18 crime novels Scotland

Reading lists

18 top crime novels set in Scotland

Claire Wilson

A very satisfying blend of grit and humanity

Tense, chilling and distinctive, this is a one-sitting read

A significant crime debut. Authoritatively authentic, irresistibly pacey and nerve-shreddingly tense

Five by Five is an assured debut by former prison officer Claire Wilson, taking us inside the claustrophobic and offtimes gladitorial setting of a modern prison. With the dodgy guards and vicious cons, this is a topical dive into the darker aspects of our penal system. Terrifyingly authentic.

Raw, brutal, claustrophobic, fast and impossible to put down. Written by someone who's walked the walk and seen the prison system close up

Neil Lancaster, bestselling author of Dead Man’s Grave

Brilliantly plotted and so tense I forgot to breathe in places

I really enjoyed this gritty crime thriller... feels like a blend of Orange is the New Black and Line of Duty

Raw, brutal, claustrophobic, fast and impossible to put down. Written by someone who's walked the walk and seen the prison system close up.

Just because the most dangerous criminals in society are caught and locked up, doesn’t mean they stop committing crime. That’s where Kennedy Allardyce comes in – working in one of Scotland’s toughest prisons, monitoring not just the prisoners, but also the staff. 
 
And she’s just stumbled across her most dangerous foe yet – rumours of a corrupt guard, nicknamed Scout, with lethal influence. And what’s worst, it seems they’ve already realised Kennedy is on their tail. 
 
Despite her growing fear, there is one thing going right for Kennedy. The enigmatic new guard Molly is beautiful and ready to sweep her off her feet. But Kennedy can’t afford to let her guard down. Because with Scout hiding very close by, her next mistake might just be her last…

Claire Wilson

Articles featuring Claire Wilson

18 top crime novels set in Scotland

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