For the latest Scots Whay Hae! Ali spoke to crime writer, and returning guest, Douglas Skelton to talk about the latest entry in the 'Rebecca Connolly' series of crime thrillers, 'The Hollow Mountain' which is out now, published on the Polygon imprint of Birlinn Ltd.
Douglas talks about the origins of Rebecca Connolly and the inspiration behind them, the importance of place and returning to Glasgow as a setting, the true stories which are central to each novel, constructing and developing memorable characters, having a strong supporting cast, the pleasure taken in cultural referencing, and more.
The two also discuss Douglas' other current series, the 'A Company of Rogues' books (the latest of which is 'A Grave for a Thief', published by Canelo), the challenges, and the freedom, that comes with writing historical fiction, and the inspirations, (literary and otherwise) behind these books.
He is also very honest about the highs and lows of writing, and what's coming next. Douglas has long been one of our favourite writers, and it's always a treat to have a conversation with him. If you don't know his work then we hope this podcast will persuade you to investigate further.
For full details, including all the ways to listen, go to https://www.scotswhayhae.com
Douglas Skelton