Published 10th February 2025 by SRL Publishing.
From the cover of the book:
Can intrusive thoughts really lead to murder?With a client who may be guilty of stealing millions from the mob and another who believes her partner is being sucked into a dangerous cult, the forensic psychologist turned private detective can't afford any slip-ups this time.
But has the seasoned investigator finally lost his grip and allowed himself to be side-tracked by Zach Lindley and his internet conspiracy theories? And has he left his assistant, Sekaylia, in the firing line?
In the historic streets of York, McQueen faces the frustrations of a faltering investigation and the anger of a distressed client while he wrestles with his own guilt over tragic mistakes he may have made in the past, and the devastation they left behind.
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Dr McQueen, forensic psychologist and criminologist turned private detective, is approached by a client who needs help proving her innocence in a case of embezzlement. His instincts tell him that elderly Mary Barton is not quite telling the truth, making him reluctant to take on the case, but his assistant Sekaylia (Lia) persuades him otherwise - and paying customers are thin on the ground.
Meanwhile, a pregnant woman asks McQueen to investigate a mysterious organisation run by charismatic Zach Lindley, who has her partner in his thrall - along with a number of other disaffected young men. Is this just an innocent support group, or some kind of cult?
In the seemingly quiet streets of historic York, there are those with dark secrets, and both these cases are about to get McQueen and Lia mixed up in danger - not to mention the fact that a previous client has an axe to grind...
Although there are quite a few references to what has come before in the series, this can be read as a satisfying stand-alone. It rattles along at a good pace through the points of view of a number of characters, primarily McQueen, Lia, and McQueen's friend (and occasional helpmate) Detective Tracey Bingham, giving them all plenty to keep them busy - McQueen investigating the sinister plans of Zach Langley, which sucks him into a world of conspiracy theories; Lia delving into the increasingly implausible testimony of Mary Barton; and Tracey providing helpful backup in connection with cases past and present. McQueen's character is rich in the kind of arrogance that comes with the gum shoe territory, making him a tricky prospect to warm to. I loved Lia's determination though, and Tracey Bingham was a great character - and it has to be said that they central characters work well as a team.
Without giving too much away, the plot thickens with plenty of mystery, suspense, double dealing, and twisty revelations, and McDowall has an admirable ability to misdirect, keeping you guessing until all the plotlines work themselves out. However, the best thing about this book, for me, is the way McDowall weaves this story to explore a wealth of fascinating and timely themes. The psychological aspects of the story are very thought-provoking, especially the parts about intrusive thoughts, and the cult plotline is absolutely spot on given the insidious spread of conspiracy misinformation that has become part of our lives, and the disturbing rise of the 'male-energy' agenda. McQueen's complicated character delves into some knotty themes around PTSD, guilt, and forgiveness, that add pleasing emotional content too.
There is plenty of grit in this story, which combines nicely with a cosy quality from character and setting, making it a very entertaining read.
The McQueen Legacy is available to buy now in paperback and ebook formats.
Thank you to SRL Publishing for sending me a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
About the author:
As well as being a Creative Copywriter Stewart has written for national magazines, T.V. and radio and also spent many nights on stage as a stand-up comedian.
Stewart has combined his love of dark stories with his fascination for psychology in his debut crime novel, THE MURDER OPTION.
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