Today (25th November 2020) is publication day for the first two in a new series of guides for writers and crime fans, written with my friend, crime historian Stephen Wade. The books examine specific subjects in detail from a historical and contemporary perspective, with case studies and practical examples for context.
I first met Stephen at a literary festival in 2015 when I was chairing a panel of crime writers. Stephen was one of those writers and we got chatting and met up during the following months and years. We thought it may be a good idea to write a book together, combining our experience and knowledge for the benefit of those interested in crime, whether readers or writers.
In December 2017, our first book ‘The Crime Writer’s Casebook‘ was published http://amazon.co.uk/dp/B077DS63GR/ and covers subjects such as Murder investigation, forensic pathology and DNA. From the chaotic murder scenes of centuries past to the modern technology used to track down the killer, the ‘Casebook’ has proved hugely popular with those interested in true crime.
We published our second book ‘Being a Detective‘ http://amazon.co.uk/dp/1847168892/ in March 2019. This book focuses on the role of the UK detective, from the creation of the first professional department in 1842 to modern-day crime investigators. Summed up as ‘An A-Z Readers’ and Writers’ Guide to Detective work past and present’, the book is structured in an alphabetical format with over 100 individual subject entries. From the ABC principle of crime investigation to Zombie knife, the book covers a wide range of topics linked to the work of a detective.
Our new guides are intended to be not only interesting to read but also useful reference for anyone who is an established or aspiring crime writer. The first two, published today, deal with topics which always encourage debate and can cause confusion, even to those who have experience in such matters.
‘A Comprehensive Guide to Arrest and Detention‘ amazon.co.uk/dp/1913342514/ deals with the historical concept of an arrest and the issues surrounding incarceration as well as clear explanations of the modern law and contemporary policing practices. It includes a step by step walk-through of the processes and procedures following an arrest, from that point until an outcome is decided.
‘A Comprehensive Guide to Burglary and Robbery‘ http://amazon.co.uk/dp/1913342506/ outlines the law and differences between the two criminal offences, from early historical examples to the introduction of the Theft Act 1968 and beyond. The book also includes detailed explanations of the current police response to, and investigation of, these types of crimes.
As we celebrate publication day, covid-style, we hope that those who read the books find them interesting and want you to know that we are extremely grateful for your support.
