Overview

Double Proof moves between two connected stories. In 1964, a rare bottle of Dalziel Double Proof whisky goes missing under mysterious circumstances. In 2023, Albie Dalziel disappears, pulling that old crime back into the light. Investigative journalist Robbie Gould is hired to find out what happened. He is short on money, long on bad decisions, and known for faking psychic abilities. As he digs deeper, the case opens into a messy world of stolen whisky, corruption, organised crime, and modern online fame, showing how the past still shapes the present.

Writing & Voice

We enjoyed Stewart’s sharp and confident style. The writing is fast and lively, with dark humour running alongside serious crime. The story shifts easily between older Glasgow and the modern world, keeping the pace high without becoming confusing. The tone feels playful at times, but never loses sight of the danger underneath.

Characters

Robbie Gould is a messy and unreliable lead, which makes him interesting to follow. He is desperate to fix his reputation but keeps making things worse. Albie Dalziel, though mostly absent, casts a long shadow over the story. The supporting cast includes criminals, wealthy collectors, and people chasing online attention, all adding to the sense of chaos and greed surrounding the case.

Themes

The novel looks at legacy, image, and excess in modern Scotland. It explores how traditions like whisky can become symbols of power and corruption. We also liked how the book compares old fashioned crime with influencer culture, showing how reputation and attention drive behaviour across generations.

What Worked

• Original idea a whisky theft tied to a modern disappearance feels fresh and well handled.
• High energy the story moves quickly and stays entertaining throughout.
• Clear sense of place Scotland’s cities and criminal edges feel vivid and convincing.

Minor Quibbles

• The jumps between timelines can briefly disrupt the flow for some readers.
• A few side plots, especially around social media fame, could have been explored in more depth.

Final Thoughts

Double Proof is an energetic and confident debut that blends crime, whisky culture, and modern satire into a sharp Scottish thriller.

Rating: ★★★★☆ / 5