Picture a Scottish storyteller who trades newsroom deadlines for dark, twisty thrillers—meet Neil Broadfoot! This former journalist turned crime fiction maestro burst onto the scene with his gripping debut, Falling Fast, in 2014, earning praise from none other than Ian Rankin, who dubbed him a 'true rising star of crime fiction.' With a knack for weaving pulse-pounding plots against the gritty backdrop of Scotland’s cities, Broadfoot’s novels capture the heart of Tartan Noir, blending suspense with authentic local flavor.
From his early days chasing headlines to crafting chilling mysteries, Broadfoot’s journey is as compelling as his stories. Whether you’re a fan of crime fiction or just love a good yarn, his work promises to keep you up past bedtime, turning pages under the covers.
The Making of Neil Broadfoot
Born and raised in Scotland, Neil Broadfoot spent 15 years as a journalist, covering major stories for national and local papers like The Scotsman and Scotland on Sunday. His time in the newsroom, chasing scoops and uncovering truths, honed his eye for detail and knack for storytelling. After stints in media relations for organizations like Strathclyde Fire & Rescue Service, he now works as a communications officer for the Scottish Government. Living in Dunfermline with his wife, Fiona, and their two daughters, Broadfoot balances family life with his passion for writing, often burning the midnight oil to craft his novels.
A lifelong fan of crime fiction, inspired by giants like William McIlvanney and Iain Banks, Broadfoot turned his love for the genre into a career. His big break came when Falling Fast was shortlisted for the Dundee International Book Prize, landing him a deal with Saraband’s Contraband imprint. From there, his star only rose.
Neil Broadfoot’s Unforgettable Stories
Broadfoot’s novels are a masterclass in tension, blending gritty realism with breakneck pacing. His first series, featuring investigative journalist Doug McGregor, kicks off with Falling Fast (2014), where a woman’s fatal plunge from Edinburgh’s Scott Monument pulls McGregor into a web of secrets, drugs, and murder. The series continues with The Storm (2015), where McGregor grapples with a sniper’s killing, and All the Devils (2016), diving deeper into Edinburgh’s dark underbelly.
Switching gears, Broadfoot introduced close protection expert Connor Fraser in his Stirling-set series, starting with No Man’s Land (2018). A mutilated body at Cowane’s Hospital sets the stage for a thriller laced with Brexit and independence debates, earning a McIlvanney Award longlist spot. Follow-ups like No Place to Die (2019) and The Point of No Return (2020) cement Fraser as a compelling hero, with Broadfoot’s Stirling backdrop—born from a serendipitous visit to a Bloody Scotland festival football match—adding rich atmosphere. His latest, Exit Wounds, is slated for release in May 2025.
Known for his 'catch-your-breath' style, Broadfoot’s writing is lean and explosive, with complex characters and plots that don’t let go. He doesn’t plan his stories, letting his characters guide the way, which gives his books an organic, unpredictable edge that fans adore.
Why Neil Broadfoot Matters
Neil Broadfoot is more than just a crime writer—he’s a torchbearer for Scottish fiction, carrying the Tartan Noir legacy forward with fresh energy. Praised by peers like James Oswald and Mason Cross, his work resonates with readers for its authenticity and emotional depth. By setting his Connor Fraser series in Stirling, a city rarely explored in crime fiction, he’s carved out a unique niche, proving that Scotland’s smaller locales can be just as thrilling as Edinburgh or Glasgow.
Broadfoot’s impact extends beyond books. As a panelist, event chair, and member of the live writing event Four Blokes in Search of a Plot, he’s a vibrant part of Scotland’s crime writing community, inspiring new voices and engaging fans. His ability to juggle a demanding day job, family, and prolific writing makes him a relatable figure for aspiring authors.
- Born: Scotland, circa 1976 (age ~49)
- Key Works: Falling Fast, No Man’s Land, The Point of No Return, Exit Wounds (2025)
- Awards: Shortlisted for Dundee International Book Prize, Deanston Scottish Crime Book of the Year; longlisted for McIlvanney Award
- Fun Fact: His Stirling series was sparked by a football match at Bloody Scotland!
Ready for a thrilling ride? Snag No Man’s Land and dive into Neil Broadfoot’s heart-pounding world of Scottish crime!