Picture a British storyteller weaving gritty crime tales in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales—meet David J. Gatward! This bestselling mystery author has captured readers worldwide with his DCI Harry Grimm series, blending suspense, humor, and vivid settings. From his Somerset home, Gatward crafts stories that keep you guessing, proving that small towns hide big secrets.
Born in Bristol in 1973, Gatward’s journey to literary stardom is as twist-filled as his novels. His knack for storytelling and love for the eerie landscapes of England have made him a standout in crime fiction, with over two million copies sold.
The Making of David J. Gatward
Growing up across the Cotswolds, Wensleydale, and Lincolnshire due to his father’s work as a Methodist minister, Gatward’s childhood was steeped in diverse English landscapes. At ten, Alan Garner’s The Weirdstone of Brisingamen sparked his dream of becoming a writer. He published his first novel at eighteen in 1992, a bold start for a young storyteller. Before fully embracing writing, Gatward explored publishing, worked as an elementary school teacher, and even served as Managing Director at Kevin Mayhew Publishers. These experiences enriched his narrative depth, grounding his tales in real-world grit.
David J. Gatward’s Unforgettable Stories
Gatward’s DCI Harry Grimm series, launched with Grimm Up North in 2020, is his crowning achievement. This 21-book saga follows a scarred ex-paratrooper turned detective tackling murders in the Yorkshire Dales. The series blends dark mysteries with humor and richly drawn characters, like the quirky locals Harry encounters. Best Served Cold explores revenge-driven killings, while Corpse Road delves into a chilling military-style murder, showcasing Gatward’s knack for intricate plots.
In 2024, Gatward introduced the DI Haig Crime Thrillers with The Somerset Slayings, set in his adopted home of Somerset. This spin-off follows DI Gordy Haig, a fan-favorite from the Grimm series, as she navigates grief and gruesome crimes. Gatward’s style—vivid settings, flawed heroes, and a touch of the supernatural—makes his stories both thrilling and relatable. His horror influences, from Stephen King to Clive Barker, add a creepy edge to his mysteries.
Beyond crime, Gatward has written for children and young adults, including the Dead Trilogy under Hodder Children, and ghostwritten for major crime titles. His versatility shines, but it’s his ability to make the Yorkshire Dales and Somerset feel alive that keeps readers hooked.
Why David J. Gatward Matters
Gatward’s impact lies in his ability to transform quiet English countryside into stages for gripping drama. His DCI Harry Grimm series has sold over two million copies, earning praise for its evocative settings and relatable characters. Fans love the blend of cozy community vibes with dark, twisty plots, making his books perfect for crime fiction lovers. His newer DI Haig series expands his legacy, proving his storytelling evolves with each book.
Gatward’s journey from a teen author to a full-time novelist inspires aspiring writers. His perseverance, diverse career, and love for England’s landscapes resonate, making him a beloved figure in modern mystery writing.
- Born: March 1973, Bristol, England
- Key Works: DCI Harry Grimm series, DI Haig Crime Thrillers, Dead Trilogy
- Awards: Leeds Children’s Book Award winner, shortlisted for 2023 Kindle Storyteller Award
- Fun Fact: He appeared on a Hellraiser DVD box set discussing Clive Barker’s work!
Snag Grimm Up North and dive into David J. Gatward’s thrilling world of Yorkshire mysteries!