Still time to book a place at novel Angus crime writing festival

An inaugural Crime Writers’ Festival at Glamis Castle looks set for success with keen interest in the event and steady ticket sales.

The new Crime at the Castle venture will allow those with an interest in crime fiction, as well as aspiring novelists, to meet the leading Scottish authors of the genre.

Top names including Val Mcdermid, Michael J Malone,and Craig Robertson are involved, with talks, book-signings and workshops lined up.

Glamis Castle event co-ordinator Pauline Cawdery said: “I was discussing writing and crime with writer Wendy H Jones, and out of that encounter came Crime at the Castle, the first crime writers’ festival in Angus.

“All the writers agree that there couldn’t be a more inspirational venue than this, and we are very much looking forward to welcoming these top flight authors to the castle.

“Talks by the authors include The Queen of Crime by Val Mcdermid, The Long Drop by Denise Mina, and Profile of a Murderer by Caroline Dunford, so there really is something for everyone,” added Pauline.

Val Mcdermid, who has published 27 novels, and whose many awards include the Portico Prize for Fiction, the LA Times Book Prize and the Cartier Diamond Dagger, said: “Crime writers are always investigating possible venues for murder, and I’m sure Scotland’s most haunted castle will inspire all sorts of idea for writers and readers alike.

“I’m looking forward to a thrilling time”

The event takes place on Saturday and tickets, priced £55, are still available from the castle website.