Val McDermid

Val McDermid, a Scottish crime writer, is best known for her Wire in the Blood series, which features the characters Dr. Tony Hill and DCI Carol Jordan. Her works have been translated into over thirty languages and have sold over eleven million copies.

Val McDermid was born in Kirkcaldy, Scotland. McDermid was the first person from a Scottish state school to attend St Hilda’s College, Oxford, where she studied English.

After university, McDermid pursued a career in journalism, working for national newspapers in Glasgow and Manchester for over a decade. This experience provided a foundation for her crime writing.

In 1987, she published her first novel, Report for Murder, which introduced journalist Lindsay Gordon as its protagonist. It marks the beginning of a prolific writing career with several series centered on private detective Kate Brannigan and cold-case detective Karen Pirie.

McDermid’s work is noted for its detailed plotting, psychological depth, and insightful commentary on social issues. Her most recent publication, Past Lying (2023), is the next part of the Karen Pirie series. In addition to her novels, McDermid has written radio plays, non-fiction, and a children’s book.

She has received numerous awards throughout her career, such as the CWA Gold Dagger and the Cartier Diamond Dagger. McDermid is also an active broadcaster and contributor to BBC Radio 4 and BBC Radio Scotland and maintains a presence in the literary and broadcasting communities as a speaker and commentator.

Beyond her professional life, McDermid supports Raith Rovers Football Club and is actively involved with the Scottish Book Trust and the Homeless World Cup Foundation. She is also a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.

Val McDermid resides in Edinburgh with her partner.

Photo credit: www.valmcdermid.com