Picture a British storyteller who unearths family secrets with the precision of a detective—meet Nathan Dylan Goodwin! Born in the historic town of Hastings, England, Goodwin has captivated readers worldwide with his unique blend of genealogical research and gripping crime mysteries. His Forensic Genealogist series, starring the tenacious Morton Farrier, has carved a niche in the literary world, merging historical intrigue with modern sleuthing.
Goodwin’s knack for storytelling isn’t just a job—it’s a lifelong passion rooted in his fascination with family history. From sketching family trees as a child to crafting bestselling novels, he’s turned his love for the past into thrilling tales that keep readers guessing. Let’s dive into the life, works, and legacy of this genealogical mastermind!
The Making of Nathan Dylan Goodwin
Born in Hastings, East Sussex, Nathan Dylan Goodwin grew up surrounded by stories of his hometown’s rich history. As a twelve-year-old, he began tracing his family tree, poring over his grandmother’s scrapbooks and visiting ancestral graves. This early curiosity laid the foundation for his career. After earning a degree in Radio, Film, and Television Studies, he pursued a Master’s in Creative Writing at Canterbury Christ Church University, where the idea for a crime-solving genealogist took shape. Before fiction, Goodwin penned local history books like Hastings at War, honing his research skills while working as a primary school teacher.
Nathan Dylan Goodwin’s Unforgettable Stories
Goodwin’s signature Forensic Genealogist series, launched in 2013 with Hiding the Past, follows Morton Farrier, a forensic genealogist unraveling historical mysteries. In this debut, Morton digs into a client’s murky past, uncovering secrets tied to World War II. The second book, The Lost Ancestor (2014), sees Morton investigating a housemaid’s 1911 disappearance, blending Edwardian drama with modern suspense. His novella The Orange Lilies explores Morton’s own family history against the backdrop of World War I, while The Asylum, a free prequel, delves into a chilling 19th-century mystery.
Beyond this series, Goodwin introduced Mrs. McDougall Investigates, set post-World War I, and the US-based Venator Cold Case series, starting with The Chester Creek Murders (2021). His writing style weaves meticulous genealogical detail with fast-paced plots, appealing to history buffs and mystery lovers alike. Goodwin’s use of real-world research methods, like DNA testing, adds authenticity, making readers feel like they’re solving cases alongside Morton.
His innovative online content, like a choose-your-own-story portal for Morton Farrier during the 2020 lockdown, showcases his creativity. Fans adore how Goodwin balances historical accuracy with heart-pounding twists, earning praise from outlets like Family Tree magazine for his “pulsing, realistic storylines.”
Why Nathan Dylan Goodwin Matters
Nathan Dylan Goodwin has redefined genealogical fiction, transforming a niche interest into a thrilling genre. His novels not only entertain but also inspire readers to explore their own family histories. By spotlighting the power of genealogy to solve mysteries, he’s bridged past and present, earning a loyal following among genealogists and crime fiction fans. His work’s accessibility—standalone novels alongside series—makes it easy for newcomers to jump in.
As a member of the Society of Authors and various family history groups, Goodwin’s influence extends beyond books. He’s a beacon for aspiring writers, proving that passion and persistence can turn a unique idea into a global phenomenon. His stories remind us that every family tree hides a tale waiting to be told.
- Born: Hastings, England
- Key Works: Hiding the Past, The Lost Ancestor, The Asylum, The Chester Creek Murders
- Fun Fact: Goodwin’s love for genealogy began at age twelve, inspired by his grandmother’s scrapbooks.
Ready to unravel a mystery? Snag Hiding the Past and dive into Nathan Dylan Goodwin’s thrilling world of genealogical crime!