Val McDermid

Author:
Val McDermid

Date of birth: 04-Jun-1955
Place of birth: Kirkcaldy, Scotland

About the author:
Val McDermid (b. June 4, 1955) is a renowned Scottish crime writer, celebrated for her gripping thrillers and complex, memorable characters. Born in Kirkcaldy, Fife, McDermid attended St Hilda’s College, Oxford, where she studied English, becoming one of the first students from a Scottish state school to gain admission.

After a successful career as a journalist, McDermid turned to writing fiction, publishing her first novel, Report for Murder, in 1987. She is best known for her series featuring psychologist Dr. Tony Hill and Detective Carol Jordan, which inspired the popular TV series Wire in the Blood. Her other notable series include the Lindsay Gordon and Karen Pirie novels, each exploring intricate mysteries with richly drawn characters and settings.

McDermid’s works, translated into over 40 languages, have earned numerous accolades, including the Cartier Diamond Dagger for lifetime achievement. She is also known for her activism and outspoken advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, often exploring these themes in her writing.

Living in Scotland, McDermid continues to captivate readers worldwide with her masterful storytelling and keen insight into human psychology.