Rebus novels are a genre of detective fiction that feature a central character, often a detective, who solves complex mysteries. The term "rebus" refers to a puzzle that uses pictures or symbols to represent words or parts of words, which can also reflect the intricate plots and clues found in these stories. The most famous rebus novels are those written by Ian Rankin, featuring the character John Rebus. These novels often explore themes of morality, justice, and the human condition, set against the backdrop of Edinburgh, Scotland, where the gritty urban landscape plays a significant role in the narrative.