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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
Private investigator Stuart Bloom was missing, presumed dead. Until now. His body is discovered in an abandoned car - in an area that had already been searched... Detective Inspector Siobhan Clarke combs through the mistakes of the original investigation. After a decade without answers, it's time for the truth. But it seems everyone involved with the case is hiding something. None more so than Siobhan's own mentor: former detective John Rebus. The only man who knows where the trail may lead - and that it could be the end of him. EVERYONE HAS SECRETS NOBODY IS INNOCENT IN A HOUSE OF LIES
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.
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 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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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).
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
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
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. Abridged audiobook edition. Read James Macpherson. 6 CDs Running Time: 7 hours
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.
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.
An audiobook edition of the 16th Rebus novel. Read by James Macpherson. Audiobook details: Abridged, 6 CDs, 7 hrs.
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 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.
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...
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.
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 CLASSIC LOST THRILLER FROM THE ICONIC NUMBER ONE BESTSELLER* * * * * It always starts with a small lie. That's how you stop noticing the bigger ones. After his friend suspects something strange going on at the launch facility where they both work - and then goes missing - Martin Hepton doesn't believe the official line of long-term sick leave ... Refusing to stop asking questions, he leaves his old life behind, aware that someone is shadowing his every move. The only hope he has is his ex-girlfriend Jill Watson - the only journalist who will believe his story. But neither of them can believe the puzzle they're piecing together - or just how shocking the secret is that everybody wants to stay hidden... A gripping, page-turning suspense masterclass - available in print for the first time in nearly thirty years. * * * * * 'Rankin is a master storyteller' Guardian 'Great fiction, full stop' The Times 'Ian Rankin is a genius' Lee Child 'One of Britain's leading novelists in any genre' New Statesman 'A virtuoso of the craft' Daily Mail 'Rankin is a phenomenon' Spectator 'Britain's No.1 crime writer' Mirror 'Quite simply, crime writing of the highest order' Express 'Worthy of Agatha Christie at her best' Scotsman
It always starts with a small lie. That's how you stop noticing the bigger ones. After his friend suspects something strange going on at the launch facility where they both work - and then goes missing - Martin Hepton doesn't believe the official line of long-term sick leave ... Refusing to stop asking questions, he leaves his old life behind, aware that someone is shadowing his every move. The only hope he has is his ex-girlfriend Jill Watson - the only journalist who will believe his story. But neither of them can believe the puzzle they're piecing together - or just how shocking the secret is that everybody wants to stay hidden... A gripping, page-turning suspense masterclass - experience the brilliance of the iconic Ian Rankin.
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?
'What treats you have in store!' IAN RANKIN. Who knew literature could be so lethal? Here are 20 specially commissioned stories about deadly books from the world's best crime writers. By turns hair-raising and playful, packed with twists and turns, literary references and bookish conundrums, this is a treasure chest of bloodthirsty bibliophilia. Death Sentences has stories to die for from: Ian Rankin, Jeffery Deaver, Denise Mina, C.J. Box, Anne Perry, Peter Robinson, Stephen Hunter, Ken Bruen, Laura Lippman, F. Paul Wilson, Mickey Spillane & Max Allan Collins, Joyce Carol Oates, Peter Lovesey, Megan Abbott, R. L. Stine, Andrew Taylor, Joe R. Lansdale, John Connolly, Christopher Fowler and Nelson DeMille.
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.
Private investigator Stuart Bloom was missing, presumed dead. Until now. His body is discovered in an abandoned car - in an area that had already been searched... Detective Inspector Siobhan Clarke combs through the mistakes of the original investigation. After a decade without answers, it's time for the truth. But it seems everyone involved with the case is hiding something. None more so than Siobhan's own mentor: former detective John Rebus. The only man who knows where the trail may lead - and that it could be the end of him. EVERYONE HAS SECRETS NOBODY IS INNOCENT IN A HOUSE OF LIES
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 INSTANT NUMBER ONE BESTSELLER***** The iconic Ian Rankin returns with the essential must-read thriller of the year. Loved In A House Of Lies. How does Rebus keep on getting better and better? Ian Rankin is a genius. LEE CHILD One of British crime writing's greatest characters: alongside Holmes, Poirot and Morse ... Beautifully told, superbly constructed and utterly engrossing. DAILY MAIL Absolutely wonderful. Clever, gripping, a fabulous read. KATE MOSSE Rankin's Latest and Greatest. It is stunning. I didn't sleep for three nights reading it. JILLY COOPER * * * * * 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. * * * * * Grips from the first sentence. No one in Britain writes better crime novels today. EVENING STANDARD There's no one like Ian Rankin for bringing us right into the world of detectives. In A House of Lies is a must-read. TANA FRENCH Thrillingly told, with the best cast in contemporary crime, Rankin is one of the most significant social commentators of our time. Just read the book. It says it better than I can. DENISE MINA Rankin remains the most consistent practitioner of finely crafted, richly detailed, literary crime novels being produced today. He's always been at the top of his game, and this latest is no exception. LINWOOD BARCLAY A first-rate crime novel: tense, twisty and often very funny. A real joy - Rebus still makes sparks fly. ELLY GRIFFITHS Definitely not to be missed. Rankin's at the top of his form here, and no reader will go away disappointed. PETER ROBINSON
The stage debut for the legendary detective John Rebus in this brand new, original story by Ian Rankin, written alongside the award-winning playwright Rona Munro. John Rebus is not as young as he was, but his detective instincts have never left him. And after the daughter of a murder victim turns up outside his flat, he's going to need them at their sharpest. Enlisting the help of his old friend DI Siobhan Clarke, Rebus is determined to solve this cold case once and for all. But Clarke has problems of her own, problems that will put her at odds with her long-time mentor and push him into seeking help from his age-old adversary: 'Big Ger' Cafferty. This haunting story takes Rebus to places he has never been before, sets him and his long-time foe on a collision course and takes us deeper into one of the most satisfying conflicts in modern fiction. Featuring an introduction from Rankin himself, a Q&A between writers Ian and Rona, an interview with the director, and behind-the-scenes production materials, this book is one Rebus fans will not want to miss out on.
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?
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.
