Scotland’s international crime writing festival, Bloody Scotland, returns to Stirling this September, and it’s an unmissable opportunity for anyone who loves books, stories, or just a good mystery.
The festival brings together some of the biggest names in crime fiction – from household favourites to emerging voices – for a weekend packed with author talks, debates, workshops, and unforgettable events across the city. Whether you’re a lifelong crime fiction fan or just curious to see what all the buzz is about, there’s something for everyone.
We have staff in the line-up
We’re especially excited that Colin Sinclair, from the University of Stirling library, is part of this year’s programme. Colin will be leading a Bloody Scotland walking tour, guiding audiences through Stirling’s historic streets while uncovering the city’s darker tales. It’s a fantastic way to experience both Stirling and the festival – and a great chance to support one of our own colleagues on such a prestigious stage.
Explore crime fiction in the library
To celebrate the festival, the library has put together a special Bloody Scotland book display featuring titles by some of this year’s authors, along with classics of the genre. It’s the perfect place to discover your next page-turner, whether you want to dive into chilling thrillers, atmospheric mysteries, or sharp detective stories.
Plan your Bloody Scotland experience
You can also pick up a copy of the official Bloody Scotland programme at the library – so grab one when you’re in and plan out the events you don’t want to miss. If you spot something you’d love to attend, you can book directly through the Bloody Scotland website. Check out the programme or pick up a copy from our book display in the library.
Free access for staff and students – don’t miss these killer events!
Staff and students are invited to attend select events at Bloody Scotland for free, offering a brilliant opportunity to experience the festival’s vibrant crime writing scene.
Friday 12th September
- 12.30pm – Golden Lion – Remote & Risky – C.B. Everett, Eliza Reid & Mark Edwards
- 2pm – Albert Halls – Original Sins – Ruth Ware, Abigail Dean & Erin Kelly
- 3.30pm – Golden Lion – History and Her Story – Laura Shepherd-Robinson, Beth Lewis & Shylashri Shankar
- 3.30pm – Holy Trinity Church – Harsh Environments – Harry Whitehead, Michael Cordy & Eve Smith
- 8.30pm – Holy Trinity Church – Life and Death on the Edge – William Shaw, Chris Chibnall & GD Wright
Saturday 13th September
- 5.30pm – Holy Trinity Church – Sins of the Past – Rob Parker & Pat Black
- 5.30pm – Holy Trinity Church – Stars and Stripes and Smalltown Slayings – Rod Reynolds, Vaseem Khan & Anna Bailey
If you’d like to attend one or more of the events, please complete our short form. Once registered, Bloody Scotland will send you a digital ticket for your chosen event(s) before the festival.