Picture a Geordie storyteller who turned the gritty streets of Tyneside into a thrilling crime hotspot—meet Colin Youngman! Born in 1958 within earshot of the River Tyne’s tugboats, this former public servant has become a bestselling author of pulse-pounding thrillers, most notably his Ryan Jarrod series. With a knack for twists that hit like a Newcastle gust, Youngman’s tales blend mystery, suspense, and a touch of the supernatural, earning him comparisons to giants like Ann Cleeves and James Patterson.
From a nine-year-old comic contributor to a Kindle All-Star award winner, Youngman’s journey is as captivating as his novels. His stories, rooted in the rugged charm of north-east England, pull readers into a world where detectives battle dark forces amid familiar landmarks. Ready to dive into his gripping universe? Let’s explore the man behind the mysteries.
The Making of Colin Youngman
Colin Irving Youngman was born in Tyneside, England, in 1958, growing up in the same borough as legends like Paul Gascoigne and AC/DC’s Brian Johnson. His storytelling spark ignited early—at nine, he won ‘Contribution of the Week’ in Sparky comic, earning a 10-shilling postal order and a transistor radio that lasted two decades. This early taste of publication fueled a lifelong passion for writing. After studying at Blaydon Comprehensive School and later at the University of Cardiff, Youngman built a career as a Senior Executive in the Department for Work and Pensions, all while nurturing his creative side.
His pivot to full-time writing came in 2016, inspired by a chance meeting with fellow Northumberland author LJ Ross at a writer’s convention. Realizing the potential of his native Tyneside as a vivid backdrop, Youngman dusted off a decades-old story idea, setting the stage for his literary breakthrough. His dual life as a TV supporting artiste in shows like Vera and Victoria added a dash of on-screen flair to his off-screen storytelling.
Colin Youngman’s Unforgettable Stories
Youngman’s Ryan Jarrod series is the heart of his bibliography, a collection of gritty crime thrillers set in Newcastle upon Tyne. The series kicks off with The Angel Falls (2020), where Detective Constable Ryan Jarrod investigates a wave of urban terrorism, from murders to bombings, in a city on edge. Its sequel, The Girl on the Quay (2020), dives into the underworld of organized crime, while The Lighthouse Keeper (2020) weaves a serial killer hunt with a political cover-up. The latest, The Tower, pits Jarrod against a vengeful foe in a high-stakes battle above Newcastle’s streets.
Beyond the series, Youngman’s standalone novels like Alley Rat (2018) and The Doom Brae Witch (2019) showcase his versatility. Alley Rat follows a team tracking a serial killer dubbed ‘The Rat,’ while The Doom Brae Witch blends supernatural elements with historical mystery, revisiting a 1700s woodland manor. His TWIST series, including novellas like Dead Lines, experiments with genres from horror to humor, all marked by his signature jaw-dropping twists.
Youngman’s style is visceral and cinematic, with a pace that mirrors James Patterson and a regional authenticity that echoes Ian Rankin. His Tyneside settings—think St James’ Park or the Quayside—come alive, blending industrial grit with human warmth. Readers praise his ability to craft narratives ‘so rich you can smell the Tyne,’ making each book a love letter to his roots.
Why Colin Youngman Matters
Colin Youngman has carved a niche in crime fiction by transforming north-east England into a vibrant stage for storytelling. His Ryan Jarrod series, often called ‘a Geordie Rebus,’ has captivated readers with its relentless pace and emotional depth, sparking calls for TV adaptations. By self-publishing and designing his own book covers, Youngman embodies the modern indie author, proving that passion and persistence can rival traditional publishing giants.
His influence extends beyond books. As a speaker at events like WRITE Festival 2023, Youngman inspires aspiring writers with humorous, heartfelt talks about his journey. His work celebrates Tyneside’s spirit, inviting readers worldwide to see its beauty and complexity through a thrilling lens. For fans of dark, twisty tales, Youngman is a hidden gem worth discovering.
- Born: 1958, Tyneside, England
- Key Works: Ryan Jarrod series, Alley Rat, The Doom Brae Witch
- Awards: Multiple Kindle All-Star Awards
- Fun Fact: Appeared as a TV extra in Vera and Victoria
Snag The Angel Falls and dive into Colin Youngman’s thrilling Tyneside adventures! With twists that’ll leave you gasping, his books are perfect for crime fiction fans craving a fresh voice.