirties (exact age not specified)
• Place of Birth: Not specified (likely Scotland)
• Current Residence: Not specified (likely Glasgow area)
• Nationality: British (Scottish)
• Education Level: Police training, joined force after Highers
• Occupation: Detective Constable, Complex Crimes Unit
• Income Level: Not specified
• Relationship Status: Not specified
• Car: Not specified

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Mid-height
• Weight: Thin
• Build: Lean with prominent arm muscles
• Skin colour: Not specified (likely white)
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Black
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: Mole on right cheek
• Physical ailments: None mentioned

Additional characteristics:

• Described as young and sometimes cocky
• Intelligent and good at spotting gaps in evidence
• Ambitious and expects to progress quickly in his career
• Skilled with technology and databases
• Needs to develop interviewing skills
• Reads society columns, believing it will help his career

Angus Robertson

Introduction:
Angus Robertson appears as a key figure in the novel Blood and Money as the groundskeeper of Phineas Montague's estate.

Overview:
Robertson presents himself as a competent and somewhat disgruntled employee of Phineas Montague. He maintains the grounds of Montague's Scottish estate and possesses extensive knowledge of firearms.

Background:
Robertson previously worked for the Forestry Commission on the Cowal Peninsula. He began working for Montague when the billionaire purchased the estate six months prior to the events of the novel. Robertson is married to Maria Watson, Steve Severini's former assistant.

Role in this Story:
In Blood and Money, Robertson initially appears as a potential witness but becomes a prime suspect in the murders of Phineas Montague and Steve Severini. He plays a crucial role in the plot as investigators uncover his connections to both victims and his involvement in a fundamentalist religious group opposed to abortion.

Basic details:

• Name: Angus Robertson
• Age: Approximately 30 years old
• Place of Birth: Not specified (likely Scotland)
• Current Residence: Cabin on Montague's estate near Loch Lomond, Scotland
• Nationality: British (Scottish)
• Education Level: Not specified
• Occupation: Groundskeeper
• Income Level: Not specified
• Relationship Status: Married to Maria Watson
• Car: Not specified

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Not specified
• Weight: Not specified
• Build: Not specified
• Skin colour: Not specified (likely white)
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Not specified
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: None mentioned

Additional characteristics:

• Skilled with firearms and hunting equipment
• Knowledgeable about the estate's grounds and wildlife
• Presents a calm and sometimes defiant demeanor when questioned
• Belongs to a fundamentalist religious group
• Proficient in operating boats

Taylor Gannon

Introduction:
Taylor Gannon is a fictional character created by author Rachel McLean. She appears as a significant figure in the novel Blood and Money as Phineas Montague's personal assistant.

Overview:
Gannon serves as Phineas Montague's highly efficient and loyal personal assistant. She manages his professional and personal affairs, acting as a gatekeeper between Montague and the outside world.

Background:
Taylor Gannon worked for Phineas Montague for over seven years. She signed a non-disclosure agreement six months prior to the events of the novel, suggesting her involvement in sensitive matters. Gannon traveled extensively with Montague and managed his various residences and business interests.

Role in this Story:
In Blood and Money, Gannon initially appears as a potential witness but becomes a key suspect in the murders of Phineas Montague and Steve Severini. She plays a crucial role in the plot as investigators uncover her involvement in arranging abortions for Montague and her connection to a fundamentalist religious group opposed to abortion.

Basic details:

• Name: Taylor Gannon
• Age: Late twenties to early thirties (exact age not specified)
• Place of Birth: Not specified (likely United States)
• Current Residence: Travels frequently, stays at Montague's properties
• Nationality: American
• Education Level: Not specified
• Occupation: Personal Assistant to Phineas Montague
• Income Level: High (exact amount not specified)
• Relationship Status: Single
• Car: Not specified

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Short
• Weight: Slim
• Build: Athletic
• Skin colour: Caramel tan
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Blonde (natural-looking waves)
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: None mentioned

Additional characteristics:

• Described as young and pretty
• Wears heavy mascara
• Speaks with an American accent
• Highly efficient and organized
• Manages complex logistics for Montague's travel and business
• Involved in arranging sensitive personal matters for Montague
• Belongs to a fundamentalist religious group

Carla Severini

Introduction:
Carla Severini appears as a significant figure in Blood and Money as the estranged wife of murdered property developer Steve Severini.

Overview:
Severini presents a complex persona as a grieving widow who was in the process of divorcing her husband before his death. She maintains a carefully curated image and home life while harboring potential motives for her husband's murder.

Background:
Carla Severini lived in an expensive house in Glasgow's Newlands Park with her husband Steve and their daughter Viola. She filed for divorce from Steve Severini, citing unreasonable behavior. Carla is the sister of Emily Fogarty, who was engaged to Phineas Montague before committing suicide.

Role in this Story:
In Blood and Money, Severini becomes a person of interest in the investigation of her husband's murder. Her financial transactions with Angus Robertson raise suspicion, and her connection to Phineas Montague through her sister adds complexity to the case. Severini's carefully maintained facade and evasive responses to questioning contribute to the mystery surrounding the murders.

Basic details:

• Name: Carla Severini
• Age: Late thirties to early forties (exact age not specified)
• Place of Birth: Not specified (likely South London based on accent)
• Current Residence: Glasgow, Scotland
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Not specified
• Occupation: Not specified
• Income Level: High (exact amount not specified)
• Relationship Status: Widowed, was in the process of divorcing
• Car: Not specified

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Not specified
• Weight: Not specified
• Build: Not specified
• Skin colour: Not specified
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Not specified
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: None mentioned

Additional characteristics:

• Speaks with a Home Counties accent that reverts to South London when stressed
• Lives in an expensive, well-decorated house
• Maintains a carefully curated public image
• Displays complex emotions regarding her late husband
• Mother to a daughter named Viola
• Sister to Emily Fogarty, Phineas Montague's former fiancée
• Demonstrates composure and evasiveness during police questioning