Doug Johnstone - Crime Writing Masterclass

We're always excited to partner with fantastic authors, but it is an added bonus when the author is local to the bookshop. We're thrilled to host an introductory crime writing masterclass with Doug Johnstone!

This workshop will take writers through the world of crime fiction, starting with sources of story inspiration, looking at playing with the tropes and expectations of the genre, and examining how to edit and shape your narrative into a sharp and page-turning story. 

As always, we will have complimentary tea & coffee on hand, as well as a bespoke notebook so you can participate in writing activities and take notes during the workshop.

Doug Johnstone is the author of 16 previous novels, most recently The Opposite of Lonely (2023) and The Space Between Us (2023). The Big Chill (2020) was longlisted for Theakston Crime Novel of the Year, and Black Hearts was shortlisted for the same award. Three of his books, A Dark Matter (2020), Breakers (2019) and The Jump (2015), have been shortlisted for the McIlvanney Prize for Scottish Crime Novel of the Year. He’s taught creative writing and been writer in residence at various institutions over the last decade, and has been an arts journalist for over twenty years. Doug is a songwriter and musician with six albums and three EPs released, and he plays drums for the Fun Lovin’ Crime Writers. He’s also co-founder of the Scotland Writers Football Club, and has a PhD in nuclear physics.