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Wiki - McBride and Tanner Book 2 - Death and Poetry

Plot:

Death and Poetry is a crime novel that follows DI Jade Tanner and forensic psychologist Dr. Petra McBride as they investigate a series of murders connected to Shakespeare's play Macbeth. The Complex Crimes Unit (CCU) works to solve the killings while facing internal police politics and personal challenges.

The Crime:

The novel centers on two murders. The first victim, Harry Nolan, is found dead on Dunsinane Hill with pine needles from Birnam Wood in his pockets, referencing Macbeth. The second victim, Callum Ferguson, is discovered in Inverness Castle with "Out, damned spot" written in blood nearby. The CCU initially suspects Frank Drummond, a member of the Perth Macbeth Society, but later focuses on Professor Anthony Urquhart, a Shakespeare expert. Urquhart attempts to kill Adam Drummond, Frank's son, at the Tramway Theatre before being apprehended.

Sub Plots:

  1. The CCU faces potential disbandment, prompting Jade to prove the unit's worth through this case.
  2. Petra struggles with anonymous phone calls and a potential accusation of perjury related to a past case.
  3. Jade begins to move on from her husband's death, considering a new relationship with her boss, Fraser Murdo.

Main characters:

  1. DI Jade Tanner
  2. Dr. Petra McBride
  3. DS Mohammed Uddin (Mo)
  4. DC Patty Henderson
  5. DC Stuart Burns
  6. Detective Superintendent Fraser Murdo
  7. Professor Anthony Urquhart
  8. Frank Drummond

Relationship development:

  • Jade and Fraser: Progress from a professional relationship to a potential romantic one, agreeing to a lunch date.
  • Petra and Aila: Develop their relationship, with Aila agreeing to prioritize Petra over her cat.
  • Jade and Mo: Strengthen their working relationship and trust throughout the investigation.
  • Petra and Jade: Build a stronger professional bond as they work together on the case.

Jade's husband's death:

  • Jade continues to grieve for her late husband, Dan.
  • She struggles with driving on the A82 where Dan died.
  • Jade balances her work with caring for her young son, Rory.
  • She begins to consider moving on romantically, accepting a lunch date with Fraser.

Petra's past case:

  • Petra receives anonymous phone calls related to a past case.
  • She faces a potential accusation of perjury in a newspaper article.
  • The parents of a victim from the past case appear to be stalking Petra.
  • Petra receives threatening photographs, indicating someone is watching her.

DI Jade Tanner:

Introduction:
Detective Inspector Jade Tanner is a fictional character in the McBride & Tanner crime novel series. She serves as the lead investigator for Police Scotland's Complex Crimes Unit (CCU).

Overview:
Tanner is a dedicated and skilled detective who balances her demanding career with single parenthood. She demonstrates strong leadership skills and a keen investigative mind, often working closely with forensic psychologist Dr. Petra McBride to solve complex cases.

Background:
Jade Tanner joined Police Scotland and rose through the ranks to become a Detective Inspector. She experienced personal tragedy when her husband, Dan, died in a car accident on the A82 near their home on the banks of Loch Lomond. Tanner continues to live in the family home with her young son, Rory, despite the painful memories associated with the location.

Role in this Story:
In the novel, Tanner leads the CCU's investigation into two murders connected to Shakespeare's play Macbeth. She coordinates with local police forces, manages her team, and works closely with Dr. McBride to uncover the killer's identity. Tanner also grapples with the potential disbandment of her unit, striving to prove its worth through the successful resolution of the case.

Basic details and Physical Attributes:

  • Name: Jade Tanner
  • Age: Early forties
  • Place of Birth: Unknown
  • Current Residence: Banks of Loch Lomond, Scotland
  • Nationality: British (Scottish)
  • Education Level: Police training, likely university educated
  • Occupation: Detective Inspector, Police Scotland
  • Income Level: Middle-class
  • Relationship Status: Widowed
  • Car: Not specified
  • 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: Suffers from PTSD related to her husband's death

Dr. Petra McBride:

Introduction:
Dr. Petra McBride is a fictional character in the McBride & Tanner crime novel series. She works as a forensic psychologist, often collaborating with Police Scotland's Complex Crimes Unit (CCU) in Death and Poetry.

Overview:
McBride is an experienced and insightful forensic psychologist who provides crucial analysis in criminal investigations. She possesses a keen understanding of criminal psychology and often offers unique perspectives that help solve complex cases.

Background:
Petra McBride previously worked as an academic at Dundee University but lost her position in a restructure. She now works as a consultant for various police forces, including Police Scotland. McBride inherited a flat in Glasgow's West End from her Aunt Lydia, where she currently resides. She has a history of short-lived relationships and struggles to maintain long-term romantic partnerships.

Role in this Story:
In the novel, McBride assists the CCU in investigating two Macbeth-themed murders. She provides psychological profiles of the killer, analyzes crime scenes, and consults with Macbeth expert Professor Anthony Urquhart. McBride's insights prove crucial in identifying the perpetrator, though her methods sometimes skirt legal boundaries.

Basic details and Physical Attributes:

  • Name: Dr. Petra McBride
  • Age: 53
  • Place of Birth: Unknown
  • Current Residence: Glasgow's West End, Scotland
  • Nationality: British (Scottish)
  • Education Level: Doctorate (presumably in Psychology)
  • Occupation: Forensic Psychologist, Consultant
  • Income Level: Presumably upper-middle-class
  • Relationship Status: In a relationship with Aila
  • Car: Not specified
  • Height: 4 feet 10 inches (1.47 m)
  • Weight: Described as "slightly overweight"
  • Build: Short, 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: Suffers from allergies, particularly to cats

Additional details:

  • Always wears four-inch stiletto heels
  • Wears her hair in an updo, piled on top of her head
  • Described as feisty and sometimes difficult
  • Struggles with professional credibility concerns
  • Has a vulnerable side, particularly regarding relationships

DS Mohammed Uddin (Mo):

Introduction:
Detective Sergeant Mohammed Uddin, commonly known as Mo, is a fictional character in the McBride & Tanner crime novel series. He serves as a key member of Police Scotland's Complex Crimes Unit (CCU) in Death and Poetry.

Overview:
Mo is an experienced and dependable detective who provides valuable support to DI Jade Tanner. He demonstrates a calm and clear-headed approach to investigations, often helping Tanner to see the bigger picture in complex cases.

Background:
Mo moved from the West Midlands police force to Police Scotland two years prior to the events of the novel. He initially struggled to settle into the Scottish force but has since become an integral part of the CCU team. Mo lives in Stirling with his wife Catriona, a GP, and their two daughters.

Role in this Story:
In the novel, Mo plays a crucial role in the investigation of the Macbeth-themed murders. He conducts interviews, follows leads, and provides support to DI Tanner throughout the case. Mo's calm demeanor and investigative skills prove invaluable, particularly during the climactic scene at the Tramway Theatre.

Basic details and Physical Attributes:

  • Name: Mohammed Uddin
  • Age: In his forties
  • Place of Birth: Likely West Midlands, England
  • Current Residence: Stirling, Scotland
  • Nationality: British
  • Education Level: Police training, likely university educated
  • Occupation: Detective Sergeant, Police Scotland
  • Income Level: Middle-class
  • Relationship Status: Married to Catriona
  • Car: Not specified
  • Height: Not specified
  • Weight: Not specified
  • Build: Not specified
  • Skin colour: Not specified, likely of South Asian descent
  • Eye colour: Not specified
  • Hair colour: Not specified
  • Face shape: Not specified
  • Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
  • Physical ailments: None mentioned

Additional details:

  • Described as calm and clear-headed
  • Has two daughters
  • Best friends with DI Zoe Finch from his time in the West Midlands
  • Speaks with a West Midlands accent
  • Balances work commitments with family life
  • Demonstrates a strong work ethic and dedication to his job

DC Patty Henderson:

Introduction:
Detective Constable Patty Henderson is a fictional character in the McBride & Tanner crime novel series. She serves as a member of Police Scotland's Complex Crimes Unit (CCU) in Death and Poetry.

Overview:
Patty is an experienced and maternal detective who brings a wealth of knowledge to the CCU. She demonstrates a strong work ethic and a caring attitude towards her colleagues, particularly DI Jade Tanner.

Background:
Patty has worked with Jade Tanner for many years, initially reporting to her when they both worked in Glasgow CID. She has watched Jade advance in rank and overtake her, maintaining a supportive and maternal attitude towards her superior. Patty values work-life balance and often provides a grounding influence within the team.

Role in this Story:
In the novel, Patty plays a crucial support role in the investigation of the Macbeth-themed murders. She conducts research, manages communications with other police units, and provides valuable insights during team discussions. Patty's experience and steady presence help maintain team cohesion throughout the challenging case.

Basic details and Physical Attributes:

  • Name: Patty Henderson
  • Age: In her fifties
  • Place of Birth: Likely Scotland
  • Current Residence: Glasgow area (presumed)
  • Nationality: British (Scottish)
  • Education Level: Police training, specific level not mentioned
  • Occupation: Detective Constable, Police Scotland
  • Income Level: Middle-class
  • Relationship Status: Not specified
  • Car: Not specified
  • 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 details:

  • Described as brusque and maternal
  • Demonstrates strong concern for Jade's well-being
  • Balances professionalism with a caring attitude
  • Competent and hardworking
  • Values work-life balance
  • Has a long-standing working relationship with Jade Tanner
  • Provides a stabilizing influence within the CCU team

DC Stuart Burns:

Introduction:
Detective Constable Stuart Burns is a fictional character in the McBride & Tanner crime novel series. He serves as a junior member of Police Scotland's Complex Crimes Unit (CCU) in Death and Poetry.

Overview:
Stuart is a young, ambitious detective who brings intelligence and enthusiasm to the CCU. He demonstrates a keen eye for detail and a strong desire to advance in his career, sometimes coming across as cocky but ultimately proving himself as a valuable team member.

Background:
Stuart joined the CCU as a relatively new detective. He has a university education and expects to progress quickly in his career, partly due to his intelligence and partly due to his privileged background as a young white man. Despite his occasional overconfidence, Stuart shows a willingness to learn and improve his skills, particularly in interviewing members of the public.

Role in this Story:
In the novel, Stuart plays an active role in the investigation of the Macbeth-themed murders. He conducts interviews, performs research, and assists in crucial moments of the case. Stuart's ability to spot gaps in evidence and identify important details proves valuable to the team, particularly during the climactic scenes at the Tramway Theatre.

Basic details and Physical Attributes:

  • Name: Stuart Burns
  • Age: Young (likely late 20s or early 30s)
  • Place of Birth: Likely Scotland
  • Current Residence: Glasgow area (presumed)
  • Nationality: British (Scottish)
  • Education Level: University educated
  • Occupation: Detective Constable, Police Scotland
  • Income Level: Middle-class
  • Relationship Status: Not specified
  • Car: Not specified
  • Height: Short
  • Weight: Not specified
  • Build: Not specified
  • Skin colour: Not specified, likely white
  • Eye colour: Not specified
  • Hair colour: Not specified
  • Face shape: Square
  • Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
  • Physical ailments: None mentioned

Additional details:

  • Described as intelligent and ambitious
  • Sometimes comes across as cocky or overconfident
  • Shows a strong desire to advance in his career
  • Demonstrates skill in spotting gaps in evidence
  • Improving his skills in interviewing the public
  • Runs regularly, indicating he maintains physical fitness
  • Wears a flat cap, which he describes as "very hunting and shooting"

Detective Superintendent Fraser Murdo:

Introduction:
Detective Superintendent Fraser Murdo is a fictional character in the McBride & Tanner crime novel series. He serves as the superior officer overseeing Police Scotland's Complex Crimes Unit (CCU) in Death and Poetry.

Overview:
Fraser is a professional and supportive leader who maintains a delicate balance between his official duties and his personal connections within the force. He demonstrates a strong commitment to his team while navigating the complex politics of Police Scotland.

Background:
Fraser has a long-standing friendship with DI Jade Tanner, dating back to their university days in Dundee. He was also close friends with Jade's late husband, Dan. Fraser's history with the Tanner family adds complexity to his professional relationship with Jade, as he tries to support her both personally and professionally.

Role in this Story:
In the novel, Fraser plays a crucial role in supporting the CCU's investigation while managing internal police politics. He works to protect the unit from potential disbandment, recognizing their value in solving complex cases. Fraser also begins to explore the possibility of a romantic relationship with Jade, culminating in asking her on a date.

Basic details and Physical Attributes:

  • Name: Fraser Murdo
  • Age: Likely mid to late 40s
  • Place of Birth: Likely Scotland
  • Current Residence: Not specified, presumably in or near Glasgow
  • Nationality: British (Scottish)
  • Education Level: University educated (attended University of Dundee)
  • Occupation: Detective Superintendent, Police Scotland
  • Income Level: Upper middle-class
  • Relationship Status: Single
  • Car: Not specified
  • 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 details:

  • Demonstrates a supportive and professional demeanor
  • Maintains a long-standing friendship with Jade Tanner
  • Navigates complex internal police politics
  • Shows concern for Jade's well-being and career
  • Prefers to spend time with his subordinates in their work environments rather than behind a desk
  • Balances personal connections with professional responsibilities
  • Begins to explore romantic feelings for Jade towards the end of the novel

Professor Anthony Urquhart:

Introduction:
Professor Anthony Urquhart is a fictional character in the McBride & Tanner crime novel series. He serves as an English professor and Macbeth expert at the University of Dundee in Death and Poetry.

Overview:
Urquhart is an esteemed academic with a deep knowledge of Shakespeare's works, particularly Macbeth. He presents himself as helpful and enthusiastic, but harbors a darker side that ultimately leads to criminal actions.

Background:
Urquhart has established himself as one of Scotland's foremost experts on Macbeth. He has worked at the University of Dundee for many years, building a reputation in academic circles. Urquhart has participated in events with the Perth Macbeth Society and conducted research trips related to locations in Shakespeare's plays.

Role in this Story:
In the novel, Urquhart initially appears as a helpful consultant to Dr. Petra McBride and the police investigation. However, he emerges as the primary antagonist, responsible for the Macbeth-themed murders. Urquhart stages elaborate crime scenes based on the play, demonstrating both his expertise and his descent into criminal behavior. The story culminates in his attempted murder of Adam Drummond at the Tramway Theatre, where police apprehend him.

Basic details and Physical Attributes:

  • Name: Anthony Urquhart
  • Age: Likely in his 50s or 60s
  • Place of Birth: Likely Scotland (speaks with an Edinburgh accent)
  • Current Residence: Dundee, Scotland
  • Nationality: British (Scottish)
  • Education Level: PhD (presumed)
  • Occupation: English Professor, University of Dundee
  • Income Level: Upper middle-class
  • Relationship Status: Not specified
  • Car: Jaguar XJS (28 years old)
  • Height: Not specified
  • Weight: Not specified
  • Build: Not specified
  • Skin colour: Not specified
  • Eye colour: Not specified
  • Hair colour: Grey
  • Face shape: Not specified
  • Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
  • Physical ailments: None mentioned

Additional details:

  • Expert on Shakespeare's works, particularly Macbeth
  • Presents himself as helpful and enthusiastic
  • Demonstrates a keen interest in crime scenes and investigation details
  • Owns multiple editions of Macbeth, including valuable ones
  • Conducts research trips to locations featured in Shakespeare's plays
  • Faces redundancy from the university, which may have contributed to his actions
  • Shows a manipulative and dangerous side beneath his academic facade

Frank Drummond:

Introduction:
Frank Drummond is a fictional character in the McBride & Tanner crime novel series. He serves as a member of the Perth Macbeth Society and becomes a person of interest in the murder investigation in Death and Poetry.

Overview:
Drummond is a complex character with a troubled past and questionable behavior. His involvement with the Macbeth Society and his personal life intersect with the main plot, making him a key figure in the investigation.

Background:
Frank Drummond is divorced from Gail Dawes, with whom he has two teenage sons, including Adam. His relationship with his family is strained, and he has limited contact with his children. Drummond lives in Dunkeld and actively participates in the Perth Macbeth Society.

Role in this Story:
In the novel, Drummond initially appears as a prime suspect in the Macbeth-themed murders due to his connection to the victims and his suspicious behavior. He becomes the subject of a separate investigation when police discover a wall of photographs in his spare bedroom, depicting young men taken without their knowledge. While not the murderer, Drummond's actions and disappearance complicate the main investigation and lead to his arrest on stalking charges.

Basic details and Physical Attributes:

  • Name: Frank Drummond
  • Age: Likely in his 40s
  • Place of Birth: Not specified, likely Scotland
  • Current Residence: Dunkeld, Scotland
  • Nationality: British (Scottish)
  • Education Level: Not specified
  • Occupation: Not specified
  • Income Level: Likely middle-class
  • Relationship Status: Divorced
  • Car: Not specified
  • Height: Not specified
  • Weight: Not specified
  • Build: Not specified
  • Skin colour: Not specified
  • Eye colour: Not specified
  • Hair colour: Blond
  • Face shape: Not specified, described as having "heavy features"
  • Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
  • Physical ailments: None mentioned

Additional details:

  • Active member of the Perth Macbeth Society
  • Described as unremarkable in appearance
  • Has a strained relationship with his ex-wife and children
  • Possesses a spare room with walls covered in photographs of young men
  • Demonstrates obsessive behavior
  • Reports his son Adam missing, leading to his interaction with the police
  • Arrested on stalking charges related to the photographs in his home