Quintin Jardine

Author:
Quintin Jardine

Date of birth: 29-Jun-1945
Place of birth: Motherwell, Lanarkshire, Scotland

About the author:
Quintin Jardine is a prolific Scottish author best known for his popular crime fiction series featuring detective Bob Skinner, among other recurring characters. With a career spanning over three decades and dozens of novels published, Jardine has become a prominent name in the world of British crime and mystery writing.

Born in Motherwell, Lanarkshire, Scotland, in 1945, Jardine studied law at the University of Glasgow and went on to work in various professions, including as a journalist, political spin doctor, and media relations consultant. His diverse professional background helped inform the authentic political and procedural aspects of his fiction.

Jardine published his debut novel, Skinner’s Rules, in 1993, introducing Chief Constable Bob Skinner, a tough and charismatic Edinburgh cop. The series, now numbering over 30 books, combines gritty crime-solving with deep character development and often explores the political and social tensions of modern Scotland. The Skinner novels are known for their intricate plotting, fast pace, and evolving cast of characters.

In addition to the Skinner series, Jardine has written the Oz Blackstone series, following an actor turned private investigator, and the Primavera Blackstone series, featuring Oz’s widow. These books allow Jardine to experiment with different tones—from dark and brooding to light and witty—while still delivering suspenseful narratives.

Jardine's writing is deeply rooted in Scottish settings, often featuring detailed depictions of Edinburgh and other cities, giving readers a vivid sense of place. His works have earned a loyal readership both in the UK and internationally.

Quintin Jardine continues to write full-time and resides in Scotland and Spain. He remains a major figure in Scottish crime fiction, admired for his storytelling skill, memorable characters, and prolific output.