Here are 5 book recommendations for thrillers either set in Scotland, written by Scottish authors or authors currently living in Scotland! In no particular order…
A Quicksand of Memory by Michael J. Malone
If you haven’t read a book by Michael J. Malone then this is your sign to change that! This is a dark and haunting psychological thriller covering themes of abuse, toxicity, trolls, guilt, and revenge (but also so much more!). Malone is one of those writers who leave a lasting mark in your memory. This book has characters you’ll love and despise, a bloody powerful opening and an intensity that will have you biting your nails as you turn the pages. Told in multiple POV’s, you get a good understanding of the whole storyline from different perspectives. Plus short, sharp chapters make you just want to keep reading until you reach the shocking but satisfying conclusion.
The Undiscovered Deaths of Grace McGill by C.S. Robertson
Craig (C.S.) Robertson knows how to capture your attention! I absolutely LOVED the concept of this book. It was like a murder mystery mashed up with thriller elements. It’s atmospheric and having been to Bute, it made me feel more invested in the story. Filled with strong characters and a smashing hook, you will never forget Grace McGill!
Follow Me To The Edge by Tariq Ashkanani
This is the second book in a series but easily read on its own. Set in the US, there was some good humour in this novel, it wasn’t what I was expecting. It has quite a dark and tragic storyline and quite a gritty, almost noir-ish undertone. I enjoyed the characters and thought the storyline was intriguing. In fact, I enjoyed it so much – I bought the first book.
Terms of Restitution by Denzil Meyrick
Hello violence my old friend… 🎶 Well this was a bit of a switch from the DCI Daley series and I am here for it! It took me a little while to get into the story and then OMG – I raced through it at record speed. I love a good gangland thriller and the setting (Glasgow/Paisley) was a good fit. Also pleasing was the strong female leads. Dark, sinister and thrilling – I thought it was fab stand-alone!
Southpaw by J.D. Kirk
I was at a slight disadvantage reading this having not read the first in the series but it actually didn’t affect my overall enjoyment of this novel. I also found the ending a touch abrupt but the characters, especially Hoon, made me forgive this. Dark and twisty, I think I’ve found a new series to obsess over.
So there you are! I’m slowly getting through my backlog of reviews and recommend all five of these if you are looking for unique, intriguing, dark and twisty thrillers with a Scottish touch!
