Picture a Welsh storyteller who weaves gripping crime thrillers against the windswept landscapes of west Wales—meet Rhys Dylan! This rising star in crime fiction has captured readers worldwide with his DCI Evan Warlow series, blending Celtic noir, dark humor, and vivid characters. From the haunting The Engine House to the twist-filled Caution Death At Work, Dylan’s novels are as immersive as the rugged Welsh coast itself.
Born and raised in west Wales, Dylan’s love for his homeland infuses every page, turning its forests, cliffs, and myths into characters as compelling as his detectives. His unique voice and knack for suspense have earned him a loyal following, making him a must-read for fans of gritty mysteries.
The Making of Rhys Dylan
Rhys Dylan grew up in the shadow of the Black Mountains, where the wild beauty of Wales sparked his imagination. After studying in London, he returned to his roots, settling with his wife and a rain-averse dog on the edge of the Beacons. Before writing under his own name, Dylan penned books for children and adults under various pseudonyms, showcasing his versatility across genres. His shift to crime fiction in 2021 marked a turning point, driven by a passion for Celtic noir and a desire to capture the essence of rural Wales.
Dylan’s early career was shaped by his love for storytelling and the moody landscapes of his homeland. The myths and history of Wales, coupled with his sharp wit, laid the foundation for his distinctive style—a blend of suspense, humor, and heart that resonates with readers globally.
Rhys Dylan’s Unforgettable Stories
Dylan’s DCI Evan Warlow series is the heart of his work, with each novel a standalone masterpiece set in the Dyfed-Powys region. The Engine House (2021), his debut, introduces Warlow, a retired detective haunted by a cold case. When a landslip uncovers two bodies, Warlow’s investigation unravels dark secrets, setting the tone for the series with its taut pacing and atmospheric prose.
Caution Death At Work (2022) dives into the Brechfa Forest, where a brutal attack on mountain bikers pulls Warlow back into action. The novel’s intricate plot and surprising twists keep readers guessing, while Dylan’s vivid descriptions make the forest a chilling backdrop. Other standouts include Ice Cold Malice, where a body in tangled kelp reveals a sordid past, and Suffer the Dead, a haunting tale of missing farmers and buried truths. Dylan’s style—sharp dialogue, dark humor, and richly drawn characters—creates a world that feels both intimate and thrilling.
The Welsh setting is more than a backdrop; it’s a living, breathing force in Dylan’s work. His use of Welsh words and local legends adds authenticity, while his focus on the struggles of law enforcement and the underclasses brings depth to the genre. Fans praise his ability to balance gritty crime with moments of levity, making each book a page-turner.
Why Rhys Dylan Matters
Rhys Dylan has carved a niche in crime fiction by putting west Wales on the literary map. His novels offer more than suspense—they explore the human condition, from the toll of trauma to the resilience of small communities. Readers from New Jersey to Australia have embraced his evocative portrayal of Welsh life, with some even planning trips to the areas he describes. Dylan’s work also elevates Welsh crime fiction, contributing to events like the Gwyl Crime Cymru Festival and inspiring a new wave of Celtic noir.
His impact lies in his authenticity and relatability. Warlow, with his sarcastic humor and love for his dog Cadi, feels like a friend you’d meet at a pub. Dylan’s ability to craft compelling mysteries while celebrating his heritage has made him a beloved voice in the genre, with a growing global fanbase eager for more.
- Key Works: The Engine House, Caution Death At Work, Ice Cold Malice, Suffer the Dead
- Genre: Crime Fiction, Celtic Noir
- Home: Black Mountains, Wales
Snag The Engine House and dive into Rhys Dylan’s thrilling world of Welsh crime fiction! With Warlow and Cadi by your side, you’re in for a wild, witty ride through the heart of Wales.