Ian Rankin is one of the literary stars of Scotland, and someone with a passion for the Far North who has set some of his novels in the Highlands. The action in his latest novel, A Song for the Dark Times, takes place between Edinburgh and the north coast.

Ian joins us to talk about the novel and what themes setting the story in the north allows him to explore which he couldn’t get at if the story took place in Edinburgh alone. He also talks about his personal connection to the Highlands.

Pete and Matt, meanwhile, discuss their shared interest in - and ignorance of - crime writing and the distinctive Scottish voice in the genre.

This podcast is part one of our conversation with Ian Rankin. Next week, we focus more on Ian’s passion for the Highlands … and where to stop for a comfort break on the A9.