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Bloody Scotland
In Bloody Scotland a selection of Scotland's best crime writers use the sinister side of the country's built heritage in stories that are by turns gripping, chilling and redemptive.
Stellar contributors Val McDermid, Chris Brookmyre, Denise Mina, Ann Cleeves, Louise Welsh, Lin Anderson, Doug Johnstone, Gordon Brown, Craig Robertson, E S Thomson, Sara Sheridan and Stuart MacBride explore the thrilling potential of Scotland's iconic sites and structures. From murder in an Iron Age broch and a macabre tale of revenge among the furious clamour of an eighteenth century mill, to a dark psychological thriller set within the tourist throng of Edinburgh Castle and a rivalry turning fatal in the concrete galleries of an abandoned modernist ruin, this collection uncovers the intimate - and deadly - connections between people and places.
Prepare for a dangerous journey into the dark shadows of our nation's buildings - where passion, fury, desire and death collide.
Stellar contributors Val McDermid, Chris Brookmyre, Denise Mina, Ann Cleeves, Louise Welsh, Lin Anderson, Doug Johnstone, Gordon Brown, Craig Robertson, E S Thomson, Sara Sheridan and Stuart MacBride explore the thrilling potential of Scotland's iconic sites and structures. From murder in an Iron Age broch and a macabre tale of revenge among the furious clamour of an eighteenth century mill, to a dark psychological thriller set within the tourist throng of Edinburgh Castle and a rivalry turning fatal in the concrete galleries of an abandoned modernist ruin, this collection uncovers the intimate - and deadly - connections between people and places.
Prepare for a dangerous journey into the dark shadows of our nation's buildings - where passion, fury, desire and death collide.
291 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 7, 2017
59 people are currently reading
1386 people want to read
About the author
James Crawford
6 books9 followersJames Crawford is a writer and broadcaster. His first major book, Fallen Glory: The Lives and Deaths of History’s Greatest Buildings was shortlisted for the Saltire Literary Award for best non-fiction. His other books include Who Built Scotland: 25 Journeys in Search of a Nation, Scotland’s Landscapes and Aerofilms: A History of Britain from Above. The Edge of the Plain: How Borders Make and Break Our World was published in 2022.
Crawford wrote and presented three series of the BBC One landmark documentary series Scotland from the Sky, which was Shortlisted as ‘Best Factual Series’ at the Royal Television Society Awards Scotland. In 2019 he was named as the Archive and Records Association’s first-ever ‘Explore Your Archives’ Ambassador. He lives in Edinburgh.
Crawford wrote and presented three series of the BBC One landmark documentary series Scotland from the Sky, which was Shortlisted as ‘Best Factual Series’ at the Royal Television Society Awards Scotland. In 2019 he was named as the Archive and Records Association’s first-ever ‘Explore Your Archives’ Ambassador. He lives in Edinburgh.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
October 19, 2017
This collection of short stories feature some of the best Scottish crime writers around (of which there are many to choose from) are all set around real, historic sites in Scotland. In fact, one of the best things about this collection, is that you can visit the places mentioned in these stories – although whether you may want to after reading this creepy collection is another matter!
Authors include Val McDermid, Chris Brookmyre, Louise Welsh, Craig Robertson, Denise Mina and others. Some of these authors I had read before, others I had not, but there was not a bad story contained within the collection. I was actually drawn to read this after hearing a snippet of Denise Mina’s story in the podcast, “Open Book,” and I was not disappointed by reading the entire story, which is definitely my favourite in the entire collection. Her story of a family visit to Edinburgh Castle, accompanied by their dysfunctional young son was truly outstanding.
Another highlight for me was, “The Last Siege of Bothwell Castle,” by Chris Brookmyre, with an unusual take on terrorists targeting a tourist site, and Ann Cleeves offering, “The Return”. However, this is an excellent collection of stories, with wonderful settings – murder and mayhem amongst the very beautiful surroundings of Scotland.
Authors include Val McDermid, Chris Brookmyre, Louise Welsh, Craig Robertson, Denise Mina and others. Some of these authors I had read before, others I had not, but there was not a bad story contained within the collection. I was actually drawn to read this after hearing a snippet of Denise Mina’s story in the podcast, “Open Book,” and I was not disappointed by reading the entire story, which is definitely my favourite in the entire collection. Her story of a family visit to Edinburgh Castle, accompanied by their dysfunctional young son was truly outstanding.
Another highlight for me was, “The Last Siege of Bothwell Castle,” by Chris Brookmyre, with an unusual take on terrorists targeting a tourist site, and Ann Cleeves offering, “The Return”. However, this is an excellent collection of stories, with wonderful settings – murder and mayhem amongst the very beautiful surroundings of Scotland.
April 23, 2018
Loved it. Great collection of stories that range from gothic to contemporary, all set in locations around Scotland that boast a spooky past. One of the best anthologies of short stories I've ever read & features an all Scottish team of authors including Denise Mina, Val McDermid, Craig Robertson, Stuart MacBride, Anne Cleeves, Chris Brookmyre & Lin Anderson.
September 19, 2017
WOW! WOW! WOW! – what a superb line up of authors to curl up to and read over a matter of hours. I devoured each short story and was in awe of the fabulous history that fell alongside them all.
Various themes lure the reader into the pages of this book and include such things as: loss; love; grief; history; revenge; resentment; anger; power & control; desperation; the past; escapism; fear; sadness and justice – all the makings of some excellent crime stories! It was like a wee recipe of greatness rolled up into 291 pages of completely compelling suspense!
The stories were set in various locations across Scotland and I loved that pictures were included to show the reader the exact location that they were reading about. For me, this added to the mystery and suspense as I read each story picturing exactly where it had taken place.
Lin Anderson starts off the Anthology with an eery, haunting Nordic noir feel short story Maeshowe – Orkahaugr. I was reminded very much of Edgar Alan Poe when I read this story. Next I was captivated by Val McDermid’s The Hermit’s Castle- Ancient and Modern which was a melancholic but highly entertaining read with fantastic descriptive narrative. E.S. Thomson then took over in Stanley Mills – Kissing the Shuttle. It was a bit of a slow starter for me, but when the pace picked up, I was catapulted to the ending and will never look at a …well, I can’t give that away, now can I!? Doug Johnstone took me on an intense and suspenseful read filled with desperation and difficult choices in Painting The Forth Bridge – great story!
Then came Christopher Brookmyre with The Last Siege of Bothwell Castle. I absolutely LOVED this! The use of Scottish lingo in the narrative and realism in terms of the characters had me hooked! As usual, Mr Brookmyre packed the pages with #AllTheBooms and I thoroughly enjoyed this story! I wonder if he will be welcomed at Bothwell Castle anymore…Kinneil House was the setting for Sara Sheridan’s Sanctuary which was a haunting tale of almost a ghost story crossed with crime fiction. Stuart MacBride did not fail to impress me with Stevenson’s Candle at Kinnaird Head Lighthouse. Funny, dark and oh-so-twisted, I was absolutely blown away with the ending and was TOTALLY wrong when I thought I had it all figured out! Brilliant! The next destination was Crookston Castle where Gordon Brown gives us a History Lesson! Highly emotive and cleverly written, I really enjoyed how this story played out. Louise Welsh takes us to Crossraguel Abbey in her story entitled Come Friendly Bombs. An interesting story that was a bit of a slow burner for me, if I am honest – but good overall!
Craig Robertson – what a twisted soul! Mr Robertson takes us to St Peter’s Seminary, Cardross in his story The Twa Corbies of Cardross – loved this story! Dark, haunting and oh so wonderfully written. I wanted more by the time it had ended! I am going to skip Denise Mina – for now…and end this summary with the final story from Ann Cleeves called The Return (Mousa Broch) – this was a wee gem too! I loved how the story unfolded and the deception and suspense injected in the pages had me hooked.
As mentioned earlier, my FAVOURITE story out of the whole anthology, had to be Denise Mina’s Nemo Me Impune Lacessit which takes place at Edinburgh Castle. OMFG! What an absolutely dark, twisted and masterfully written tale. It was eery, creepy and deliciously devious. The title of this story means: Cross Me and Suffer – and holy shitballs, peeps…take that in the literal sense!! This was one compelling and extremely addictive read and I sooooo wanted more when it ended. I actually said WTF quite a few times. Brilliant! BRILLIANT!! With writing like this, it is no surprise that Denise Mina won the McIlvanney Prize this year….well deserved!!
So that is my summary/review of this fabulous anthology that gets a MASSIVE Hell Yeah recommendation from me! Grab a copy - You will not be disappointed. I also urge that you check out ALL these authors novels and series as they are some of the best out there! Happy reading, #bookjunkies!
Various themes lure the reader into the pages of this book and include such things as: loss; love; grief; history; revenge; resentment; anger; power & control; desperation; the past; escapism; fear; sadness and justice – all the makings of some excellent crime stories! It was like a wee recipe of greatness rolled up into 291 pages of completely compelling suspense!
The stories were set in various locations across Scotland and I loved that pictures were included to show the reader the exact location that they were reading about. For me, this added to the mystery and suspense as I read each story picturing exactly where it had taken place.
Lin Anderson starts off the Anthology with an eery, haunting Nordic noir feel short story Maeshowe – Orkahaugr. I was reminded very much of Edgar Alan Poe when I read this story. Next I was captivated by Val McDermid’s The Hermit’s Castle- Ancient and Modern which was a melancholic but highly entertaining read with fantastic descriptive narrative. E.S. Thomson then took over in Stanley Mills – Kissing the Shuttle. It was a bit of a slow starter for me, but when the pace picked up, I was catapulted to the ending and will never look at a …well, I can’t give that away, now can I!? Doug Johnstone took me on an intense and suspenseful read filled with desperation and difficult choices in Painting The Forth Bridge – great story!
Then came Christopher Brookmyre with The Last Siege of Bothwell Castle. I absolutely LOVED this! The use of Scottish lingo in the narrative and realism in terms of the characters had me hooked! As usual, Mr Brookmyre packed the pages with #AllTheBooms and I thoroughly enjoyed this story! I wonder if he will be welcomed at Bothwell Castle anymore…Kinneil House was the setting for Sara Sheridan’s Sanctuary which was a haunting tale of almost a ghost story crossed with crime fiction. Stuart MacBride did not fail to impress me with Stevenson’s Candle at Kinnaird Head Lighthouse. Funny, dark and oh-so-twisted, I was absolutely blown away with the ending and was TOTALLY wrong when I thought I had it all figured out! Brilliant! The next destination was Crookston Castle where Gordon Brown gives us a History Lesson! Highly emotive and cleverly written, I really enjoyed how this story played out. Louise Welsh takes us to Crossraguel Abbey in her story entitled Come Friendly Bombs. An interesting story that was a bit of a slow burner for me, if I am honest – but good overall!
Craig Robertson – what a twisted soul! Mr Robertson takes us to St Peter’s Seminary, Cardross in his story The Twa Corbies of Cardross – loved this story! Dark, haunting and oh so wonderfully written. I wanted more by the time it had ended! I am going to skip Denise Mina – for now…and end this summary with the final story from Ann Cleeves called The Return (Mousa Broch) – this was a wee gem too! I loved how the story unfolded and the deception and suspense injected in the pages had me hooked.
As mentioned earlier, my FAVOURITE story out of the whole anthology, had to be Denise Mina’s Nemo Me Impune Lacessit which takes place at Edinburgh Castle. OMFG! What an absolutely dark, twisted and masterfully written tale. It was eery, creepy and deliciously devious. The title of this story means: Cross Me and Suffer – and holy shitballs, peeps…take that in the literal sense!! This was one compelling and extremely addictive read and I sooooo wanted more when it ended. I actually said WTF quite a few times. Brilliant! BRILLIANT!! With writing like this, it is no surprise that Denise Mina won the McIlvanney Prize this year….well deserved!!
So that is my summary/review of this fabulous anthology that gets a MASSIVE Hell Yeah recommendation from me! Grab a copy - You will not be disappointed. I also urge that you check out ALL these authors novels and series as they are some of the best out there! Happy reading, #bookjunkies!
December 19, 2020
Short story mysteries?! Set in Scotland?! At architectural locations?! Introducing me to new authors?! I’m in!!
April 6, 2018
|3.5 stars|
Bloody Scotland is a collection of 12 short stories that revolve around 12 famous Scottish monuments and has a murder element in it.
While I loved a few stories, the other fell flat to my taste. It’s difficult when an author is constrained and isn’t allowed to think out of the box. That is what I believe happened to this collection.
Orkahaugr by Lin Anderson: The first story is about the curiosity of a man for the monument called Maeshowe. It talks about Norse Mythology and death.
Ancient and Modern by Val McDermid: A revenge planned around The Hermit’s Castle.
Kissing the Shuttle by E S Thomson: A plot revolving around sexual abuse in the Stanley Mills.
Painting the Forth Bridge by Doug Johnstone: A fathers love for his daughter and to be with her, no matter the costs. Set in The Forth Bridge.
The Last Siege of Bothwell Castle by Chris Brookmyre: A tale involving a siege of Bothwell Castle, staged by some local Mafia.
Sanctuary by Sara Sheridan: Involves the Kinneil House and is a horror story. Revolves around ancient paintings and murals.
Stevenson’s Candle by Stuart MacBride: A psychological thriller, well written and gripping. Set in the Kinnaird Head Lighthouse
History Lesson by Gordon Brown: Talks about a father-son relationship and involves the Crookston Castle
Come Friendly Bombs by Louise Welsh: Talks about war-ridden Scotland and the solace provided by Crossraguel Abbey
The Two Corbies of Cardross by Craig Robertson: Two thieves, the ultimate goal is survival. Their favorite spot being St. Peter’s Seminary, Cardross.
Nemo Me Impune Lacessit by Denise Mina: Mental illness and consequences. Set in the famous Edinburgh Castle.
The Return by Ann Cleeves: Deception and murder in the Mousa Broch.
My most favorites are Nemo Me Impune Lacessit, Stevenson’s Candle and The Return. These were exceptionally written with an impressive plot and well-written characters. The thriller in most of the stories was great, but a few felt forced, especially when drawing a connection with the monuments. A few weren’t related at all.
A short description of each monument has been provided at the end, along with the author introduction.
What overpowers everything is the fact that each monument has been described beautifully. Their grandeur and history have all been told along with the story.
This collection can be thought of as an insight into the writing style of some great Scottish authors and I have chosen a few whose work I would like to read further.)
Bloody Scotland is a collection of 12 short stories that revolve around 12 famous Scottish monuments and has a murder element in it.
While I loved a few stories, the other fell flat to my taste. It’s difficult when an author is constrained and isn’t allowed to think out of the box. That is what I believe happened to this collection.
Orkahaugr by Lin Anderson: The first story is about the curiosity of a man for the monument called Maeshowe. It talks about Norse Mythology and death.
Ancient and Modern by Val McDermid: A revenge planned around The Hermit’s Castle.
Kissing the Shuttle by E S Thomson: A plot revolving around sexual abuse in the Stanley Mills.
Painting the Forth Bridge by Doug Johnstone: A fathers love for his daughter and to be with her, no matter the costs. Set in The Forth Bridge.
The Last Siege of Bothwell Castle by Chris Brookmyre: A tale involving a siege of Bothwell Castle, staged by some local Mafia.
Sanctuary by Sara Sheridan: Involves the Kinneil House and is a horror story. Revolves around ancient paintings and murals.
Stevenson’s Candle by Stuart MacBride: A psychological thriller, well written and gripping. Set in the Kinnaird Head Lighthouse
History Lesson by Gordon Brown: Talks about a father-son relationship and involves the Crookston Castle
Come Friendly Bombs by Louise Welsh: Talks about war-ridden Scotland and the solace provided by Crossraguel Abbey
The Two Corbies of Cardross by Craig Robertson: Two thieves, the ultimate goal is survival. Their favorite spot being St. Peter’s Seminary, Cardross.
Nemo Me Impune Lacessit by Denise Mina: Mental illness and consequences. Set in the famous Edinburgh Castle.
The Return by Ann Cleeves: Deception and murder in the Mousa Broch.
My most favorites are Nemo Me Impune Lacessit, Stevenson’s Candle and The Return. These were exceptionally written with an impressive plot and well-written characters. The thriller in most of the stories was great, but a few felt forced, especially when drawing a connection with the monuments. A few weren’t related at all.
A short description of each monument has been provided at the end, along with the author introduction.
What overpowers everything is the fact that each monument has been described beautifully. Their grandeur and history have all been told along with the story.
This collection can be thought of as an insight into the writing style of some great Scottish authors and I have chosen a few whose work I would like to read further.)
February 7, 2018
Bloody Scotland , as the name suggest is a collection of 12 short crime stories by some fine writers of Scotland.
I am a die hard crime fiction lover and I absolutely loved this book. Every story begins somewhere in Scotland and with a pictorial representation which makes the story all the more interesting. I , as a reader could fairly well imagine how the whole story was taking place.
To avoid the review to be very long , I’m extensively reviewing only one of my favorite from the twelve which was hands down Nemo Me Inpune Lacessit by Denise Mina.
--> Nemo Me Inpune Lacessit by Denise Mina
Nemo Me Inpune Lacessit translates to “Cross me and Suffer”. The story revolves around the life of Jake , an eleven year old mysterious boy and his family. Jake is not normal and his family feels he is possessed or mentally ill. The CCTV cameras in the house often show him standing next to the bed of his parents in the middle of the night , staring them for hours. Once they found a hammer near the bed and on checking the recordings they found him practice-swing it at his mother Audrey’s head and laugh to himself.
The family – Jake , his mother Audrey , father Pete , six year old brother Simon and seven year old Hannah are on a visit to the Edinburgh Castle. Jake , who always acts in a weird and strange manner is rather calm and excited to visit the castle. His parents are amused at his behavior but are happy than suspicious. They enter the castle and stroll through the dungeons and suddenly Jake goes missing. His parents are on a lookout and in the blink of an eye , Simon and Hannah disappear. Where did the kids go?
The story leaves you in a fit. It gives a paranormal effect and I loved it.
Recommended for all the crime and short story lovers out there.
Orkahaugr by Lin Anderson
Ancient and Modern by Val McDermid
Kissing the Shuttle by E S Thomson
Painting the Forth Bridge by Doug Johnstone
The Last Siege of Bothwell Castle by Chris Brookmyre
Sanctuary by Sara Sheridan
Stevenson’s Candle by Stuart MacBride
History Lesson by Gordon Brown
Come Friendly Bombs by Louise Welsh
The Twa Corbies of Cardross by Craig Robertson
Nemo Me Impune Lacessit by Denise Mina
The Return by Ann Cleeves
I am a die hard crime fiction lover and I absolutely loved this book. Every story begins somewhere in Scotland and with a pictorial representation which makes the story all the more interesting. I , as a reader could fairly well imagine how the whole story was taking place.
To avoid the review to be very long , I’m extensively reviewing only one of my favorite from the twelve which was hands down Nemo Me Inpune Lacessit by Denise Mina.
--> Nemo Me Inpune Lacessit by Denise Mina
Nemo Me Inpune Lacessit translates to “Cross me and Suffer”. The story revolves around the life of Jake , an eleven year old mysterious boy and his family. Jake is not normal and his family feels he is possessed or mentally ill. The CCTV cameras in the house often show him standing next to the bed of his parents in the middle of the night , staring them for hours. Once they found a hammer near the bed and on checking the recordings they found him practice-swing it at his mother Audrey’s head and laugh to himself.
“I’m finished too , Mum.”
The family – Jake , his mother Audrey , father Pete , six year old brother Simon and seven year old Hannah are on a visit to the Edinburgh Castle. Jake , who always acts in a weird and strange manner is rather calm and excited to visit the castle. His parents are amused at his behavior but are happy than suspicious. They enter the castle and stroll through the dungeons and suddenly Jake goes missing. His parents are on a lookout and in the blink of an eye , Simon and Hannah disappear. Where did the kids go?
The story leaves you in a fit. It gives a paranormal effect and I loved it.
Recommended for all the crime and short story lovers out there.
February 21, 2018
Twelve of Scotland's best crime writers come together under one roof in Bloody Scotland to weave stories centred around the country's iconic sites and buildings. Lin Anderson, Gordon Brown, Chris Brookmyre, Ann Cleeves, Doug Johnstone, Stuart MacBride, Val McDermid, Denise Mina, Craig Robertson, Sara Sheridan, E S Thomson and Louise Welsh brings forth tales that are at once gripping, stimulating and often bone-chilling.
From intense psychological thrillers to gripping tales of revenge to murder and chicanery, Bloody Scotland offers stories to please lovers of crime thrillers of varied interests in the crime/thriller genre. A brilliantly crafted book, it provides readers with an insight into Scotland's built heritage.
Being someone who lacks an interest in reading short story collections, what prompted me to take up the book was the central theme of the book- stories of crime inspired from the prominent sites and buildings of Scotland. Though the first story was just average (raising my scepticism about picking up the book), I was hooked from the very second story and thereafter found it to be unputdownable. Except for two or three stories that failed to impress me and was a bit mundane (reason for the rating of 4/5 instead of a full-fledged 5), I extremely loved the short stories. A personal favourite would be Nemo Me Impune Lacessit by Denise Mina which was a dark psychological thriller set in Edinburgh Castle. I was also completely bowled over by the writing of Val McDermid in Ancient and Modern, which is a revenge story set in Hermit's Castle.
I loved how at the end the book had descriptions of all the sites and/or buildings described in the story (that too with details on visiting times!!!) This book just made me add Scotland to my list of countries to visit ASAP!!
I absolutely loved Bloody Scotland and would highly recommend it to everyone, especially fans of crime thrillers and those who are looking for a gripping quick read. I strongly feel that this book will even help you get out of a reading slump (though I may recommend skipping the first story if that is the case).
March 31, 2018
What a fascinating premise--Have 12 of Scotland's top crime writers pen stories inspired by historic buildings.
The result is a mix of intriguing tales reflecting the different directions imagination can take a writer. There's something to suit the taste of every reader and don't be surprised if you find yourself tempted to visit the iconic sites mentioned. In addition to the stories, the book includes an introduction to the authors and information on the buildings and their accessibility.
The writers include some familiar and others new to me. I wasn't surprised to like the selections by those I knew and I expect I'll be searching out more from some of those new to me.
The feast begins with Lin Anderson's Orkahaugr, a Viking cold case set at Maeshowe, one of Europe's Neolithic chambered tombs. Val McDermid then takes us to The Hermit's Castle for a tale of vengeance.
I'm a fan of E S Thomson and her story Kissing the Shuttle, which takes place at Stanley Mills, is an evocative winner. Doug Johnstone's Painting The Forth Bridge depicts the desperation of a father separated from a child he loves.
Chris Brookmyre's The Last Siege of Bothwell Castle is a hostage situation with a definite twist. If your taste runs from to horror, you'll delight in Sara Sheridan's Sanctuary in the spooky environs of Kinneil House.
More into serial killers? Stuart MacBride takes us on a stormy night to Kinnaird Head Lighthouse for Stevenson's Candle. I thought I'd figured out the killer, but was I wrong. Another tale with a nice twist is Gordon Brown's History Lesson set at Crookston Castle.
A more ghoulish selection is Louise Welsh's entry, Come Friendly Bombs, which takes place at Crossraguel Abbey. This is followed by Craig Robertson's The Twa Corbies of Cardross, a dark, mystical piece set in the crumbling remains of St. Peter's Seminary.
Get prepared to be shocked when Denise Mina takes us to Edinburgh Castle for Nemo Me Impuna Lacessit. Some kids are more difficult to handle than others. The anthology ends with a tale by another favorite, Ann Cleeves. The Return takes us to Mousa Broch in the Shetlands where a birding expedition takes a nasty turn.
The result is a mix of intriguing tales reflecting the different directions imagination can take a writer. There's something to suit the taste of every reader and don't be surprised if you find yourself tempted to visit the iconic sites mentioned. In addition to the stories, the book includes an introduction to the authors and information on the buildings and their accessibility.
The writers include some familiar and others new to me. I wasn't surprised to like the selections by those I knew and I expect I'll be searching out more from some of those new to me.
The feast begins with Lin Anderson's Orkahaugr, a Viking cold case set at Maeshowe, one of Europe's Neolithic chambered tombs. Val McDermid then takes us to The Hermit's Castle for a tale of vengeance.
I'm a fan of E S Thomson and her story Kissing the Shuttle, which takes place at Stanley Mills, is an evocative winner. Doug Johnstone's Painting The Forth Bridge depicts the desperation of a father separated from a child he loves.
Chris Brookmyre's The Last Siege of Bothwell Castle is a hostage situation with a definite twist. If your taste runs from to horror, you'll delight in Sara Sheridan's Sanctuary in the spooky environs of Kinneil House.
More into serial killers? Stuart MacBride takes us on a stormy night to Kinnaird Head Lighthouse for Stevenson's Candle. I thought I'd figured out the killer, but was I wrong. Another tale with a nice twist is Gordon Brown's History Lesson set at Crookston Castle.
A more ghoulish selection is Louise Welsh's entry, Come Friendly Bombs, which takes place at Crossraguel Abbey. This is followed by Craig Robertson's The Twa Corbies of Cardross, a dark, mystical piece set in the crumbling remains of St. Peter's Seminary.
Get prepared to be shocked when Denise Mina takes us to Edinburgh Castle for Nemo Me Impuna Lacessit. Some kids are more difficult to handle than others. The anthology ends with a tale by another favorite, Ann Cleeves. The Return takes us to Mousa Broch in the Shetlands where a birding expedition takes a nasty turn.
October 25, 2017
Actual rating: 3.5
It started off kind of weak, but I ended up really liking it overall. A few of the stories felt really rushed, and I was bummed that some of them aren't actually longer books. I definitely recommend this if you want something quick to read.
Individual story ratings:
Orkahaugr by Lin Anderson - ⋆⋆⋆
Ancient and Modern by Val McDermid - ⋆⋆
Kissing the Shuttle by E S Thomson - ⋆⋆⋆⋆
Painting the Forth Bridge by Doug Johnstone - ⋆⋆⋆⋆
The Last Siege of Bothwell Castle by Chris Brookmyre - ⋆⋆
Sanctuary by Sara Sheridan - ⋆⋆⋆
Stevenson's Candle by Stuart MacBride - ⋆
History Lesson by Gordon Brown - ⋆⋆⋆
Come Friendly Bombs by Louise Welsh - ⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆
The Twa Corbies of Cardross by Craig Robertson - ⋆⋆⋆⋆
Nemo Me Impune Lacessit - ⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆
The Return - ⋆⋆⋆⋆
It started off kind of weak, but I ended up really liking it overall. A few of the stories felt really rushed, and I was bummed that some of them aren't actually longer books. I definitely recommend this if you want something quick to read.
Individual story ratings:
Orkahaugr by Lin Anderson - ⋆⋆⋆
Ancient and Modern by Val McDermid - ⋆⋆
Kissing the Shuttle by E S Thomson - ⋆⋆⋆⋆
Painting the Forth Bridge by Doug Johnstone - ⋆⋆⋆⋆
The Last Siege of Bothwell Castle by Chris Brookmyre - ⋆⋆
Sanctuary by Sara Sheridan - ⋆⋆⋆
Stevenson's Candle by Stuart MacBride - ⋆
History Lesson by Gordon Brown - ⋆⋆⋆
Come Friendly Bombs by Louise Welsh - ⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆
The Twa Corbies of Cardross by Craig Robertson - ⋆⋆⋆⋆
Nemo Me Impune Lacessit - ⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆
The Return - ⋆⋆⋆⋆
August 11, 2020
Anthology of short stories: crime fiction set against the background of real places in Scotland and the islands thereabout. The characters are fiction, though. I liked nearly every story, some more than others. The stories range from one involving a murder involving Vikings, through ones involving revenge, cannibalism and just plain evil, even including one of my favorites: "Sanctuary": a gothic fantasy complete with ghost. The only one I disliked: "The last siege of Bothwell Castle": Islamic State takeover of the castle, with tourists. A section after the stories gives the reader the background of each setting. Now I have the names of more authors to try.
Recommended.
Recommended.
September 19, 2017
A fantastic collection of short stories from twelve of Scotland's best crime writers. Set in twelve iconic buildings there's a really great mix of stories. From tales of revenge, murder, kidnapping and terrorism to Vikings and a bit of cannibalism I'd say there's probably something for everyone.
As expected I absolutely loved the stories from my two favourite Scottish crime authors Chris Brookmyre and Stuart MacBride. Brookmyre's story is set in Bothwell Castle (about a 5 min drive from my house) and reminded me of some of his older books. It's really funny and had me giggling away on the train to work. MacBride true to form is having another dig at the weather in the Aberdeen area (rain features heavily in all of his books) with a story set in a lighthouse during a hurricane. It's a very atmospheric story with some brilliant characterisation as always.
Some of the other stories were also brilliant and many from authors I'm less familiar with. I won't go through them all but definite highlights were Denise Mina's Edinburgh Castle story which is seriously disturbing, Gordon Brown's story about a man discovering the truth about his father when he returns for his funeral and E.S. Thomson's story set in Stanley Mills which creates a brilliant portrait of a not very nice man who gets his comeuppance.
I'm often not too keen on short stories (they're too bloomin short) but in this I have to say each and every author has created something memorable, with great characters and a real sense of place.
Definitely a book I'd recommend for all crime readers.
I received a copy of this book free from the publishers as part of a blog tour. This has not influenced my review.
As expected I absolutely loved the stories from my two favourite Scottish crime authors Chris Brookmyre and Stuart MacBride. Brookmyre's story is set in Bothwell Castle (about a 5 min drive from my house) and reminded me of some of his older books. It's really funny and had me giggling away on the train to work. MacBride true to form is having another dig at the weather in the Aberdeen area (rain features heavily in all of his books) with a story set in a lighthouse during a hurricane. It's a very atmospheric story with some brilliant characterisation as always.
Some of the other stories were also brilliant and many from authors I'm less familiar with. I won't go through them all but definite highlights were Denise Mina's Edinburgh Castle story which is seriously disturbing, Gordon Brown's story about a man discovering the truth about his father when he returns for his funeral and E.S. Thomson's story set in Stanley Mills which creates a brilliant portrait of a not very nice man who gets his comeuppance.
I'm often not too keen on short stories (they're too bloomin short) but in this I have to say each and every author has created something memorable, with great characters and a real sense of place.
Definitely a book I'd recommend for all crime readers.
I received a copy of this book free from the publishers as part of a blog tour. This has not influenced my review.
January 10, 2018
I bought this while on vacation in Edinburgh and very much enjoyed reading the stories set in historic buildings in Scotland. Some of the stories are more psychological, some crime, some horror. Some are excellently-crafted and had me on the edge of my seat. Craig Robertson’s use of language is stunning in places. Some had me feeling powerfully for the characters. A couple of the horror stories weren’t to my taste, but all included pieces are at least good. The atmosphere of these old country settings is rendered strongly. I recommend.
November 27, 2021
This is a very fine collection of short stories written by a good variety of excellent authors featuring great Scottish locations. There are some real gems, but I even enjoyed Ann Cleeves' explanation of why she continues to visit Shetland and how she gets away with it without being bothered by others.
This collection was published 2018. I will now look for others.
Have to mention that in looking out for others like this I found "The Ultimate Christmas Collection" on Amazon for 1.99 kindle book including 150 authors! That will keep me busy for a year it looks like.
This collection was published 2018. I will now look for others.
Have to mention that in looking out for others like this I found "The Ultimate Christmas Collection" on Amazon for 1.99 kindle book including 150 authors! That will keep me busy for a year it looks like.
November 5, 2017
Loved Bloody Scotland, there is something in here for everyone, some very dark , while others are lighthearted, Twelve writers, twelve different locations, and twelve very different crimes, and villains.
One or two made me shiver, and chilled my blood, while reading but never once did I guess the outcome, and that is a good thing.
At the end of the book, there is a lovely touch, as each location is given a little bit of history and this made the reading a whole new level
One or two made me shiver, and chilled my blood, while reading but never once did I guess the outcome, and that is a good thing.
At the end of the book, there is a lovely touch, as each location is given a little bit of history and this made the reading a whole new level
August 21, 2021
3.5
Read them all, not in order, more by region.
I enjoyed most of the stories. some cliche, a few others added some humor and two were a real surprise. One just down right creepy.
The scenery was well described and you could get a sense of what it might have been like centuries ago, in whatever old place the story was in. ~
Read them all, not in order, more by region.
I enjoyed most of the stories. some cliche, a few others added some humor and two were a real surprise. One just down right creepy.
The scenery was well described and you could get a sense of what it might have been like centuries ago, in whatever old place the story was in. ~
August 10, 2018
Very enjoyable short story collection of macabre stories. The best two were by Denise Mina, Nemo Me Impune Lacessit and by Ann Cleve’s, The Return. Val McDermid’s Ancient and Modern was good too. 12 total. Each story is set at an historical structure.
May 5, 2024
I purchased this book simply because of the list of authors inside. I did not realize this book set each story in a location from Historic Environment Scotland. Not only did I get a sampling of authors I have not yet read but I did learn about places I need to visit when I am visit Scotland.
March 21, 2020
Except for 2 stories that I found scary (I won't tell you which ones!) the 12 in this book were very well written. I particularly enjoyed the final story by Anne Cleaves. It was a very clever plot.
April 4, 2018
Read the full review here: https://poesyinchrysalis.wordpress.co...
Recommended for crime fiction and short story lovers. Also, if you like to read stories that has that old historic feeling to them, you can definitely give this book a read.
When it comes to fiction, thrillers, crime and mystery novels sits at the top of my favourite genres list. ‘Bloody Scotland’ is a compilation of short crime stories. This book is an anthology which carries stories by some eminent Scottish crime fiction authors.
The backdrop for all the stories is set in historic times of Scotland. The authors weaved some gripping crime stories which are set in actual places in Scotland. If you’re from Scotland and have ever been to the places mentioned in the book, well, let’s just say you might be uneasy on your next visit, perhaps.
Each story is supported by a picture of the actual place on which the story is based on. This adds more of a realistic element to the plotline. What better way to experience a story than visualising the actual place, right? This also helps to set an image of the place and we don’t have to imagine something which is actually not there. A combination of reality and fiction.
Since, I am not very familiar with these places, it took me a while to understand the significance of the places and to understand what the names meant. But people who are accustomed to these places would be able to connect with the stories better, I believe.
The writing style of each of the authors were very different from what I have come across of crime writers from other countries. The narration was also very different from what I am used to reading, in a good way, of course.
Overall, I really liked the stories. They were all high with mysteries and suspense. But, the stories weren’t exactly bone-chilling or something that would trouble me while sleeping at night. I like my crime stories to be a bit more strong and intense. But, this collection of 12 short crime stories were also very good.
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.7
Recommended for crime fiction and short story lovers. Also, if you like to read stories that has that old historic feeling to them, you can definitely give this book a read.
When it comes to fiction, thrillers, crime and mystery novels sits at the top of my favourite genres list. ‘Bloody Scotland’ is a compilation of short crime stories. This book is an anthology which carries stories by some eminent Scottish crime fiction authors.
The backdrop for all the stories is set in historic times of Scotland. The authors weaved some gripping crime stories which are set in actual places in Scotland. If you’re from Scotland and have ever been to the places mentioned in the book, well, let’s just say you might be uneasy on your next visit, perhaps.
Each story is supported by a picture of the actual place on which the story is based on. This adds more of a realistic element to the plotline. What better way to experience a story than visualising the actual place, right? This also helps to set an image of the place and we don’t have to imagine something which is actually not there. A combination of reality and fiction.
Since, I am not very familiar with these places, it took me a while to understand the significance of the places and to understand what the names meant. But people who are accustomed to these places would be able to connect with the stories better, I believe.
The writing style of each of the authors were very different from what I have come across of crime writers from other countries. The narration was also very different from what I am used to reading, in a good way, of course.
Overall, I really liked the stories. They were all high with mysteries and suspense. But, the stories weren’t exactly bone-chilling or something that would trouble me while sleeping at night. I like my crime stories to be a bit more strong and intense. But, this collection of 12 short crime stories were also very good.
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.7
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May 21, 2018Wanderlust in books // Bloody Scotland has 12 short stories written by Scotland's finest crime writers - what really intrigued me (since I'm not one for crime fiction) is that every story uses one of Scotland's *real* iconic/historic sites to tell a thrilling fictional tale. There are pictures of the said sites, making the reading experience more visual & fun. Also, there's detailed description of the sites (along with visiting times) given towards the end of the book. SO COOL, RIGHT?
About the stories, it has a lukewarm start where classic crime/horror plots are used and since we've read so many of such plots, the book failed to keep me intrigued. Other stories however made up for the start.
Some worth mentioning are;
Come Friendly Bombs by Louise Welsh, which touches upon how war changes people & how misery brings out the darkness in even the best of the people. This was a particularly dark & grim tale that I very much enjoyed.
Sanctuary by Sara Sheridan which is about a woman who returns to the city she grew up in, to work as a caretaker of Kinneil House. We discover how from not belonging elsewhere, not being able to call a place home she finds her sanctuary in this old monumental house. It also shows how some decisions we take are spur of the moment (which kind of took me by surprise.)
All in all, it's a really good mix of stories ranging from psychological thrillers to stories of revenge/murder + more
Apart from the stories what I really enjoyed about the book was googling all the sites around which the stories were based, reading up on their history, looking up 27839393 of their images. So virtual trip to Scotland done, and my bucket list for the real trip is set! ;)
If you love visiting other countries via books or are someone who loves dark tales, this book is for you! Thank you BEE BOOKS for sending a review copy of this book.
About the stories, it has a lukewarm start where classic crime/horror plots are used and since we've read so many of such plots, the book failed to keep me intrigued. Other stories however made up for the start.
Some worth mentioning are;
Come Friendly Bombs by Louise Welsh, which touches upon how war changes people & how misery brings out the darkness in even the best of the people. This was a particularly dark & grim tale that I very much enjoyed.
Sanctuary by Sara Sheridan which is about a woman who returns to the city she grew up in, to work as a caretaker of Kinneil House. We discover how from not belonging elsewhere, not being able to call a place home she finds her sanctuary in this old monumental house. It also shows how some decisions we take are spur of the moment (which kind of took me by surprise.)
All in all, it's a really good mix of stories ranging from psychological thrillers to stories of revenge/murder + more
Apart from the stories what I really enjoyed about the book was googling all the sites around which the stories were based, reading up on their history, looking up 27839393 of their images. So virtual trip to Scotland done, and my bucket list for the real trip is set! ;)
If you love visiting other countries via books or are someone who loves dark tales, this book is for you! Thank you BEE BOOKS for sending a review copy of this book.
December 31, 2020
This is a collection of short stories packed with mystery, murder, sorrow and intrigue. I love the vivid descriptions of some of the locations. The writing brings to life the quaint charm and dialect of some of the areas in and around Scotland. The book also provides an index of sorts that gives you more information on each of the authors as well as the locations visited in some of the stories.
There were two or three stories in the book that I did not care for. The very first story was a bit long and hard to follow and I almost gave up since that was my initial impression of the book. Fortunately I pressed on and it was worth it. What I loved was that each story was unique and eerie in its own way. Some of the tales were very modern and some had a more mythical feel. They all had a similar kind of 'that did not just happen' ending to them. Definitely a great read!
There were two or three stories in the book that I did not care for. The very first story was a bit long and hard to follow and I almost gave up since that was my initial impression of the book. Fortunately I pressed on and it was worth it. What I loved was that each story was unique and eerie in its own way. Some of the tales were very modern and some had a more mythical feel. They all had a similar kind of 'that did not just happen' ending to them. Definitely a great read!
January 19, 2018
Curate’s egg time. It’s always the case that a collection of shot stories will be patchy, but I should have remembered that it is very unusual for Crime short stories to work. Even mistresses of the craft like Dorothy L Sayers and Agatha Christie knew that they tended to be fairly insubstantial vol-au-vents.
So it is with this collection even though the premise is good. But at least you’ll get some ideas of places to visit.
So it is with this collection even though the premise is good. But at least you’ll get some ideas of places to visit.
July 22, 2021
A great line up of Scottish authors and a neat premise - each linking their short story to a specific heritage landmark. All the stories are good, but it doesn't add up to much, and despite the undoubted talent on display, it's a shame none of the stories is either outstanding or particularly memorable. Perfectly enjoyable though.
February 1, 2023
As an avid reader of thrillers, I have made aquaintance with most of these authors [in fact Val, Lin, Doug and Stuart I would rate as some of my favourite authors]
This is a good collection of stories with recognised buildings as the mainstay of the stoty.
Cannabilism, revenge, siblimg murder, terrorism and bird behavior are all covered so a great variety.
This is a good collection of stories with recognised buildings as the mainstay of the stoty.
Cannabilism, revenge, siblimg murder, terrorism and bird behavior are all covered so a great variety.
August 23, 2024
I’ve probably read most of the authors, who in this book provided a number of interesting and likeable stories from various places of interest across Scotland. Some of the stories were much better than some of the others. My favourite was the story by Denise Mina set within Edinburgh Castle!
June 16, 2019
Brilliant collection of short stories. My faves are, Stevenson's
Candle, Come friendly bombs and nemo me impune lacessit. All stories were intriguing and compelling.
Candle, Come friendly bombs and nemo me impune lacessit. All stories were intriguing and compelling.
February 4, 2025
Fabulous collection of short stories - would highly recommend as its a shocking read!!!
October 5, 2017
I was really eager to read Bloody Scotland for so many reasons. Short Stories! Crime writing! Scotland! Ticks all the boxes for me. I adore short stories as they are both intense and capture so much story in such a short amount of words. This is what made Bloody Scotland a brilliant read for me. All the authors managed to perfectly capture the essence of each location with short stories true to their own writing style. Each piece is linked in with the real history of every building and it was truly fascinating. These stories encapsulate the significance of each site through the medium of a cracking crime/thriller story. This is a must read for every crime fan.
Inspired by the influences that buildings/locations have on our memories and psyche, Bloody Scotland brings together some of the most talented and relevant Scottish authors working today. I was already excited by the familiarity of authors such as Chris Brookmyre, Stuart MacBride and E S Thomson, but it was actually the opportunity to indulge in new authors that made this book for me. Especially Denise Mina and her narrative centred around Edinburgh Castle, so good! I also appreciated the fact that we got insights to each locations at the end of the book, that brought the whole atmosphere of the book together for me.
In Bloody Scotland we get 12 short stories inspired by 12 distinctly different locations. Each narrative is crafted in a way that honours the buildings memory and the style of writing each author is comfortable with. From Stuart MacBride and his ominous, fearsome and nail-biting story surrounding Kinnaird Head Lighthouse. To Chris Brookmyre’s bold, brash and intense hostage situation that takes place with the fortified walls of Bothwell Castle.
Bloody Scotland has a story to suit each and every crime reader. A vast selection of tones, atmospheres and themes are hiding within to treat the reader to a fascinating read. Obviously being a short story collection, not every story connected with me but it is safe to say I appreciated the details behind each tale. Whether it was mythology, ghost stories and rebellion or darker themes like violence, cannibalism, abuse or murder. The stories are there to evoke the readers imagination, to connect with each site with captivating stories. As I mention before, my favourite stand out story has to be Denise Misa’s story that takes place in Edinburgh castle. It is a story that captured my full attention and wouldn’t let go even when I had to put the book down. I was shocked by the characters and impressed that Misa managed to use the castle to its full effect in a short narrative.
Whether it is the setting of a hostage of situation or a place that reminds you how much you love your daughter, we all have locations that mean the world to us or remind us of harder time; times we would rather forget. When we walk across the threshold of the past, all the memories flood back either fully formed or broken and misshapen. That is what Bloody Scotland is all about. That and spinning great crime stories that the reader can sink their teeth into. Highly recommend to a wide base of fans from crime and drama to horror, ghost stories and psychological thriller. I also appreciated the fact that we got insights to each location at the end, with pictures and information which pulled the whole book together. I hope there is going to be more additions to collection in the future, I will be ready.
Inspired by the influences that buildings/locations have on our memories and psyche, Bloody Scotland brings together some of the most talented and relevant Scottish authors working today. I was already excited by the familiarity of authors such as Chris Brookmyre, Stuart MacBride and E S Thomson, but it was actually the opportunity to indulge in new authors that made this book for me. Especially Denise Mina and her narrative centred around Edinburgh Castle, so good! I also appreciated the fact that we got insights to each locations at the end of the book, that brought the whole atmosphere of the book together for me.
In Bloody Scotland we get 12 short stories inspired by 12 distinctly different locations. Each narrative is crafted in a way that honours the buildings memory and the style of writing each author is comfortable with. From Stuart MacBride and his ominous, fearsome and nail-biting story surrounding Kinnaird Head Lighthouse. To Chris Brookmyre’s bold, brash and intense hostage situation that takes place with the fortified walls of Bothwell Castle.
Bloody Scotland has a story to suit each and every crime reader. A vast selection of tones, atmospheres and themes are hiding within to treat the reader to a fascinating read. Obviously being a short story collection, not every story connected with me but it is safe to say I appreciated the details behind each tale. Whether it was mythology, ghost stories and rebellion or darker themes like violence, cannibalism, abuse or murder. The stories are there to evoke the readers imagination, to connect with each site with captivating stories. As I mention before, my favourite stand out story has to be Denise Misa’s story that takes place in Edinburgh castle. It is a story that captured my full attention and wouldn’t let go even when I had to put the book down. I was shocked by the characters and impressed that Misa managed to use the castle to its full effect in a short narrative.
Whether it is the setting of a hostage of situation or a place that reminds you how much you love your daughter, we all have locations that mean the world to us or remind us of harder time; times we would rather forget. When we walk across the threshold of the past, all the memories flood back either fully formed or broken and misshapen. That is what Bloody Scotland is all about. That and spinning great crime stories that the reader can sink their teeth into. Highly recommend to a wide base of fans from crime and drama to horror, ghost stories and psychological thriller. I also appreciated the fact that we got insights to each location at the end, with pictures and information which pulled the whole book together. I hope there is going to be more additions to collection in the future, I will be ready.
February 8, 2021
This book contains stories by several of my favourite writers and so I was looking forward to reading these pieces. It was a disappointment because although the writing was stellar (with one exception, an incomprehensible piece by Craig Robertson), the plots were lacklustre (with one exception, a striking short story by Chris Brookmyre). So, the writing was worth a 5, the plotting was worth a 1. Hence my overall rating of 3. It did introduce me to Chris Brookmyre, a writer basically unknown in North America; I have bought a longer novel by him to see if his quality holds up in a longer format.
June 23, 2018
More like a 3.5. Some stories were very much a miss, and a few were an absolute hit. Some I wondered why they were even considered crime stories. At the very least, I now have a short list of new-to-me Scottish crime writers to check out having loved their stories in here (I.e. Louise Welsh, Denise Mina, Stuart MacBride...)
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