Picture a British storyteller who swapped tech startups and drumsticks for cozy mysteries that keep readers guessing—meet A.G. Barnett! This internationally bestselling Amazon author has won hearts worldwide with his clever, Agatha Christie-inspired tales. From the quirky charm of the Brock and Poole series to the sharp-witted Mary Blake mysteries, Barnett’s knack for blending humor, suspense, and intricate plots makes every book a delightful escape.
With over 150,000 books sold across 80 countries, Barnett’s journey from North Devon to literary stardom is as fascinating as his stories. His unique blend of small-town secrets and larger-than-life characters has cemented his place in the cozy mystery genre, perfect for fans craving a modern twist on classic whodunnits.
The Making of A.G. Barnett
Born on August 18, 1981, in North Devon, England, A.G. Barnett grew up surrounded by the rolling hills that later inspired his quaint, secretive villages. Before picking up the pen, he lived a vibrant, eclectic life. Barnett played drums—enthusiastically, if a bit erratically—in a band, worked on digital resources for the visually impaired, and dabbled in a digital supply chain startup. For over a decade, he’s been a key figure in the charitable sector, focusing on online health information. This diverse background infuses his writing with authenticity, from tech-savvy plot twists to heartfelt community dynamics.
Barnett’s love for Agatha Christie and the golden age of mystery sparked his writing career. In 2018, he debuted with An Occupied Grave, the first in the Brock and Poole series, published under his own Oddmoor Press. Now living in Oxfordshire with his wife, daughter, two spaniels, and two rabbits (all delightfully ridiculous, by his account), Barnett crafts stories that feel like a warm cup of tea laced with intrigue.
A.G. Barnett’s Unforgettable Stories
Barnett’s Brock and Poole mysteries follow Detective Inspector Sam Brock and Detective Sergeant Guy Poole, a dynamic duo tackling murders in the fictional town of Bexford. An Occupied Grave (2018) kicks off with a shocking discovery: a fresh body in a grave meant for someone else. Readers love the series’ old-fashioned whodunit vibe, packed with twists and a touch of humor. A Staged Death (2018) sees the pair unravel a theatrical murder, while When the Party Died (2018) weaves personal drama into a museum-set mystery.
The Mary Blake mysteries offer a different flavor, starring a former TV detective turned real-life sleuth. In An Invitation to Murder (2019), Mary faces a locked-room puzzle where she’s the prime suspect. Lightning Strikes Twice (2020) explores a village murder echoing a decades-old crime. Barnett’s style shines through vivid characters, cozy settings, and plots that balance suspense with levity, earning comparisons to Faith Martin and Stella Cameron.
In 2022, Barnett launched the Closed Circle Mysteries, promising more intricate puzzles. His ability to craft believable relationships—like Brock’s marital woes or Mary’s reinvention—adds depth, while his Christie-inspired red herrings keep readers hooked. Fans praise his clean, accessible prose, free of graphic content, making his books perfect weekend reads.
Why A.G. Barnett Matters
A.G. Barnett has carved a niche in cozy mysteries by blending nostalgic charm with modern flair. His series, enjoyed in over 80 countries, offer escapism through relatable characters and clever plots. By self-publishing through Oddmoor Press, he’s shown how independent authors can thrive, inspiring aspiring writers. His charitable work and diverse career also resonate, proving storytelling can bloom from unexpected roots.
Barnett’s impact lies in his ability to make readers feel at home in his worlds, whether it’s Bexford’s bustling station or Mary’s village. His stories remind us that mysteries aren’t just about solving crimes—they’re about the people and secrets that shape them.
- Born: August 18, 1981, North Devon, England
- Key Works: Brock and Poole series, Mary Blake series, Closed Circle Mysteries
- Notable: Over 150,000 books sold worldwide
- Fun Fact: Lives with two spaniels and two rabbits he calls ‘ridiculous’
Snag An Occupied Grave or An Invitation to Murder and dive into A.G. Barnett’s cozy, twist-filled mysteries today!