7am Read This: John Rebus Will Outlive Ian Rankin
Jun 21, 2025
Join bestselling crime writer Ian Rankin, creator of the iconic Detective John Rebus, in an engaging conversation about his latest novel, 'Midnight and Blue.' Rankin shares the transformation of Rebus as he faces a locked room mystery in prison, sparking profound moral discussions. He reflects on his unconventional path to becoming a crime writer and the inspirations behind Rebus. The enduring legacy of Rebus is explored, with humorous insights into his evolving character amid societal changes. It's a fascinating peek into crime fiction and character development.
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Researching Rebus's Prison Setting
- Ian Rankin describes how he researched Edinburgh prison for Rebus's new setting.
- He arranged a tour with the prison governor who helped him portray prison life authentically despite fictional liberties.
Rebus Confronts Good, Evil, and Mystery
- Rankin saw Rebus's imprisonment as a new dramatic challenge and a way to explore good vs evil.
- The locked room murder mystery within prison was both novel and a puzzle to solve in his writing process.
Killer Identity Emerges Late
- Rankin admits he often doesn't know the killer's identity while drafting.
- In The Hanging Garden, the murderer was decided only after reading the first draft, showing storytelling evolves naturally.
