Bloody Scotland Stirling, 12-14 September

Fancy heading to one of the prettiest parts of the UK this autumn? Join hundreds of crime writers new and established at the leading Scottish crime writing festival, which is renowned for its intimate setting and enthusiastic sessions. Tickets are available from bloodyscotland.com now, including sessions that will be beaned online, and here are just a few of the highlights this year.

Ruth Ware © Gemma Day

Original Sins: Ruth Ware, Abigail Dean, Erin Kelly

Join three of today’s most talented and original writers as they discuss their latest work. The Woman In Suite 11 is the stunning follow-up to Ruth Ware’s global smash, The Woman In Cabin 10, soon to be a Netflix drama starring Keira Knightley. Abigail Dean’s exceptional novel The Death of Us is a story of murder, survival and love, and the night two lives were torn apart. Erin Kelly’s The House of Mirrors is a breathless tale of secrets and lies, beautifully told, and guaranteed to keep you guessing until the final page.

Sir Ian Rankin © Hamish + Brown

A Puzzle of Rebuses: Sir Ian Rankin, James McPherson & Gray O'Brien

Much-loved and much-copied, Rebus sets the standard for fictional detectives everywhere. And this unique event features three people who know Rebus better than most. Sir Ian Rankin will discuss his latest novel Midnight and Blue alongside two TV favourites. James MacPherson made his name in Taggart and is the narrator of the Rebus audiobooks. Former Coronation Street star Gray O’Brien recently played the DI on stage in the hit play Rebus: A Game Called Malice.

Jo Nesbo © Jarli & Jordan

Lone Wolf: Jo Nesbo

A former professional footballer, rock star and stockbroker (yes, really), Jo Nesbo is now one of the world’s biggest crime writers. His books have sold over 60 million copies worldwide and been translated into over 50 languages as he led the Nordic Noir takeover with novels such as The Bat, The Snowman, and The Leopard. His latest book, Wolf Hour, tells of a serial killer desperate to be caught and for his story to be told

Steph McGovern © Carolyn Mendelsohn

Murderous Media: Steph McGovern & Jeremy Vine

Two TV favourites have turned to crime with hugely enjoyable debut novels set in the tension-filled world of broadcast media. Entertainment and drama are guaranteed as we go live with two of the UK’s most popular presenters. Steph McGovern brings insight and authenticity to irresistible thriller Deadline, while Murder on Line One is an intriguing whodunnit from radio and television star Jeremy Vine.

Mick Herron © Mikael Buck

Mick Herron: In Conversation

Spymaster Mick Herron marks the release of Clown Town, the ninth book in his phenomenal series featuring the slow horses of Slough House. It’s a long-awaited return not just for Mick but for his motley collection of spies including River Cartwright, Catherine Standish and Roddy Ho, all under the bleary eye of Jackson Lamb.