Barry Maitland

Barry Maitland, born in 1941 in Greenock, Scotland, is a renowned crime fiction author and former police officer. Before turning to writing, Maitland served in the Royal Navy and then spent 23 years in the Metropolitan Police, retiring as a Detective Inspector. His experiences on the force provided him with invaluable insights into the criminal underworld. Maitland's debut novel, "The Marx Sisters," was published in 1988 and introduced Detective Sergeant David Brock. The series of novels featuring Brock has received critical acclaim for its gritty realism, complex characters, and gripping storylines. Maitland has also written standalone novels that explore different aspects of the crime world, including "Faces in the Crowd," "The Crimson Petal and the White," and "Lightless." His work has garnered numerous awards, including the CWA Silver Dagger and the Crime Writers' Association Dagger in the Library. Maitland's novels are praised for their psychological depth, atmospheric settings, and thought-provoking themes. He has been lauded for his ability to create believable characters and explore the darker aspects of human nature.