Robert Crouch

I write murder mysteries about ordinary people pushed too far.

Why does one person walk away from an argument while another lets anger take over? Why does someone keep a secret when telling the truth would be easier? Why do good people sometimes make bad choices?

That curiosity lies at the heart of the Downland Murder Mysteries, which feature Kent Fisher. Like me, he’s an environmental health officer who has a habit of finding himself involved in murder.

An ordinary man, determined to see justice done, Kent is accompanied by his faithful West Highland White Terrier, Columbo. Beneath the humour and everyday rhythms of village life, lie secrets waiting to be uncovered.

People are endlessly fascinating, surprising, and unpredictable, especially when life isn't kind to them. That shapes the way I write crime. Murder may be the mystery, but it's the people who make the story.

Away from writing, I love to explore the South Downs, camera in hand, looking for somewhere to hide a body among the peaceful hills and villages that have inspired the settings for my books.

Robert Crouch