This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. Hide And Seek

   An Inspector Rebus Novel

   

   In "Hide And Seek," readers are plunged into the dark, gritty streets of Edinburgh, where Detective John Rebus finds himself embroiled in a perplexing case. The discovery of a drug addict's corpse in a squat, posed in a hideously symbolic manner, draws Rebus into the murky depths of the city's drug trade and the high society that profits from it. As he delves deeper, navigating through a labyrinth of corruption, betrayal, and criminal intrigue, Rebus is forced to confront not only the demons lurking within the city’s underbelly but also those within himself. This gripping narrative masterfully combines a complex mystery with a profound exploration of the human condition, showcasing the detective's relentless pursuit of justice amidst the chaos.

   The 7197th Greatest Book of All Time

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2. 2. Black And Blue

   

   This novel is a gripping entry in a series featuring a Scottish detective, delving into a complex web of murder, corruption, and the haunting shadows of past crimes. The protagonist, a seasoned detective, finds himself embroiled in a challenging investigation that draws connections between a recent murder case and a notorious, unsolved series of killings from decades ago. As he navigates the murky waters of police politics and societal pressures, he must also confront his personal demons and the toll his career has taken on his life. Set against the backdrop of Scotland's gritty urban landscapes, the story masterfully combines elements of mystery, thriller, and police procedural, showcasing the detective's relentless pursuit of justice amidst the moral ambiguities of law enforcement.

   The 7842nd Greatest Book of All Time

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3. 3. The Hanging Garden

   

   Set against the gritty backdrop of Edinburgh, this gripping crime novel follows Detective Inspector John Rebus as he navigates a tangled web of crime, corruption, and personal demons. Tasked with investigating a suspected war criminal and a brutal gangland turf war, Rebus finds himself drawn into a complex case that challenges his moral compass and tests his resilience. As he delves deeper, he must confront his own past and the haunting memories that threaten to unravel him, all while trying to protect those he cares about from the dangerous forces at play.

   The 7944th Greatest Book of All Time

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4. 4. Exit Music

   

   In "Exit Music," readers are plunged into the gritty streets of Edinburgh, where Detective Inspector John Rebus faces the twilight of his career. With retirement looming, Rebus is drawn into a complex case following the murder of a dissident Russian poet, which spirals into a high-stakes investigation involving power, corruption, and the dangerous intersection of politics and big money. As Rebus navigates the murky waters of international intrigue, he must also confront his own demons and the realization that in order to solve the case, he may have to cross lines he's never crossed before. This gripping tale not only explores the intricacies of crime and justice but also serves as a poignant commentary on the challenges of change and the inevitability of the end.

   The 9609th Greatest Book of All Time

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5. 5. Knots and Crosses

   An Inspector Rebus Novel

   

   In this crime novel, a seasoned detective in Scotland is tasked with solving a series of gruesome murders of young girls. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he realizes that the killings are linked to his own past and his time as a soldier. With a blend of personal demons, cryptic clues, and a ruthless killer on the loose, the detective must unravel the truth before more lives are lost.

   The 14232nd Greatest Book of All Time

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6. 6. A Song For The Dark Times

   

   In this gripping tale, a retired detective finds himself drawn back into the world of crime and mystery when his estranged daughter calls him with troubling news about her missing partner. As he delves into the investigation, he uncovers a web of secrets and lies that stretch back decades, challenging his perceptions of family and loyalty. Set against the haunting backdrop of the Scottish Highlands, the story weaves together themes of redemption, betrayal, and the enduring quest for justice, all while exploring the complex dynamics of personal relationships.

   The 15559th Greatest Book of All Time

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7. 7. Fleshmarket Close

   An Inspector Rebus Novel

   

   In this gripping crime novel, a detective inspector based in Edinburgh, Scotland is working on multiple cases simultaneously. He investigates the murder of an illegal immigrant, the disappearance of a refugee, and the murder of a local gangster. As he delves deeper, he uncovers a web of corruption, political conspiracy, and human trafficking. Throughout the story, the inspector battles personal demons and navigates the complexities of the Scottish legal system.

   The 17114th Greatest Book of All Time

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8. 8. Westwind

   

   In a gripping tale of espionage and suspense, the narrative unfolds around a satellite crash that sets off a chain of mysterious events, drawing together an unlikely duo—a disillusioned space scientist and a tenacious journalist. As they delve deeper into the conspiracy, they uncover a web of deceit and danger that stretches across nations, threatening global security. With time running out, they must navigate a world of shadowy operatives and hidden agendas to expose the truth and prevent a catastrophic outcome. The story is a thrilling exploration of trust, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of justice.

   The 17114th Greatest Book of All Time

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9. 9. Even Dogs In The Wild

   

   In this gripping crime novel, retired detective John Rebus is drawn back into the world of investigation when a former adversary, "Big Ger" Cafferty, receives a threatening note and narrowly escapes an assassination attempt. As Rebus teams up with his old colleague Siobhan Clarke and Malcolm Fox from the Complaints, they delve into a complex web of murder, revenge, and family secrets. The investigation leads them through Edinburgh's underworld, revealing connections between a series of seemingly unrelated crimes and a shadowy figure from the past. With tension mounting, Rebus must navigate the blurred lines between justice and vengeance to uncover the truth.
10. 10. Saints Of The Shadow Bible

    

    In this gripping crime novel, Detective Inspector John Rebus finds himself embroiled in a complex investigation that intertwines the past with the present. As Rebus faces the possibility of retirement, he is drawn back into a case involving his former colleagues from the "Saints of the Shadow Bible," a group of detectives whose methods were as questionable as their results. When a new inquiry threatens to expose their past misdeeds, Rebus must navigate a web of old loyalties and new alliances, all while confronting the moral ambiguities of justice and the personal cost of uncovering the truth.

11. 11. Standing In Another Man's Grave

    

    In this gripping crime novel, retired detective John Rebus is drawn back into the world of unsolved cases when a woman approaches him about her missing daughter, linking it to a series of disappearances along the A9 highway in Scotland. As Rebus delves deeper, he finds himself navigating the murky waters of police politics, old rivalries, and the dark underbelly of society. With his characteristic tenacity and unconventional methods, Rebus races against time to uncover the truth, confronting both the ghosts of his past and the evolving landscape of modern policing.

12. 12. The Naming Of The Dead

    

    Set against the backdrop of the 2005 G8 summit in Scotland, this gripping crime novel follows the dogged detective as he navigates a web of political intrigue, personal vendettas, and a series of mysterious deaths. As world leaders gather to discuss global issues, the detective finds himself embroiled in a complex investigation that threatens to expose dark secrets and test his moral compass. With tensions running high and time running out, he must unravel the truth before more lives are lost, all while confronting his own demons and the pressures of a city on edge.

13. 13. A Question Of Blood

    

    In this gripping crime novel, Detective Inspector John Rebus finds himself embroiled in a complex investigation when a former soldier opens fire at a private school, killing two students and injuring another before turning the gun on himself. As Rebus delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a tangled web of secrets and lies, revealing connections to his own past and a shadowy world of military intrigue. With his personal life in turmoil and his career on the line, Rebus must navigate a labyrinth of deception to uncover the truth behind the seemingly senseless act of violence.

14. 14. Resurrection Men

    An Inspector Rebus Novel

    

    In this gripping crime novel, Detective Inspector John Rebus finds himself in hot water after a violent outburst during an interrogation. As a result, he's sent to a rehabilitation program for "resurrection men," officers who have become problematic. While there, Rebus is tasked with solving a cold case alongside other disgraced detectives, but he soon discovers that the program is not what it seems. As he delves deeper into the investigation, Rebus uncovers a web of corruption and deceit that reaches into the highest echelons of the police force, challenging his notions of justice and loyalty.
15. 15. The Falls

    

    In this gripping crime novel, the disappearance of a young art student in Edinburgh sets off a complex investigation led by the astute Detective Inspector John Rebus. As Rebus delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of secrets involving an online role-playing game, a mysterious wooden doll, and the city's elite. With his characteristic tenacity, Rebus navigates through layers of deception and intrigue, confronting both personal and professional challenges, as he races against time to unravel the truth behind the student's vanishing and the sinister forces at play.

16. 16. Set In Darkness

    

    In this gripping crime novel, Detective Inspector John Rebus finds himself entangled in a complex web of political intrigue and murder as Scotland prepares for its first parliament in 300 years. The discovery of a body in a long-abandoned building and the subsequent murder of a prospective Member of Parliament lead Rebus into the murky depths of Edinburgh's past and present. As he navigates through layers of corruption, ambition, and betrayal, Rebus must confront his own demons while unraveling a case that threatens to shake the very foundations of the city's political landscape.

17. 17. Death Is Not The End

    

    In this gripping novella, Detective Inspector John Rebus finds himself drawn into the mysterious disappearance of a young man in the Scottish town of Fife. As Rebus delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of secrets and lies that challenge his investigative skills and test his moral compass. The story unfolds with Rankin's signature blend of suspense and intricate character development, leading to a climax that questions the very nature of justice and redemption.

18. 18. Dead Souls

    

    In this gripping crime novel, Detective Inspector John Rebus finds himself entangled in a web of past sins and present dangers as he navigates the murky underworld of Edinburgh. The story unfolds with Rebus confronting a series of interconnected cases, including the release of a notorious pedophile, the mysterious death of a former police officer, and the haunting presence of a long-lost friend. As Rebus delves deeper, he is forced to confront his own demons, questioning the very nature of justice and redemption. With its intricate plot and richly drawn characters, the narrative explores themes of guilt, morality, and the inescapable shadows of one's past.

19. 19. Let It Bleed

    An Inspector Rebus Novel

    

    In this gripping crime novel, Detective Inspector John Rebus finds himself embroiled in a complex web of political intrigue and personal vendettas as he investigates a series of seemingly unrelated deaths in Edinburgh. As Rebus delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a sinister conspiracy involving powerful figures and a cover-up that threatens to shake the very foundations of the city. With his career and life on the line, Rebus must navigate a treacherous landscape of deceit and corruption to uncover the truth, all while battling his own demons and the relentless pressures of his job.
20. 20. Mortal Causes

    

    Set against the backdrop of Edinburgh's dark underbelly, this gripping crime novel follows Detective Inspector John Rebus as he delves into the brutal murder of a young man found in the city's subterranean depths. The investigation leads Rebus into a tangled web of sectarian violence, political intrigue, and personal vendettas, revealing the city's hidden connections to the Troubles in Northern Ireland. As Rebus navigates through a maze of deceit and danger, he must confront his own demons while racing against time to prevent further bloodshed.

21. 21. The Black Book

    

    In this gripping crime novel, Detective Inspector John Rebus finds himself embroiled in a complex investigation following the discovery of a mysterious black notebook. The notebook, belonging to a colleague who has been brutally attacked, contains cryptic notes that hint at a long-buried secret tied to a notorious unsolved murder case. As Rebus delves deeper, he navigates the murky waters of Edinburgh's criminal underworld, confronting old adversaries and unearthing hidden truths. The story weaves a tapestry of suspense, intrigue, and moral ambiguity, challenging Rebus to confront his own demons while seeking justice.

22. 22. A Good Hanging

    

    Set in the gritty streets of Edinburgh, this collection of short stories follows the astute and tenacious Detective Inspector John Rebus as he navigates a series of perplexing cases. Each tale delves into the darker side of human nature, exploring themes of justice, morality, and the complexities of crime-solving. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for uncovering hidden truths, Rebus confronts a variety of challenges, from mysterious deaths to intricate conspiracies, all while grappling with his own personal demons. The stories are rich in atmosphere, offering a vivid portrayal of the city and its inhabitants.

23. 23. Strip Jack

    

    In this gripping detective novel, Inspector John Rebus finds himself embroiled in a complex case involving a prominent politician caught in a scandalous situation. As Rebus delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a tangled web of deceit, betrayal, and hidden agendas that extend far beyond the initial scandal. With his characteristic tenacity and sharp intuition, Rebus navigates the murky waters of Edinburgh's political and social elite, determined to uncover the truth while confronting personal demons and professional challenges along the way.

24. 24. Tooth And Nail

    An Inspector Rebus Novel

    

    In this gripping crime thriller, Detective Inspector John Rebus is called from his usual beat in Edinburgh to assist the London police in capturing a brutal serial killer known as "The Wolfman." As Rebus navigates the unfamiliar and bustling streets of London, he finds himself entangled in a web of deceit, facing both the challenges of a city on edge and the complexities of his own personal demons. With the pressure mounting and the body count rising, Rebus must rely on his instincts and experience to unravel the mystery before the killer strikes again, all while confronting the shadows of his past that threaten to consume him.
25. 25. East Of Ealing

    

    In a world where the supernatural and the mundane coexist, a peculiar detective agency finds itself embroiled in a series of bizarre and otherworldly cases. The narrative unfolds in a vibrant and chaotic urban setting, where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur. The protagonists, a quirky team of investigators, navigate through a labyrinth of eccentric characters and mysterious occurrences, all while grappling with their own personal dilemmas and the ever-present threat of dark forces. With a blend of humor, intrigue, and a touch of the surreal, the story explores themes of identity, belonging, and the eternal struggle between good and evil.

26. 26. The Brentford Triangle

    

    In a quaint English town, a seemingly ordinary pub becomes the epicenter of a cosmic battle between good and evil. As strange occurrences unfold, a group of quirky locals, including a pair of unlikely heroes, find themselves embroiled in a bizarre adventure involving ancient prophecies, interdimensional beings, and a mysterious triangle that holds the key to the universe's fate. With humor and wit, the story explores themes of friendship, destiny, and the extraordinary lurking within the mundane.

27. 27. The Brentford Chainstore Massacre

    

    In a quirky blend of humor and mystery, the story unfolds in the eccentric town of Brentford, where a seemingly ordinary chain store becomes the epicenter of bizarre occurrences. The local residents, a colorful cast of characters, find themselves entangled in a web of supernatural events and peculiar happenings. As the line between reality and the fantastical blurs, the townsfolk must band together to unravel the mystery behind the strange phenomena, leading to unexpected revelations and a thrilling conclusion.

28. 28. The Sprouts Of Wrath

    

    In a small, seemingly idyllic Scottish village, a series of mysterious events begin to unravel the tightly-knit community, revealing long-buried secrets and simmering tensions. As the local detective delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a web of deceit, betrayal, and hidden motives that threaten to tear the village apart. With a blend of dark humor and sharp wit, the story explores the complexities of human nature and the consequences of unchecked ambition.

29. 29. The Antipope

    

    Set in a small Scottish town, this darkly comedic novel follows the misadventures of a group of eccentric characters who find themselves entangled in a bizarre series of events. The story centers around a pub landlord whose life takes an unexpected turn when a mysterious figure claiming to be the Antipope arrives, bringing chaos and hilarity in his wake. As the townsfolk grapple with the absurdity of the situation, they are forced to confront their own beliefs and the peculiarities of their everyday lives, resulting in a satirical exploration of faith, community, and the human condition.
30. 30. Rebus

    

    In this gripping crime novel, a seasoned detective finds himself embroiled in a complex web of deceit and danger as he navigates the gritty streets of Edinburgh. Tasked with solving a series of brutal murders, he must confront his own demons while unraveling a conspiracy that reaches into the highest echelons of power. As the body count rises, the detective's relentless pursuit of justice leads him to question the very nature of truth and morality, culminating in a thrilling and unexpected climax.

31. 31. Knots & Crosses

    

    In this gripping crime thriller, Detective Inspector John Rebus finds himself entangled in a chilling investigation as a series of brutal murders terrorize Edinburgh. Haunted by his own past and battling personal demons, Rebus must navigate a web of secrets and lies, where every clue seems to lead back to him. As the killer taunts him with cryptic messages and symbolic knots and crosses, Rebus races against time to unravel the mystery before more lives are claimed. The novel delves deep into the complexities of human nature, exploring themes of guilt, redemption, and the thin line between justice and vengeance.

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32. 32. The Rise

    

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33. 33. The Killing Plains

    

    In a gripping tale set against the rugged backdrop of the Scottish Highlands, a seasoned detective finds himself embroiled in a complex web of deceit and danger. As he delves into the mysterious disappearance of a local farmer, he uncovers a series of dark secrets that threaten to unravel the tight-knit community. With each twist and turn, the detective must navigate through layers of betrayal and hidden motives, all while confronting his own personal demons. The narrative masterfully weaves together elements of suspense, intrigue, and the haunting beauty of the landscape, culminating in a thrilling and unexpected climax.

34. 34. Midnight And Blue

    

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35. 35. The Flood

    

    Set against the backdrop of a small Scottish town, this gripping narrative delves into the complexities of human relationships and the haunting shadows of the past. The story follows Mary Miller, a woman with a mysterious past, as she navigates the intricacies of her life, marked by secrets and the weight of societal judgment. As the town grapples with its own struggles, Mary's journey becomes a poignant exploration of identity, redemption, and the enduring impact of history on the present. The novel weaves a tapestry of suspense and emotion, capturing the essence of a community on the brink of transformation.

36. 36. Doors Open

    

    In this gripping heist thriller, a group of art enthusiasts, led by a bored software millionaire, concoct an audacious plan to "liberate" valuable paintings from a Scottish art warehouse. As they navigate the complexities of their meticulously planned operation, they find themselves entangled in a web of deception, greed, and unexpected alliances. The story unfolds with a blend of tension and humor, exploring themes of ambition, loyalty, and the blurred lines between right and wrong, ultimately leading to a thrilling and unpredictable climax.

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37. 37. Watchman

    

    Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, this gripping thriller follows Miles Flint, a disillusioned British intelligence officer, as he navigates the murky waters of espionage and betrayal. Tasked with surveillance operations that seem increasingly futile, Flint becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse when a mission goes awry. As he delves deeper into the shadowy world of spies and double agents, Flint must confront his own moral compass and decide where his loyalties truly lie, all while trying to stay one step ahead of those who would see him fall.

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38. 38. Beggars Banquet

    

    This gripping collection of short stories delves into the gritty underbelly of Edinburgh, exploring the lives of its inhabitants through a series of dark and compelling narratives. Each tale is a masterclass in suspense, weaving intricate plots that reveal the complexities of human nature and the moral ambiguities that lie beneath the surface. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for capturing the essence of the city, the stories offer a vivid portrayal of crime, justice, and the thin line that separates right from wrong.

39. 39. A Heart Full Of Headstones

    

    In this gripping crime thriller, a seasoned detective finds himself embroiled in a complex web of corruption and deceit within the police force. As he navigates the murky waters of betrayal and moral ambiguity, he must confront his own past and the ghosts that haunt him. With time running out and the stakes higher than ever, he races against the clock to uncover the truth, all while grappling with the personal demons that threaten to consume him. This tale of suspense and intrigue delves deep into the human psyche, exploring themes of loyalty, redemption, and the fine line between right and wrong.

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40. 40. The Impossible Dead

    

    In this gripping crime novel, a team of internal affairs officers is dispatched to investigate potential corruption within the ranks of the Scottish police force. As they delve deeper into the case, they uncover a web of deceit and betrayal that stretches back decades, involving political intrigue and a long-buried murder. The narrative weaves through layers of secrecy and danger, challenging the investigators to confront their own moral compasses while racing against time to bring justice to light. With its intricate plot and richly drawn characters, the story explores themes of loyalty, truth, and the shadows of the past.

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41. 41. In A House Of Lies

    

    In this gripping crime thriller, a long-buried skeleton is discovered in an abandoned car, reigniting a cold case that was thought to be closed. As Detective Inspector Siobhan Clarke and the retired but ever-curious John Rebus delve into the investigation, they uncover a web of corruption, deceit, and betrayal that stretches across the police force and beyond. With the past and present colliding, the duo must navigate a maze of lies and secrets to uncover the truth, all while battling their own personal demons and the relentless pressure of those who want the case to remain unsolved.

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42. 42. The Complaints

    

    Set in the gritty streets of Edinburgh, this gripping crime novel follows Malcolm Fox, a dedicated detective in the Complaints and Conduct Department, tasked with investigating fellow police officers. When Fox is assigned to probe a young detective suspected of corruption, he finds himself embroiled in a complex web of deceit, betrayal, and murder. As he delves deeper, Fox uncovers a conspiracy that challenges his moral compass and threatens his career, forcing him to navigate a dangerous path where trust is a rare commodity and the line between right and wrong is blurred.

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43. 43. Rather Be The Devil

    

    In this gripping crime novel, retired detective John Rebus finds himself drawn back into the world of unsolved mysteries when a cold case from the 1970s resurfaces. As he delves into the murder of a glamorous socialite, Rebus navigates the murky waters of Edinburgh's criminal underworld, confronting old enemies and allies alike. With his health in decline and the clock ticking, Rebus must unravel a web of deceit and corruption that stretches across decades, all while grappling with his own personal demons and the ever-present shadow of mortality.

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44. 44. Ian Rankin's Inspector Rebus Collection

    

    Set against the gritty backdrop of Edinburgh, this collection follows the tenacious and often brooding Detective Inspector as he delves into the city's underbelly to solve a series of complex and darkly woven crimes. Each story intricately explores the moral ambiguities and personal struggles faced by the detective, as he navigates a world filled with corruption, betrayal, and redemption. With a keen eye for detail and a relentless pursuit of justice, the tales offer a compelling blend of suspense, character depth, and atmospheric storytelling, capturing the essence of a city where secrets lurk in every shadow.

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45. 45. Mind Over Medicine

    

    A provocative exploration of how thoughts, beliefs, emotions and social context can influence physical health, drawing on scientific studies of the placebo effect, stress physiology, and mind-body interactions. The book argues that meaning, expectations and relationships can trigger real biological changes that promote healing or illness, and it offers practical guidance for harnessing those effects through stress reduction, self-care, shifting limiting beliefs, and partnering with conventional medicine. Overall it encourages patient empowerment and lifestyle changes to support resilience and recovery.

46. 46. A Good Hanging And Other Stories

    

    A collection of tightly plotted short crime stories centered on a hard-bitten Edinburgh detective, following his investigations through the city's neighborhoods, courts and backrooms. The tales range from brutal murders to quieter, character-driven cases, balancing noir atmosphere and dry, often dark humour while probing the detective's flaws, relationships and moral compromises. Recurring supporting figures and vivid local detail tie the stories together, giving a strong sense of place and a cumulative portrait of a complex investigator.

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