James Robertson's novel was inspired by a variety of different Scottish literary and cultural sources. He reflects Scotland's changing social and religious attitudes.

A series of seemingly supernatural events lead Church of Scotland minister Gideon Mack to confess to living a deceitful life. He is shunned by society and dies in mysterious circumstances.

James Robertson creates a rich tapestry of interesting, unique and complex characters in order to tell Gideon Mack’s strange story and defy our expectations.

Religious belief, the supernatural, deception, family relationships and mental illness are key themes of The Testament of Gideon Mack.

Taking his inspiration from Scotland’s local folklore and links to Calvinism, Robertson creates settings which represent some of the most important themes in The Testament of Gideon Mack.

Use of foreshadowing, narrative structure, point-of-view and unreliable narrator enhance the mystery surrounding Gideon’s story, allowing the reader to interpret events in a variety of ways.