Best of Best Review is proud to announce Ian Colquhoun as the recipient of the Best Scottish Independent Author of 2025 award. This esteemed recognition highlights Colquhoun’s outstanding contributions to Scottish literature, marking him as a distinguished voice in the literary world. Through his powerful storytelling and unflinching exploration of Scotland’s working-class struggles, Colquhoun has set himself apart as an author who doesn't shy away from difficult subjects but instead uses them to create works that are both compelling and relatable.

A New Voice in Scottish Literature

As an independent author, Ian Colquhoun has made a significant impact with his raw, authentic writing style. His works, especially The Blantyre Girl, bring to light the harsh realities of life in modern Scotland, focusing on themes such as addiction, organized crime, and the resilience of working-class families. With his unique blend of Scottish vernacular and crafted English, Colquhoun’s books create a vivid, immersive experience for readers, showcasing the often-overlooked lives of people from Scotland's smaller towns and communities.

Through The Blantyre Girl, Colquhoun introduces Georgia, a strong female protagonist fighting to keep her family together amidst the devastating effects of Scotland’s drug epidemic. The novel strikes a powerful balance between heartbreaking realism and moments of humor, making it a memorable read for anyone familiar with the challenges of working-class life.

The Journey of an Independent Author

Ian Colquhoun’s path to becoming one of Scotland's most celebrated independent authors is a testament to his resilience and creativity. As a double leg amputee, Colquhoun has faced personal challenges that have shaped both his perspective and his writing. His work is deeply personal, informed by his own experiences growing up in a working-class community and his reflections on the social issues facing Scotland today.

Colquhoun’s books are not just works of fiction, they are a reflection of the real struggles many people face. His writing is informed by his own experiences with addiction and poverty, offering a gritty, no-nonsense view of life in Scotland’s underrepresented communities. As he puts it, “Anyone who grew up in a scheme in Scotland or on any housing estate in Britain will be able to relate to the Blantyre girl and to the Broken Biscuits series.”

Why Ian Colquhoun Deserves the Award

Ian Colquhoun’s dedication to storytelling is evident in every page he writes. His ability to weave together complex social issues with deeply human narratives is what makes his work stand out. As an independent author, Colquhoun’s decision to tackle dark and controversial topics, like the devastating impact of the drug epidemic, has given him a platform to speak truth to power. His stories resonate with readers who find themselves in similar situations, yet they also provide a broader understanding of the societal challenges faced by marginalized groups.

His distinctive narrative style and unflinching honesty make him a standout in the world of independent literature. With works like The Blantyre Girl, Colquhoun continues to shine a light on the forgotten corners of Scotland, delivering stories that are as real as they are powerful.

A Lasting Legacy in Scottish Literature

As Best Scottish Independent Author of 2025, Ian Colquhoun’s influence on contemporary literature cannot be overstated. His unrelenting focus on the struggles of working-class communities, combined with his raw storytelling, has earned him a place among the top independent authors in Scotland. With The Blantyre Girl and the Broken Biscuits series, Colquhoun has built a loyal following and established himself as a literary force to be reckoned with.

We look forward to the continued success of Ian Colquhoun and his upcoming projects, as his stories continue to inspire and connect with readers across the globe. His journey as an independent author is one of perseverance, creativity, and deep personal conviction, and it’s clear that his best work is still ahead of him.

Best of Best Review is honored to present Ian Colquhoun with the Best Scottish Independent Author of 2025 award. Colquhoun’s ability to create powerful, thought-provoking works of fiction that resonate deeply with his audience makes him an invaluable voice in Scottish literature. Through his storytelling, he continues to shed light on the struggles, strength, and resilience of the working-class communities of Scotland.

For more information on Ian Colquhoun and his work, visit www.brokenbiscuits.scot and www.iancolquhoun.org.uk. You can also follow him on social media at @IanCwriter on Instagram and X, or visit his Facebook page TheBrokenBiscuits.