Every work of fiction depends on facts. Somewhere in the creative process, parts of real people and events inevitably intermingle with imaginary ones. Sometimes the distinctions are obvious. At others, even the person doing the creating isn’t sure where the fine line separating the two has been drawn.
Lawless journeys at times between fact and fiction and a few of the characters actually exist. Some are half true and others, thankfully, are completely make-believe. In every case, the dialogue is pure fiction.
The book was inspired by certain actual events encountered during research for a previous book, The Law Killers, and experiences soon after its publication. In that sense, it is a fictional sequel.
It could never have been written without the help, advice and encouragement of a number of people and I am deeply indebted to them. My particular thanks go to:
Ex-Detective Chief Superintendent Tom Ross and Dr Doug Pearston of the Scottish Police DNA database; the governor and staff of HM Prison Perth, especially Steve Kinmond; Petra McMillan, Paul Gunnion and Gordon Dow, all of whom helped one way or another to put this book on the shelf.
The fine staff at Black & White Publishing always deserve more praise than they receive, so, hopefully, this makes amends – my particular thanks go to the magnificent Patricia Marshall. On this occasion Alison and Campbell have to be singled out for a unique combined contribution to the main character, as well as for their guidance.
Above all, my gratitude goes to my wife Christine for her helpful suggestions, editing skills and understanding. None of the following would have been possible without her.