Sir Ian Rankin has announced that his beloved detective character, John Rebus, will be taking a hiatus as he shifts his focus to new writing projects.

The last installment in the Rebus series, titled Midnight and Blue, was published in 2024, and there are currently no plans for a new Rebus book this year.

Rankin expressed uncertainty about Rebus's future, stating, "We left him in prison in the last book. So what happens after that? I have no idea."

At 65 years old, Rankin revealed that his next book will delve into London's crime scene, marking a significant departure from the Rebus series.

In an exciting development, Rankin will serve as the first-ever guest programmer at the Bloody Scotland International Crime Writing Festival, scheduled for September 12-14, 2025, in Stirling.

The festival will showcase notable crime writers such as Kate Atkinson, Kathy Reichs, and Jo Nesbo, aiming to create an inclusive gathering for crime fiction enthusiasts.

Festival director Bob McDevitt praised Rankin's contributions, highlighting his significant influence in the crime writing community and his role in curating a strong lineup for the event.

The festival will also feature appearances by author Terry Deary and comedians Jeremy Vine and Steph McGovern, alongside celebrations of Rebus's cultural impact.

John Rebus was first introduced to readers in 1987's Knots and Crosses and has since appeared in 25 novels, along with various adaptations for TV and radio.