Picture a storyteller from northern England who crafts heart-pounding thrillers that keep you glued to the page—meet James P. Sumner! This bestselling author burst onto the scene with his gripping Adrian Hell series, blending dark humor, explosive action, and a charismatic assassin you can’t help but root for. Beyond his pulse-racing novels, Sumner’s passion for mental health advocacy in the self-publishing world makes him a standout figure in modern literature.
Born and raised in the north of England, Sumner’s journey from dreamer to international bestseller is as thrilling as his books. His unique voice and relentless drive have hooked over half a million readers, and his stories are perfect for anyone craving a John Wick-style adventure with a British twist.
The Making of James P. Sumner
Growing up in northern England, James P. Sumner always harbored a love for storytelling. Inspired by action-packed classics like Star Wars and the gritty realism of thriller fiction, he dreamed of becoming a published author. In 2013, after being unexpectedly fired from his day job—a twist he calls the best thing that ever happened to him—Sumner seized the chance to pursue his passion. He dove headfirst into writing, teaching himself the craft and the business of self-publishing, and in 2014, he released his debut novel, True Conviction, the first in the Adrian Hell series.
This bold leap paid off. Sumner’s knack for storytelling and his methodical approach to building a fanbase transformed him from a novice writer to a full-time author, proving that sometimes life’s curveballs lead to the greatest victories.
James P. Sumner’s Unforgettable Stories
Sumner’s Adrian Hell series is the heart of his literary legacy, following the titular assassin—a complex antihero haunted by loss but guided by a fierce moral code. True Conviction introduces Adrian as he takes on a seemingly simple hit in Nevada, only to uncover a global conspiracy. Its fast-paced plot and first-person narrative put readers right in Adrian’s head, a style that’s become Sumner’s signature.
Hunter’s Games, the second book, ramps up the stakes as Adrian confronts crime lord Wilson Trent, the man responsible for his family’s death, in a revenge-fueled showdown packed with twists. A Necessary Kill, a 2015 Kindle Scout winner, sees Adrian battling a devastating terrorist plot, earning praise for its plausible stakes and intense dialogue. Thicker Than Blood, which snagged ATAI Best Thriller and Best General Fiction awards in 2017, dives into conspiracy and betrayal, showcasing Sumner’s ability to balance action with emotional depth.
Sumner’s style is a cocktail of blockbuster action, witty banter, and thought-provoking themes like justice and redemption. His other series, like GlobaTech and the sci-fi A Chorus of Stars, expand his range, but Adrian Hell remains his crown jewel, drawing comparisons to Jack Reacher and Jason Bourne.
Why James P. Sumner Matters
James P. Sumner’s impact goes beyond his page-turning thrillers. As a self-published author, he’s a trailblazer in the indie world, sharing his journey to inspire others. His mental health advocacy, rooted in personal experience, resonates deeply, as he uses his platform to promote awareness and support within the self-publishing community. This commitment adds a layer of authenticity to his work, connecting with readers who see him as both a storyteller and a relatable voice.
With a 2024 move to the U.S. and a deal with Vinci Books to bring his novels to bookstore shelves worldwide, Sumner’s star is still rising. His ability to craft unforgettable characters and champion meaningful causes ensures his legacy will endure in the thriller genre and beyond.
- Born: Northern England
- Key Works: True Conviction, Hunter’s Games, A Necessary Kill, Thicker Than Blood
- Awards: 2015 Kindle Scout Winner, 2017 ATAI Best Thriller and Best General Fiction
Snag True Conviction and dive into James P. Sumner’s thrilling world of assassins, conspiracies, and dark humor—you won’t put it down!