Picture a Liverpool storyteller who swapped the courtroom for the crime scene, weaving gritty tales that pulse with raw energy—meet Caz Finlay! This former Senior Probation Officer turned bestselling author of the Bad Blood series has captivated readers with her thrilling dive into Liverpool’s underworld, blending her unique insight into human behavior with heart-pounding narratives.
Finlay’s journey from criminal justice to crime fiction is as compelling as her novels. Her ability to craft complex characters and twisty plots has made her a standout voice in contemporary crime fiction, earning her a loyal following and comparisons to genre giants like Martina Cole.
The Making of Caz Finlay
Born and raised in Liverpool, Caz Finlay’s life was shaped by the city’s vibrant yet gritty streets. With two BA Hons degrees in Criminal Justice and Community Justice, she spent 17 years as a Senior Probation Officer, delving into the psychology of human behavior. This fascination with why people act as they do became the bedrock of her writing. The tragic loss of her son in 2016 was a turning point, reigniting her passion for storytelling and leading to her debut novel, The Boss, in 2019. This personal tragedy fueled her creative drive, transforming grief into gripping fiction.
Caz Finlay’s Unforgettable Stories
Finlay’s Bad Blood series, set in Liverpool’s gangland, is her crowning achievement. The series kicks off with The Boss, where Grace Sumner evolves from a battered wife to a formidable crime boss, navigating a world of betrayal and power. Its raw, fast-paced narrative hooked readers, blending gritty realism with emotional depth. Back in the Game, the second book, sees Grace return to save her son Jake from dangerous enemies, showcasing Finlay’s knack for family-driven drama.
Head of the Firm and Liverpool Loyalty further cement Grace as a fierce yet empathetic queen of the underworld, tackling threats from rival gangsters and law enforcement. Finlay’s style—sharp dialogue, vivid settings, and psychological depth—draws heavily from her criminal justice background, making her stories feel authentic. Her novels explore themes of loyalty, vengeance, and redemption, with Liverpool’s dark underbelly as a vivid backdrop. Currently, she’s working on the seventh and eighth installments, keeping fans on edge.
Beyond the Bad Blood series, Finlay writes dark romance under the pen name Sadie Kincaid, showcasing her versatility. As a co-founder of Perfect Crime, Liverpool’s first crime fiction festival, she’s also fostering a community for crime writing enthusiasts, amplifying her influence in the genre.
Why Caz Finlay Matters
Caz Finlay’s impact lies in her ability to humanize the underworld, crafting characters like Grace Sumner who are both ruthless and relatable. Her stories resonate with readers who crave authentic, emotionally charged crime fiction. By drawing on her probation officer experience, she offers a rare perspective on the criminal psyche, making her work both thrilling and thought-provoking. Her rise from personal tragedy to literary success inspires aspiring authors, proving resilience can birth remarkable art.
Finlay’s contribution to Liverpool’s cultural scene, through Perfect Crime and her vivid portrayal of the city, has also put her hometown on the crime fiction map. Her growing fanbase eagerly awaits each new release, a testament to her storytelling prowess.
- Birthplace: Liverpool, UK
- Key Works: The Boss, Back in the Game, Head of the Firm, Liverpool Loyalty
- Notable Role: Co-founder of Perfect Crime festival
Ready to dive into Liverpool’s dark side? Snag The Boss and get lost in Caz Finlay’s thrilling world of gangland drama!