The Impossible Dead by Ian Rankin (Paperback)

The Impossible Dead introduces Inspector Malcolm Fox of the Lothian and Borders Police. When Detective Sergeant Paul Carter is investigated for conduct, Fox is sent to reassure his colleagues. But as he digs in, things get personal: Carter’s uncle, Alan, holds secrets dating back to a suspicious 1985 death of a prominent Edinburgh lawyer, Francis Vernal.

Alan Carter’s investigation into his nephew’s case unearths more than routine corruption. He reveals connections to dark political movements and possibly a forgotten conspiracy. Fox realises the case offers no easy answers: every clue about Vernal and Carter’s past twists into a more dangerous puzzle. As Fox pulls on threads, he risks drawing the attention of powerful figures who will stop at nothing to bury the truth.

Meanwhile, Fox must balance his investigation with his fragile family life. His estranged father and sister weigh heavily on his decisions. As the stakes rise, Fox questions loyalty, justice—and whether exposing the past is worth the price.

This novel blends ethical policing with political intrigue, delivering a tense, thoughtful crime thriller. The Impossible Dead is a deeply layered story with secrets, betrayals and moral ambiguity, all under the shadow of a long-buried scandal.