Allan Gaw has created one of the most interesting and persuasive crime fiction heroes of recent times...  a splendidly developed novel and the skill with which Gaw develops the narrative is delightful

The two earlier books in the series were outstanding and "To the Shades Descend" is a worthy successor, adding the interest of a fresh location to many of the ingredients readers of the earlier books will recognise. I found myself drawn into the story and caring about the central characters

Gaw’s writing stood out as fresh, evocative and powerful. He has a demonstrable understanding of people, and it is his ability to create believable characters and to portray complex emotions in minimal words that captivate readers and listeners alike

The vivid and fascinating writing bringing these characters and cases to the page made us keep turning the pages

Allan Gaw's new crime novel is his best so far . . . evokes a vibrant, bustling Glasgow. With Cuthbert uncertainly picking his way through it like a foreign tourist, despite growing up only 40 miles away, To the Shades Descend excels for its well-researched setting and appealing protagonist

This is much more than a crime procedural. It is an opportunity to explore the religious and political sectarianism of Scotland’s largest city and the conditions endured by its poor, issues that are arguably still current today . . . pacey without feeling rushed and characterisation is finely drawn