Crime writer Ian Rankin has shown his support for an initiative to give people a taste of different genres of writing through a series of literary lunches.

Rankin and fellow crime writers Lin Anderson and Lesley Kelly will take part in the first Literary Lunch at The Royal Scots Club in Edinburgh in March.

The authors will give a short reading followed by a question and answer session with journalist Jackie McGlone, who will be chairing the event.

Rankin, creator of the Rebus series of detective novels, said: “It will be great to establish a new series of literary lunches in Edinburgh.

“Food, wine and books – what could be better?”

Lin Anderson is best known for her bestselling series featuring forensic scientist Dr Rhona MacLeod, while Lesley Kelly has spent the past few years writing the Health of Strangers series, set in an Edinburgh beset by a killer virus.

Tickets can be reserved on a first come, first served basis by emailing events@royalscotsclub.com .

Payment will only be requested closer to the event, with tickets priced at £60 per person.

The first Literary Lunch will take place on Thursday March 18 and guests will receive a three-course lunch with champagne on arrival and refreshments.