McCulloch's Dilemma

It is historical fiction set in events of the time. The story has resonances in today's society - suppression of freedom of expression and abuse of power of those in power.

"Citizens, we must rebel against the tyranny of power usurped."

Thomas Paine: Rights of Man 1791

John McCulloch is a young typesetter living in Edinburgh in 1792, a time of civil and political unrest in Britain; a time when Societies started to be formed throughout the land, all aiming to achieve voting reform to put an end to bribery and corruption; a time when the Establishment was terrified the masses would rise and bring about revolution as they had done in France and Lord Henry Dundas, Home Secretary, began to enlist a network of spies to catch and punish anyone printing or distributing any 'seditious material'.

A chance encounter leads John to reconnect with his childhood friend Amelia - the daughter of a local landowner where his father is gamekeeper on the estate - who is destined to marry into wealth and status. They become swept up in a maelstrom of rapidly unfolding political events.

At the heart of the novel is the quest for voting reform, and the quest for love in the face of adversity.

 "Great story. A page turner."