Picture a Welsh storyteller who turned a lifetime of setbacks into gripping cozy mysteries Sheffield mysteries—meet P.F. Ford! This indie author, who found his calling later in life, has captivated readers with the Slater and Norman Mystery series. With a knack for blending police procedural elements with humor and heart, Ford’s journey from unfulfilling jobs to literary success is as inspiring as his stories.
Ford’s tales, set in the quaint towns of England and Wales, offer a refreshing escape for fans of cozy mysteries. His characters, like the endearing detectives Dave Slater and Norman Norman, feel like old friends, navigating twists and turns with wit and humanity.
The Making of P.F. Ford
Born in Wales, P.F. (Peter) Ford spent much of his life feeling like a square peg in a round hole. As a grammar school dropout, he drifted through various jobs, from manual labor to office roles, none of which sparked joy. Early attempts at writing were met with rejection from traditional publishers, leaving Ford discouraged. It wasn’t until his sixties, with the encouragement of his wife, Mary, that he embraced indie publishing and pursued his dream. This transformative partnership and a newfound positive outlook led to his debut novel in 2014, proving it’s never too late to chase your passion.
P.F. Ford’s Unforgettable Stories
Ford’s Slater and Norman Mystery series is the heart of his bibliography, blending cozy mystery charm with police procedural grit. The series kicks off with Death of a Temptress, where DS Dave Slater, scapegoated for a botched case, reopens a missing person’s investigation, uncovering a web of lies. Partnered with the disheveled yet sharp DS Norman Norman, their dynamic—marked by bickering and loyalty—drives the narrative.
Other standout titles include Just a Coincidence, a twisty tale of murder and mistaken identities, and A Puzzle of Old Bones, which unravels a decades-old mystery involving skeletal remains. Ford’s latest, A Body Under the Bridge (2024), set in the rainy Welsh town of Llangwelli, showcases his knack for vivid settings and complex puzzles. His style—light, humorous, and character-driven—avoids gore, focusing instead on believable characters and intricate plots that keep readers guessing.
Beyond the series, Ford has penned the Alfie Bowman Novellas, a quirky, polarizing set of stories he calls ‘digital fiction marmite’—readers either love or hate them. He also wrote self-help books under the name Peter Ford, exploring the benefits of positive thinking, a theme that echoes in his own life.
Why P.F. Ford Matters
Ford’s impact lies in his relatable storytelling and his triumph over adversity. His indie success challenges traditional publishing norms, showing that persistence and self-belief can break barriers. Fans praise his ability to craft immersive Welsh settings and flawed, human characters, making his books a comforting yet thrilling read. For aspiring authors, Ford’s late-blooming career is a beacon of hope, proving dreams have no expiration date.
About P.F. Ford
- Key Works: Slater and Norman Mystery series, Alfie Bowman Novellas
- Genre: Cozy Mystery, Police Procedural
- First Novel: Death of a Temptress (2014)
- Residence: Wales, with wife Mary and three dogs
Snag Death of a Temptress and dive into P.F. Ford’s delightful world of cozy mysteries! Whether you’re a sleuthing enthusiast or just love a good story, his books promise humor, heart, and plenty of surprises.