"McBride & Tanner" is a crime novel set in Scotland, primarily on the Isle of Arran. The story follows DI Jade Tanner and forensic psychologist Dr. Petra McBride as they investigate the ritualistic murder of Erik Haldane, whose body is found in a boat near Lochranza. The investigation uncovers a complex web of cult activity, personal struggles, and hidden motives, culminating in the revelation of the true killer and significant life changes for the main characters.

The Crime:

The primary crime is the murder of Erik Haldane, whose body is discovered arranged ritualistically in a boat near Lochranza on the Isle of Arran. The investigation initially focuses on a cult led by Astrid Thorsen, with suspicion falling on cult member Morgan MacLeod after a blood-stained dagger is found in their possession. However, this proves to be a red herring as forensic evidence reveals the dagger was planted. The investigation then shifts to Professor Alistair Macleod, who is ultimately revealed as the true killer, having murdered Erik to protect what he saw as significant historical discoveries related to Norse rituals.

Sub Plots:

DI Jade Tanner's struggle with multiple sclerosis: Throughout the novel, Jade experiences symptoms that lead to her diagnosis with MS, forcing her to confront her future in law enforcement and her personal relationships.

Dr. Petra McBride's stalking ordeal: Petra deals with the aftermath of a past case where her professional judgment led to the release of a criminal who later committed murder. She receives threatening letters and is stalked, leading to significant stress and ultimately influencing her decision to leave Scotland.

DS Mo Uddin's personal journey: Mo struggles with homesickness and dissatisfaction with urban life in Scotland, eventually leading to his decision to transfer to a rural posting.

Main characters:

• DI Jade Tanner
• Dr. Petra McBride
• DS Mo Uddin
• Professor Alistair Macleod
• Astrid Thorsen
• Fraser Munro
• Freya
• Morgan MacLeod

Relationship development:

• Jade Tanner and Fraser Munro: Their relationship evolves from professional to romantic, with Fraser providing support as Jade deals with her MS diagnosis.
• Petra McBride and Isla: Their relationship is strained due to Petra's professional struggles, but they reconcile and Isla supports Petra's decision to leave Scotland.
• Mo Uddin and Catriona: Their relationship strengthens as Mo decides to prioritize his family's happiness by moving to a rural area.
• Freya and the cult: Freya's relationship with the cult deteriorates as she becomes suspicious of Alistair's involvement in Erik's death, ultimately leading to her leaving the group.

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 struggles with PTSD and grief throughout the story, finding it difficult to drive along the stretch of road where the accident occurred. Her developing relationship with Fraser helps her begin to move forward from her loss.

Petra's past case:

Petra previously gave evidence that led to the release of a man who later committed murder. This case haunts her throughout the novel, as she receives threatening letters and is stalked by the victim's parents. The stress of this situation contributes to her decision to leave Scotland and take on international cases, seeking a fresh start away from the reminders of her past mistake.

DI Jade Tanner

DI Jade Tanner is a fictional character in the crime novel series "McBride & Tanner" by Rachel McLean. She serves as the lead detective in the Complex Crimes Unit of Police Scotland.

Overview

Jade Tanner is a dedicated and skilled detective inspector known for her tenacity and sharp investigative skills. She balances her demanding career with single parenthood while coping with personal trauma and a recent multiple sclerosis diagnosis.

Background

Jade joined Police Scotland early in her career 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 current novel, Dan died in a car accident on the A82 outside their home on Loch Lomond, leaving Jade a widow and single mother.

Role in this Story

In the latest novel, Jade leads the investigation into the ritualistic murder of Erik Haldane on the Isle of Arran. While managing the case remotely from Glasgow, she grapples with worsening symptoms that lead to her MS diagnosis. Jade ultimately decides to retire from the police force due to her condition, marking a significant turning point in her life and career.

Basic Details and Physical Attributes

• Name: Jade Tanner
• Age: Early forties
• Place of Birth: [Unknown]
• Current Residence: Banks of Loch Lomond, Scotland
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: [Unknown]
• Occupation: Detective Inspector, Complex Crimes Unit, Police Scotland
• Income Level: [Unknown]
• Relationship Status: Widowed, developing a relationship with Fraser Munro
• Car: [Unknown]
• Height: [Unknown]
• Weight: [Unknown]
• Build: [Unknown]
• Skin colour: [Unknown]
• Eye colour: [Unknown]
• Hair colour: [Unknown]
• Face shape: [Unknown]
• Distinguishing marks: [Unknown]
• Physical ailments: Recently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis
• Other: Suffers from PTSD following her husband's death, experiences tremors and vision problems due to MS