Picture a London-based storyteller who spins tales of gritty crime and pulse-pounding suspense—meet Leopold Borstinski! This former business professional turned bestselling author has carved a niche in the world of crime thrillers, captivating readers with his raw, noir-infused narratives. Best known for the Lagotti Family series, Borstinski’s work blends intense drama, complex characters, and a dash of dark humor, making him a standout in independent publishing.
With over a dozen novels since his 2017 debut, Borstinski’s journey from financial journalism to crafting gripping crime fiction is as fascinating as his stories. His globetrotting life and philosophical musings infuse his work with a unique edge, drawing readers into the underbelly of organized crime. Ready to dive into his world? Let’s explore the man behind the thrillers!
The Making of Leopold Borstinski
Leopold Borstinski’s path to authorship wasn’t a straight line. Before penning crime novels, he navigated diverse careers in financial journalism, business management, consulting, and teaching. Armed with a Philosophy degree, he brings a reflective depth to his storytelling. Based near London with his wife and child, Borstinski’s extensive travels across Europe, the US, and Asia shape the vivid settings and intricate plots of his books. His shift to writing began with a desire to create, fueled by a love for noir and the gritty realism of crime fiction.
Leopold Borstinski’s Unforgettable Stories
Borstinski’s bibliography is a treasure trove of suspense, with the six-book Lagotti Family series at its heart. Set in the 1960s, The Heist, the series’ opener, follows ex-con Frank and his girlfriend Mary Lou as they plan a daring bank robbery, only to face betrayal and danger. Its blend of dark humor and high-stakes tension sets the tone for the saga, which explores themes of loyalty, greed, and family ties.
Beyond the Lagotti Family, Borstinski’s Alex Cohen series chronicles a Jewish gangster’s rise through New York’s mob world. The Bowery Slugger, the first book, immerses readers in the violent early 20th-century underworld, while The Mensch wraps the series with a thrilling finale. His standalone novel, The Case, introduces Jake Adkins, a cowardly PI navigating a web of crime from the 1940s to the 1990s. Borstinski’s style—sharp dialogue, morally gray characters, and meticulous historical detail—creates immersive, unputdownable reads.
His latest work, I Confess, launches the Jake Adkins PI series, set in 1950s Los Angeles. This new venture promises more of Borstinski’s signature suspense, cementing his reputation as a versatile storyteller who thrives in the indie publishing space.
Why Leopold Borstinski Matters
Leopold Borstinski’s impact lies in his ability to breathe fresh life into crime fiction. His independent publishing journey showcases the power of self-driven creativity, inspiring aspiring authors to take the leap. By blending historical accuracy with noir aesthetics, he appeals to readers who crave authentic, character-driven stories. His focus on Jewish gangsters and 1960s crime adds cultural depth, shedding light on lesser-explored facets of the genre. Borstinski’s growing fanbase, evident in glowing reviews and chart-topping free Kindle rankings, proves his stories resonate widely.
- Key Works: Lagotti Family series, Alex Cohen series, The Case, I Confess
- Genres: Crime, Noir, Thriller
- Hometown: Near London, UK
Snag The Heist or The Bowery Slugger and dive into Leopold Borstinski’s thrilling world of crime and noir!