Picture a British storyteller who weaves suspense so gripping you’ll forget to blink—meet Vikki Patis! This Amazon bestselling author of psychological thrillers has captivated readers with novels like The Diary and Return to Blackwater House. With a knack for exploring the shadows of human relationships and a passion for representing chronic illness in fiction, Patis is a unique voice in modern literature.
Originally from North London and now calling Scotland home, Patis channels her personal experiences into stories that resonate deeply. Her work isn’t just about thrills; it’s about the messy, beautiful complexity of life, making her a standout in the psychological suspense genre.
The Making of Vikki Patis
Vikki Patis’s journey to becoming a bestselling author wasn’t a straight path. Diagnosed with Perthes disease as a child and later with fibromyalgia and coeliac disease, she faced health challenges that shaped her worldview. These experiences fueled her commitment to authentic representation in fiction, creating characters who reflect the diversity of real life. Initially self-publishing a short story collection, Weltanschauung, in 2016, Patis honed her craft before breaking through with psychological thrillers. Her persistence paid off, landing her a deal with Hodder & Stoughton and representation by Emily Glenister at DHH Literary Agency.
Vikki Patis’s Unforgettable Stories
Patis’s novels are psychological suspense at its finest, blending gothic atmospheres with raw emotional depth. The Diary (2018) follows Lauren, who returns to her hometown for a memorial and uncovers a web of secrets through her late friend’s diary. Readers praised its slow-burn suspense and exploration of bullying and suicide. Return to Blackwater House (2022), a haunting bestseller, tracks Rebecca Bray as she confronts her past in a Cornish village after her stepdaughter vanishes. Its twists and vivid setting earned comparisons to Broadchurch.
Writing as Victoria Hawthorne, Patis also crafts historical suspense. The House at Helygen (2022) and The Darkest Night (2024) showcase her versatility, blending gothic intrigue with historical richness. Her style—marked by multiple perspectives and intricate plots—invites readers to piece together truths like detectives. Themes of trauma, resilience, and identity run through her work, reflecting her advocacy for chronic illness awareness.
Patis’s ability to create diverse characters, including lesbian protagonists and those with disabilities, sets her apart. Her stories don’t shy away from tough topics like abuse and loss, yet they’re accessible, often described as “page-turners” by fans. Whether it’s the chilling Girl, Lost (2020), longlisted for the Not the Booker Prize, or the emotionally charged In the Dark (2021), Patis delivers suspense with heart.
Why Vikki Patis Matters
Vikki Patis is more than a thriller writer; she’s a trailblazer for representation in literature. By infusing her novels with authentic portrayals of chronic illness and diverse identities, she challenges stereotypes and broadens the genre’s scope. Her role as a judge for the inaugural ADCI Literary Prize in 2022, launched by the Society of Authors, underscores her influence in championing inclusive storytelling.
Patis’s impact extends beyond books. Through articles and her blog, The Bandwagon, she raises awareness about living with chronic conditions, inspiring readers and writers alike. Her growing fanbase, drawn to her relatable characters and unpredictable plots, proves that stories rooted in personal truth can resonate universally.
- Born: North London, UK
- Key Works: The Diary, Girl, Lost, Return to Blackwater House, The House at Helygen (as Victoria Hawthorne)
- Notable Role: Judge for the ADCI Literary Prize, 2022
Snag Return to Blackwater House and dive into Vikki Patis’s thrilling world of suspense—you won’t put it down!