The novel, which features an unlikely crime-fighting partnership between two middle-aged women – and has been heralded as Scotland’s answer to Happy Valley – joins books on the longlist by authors such as Ian Rankin, Val McDermid, Chris Brookmyre and Denise Mina.

 

Claire said: “Willie McIlvanney was a literary giant and the most unassuming of men. To be mentioned in the same sentence is an honour. For my writing to be judged worthy of inclusion in this list is beyond thrilling!”

 

Publisher Sara Hunt said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Claire – to be fighting it out with the big guns of Scottish crime fiction with her debut novel!

 

“Cross Purpose is a bit of a break from the norm in crime fiction, in that it features an older female duo with a real, warm relationship, who fight for what’s right. Claire represents a new voice for older women in crime fiction and we’re very proud of her book and pleased as punch that she’s being recognised in this way.”

 

The winner of the McIlvanney Prize will be announced at the opening reception of this year’s Bloody Scotland International Crime Writing Festival, which takes place in Stirling in September. The award recognises excellence in Scottish crime writing and includes a prize of £1,000 and nationwide promotion in Waterstones.