Doug Johnstone - 20 Books in 20 Years

Doug Johnstone - 20 Books in 20 Years

From Scots Whay Hae! by Alistair Braidwood

March 31, 2026 · 1h 25m

About this episode

Alistair Braidwood interviews Doug Johnstone about his 20-year career as a published author and his upcoming works.

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali caught up with returning guest (one of our first, no less) writer Doug Johnstone to look back over 20 years as a published author in the run up to his 20th novel coming out in August of this year, as well as the new versions of his first two novels, all three to be published with Orenda Books. They went through the novels to date in order, from 2006's Tombstoning to The Transcendent Tide. During the conversation, Doug talks about getting published initially, the unexpected order of his early publications, finding his rhythm as a writer, writing from experience, learning to edit his own work, the importance of place, portraying alternative Edinburghs, moving between subject matter (and later genre), changing publishers and finding a home with Orenda, stand alone novels versus writing a series, and so much more. The two also talk character, plot, pacing, and personal favourites, before Doug gives a glimpse into what comes next. One of Scots Whay Hae!'s favourite authors, what this episode proves is that Doug Johnstone is among the most interesting, thrilling, yet always thought-provoking, writers at work today. Looking back over this…

People in this episode

Host: Alistair Braidwood

Guest: Doug Johnstone

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Orenda Books

Books & works: Tombstoning, The Transcendent Tide

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