A former daily reporter who drew on his then-employer’s archives to inspire his debut novel has finally seen his vision realised.

Peter Ranscombe, who previously worked as business correspondent The Scotsman, will see his book Hare launched on Wednesday evening in Edinburgh.

He took the story of Burke and Hare, Scotland’s most notorious 19th century murderers, and asked what happened to Hare after Burke was hanged for their crimes.

As part of the research for his novel, Peter, 32, delved into The Scotsman’s archive, which stretches back to 1817, to read reports of Burke’s hanging in Edinburgh in 1829.

The novel, front cover pictured above, is set in Boston during the early years of the American Civil War, when Hare falls under suspicion once more.

As reported on HoldtheFrontPage last June, the 32-year-old struck a deal with Knox Robinson Publishing, who bought the rights to the hardback, paperback and e-book editions of the book.

He had spent nine years at the Edinburgh-based title, where he used its archives library to research the crimes, and later joined Scottish Field magazine before embarking on his literary career.

Said Peter: “Everyone at The Scotsman newspaper was very supportive when I signed my book deal last year and it’s so exciting to see Hare in print now.

“My former colleagues at Scottish Field magazine have been a big help and support too over the past few months as the publication date has drawn closer.”

For more information about the novel click here.