Picture a British storyteller who crafts tales of rogue robots, dragon-slaying heroes, and cunning detectives—meet Paul Tomlinson! Born in Nottingham, England, this versatile author has carved a niche in science fiction, crime, and fantasy, blending wit and intrigue in works like Robot Wrecker and Slayer of Dragons. Beyond his novels, Tomlinson’s passion for storytelling shines through his guides for aspiring writers and his dedication to preserving the legacy of sci-fi legend Harry Harrison.
With a knack for unconventional heroes and gripping plots, Tomlinson’s stories invite readers into worlds where magic crackles and mysteries unravel. Let’s dive into the life and works of this genre-hopping wordsmith!
The Making of Paul Tomlinson
Born in 1966 in Nottingham, Paul Tomlinson grew up in a world ripe with imagination. A qualified librarian, he spent years surrounded by books, working in academic libraries and the book trade before turning to writing full-time. His early career wasn’t all about novels, though—he honed his craft through technical writing, creating software manuals. This meticulous side informs his structured storytelling, while his love for genre fiction fueled his creative leap into sci-fi, crime, and fantasy.
Tomlinson’s fascination with speculative worlds led him to contribute to magazines like Starlog and Starburst, where he interviewed authors, sharpening his understanding of the genres he’d later master. Co-creating the official Harry Harrison website cemented his place in the sci-fi community, blending fandom with scholarship.
Paul Tomlinson’s Unforgettable Stories
Tomlinson’s fiction is a playground of diverse genres, united by sharp dialogue and flawed, relatable heroes. In Robot Wrecker (2016), a near-future sci-fi thriller, robot repairman Stevie Houston battles a mysterious force behind murderous machines. The novel’s fast-paced action and tech-driven suspense showcase Tomlinson’s ability to blend grit with innovation.
In the fantasy realm, Slayer of Dragons delivers darkly humorous adventures, with thieves navigating a world where magic and monsters awaken. His crime fiction, like The Sword in the Stone-Dead (2016), part of the Great Vicari Mysteries, follows magician-turned-detective Benjamin Vickery in a 1930s whodunit brimming with charm and clever twists. Tomlinson’s guide, Mystery: How to Write Traditional & Cozy Whodunits, is a masterclass for writers, breaking down the art of planting clues and crafting satisfying reveals.
His writing style—accessible yet layered—appeals to readers who crave both entertainment and depth. Whether it’s the snappy banter of his detectives or the moral dilemmas of his sci-fi heroes, Tomlinson’s stories resonate with a playful yet poignant tone, reflecting his love for genre conventions and his skill at subverting them.
Why Paul Tomlinson Matters
Paul Tomlinson’s impact extends beyond his novels. His writing guides, like Crime Thriller and Character Creation, empower aspiring authors to craft authentic, compelling stories. By demystifying genre tropes, he’s become a mentor to countless writers navigating the complexities of mystery and suspense. His work on the Harry Harrison website preserves the legacy of a sci-fi icon, ensuring fans and scholars alike can explore Harrison’s contributions.
In a crowded literary landscape, Tomlinson stands out for his versatility and dedication. His ability to weave humor, heart, and tension into stories across genres makes him a hidden gem for readers seeking fresh voices in speculative fiction and crime.
- Born: 1966, Nottingham, England
- Key Works: Robot Wrecker, Slayer of Dragons, The Sword in the Stone-Dead, Mystery: How to Write Traditional & Cozy Whodunits
- Notable Role: Co-creator of the official Harry Harrison website
About Paul Tomlinson
Ready to explore thrilling mysteries or epic fantasy? Snag Robot Wrecker or Mystery: How to Write Traditional & Cozy Whodunits and dive into Paul Tomlinson’s captivating worlds!