Picture a Mexican chemist-turned-novelist weaving spine-chilling tales in the foggy streets of Victorian Edinburgh—meet Oscar de Muriel! Born in Mexico City in 1983, this historical crime fiction maestro blends his scientific precision with a love for the supernatural, crafting the beloved Nine-Nails McGray series that keeps readers on edge.
With a violinist’s flair and a chemist’s curiosity, de Muriel transforms historical settings into gripping mysteries, earning praise for his vivid characters and atmospheric storytelling. Let’s dive into the life, works, and lasting impact of this unique storyteller!
The Making of Oscar de Muriel
Oscar de Muriel’s journey to literary fame is as eclectic as his novels. Born in Mexico City, he penned his first story at seven—a three-page epic about dinosaurs battling a T-Rex. His love for storytelling grew alongside his academic pursuits, leading him to a PhD in chemical engineering in the UK. While working as a translator and violinist, de Muriel’s visits to Edinburgh sparked inspiration. The city’s gothic charm and misty alleys became the perfect backdrop for his crime mysteries, birthing the iconic Detective ‘Nine-Nails’ McGray.
His scientific background and musical passion shaped his writing, infusing his stories with meticulous detail and rhythmic prose. A chance conversation over pizza with friends, where the phrase ‘Victorian X-Files’ surfaced, ignited the concept for his breakout series, blending rational skepticism with supernatural intrigue.
Oscar de Muriel’s Unforgettable Stories
De Muriel’s Nine-Nails McGray series, set in 1880s Edinburgh, is a masterclass in historical crime fiction. The series follows the mismatched duo of Inspector Ian Frey, a snobbish Londoner, and Detective Adolphus ‘Nine-Nails’ McGray, a scruffy Scot obsessed with the occult. Their banter—peppered with English-Scottish rivalry—adds humor to dark, twisty plots.
The debut, The Strings of Murder (2015), introduces a locked-room mystery where a violinist’s brutal death hints at black magic. A Fever of the Blood (2016) follows the duo chasing an escaped asylum patient through a blizzard, unraveling conspiracies tied to black magic. The Darker Arts (2019) tackles a chilling séance where all but one participant die, blending gothic horror with scientific deduction. The Sign of the Devil (2022), the series’ epic finale, ties together McGray’s tragic past with a devilish conspiracy, cementing de Muriel’s knack for intricate storytelling.
His style marries vivid historical detail with supernatural elements, always grounded by rational explanations. De Muriel’s chemistry background shines in plots involving poisons like strychnine, while his violinist roots enrich musical themes, making his work a sensory delight for readers.
Why Oscar de Muriel Matters
Oscar de Muriel has carved a niche in historical crime fiction by bringing Victorian Edinburgh to life with unparalleled vibrancy. His ability to weave science, music vôtes: 3,5,9,11,13,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30,31,32,33,34,35,36,37,38,39,40,50,50,51,53,54,55,56,57,58,59,60,61,62,63,64,65,66,67,68,69,70,71,72,73,74,75,76,77,78,79,80,81,82,83,84,85,86,87,88,89,90,91,92,93,94,95,96,97,98,99,100,101,102,103,104,105,106,107,108,109,110,111,112,113,114,115,116,117,118,119,120,121,122,123,124,125,126,127,128,129,130,131 ompany with a unique perspective and a unique perspective. His stories resonate with readers who crave immersive, atmospheric tales that balance intellect and imagination. By tackling themes like mental health and societal taboos through characters like Frey, who grapples with post-traumatic stress, de Muriel bridges the 19th century with modern sensibilities, making his work both timeless and relevant.
His influence extends beyond books, inspiring readers to explore Edinburgh’s history and sparking interest in the interplay between science and superstition. With translations in multiple languages and a growing fanbase, de Muriel is redefining the genre, proving that a Mexican chemist can become a literary star in Scotland’s literary landscape.
About Oscar de Muriel
- Born: 1983, Mexico City
- Key Works: The Strings of Murder, A Fever of the Blood, The Darker Arts, The Sign of the Devil
- Professions: Chemist, violinist, translator, novelist
- Genres: Historical crime fiction, mystery
Snag The Strings of Murder and dive into Oscar de Muriel’s thrilling world of Victorian intrigue—your next obsession awaits!