David Hewson Biography

David Hewson is a contemporary novelist celebrated for his intricate crime fiction works that weave fascinating tales from very realistic and often historically-rich settings. Though British by birth, he draws significant inspiration from foreign locales, most notably Italy and Amsterdam, that vividly come to life in the pages of his books.

Early Life

Born in Yorkshire, England, in 1953, Hewson’s earliest encounters with literary ambition manifested in his deep-rooted love for stories, evident from a young age. However, it wasn’t until his transition from a successful career in journalism to full-time writing that his true gift began to shine. The transition, while certainly risky, bore fruit as David Hewson evolved into one of the most admired names in crime fiction.

Journalistic Career

Hewson began his journalistic career at the Yorkshire Post, Leeds, in the mid-1970s. Later, he moved to The Times, London, followed by The Independent, and The Sunday Times, gradually climbing journalistic ranks. These experiences fortified his instinct for details, plot development, and subsequently character creation. Hewson eventually left journalism to embrace novel writing as his predominant career.

David Hewson’s First Novel

His debut novel, “Semana Santa,” published in 1996, set the tone for the range of work to come. Though it was a standalone novel, the book signified Hewson’s affinity for European cultures and settings, being based in Seville, Spain, around the Easter festival. It was later adapted into a movie titled “The Holy Week,” enhancing Hewson’s reputation as an evocative storyteller capable of translating the written word into powerful visual cinematic narratives.

Costa Creation

In 2002, Hewson introduced readers to his regular protagonist, Italian detective Nic Costa, in the book “A Season for the Dead.” Here marked the beginning of the Nic Costa series, set in Rome, Italy, that grew to encompass ten novels published over eight years.

The series was celebrated for its vivid depiction of Rome, yet it was the expanding character development throughout the books that truly won readers’ hearts. His meticulous attention to cultural details demonstrated his deep appreciation of Italy’s rich history, contributing significantly to the series’ acclaim both in the UK and internationally.

Pieter Vos

Hewson’s extensive body of work also includes adaptations of Danish TV series “The Killing,” a trilogy based on audio book productions, and more recently, his ‘Pieter Vos’ series based in Amsterdam. A prolific writer, Hewson has always been noted for introducing diverse settings and complex characters, compelling his readers to delve into the narrative.

David Hewson: Awards and Accolades

Hewson received significant recognition for his novel “The Sacred Cut,” part of the Nic Costa series. The Crime Writers’ Association (CWA) shortlisted the book for its prestigious Duncan Lawrie Dagger, the highest honour in British crime writing. His thriller “Devil’s Fjord” won the Audible Sounds of Crime Award at Crimefest 2020. Other awards include the Sherlock Award for the best detective created by a UK author, for his portrayal of Nic Costa.

Writing: A User Manual

David Hewson is not just a writer but also a dedicated mentor. He is passionate about sharing his wealth of knowledge and helping prospective writers realize their potential. His book “Writing: A User Manual,” is a helpful guide for aspiring novelists. A compelling presenter and teacher, Hewson frequently conducts workshops and webinars to share his insights on plotting, characters, and the entire writing process.

In a career spanning over two decades, David Hewson’s work has been translated into more than twenty languages, reflecting his appeal across varied cultures and geographical boundaries. Hewson continues to write, with his recent works displaying the same riveting suspense, complex characters, and immersive narratives that readers around the world love him for.

His contribution to the world of crime fiction has not just entertained millions but also significantly elevated this genre’s literary stature. With every new book, Hewson continues to redefine modern crime writing, maintaining his esteemed position in contemporary literature. His rich body of work stands testament to his exceptional storytelling skills and insightful perspective on human nature and society.