St Andrews, 1583, and tensions are running high.

Dissension rages between King and councillors, and between separate factions of the Kirk. Hew Cullan is called to investigate a mysterious incident, and finds suspicion falling upon him as he is ensnared in a world of superstition, subterfuge and death.

Hew Cullan finds himself once again in the company of his sister Meg and her husband, Giles Locke, in their most challenging case yet. Alliances are formed; there are old scores to be settled; old ghosts reappear and spies are abroad. The king's escape from captivity throws all into confusion, and as Hew's loves and loyalties are put to the test, his own life and future are no longer secure.

Friend & Foe is the fourth Hew Cullan mystery by Shirley McKay.