Scottish crime writer Peter May, author of 'The Blackhouse', dies aged 74 in south of France

From the Newshound archive · first published 28 September 2026 · last updated 29 September 2026.

Peter May, whose Lewis Trilogy brought him international fame and 15 million book sales worldwide, died on Friday at his home in the south of France. His wife, fellow author Janice Hally, announced the news on social media, saying she had "no words to express the loss." His final novel, 'Island of the Dead', is still to be published posthumously in January 2027.

Publisher Jon Riley called May "irreplaceable", praising his "kindness, generosity and largeness of spirit."

May had planned a farewell tour of Scotland and Lewis to coincide with 'Island of the Dead's' January release.

First Minister John Swinney said May's descriptions of Scottish landscapes were "stunning" and extended sympathy to his family.