Plot:

Deadly Reprisal follows Detective Inspector Zoe Finch as she investigates the murders of two students at the University of Birmingham. What initially appears to be a drug overdose becomes a complex case involving sexual assault, revenge, and medical school intrigue. As Zoe and her team unravel the connections between the victims and suspects, they must also navigate internal police politics and corruption.

The Crime:

The novel opens with the discovery of Laurence Thomms's body in his dorm room at Boulton Hall. Initially thought to be a drug overdose, forensic evidence reveals someone forced methamphetamine down his throat. Days later, Jenson Begg, a postgraduate student and residential tutor, is found dead in similar circumstances. The investigation focuses on the connections between the two victims, their relationships with other students, and the presence of formalin at both crime scenes. Red herrings include Jenson's apparent drug dealing and a possible vigilante killing Laurence for his alleged sexual assaults.

Sub Plots:

1. Police Corruption: Zoe grapples with an ongoing investigation into police corruption, particularly involving her former sergeant Ian Osman and Detective Superintendent David Randle.
2. Personal Relationships: Zoe navigates her strained relationship with her boyfriend, DI Carl Whaley, while balancing her work and home life with her son Nicholas.
3. DCI Clarke's Health: Zoe's boss, DCI Lesley Clarke, faces health issues stemming from a previous terrorist attack, leading to changes in the department's leadership.

Main characters:

1. DI Zoe Finch
2. DS Mohammed (Mo) Uddin
3. DC Connie Williams
4. DC Rhodri Hughes
5. Lin Johnson
6. Kayla Goode
7. Gina Lennon
8. DCI Lesley Clarke

Relationship development:

• Zoe and Carl: Their relationship is strained due to the police corruption investigation but begins to reconcile by the end of the novel.
• Zoe and Mo: Their friendship and professional partnership strengthens as they work through the case.
• Lin and Kayla: Their friendship is revealed to be manipulative, with Lin ultimately attempting to murder Kayla.
• Lin and Gina: Their romantic relationship is used by Lin to manipulate Gina and create alibis.

Police Corruption investigation:

The novel reveals ongoing investigations into police corruption, particularly focusing on DS Ian Osman's involvement with organized crime. Zoe discovers a photo linking Detective Superintendent David Randle to Alina Popescu, the bomber from a previous terrorist attack. This information complicates the corruption investigation and raises questions about high-level involvement in criminal activities. The novel ends with this subplot unresolved, setting up potential future developments in the series.

DI Zoe Finch:

Introduction:
Detective Inspector Zoe Finch is a fictional character created by author Rachel McLean. She serves as the protagonist in the DI Zoe Finch series of crime novels set in Birmingham, England.

Overview:
Zoe Finch is a dedicated and skilled detective inspector with the West Midlands Police Force. She balances her demanding career with single motherhood, often navigating complex personal relationships while solving high-profile cases. Finch is known for her sharp intuition, strong sense of justice, and willingness to challenge authority when necessary.

Background:
Zoe joined the police force as a young woman and quickly rose through the ranks. She became a mother to her son Nicholas at a young age and raised him largely on her own. Finch has a complicated relationship with Nicholas's father, Jim McManus, who is also a police officer. Throughout her career, Zoe has faced various challenges, including sexism within the force and high-stakes investigations that have put her and her loved ones in danger.

Role in this Story:
In Deadly Reprisal, Zoe leads the investigation into the murders of two university students. She navigates a complex web of relationships, suspects, and motives within the university community. Simultaneously, Finch grapples with an ongoing police corruption investigation that threatens to implicate high-ranking officers. Her personal life becomes entangled with the case as she works to reconcile with her boyfriend, DI Carl Whaley, while also supporting her son through family challenges.

Basic details and Physical Attributes:

• Name: Zoe Finch
• Age: Late 30s to early 40s (exact age not specified)
• Place of Birth: Birmingham area (implied)
• Current Residence: Birmingham, England
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Police training, likely some university education
• Occupation: Detective Inspector, West Midlands Police
• Income Level: Middle-class professional
• Relationship Status: In a relationship with DI Carl Whaley (complicated)
• Car: Mini Cooper
• Height: 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 m)
• Build: Average, fit
• Skin colour: Not explicitly stated, likely fair
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Not specified, but likely dark
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments or injuries: None mentioned

DS Mohammed (Mo) Uddin:

Introduction:
Detective Sergeant Mohammed Uddin, commonly known as Mo, is a fictional character in Rachel McLean's DI Zoe Finch series. He serves as Zoe Finch's trusted colleague and friend in the West Midlands Police Force.

Overview:
Mo Uddin is a dedicated and experienced detective sergeant who works closely with DI Zoe Finch. He brings a calm and methodical approach to investigations, often providing a balanced perspective to complement Zoe's more intuitive style. Mo is known for his loyalty to his team and his ability to navigate complex cases with patience and attention to detail.

Background:
Mo has been with the West Midlands Police Force for nearly two decades. He is married with two young daughters, Fiona and Isla. His family life plays a significant role in his character, often providing a contrast to the challenges he faces at work. Mo has a long-standing friendship with Zoe Finch, dating back to their early days in the force.

Role in this Story:
In Deadly Reprisal, Mo plays a crucial role in the investigation of the university murders. He conducts key interviews, analyzes evidence, and provides valuable insights that help move the case forward. Mo also serves as a sounding board for Zoe, offering support and advice as she navigates both the case and personal challenges. His steady presence helps ground the investigation amidst the complex web of suspects and motives.

Basic details and Physical Attributes:

• Name: Mohammed Uddin
• Age: Early to mid-40s (implied)
• Place of Birth: Birmingham area (likely)
• Current Residence: Birmingham, England
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Police training, possibly university education
• Occupation: Detective Sergeant, West Midlands Police
• Income Level: Middle-class professional
• Relationship Status: Married with two daughters
• Car: Not specified
• Height: 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 m)
• Weight: Not specified, likely average
• Build: Average
• Skin colour: Brown (implied due to South Asian heritage)
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Dark (likely)
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: Mentions back pain, suggesting he may struggle with this occasionally

DC Connie Williams:

Introduction:
Detective Constable Connie Williams is a fictional character in Rachel McLean's DI Zoe Finch series. She serves as a young and ambitious member of DI Finch's investigative team in the West Midlands Police Force.

Overview:
Connie Williams is a skilled detective constable who excels in digital forensics and data analysis. She brings a fresh perspective to investigations, often utilizing her technological expertise to uncover crucial evidence. Connie is known for her enthusiasm, quick thinking, and ability to connect with younger witnesses and suspects.

Background:
Connie joined the police force after completing her university education. She comes from a close-knit family and has a younger brother named Zaf. Connie's relationship with her mother is sometimes strained, as evidenced by her comments about her mother's new dog. She cycles to work regularly, indicating a commitment to fitness and environmental consciousness.

Role in this Story:
In Deadly Reprisal, Connie plays a significant role in the investigation of the university murders. She manages the DNA sampling process at Boulton Hall, conducts interviews with key witnesses, and develops theories that help advance the case. Connie's intuition about Lin Johnson's involvement proves crucial to solving the murders. She also provides emotional support to her colleagues, particularly showing concern for DCI Lesley Clarke's health.

Basic details and Physical Attributes:

• Name: Connie Williams
• Age: Mid to late 20s
• Place of Birth: Birmingham area (likely)
• Current Residence: Birmingham, England
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: University graduate
• Occupation: Detective Constable, West Midlands Police
• Income Level: Early career professional
• Relationship Status: Single (implied)
• Vehicle: Bicycle (primary mode of transport)
• Height: Not specified
• Weight: Described as "fat" by herself, though this may be self-deprecating
• Build: Larger build, but physically fit due to cycling
• Skin colour: Black (implied by description as "fat Jamaican woman")
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Not specified, likely dark
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: None mentioned

DC Rhodri Hughes:

Introduction:
Detective Constable Rhodri Hughes is a fictional character in Rachel McLean's DI Zoe Finch series. He serves as a member of DI Finch's investigative team in the West Midlands Police Force.

Overview:
Rhodri Hughes is a young and eager detective constable who brings enthusiasm and a fresh perspective to the team. He excels in interpersonal interactions, often connecting well with witnesses and suspects, particularly those closer to his age group. Rhodri demonstrates a willingness to learn and take on challenging tasks, even when they push him out of his comfort zone.

Background:
Rhodri joined the police force directly after school, foregoing university education. His Welsh background is evident in his accent and name. Rhodri has recently moved into a new flat and is in a relationship with a woman named Izzy, indicating he is establishing himself both personally and professionally.

Role in this Story:
In Deadly Reprisal, Rhodri plays a crucial role in several aspects of the investigation. He conducts key interviews, including a significant interaction with Jenson Begg. Rhodri also volunteers to attend the post-mortem examination, showing growth in his professional development. His discovery of the video footage from Mrs. Anderson proves pivotal in advancing the case. Rhodri's ability to connect with younger witnesses and his enthusiasm for detective work contribute significantly to the team's success.

Basic details and Physical Attributes:

• Name: Rhodri Hughes
• Age: Mid to late 20s
• Place of Birth: Wales (implied by name and accent)
• Current Residence: Birmingham, England
• Nationality: British (Welsh)
• Education Level: Police training, no university education mentioned
• Occupation: Detective Constable, West Midlands Police
• Income Level: Early career professional
• Relationship Status: In a relationship with Izzy
• Car: Saab (older model)
• Height: Described as "gangly," suggesting he is tall
• Weight: Not specified, likely average or slim given his "gangly" description
• Build: Tall and lean
• 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

Lin Johnson:

Introduction:
Lin Johnson is a fictional character in Rachel McLean's novel Deadly Reprisal. She is a first-year medical student at the University of Birmingham and a central figure in the murder investigation led by DI Zoe Finch.

Overview:
Lin Johnson presents herself as a confident and ambitious medical student with a popular YouTube channel called "Lin's Lens." She initially appears as a friend and supporter to other students, particularly Kayla Goode. However, as the story progresses, Lin reveals a darker, manipulative side, ultimately emerging as the primary antagonist.

Background:
Lin comes from Hemel Hempstead but affects a slight American accent, claiming her father is from Texas. She leverages her mixed heritage and fabricated background to create an intriguing persona for her social media presence. Lin demonstrates a keen understanding of anatomy and forensics due to her medical studies, which she later uses in her crimes.

Role in this Story:
Lin plays a pivotal role as both a witness and the perpetrator of the murders. She discovers Laurence Thomms's body with Kayla, uses her medical knowledge to stage the crime scene, and later kills Jenson Begg. Lin manipulates those around her, including her girlfriend Gina Lennon, to create alibis and misdirect the investigation. Her actions stem from a misguided sense of justice against perceived sexual predators. The story culminates with Lin attempting to murder Kayla when she suspects Kayla might reveal her crimes.

Basic details and Physical Attributes:

• Name: Lin Johnson
• Age: 19
• Place of Birth: Hemel Hempstead, England
• Current Residence: Boulton Hall, University of Birmingham
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: First-year medical student
• Occupation: Student, YouTuber
• Income Level: Student, supplemented by YouTube earnings
• Relationship Status: In a relationship with Gina Lennon
• Car: Not specified
• Height: Short and slender
• Weight: Not specified, likely slim
• Build: Petite
• Skin colour: Not explicitly stated, likely light brown or olive (due to mixed heritage)
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Dark, cropped short
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: None mentioned

Kayla Goode:

Introduction:
Kayla Goode is a fictional character in Rachel McLean's novel Deadly Reprisal. She is a first-year English student at the University of Birmingham and a key figure in the murder investigation led by DI Zoe Finch.

Overview:
Kayla Goode presents as a vulnerable and somewhat naive young woman who becomes entangled in a web of manipulation and violence. She struggles with the aftermath of sexual assault and finds herself in an unhealthy relationship with her residential tutor, Jenson Begg. Kayla's experiences and actions serve as a central focus of the investigation.

Background:
Kayla comes from a troubled family background, with her parents having separated when she was fourteen. She carries emotional scars from this experience, which influence her relationships and decision-making. Kayla's passion for literature, particularly Jane Austen's works, provides her with a form of escape from her troubles.

Role in this Story:
Kayla plays a crucial role as both a victim and a witness. She discovers Laurence Thomms's body alongside Lin Johnson, unknowingly becoming part of Lin's manipulative scheme. Kayla's past assault by Laurence and her relationship with Jenson Begg place her at the center of the investigation. Her reluctance to fully disclose information to the police stems from a combination of fear, confusion, and misplaced loyalty. The story culminates with Kayla narrowly escaping an attempted murder by Lin when she begins to suspect the truth.

Basic details and Physical Attributes:

• Name: Kayla Goode
• Age: 19
• Place of Birth: Not specified, likely Birmingham area
• Current Residence: Boulton Hall, University of Birmingham
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: First-year university student
• Occupation: Student
• Income Level: Student
• Relationship Status: Complicated relationship with Jenson Begg
• Car: Does not drive
• Height: Not specified
• Weight: Not specified
• Build: Not specified
• Skin colour: Not specified
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Dark
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: None mentioned, but experiences emotional trauma

Gina Lennon:

Introduction:
Gina Lennon is a fictional character in Rachel McLean's novel Deadly Reprisal. She works in student welfare at the University of Birmingham and becomes involved in the murder investigation led by DI Zoe Finch.

Overview:
Gina Lennon presents as a passionate advocate for women's rights and a supporter of victims of sexual assault. She runs a women's support group and maintains a relationship with Lin Johnson. Gina's actions, while well-intentioned, inadvertently complicate the murder investigation.

Background:
Gina graduated from the University of Birmingham two years prior to the events of the novel. She experienced an abusive relationship in the past, which fuels her dedication to supporting other women. Gina now works in the student welfare team, focusing on helping women who have experienced abuse or threats from fellow students.

Role in this Story:
Gina plays a significant role as both a suspect and an unwitting accomplice. She confronts Jenson Begg after hearing about his alleged assault on Lin, which places her at the scene shortly before his murder. Gina unknowingly provides Lin with alibis and support, believing she is helping victims of assault. Her involvement with the women's support group and her relationship with Lin complicate the investigation and lead the detectives down several false paths.

Basic details and Physical Attributes:

• Name: Gina Lennon
• Age: Mid-20s
• Place of Birth: Not specified
• Current Residence: Selly Oak, Birmingham
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: University graduate
• Occupation: Student welfare worker at University of Birmingham
• Income Level: Early career professional
• Relationship Status: In a relationship with Lin Johnson
• Car: Not specified
• Height: Mid-height
• Weight: Not specified
• Build: Not specified
• Skin colour: Not specified
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Short, brown
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: None mentioned

DCI Lesley Clarke:

Introduction:
Detective Chief Inspector Lesley Clarke is a fictional character in Rachel McLean's DI Zoe Finch series. She serves as Zoe Finch's direct superior in the West Midlands Police Force.

Overview:
DCI Lesley Clarke is a seasoned and respected police officer who leads the Force CID team with a mix of tough love and sharp wit. She possesses a keen investigative mind and often provides crucial insights that help solve complex cases. Clarke's leadership style combines pragmatism with a deep understanding of her team's strengths and weaknesses.

Background:
Lesley has risen through the ranks of the police force over many years, earning respect for her dedication and skill. She is married to Terry and has a daughter named Sharon who is preparing for her GCSEs. Clarke survived a terrorist attack at New Street Station, which left her with ongoing health issues and PTSD.

Role in this Story:
In Deadly Reprisal, DCI Clarke initially oversees the investigation into the university murders. However, her health takes a turn for the worse, leading to her collapse and hospitalization. This event significantly impacts the team dynamics and the progression of the case. By the end of the novel, Clarke faces a career change, being reassigned to Dorset for health reasons.

Basic details and Physical Attributes:

• Name: Lesley Clarke
• Age: Late 40s to early 50s (implied)
• Place of Birth: Not specified, likely Birmingham area
• Current Residence: Birmingham, England
• Nationality: British
• Education Level: Police training, possibly university education
• Occupation: Detective Chief Inspector, West Midlands Police
• Income Level: Upper middle-class professional
• Relationship Status: Married to Terry
• Car: Not specified
• Height: Not specified
• Weight: Not specified, but has recently lost weight due to illness
• Build: Not specified
• Skin colour: Not specified
• Eye colour: Not specified
• Hair colour: Grey
• Face shape: Not specified
• Distinguishing marks: None mentioned
• Physical ailments: Suffers from PTSD and ongoing health issues related to a previous terrorist attack, including breathing difficulties and fatigue