Over the years, some amazing novels have been set in Edinburgh – from golden oldies like The Heart of Midlothian to modern classics such as Trainspotting.
Truth is, our list could have included a lot more than the 19 novels we’ve opted for – but we’re sure you’ll agree there’s some great stuff to get your teeth into here.
Our list features newer releases, classics and everything in between. The books are assembled in no particular order.
Have a scroll through our picture gallery to see which booked we opted for – and please let us know your own favourites in the comments section before you go.
1. 19 brilliant novels set in Edinburgh
Browse our photo gallery to see 19 brilliant novels set in Edinburgh. Photo: Pixabay Photo: Pixabay
2. Fleshmarket Close by Ian Rankin
No list of Edinburgh-set novels would be complete without one of the city’s most famous fictional inhabitants DI Rebus. In the Marchmont resident’s fifteenth outing, an illegal immigrant is found murdered in an Edinburgh scheme. Facing unwanted retirement, Rebus must visit an asylum seekers’ detention centre and deal with Scotland’s capital’s criminal underworld while, maybe, falling in love. Photo: Third Party
3. 44 Scotland Street by Alexander McCall Smith
Learn about tenement life in Edinburgh’s famous New Town in this vivid exploration of the residents of 44 Scotland Street and their neighbours. Gently satirical and partially influenced by Armistead Maupin’s Tales of the City, the novel was first published episodically in The Scotsman but now acts as the gateway to a 15-book series. Photo: Third Party
4. Weak Teeth by Lynsey May
With a bitter breakup, an uninspiring career and a bout of toothache, Ellis is having a bit of a crisis. As she returns to her childhood home, we see Ellis juggle personal struggles amid tangled family dynamics in this all-too-relatable debut novel. It’s a heart-warming and tender story that unpacks the impossible instability of love, loss, and everything in between. Photo: Third Party