Iain Maloney Knihy

167 men died on the Piper Alpha oil platform in 1988. In The Shadow of Piper Alpha is the first novel to explore the devastating aftermath of the disaster.Marcus is on Piper Alpha that night. His daughter, Carrie, waits at the hospital as helicopters start bringing in survivors, never knowing if her father will be on the next one. Marcus survives, but his post-traumatic stress disorder develops into often violent alcoholism. As the story moves between Marcus and Carrie, between the past and present, their trauma grows and deepens, driving them ever further apart. After decades living abroad, Carrie, now a respected volcanologist, returns to the University of Aberdeen to deliver a controversial academic paper with Marcus in attendance. Will a reconciliation be possible, or has too much time passed?

Set in a rural village, this romantic historical thriller unfolds as dark accusations of witchcraft tear the community apart. The narrative weaves tension and intrigue, exploring themes of fear, betrayal, and the impact of societal paranoia. As relationships are tested and secrets emerge, the characters navigate a perilous landscape where love and danger intertwine, leading to unexpected revelations and a gripping conclusion.

In 2016 Scottish writer Iain Maloney and his Japanese wife Minori moved to a village in rural Japan. This is the story of his attempt to fit in, be accepted and fulfil his duties as a member of the community, despite being the only foreigner in the village. Even after more than a decade living in Japan and learning the language, life in the countryside was a culture shock. Due to increasing numbers of young people moving to the cities in search of work, there are fewer rural residents under the retirement age - and they have two things in abundance: time and curiosity. Iain's attempts at amateur farming, basic gardening and DIY are conducted under the watchful eye of his neighbours and wife. But curtain twitching is the least of his problems. The threat of potential missile strikes and earthquakes is nothing compared to the venomous snakes, terrifying centipedes and bees the size of small birds that stalk Iain's garden. Told with self-deprecating humour, this memoir gives a fascinating insight into a side of Japan rarely seen and affirms the positive benefits of immigration for the individual and the community. It's not always easy being the only gaijin in the village.

Exploring the profound connection between nature and health, this poetry collection features two cycles inspired by climbing poets. The first cycle delves into the Japanese Alps as the narrator confronts an unnamed illness. The second cycle employs the rock cycle's processes to grapple with mortality. Rich in imagery and references, the poems navigate a landscape of rising and falling thoughts, mirroring the paths of mountains while striving for clarity and understanding above the treetops.