Step into the thrilling world of historical crime with A Case of Desecration in the West, the sixth instalment in the gripping John MacKenzie series set in late 17th-century Scotland. Join investigative advocate John MacKenzie and his witty sidekick Davie Scougall as they embark on a riveting journey to Glasgow and the opulent Hamilton Palace.

Unravel the mystery surrounding the drowning of Bethia Porterfield in the Avon Water. Was it a tragic accident, suicide, or something more sinister like murder? What secrets lie behind the desecration of a Quaker burial ground near Hamilton, and what connection does it have to the clandestine Cadzow Kiss, a forbidden club meeting in the ruins of Cadzow Castle? Prepare for a rollercoaster of suspense and intrigue as MacKenzie and Scougall navigate the treacherous waters of deception.

A Case of Desecration in the West is a journey into a cesspit of dark secrets that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

A mysterious death, secrets, lies and a pair of dogged detectives. Throw in some impeccable history, religious fervour and a secret society and you have an intriguing read. DOUGLAS SKELTON

This book was fantastic, and I flew through it in a couple of evenings. It’s almost as if it was written for me! GRAEME_C

This is one of those books that the characters are just instantly interesting and intriguing. It’s hard to pinpoint why but right away I was invested in them. Even some of minor characters had some interesting backstories and felt fleshed out. ADAMTRIESBOOKS

Exceptionally well-written, this murder mystery is an intricate narrative which is interwoven with historical events of 17th century Scotland. I thoroughly enjoyed the slow, linear storytelling, with the main character uncovering a new clue in each chapter, gradually getting closer to the killer. ADREAMERONTHERUN

I have immediately gone and added the rest of the books to my wishlist. KATIELUVSTOREAD

A really gripping, suspenseful read! Murder mystery meets history - it was the perfect book for me! MUM_OF_BOYS_NORTHEAST

I really loved the historical element of this book. The reign of William and Mary isn't one I know much about, and I found the religious discourse between the Christian denominations particularly interesting. Douglas has clearly done his research for this series. BLUEFAIRYBUGSBOOKS

I enjoyed this book as I'm not overly familiar with Scottish history in the late 17th century, and I could picture the scenes well. JOHANNESBOOKRECCOMENDATIONS

A Case of Desecration in the West is a journey into a cesspit of dark secrets that will keep you on the edge of your seat.BOOKWORMWHITLOCK86

Although a work of fiction, the research that must have gone into this book was fantastic - the local history of Lanarkshire and that of the Glasgow Slave Trade coming together. PROMISING_PAGES

This historical mystery is perfect if you’re interested in Scottish history! BOOKSTAGRAM_HANN

I love mysteries where you can follow along and try and solve the cases yourself. I won’t give any spoilers for this one but definitely a fun one. HANNAHSBOOKISHJOURNEY

Lots of twists and turns. Red herrings which I didn't see coming. SUE.WALLACE1974

DOUGLAS WATT was born in Edinburgh and brought up there and in Aberdeen. He was educated at Edinburgh University where he gained an MA and PhD in Scottish History. Douglas is the author of a series of historical crime novels set in late 17th century Scotland featuring investigative advocate John MacKenzie and his side-kick Davie Scougall. He is also the author of The Price of Scotland, a prize-winning history of Scotland’s Darien Disaster. He lives in Midlothian with his wife Julie.