John Wheatley

John Wheatley writes historical fiction rooted in real places and real history. His Anglesey Collection spans more than a century of the island's past, from the copper mines of Parys Mountain to the trenches of the Western Front, including his most loved novel, The Exile's Daughter, the story of a young Polish exile, a Welsh coastal community, and a war that changes everything.

Born and raised in Middleton near Manchester and educated at Leeds University, John worked as a teacher across the north of England before turning to writing full time. That deep sense of place runs through everything he writes. A further series followed, set in his hometown of Middleton, before his focus shifted to West Yorkshire, where he now lives.

Enoch’s Hammer tackles the story of the Luddites of West Yorkshire, The House of Lady Hall lane is a modern dark romance. His latest works, The Gallery, The Irini House and The Playroom mark an exciting new venture into crime fiction, introducing Detective Nula Ryan who features in all three novels of the trilogy.

"Whatever the story, or the period," says John, "the landscape is always an essential part of my writing. Town or countryside, I love trying to create a sense of place and local identity."

Start with The Anglesey Collection, or explore his full catalogue, and discover a world where place, history, and human lives are always deeply entwined.