Who better to record the audiobook of the autobiography of Scotland's greatest policeman than tartan Hollywood legend Dougray Scott? The work is entitled No Apologies, and the Chief is a stickler for detail. He is soon coaching Scott's performance on everything from historical case accuracy to sexiness. Will a tight deadline and the crime-fighting needs of a nation prevent the Chief achieving lyrical literary perfection?

There's a big shock for the top cop when the Chief discovers his daughter Ellen is dating an undercover policeman, leading to a dilemma that soon spirals into a moral nightmare. Miekelson cannot compromise security arrangements for a controversial visit from an overseas dignitary, but he also has to do the right thing by his family. Between cosy drinks at home and strategic briefings at Holyrood, the Chief juggles being the father of the nation and the best dad he can be.

Following a cabinet reshuffle, Zander McGurk breezes into a new job with big plans for Scotland's police operation. The straight-talking go-getter promises the Chief a bigger budget so long as he trims the fat from his force. Miekelson vows to step up and act as the Ozempic of spending. However, he soon discovers that getting with McGurk's programme means ditching the department of DEI. If the Chief signs that Faustian pact, can he live with his conscience and the judgy comments of his daughter's book group?

Miekelson's eco-activist daughter Ellen's choice of vehicle offends the neighbourhood, and there is concern on the Crescent that her ankle tag doesn't fit the prestigious postcode. Meanwhile, a routine background check during the Chief's annual contract renewal sparks rumours surrounding his past. The suspicion is that the dirt that has been dug up stains an otherwise spotless career. Soon the gossip spreads closer to home and tosses petrol on an already inflammable situation with his neighbours. Is it all smoke without fire? Or is this the concluding cremation of the Chief's career?