Giles Murray

Giles Murray is a British author best known for his work in the mystery and suspense genres. He was born and raised in Northampton, United Kingdom, where he completed his schooling.

After completing a degree in English literature and language at the University of Northampton, Murray got a job as a copywriter with a financial services firm in London. While working in London, he began writing fiction part-time, soon signing with independent publisher Carina UK. His debut novel, The Killer Within, was published in 2007 and was a finalist for the 2007 CWA Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for best thriller.

The success of The Killer Within led to other titles being published, including Dark Angel, Lost Souls, and Illicit. Murray is best known for his work in the police procedural genre, combining meticulous research with his own imagination to explore the details with which police investigate and seek justice in their cases. He creates vivid settings and develops compelling characters that drives his suspenseful plotlines.

The influence of the Hardy Boys and Agatha Christie, two of Murray’s favorite authors, is evident in his writing. While his stories take place in present-day England, he brings elements of classic detective stories to life. His characters are often complex, often endearing and deeply flawed. As a British author, Murray focuses on his home country, through strikingly accurate depictions of life in England and its political climate today. His characters often struggle with moral dilemmas and investigate cases that press against the boundaries of law and justice.

In addition to his work in fiction, Murray has also written several non-fiction books. Most Notable is British Undercover, a comprehensive look at the history and culture of British undercover police officers, focusing on key cases and the lives of those involved. The book was praised for its thoughtful exploration of a difficult topic.

Murray is an advocate for greater representation of diversity in literature. When asked about his experience as an author, he responded with an honest assessment of the challenges of writing in a predominantly white industry. His work often provides a platform for minority voices, portraying characters from different backgrounds and exploring how the challenges of racism and sexism infiltrate the criminal justice system.

Murray’s books have been translated into over 20 languages and he is the recipient of numerous accolades, including the 2019 Rule of Law Award from the Queen’s College, Oxford, for his work in promoting access to justice. He also serves as Writer in Residence at the University of Northampton.

Giles Murray is an acclaimed and prolific author adored by readers of all ages. His writing is intricate, suspenseful and authentic, bringing readers into an astonishingly real world of criminal and moral exploration.