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Scott Cullen Mysteries #7
Cowboys and Indians
With a series of male rapes around Edinburgh puzzling police, a bloodied corpse is found in the shadow of Edinburgh’s Dean Bridge, half-naked and battered. Who is he? Did he fall or was he pushed?
As the victim is identified, the case only gets murkier. Detective Sergeant Scott Cullen of Police Scotland’s Edinburgh Major Investigation Team is sucked into the depths of the city’s financial services sector, facing up to some old enemies and creating some new ones. Just months into his new role, Cullen is torn by the trials of a management role, putting a friendship on the line. New leads take them no further forward — too many suspects in a world where nobody trusts anyone and all are out for themselves. Can Cullen catch a killer who could be anyone?
From bestselling author Ed James, Cowboys and Indians is a tightly woven, gripping crime novel challenging the honesty of professional liars.
As the victim is identified, the case only gets murkier. Detective Sergeant Scott Cullen of Police Scotland’s Edinburgh Major Investigation Team is sucked into the depths of the city’s financial services sector, facing up to some old enemies and creating some new ones. Just months into his new role, Cullen is torn by the trials of a management role, putting a friendship on the line. New leads take them no further forward — too many suspects in a world where nobody trusts anyone and all are out for themselves. Can Cullen catch a killer who could be anyone?
From bestselling author Ed James, Cowboys and Indians is a tightly woven, gripping crime novel challenging the honesty of professional liars.
390 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 31, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
November 15, 2015
Cowboys and Indians is book 7 of the excellent Detective Scott Cullen series. I've been looking forward to diving into this book; I've been a fan of the series since the beginning. I wouldn't say you need to read the other book in the series first; there are references to past events, but not so many that a new reader would be lost. But as it's such an enjoyable series, I very much recommend reading the other books.
Cullen is easing into his new rank as Detective Sergeant, and managing a small group of detectives on the latest case of a man found dead under a bridge wearing only his underpants. They plunge into the sordid, corrupt field of banking, where everyone lies and power corrupts. Meanwhile, Cullen's girlfriend, DI Sharon McNeil is trying to solve a series of rapes on men after they visited a local gay bar, The Liquid Lounge.
There was lots to like in this book; strong characters and a riveting plot sucks you in from the start and the solid pace kept the plot moving without getting bogged down. I was afraid at first that Bain would not make an appearance; who doesn't love a character you love to hate? His antagonism provides not only a little comedy relief but also adds to the tension one needs while reading a thriller. Similarly, the relationship between Cullen and Sharon, and their sorrow is something that nearly everyone can relate to and gives one a more personal connection to the story.
Overall, a fantastic book by one of my favorite authors. Many thanks to Ed James for the advanced copy of what is easily the best book I've read so far this year.
Cullen is easing into his new rank as Detective Sergeant, and managing a small group of detectives on the latest case of a man found dead under a bridge wearing only his underpants. They plunge into the sordid, corrupt field of banking, where everyone lies and power corrupts. Meanwhile, Cullen's girlfriend, DI Sharon McNeil is trying to solve a series of rapes on men after they visited a local gay bar, The Liquid Lounge.
There was lots to like in this book; strong characters and a riveting plot sucks you in from the start and the solid pace kept the plot moving without getting bogged down. I was afraid at first that Bain would not make an appearance; who doesn't love a character you love to hate? His antagonism provides not only a little comedy relief but also adds to the tension one needs while reading a thriller. Similarly, the relationship between Cullen and Sharon, and their sorrow is something that nearly everyone can relate to and gives one a more personal connection to the story.
Overall, a fantastic book by one of my favorite authors. Many thanks to Ed James for the advanced copy of what is easily the best book I've read so far this year.
June 26, 2016
DS Scott Cullen, the protagonist from author Ed James excellent series of mystery thrillers once again overcomes the sometimes crazy to deliver in ,"Cowboys And Indians". The seventh book in this action packed series is as every bit as strong, and enjoyable as the first six books. Thankfully Cullen gets to battle his twin nemesis of DI. Colin Methven, and DS Brian Bain. The dialog in these strained relationships are part of the best reading in this series. The demoted Bain has had "Sundance" in his cross hairs for years (Cullen). Cullen's relationship with his current boss Methven, has never been much better than with Bain. Where Cullen bristles in his work relationships with Methven, and Bain, it's his personal relationship with acting DI Sharon McNeill that has the most impact on Cullen. Cullen and McNeill have been an item for several years. Sharon within the last twelve months, has lost the couple's baby "Becky" through a miscarriage placing a solid emotional wall between the two. The extraordinary plot of, "Cowboys And Indians", features two different crimes that are plaguing "Leith Walk Station" Scotland Police. Sharon and her team are investigating a series of male rapes that seem to be coming from a gay night club known as the "The Liquid Lounge". Cullen on the other hand working for Methven is investigating a murder of an executive of Alba Bank, Jonathan Van de Merwe. Known as "VDM" Van de Merwe was found tossed off a bridge wearing only his underpants. Cullen and his mate PC Simon Buxton are taking the lead on the VDM murder. Cullen has also taken Buxton under his wing to get him a semi-promotion and some better job security. This is a plot that must weave through a collection of some very dodgy and vile characters of ill repute. Author Ed James' characters always seem to be able to bring out the best in his plots. Unique is an understatement ! Lead Scott Cullen has a knack of cutting through the spew of nonsense from his suspects to get at his killer. Adding the the dynamic of Sharon, and her case crossing into and out of Scott's case give the plot plenty of twists and turns. All seven of the Scott Cullen books have been complete reading enjoyment. I hate to put down one of author Ed James Cullen books until I'm finished. The Cullen books are very difficult to put aside with having to read just one more chapter, and then just one more ! I'm already anxiously awaiting the eighth book from this series. However until that time I'm going to moving on to another one of his series characters. Five stars out of a possible five stars. I'd highly recommend this series from author Ed James. Do yourself a huge favor and start with the first book and read them all. Author Ed James is proving to be a master story teller. Maybe one day Scott Cullen will be a TV detective or on film (?)
October 24, 2016
It's hard to believe that Mr James has written 6 books in the series as the 7th, Cowboys And Indians is as fresh as when the series started.
DS Scott Cullen is helping his girlfriend, DI Sharon McNeill, catch a rapist preying on young men when he is pulled off the case to investigate a dead body which fell off a bridge. Nobody is sure if it's murder or suicide but the latter looks unlikely because how many men leave their home in the middle of the night, wearing only underpants to kill themselves? The victim is a deeply unpleasant banker, Jonathan van de Merwe, with a cupboard full of secrets which sees the suspect list grow as they are uncovered.
I must admit that I was too caught up in the plot to have time to try and guess the perpetrator. Mr James writes a good novel. His pacing is excellent with just enough revelation at any given time to whet your appetite and keep you turning the pages, his ear for realistic dialogue is second to none, his humour is funny, his plotting is smart and intricate enough to keep you hooked without giving you brainache and his characterisation is developed, especially his protagonist, Scott Cullen.
We see a much more mature Scott Cullen in Cowboys and Indians. He has been promoted so gone is his whining about it, that is left to PC Simon Buxton who hates being back on the streets and is desperate to become a full time detective. He adapts well to the role of sergeant, taking the hard decisions when required and directing his team, although he may have to improve his motivational skills. Problems at home test his new maturity and sobriety and his attempts to deal with DS Bain, his old nemesis, seconded from Glasgow to help out prove that his inner teenager has not left completely.
Mr James has plenty to say on the subject of morally corrupt bankers and their ways of working the system. I got a bit lost in the geek speak but the overall message is clear - jobs for the boys and greed. It is a shame to tar all in the industry with the same brush but the publicity of their real life antics over the past few years makes it difficult to believe these fictional antics are far from the truth.
Cowboys and Indians is an excellent read with a good plot, realistic characters and some humour so I have no hesitation in recommending it.
DS Scott Cullen is helping his girlfriend, DI Sharon McNeill, catch a rapist preying on young men when he is pulled off the case to investigate a dead body which fell off a bridge. Nobody is sure if it's murder or suicide but the latter looks unlikely because how many men leave their home in the middle of the night, wearing only underpants to kill themselves? The victim is a deeply unpleasant banker, Jonathan van de Merwe, with a cupboard full of secrets which sees the suspect list grow as they are uncovered.
I must admit that I was too caught up in the plot to have time to try and guess the perpetrator. Mr James writes a good novel. His pacing is excellent with just enough revelation at any given time to whet your appetite and keep you turning the pages, his ear for realistic dialogue is second to none, his humour is funny, his plotting is smart and intricate enough to keep you hooked without giving you brainache and his characterisation is developed, especially his protagonist, Scott Cullen.
We see a much more mature Scott Cullen in Cowboys and Indians. He has been promoted so gone is his whining about it, that is left to PC Simon Buxton who hates being back on the streets and is desperate to become a full time detective. He adapts well to the role of sergeant, taking the hard decisions when required and directing his team, although he may have to improve his motivational skills. Problems at home test his new maturity and sobriety and his attempts to deal with DS Bain, his old nemesis, seconded from Glasgow to help out prove that his inner teenager has not left completely.
Mr James has plenty to say on the subject of morally corrupt bankers and their ways of working the system. I got a bit lost in the geek speak but the overall message is clear - jobs for the boys and greed. It is a shame to tar all in the industry with the same brush but the publicity of their real life antics over the past few years makes it difficult to believe these fictional antics are far from the truth.
Cowboys and Indians is an excellent read with a good plot, realistic characters and some humour so I have no hesitation in recommending it.
August 26, 2015
First of all, thank you to the author for sending me an ARC for a honest review, here goes.
This was a complex case, a two-fold one, that had many many different people involved. I genuinely feared for Scott at one stage, this was also when I figured out the 'doer' for Sharon's case, but I never saw what was coming next & how it all tied in. One disappointment is the return of Bain. I do not like him as a character (I'm sure that you are not supposed to) and I really do find it hard to believe his behaviour would be tolerated in today's Police Force.
I have read all the books in the Scott Cullen series and I honestly think this is the best one so far. Cullen has really grown as a character, ok he can still be a bit whiny, but he has taken on his extra responsibilities with aplomb. His relationship with Sharon is rounded out a bit more and his interactions with his colleagues are written more in depth. I love reading books based in my birth town of Edinburgh, there are many written, but it's the little things that are included by the author that really make the Cullen series stand-out.
If you haven't read any of this series, I thoroughly recommend you check them out.
This was a complex case, a two-fold one, that had many many different people involved. I genuinely feared for Scott at one stage, this was also when I figured out the 'doer' for Sharon's case, but I never saw what was coming next & how it all tied in. One disappointment is the return of Bain. I do not like him as a character (I'm sure that you are not supposed to) and I really do find it hard to believe his behaviour would be tolerated in today's Police Force.
I have read all the books in the Scott Cullen series and I honestly think this is the best one so far. Cullen has really grown as a character, ok he can still be a bit whiny, but he has taken on his extra responsibilities with aplomb. His relationship with Sharon is rounded out a bit more and his interactions with his colleagues are written more in depth. I love reading books based in my birth town of Edinburgh, there are many written, but it's the little things that are included by the author that really make the Cullen series stand-out.
If you haven't read any of this series, I thoroughly recommend you check them out.
January 1, 2016
This is Book Seven in DC/DS Scott Cullen, I have enjoyed each of the Cullen books and this one was no different. This series only gets better as the books come.
I didn't understand the name choice "Cowboys and Indians" but as I got into the story it became crystal clear. In this instalment Scott is learning that been a leader is not a easy job and having friends is made all that harder.
Cullen is dealing with private feelings about the lost of his daughter and also the aftermath dealing with it. Sharon and Scott have some hard times ahead of them and I look forward to see them work through them . Cullen friendships play a massive part in the story this time and Rich and Scott find out what true friendship is all about as well as betray..
Mr James does not let us down with the story twisted and keeps us guessing tell the very end. I love the way we get all the information but I still not able to sort out who did it.
To me this is a good sign of Crime writer and will always keep me coming back for more.
I didn't understand the name choice "Cowboys and Indians" but as I got into the story it became crystal clear. In this instalment Scott is learning that been a leader is not a easy job and having friends is made all that harder.
Cullen is dealing with private feelings about the lost of his daughter and also the aftermath dealing with it. Sharon and Scott have some hard times ahead of them and I look forward to see them work through them . Cullen friendships play a massive part in the story this time and Rich and Scott find out what true friendship is all about as well as betray..
Mr James does not let us down with the story twisted and keeps us guessing tell the very end. I love the way we get all the information but I still not able to sort out who did it.
To me this is a good sign of Crime writer and will always keep me coming back for more.
December 17, 2015
This is book 7 in the Scott Cullen series and they just get better and better.
The relationship problems between Scott and his long term partner Sharon give this a good background and the case itself has many twists and turns with poor Scott getting caught up in it in a rather nasty fashion at one point. Bain is as irritating as ever, strangely another plus point. I couldn't cope if he turned over a new leaf!
Can't wait for the next one. Thank you Mr James :-)
The relationship problems between Scott and his long term partner Sharon give this a good background and the case itself has many twists and turns with poor Scott getting caught up in it in a rather nasty fashion at one point. Bain is as irritating as ever, strangely another plus point. I couldn't cope if he turned over a new leaf!
Can't wait for the next one. Thank you Mr James :-)
October 16, 2015
Without doubt this is Ed James finest novel to date. They keep on getting better and better and you can feel that you are alongside DS Scott Cullen in his professional and personal lives. Can't wait for the next one.
September 2, 2015
A Great Read ..Really love Cullen and the Gang ..this could be the best story yet
November 3, 2023
“Cowboys and Indians” is the seventh book in the Scott Cullen series by author Ed James. An excellent police procedural series with the engaging Detective Scott Cullen. Detective Scott Cullen serves as a compelling and relatable protagonist. The struggles and complexities that Cullen faces as a young cop in Edinburgh, driven by ambition and a desire to excel in his career make this series a fascinating read. We watch Cullen’s character development and growth as he navigates the challenges of a baffling investigation with his relentless pursuit of justice and determination to uncover the truth.
This is another excellent addition to the series and features a series of male rapes that are plaguing Edinburgh. When a dead body is found near Dean Bridge, the mystery deepens, and Detective Cullen is pulled into the city’s financial services sector.
The novel is well written with plenty of interest throughout, the story deals with trust, betrayal, and ambition and all the usual characters are featured, I was constantly trying to work out the identity of the killer.
For me the real strength of this series is the well developed characters that add another dimension to the clever well thought out plots. I really enjoy this series.
This is another excellent addition to the series and features a series of male rapes that are plaguing Edinburgh. When a dead body is found near Dean Bridge, the mystery deepens, and Detective Cullen is pulled into the city’s financial services sector.
The novel is well written with plenty of interest throughout, the story deals with trust, betrayal, and ambition and all the usual characters are featured, I was constantly trying to work out the identity of the killer.
For me the real strength of this series is the well developed characters that add another dimension to the clever well thought out plots. I really enjoy this series.
December 14, 2018
Return to form
Really enjoyed this book 7 in the Cullen series, thought the last book which was 2 short stories was a bit rushed and not quite a novel so really pleased this was back to the authors best. All the usual suspects, Cullen, Buxton, Sharon , Jain , Crystal and the awfully brilliant Bain are back , a story of male rape is uncomfortable reading at times whilst another story of financial irregularities at a big bank run along side each other, both knitted together brilliant by Ed James. since speaking to the author on Twitter he’s told me that the next 2 stories are the hunter books before book so of like me your a Cullen fan head to those first before no 8. Great book
Really enjoyed this book 7 in the Cullen series, thought the last book which was 2 short stories was a bit rushed and not quite a novel so really pleased this was back to the authors best. All the usual suspects, Cullen, Buxton, Sharon , Jain , Crystal and the awfully brilliant Bain are back , a story of male rape is uncomfortable reading at times whilst another story of financial irregularities at a big bank run along side each other, both knitted together brilliant by Ed James. since speaking to the author on Twitter he’s told me that the next 2 stories are the hunter books before book so of like me your a Cullen fan head to those first before no 8. Great book
February 9, 2021
I’ve read all the Scott Cullen books and I have enjoyed everyone. Cowboys and Indians is no exception. In fact this novel is my favourite so far. Ed James deals with the topic of male rape in an interesting way and combines it with the story about corrupt business dealings. There are many twists which keeps you entertained and hooked to the story.
As I have mentioned I have read all the books in this series and although you don’t have to read all to enjoy this book, you will have missed a very good series. I think Ed James has created a wonderful character in Cullen and his enemy Bain.
I’ve never written a review about an Ed James novel before (I don’t know why)but felt compelled to because I enjoyed it so much.
As I have mentioned I have read all the books in this series and although you don’t have to read all to enjoy this book, you will have missed a very good series. I think Ed James has created a wonderful character in Cullen and his enemy Bain.
I’ve never written a review about an Ed James novel before (I don’t know why)but felt compelled to because I enjoyed it so much.
December 27, 2023
The fact that I sat up to 1am reading this says it all about this book and the rest of the series. What I have loved is that the Cullen character has almost come full circle now that he is a DS, dealing with the responsibilities that come with the role. What I also liked was the story behind the bank - Coming from that background I really enjoyed that aspect and exposing the multiple ways that these things go wrong and the politics that go with it.
I love that Ed James is clearly enjoying writing the characters and has a 'full flow' with the Cullen and Bain characters in particular. I am glad that I have discovered this author with a lengthy bibliography so that I have something that I can return to and add to my reading challenge through 2024!
I love that Ed James is clearly enjoying writing the characters and has a 'full flow' with the Cullen and Bain characters in particular. I am glad that I have discovered this author with a lengthy bibliography so that I have something that I can return to and add to my reading challenge through 2024!
January 20, 2020
A different feel
Having read all the DS Cullen books in order, one after the other, I thought this one had a different feel to it. There was a lot of financial technical stuff which was a bit over my head but that didn't detract from the main plot. Cullen is a really interesting character both as a policeman and as a partner of DI McNeil and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Having read all the DS Cullen books in order, one after the other, I thought this one had a different feel to it. There was a lot of financial technical stuff which was a bit over my head but that didn't detract from the main plot. Cullen is a really interesting character both as a policeman and as a partner of DI McNeil and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
August 4, 2017
Thrilling storyline.
I have thoroughly enjoyed this book and the previous six books. DS Cullens background is totally believable. I know people who are just like him. The storylines are thrilling, I find it difficult to put the books down. Many Thanks Ed for such a great read.I look forward to the next one.
I have thoroughly enjoyed this book and the previous six books. DS Cullens background is totally believable. I know people who are just like him. The storylines are thrilling, I find it difficult to put the books down. Many Thanks Ed for such a great read.I look forward to the next one.
Read
May 9, 2025A man falls, or is pushed, off a bridge at night wearing only his underpants. Turns out to be a high flyer at Alba Bank and of course it's murder. Lots of stuff about banks, finance and computerisation and outsourcing. And of course corruption?
At the same time Sharon is investigating a series of brutal rapes of men whose drinks were spiked at the same bar. Naturally the stories overlap.
At the same time Sharon is investigating a series of brutal rapes of men whose drinks were spiked at the same bar. Naturally the stories overlap.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2018
Fast paced, well plotted, good characterisation. Up to usual Cullen standards.
Fast paced, well plotted and good characterisation. Up to usual Cullen standards. Not the usual case but showed a lot of inside knowledge.
Fast paced, well plotted and good characterisation. Up to usual Cullen standards. Not the usual case but showed a lot of inside knowledge.
August 23, 2018
Really enjoyable
Just waiting on next book already pre ordered soon as it's on my kindle phone off in my comfy chair mp3 player on and feet up until finish I would advise if you haven't read all the series to start
Just waiting on next book already pre ordered soon as it's on my kindle phone off in my comfy chair mp3 player on and feet up until finish I would advise if you haven't read all the series to start
November 7, 2020
These need a tighter edit/proofread but i'm really enjoying the series and the characters. There's a wee tinge of Irvine Welsh, likes, covering as it does some of the same areas. Sometimes i can hear the voice of Spud or the bullying arrogance of Begbie in there. Love it!
August 18, 2022
One star was exceedingly generous.
In summaryi would say that I fund the book to be complete rubbish. This was my first and certainly my last time reading this author. Suffice to say - once bitten, twice shy
In summaryi would say that I fund the book to be complete rubbish. This was my first and certainly my last time reading this author. Suffice to say - once bitten, twice shy
October 29, 2024
Cowboys and Indians. Ed James
Thrilling read full of Suspense and intrigue. Working on one case, then helping out on a second, yet one of the cases plunges out another making three. Are they connected. Once you start reading You will not be able to put it down.
Thrilling read full of Suspense and intrigue. Working on one case, then helping out on a second, yet one of the cases plunges out another making three. Are they connected. Once you start reading You will not be able to put it down.
November 28, 2017
Supurbe
Top class writing again. The storyline was very good and you did not get the end till right at the end
Top class writing again. The storyline was very good and you did not get the end till right at the end
May 9, 2018
Excellent Boòk
Best of the Cullen books so far. Look forward to Heroes and Villains and his future adventures with DS Bain
Best of the Cullen books so far. Look forward to Heroes and Villains and his future adventures with DS Bain
January 13, 2019
Convoluted but engaging. Difficult to spot the outcome until the last chapters.
April 11, 2019
Great
Love the Scott Cullen books. So true to life such great reads.would recommend for anyone who likes a good read.
Love the Scott Cullen books. So true to life such great reads.would recommend for anyone who likes a good read.
May 26, 2019
Starting book eight in this series.
July 12, 2019
The interest continues
The tension is ramping up between Cullen & Bain and the story lines are getting better. Looking forgo the next one.
The tension is ramping up between Cullen & Bain and the story lines are getting better. Looking forgo the next one.
December 14, 2019
Gripping
Another fast paced, multi plot layered instalment in the Scott Cullen series. Great to see old faces returning to mix up the dynamics. On to book 8
Another fast paced, multi plot layered instalment in the Scott Cullen series. Great to see old faces returning to mix up the dynamics. On to book 8
April 19, 2020
Really enjoying the series
Well written, good characters, interesting cases. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series! Definitely recommend Ed's books.
Well written, good characters, interesting cases. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series! Definitely recommend Ed's books.
February 9, 2021
Another great romp with Cullen & the gang.
May 17, 2021
Another great read by EdJames
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews