Picture a London storyteller who turned the murky River Thames into a chilling crime scene—meet Jon Barton! This multifaceted writer, known for his gripping debut novel Dive, weaves suspenseful tales that hook readers from page one. A seasoned stage and screenwriter, Barton’s journey from pulling pints to penning thrillers is as captivating as his stories.
The Making of Jon Barton
Born and raised in London, Jon Barton’s early life was shaped by a love for storytelling. As a young reader, he devoured works by Roald Dahl, Terry Pratchett, and Michael Crichton, whose blend of science and action sparked his imagination. After earning an MA in Dramaturgy and Script Development from the University of Exeter, Barton faced a tough job market in 2011. Undeterred, he juggled gigs in theaters, pubs, and bookshops, including a stint at the Captain Kidd pub in Wapping. There, conversations with Thames River Police divers inspired his unique perspective on crime fiction.
Barton’s hustle paid off as he broke into screenwriting, contributing to BBC’s Holby City and crafting plays for prestigious venues like the Old Vic and Almeida. His passion for mentoring young writers also shone through, teaching at institutions like City Academy and The Princes Trust.
Jon Barton’s Unforgettable Stories
Barton’s debut novel, Dive (2023), is a pulse-pounding thriller centered on the River Thames, London’s deadliest crime scene. The story follows police diver David Cade, haunted by his missing daughter, and detective Naomi Harding, fighting to redeem her career. Their investigation into bodies surfacing in the Thames unveils a web of drugs and corruption. Barton’s cinematic style, honed through screenwriting, brings vivid tension to every page.
His second novel, Little Creatures, has already garnered buzz, placing third in the 2024 I Am In Print Crime Thriller category and earning shortlist spots for multiple awards. Barton’s theater work, including plays like Bush Meat and Serious Heroes, showcases his knack for raw, emotional narratives performed at venues like Lyric Hammersmith. His screenplays, co-written with Isaac Tomiczek, include a sci-fi feature set for production in 2025, proving his versatility across mediums.
Barton’s writing style is propulsive and immersive, blending gritty realism with psychological depth. His fascination with overlooked perspectives—like police divers—sets him apart in crime fiction, while his Thames-centric narratives transform the river into a character of its own, secretive and unpredictable.
Why Jon Barton Matters
Jon Barton’s impact lies in his ability to shine a light on the unseen corners of London’s criminal underworld. By centering stories on police divers, he’s carved a niche in crime fiction that feels fresh and authentic. His work resonates with readers who crave fast-paced thrillers with flawed, relatable characters. As a mentor, Barton inspires aspiring writers, sharing his expertise through workshops and editing for The Literary Consultancy.
With Dive climbing Kindle charts and Little Creatures gaining acclaim, Barton is a rising star in crime fiction. His cross-medium storytelling—spanning novels, theater, and screen—marks him as a dynamic voice in contemporary literature, one whose tales of resilience and redemption will linger with audiences for years.
- Key Work: Dive (2023), a thriller about police divers on the Thames.
- Education: MA in Dramaturgy and Script Development, University of Exeter.
- Notable Venues: Old Vic, Almeida, Lyric Hammersmith.
- Awards: Little Creatures placed third in I Am In Print 2024 Crime Thriller category.
Ready for a thrilling ride? Snag Dive and plunge into Jon Barton’s gripping world of crime and secrets!