Hostage to Murder

Val McDermid is a Scottish crime writer known for her gritty and suspenseful novels. She has written several popular series, including the Tony Hill and Carol Jordan series and the Lindsay Gordon series. McDermid's literary style is characterized by complex characters, intricate plots, and a keen eye for detail.

One of McDermid's most notable works is "The Mermaids Singing," which won the Crime Writers' Association Gold Dagger award for best crime novel of the year. McDermid's impact on the crime fiction genre is significant, as she has been credited with helping to popularize the genre of Tartan Noir, a subset of crime fiction set in Scotland.

Overall, Val McDermid is a prolific and influential writer who has made a lasting contribution to the world of crime fiction. Her work continues to captivate readers around the world with its compelling storytelling and engaging characters.