The Crime Readers' Association

John KennedyJohn Kennedy

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John Kennedy is a writer of edgy, immersive crime novels with a northern feel. He’s also not afraid to tackle some difficult themes.

John’s DI Will Ashcroft and DC Samira Byrne series focuses on two marginalized characters, forced to the edges by intolerance, coming together to solve difficult and disturbing crimes in a time and place where apathy rules. The first in the series (The Trauma Pool) was shortlisted for the CWA Debut Dagger in 2016, and is published by Sharpe Books (2020). This was followed in April 2021 by The Kill Chain and then in September 2022 by The Blood Promise.

John has a Masters in Creative Writing and lectures English in Northern England. He is currently working on a new series.

John also puts out some occasional exclusive ‘behind the scenes’ materials including videos, interviews, and features – to access, sign up to his free mailing list at the website listed below. He promises not to clutter up your inbox.

Other Awards

Shortlisted for AM Heath’s Criminal Lines 2014

Shortlisted for CWA Debut Dagger 2016

Shortlisted for The Exeter Prize 2017

Longlisted for The Bath Novel Prize 2019

Books by John Kennedy

  • The Trauma Pool The Trauma Pool

    Amazon

  • The Kill Chain The Kill Chain

    Amazon

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