It’s been a while since I posted on the blog, hence the huge update. Firstly, a change of time for Crime Scene. You can now hear the show on Tuesdays between 7-8pm, hosted by local crime writer James Murphy. Each week I review crime TV: series and true crime documentaries across various channels. So do join us at the new time by tuning into Belfast247.

Speaking of local crime writers! I am delighted to have a story in the wonderful ALTERNATIVE ULSTER NOIR anthology, edited by WITNESS author Simon Maltman. 

It contains seven dark stories by NI crime writers, based on music from here. Included are James Murphy, Simon Maltman, Colin Bateman, Sharon Dempsey, Gerard Brennan, Stuart Neville, and myself. Based on songs by Ash, Snow Patrol, Van Morrison, etc. The mix is excellent. 

I highly recommend you nab your copy…

…and come along to the launch at Bangor Library on Thursday 24 March, 7-8.30pm.

Speaking of music (seamless, eh?), I recently visited Seattle to research a new book. Thanks to the Arts Council of NI’s Covid Recovery fund, I was lucky to go to the birthplace of many of my favourite bands. 

There will be a book of noir short stories that comes out as a result. Plus, I’m toying with a novel too. We’ll see how that goes. For now, I am busy editing Harriet Sloane 4, which is coming out next spring.

Speaking of the Arts Council (!!), in 2018 I was awarded an ACES award that supported a research trip to South Dakota. That book, a literary thriller, will be released on 6 May. Here is what some authors who I really admire are saying about SOULS WAX FAIR…

‘An expertly crafted masterpiece! An edgy and unpredictable rollercoaster of a ride.’
Byddi Lee (Rejuvenation trilogy)

‘Beautifully written.’ 
Sarah Stewart Taylor (Maggie D’arcy mysteries)

‘A compelling and brilliant read.’
Sharon Dempsey (Lainey and Stowe mysteries)

About the book:

Powerful men can get away with murder…for only so long.

After a life of hardship, Mary Jane McCord’s life in Rapid City, South Dakota, finally hits a sweet spot. She finds happiness and her singing career takes off. Everything is looking up until she uncovers the dark and secret obsessions of two high-profile men.

Twenty years pass but the people closest to Mary Jane have not forgotten.

Will they bring the truth out into the light?

You can pre-order your eBook copy here. For paperback pre-orders, drop me a line.

Or, if you are based in America and fancy entering the Goodreads giveaway, it is now OPEN.

Good luck.

I’m currently reading Tender is the Flesh. Let me know what you are reading this World Book Day. 

K