The Falls (Rankin novel)
| Company type | Novel |
|---|---|
| Industry | Publishing |
| Founded | 2001 |
| Founder | Ian Rankin |
| Products | Crime novel |
The Falls is a 2001 crime novel authored by Ian Rankin, marking the twelfth installment in the Inspector Rebus series.
Plot summary
The disappearance of a student in Edinburgh triggers intense pressure from her wealthy banking family on the Lothian and Borders Police to resolve the case. Newly promoted Chief Superintendent Gill Templer finds herself navigating conflicting demands from both her superiors and the CID team. At the same time, DC Siobhan Clarke must decide between accepting a prestigious position offered by Templer or continuing her investigative partnership with John Rebus.
The inquiry unfolds across two timelines: one involving nineteenth-century evidence connected to small wooden dolls placed in coffins discovered near the missing woman’s residence in East Lothian, and the other focusing on present-day clues. These miniature coffins link Rebus to artifacts housed at the National Museum of Scotland, originally unearthed on Arthur's Seat in 1836 following the notorious Burke and Hare murders. During his investigation, Rebus visits the Surgeons' Hall, where he consults forensic specialists and views exhibits related to Burke and Hare. A museum curator, Jean Burchill, proposes the possibility of a contemporary serial killer employing similar coffin symbolism.
While Rebus delves into historical documents and museum archives, Clarke pursues digital leads through computer and mobile phone data. Her research reveals the missing student’s involvement in an Internet role-playing game, leading her to confront a virtual Quizmaster and placing herself in potential danger.
TV adaptation
The Falls served as the opening episode of the second season of the Rebus television series featuring Ken Stott, broadcast in 2006. Ian Rankin made a brief appearance as "the anonymous bystander who rescues a woman from being mugged."
Reception
The novel achieved Number 1 bestseller status in the UK. The Guardian commended its vivid depiction of Edinburgh alongside Rankin’s richly developed character interactions. Kirkus Reviews emphasized the striking portrayal of Edinburgh’s environment and Rankin’s well-crafted ensemble. Publishers Weekly awarded a starred review, praising Rankin’s atmospheric representation of Edinburgh, multifaceted characters, and complex narrative that adds depth to the series.