Picture a British-Turkish Cypriot storyteller weaving tales that grip your heart and tickle your funny bone—meet Sibel Hodge! With over a million books sold, this international bestselling author has charmed readers with her thrilling mysteries, romantic comedies, and thought-provoking thrillers. From the chilling Look Behind You to the laugh-out-loud Fourteen Days Later, Hodge’s eclectic style keeps you hooked.
But there’s more to Hodge than her page-turners. A passionate advocate for human and animal rights, she infuses her stories with depth and purpose, making her a standout in contemporary fiction. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this versatile wordsmith!
The Making of Sibel Hodge
Born in the UK with dual British and Turkish Cypriot heritage, Sibel Hodge splits her time between Hertfordshire and North Cyprus. Before becoming a literary star, she worked as a fitness instructor, sports therapist, and even spent a decade with the Hertfordshire Constabulary. Her diverse experiences—from policing to penning health articles—shaped her unique voice. A lifelong reader, Hodge dove into writing with a natural knack for storytelling, blending humor, suspense, and cultural flair.
Her writing journey began with a leap of faith. Without formal creative writing training, she crafted her debut novel, Fourteen Days Later, a romantic comedy that earned accolades like a shortlist for the Harry Bowling Prize 2008. This early success set the stage for her genre-spanning career, proving her storytelling instincts were spot-on.
Sibel Hodge’s Unforgettable Stories
Hodge’s bibliography is a vibrant tapestry of genres, from psychological thrillers to cozy mysteries and romantic comedies. Her #1 bestseller Look Behind You follows Chloe Benson, a teacher trapped in a nightmarish kidnapping, unraveling a psychological thriller that keeps readers guessing. Critics praise its gripping first-person narrative and twisty plot, perfect for fans of tense, emotional rides.
In Untouchable, Hodge tackles themes of abuse and revenge with raw intensity, earning accolades for its unsettling yet compelling storytelling. For a lighter touch, Fourteen Days Later delivers rom-com charm, following accident-prone Helen Grey on a life-changing 14-day challenge infused with British and Turkish Cypriot culture. Her novella Trafficked: The Diary of a Sex Slave stands out for its human rights focus, donating 20% of royalties to anti-trafficking charities and earning a spot among the top 40 books on human rights.
Hodge’s style is versatile yet distinct: she’s a ‘pantser,’ letting stories unfold organically, with vivid characters and sharp dialogue. Whether it’s the screwball comedy of her Amber Fox mysteries or the dark suspense of Duplicity, her ability to cross genres keeps readers coming back for more.
Why Sibel Hodge Matters
Sibel Hodge’s impact goes beyond her million-plus book sales. Her fearless exploration of tough topics—abuse, trafficking, and resilience—resonates with readers worldwide, sparking conversations about human rights. Her advocacy shines through in works like Trafficked, blending storytelling with social good. Awards, including the 2013 eFestival of Words Best Children’s Book and a 2018 Top Shelf Magazine Thriller win, highlight her critical acclaim.
Hodge’s genre-blending approach has inspired indie authors, showing that writing from the heart can break boundaries. Her Turkish Cypriot heritage adds a unique cultural lens, enriching her narratives and connecting with diverse audiences. For fans, she’s a storyteller who entertains, challenges, and uplifts.
- Nationality: British/Turkish Cypriot
- Key Works: Look Behind You, Untouchable, Fourteen Days Later, Trafficked
- Awards: Winner, Best Children’s Book 2013 eFestival of Words; Finalist, 2017 International Thriller Writers Award
- Fun Fact: She has eight cats and calls herself Wonder Woman in her spare time!
Snag Look Behind You or Fourteen Days Later and dive into Sibel Hodge’s thrilling, heartfelt world—your next favorite read awaits!