What Kind of British Crime Fiction I Write—and Why It Matters

I write British crime fiction that is grounded, character-led, and psychologically driven.

The stories I’m drawn to are not built around spectacle or shock for its own sake. They are about people—how they think, what they conceal, and how pressure reveals character over time. Crime matters in these novels because of its human consequences, not because of its capacity to surprise.

The DI Joseph Stone series sits firmly within the tradition of modern British police procedurals. Investigations unfold through methodical work, instinct, and collaboration rather than sudden leaps of brilliance or implausible twists. When mistakes are made—and they often are—they feel believable, rooted in fatigue, misjudgement, or incomplete information.

Psychology plays a central role in my writing. I’m interested in motivation rather than monstrosity, in moral ambiguity rather than simple answers. The people at the centre of these stories—both investigators and offenders—are shaped by loss, obsession, loyalty, and fear. Few of them see themselves as villains, and fewer still behave in ways that are easily categorised.

Place matters too. Oxford is not simply a backdrop in these books; it is part of their fabric. Its beauty, history, and quiet contradictions sit alongside darker truths. Ordinary streets, familiar landmarks, and seemingly safe spaces often become settings for unsettling events, because that contrast feels honest.

These are slow-burn novels rather than high-octane thrill rides. Tension accumulates gradually. Clues emerge over time. Characters reveal themselves piece by piece. Readers who enjoy being immersed in an investigation—rather than rushed through one—tend to feel most at home here.

I write British crime fiction for readers who value atmosphere, psychological depth, and a strong sense of realism. For those who prefer stories that trust the reader, take their time, and explore complexity rather than noise.

If that sounds like the kind of crime fiction you enjoy, then these books were written with you in mind.