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Rebus Novels Enter the World of Politics

It will be a bruising encounter between one of the world’s most heavyweight politicians and one of Edinburgh’s toughest-talking detectives. Detective Inspector John Rebus is about to collide, quite literally, with the President of the United States of America, George W Bush, on a skidding bicycle. Award-winning crime writer Ian Rankin’s penultimate Rebus novel will wind the events of this year’s G8 summit in Scotland into a new mystery, putting the eccentric policeman at the heart of the action.

Rebus on Foot Patrol at Gleneagles

Edinburgh-based Rankin, known for his politically engaged books, reveals that Rebus will be snooping around Gleneagles on foot patrol, contrary to previous reports. While Rebus is expected to find terrorists, he instead finds himself entangled with Bush, who has decided to take a break from discussions and celebrate his 59th birthday by biking around the grounds. The President, unprepared for the slippery Scottish drizzle, skids into Rebus, resulting in another painful encounter with power.

A Contemporary Twist

Rankin's final Rebus novels aim to be increasingly contemporary, addressing real-world issues. In his novel set among refugees and asylum seekers, "Fleshmarket Close," Rankin delves into the controversial Dungavel detention center. Now, with his new Rebus novel, Rankin turns his attention to the G8 summit and anti-poverty events of last July. Drawing on his experience at the march to Make Poverty History in Edinburgh, Rankin plans to incorporate Rebus as the policeman hit by Bush on his bike, offering his own perspective on the events.

Relevant Setting for Social Issues

Rather than being intimidated by the bombs in London that made the public fearful, Rankin believes that the G8 summit is merely a "talking-shop" while decisions are made by civil servants. By incorporating the march into his book, Rankin aims to shed light on the social issues surrounding poverty. Despite his fondness for a pint at the Oxford Bar, Rebus may miss some of the action due to his leisurely visit to his favorite haunt. The story also touches on the unexpected closure of Ann Summers, suggesting a humorous link to the basque separatists.

Short Stories for a Good Cause

Rankin will also feature the events of the summer in a short story for a volume that will raise money for Edinburgh's One City Trust. This collection of stories includes contributions from Alexander McCall Smith and Irvine Welsh. Rowling will write an introduction to the volume, which is set to be published by Polygon in December. The book will be launched with a special reading and Q&A session at the Festival Theatre in Edinburgh.

Hotels and Travel Accommodations

The G8 summit held in Gleneagles highlighted the importance of hotels and travel accommodations for such high-profile events. Luxury hotels like Gleneagles played a significant role in providing accommodation for the world's political leaders and their delegations.

Hotels in the vicinity of the summit, including Gleneagles, experienced an influx of guests during the G8 summit. These establishments had to ensure tight security measures while providing top-notch services to their distinguished guests. The summit showcased the capability of Scottish hotels to handle large-scale events and cater to the needs of global leaders.

Moreover, the G8 summit also led to an increase in tourism and visitors to Scotland. Many attendees and journalists required accommodation in nearby hotels, further boosting the local economy. The success of such events relies not only on the discussions and decisions made but also on the efficiency and comfort of the hotels hosting the participants.

The Impact of Events on the Hospitality Industry

Events like the G8 summit not only put the spotlight on the host country but also present an opportunity for its hospitality industry to shine. Hotels have to adapt and cater to the specific requirements of high-profile guests, providing them with exclusive facilities and services.

Such events bring increased revenue to the hotel and tourism sector, as delegates, media personnel, and visitors require accommodation, dining, and transportation. The international exposure of the summit also raises the country's profile as a desirable tourist destination.

In addition to hosting major political events, hotels play a crucial role in supporting local charities and initiatives, as seen in Rankin's collaboration with the One City Trust charity. These partnerships elevate the hotel industry's social responsibility and impact on the community.

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