Remarkably, Mac turned up almost fully formed during lockdown. There must have been something working in my subconscious during the night as I woke up the next morning with an almost complete character. I made some notes and continued with other books, but I found myself scribbling plot points on the back of shopping lists and petrol receipts. The idea wouldn't leave me alone and basically grew legs. It percolated for a long time before I actually began to write and by that time much of the other cast members had appeared.
I wanted to explore a unique character who not only solves complex crimes but also navigates the world with the perspective of someone on the autism spectrum. His love for thrash metal adds depth to his personality, reflecting his method of coping with the high demands of his job. Mac often struggles with social cues and direct communication, which can complicate his interactions with colleagues and witnesses. However, his detailed-focused thinking enables him to see patterns and connections that others might miss, making him an exceptional detective.
(At the time of writing) Book 4, Sins of the Fathers, went to the publisher a few days ago, so I'm now at the plotting stage for book 5. As yet there isn't a title, but Mac finally returns to Skye to solve the murder of his sister. It's going to be an emotional ride for him.
Readers can look forward to deeper explorations of McNeill's past and how it influences his present, more complex cases that test his abilities, and continued development of recurring characters who add richness to the overarching story. My favourite part of the writing process is the initial plotting where I get to lay out the pieces of the puzzle. There's a thrill in constructing an intricate web of clues and red-herrings which, hopefully, keeps the readers guessing.
Everywhere. Snippets of overheard conversations at the supermarket. From the newspapers, the TV. People watching is a great pastime for an author, particularly how they interact with one another. I have ideas all the time and write down everything. Some of which will never see the light of day, but every so often there's one I know will really work. I also find research an incredible way to find inspiration. I've fallen down the rabbit hole many times while investigating a particular theme or place for my books, all of which spark additional ideas.
Mac turned up with the McNeill name so, for me, he couldn't be anything but Scottish. A reader recently pointed out he could have been Irish, but with no personal links to Ireland it didn't cross my mind. Mac was definitely a Scot. Ireland colonised Scotland in part between 400 and 800 AD, so both countries have Celtic roots. There has been considerable population exchange between them over the millennia, so in all probability Mac does have historical generational links to Ireland. I spent many a holiday in Scotland when I was young, as my uncle was posted to Faslane Naval Base (HMNB - HM Naval Base Clyde,) where he worked on the Nuclear Subs. I've been back many times as an adult, although not recently, and Edinburgh is one of my favourite cities. The wealth of history and folklore is a gift to a writer. My gran's sister was a history teacher and traced the family tree back to Scottish royalty.
On a boat on Loch Lomand. The scowl is prelude to a serious bout of sea sickness, which I still suffer from.
Christmas. Decorating the tree with my younger brother. Wearing one of my favourite kilts.
Books were on every Christmas and birthday list. I set up my own little library in my bedroom aged six.
Another tartan outfit. I'd fallen a few days earlier and had stitches in my head, so my hair couldn't be brushed properly.
Me with my seafaring uncle.
Henry the Oban piper.
At Oban whisky distillery. The look on my face says it all. Great tour but the smell!
All aboard for the trip to Mull, Staffa and Iona. Seasick again!
Monastery on Iona.
Highland Arts Exhibition, Easdale.