Picture a British storyteller who swapped a mundane career for the pulse-pounding world of crime fiction—meet A.D. Davies! Born in Guildford and raised in Leeds, Davies has carved a niche with his gripping Alicia Friend series, blending quirky detective work with dark, twisty thrillers. His journey from aspiring horror novelist to acclaimed crime author is a tale of passion, persistence, and a knack for keeping readers on edge.
With a creative writing degree from the University of Leeds and a love for global adventures, Davies infuses his stories with rich, authentic details. His unique protagonist, Detective Sergeant Alicia Friend, has won hearts with her perky charm and razor-sharp mind. Ready to dive into his world? Let’s explore the man behind the mysteries!
The Making of A.D. Davies
Born in Guildford, Surrey, and raised in Leeds, West Yorkshire, A.D. Davies grew up dreaming of penning horror novels. But as he matured, crime fiction stole his heart, inspired by gritty British noir and intricate police procedurals. After years in an unfulfilling job, Davies took a leap, enrolling at the University of Leeds to study creative writing. This pivotal move sharpened his craft and set the stage for his literary career.
His travels to New Zealand and Vietnam added a global flair to his storytelling, though he now resides in Staffordshire, UK, with his wife and two children. Davies’s shift from horror to crime reflects his ability to adapt and evolve, a trait that defines his dynamic narratives.
A.D. Davies’s Unforgettable Stories
Davies’s flagship creation, the Alicia Friend series, kicked off with His First His Second in 2014. This debut introduces Detective Sergeant Alicia Friend, a seemingly bubbly cop with a brilliant mind for profiling killers. Set in Leeds, the novel weaves a chilling tale of kidnap-murders, with Alicia racing against time to unravel a high-society family’s secrets. Readers praise its unpredictable twists and Alicia’s unique blend of wit and vulnerability.
The series continues with In Black In White, where Alicia tackles a politically charged murder case in the U.S., showcasing Davies’s knack for cross-cultural intrigue. With Courage With Fear pits her against a devious serial killer, cementing her as a fan favorite. Davies’s style—fast-paced, character-driven, and laced with psychological depth—draws comparisons to Val McDermid, with a dash of British humor. His Adam Park series, featuring a hard-boiled private investigator, further highlights his versatility in crafting action-packed thrillers.
Each novel stands alone, but recurring characters and subtle arcs reward loyal readers. Davies’s research into criminal psychology and British police procedures shines through, grounding his stories in authenticity while delivering heart-pounding suspense.
Why A.D. Davies Matters
A.D. Davies has revitalized British crime fiction by introducing Alicia Friend, a female detective who defies stereotypes with her quirky charm and fierce intellect. His ability to balance complex plots with relatable characters has earned him a dedicated following, particularly among fans of police procedurals and serial killer thrillers. By making his debut novel accessible with a dyslexia-friendly edition, Davies shows a commitment to inclusivity, broadening his reach.
His influence extends beyond books, inspiring aspiring writers to pursue their dreams, much as he did by pivoting careers. Davies’s global perspective and meticulous research add depth to the genre, proving that even lesser-known authors can leave a lasting mark.
- Born: Guildford, Surrey, UK
- Key Works: His First His Second, In Black In White, With Courage With Fear, Adam Park series
- Resides: Staffordshire, UK
- Influences: British crime noir, global travels
Snag His First His Second and dive into A.D. Davies’s thrilling world of crime and clever detectives!