About the author

Dead Drift is former Customs and Police Officer A.J.Hill’s debut story in the Jack Lunn and Gemma Bryce crime thriller series set in Hampshire’s New Forest, where he lived for thirty years.

Bloody Butcher is the second in the series, with Gem and Jack dealing with a body dump, cannabis grow houses, feuding oligarch's, missing automatic weapons and a new Detective Superintendent.

The third in the series, is currently in editing and will see Jack and Gem up to their necks in dodgy land deals, a serial killer targeting street sleepers and the gang that controls most of the cocaine trade in the U.K.

An avid reader across the crime genre, reviewer for Shotsmag and regular at crime writing festivals, Andy now lives in West Sussex and works in property.

You can find out more about Andy's books at https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/A.J.-Hill/author/B09Q3FSS5J.

Lesson Summary

Morgen delves into the writing process of crime writer AJ Hill, covering various aspects such as routines, inspiration, and struggles with discipline. Here's a summary of the key points:

• Hill works on multiple projects simultaneously.
• He values feedback from editors.
• Emphasizes the importance of writing for enjoyment rather than financial gain.
• Discusses character development in his writing.
• Details the thought process behind cover design choices for his books.
• Addresses challenges and temptations in the publishing industry, including the pressure to replicate successful works.

The conversation with AJ Hill also sheds light on his journey into writing:

• Highlights his early love for crime and thriller novels.
• Discusses interactions with established authors like Mick Herron and Sarah Hilary.
• Talks about writing standalone novels and series.
• Touches on his interest in historical research and the support he receives from friends knowledgeable in police procedures.
• Mentions his background as a former Customs and Police Officer.

Specific details about his work include:

• Discussion on his crime thriller series featuring characters Jack Lunn and Gemma Bryce.
• Insight into the development of book covers and title choices, with an emphasis on avoiding clichés.
• Brief overview of the first two books in the series, 'Dead Drift' and 'Bloody Butcher'.
• Tease regarding the plot of the upcoming third book in the series.