**Line-Up Revealed for Bloody Scotland Crime Writing Festival, Guest Curated by Iconic Author Sir Ian Rankin**
The highly anticipated schedule for the 2025 Bloody Scotland International Crime Writing Festival has been announced, featuring an impressive array of best-selling authors and notable public figures. This year’s edition is particularly significant, as much-loved Scottish novelist Sir Ian Rankin steps into the role of guest programmer for the first time in the festival’s history.
Taking place in Stirling from 12 to 14 September, the festival boasts a host of celebrated names from the world of crime fiction and beyond. Attendees can look forward to personal appearances from literary titans including Kate Atkinson, Kathy Reichs, and Jo Nesbo, mingling with both fans and fellow writers in an event lauded for its welcoming spirit.
Adding a playful twist, the programme will also feature Terry Deary, famed creator of the Horrible Histories series, and medical doctor-turned-comedian Adam Kay. Meanwhile, broadcasters Steph McGovern, Jeremy Vine, and the Reverend Richard Coles are also set to make presentations, illustrating the festival’s diverse and eclectic appeal.
A nod to Sir Ian Rankin’s enduring legacy is evident throughout the schedule. James McPherson, renowned for his pivotal role in “Taggart” and as the voice behind the Rebus audiobooks, will be present. Audiences can also look forward to an appearance from Gray O’Brien, the former Coronation Street star who has recently portrayed Rebus on stage – a character Rankin famously created.
The showcase highlights a wealth of talent hailing from Scotland itself, with established authors such as Chris Brookmyre teaming up with Marisa Haetzman as Ambrose Parry, alongside Denise Mina, Graeme Macrae Burnet, Alex Gray, Lin Anderson, and Judy Murray. Their participation signals the festival’s ongoing support for homegrown crime and thriller writing.
Reflecting on his involvement, Sir Ian Rankin shared his enthusiasm: “It’s a joy reaching out to writers whose work I respect, inviting them to join this marvellous gathering. Everyone said yes — that’s a real compliment to the festival’s reputation. We’re offering everything from conversations on human rights with Philippe Sands, to Kate Atkinson’s unique take on Edinburgh, and Kathy Reichs joining us from North America.” He added that a whisky-and-music evening was on the cards, starring two musicians-turned-authors, providing further insight into the festival’s vibrant atmosphere.
Attendees can expect a programme that stretches across the crime spectrum, from ‘cosy’ mysteries to hard-boiled noir, and includes engaging discussions on non-fiction subjects as well. Sir Ian emphasised the egalitarian culture of the event: “Writers, readers, and fans all mix together with no barriers – we’re all passionate admirers of crime fiction here.”
Festival director Bob McDevitt heralded this year’s line-up as “one of our strongest ever,” crediting Sir Ian Rankin’s direction for the diversity and depth of the programme. He commented, “Audiences will be treated to a blend of household names at the peak of their fields and fresh voices delivering innovative takes on the genre. I can’t wait for September.”
Other notable contributors include actor Joey Batey, famed for his role in Netflix’s “The Witcher,” Chris Chibnall, the creative force behind “Broadchurch,” and acclaimed American novelist Laura Lippman, who will take the stage with Mark Billingham. Special fringe presentations will add further excitement, with a “Day of the Deid” procession led by Sir Ian himself, and a whisky-themed music night featuring performances from James Yorkston and Colin MacIntyre.
Creative Scotland’s head of literature and publishing, Alan Bett, highlighted the festival’s commitment to nurturing fresh talent: “Bloody Scotland is instrumental in spotlighting emerging Scottish writers, offering them a springboard for their careers while helping crime fiction enthusiasts discover new favourites.”
Events will unfold across several iconic Stirling venues, including the Albert Halls, Trinity Church, Central Library and The Golden Lion Hotel. For Sir Ian Rankin, who has captained the festival’s writers’ football team and frequently led its iconic torchlight procession, Bloody Scotland remains “the world’s friendliest and most inclusive celebration of crime fiction, drawing the brightest stars to Stirling year after year.”
For further information on the full programme and how to attend, readers can visit the official Bloody Scotland website at www.bloodyscotland.com. The 2025 edition looks set to uphold the festival’s tradition of bringing together crime fiction’s best and brightest in an environment both accessible and utterly unique.