What are Ian Rankin's best Rebus novels?

The order of Ian Rankin's Rebus novels can be a bit tricky to determine for someone new to the series. However, beginning with the earlier ones like 'Strip Jack' is a good start. It gives you an initial taste of Rebus's character, his flaws and his determination. As you progress through the series, you'll see how his character evolves over time, like in 'Fleshmarket Close' where he faces new challenges in his investigations.

Well, in Ian Rankin's Rebus novels, one characteristic is the intricate plotting. The stories keep you guessing until the end. Regarding the 'long shadows' part, it might imply that the past actions of characters, like Rebus's own past mistakes or the history of the city, constantly influence the current investigations. And the setting of Edinburgh is almost like another character, with its alleys and different social strata adding depth to the novels.

I'm not aware of any upcoming Ian Rankin Rebus novels at the moment. However, given the popularity of the series, it's quite possible that Rankin may write more in the future. But for now, fans can only wait and hope.

Ian Rankin's first Rebus novel is 'Knots and Crosses'.

Well, in a top - notch Rebus novel like 'A Question of Blood', the setting is key. Rankin's detailed portrayal of Edinburgh gives the story a unique atmosphere. The way the city's history, its architecture, and its social problems are intertwined with the mystery makes it special. Also, Rebus' interactions with other characters, whether it's his superiors or the suspects, are full of tension and nuance.

The most recent Ian Rankin Rebus novel that I know of is 'A Heart Full of Headstones'. It continues the story of Rebus, with his complex character and the gritty Edinburgh setting that Rankin is so good at portraying. There are all the elements fans love - the mystery, the moral dilemmas, and Rebus's unique take on the cases he's involved in.

For a beginner, 'Knots and Crosses' is a great start. It's the first in the series and gives a good introduction to the character of Rebus and the kind of world he operates in.

In Ian Rankin's Rebus novels, 'death is not the end' could imply that the consequences of death continue to reverberate throughout the story. Deaths often lead to investigations, which in turn unearth secrets, lies, and more complex relationships. Rebus has to deal with the aftermath of deaths, and they are not simply the end of a life but the start of a complex web of events that need to be untangled.

A good way to approach the Rebus novels in order is to first read 'Hide and Seek' after 'Knots and Crosses'. 'Hide and Seek' delves deeper into the relationships Rebus has, both personal and professional. It also starts to expand on the mystery and crime elements that are characteristic of the series.

One of the highly regarded ones is 'Knots and Crosses'. It's where we are first introduced to Rebus and his world. Another good one is 'Black and Blue' which has a really engaging mystery plot.