Bert explains The Shift into fiction
Stirling writer and ex-cop makes fest debut
Stirling crime writer Bert Mitchell says he can’t wait to take to the stage for his Bloody Scotland festival debut this weekend.
The author will join fellow writers Clare Mackintosh and Kate London on-stage at Allan Park South Church on Saturday evening.
The sold-out show titled From Cops to Robbers’ will see the trio, all former police officers who switched crime fighting for crime writing, talk to audiences about their experiences in the force and how that helped shape their writing.
Bert, who writes as R.J. Mitchell, will be talking about his book The Shift which tells the story of a young police officer in the summer of 1989.
He said: “The Shift is almost autobiographical. I write about the fact that as a young rookie cop in Glasgow a senior cop pulled a switchblade on me. There’s plenty of colour to what I’ve got to say, but there’s a fair bit of humour too, so I’m sure those who come along will find it interesting.
“I’m delighted to be involved in Bloody Scotland this year. I was born-and-bred here and have come back to live in the area. For the show to be a sellout is a real thrill.”
“From a personal point of view it’s also nice to be able to meet two other authors and learn more about their experiences – and how they differ to mine.”
Kate London will be speaking about her story Death Message – the second book in her series about the disappearance of a teenage girl.
And Clare Mackintosh’s bestseller I See You is a thriller which tells the story of a girl who sees her photo in the classified section of a newspaper and is determined to find out why it is there.
Bert added: “I’m sure it’s going to be very interesting. It’s the first time I’ve sat on a panel with Kate London and Clare Mackintosh so I’m looking forward to hearing what they say.
“I think it will appeal to anyone who enjoys fiction and crime fiction. The whole thing will be very authentic and derived from our own experiences.
“I was 12-years a copper and the truth is sometimes stranger than fiction.”
Gartocharn author Denzil Meyrick was initially supposed to be joining Bert on the bill at ‘From Cops to Robbers’ but had to pull out due to ill health.
Bert added: “It’s sad Denzil won’t be joining us but we wish him a speedy recovery.”
The event will take place from 5.30pm to 6.30pm in Allan Park South Church on Saturday.