Picture a Cyprus-born storyteller who turned personal trials into gripping psychological thrillers—meet Jo Jakeman! With a knack for unraveling the secrets behind domestic facades, Jakeman has captivated mystery lovers worldwide. Her debut, Sticks and Stones, not only won hearts but also the prestigious Friday Night Live Award at the York Festival of Writing, marking her as a rising star in crime fiction.
From her early days scribbling stories to crafting internationally acclaimed novels, Jakeman’s journey is as thrilling as her plots. Now settled in Cornwall, she weaves tales that blend dark humor, suspense, and female solidarity, inviting readers to question what lies beneath the surface of everyday life.
The Making of Jo Jakeman
Born in Cyprus, Jo Jakeman’s storytelling spark ignited early, penning her first tale at age seven. After years in London’s fast-paced City as an executive headhunter, she faced a life-altering challenge: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. This forced pause became a gift, reigniting her love for writing as a creative escape. Bedridden with a notebook, Jakeman found solace in crafting stories, a passion she pursued seriously as her health improved. Her enrollment in a Curtis Brown Creative writing course and a bold reading at the York Festival of Writing in 2016 changed everything, earning her an agent and a three-book deal with Harvill Secker.
Jo Jakeman’s Unforgettable Stories
Jakeman’s novels are psychological thrillers that dig into the complexities of human relationships, often with a sharp, darkly funny edge. Her debut, Sticks and Stones (2018, published as The Exes’ Revenge in the US), follows Imogen, who locks her abusive husband in a cellar, sparking a tale of revenge and unlikely alliances. Critics praised its pace, twists, and sensitive handling of domestic abuse, earning it a spot on The Guardian’s crime books of the month.
Safe House (2019) tracks Charlie, a former prisoner hiding in a Cornish village, grappling with her past and new threats. Its dual timelines and twisty plot showcase Jakeman’s skill at keeping readers guessing. What His Wife Knew (2020) explores betrayal and loyalty, while One Bad Apple (2024) delves into deception with her signature suspense. Jakeman’s style—lean, emotionally charged, and full of surprises—makes her books unputdownable, blending wit with weighty themes like abuse and redemption.
Why Jo Jakeman Matters
Jo Jakeman’s impact lies in her ability to humanize complex characters and tackle heavy topics with nuance and humor. Her focus on female solidarity and resilience resonates deeply, offering readers both thrills and emotional depth. By drawing from her own experiences, including her battle with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, she brings authenticity to her narratives, inspiring aspiring writers to persevere. Her international translations and awards, like the York Festival win, cement her as a fresh voice in mystery, with a growing fanbase eager for more.
- Born: Cyprus
- Key Works: Sticks and Stones, Safe House, What His Wife Knew, One Bad Apple
- Awards: Friday Night Live 2016, York Festival of Writing
- Current Home: Cornwall, UK
Snag Sticks and Stones and dive into Jo Jakeman’s thrilling world of mystery and revenge—your next page-turner awaits!