Val’s capital venture is dead brilliant

VAL McDermid’s seventh novel in the Karen Pirie series, Past Lying, is an absolute triumph, capturing the essence of Edinburgh and weaving a compelling narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Set against the backdrop of the early days of covid, McDermid blends real challenges with a fictional mystery that feels both current and timeless.

Edinburgh, a city steeped in literary history and the spectres of past writers, serves as the ideal setting for DCI Pirie’s cold case investigations.

When a manuscript by a dead author appears to mirror the details of an unsolved case involving a missing Edinburgh University student, Lara Hardie, Karen finds herself drawn into a labyrinthine plot of deception and revenge.

The manuscript, tantalisingly incomplete, holds the key to solving the mystery but its clues are as elusive as they are intriguing.

McDermid’s narrative brilliance shines as Karen delves deeper into the manuscript’s connections to the real-life case.

The parallels between the fiction and the reality she uncovers are chilling and the investigation takes on a life of its own, revealing layers of betrayal and unexpected twists that keep readers guessing until the very end.

The novel’s metafictional elements—an author’s manuscript seemingly dictating real events—add a unique twist that feels fresh and innovative.

For newcomers to the Karen Pirie series, Past Lying is an engaging entry point while longtime fans will appreciate the continuity and development of recurring characters.

McDermid’s playful nods to her fellow writers and the crime fiction genre add humour and charm.

Val McDermid will be part of the Bloody Scotland programme official launch in Stirling on June 20 from midday at the Golden Lion

Hotel. The names of over

100 authors taking part over the festival weekend will be announced for events running from September 13-15. Find out more at bloody

scotland.com

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