John Pilkington

John Pilkington worked in a research laboratory, on a farm, and as a rock guitarist in several bands before realising he wanted to write. After taking a degree in Drama and English, and acting and directing for a touring theatre company, he began his professional writing career with radio plays.

He has since written plays for the theatre and television scripts for the BBC. He is also the author of a series of historical crime novels, and a non-fiction book, A Survival Guide for Writers. Elizabethan Mysteries is his first series for younger readers.

Born in Lancashire, John now lives in Devon with his partner and son.

What genres does John Pilkington write in?

He writes historical crime fiction, a non-fiction guide for writers titled A Survival Guide for Writers, and a younger readers series called Elizabethan Mysteries. He has also written radio plays, stage plays and television scripts.

What themes or settings are common in his fiction?

His fiction often combines historical settings with crime and mystery elements. The Elizabethan Mysteries series is set in the Elizabethan period.

Where is a good place to start reading his work?

If you prefer adult crime fiction, begin with the first book of his historical crime series. For younger readers start with the Elizabethan Mysteries series. For writing craft advice, read A Survival Guide for Writers.

Is there a recommended reading order for his series?

Yes. For best continuity follow each series in publication order: start with the first book of the historical crime series for that storyline and follow the Elizabethan Mysteries series in order for the younger-reader arc.

Has he written in other formats besides novels?

Yes. He began with radio plays and has written plays for the theatre and television scripts for the BBC.