If you enjoy reading books by Ian Rankin then you might also like the following authors:
Peter James is known for his suspenseful and intricately plotted crime novels. His Roy Grace series, set in Brighton, resonates with Ian Rankin’s gritty storytelling and attention to detail, making it a great choice for Rankin fans.
A fellow Scotswoman, Val McDermid is a master of psychological thrillers. Her deeply immersive and complex narratives offer a dark and compelling experience, much like Ian Rankin’s works.
Stuart MacBride’s Aberdeen-based crime novels are infused with dark humor and a touch of grit. His Logan McRae series presents vivid characters and a strong sense of place, appealing to readers who enjoy Ian Rankin’s Edinburgh tales.
Known for the Dublin Murder Squad series, Tana French writes beautifully atmospheric and psychologically rich mysteries. Her character-driven stories will appeal to readers who appreciate Rankin’s nuanced character portrayals.
This Norwegian author creates brooding, suspenseful thrillers, most famously featuring detective Harry Hole. His books often explore complex themes and intricate plots, similar to Ian Rankin’s style.
Denise Mina, another Scottish talent, writes gripping crime fiction set in Glasgow. Her novels often delve into social issues, providing a gritty and realistic perspective akin to that found in Ian Rankin’s books.
Michael Connelly is known for his hard-hitting crime novels featuring detective Harry Bosch. His meticulous attention to detail and expertly crafted plots resonate with fans of Ian Rankin’s engaging stories.
Best known for the Vera and Shetland series, Ann Cleeves creates atmospheric crime novels that capture the nuances of place and character, akin to Ian Rankin’s immersive Edinburgh settings.
Mark Billingham’s Tom Thorne series offers intriguing plots, well-crafted characters, and a touch of humor. Readers who enjoy Rankin’s layered narratives will find Billingham to be a kindred spirit.
An Irish author with a knack for sharp dialogue and dark humor, Ken Bruen’s Jack Taylor series provides a gritty and raw depiction of Galway, appealing to those who appreciate Ian Rankin’s realistic portrayals of Edinburgh.
With her intricate plots and deep psychological insights, Ruth Rendell is a towering figure in crime fiction. Her ability to explore the darker aspects of human nature will captivate Rankin’s readers.
Known for the Sean Duffy series, Adrian McKinty skillfully combines historical context with a gripping narrative. His books, set in Northern Ireland, offer a nuanced perspective similar to Rankin’s approach to Edinburgh.
Henning Mankell’s Wallander series is celebrated for its atmospheric settings and complex, brooding character development, traits that resonate with fans of Ian Rankin’s work.
Elly Griffiths is known for her Ruth Galloway novels, which blend archaeology and crime in the English countryside. Her character-driven mysteries offer a rich storytelling experience similar to Ian Rankin’s.
Another Scottish crime writer, James Oswald writes the Detective Inspector McLean series. His novels often incorporate a hint of the supernatural, maintaining a balance of suspense and engaging storytelling reminiscent of Rankin’s books.