Picture a British storyteller who swapped patent law for pulse-pounding mysteries set in the rugged Peak District—meet Roz Watkins! This critically acclaimed author burst onto the crime fiction scene with her Dagger Award-nominated debut, The Devil’s Dice, weaving intricate plots and fearless takes on contemporary issues that keep readers hooked.
With her DI Meg Dalton series, Watkins crafts stories that blend atmospheric settings, compelling characters, and a dash of the supernatural, earning praise from outlets like The Times. Her journey from a Cambridge-educated patent attorney to a bestselling novelist is as gripping as her books, proving that reinvention can lead to remarkable storytelling.
The Making of Roz Watkins
Roz Watkins grew up with a passion for science, earning a degree in Engineering and Natural Sciences from the University of Cambridge. After university, she carved out a successful career as a patent attorney, eventually becoming a partner at a Derby-based firm. But the lure of storytelling was too strong. Inspired by her love for the Peak District’s brooding landscapes and her knack for crafting creative narratives, Watkins transitioned to writing full-time, channeling her analytical mind into building twisty crime novels.
Her shift wasn’t just a career change—it was a bold leap into a new world. Watkins, also a qualified hypnotherapist and animal trainer, brought her eclectic experiences to her writing, infusing her stories with authenticity and a touch of quirkiness. Living in Cornwall with her partner and two demanding cats, she now draws inspiration from coastal walks and the eerie beauty of her surroundings.
Roz Watkins’s Unforgettable Stories
Watkins’s DI Meg Dalton series, set in the hauntingly beautiful Peak District, is her signature work. Her debut, The Devil’s Dice (2018), introduces Detective Inspector Meg Dalton, a tenacious cop grappling with a mysterious death in a cave tied to a century-old curse. Shortlisted for the Crime Writers’ Association Debut Dagger Award and optioned by ITV Studios, it was lauded as The Times Crime Book of the Month for its shivery atmosphere and clever plotting.
The series continues with Dead Man’s Daughter (2019), where Meg investigates a chilling murder linked to a heart transplant, and Cut to the Bone (2020), a tense thriller tackling factory farming through the disappearance of a controversial vlogger. Watkins also penned a standalone thriller, The Red House (2021), showcasing her versatility. Her style blends police procedural with psychological depth, weaving controversial themes like assisted suicide and animal rights into gripping narratives, all set against the stark beauty of Derbyshire’s caves and moors.
Known for her flawed yet relatable characters, Watkins crafts stories that balance suspense with humor and heart. Her ability to tackle tough issues without preaching has earned her a loyal following, with readers praising Meg Dalton’s vulnerability and dogged determination.
Why Roz Watkins Matters
Roz Watkins has carved a niche in British crime fiction by blending traditional detective work with bold social commentary. Her novels don’t shy away from thorny topics, making readers think while keeping them on the edge of their seats. The Peak District, vividly brought to life in her work, becomes a character in itself, adding a unique flavor to the genre.
Her impact extends beyond books. As a Royal Literary Fund fellow, Watkins mentors aspiring writers, sharing her journey from law to literature. Her contribution to anthologies like Noir from the Bar, which supported the NHS during the pandemic, reflects her commitment to community. Watkins’s reinvention inspires those daring to chase creative dreams, proving it’s never too late to tell stories that matter.
- Key Works: The Devil’s Dice, Dead Man’s Daughter, Cut to the Bone, The Red House
- Awards: Shortlisted for CWA Debut Dagger Award (2016)
- Fun Fact: Watkins clicker-trains her dog and horse, scouting murder locations on Peak District walks!
Snag The Devil’s Dice and dive into Roz Watkins’s thrilling world of crime, curses, and clever detectives!