Picture an English storyteller who plunged into the dark heart of Putin’s Russia with a fearless female detective—meet G.D. Abson! This acclaimed crime thriller author has captivated readers with his Natalya Ivanova series, blending gritty suspense with sharp insights into post-Soviet society. Known for his authentic storytelling, Abson’s novels pulse with tension, making him a rising star in crime fiction.
Born Garry David in County Durham, England, Abson’s unique journey fuels his gripping narratives. His fascination with Russia, sparked in school, and his knack for crafting complex characters have earned him praise from fans and critics alike. Ready to explore his thrilling world? Let’s dive in!
The Making of G.D. Abson
G.D. Abson’s story begins in County Durham, where he was born and raised on army bases in Germany and Singapore before returning to the UK. His lifelong obsession with Russia ignited while studying the Russian Revolution in school, deepened by university courses on Russian politics during the Soviet Union’s collapse. This fascination shapes his vivid depictions of modern Russia’s complexities. Before writing, Abson worked as a freelance business analyst, but his storytelling passion led him to craft the Natalya Ivanova series, enriched by contacts in the St. Petersburg police force for authenticity.
G.D. Abson’s Unforgettable Stories
Abson’s Natalya Ivanova Thriller series is his crowning achievement, with Motherland (2018) kicking off the saga. This debut, shortlisted for the Crime Writers’ Association Debut Dagger, follows Senior Detective Natalya Ivanova as she investigates a Swedish heiress’s disappearance in St. Petersburg. The novel’s dark, fast-paced plot and vivid Russian setting draw comparisons to Martin Cruz Smith’s Gorky Park. Critics praise its atmospheric depth, exposing corruption and chauvinism in Putin’s Russia.
The sequel, Black Wolf (2019), ups the stakes. Natalya, an honest cop in a corrupt system, probes an anti-Putin activist’s death, risking her career and life. Abson’s style blends police procedural with noir, weaving political intrigue and moral dilemmas. His heroine, a nuanced, relatable figure, navigates a male-dominated force with grit and heart, appealing to fans of Scandinavian crime dramas like The Killing. Abson’s ability to balance tense plots with cultural insights makes his work stand out.
Both novels showcase Abson’s knack for immersive settings—St. Petersburg’s icy winters and shadowy politics leap off the page. His research, including insider police contacts, lends credibility, while his light touch adds humor amid the grit, like witty banter about Swedish stereotypes. More Natalya Ivanova novels are planned, promising further thrilling adventures.
Why G.D. Abson Matters
G.D. Abson’s impact lies in his fresh take on crime fiction, spotlighting modern Russia through a female lens. Natalya Ivanova, a strong yet vulnerable detective, breaks stereotypes, offering a nuanced portrait of a society grappling with its past and present. Abson’s work resonates with readers craving authentic, thought-provoking thrillers, earning him accolades like the Times/Sunday Times Crime Club Star Pick. By tackling themes like corruption and activism, he invites reflection on global issues, cementing his place in the genre.
His growing fanbase, from the UK to the US, proves his universal appeal. For crime fiction lovers, Abson’s novels are a gateway to exploring Russia’s complexities, much like Jo Nesbø’s works illuminate Scandinavia. As he continues the series, Abson’s star is set to rise further.
About G.D. Abson
- Born: County Durham, England
- Key Works: Motherland (2018), Black Wolf (2019)
- Awards: Shortlisted for CWA Debut Dagger (Motherland)
- Fun Fact: Uses pseudonym G.D. Abson; real name is Garry David
Snag Motherland and dive into G.D. Abson’s pulse-pounding crime thrillers! Whether you’re a fan of gritty noir or curious about Russia’s underbelly, his stories will keep you hooked till the last page.