This episode is part of a five-episode series where Susie chats to the authors shortlisted for the 2025 Bloody Scotland Debut prize.

Claire Wilson discusses her debut novel 'Five by Five', which explores the moral dilemmas faced by an intelligence analyst in a Scottish prison. She shares her long journey to publication, the challenges of writing, and the significance of the Bloody Scotland festival for crime writers. Claire also delves into the complexities of her characters, the impact of personal experiences on her writing, and her aspirations for future projects, including a focus on female offenders. The discussion highlights the importance of community and support among writers, as well as the power of books to foster empathy and understanding

Book recommended in this episode:

A Death in Glasgow by Eva MacRae