LOCATIONS

My latest novel is set around the Water of Leith, the river that runs through Edinburgh. In the past, the river was an important part of the city's economy, powering a large number of mills. Now, much of the river is used for recreation. There is a fine walkway running most of its length. I was brought up by the Water of Leith and the action in THE DEAD POOL is set within a stone's throw of where I used to play as a child.

(Picture 9)
This is an old railway viaduct and just under the bridge there is a river crossing point that I used to use in the summer (when the water is usually low). However, in THE DEAD POOL, one of my characters has to cross this in flash flood conditions!

(Picture 10)
This is a wooden bridge that crosses the river at a pool known as 'the Cauldron'. It looks deceptively calm in this photograph. But it's not always that way, especially following a long rainy spell. From the Cauldron, the river then runs down into a large weir. The bridge leads to a wooded area and towards steps leading up to the Scottish Gallery of Modern Art, high above.

(Picture 11)
The second photograph is looking from the bridge towards the Cauldron. Again, looking deceptively tranquil.