The Book of Skulls

A historical tale of gender-bending, hidden identity, obsession and gruesome murder, set in Edinburgh's Old Town.

1875. Liz Moliette; a poor orphan of unknown heritage, and Amulya Patel; from a wealthy Indian family, are the only female students at the Edinburgh Medical School, where a hostile attitude towards women is driven by Professor Atticus. However Liz and Amulya have allies in fellow student Campbell Preeble, The Reekie reporter Hector Findlay and the charming Dr Paul Love.

In dire need of funds, Liz becomes assistant to gruff lecturer and police surgeon Dr Florian Blyth. When a series of grisly murders take place the doctor and Liz help Inspector Macleod in his investigation, which leads to the Edinburgh Asylum, the Burry Man festival and the quack science of phrenology

The search for the killer comes dangerously close to Liz as she uncovers her own family secrets.

Universal link

"This will gratify fans of historic police procedurals with a queer bent." Publishers Weekly

"An intriguing gateway to a new mystery series we give The Book of Skulls a 666/666." Hothouse Horror

Reviews from the Blog Tour 27th,28th,29th May: Ontheboookshelf and Undiscovered Scotland.

The Book of Skulls video

Paintings from The Book of Skulls

These paintings were part of my Medical Inspirations exhibition at Edinburgh University in 2019; a celebration of 150th anniversary of the Edinburgh Seven. The Book of Skulls exhibition was at Monboddo, Hilton Doubletree,Bread St, Edinburgh until end of Sept 2022.

The Book of Skulls exhibition is currently on at The Home of Irresistible Art,Wee Hub,Living Memory Association,Ocean Terminal,Ocean Drive,Edinburgh EHG6 6JJ.Open 11am to 4 pm daily, until April 2023