scottish island crime novels

The weather is frequently a factor. The cold, windy, and often rainy conditions can create a moody and atmospheric backdrop for the crimes. Also, the local culture and traditions are intertwined with the plot. In some novels, old superstitions or fishing traditions can be linked to the crime or the investigation.

Ann Cleeves' 'Raven Black' is also set in the Shetland Islands. It's a great read that delves into the lives of the islanders as well as a murder mystery. The descriptions of the islands add a lot to the atmosphere of the story.

Scottish crime novels often have a strong sense of place. The settings, like the gloomy streets of Edinburgh or the wild landscapes of the Highlands, play a big role. They also tend to have complex characters, such as the troubled detectives. And the themes usually involve the darker aspects of human nature and society, like corruption and family secrets.

The plots in Scottish crime novels are usually intricate. There are often multiple layers of mystery, and the authors are skilled at misdirection. They also frequently incorporate elements of Scottish culture, such as the influence of the clans or the country's religious history, into the fabric of the stories, making them unique and engaging.

One of the best is 'The Rebus Series' by Ian Rankin. These novels feature the complex character of Inspector Rebus and are set against the backdrop of Edinburgh. Another great one is 'Tartan Noir' which is known for its gritty and dark portrayals of crime in Scotland. And 'Case Histories' by Kate Atkinson also stands out, with its engaging mystery plots and well - drawn characters.

Often, they use the Scottish setting as a key element. The gloomy and sometimes harsh Scottish landscapes add to the mood of the crime stories. For instance, in Ian Rankin's novels, Edinburgh's alleys and old buildings create a sense of mystery.

Sure. 'Sunset Song' by Lewis Grassic Gibbon, while not strictly a pure crime novel, has elements of the hardships and conflicts that could be related to crime in a rural Scottish setting. Then there's 'The Blackhouse' by Peter May. It's set in the Outer Hebrides and has a great mystery element. Also, Val McDermid's novels, like 'Wire in the Blood', are quite popular in the Scottish crime genre. Her stories often have a psychological depth to the crimes.

Many Scottish crime authors are great at creating complex and flawed characters. These characters, whether they are the detectives or the criminals, have deep backstories and motives that are slowly revealed throughout the novels. For instance, in Ian Rankin's work, Rebus is a character with his own demons and a past that colors his approach to solving crimes. Also, Scottish crime novels frequently incorporate elements of Scottish culture, such as local dialects, traditions, and social issues. This gives the stories a unique flavor and makes them stand out from crime novels set in other locations.

Yes. 'The Coffin Trail' by Martin Edwards is a wonderful Scottish crime novel. It has a great mystery at its core. 'The Lamplighter' by D. K. Wilson is also worth reading. It's set in a Scottish village and has a very atmospheric feel. And 'The Hanging Shed' by Gordon Ferris, which is full of suspense and has a great plot that unfolds in the Scottish landscape.

One common theme is the dark underbelly of Scottish cities. These novels often explore the seedy side of places like Glasgow or Edinburgh, showing crime and corruption.