Plot:

Power and Treachery is a crime novel that follows DI Jade Tanner and her Complex Crimes Unit as they investigate a series of suspicious deaths at a G7 summit in Scotland. The deaths initially appear to be from natural causes, but Tanner and her team uncover a complex revenge plot orchestrated by Douglas McLeish and his twin brother Hamish, seeking vengeance for their father's death years earlier.

The Crime:

The novel centers on the deaths of three high-profile individuals at a G7 summit: Brendan Peters (US Chief of Staff), Jason Barrowman (UK Minister for International Development), and Pierre Leroux (French aide). Initially ruled as natural causes or accidents, the investigation reveals they were poisoned with ethylene glycol. The team discovers a connection between the victims through their past involvement with the Peace Alliance NGO. A fourth victim, Janine Arroz, dies in Paris, and a fifth, Davina Wilson, collapses in Washington D.C. The investigation leads to Douglas McLeish, whose father died in a landmine incident involving the original three victims in Bosnia in 2002.

Sub Plots:

1. Jade Tanner's developing relationship with her superior, Fraser Murdo, creates tension within the team and complicates the investigation.
2. Dr. Petra McBride, a forensic psychologist, grapples with a past case that haunts her professionally and personally, affecting her current work and relationship.
3. DC Stuart Burns struggles with his friendship with the suspect, Douglas McLeish, and the realization that his friend is a murderer.

Main characters:

1. DI Jade Tanner
2. DS Mo Uddin
3. Dr. Petra McBride
4. DC Stuart Burns
5. DC Patty Henderson
6. DSU Fraser Murdo
7. Douglas McLeish
8. Antonia Jacobs

Relationship development:

• Jade Tanner and Fraser Murdo: Begin a romantic relationship, causing tension within the team.
• Jade Tanner and Mo Uddin: Their professional relationship is tested by Jade's secret involvement with Fraser.
• Petra McBride and Aila: Their relationship becomes strained due to Petra's refusal to seek help for her past trauma.
• Stuart Burns and Douglas McLeish: Their friendship is shattered when Stuart discovers Douglas is the killer.

Jade's husband's death:

Jade's husband, Dan, died in a car accident on the A82 outside their home three years prior to the events of the novel. Jade still lives in the same house and struggles with driving past the accident site. Her grief affects her ability to form new relationships, including her developing feelings for Fraser Murdo.

Petra's past case:

Petra provided evidence that led to the release of a man who subsequently killed a fifteen-year-old boy. The boy's parents now stalk Petra and attempt to ruin her career. This past case affects Petra's confidence in her work and her personal relationships, particularly with her girlfriend Aila, who urges Petra to seek professional help.

DI Jade Tanner:

Introduction:
DI Jade Tanner is a fictional character in the McBride & Tanner crime novel series. She serves as the protagonist and lead detective in the Complex Crimes Unit of Police Scotland in Power and Treachery.

Overview:
Tanner is known for her tenacity and skill in solving complex criminal cases. She balances her demanding career with single parenthood, having lost her husband in a tragic accident. Her professional life often intersects with her personal struggles, particularly her grief and developing romantic relationship with her superior officer.

Background:
Jade Tanner joined the police force in her early twenties and quickly rose through the ranks. She married Dan Tanner, an ornithologist, and they had a son, Rory. Three years before the events of the main story, Dan died in a car accident outside their home on Loch Lomond. Tanner continues to live in the same house, despite the painful memories, to maintain stability for her son.

Role in this Story:
In the novel, Tanner leads the investigation into a series of suspicious deaths at a G7 summit. She navigates political pressure, personal relationships, and complex evidence to uncover a revenge plot orchestrated by Douglas McLeish. Throughout the investigation, Tanner grapples with her growing feelings for her superior, DSU Fraser Murdo, and the impact of her work on her relationship with her son.

Quick Descriptors:

Basic details:

• Name: Jade Tanner
• Age: Early forties
• Place of Birth: Unknown
• Current Residence: Banks of Loch Lomond, Scotland
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Police training, likely university degree
• Occupation: Detective Inspector, Complex Crimes Unit
• Income Level: Middle class
• Relationship Status: Widowed, developing relationship with Fraser Murdo
• Car: Unspecified police vehicle

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: Suffers from PTSD related to her husband's death

DS Mo Uddin:

Introduction:
DS Mo Uddin is a fictional character in the McBride & Tanner crime novel series. He serves as a Detective Sergeant in the Complex Crimes Unit of Police Scotland, working closely with DI Jade Tanner.

Overview:
Uddin is known for his calm demeanor and analytical skills. He provides a steady presence within the team, often helping to ground his colleagues and offer a clear perspective on cases. His background in the West Midlands police force brings a unique viewpoint to the Scottish unit.

Background:
Mo Uddin previously worked for the West Midlands police force in Birmingham, England. He moved to Scotland two years prior to the main events of the story, joining the Complex Crimes Unit. Uddin is married to Catriona, a GP, and they have two daughters. They live in Stirling, where Uddin has settled into Scottish life despite occasionally missing his former home.

Role in this Story:
In the novel, Uddin plays a crucial role in the investigation of the G7 summit deaths. He conducts interviews, analyzes forensic evidence, and provides support to DI Tanner throughout the case. Uddin also serves as a confidant to Tanner, navigating the complexities of her developing relationship with their superior, DSU Fraser Murdo.

Quick Descriptors:

Basic details:

• Name: Mo Uddin
• Age: Late thirties to early forties (estimated)
• Place of Birth: Likely Birmingham or surrounding area
• Current Residence: Stirling, Scotland
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Police training, likely university degree
• Occupation: Detective Sergeant, Complex Crimes Unit
• Income Level: Middle class
• Relationship Status: Married to Catriona
• Car: Unspecified personal vehicle

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Not specified
• Weight: Not specified
• Build: Not specified
• Skin colour: Likely brown (given his name suggests South Asian heritage)
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Not specified
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: None mentioned, but experiences fatigue from long commute

Dr. Petra McBride:

Introduction:
Dr. Petra McBride is a fictional character in the McBride & Tanner crime novel series. She works as a forensic psychologist, frequently collaborating with the Complex Crimes Unit of Police Scotland in Power and Treachery.

Overview:
McBride is an experienced and insightful forensic psychologist known for her ability to analyze criminal minds and provide valuable insights to police investigations. She possesses a feisty and sometimes difficult personality, coupled with a vulnerable side concerning her professional credibility and personal relationships.

Background:
Petra McBride previously worked as an academic at Dundee University before losing her position in a restructure. She has since worked as a consultant for various police forces, including international cases. McBride inherited a flat in Glasgow's West End from her Aunt Lydia, where she currently resides. She struggles with maintaining long-term relationships and has a history of short-lived romantic partnerships.

Role in this Story:
In the novel, McBride assists the Complex Crimes Unit in profiling the killer responsible for the G7 summit deaths. She provides crucial insights into the killer's motivations and helps narrow down suspects. Throughout the investigation, McBride grapples with her own past trauma related to a previous case and its impact on her current work and personal life.

Quick Descriptors:

Basic details:

• Name: Dr. Petra McBride
• Age: 54
• Place of Birth: Likely Scotland (unspecified)
• Current Residence: Glasgow's West End, Scotland
• Nationality: British (Scottish)
• Education Level: Doctorate in Psychology
• Occupation: Forensic Psychologist, Consultant
• Income Level: Middle class, but financially insecure due to inconsistent work
• Relationship Status: In a relationship with Aila
• Car: Does not own a car

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Short (described as 4'10")
• Weight: Slightly overweight
• Build: Petite but curvy
• Skin colour: Not specified, likely fair
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Dark brown (dyed)
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: None mentioned
• Other features: Always wears four-inch stiletto heels and wears her hair in an updo

DC Stuart Burns:

Introduction:
DC Stuart Burns is a fictional character in the McBride & Tanner crime novel series. He serves as a Detective Constable in the Complex Crimes Unit of Police Scotland, working under DI Jade Tanner in Power and Treachery.

Overview:
Burns is a young and ambitious detective known for his intelligence and keen eye for detail. He possesses a slightly cocky demeanor, which can sometimes irritate his colleagues. Despite this, his skills in identifying gaps in evidence and his improving abilities in public interviews make him a valuable asset to the team.

Background:
Stuart Burns joined the Complex Crimes Unit as a Detective Constable, likely straight out of university or police training. He maintains connections from his university days, including a friendship with Douglas McLeish, which becomes significant in the main story. Burns harbors ambitions to climb the ranks quickly in his police career.

Role in this Story:
In the novel, Burns plays a crucial role in the investigation of the G7 summit deaths. His friendship with Douglas McLeish provides the team with insider information, though it also places him in a difficult position when McLeish becomes a suspect. Burns struggles with the realization that his friend may be a murderer and grapples with the ethical implications of using their friendship to further the investigation.

Quick Descriptors:

Basic details:

• Name: Stuart Burns
• Age: Late twenties to early thirties (estimated)
• Place of Birth: Likely Scotland (unspecified)
• Current Residence: Glasgow area (presumed)
• Nationality: British (Scottish)
• Education Level: University degree (implied)
• Occupation: Detective Constable, Complex Crimes Unit
• Income Level: Lower to middle class
• Relationship Status: Single (presumed)
• Car: Not specified

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Not specified
• Weight: Not specified
• Build: Not specified
• Skin colour: Not specified, likely fair
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Not specified
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: Mentions being "bunged up" at one point, suggesting a minor cold or allergy

DC Patty Henderson:

Introduction:
DC Patty Henderson is a fictional character in the McBride & Tanner crime novel series. She serves as a Detective Constable in the Complex Crimes Unit of Police Scotland, working under DI Jade Tanner.

Overview:
Henderson is an experienced and competent detective known for her brusque yet maternal demeanor. She possesses a strong work ethic and maintains a good work-life balance. Her skills in research and data analysis make her an invaluable member of the team.

Background:
Patty Henderson has been in the police force for many years, having worked with Jade Tanner when they were both in Glasgow CID. She has watched Tanner advance in rank and overtake her, but harbors no jealousy. Instead, she maintains a protective, maternal attitude towards her superior. Henderson values her experience and practical approach to police work.

Role in this Story:
In the novel, Henderson plays a crucial role in the investigation of the G7 summit deaths. She excels at conducting background research on suspects and victims, often uncovering vital information that moves the case forward. Her ability to navigate online resources and databases proves instrumental in connecting the dots between the victims and the McLeish brothers.

Quick Descriptors:

Basic details:

• Name: Patty Henderson
• Age: Mid-fifties
• Place of Birth: Likely Scotland (unspecified)
• Current Residence: Glasgow area (presumed)
• Nationality: British (Scottish)
• Education Level: Police training, possibly university degree
• Occupation: Detective Constable, Complex Crimes Unit
• Income Level: Middle class
• Relationship Status: Not specified
• Car: Not specified

Physical Attributes:

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

DSU Fraser Murdo:

Introduction:
DSU Fraser Murdo is a fictional character in the McBride & Tanner crime novel series. He serves as the Detective Superintendent overseeing the Complex Crimes Unit of Police Scotland in Power and Treachery.

Overview:
Murdo is a professional and supportive superior officer who maintains a long-standing friendship with DI Jade Tanner. He balances his responsibilities as a senior police official with his personal connections to his team, particularly Tanner. Murdo navigates the complex political landscape of high-profile investigations while supporting his team's efforts.

Background:
Fraser Murdo has known Jade Tanner for many years, including during her marriage to Dan Tanner. He attended university with Dan and maintained a close friendship with the couple. Following Dan's death, Murdo continued to support Tanner both professionally and personally. His history with Tanner complicates their developing romantic relationship.

Role in this Story:
In the novel, Murdo oversees the investigation into the G7 summit deaths. He acts as a liaison between the Complex Crimes Unit and higher-ranking officials, including Antonia Jacobs from the Scottish government. Murdo provides crucial support to Tanner's team, allowing them to continue investigating despite political pressure. He also grapples with his growing romantic feelings for Tanner and the ethical implications of their relationship.

Quick Descriptors:

Basic details:

• Name: Fraser Murdo
• Age: Mid to late forties (estimated)
• Place of Birth: Likely Scotland (unspecified)
• Current Residence: Glasgow area (presumed)
• Nationality: British (Scottish)
• Education Level: University degree, police training
• Occupation: Detective Superintendent, Police Scotland
• Income Level: Upper middle class
• Relationship Status: Single, developing relationship with Jade Tanner
• Car: Not specified

Physical Attributes:

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

Douglas McLeish:

Introduction:
Douglas McLeish is a fictional character in the McBride & Tanner crime novel series. He serves as a political advisor to Antonia Jacobs in the Scottish government and becomes the primary antagonist of the story in Power and Treachery.

Overview:
McLeish presents himself as a competent and ambitious political operative, climbing the ranks of the Scottish government quickly. He maintains a facade of professionalism while harboring a deep-seated desire for revenge against those he holds responsible for his father's death.

Background:
Douglas McLeish is the son of Gordon McLeish, who died in a landmine incident in Bosnia in 2002. The incident also involved Brendan Peters, Jason Barrowman (then Charles Jennings), and Janine Arroz. McLeish attended university with Stuart Burns and Charles Jennings' daughter, using these connections to gather information on his father's former colleagues. He has a twin brother, Hamish, who assists him in his revenge plot.

Role in this Story:
In the novel, McLeish orchestrates the murders of Brendan Peters, Jason Barrowman, and Pierre Leroux (mistaken for Janine Arroz) at the G7 summit. He uses his position in the Scottish government to access information and cover his tracks. McLeish manipulates his friendship with Stuart Burns to stay informed about the investigation while attempting to mislead the police.

Quick Descriptors:

Basic details:

• Name: Douglas McLeish
• Age: Late twenties to early thirties
• Place of Birth: Scotland (presumed)
• Current Residence: Edinburgh (presumed)
• Nationality: British (Scottish)
• Education Level: University degree
• Occupation: Political advisor to Antonia Jacobs
• Income Level: Middle to upper-middle class
• Relationship Status: Not specified
• Car: Land Rover

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Not specified
• Weight: Not specified
• Build: Not specified
• Skin colour: Not specified, likely fair
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Dark
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: None mentioned
• Other features: Described as rugged-looking

Antonia Jacobs:

Introduction:
Antonia Jacobs is a fictional character in the McBride & Tanner crime novel series. She serves as a senior official in the Scottish government, trusted by the First Minister in Power and Treachery.

Overview:
Jacobs is a shrewd and influential political operator who navigates the complex landscape of Scottish politics with skill and determination. She maintains a calm and professional demeanor while wielding significant power within the government.

Background:
The novel provides limited information about Jacobs' background. She has risen to a position of trust within the Scottish government, working closely with the First Minister. Her role involves managing sensitive political situations and liaising with law enforcement on high-profile cases.

Role in this Story:
In the novel, Jacobs plays a crucial role in the G7 summit investigation. She initially attempts to limit Police Scotland's involvement in the case, citing diplomatic concerns. As the investigation progresses, Jacobs shifts her stance, providing selective information to the police. She maintains a complex relationship with Douglas McLeish, her political advisor, alternately supporting and distancing herself from him as the situation evolves.

Quick Descriptors:

Basic details:

• Name: Antonia Jacobs
• Age: Late forties to early fifties (estimated)
• Place of Birth: Scotland (presumed)
• Current Residence: Edinburgh (presumed)
• Nationality: British (Scottish)
• Education Level: University degree (presumed)
• Occupation: Senior official in the Scottish government
• Income Level: Upper-middle to upper class
• Relationship Status: Not specified
• Car: Not specified

Physical Attributes:

• Height: Tall (described as at least 5'6")
• Weight: Not specified
• Build: Not specified
• Skin colour: Not specified, likely fair
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Blonde
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: None mentioned
• Other features: Wears her hair in a bun that becomes increasingly messy as her stress levels rise