Ian Rankin - Author
Ian Rankin was born in the Kingdom of Fife in 1960, Ian Rankin graduated from the University of Edinburgh in 1982, and then spent three years writing novels when he was supposed to be working towards a PhD in Scottish Literature. His first Rebus novel was published in 1987, and the Rebus books are now translated into thirty-six languages and are bestsellers worldwide. Ian Rankin has been elected a Hawthornden Fellow, and is also a past winner of the Chandler-Fulbright Award. He is the recipient of four Crime Writers' Association Dagger Awards including the prestigious Diamond Dagger in 2005. In 2004, Ian won America's celebrated Edgar Award for Resurrection Men. He has also been shortlisted for the Anthony Award in the USA, won Denmark's Palle Rosenkrantz Prize, the French Grand Prix du Roman Noir and the Deutscher Krimipreis. Ian Rankin is also the recipient of honorary degrees from the universities of Abertay, St Andrews, Edinburgh, Hull and the Open University.A contributor to BBC2's Newsnight Review, he also presented his own TV series, Ian Rankin's Evil Thoughts. Rankin is a number one bestseller in the UK and has received the OBE for services to literature, opting to receive the prize in his home city of Edinburgh, where he lives with his partner and two sons.
Author photo © Hamish Brown
1: KNOTS AND CROSSES - the novel which first introduced John Rebus. Year 10: BLACK AND BLUE - the breakthrough novel, winner of the CWA Gold Dagger. Year 20: EXIT MUSIC - where Rebus retires...but will he ever be able to leave it all behind?
A truly fabulous blast of crime fiction. John Rebus continues to ignore retirement, and an unsolved case haunts his thoughts as he shoulders his way into the middle of a current investigation. Ok, hands up, I confess… this is my first meeting with John Rebus! I will admit to being slightly wary of jumping into the deep end of such a successful and prevalent series, yet immediately felt at home and now can't wait to work my way through the others. John Rebus may wobble on the scales of law and order, but his core sense of integrity, tenacity, and grit, ensure he is someone you would most definitely want on your side. I found myself well and truly caught in the snare of Ian Rankin’s writing; this was so easy to read, yet the story coiled, twisted, and thrashed its way through feuds, murder, and some seriously crooked minds. ‘Rather Be the Devil’ is a compelling, gutsy, proper crime fix, and I wholeheartedly recommend it. ~ Liz Robinson June 2017 Book of the Month.
A truly fabulous blast of crime fiction. John Rebus continues to ignore retirement, and an unsolved case haunts his thoughts as he shoulders his way into the middle of a current investigation. Ok, hands up, I confess… this is my first meeting with John Rebus! I will admit to being slightly wary of jumping into the deep end of such a successful and prevalent series, yet immediately felt at home and now can't wait to work my way through the others. John Rebus may wobble on the scales of law and order, but his core sense of integrity, tenacity, and grit, ensure he is someone you would most definitely want on your side. I found myself well and truly caught in the snare of Ian Rankin’s writing; this was so easy to read, yet the story coiled, twisted, and thrashed its way through feuds, murder, and some seriously crooked minds. ‘Rather Be the Devil’ is a compelling, gutsy, proper crime fix, and I wholeheartedly recommend it. ~ Liz Robinson
Some cases never leave you. For John Rebus, forty years may have passed, but the death of beautiful, promiscuous Maria Turquand still preys on his mind. Murdered in her hotel room on the night a famous rock star and his entourage were staying there, Maria's killer has never been found. Meanwhile, the dark heart of Edinburgh remains up for grabs. A young pretender, Darryl Christie, may have staked his claim, but a vicious attack leaves him weakened and vulnerable, and an inquiry into a major money laundering scheme threatens his position.
If you were a concerned fan dubious how Rebus was going to fare in retirement, fear not for although in Standing in Another Man’s Grave, he and the familiar surrounding characters had to get their heads round their new positions and in Saints of the Shadow Bible they were still getting used to their new lives, now in this one they have definitely arrived. This is back up to full standard. Taking risks and going his own way as usual, Rebus still doesn’t mind how unpopular he might be with those in authority. In fact he treats his actions as confirmation that his way works, but he would, wouldn’t he? The story is woven around two old gangsters and an up and coming Edinburgh criminal. It is littered with red herrings and twists which are hugely enjoyable plus some more personal stuff especially about Clarke and Fox of the local CID which will delight fans. Excellent. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Hands in his pockets, Rebus turned to face Cafferty. They were old men now, similar builds, similar backgrounds. Sat together in a pub, the casual onlooker might mistake them for pals who'd known one another since school. But their history told a different story. Retirement doesn't suit John Rebus. He wasn't made for hobbies, holidays or home improvements. Being a cop is in his blood. So when DI Siobhan Clarke asks for his help on a case, Rebus doesn't need long to consider his options. Clarke's been investigating the death of a senior lawyer whose body was found along with a threatening note. On the other side of Edinburgh, Big Ger Cafferty - Rebus's long-time nemesis - has received an identical note and a bullet through his window. Now it's up to Clarke and Rebus to connect the dots and stop a killer. Meanwhile, DI Malcolm Fox joins forces with a covert team from Glasgow who are tailing a notorious crime family. There's something they want, and they'll stop at nothing to get it.
Over the years, Ian Rankin has amassed an incredible portfolio of short stories. Published in crime magazines, composed for events, broadcast on radio, they all share the best qualities of his phenomenally popular Rebus novels. Brought together for the first time, and including brand new material, this is the ultimate Rebus short-story collection and a must-have book for crime lovers and for Ian's millions of fans alike. No Rankin aficionado can go without it.
Rebus is back on the force after his time in cold case investigations but he has been demoted to Detective Sergeant. He has also mellowed, lost his spark so do not look for the old Rebus, just enjoy Rankin’s involved, many-threaded plot. We do see the old Rebus resurface towards the end when he uses old methods to solve one of his old cases involving the death of a prisoner some 30 years ago. Before that we have an angry Rebus discovering too much, plus having a no vote for the referendum, which is interesting. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Rebus is back on the force after his time in cold case investigations but he has been demoted to Detective Sergeant. He has also mellowed, lost his spark so do not look for the old Rebus, just enjoy Rankin’s involved, many-threaded plot. We do see the old Rebus resurface towards the end when he uses old methods to solve one of his old cases involving the death of a prisoner some 30 years ago. Before that we have an angry Rebus discovering too much, plus having a no vote for the referendum, which is interesting.
November 2013 Book of the Month. Rankin recently announced he is taking a year off so this is your last fix for a bit. Rebus is back on the force after his time in cold case investigations but he has been demoted to Detective Sergeant. He has also mellowed, lost his spark so do not look for the old Rebus, just enjoy Rankin’s involved, many-threaded plot. We do see the old Rebus resurface towards the end when he uses old methods to solve one of his old cases involving the death of a prisoner some 30 years ago. Before that we have an angry Rebus discovering too much, plus having a no vote for the referendum, which is interesting.
Recently retired, Rebus is working in a small unit which looks into old, unsolved cases. Still famed for his unconventional methods and still heavily smoking and drinking, he remains in contact with old comrades and villains alike. Fans will know Siobhan Clarke and Big Ger Cafferty, to name a couple, newcomers will be happy just following along. The story involves several missing girls who may or may not be dead. After Rebus retired in Exit Music and Rankin delved into new areas he developed one Malcolm Fox (The Complaints) whom he now ingeniously introduces here into a minor role which we just know will be developed in future books. Interestingly the cold case being investigated is in the north so taking Rebus out of Edinburgh. ~ Sarah Broadhurst Ian Rankin says of the return of Rebus: “I felt there was unfinished business between the two of us. He had never really gone away but was working for Edinburgh's cold case unit. And I knew I had a story that was a perfect fit for him.” Longlisted for the Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year 2014. June 2013 Book of the Month.
Shortlisted for the Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year 2010. CWA Hall of Fame Dagger 2009. This was Rankin's first book since we said a sad farewell to Rebus (before his welcome return) and was also Ian Rankin’s first stand alone novel for a decade. Don’t worry, you will not be disappointed as all of Rankin’s skill, imagination and clever plotting is set out in a brilliant story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Look out for the TV adaptation of Doors Open starring Stephen Fry which is due to be shown on ITV1 on 23 December 2012. And keep your eyes peeled for a possible cameo appearance by Ian Rankin himself in one of the auction scenes!
November 2012 Book of the Month. The brand new crime novel from number one bestselling author Ian Rankin. Since Rebus’ first appearance in 1987, the novels have gained global acclaim, become international bestsellers and won Ian Rankin numerous awards. Rebus’ retirement in 2007 brought a huge outcry from his fans and hit headlines across the UK. His return was one of the most hotly anticipated literary events of 2012. Ian Rankin says of the return of Rebus: “I felt there was unfinished business between the two of us. He had never really gone away but was working for Edinburgh's cold case unit. And I knew I had a story that was a perfect fit for him.”
June 2012 Book of the Month. Rankin is synonymous with crime and Edinburgh and having decided to end it with his long-time protagonist – Rebus – he has successfully created a new one in the form of Edinburgh copper, Malcolm Fox. He’s very different from Rebus in many ways and that’s a good thing and coupled with that, Rankin’s ability to portray Edinburgh remains undiminished and his cleverly wrought plots really get under your skin. The first featuring Fox was The Complaints – maximum stars from us – and now Fox who is part of the unpopular Complaints & Conduct department of the police force that roots out corruption in the force and investigates suspect officers is on to his next case in which he must fight for his professional and personal life. Shortlisted for the Galaxy Crime & Thriller of the Year Award 2011. Rebus is back!After an absence of five years Rebus will be returning in a new novel, Standing in Another Man's Grave, which will be published in November 2012.
A Special Edition of Black and Blue by Ian Rankin to celebrate Orion's 20th anniversary. Rebus has everything against him: an internal investigation, a possible miscarriage of justice and a pretty tough Glasgow gangster. Enough to try the patience of any cop, but when it’s the curmudgeon Rebus he really has to tread a fine line. Another excellent read. This book won a well-deserved Golden Dagger Award (Best Mystery as awarded by the Crime Writers Association of Britain).
December 2011 MEGA Book of the Month. Shortlisted for the Galaxy Crime & Thriller of the Year Award 2011. Rankin is synonymous with crime and Edinburgh and having decided to end it with his long-time protagonist – Rebus – he has successfully created a new one in the form of Edinburgh copper, Malcolm Fox. He’s very different from Rebus in many ways and that’s a good thing and coupled with that, Rankin’s ability to portray Edinburgh remains undiminished and his cleverly wrought plots really get under your skin. The first featuring Fox was The Complaints – maximum stars from us – and now Fox who is part of the unpopular Complaints & Conduct department of the police force that roots out corruption in the force and investigates suspect officers is on to his next case in which he must fight for his professional and personal life.
August 2010 Book of the Month. The complaints of the title is the ‘Complaints and Conduct Department’, a section of the police force which investigates the behaviour of other police officers. Rankin’s new character, Malcolm Fox, works for them. He’s very different from Rebus, being a moral and clean-living man but he is equally fascinating.Rankin’s gritty Edinburgh is still central, and there is an evil, corrupt undercurrent to yet another brilliant police procedure thriller from a master of the genre. If you haven’t tried Rankin, this is an excellent place to start. Comparison: Colin Dexter, Peter James, Mark Billingham.
This is an unabridged audiobook title. Rankin has moved on to a new protagonist in the form of Malcolm Fox and has set him up in a department which bodes well for what we are sure will be terrific, future plotlines, the Complaints and Conduct department - the police who police the police. If you were worried Rankin wouldn't maintain the standard of his Rebus novels then rest assured he hasn't let us down. Brilliant characters and plots continue, all set in his beloved Edinburgh. This is an Unabridged audiobook title, which includes every word that you would otherwise find in the printed edition. Don’t forget, if the story was meant to be shorter the author would have written less! Click here to take a peek at our selection of Unabridged audiobooks. You might be interested to know the abridged audiobook version runs to only 57% of the full length.
Featured on The Book Show on Sky Arts on 5 November 2009. Rankin has moved on to a new protagonist in the form of Malcolm Fox and has set him up in a department which bodes well for what we are sure will be terrific, future plotlines, the Complaints and Conduct department - the police who police the police. If you were worried Rankin wouldn't maintain the standard of his Rebus novels then rest assured he hasn't let us down. Brilliant characters and plots continue, all set in his beloved Edinburgh.
Shortlisted for the Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year 2010. CWA Hall of Fame Dagger 2009. This is the first book since we said a sad farewell to Rebus and is Ian Rankin’s first stand alone novel for a decade. Don’t worry you will not be disappointed as all of Rankin’s skill, imagination and clever plotting is set out in a brilliant story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
This is the first book since we said a sad farewell to Rebus and is Ian Rankin’s first stand alone novel for a decade. Don’t worry you will not be disappointed as all of Rankin’s skill, imagination and clever plotting is set out in a brilliant story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Winner of Crime Thriller of the Year at the British Book Awards 2005. Very much the thinking man’s mystery, this novel is dominated by racial issues, the thugs and the refugees just outside Edinburgh. It is peppered with a variety of nasty crimes, has Rebus desk-less, further proof of his superiors edging him out, and his side-kick Siobhan becoming that little bit more important to him … but when will they become lovers? This is not his best, but second-best is still great. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Rankin is one of the masters of crime fiction and Knots and Crosses is where it all began. Here, we are introduced to John Rebus, SAS paratrooper turned Detective Sergeant. When young girls start disappearing around Edinburgh he is called in to investigate, but the case becomes far more personal than he could ever have imagined as he is sent clues in form of knoted string and matchsticks. Brilliantly plotted and the backdrop of Edinburgh plays as big a part in the novel as any of the characters. I read it in one sitting. Highly recommended. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Rebus has everything against him, an internal investigation, a possible miscarriage of justice and a pretty tough Glasgow gangster. Enough to try the patience of any cop, but when it’s the curmudgeon Rebus he really has to tread a fine line. Another excellent read. This book won a well-deserved Golden Dagger Award (Best Mystery as awarded by the Crime Writers Association of Britain).
Gregor Jack MP is discovered in a brothel during a police raid and the tabloids have a field day. It seems he was framed … then his wife is murdered. This takes Rebus away from his gritty Edinburgh into Fife and the highlands as he investigates the world of a successful man. But human failings also happen outside a city, infidelity, jealousy, lust are all explored along with loyalty and respect as Gregor Jack’s chums stick up for him. So Rebus can do ‘upmarket’ too, which is interesting but not as enthralling as underbelly Edinburgh in my mind. This is not a place to start your Rebus trip.
The hunt for the killer of a junkie whose body is found in a deserted building in a very rough housing estate is the backdrop to the second Rebus mystery. He is now an Inspector and courted by Edinburgh’s elite. So Rankin gives us two sides of a great city, although it is the dark side that pushes through this chilling novel and its complex plot. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Rankin, himself now in London, brings Rebus down “to suffer” but basically because he is supposedly an ‘expert’ in catching serial killers. This particular one leaves teeth marks on his victims and hence is nicknamed ‘Wolfman’ which was the original title of the novel. London does not suit Rebus and his relationship with the Met is interesting, lots of Scottish-English rivalry/prejudice and not nearly as much feeling for place that the Edinburgh novels have … But the plot is great, fast and twisted, well written and compulsive as ever with another bruising love affair but sadly to my mind a rather lame ending. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Undeterred by pressure from above to drop a sensitive case, Rebus unearths dirty dealings and conspiracy within many official departments. Along the way we find a tender side to our spiky cop in a novel that eventually brings him a little closer to his estranged daughter. Although his drinking problem is on the increase, this complicated, unhappy fellow, who is not doing too well, demands our sympathy, or at least mine. The blending of political corruption and the development of Scotland’s economy is fascinating. A really good one. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Full of plot, incidents, twists and turns. At its core is gang warfare, a Nazi war criminal and Rebus struggling with his demon drink and the memory of his daughter. Edinburgh, of course, is at the centre of it all. It is one of his best, complicated, clever and very satisfying.
The Black Book of the title belongs to a brutally attacked colleague and contains baffling coded secrets which Rebus must obviously solve. In a convoluted plot of Edinburgh’s low life we meet arch villain “Big Ger” for the first time and discover his protection racket. This is definitely Edinburgh’s dark side … brilliantly revealed. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
A paedophile taking pictures of children at Edinburgh’s Zoo speaks of trouble to Rebus, but it seems others think not. Dilemma. Rankin is so good at throwing up social issues, nutty problems and tricky situations. This is littered with them, as it is with different story lines and references to past cases. It’s beautifully done, intriguing, tantalising but for those not in the ‘know’ it’s not distracting. Not as dark as most, this fairly rips along, it’s difficult to put down.
Rebus continues to grow as a character as we spend more time with him. Here his ex-SAS experience is called on in a case that starts at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and swings from the country to Belfast and back. Heavy on the Catholic/Protestant Irish question and rich in low-life, this gives us a mass of plot, Big Ger (from The Black Book) escaped from prison and very dangerous, and a whole lot more to add to our respect for this troubled, unconventional detective.
Don’t start your Rebus experience here for this is too full of his despair and failings for you to fully appreciate the man. You need to know him better to get the most out of this. If you do know him then this is terrific. At last his patience has snapped and as a result he is sent for retraining. Now his colleagues are also all officers with attitude problems, some pretty bad, and this makes for an extraordinary tale of good cop/bad cop, but it is for the real fan, not for the casual crime reader. ~ Sarah Broadhurst Barry Forshaw on Ian Rankin and Bill James... Ian Rankin is one of the UK’s bestselling British crime writers. Aficionados admire the gritty, socially committed toughness of his books, along with their vividly realised sense of place. And these are exactly the qualities that may be found in the work of the veteran Bill James, whose astonishing consistency over many years is a continuing cause for admiration. And, like Rankin, James has few equals when it comes to memorable, highly individual dialogue. Fans of Rankin’s Rebus novels – including Resurrection Men – will relish Bill James’ Harpur and Iles novels: start with You'd Better Believe It.
Revolving around the new Parliament building and early dark secrets, this has seemingly unconnected cases building to a wonderful, convoluted tale of corruption and greed.
Our curmudgeon, with bandaged hands and his bad attitude against authority, particularly his superiors, makes him a prime suspect for a particular case of arson and surprisingly his past comes back to haunt him when there is a shooting in a school which looks like the work of a crazed ex-SAS member. All is made worse by army investigators. With its red-herrings and diversions, this is another excellent yarn. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Winner of Crime Thriller of the Year at the Galaxy British Book Awards 2007.A very different Rebus. The darkness and aggressive atmosphere of previous books is much lighter and Rebus himself is a softer, much more sympathetic person – except in his approach to ‘authority’ which has always appeared as much the enemy as the criminals. Siobhan Clarke partners him here and this time has an almost equal share of the book. I had difficulty putting this one down, it is absolutely gripping.
All the way through this book the overwhelming feeling is the pathos of Rebus’ lonely life and with only ten days to retirement, what will he do, for this is farewell to Rebus. It is also another brilliant, atmospheric tale with Rebus annoying his superiors, going off at a tangent and facing his old nemesis, Big Ger, again. As always there is a twist in the end and, after the final results, finishes with a cliff hanger! Rebus will be sadly missed. The lonely, difficult, drinking, smoking character will leave a large hole, but this is a great farewell. ~ Sarah Broadhurst Shortlisted for the Crime Thriller of the Year Award at the Galaxy British Book Awards 2008.
Shortlisted for the Crime Thriller of the Year Award at the Galaxy British Book Awards 2008.All the way through this book the overwhelming feeling is the pathos of Rebusâ lonely life and with only ten days to retirement, what will he do, for this is farewell to Rebus. It is also another brilliant, atmospheric tale with Rebus annoying his superiors, going off at a tangent and facing his old nemesis, Big Ger, again. As always there is a twist in the end and, after the final results, finishes with a cliff hanger! Rebus will be sadly missed. The lonely, difficult, drinking, smoking character will leave a large hole, but this is a great farewell.
All the way through this book the overwhelming feeling is the pathos of Rebus’ lonely life and with only ten days to retirement, what will he do, for this is farewell to Rebus. It is also another brilliant, atmospheric tale with Rebus annoying his superiors, going off at a tangent and facing his old nemesis, Big Ger, again. As always there is a twist in the end and, after the final results, finishes with a cliff hanger! Rebus will be sadly missed. The lonely, difficult, drinking, smoking character will leave a large hole, but this is a great farewell.
All the way through this book the overwhelming feeling is the pathos of Rebus’ lonely life and with only ten days to retirement, what will he do, for this is farewell to Rebus. It is also another brilliant, atmospheric tale with Rebus annoying his superiors, going off at a tangent and facing his old nemesis, Big Ger, again. As always there is a twist in the end and, after the final results, finishes with a cliff hanger! Rebus will be sadly missed. The lonely, difficult, drinking, smoking character will leave a large hole, but this is a great farewell. Abridged audiobook edition. Read James Macpherson. 6 CDs Running Time: 7 hours
An audiobook edition of the 13th Rebus novel. Read by James Macpherson. Featuring a brand new introduction, read by Ian Rankin. Winner of the Silver Award for Best Abridgement at the 2003 Spoken Word Awards. Audiobook details: Abridged, 5 CDs, 6 hrs long.
An audiobook edition of the 12th Rebus novel. Read by James Macpherson. Featuring an exclusive introduction read by Ian Rankin.Audiobook details: Abridged, 5 CDs, 6 hrs long.
An audiobook edition of the 11th Rebus novel. Read by James Macpherson. Featuring an exclusive introduction read by Ian Rankin.Audiobook details: Abridged, 6 CDs, 7 hrs long.
A simplistic plot, the conclusion easily guessed but you need to start here to better know Detective Sergeant John Rebus. A spate of murders, anonymous letters and a blanked-out past which his brother helps him ‘reliveâ, form the core to the first in what will become a riveting series. Actually you could start with The Black Book but if you do then I urge you to backtrack at some point to complete the canvas. Rankinâs publisher, Orion has decided to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Rebus by republishing Knots and Crosses in a collectorsâ edition in hardcover at the original published price of £10.95. So for a bit of history, 20 years on why not take the plunge and spoil yourself with this beautiful gift hardback.
A 20th anniversary audiobook edition of the 1st Rebus novel. Read by Bill Paterson and featuring an exclusive introduction read by Ian Rankin. Find out how it all began. Audiobook details: Abridged, 3CDs, 3.5 hours long.
An audiobook edition of the 6th Rebus novel. Read by James MacPherson. Featuring an exclusive introduction read by Ian Rankin.Audiobook details: Abridged, 3 CDs, 3.3 hrs long.
Winner of Crime Thriller of the Year at the Galaxy British Book Awards 2007.A very different Rebus. The darkness and aggressive atmosphere of previous books is much lighter and Rebus himself is a softer, much more sympathetic person – except in his approach to ‘authorityâ which has always appeared as much the enemy as the criminals. Siobhan Clarke partners him here and this time has an almost equal share of the book. I had difficulty putting this one down, it is absolutely gripping. This title is also available as an Audiobook in CD format.Exclusive to Lovereading - click here to see Ian Rankin talking about this novel
An audiobook edition of the 16th Rebus novel. Read by James Macpherson. Audiobook details: Abridged, 6 CDs, 7 hrs.
An audiobook edition of Eleven Inspector Rebus Mysteries. Read by James Macpherson. Audiobook details: Abridged, 5 CDs, 6 hrs.
This is not a Rebus detective story, in fact it is Rankin’s first novel so fascinating for his fans to see how he has developed. It’s a strange book of relationships, local feuds, suspicion and the search for happiness, many themes he has developed over the years. He introduces it himself. This title is also available as an Audio book in CD or Audio Cassette format.Similar this month: None but try Natasha Cooper.Comparison: Denise Mina, Quintin Jardine, Sarah Rayne.
An audiobook edition of the 2nd Rebus novel. Read by Bill Paterson.Audiobook details: Abridged, 3CDs, 3 hrs long.
A highly atmospheric guide to the locations used for his crime novels and as such also an intriguing glimpse into the author’s life and mind. I found it fascinating. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
An audiobook edition of the 8th Rebus novel. Read by James Macpherson. Audiobook details: Abridged, 3 CDs, 3.4 hrs long.
For the first time, Ian Rankin has written his personal guide through the places in Scotland that have provided him with the backdrops for the thrilling events in the Inspector Rebus novels. This CD is packaged in a special collectors' box with a 32-page leaflet showing selected images from the book.Audiobook details: Abridged, 3 CDs, 3 hrs long.
Internet role playing lies at the heart of this stunning novel, one of his best. The Rosslyn Chapel makes a brief appearance, the falls being close by, and Rankin’s consummate plotting is used to its full. This is wonderful stuff, interestingly without the large development of Rebus’ personal problems that more of the other books include.
In this collection of twelve Inspector Rebus mysteries he investigates the hanging of a student actor during the Festival, an arson attack on a bird watcher and the witnessing of an apparent miracle...
An audiobook edition of the 5th Rebus novel. Read by James MacPherson. Audiobook details: Abridged, 3CDs, 3 hrs long.
An audiobook edition of the 10th Rebus novel. Read by Bill Paterson. Audiobook details: Abridged, 3 CDs, 3 hrs long.
An audiobook edition of the 9th Rebus novel. Read by Bill Paterson. Audiobook details: Abridged, 3 CDs, 3.4 hrs long.
This fourth Rebus omnibus comprises books ten, eleven and twelve in the Rebus series: Dead Souls, Set in Darkness and The Falls.
An audiobook edition of the 7th Rebus novel. Read by Bill Paterson.Audiobook details: Abridged, 3CDs, 3 hrs long.
An audiobook edition of the 15th Rebus novel. Read by James Macpherson. Audiobook details: Abridged, 5 CDs, 6 hrs long.
This may be a Rankin written 15 years ago and now being reissued but it is definitely worth the read. A stand alone spy thriller featuring Miles Flint a low level operative in the world of espionage, with a watching brief that satisfies him perfectly; he's not a man who craves more active duty. But IRA bombs are wreaking havoc on the British mainland, and Miles finds himself with all kinds of problems.. Miles is a distinctive and conflict-filled protagonist--very different from Rebus, though sharing a messy private life--and the action is handled with pulse-racing panache. This title is also available as an Audiobook, in CD format.
An audiobook edition of the 3rd Rebus novel. Read by James Macpherson.Audiobook details: Abridged, 3CDs, 3 hrs long.
This third Rebus omnibus comprises books seven, eight and nine in the Rebus series: Let it Bleed, Black & Blue and The Hanging Garden.
An audiobook edition of the 14th Rebus novel. Read by James Macpherson. Audiobook details: Abridged, 6CDs, 6.7 hrs long.
Winner of the Gold Award for best crime/thriller at the 2003 Spoken Word Awards. An audiobook edition of the 4th Rebus novel. Read by James MacPherson.Audiobook details: Abridged, 5 CDs, 6.5 hrs long.
The second Rebus omnibus comprising books four, five and six in the Rebus series - Strip Jack, The Black Book and Mortal Clauses.
The first Rebus omnibus comprising books one, two and three in the Rebus series - Knots & Crosses, Hide & Seek and Tooth & Nail.
The iconic Ian Rankin returns with a new Detective John Rebus novel - this year's essential must-read bestseller. * * * * * IN A HOUSE OF LIES...Everyone has something to hide A missing private investigator is found, locked in a car hidden deep in the woods. Worse still - both for his family and the police - is that his body was in an area that had already been searched. Everyone has secrets Detective Inspector Siobhan Clarke is part of a new inquiry, combing through the mistakes of the original case. There were always suspicions over how the investigation was handled and now - after a decade without answers - it's time for the truth. Nobody is innocent Every officer involved must be questioned, and it seems everyone on the case has something to hide, and everything to lose. But there is one man who knows where the trail may lead - and that it could be the end of him: John Rebus.
The iconic Ian Rankin returns with a new Detective John Rebus novel - this year's essential must-read bestseller. * * * * * IN A HOUSE OF LIES...Everyone has something to hide A missing private investigator is found, locked in a car hidden deep in the woods. Worse still - both for his family and the police - is that his body was in an area that had already been searched. Everyone has secrets Detective Inspector Siobhan Clarke is part of a new inquiry, combing through the mistakes of the original case. There were always suspicions over how the investigation was handled and now - after a decade without answers - it's time for the truth. Nobody is innocent Every officer involved must be questioned, and it seems everyone on the case has something to hide, and everything to lose. But there is one man who knows where the trail may lead - and that it could be the end of him: John Rebus.
A mugging gone wrong ... or murder? A dissident Russian poet is found dead - at the same time a delegation of Russian businessmen arrives in town. For some, it is crucial that the case is closed quickly, clinically and with the minimum of attention. But DI Rebus and DS Siobhan Clarke believe this is something more than a random attack - especially after a particularly nasty second killing. Then, a brutal and premeditated assault on a local gangster puts Rebus in the frame - and he may not survive long enough to solve anything...
A gripping original story for BBC Radio 4 by award-winning crime writer Ian Rankin, written for the landmark Radio 4 Book at Bedtime slot Saughton Prison, Edinburgh. 1962. Prison guard Thomas Scott watches over a condemned man sentenced to hang for the murder of his wife. His prisoner is a guilty man, that's for sure. William Telfer has done enough bad things in his life. And Scott has been in his job long enough to know that guilty men often proclaimed their innocence right up until the moment the noose was placed around their necks. But as they wait out the days until his execution, Scott begins to suspect that Telfer is innocent of this murder. An innocent man could be hanged by the neck until dead. And his jailer doesn't know what to do about it... To find out the truth, Scott must explore Edinburgh's darkest corners. And he is running out of time. From the best-selling author of the Rebus novels, this original story asks what you would do in the face of doubt, and in the search for justice. (This release contains additional material not included in the radio broadcast, plus an extended postscript.) Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes approx.
A gripping original story for BBC Radio 4 by award-winning crime writer Ian Rankin, written for the landmark Radio 4 Book at Bedtime slotSaughton Prison, Edinburgh. 1962. Prison guard Thomas Scott watches over a condemned man sentenced to hang for the murder of his wife. His prisoner is a guilty man, that's for sure. William Telfer has done enough bad things in his life. And Scott has been in his job long enough to know that guilty men often proclaimed their innocence right up until the moment the noose was placed around their necks. But as they wait out the days until his execution, Scott begins to suspect that Telfer is innocent of this murder.An innocent man could be hanged by the neck until dead. And his jailer doesn't know what to do about it...To find out the truth, Scott must explore Edinburgh's darkest corners. And he is running out of time.From the best-selling author of the Rebus novels, this original story asks what you would do in the face of doubt, and in the search for justice.(This release contains additional material not included in the radio broadcast, plus an extended postscript.)
At a private school, two teenagers are killed by an ex-Army loner who then turned the gun on himself. Finding the truth will take Detective Inspector John Rebus into the heart of a shattered community. Ex-Army himself, Rebus becomes fascinated by the killer, and finds he is not alone. It seems the man had friends in high places and enemies to spare. And Rebus has secrets of his own. He's fresh out of hospital, with newly bandaged hands, and won't say what happened. But after the death of a criminal he visited, who had been stalking DS Siobhan Clarke, Rebus is the prime suspect...
1: KNOTS AND CROSSES - the novel which first introduced John Rebus. Year 10: BLACK AND BLUE - the breakthrough novel, winner of the CWA Gold Dagger. Year 20: EXIT MUSIC - where Rebus retires...but will he ever be able to leave it all behind?
Some cases never leave you. For John Rebus, forty years may have passed, but the death of beautiful, promiscuous Maria Turquand still preys on his mind. Murdered in her hotel room on the night a famous rock star and his entourage were staying there, Maria's killer has never been found. Meanwhile, the dark heart of Edinburgh remains up for grabs. A young pretender, Darryl Christie, may have staked his claim, but a vicious attack leaves him weakened and vulnerable, and an inquiry into a major money laundering scheme threatens his position. Has old-time crime boss Big Ger Cafferty really given up the ghost, or is he biding his time until Edinburgh is once more ripe for the picking? In a tale of twisted power, deep-rooted corruption and bitter rivalries, Rather Be the Devil showcases Rankin and Rebus at their unstoppable best.
A truly fabulous blast of crime fiction. John Rebus continues to ignore retirement, and an unsolved case haunts his thoughts as he shoulders his way into the middle of a current investigation. Ok, hands up, I confess… this is my first meeting with John Rebus! I will admit to being slightly wary of jumping into the deep end of such a successful and prevalent series, yet immediately felt at home and now can't wait to work my way through the others. John Rebus may wobble on the scales of law and order, but his core sense of integrity, tenacity, and grit, ensure he is someone you would most definitely want on your side. I found myself well and truly caught in the snare of Ian Rankin’s writing; this was so easy to read, yet the story coiled, twisted, and thrashed its way through feuds, murder, and some seriously crooked minds. ‘Rather Be the Devil’ is a compelling, gutsy, proper crime fix, and I wholeheartedly recommend it. ~ Liz Robinson June 2017 Book of the Month.
Some cases never leave you.For John Rebus, forty years may have passed, but the death of beautiful, promiscuous Maria Turquand still preys on his mind. Murdered in her hotel room on the night a famous rock star and his entourage were staying there, Maria's killer has never been found.Meanwhile, the dark heart of Edinburgh remains up for grabs. A young pretender, Darryl Christie, may have staked his claim, but a vicious attack leaves him weakened and vulnerable, and an inquiry into a major money laundering scheme threatens his position. Has old-time crime boss Big Ger Cafferty really given up the ghost, or is he biding his time until Edinburgh is once more ripe for the picking?In a tale of twisted power, deep-rooted corruption and bitter rivalries, Rather Be the Devil showcases Rankin and Rebus at their unstoppable best.
Some cases never leave you. For John Rebus, forty years may have passed, but the death of beautiful, promiscuous Maria Turquand still preys on his mind. Murdered in her hotel room on the night a famous rock star and his entourage were staying there, Maria's killer has never been found. Meanwhile, the dark heart of Edinburgh remains up for grabs. A young pretender, Darryl Christie, may have staked his claim, but a vicious attack leaves him weakened and vulnerable, and an inquiry into a major money laundering scheme threatens his position. Has old-time crime boss Big Ger Cafferty really given up the ghost, or is he biding his time until Edinburgh is once more ripe for the picking? In a tale of twisted power, deep-rooted corruption and bitter rivalries, Rather be the Devil showcases Rankin and Rebus at their unstoppable best.
In the 1960s, the infamous Bible John terrorised Scotland when he murdered three women, taking three souvenirs. Thirty years later, a copycat is at work, dubbed Johnny Bible. DI John Rebus's unconventional methods have got him in trouble before - now he's taken away from the inquiry and sent to investigate the killing of an off-duty oilman. But when his case clashes head-on with the Johnny Bible killings, he finds himself in the glare of a fearful media, whilst under the scrutiny of an internal enquiry. Just one mistake is likely to mean losing his job - and quite possibly his life.
For recent college graduate Ronald Hastie, a job at the legendary Shakespeare and Company bookshop offers the perfect occupation during a summer abroad in Paris. Working part-time in exchange for room and board leaves plenty of freedom to explore the city once visited by his literary hero, Robert Louis Stevenson, and things only get better when he meets a collector who claims to have the original manuscripts of both the first draft of Jekyll and Hyde and the never-published The Travelling Companion (both thought to have been destroyed). Then Ron meets the man's mysterious assistant, and a reckless obsession stirs inside him. As the life he knew back home in Scotland fades from memory, he desperately seeks the secret lying within Stevenson's long-lost pages...
For recent college graduate Ronald Hastie, a job at the legendary Shakespeare and Company bookshop offers the perfect occupation during a summer abroad in Paris. Working part-time in exchange for room and board leaves plenty of freedom to explore the city once visited by his literary hero, Robert Louis Stevenson, and things only get better when he meets a collector who claims to have the original manuscripts of both the first draft of Jekyll and Hyde and the never-published The Travelling Companion (both thought to have been destroyed). Then Ron meets the man's mysterious assistant, and a reckless obsession stirs inside him. As the life he knew back home in Scotland fades from memory, he desperately seeks the secret lying within Stevenson's long-lost pages...
Hands in his pockets, Rebus turned to face Cafferty. They were old men now, similar builds, similar backgrounds. Sat together in a pub, the casual onlooker might mistake them for pals who'd known one another since school. But their history told a different story. Retirement doesn't suit John Rebus. He wasn't made for hobbies, holidays or home improvements. Being a cop is in his blood. So when DI Siobhan Clarke asks for his help on a case, Rebus doesn't need long to consider his options. Clarke's been investigating the death of a senior lawyer whose body was found along with a threatening note. On the other side of Edinburgh, Big Ger Cafferty - Rebus's long-time nemesis - has received an identical note and a bullet through his window. Now it's up to Clarke and Rebus to connect the dots and stop a killer. Meanwhile, DI Malcolm Fox joins forces with a covert team from Glasgow who are tailing a notorious crime family. There's something they want, and they'll stop at nothing to get it. It's a game of dog eat dog - in the city, as in the wild. EVEN DOGS IN THE WILD brings back Ian Rankin's greatest characters in a story exploring the darkest corners of our instincts and desires.
If you were a concerned fan dubious how Rebus was going to fare in retirement, fear not for although in Standing in Another Man’s Grave, he and the familiar surrounding characters had to get their heads round their new positions and in Saints of the Shadow Bible they were still getting used to their new lives, now in this one they have definitely arrived. This is back up to full standard. Taking risks and going his own way as usual, Rebus still doesn’t mind how unpopular he might be with those in authority. In fact he treats his actions as confirmation that his way works, but he would, wouldn’t he? The story is woven around two old gangsters and an up and coming Edinburgh criminal. It is littered with red herrings and twists which are hugely enjoyable plus some more personal stuff especially about Clarke and Fox of the local CID which will delight fans. Excellent. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Detective Inspector Siobhan Clarke is investigating the death of a senior lawyer during a robbery. But the case becomes more complex when a note is discovered, indicating that this may have been no random attack, and when local gangster Big Ger Cafferty receives an identical message, Clarke decides that the recently retired John Rebus may be able to help. He's the only man Cafferty will open up to, and together the two old adversaries might just stand a chance of saving Cafferty's skin. But a notorious family has arrived in Edinburgh, too, tailed by a team of undercover detectives. There's something they want, and they'll stop at nothing to get it. DI Malcolm Fox's job is to provide the undercover squad with local expertise, but he's soon drawn in too deep as the two cases look like colliding. And meantime, an anonymous killer stalks the night-time streets, focussed on revenge. It's a game of dog eat dog - in the city as in the wild. Even Dogs in the Wild brings back Ian Rankin's greatest characters in a story exploring the darkest corners of our instincts and desires. Read by James Macpherson
Hands in his pockets, Rebus turned to face Cafferty. They were old men now, similar builds, similar backgrounds. Sat together in a pub, the casual onlooker might mistake them for pals who'd known one another since school. But their history told a different story. Retirement doesn't suit John Rebus. He wasn't made for hobbies, holidays or home improvements. Being a cop is in his blood. So when DI Siobhan Clarke asks for his help on a case, Rebus doesn't need long to consider his options. Clarke's been investigating the death of a senior lawyer whose body was found along with a threatening note. On the other side of Edinburgh, Big Ger Cafferty - Rebus's long-time nemesis - has received an identical note and a bullet through his window. Now it's up to Clarke and Rebus to connect the dots and stop a killer. Meanwhile, DI Malcolm Fox joins forces with a covert team from Glasgow who are tailing a notorious crime family. There's something they want, and they'll stop at nothing to get it.
First performed at Edinburgh's Royal Lyceum Theatre, the first stage play from the SUNDAY TIMES No.1 bestselling author of SAINTS OF THE SHADOW BIBLE. It's been 25 years since Alfred Chalmers was convicted of the gruesome murder of four young women in Edinburgh. Isobel McArthur, Scotland's first Chief Constable, was the woman responsible for putting him behind bars, but the case has haunted her ever since. Now, with her retirement approaching, McArthur decides the time has come for answers. To uncover the truth, she revisits the case and interviews Chalmers for the first time in decades. But her decision rips opens old wounds and McArthur is soon caught up in a web of corruption, psychological mind-games and deceit that threatens not only her own life, but those of her fellow officers and even her own daughter. Tense, gritty and hard-hitting, DARK ROAD is the first ever stage play from bestselling crime writer Ian Rankin, co-written by the Royal Lyceum's Artistic Director Mark Thomson.
In this original short story from the New York Times bestselling thriller anthology FaceOff, internationally bestselling authors Ian Rankin and Peter James - along with their most famous characters, John Rebus and Roy Grace - team up for the first time ever. Detectives John Rebus and Roy Grace could not be more different. Different generations, different backgrounds, and not to mention the fact that they work 500 miles apart. The case that eventually brings them together centres on a crime that happened when Rebus was just a teenager in the 1960s - but it took place in Roy Grace's stomping grounds in Brighton, England, at a time when violence erupted between rival gangs known as Mods and Rockers. Now, a deathbed confession in in Edinburgh brings Rebus and Grace together to investigate a cold case with a shocking twist. For more exciting short story pairings, don't miss all eleven short stories in Face Off!
There is no detective like DI Rebus - brilliant, irascible and endlessly frustrating both to his friends and his long-suffering bosses. For over two decades he has walked through the dark places of Edinburgh . . . Now Rebus's life is revealed through this complete collection of stories, from his early days as a young DC in 'Dead and Buried' right up to the dramatic, but not quite final, retirement in 'The Very Last Drop'. This is the ultimate Ian Rankin treasure trove - a must for aficionados as well as a superb introduction to anyone looking to experience DI John Rebus, and the dark and twist-filled crimes he has to investigate, for the very first time.
In this short story from the thrilling anthology FaceOff, bestselling authors Ian Rankin and Peter Jamesalong with their most famous characters, John Rebus and Roy Graceteam up for the first time ever.Detectives John Rebus and Roy Grace could not be more different. Different generations, different backgrounds, and not to mention, they work 500 miles apart.The case that eventually brings them together centers on a crime that happened when Rebus was just a teenager in the 1960sbut it took place in Roy Graces stomping grounds in Brighton, England, at a time when violence erupted between rival gangs known as Mods and Rockers.Now, a deathbed confession in in Edinburgh brings Rebus and Grace together to investigate a cold case with a shocking twist.For more exciting pairs, check out all eleven stories in FaceOff!
Rebus is back on the force after his time in cold case investigations but he has been demoted to Detective Sergeant. He has also mellowed, lost his spark so do not look for the old Rebus, just enjoy Rankin’s involved, many-threaded plot. We do see the old Rebus resurface towards the end when he uses old methods to solve one of his old cases involving the death of a prisoner some 30 years ago. Before that we have an angry Rebus discovering too much, plus having a no vote for the referendum, which is interesting. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Drugs. Extortion. Slavery. Organized crime is fighting for a hold on John Rebuss peaceful Scotland. And when Rebus rescues a young Bosnian girl forced into prostitution, he breaks a policemans golden rule to never get personally involved in a case. Add to that the hunt for an elderly Nazi accused of slaughtering an entire French village, and Rebus wonders just how evil humans can beuntil his own daughter is mortally injured as a gangland warning for him to back off. Then even a dedicated cop like Rebus might make a deal with the devil to find the culprit. Not for justice. For revenge.
A murdered oil rig worker. A copycat serial killer dubbed Johnny Bible. And a reopened investigation that doesnt bode well for Detective John Rebus or his mentor, Inspector Lawson Geddes. Rebuss Scotland, along with his malt-soaked psyche, is riddled with trouble. Now hes got to tie up the loose ends if he wants to save his jobor live to see another dark Edinburgh day.Ian Rankins Scottish police procedurals are so gritty you have to pick the shards out of your teeth when you finish one, and Black and Blue is as flinty as they come. The New York Times Book ReviewReading [Ian Rankin] is like watching somebody juggle a dozen bottles of single malt without spilling a drop. Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
In Edinburgh you're never far from a peaceful spot, or from a hellish one either. Now, in the heart of summer, in the midst of a nationalist festival, Inspector John Rebus is on the murder case of a young man left hanging in a spot where his screams would never be heard. To find the victim's identityand his killerRebus searches from Edinburgh's most violent neighborhood to Belfast, Northern Irelandamongst petty thugs, gunrunners, and heavyweight criminals. But before Rebus can get to the truth, he's bloodied by the dream of society's madmenand staring into the glint of a killer's eyes.Once again, Ian Rankin has demonstrated his incredible crime writing skills in Mortal Causes.
In Rankin, you cannot go wrong. The Boston GlobeA superior series. The New York Times Book ReviewReading [Ian Rankin] is like watching somebody juggle a dozen bottles of single malt without spilling a drop. Kirkus Reviews (starred review)Five years ago, a mysterious fire burned Edinburghs seedy Central Hotel to ashes. Long-forgotten and unsolved, the case reappears when a charred bodywith a bullet in its headis found among the ruins. Inspector John Rebus knows that his superiors would prefer he leave things alone. He knows that part of the answer lies somewhere in a cryptic black notebook. And he knows that to solve the case, hell have to peel back layer after layer of unspeakable secrets to arrive at the truth.
A brilliant box set of the first ten Rebus novels.Collection comprises of: Knots Hide Tooth Strip Jack; The Black Book; Mortal Causes; Let it Bleed; Black The Hanging Garden; Dead Souls.
In a shadowy, crumbling Edinburgh housing development, a junkie lies dead of an overdose, his body surrounded by signs of Satanic worship. Inspector John Rebus could call it an accident. But wont. Now hes got to search the city, from the tunnels of its dark underbelly to the private sanctum of the upper crust, to find the perfect hiding place for a killer.Ian Rankin is up there among the best crime novelists at work today. Michael Connelly A superior series. The New York Times Book ReviewIan Rankin, you cannot go wrong. The Boston GlobeA novelist of great scope, depth, and power. Jonathan Kellerman
Detective John Rebuss city is being terrorized by a baffling series of murdersand hes tied to a maniac by an invisible knot of blood. As the ghoulish killings mount and the tabloid headlines scream, Rebus cannot stop the feverish shrieks from within his own mind. Because he isnt just one cop trying to catch a killerhes the man whos got all the pieces to the puzzle.Ian Rankin is up there among the best crime novelists at work today. Michael Connelly A superior series. The New York Times Book ReviewIan Rankin, you cannot go wrong. The Boston GlobeA novelist of great scope, depth, and power. Jonathan Kellerman
Recently retired, Rebus is working in a small unit which looks into old, unsolved cases. Still famed for his unconventional methods and still heavily smoking and drinking, he remains in contact with old comrades and villains alike. Fans will know Siobhan Clarke and Big Ger Cafferty, to name a couple, newcomers will be happy just following along. The story involves several missing girls who may or may not be dead. After Rebus retired in Exit Music and Rankin delved into new areas he developed one Malcolm Fox (The Complaints) whom he now ingeniously introduces here into a minor role which we just know will be developed in future books. Interestingly the cold case being investigated is in the north so taking Rebus out of Edinburgh. ~ Sarah Broadhurst Ian Rankin says of the return of Rebus: “I felt there was unfinished business between the two of us. He had never really gone away but was working for Edinburgh's cold case unit. And I knew I had a story that was a perfect fit for him.” Longlisted for the Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year 2014. June 2013 Book of the Month.
A series of seemingly random disappearances - stretching back to the millennium. A mother determined to find the truth. A retired cop desperate to get his old life back... It's been some time since Rebus was forced to retire, and he now works as a civilian in a cold-case unit. So when a long-dead case bursts back to life, he can't resist the opportunity to get his feet under the CID desk once more. But Rebus is as stubborn and anarchic as ever, and he quickly finds himself in deep with pretty much everyone, including DI Siobhan Clarke. All Rebus wants to do is uncover the truth. The big question is: can he be the man he once was and still stay on the right side of the law? Read by James Macpherson
June 2012 Book of the Month. Rankin is synonymous with crime and Edinburgh and having decided to end it with his long-time protagonist – Rebus – he has successfully created a new one in the form of Edinburgh copper, Malcolm Fox. He’s very different from Rebus in many ways and that’s a good thing and coupled with that, Rankin’s ability to portray Edinburgh remains undiminished and his cleverly wrought plots really get under your skin. The first featuring Fox was The Complaints – maximum stars from us – and now Fox who is part of the unpopular Complaints & Conduct department of the police force that roots out corruption in the force and investigates suspect officers is on to his next case in which he must fight for his professional and personal life. Shortlisted for the Galaxy Crime & Thriller of the Year Award 2011. Rebus is back!After an absence of five years Rebus will be returning in a new novel, Standing in Another Man's Grave, which will be published in November 2012.
Malcolm Fox and his team are back, investigating whether fellow cops covered up for Detective Paul Carter. Carter has been found guilty of misconduct, but what should be a simple job is soon complicated by a brutal murder and a weapon that should not even exist. A trail of revelations leads Fox back to 1985, a year of desperate unrest when letter-bombs and poisonous spores were sent to government offices, and kidnappings and murders were plotted. But while the body count rises the clock starts ticking, and a dramatic turn of events sees Fox in mortal danger. Read by Peter Forbes
The sixth novel featuring Inspector John Rebus, available for the first time as an e-book and with an exclusive introduction by author Ian Rankin.Inspector John Rebus hates the Edinburgh Festival. He especially hates that last Saturday night. He has spent years on the police force confronting it, avoiding it, and cursing it, but most of the time he still gets caught up in it. Nevertheless, this is an honored tradition of Scotland, and a happy one at that. But amid the blaring noise created by the music, laughter, and toasts of "e;Slainte"e; as glasses of whiskey are swilled, another traditionone older than music, happiness, and drink itselfhas traveled to Edinburgh and nested itself in the medieval quarter of Mary King's Close. There, beneath the streets of Edinburgh, Inspector Rebus finds the lifeless body of Billy Cunningham swinging from a butcher's hook and knows that his problems have only begun.When Big Ger Cafferty, the ruthless gangster whose sphere of influence extends well beyond the bars that the Inspector himself put him behind, discovers that Bill, his only son, has been brutally murdered, Rebus finds himself with more motivation than his duty can provide to find Billy's killer. But when the police pathologist reports that the young man was killed by professional hands, Rebus finds himself up against a force that could frighten Big Ger himself.
The second novel featuring Inspector John Rebus, available for the first time as an e-book and with an exclusive introduction by author Ian Rankin.A junkie, dead in an Edinburgh squat, the body laid out with ritual precision. A girl with a past, running wild and running scared.But who cares? These are the dregs, a squalid society of addicts and derelicts, people long since disconnected from a society that is preoccupied with the new businesses and the new homes bringing prosperity to a city concentrating on advertising its quality of life.Only Detective Inspector John Rebus senses something evil, something too dangerous to ignore that has to be investigated and brought up into the light. Something that may prove to be very closely connected indeed to the bright new world above. It is an investigation that will find him not just trying to solve a crime but fighting for his life.
The fifth novel featuring Inspector John Rebus, available for the first time as an e-book and with an exclusive introduction by author Ian Rankin.When the Central Hotel, a place of decidedly unsavory reputation, burned to the ground in a mysterious fire, the Edinburgh police were unable to disguise their delight. That is, until a body was found in the still-smoldering ashes, charred beyond all identification but with a bullet lodged in its skull. Now it's five years later and Inspector John Rebus is following any leads in a vicious off-duty ambush that has put one of his favorite junior officers into a coma.A cheap black notebook belonging to the wounded policeman contains a cryptic allusion to the almost-forgotten blaze, but crucial pieces of the puzzle obstinately refuse to fall into place. What could young Detective Sergeant Brian Holmes have learned to render him such a threat that he must be silenced at all costs? "e;The past is important,"e; Rebus hardly needs to remind himself, yet the secrets he persists in uncovering are buried in layer upon layer of sordid and evil lies.
What happens when a killer becomes the target...? A gripping tale from the No.1 bestselling author of THE COMPLAINTS. The death of a journalist from a single bullet to the heart makes for a dramatic story - but the twist in the tale is that this time, it's the man who fired the gun who's asking all the questions... The assassin, Michael Weston, knows he has carried out his assignment successfully. One mistake was enough, a long time ago, when a young girl had accidentally received the fatal bullet. Her father hired a PI named Hoffer to track him down. Every time Weston completed a job, Hoffer was not far behind. But why had the police been on the scene so quickly? Weston has to find out - even if it means coming face to face with Hoffer...
The horror has just begun... A brilliant thriller from the No.1 bestselling author of THE COMPLAINTS. It begins with a phone call. Gordon Reeve's brother has been found dead in his car in San Diego. The car was locked from the inside, a gun was in his hand. In the US to identify the body Gordon realises that his brother has been murdered. What's more, it's soon obvious that his own life is in danger. Once back in Scotland he finds out his home has been bugged by professionals. But Reeve is a professional too. Ex-SAS, he was half of a two-man unit with someone he came to fear, then to hate. It looks like his nemesis is back...
A classic Ian Rankin from the No.1 bestselling author of THE COMPLAINTS. Bombs are exploding in the streets of London, but life seems to have planted more subtle booby-traps for Miles Flint. Miles is a spy. His job is to watch and to listen, then to report back to his superiors, nothing more. The job, affording glimpses into the most private lives of his victims, appeals to Miles. He doesn't lust after promotion, and he doesn't want action. He wants, just for once, not to botch a case. Having lost one suspect - with horrific consequences - Miles becomes too involved with another, a young Irish woman. His marriage seems ready to crumble to dust. So does his home. But Miles is given one last chance for redemption - a trip to Belfast, which quickly becomes a flight of terror, murder and shocking discoveries. But can the voyeur survive in a world of violent action?
A brilliant thriller from the No.1 bestselling author of THE COMPLAINTS. Interpol have tried and failed to find the terrorist, Witch. Now the combined forces of Scotland Yard and MI5 must try the impossible to prevent a major international incident. Dominic Elder carries her autograph wherever he goes. Witch is his passion, his obsession. And being retired is no bar to his willingness to restart the hunt. MI5 know that the man who wrote the Witch file is the key to catching their quarry. But the truth isn't easy to spot. And it is only when an MI5 novice and his French counterpart piece together the smallest of clues, that Witch suddenly looks vulnerable...
August 2010 Book of the Month. The complaints of the title is the ‘Complaints and Conduct Department’, a section of the police force which investigates the behaviour of other police officers. Rankin’s new character, Malcolm Fox, works for them. He’s very different from Rebus, being a moral and clean-living man but he is equally fascinating.Rankin’s gritty Edinburgh is still central, and there is an evil, corrupt undercurrent to yet another brilliant police procedure thriller from a master of the genre. If you haven’t tried Rankin, this is an excellent place to start. Comparison: Colin Dexter, Peter James, Mark Billingham.
A colleague's suicide. Pedophiles. A missing child. A serial killer. Driven by instinct and experience, John Rebus searches for connections, against official skepticism. Soldiering through dank, desperate slums and the tony flats of the Scottish elite, Inspector Rebus uncovers a chain of crime, deceit, and hidden sins--knowing it's really himself he's trying to save.
Shortlisted for the Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year 2010. CWA Hall of Fame Dagger 2009. This is the first book since we said a sad farewell to Rebus and is Ian Rankin’s first stand alone novel for a decade. Don’t worry you will not be disappointed as all of Rankin’s skill, imagination and clever plotting is set out in a brilliant story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Internet role playing lies at the heart of this stunning novel, one of his best. The Rosslyn Chapel makes a brief appearance, the falls being close by, and Rankin’s consummate plotting is used to its full. This is wonderful stuff, interestingly without the large development of Rebus’ personal problems that more of the other books include.
Revolving around the new Parliament building and early dark secrets, this has seemingly unconnected cases building to a wonderful, convoluted tale of corruption and greed.
Winner of Crime Thriller of the Year at the British Book Awards 2005. Very much the thinking man’s mystery, this novel is dominated by racial issues, the thugs and the refugees just outside Edinburgh. It is peppered with a variety of nasty crimes, has Rebus desk-less, further proof of his superiors edging him out, and his side-kick Siobhan becoming that little bit more important to him … but when will they become lovers? This is not his best, but second-best is still great. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Our curmudgeon, with bandaged hands and his bad attitude against authority, particularly his superiors, makes him a prime suspect for a particular case of arson and surprisingly his past comes back to haunt him when there is a shooting in a school which looks like the work of a crazed ex-SAS member. All is made worse by army investigators. With its red-herrings and diversions, this is another excellent yarn. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
The hunt for the killer of a junkie whose body is found in a deserted building in a very rough housing estate is the backdrop to the second Rebus mystery. He is now an Inspector and courted by Edinburgh’s elite. So Rankin gives us two sides of a great city, although it is the dark side that pushes through this chilling novel and its complex plot. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Rankin is one of the masters of crime fiction and Knots and Crosses is where it all began. Here, we are introduced to John Rebus, SAS paratrooper turned Detective Sergeant. When young girls start disappearing around Edinburgh he is called in to investigate, but the case becomes far more personal than he could ever have imagined as he is sent clues in form of knoted string and matchsticks. Brilliantly plotted and the backdrop of Edinburgh plays as big a part in the novel as any of the characters. I read it in one sitting. Highly recommended. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Full of plot, incidents, twists and turns. At its core is gang warfare, a Nazi war criminal and Rebus struggling with his demon drink and the memory of his daughter. Edinburgh, of course, is at the centre of it all. It is one of his best, complicated, clever and very satisfying.
Rankin, himself now in London, brings Rebus down “to suffer” but basically because he is supposedly an ‘expert’ in catching serial killers. This particular one leaves teeth marks on his victims and hence is nicknamed ‘Wolfman’ which was the original title of the novel. London does not suit Rebus and his relationship with the Met is interesting, lots of Scottish-English rivalry/prejudice and not nearly as much feeling for place that the Edinburgh novels have … But the plot is great, fast and twisted, well written and compulsive as ever with another bruising love affair but sadly to my mind a rather lame ending. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Rebus continues to grow as a character as we spend more time with him. Here his ex-SAS experience is called on in a case that starts at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and swings from the country to Belfast and back. Heavy on the Catholic/Protestant Irish question and rich in low-life, this gives us a mass of plot, Big Ger (from The Black Book) escaped from prison and very dangerous, and a whole lot more to add to our respect for this troubled, unconventional detective.
Undeterred by pressure from above to drop a sensitive case, Rebus unearths dirty dealings and conspiracy within many official departments. Along the way we find a tender side to our spiky cop in a novel that eventually brings him a little closer to his estranged daughter. Although his drinking problem is on the increase, this complicated, unhappy fellow, who is not doing too well, demands our sympathy, or at least mine. The blending of political corruption and the development of Scotland’s economy is fascinating. A really good one. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Winner of Crime Thriller of the Year at the Galaxy British Book Awards 2007.A very different Rebus. The darkness and aggressive atmosphere of previous books is much lighter and Rebus himself is a softer, much more sympathetic person – except in his approach to ‘authority’ which has always appeared as much the enemy as the criminals. Siobhan Clarke partners him here and this time has an almost equal share of the book. I had difficulty putting this one down, it is absolutely gripping.
This is not a Rebus detective story, in fact it is Rankin’s first novel so fascinating for his fans to see how he has developed. It’s a strange book of relationships, local feuds, suspicion and the search for happiness, many themes he has developed over the years. He introduces it himself. This title is also available as an Audio book in CD or Audio Cassette format.Similar this month: None but try Natasha Cooper.Comparison: Denise Mina, Quintin Jardine, Sarah Rayne.
A paedophile taking pictures of children at Edinburgh’s Zoo speaks of trouble to Rebus, but it seems others think not. Dilemma. Rankin is so good at throwing up social issues, nutty problems and tricky situations. This is littered with them, as it is with different story lines and references to past cases. It’s beautifully done, intriguing, tantalising but for those not in the ‘know’ it’s not distracting. Not as dark as most, this fairly rips along, it’s difficult to put down.
The Black Book of the title belongs to a brutally attacked colleague and contains baffling coded secrets which Rebus must obviously solve. In a convoluted plot of Edinburgh’s low life we meet arch villain “Big Ger” for the first time and discover his protection racket. This is definitely Edinburgh’s dark side … brilliantly revealed. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Gregor Jack MP is discovered in a brothel during a police raid and the tabloids have a field day. It seems he was framed … then his wife is murdered. This takes Rebus away from his gritty Edinburgh into Fife and the highlands as he investigates the world of a successful man. But human failings also happen outside a city, infidelity, jealousy, lust are all explored along with loyalty and respect as Gregor Jack’s chums stick up for him. So Rebus can do ‘upmarket’ too, which is interesting but not as enthralling as underbelly Edinburgh in my mind. This is not a place to start your Rebus trip.
Don’t start your Rebus experience here for this is too full of his despair and failings for you to fully appreciate the man. You need to know him better to get the most out of this. If you do know him then this is terrific. At last his patience has snapped and as a result he is sent for retraining. Now his colleagues are also all officers with attitude problems, some pretty bad, and this makes for an extraordinary tale of good cop/bad cop, but it is for the real fan, not for the casual crime reader. ~ Sarah Broadhurst Barry Forshaw on Ian Rankin and Bill James... Ian Rankin is one of the UK’s bestselling British crime writers. Aficionados admire the gritty, socially committed toughness of his books, along with their vividly realised sense of place. And these are exactly the qualities that may be found in the work of the veteran Bill James, whose astonishing consistency over many years is a continuing cause for admiration. And, like Rankin, James has few equals when it comes to memorable, highly individual dialogue. Fans of Rankin’s Rebus novels – including Resurrection Men – will relish Bill James’ Harpur and Iles novels: start with You'd Better Believe It.
All the way through this book the overwhelming feeling is the pathos of Rebus’ lonely life and with only ten days to retirement, what will he do, for this is farewell to Rebus. It is also another brilliant, atmospheric tale with Rebus annoying his superiors, going off at a tangent and facing his old nemesis, Big Ger, again. As always there is a twist in the end and, after the final results, finishes with a cliff hanger! Rebus will be sadly missed. The lonely, difficult, drinking, smoking character will leave a large hole, but this is a great farewell. ~ Sarah Broadhurst Shortlisted for the Crime Thriller of the Year Award at the Galaxy British Book Awards 2008.
Miles Flint is a government spy who has been making some serious mistakes. His last assignment led to the death of a foreign official in London, and after getting too close to his current subject, he wound up in police custody. But something is wrong at the agency that has nothing to do with Miless errors. Why did his last suspect know more about Miless assignment than Miles did? Why have so many operatives recently resigned? Has the agency hired someone to watch him?Despite the Directors assurances, Miles begins his own internal investigation, to the dismay of his colleagues and even his wife. Then Miles is sent to Belfast to oversee the arrest of two suspected terrorists, a supposedly routine mission that only strengthens his darkest suspicions. Has the Director issued Miles his final assignment?Determined to discover the truth, Miles enters a dangerous world he normally only observeseven as it threatens his life at every turn. With the riveting suspense and razor-sharp dialogue that have made him an internationally renowned bestseller, Ian Rankin examines an ordinary man forced into extraordinary circumstances, and proves why he just keeps getting better and better (Michele Ross, Cleveland Plain Dealer ).From the Compact Disc edition.
Written specially for the World Book Day Quick Reads promotion. My dad used to say to me, 'Try to keep a cool head and a warm heart'. At least I think it was my dad. I don't really remember him. Gravy worked in the graveyard - hence the name. He was having a normal day until his friend Benjy turned up in a car Gravy didn't recognise. Benjy had a bullet hole in his chest, but lived just long enough to ask Gravy to hide him and look after his gun. Gravy had looked after things for Benjy before, but never a gun. When Gravy looked in the car he found blood, a balaclava and a bag stuffed with money. Gravy's not too bright but he wants to help his friend. So Gravy finds himself caught up in the middle of a robbery gone wrong, a woman who witnessed a murder, and some very unpleasant men who will do anything to get back the money Benjy stole...
The second Rebus omnibus comprising books four, five and six in the Rebus series - Strip Jack, The Black Book and Mortal Clauses.
From bestselling Ian Rankin, winner of the 1997 CWA GOLD DAGGER for fiction for BLACK & BLUE the three Jack Harvey novels, gathered together in one omnibus volume. WITCH HUNT, BLEEDING HEARTS, BLOOD HUNT: Three thrillers by mega-seller Ian Rankin, writing as Jack Harvey. 'Rankin's ability to create a credible character, delivering convincing dialogue to complement sinister and hard-hitting plots against vividly detailed atmosphere, is simply awesome' Time Out 'His fiction buzzes with energy. Essentially he is a romantic storyteller in the tradition of Robert Louis Stevenson. His prose is as vivid and terse as the next man's yet its flexibility and rhythm give it a potential for lyrical expression which is distinctively Rankin's own. Rankin controls the material with extraordinary authority and even delicacy. Rankin ranks alongside P.D. James and Michael Dibdin as Britain's finest detective novelist' -Scotland on Sunday 'Rankin's prose is understated, yet his canvas of Scotland's criminal underclass has a panoramic breadth. His ear for dialogue is as sharp as a switchblade. This is, quite simply, crime writing of the highest order' Daily Express
The first Rebus omnibus comprising books one, two and three in the Rebus series - Knots & Crosses, Hide & Seek and Tooth & Nail.
