Crime writer visits local libraries to launch new book

AN Antrim-based author will visit local libraries in the wake of releasing his latest crime novel.

James Murphy is embarking on a thrilling ‘Catch Me If You Can’ tour across several libraries to celebrate World Book Day.

Fans of his gripping novels won’t want to miss this opportunity to hear James read from his upcoming book ‘How to be Dead’, take part in a Q & A quiz with James, and test their literary knowledge with fun activities like the First Line of the Book Game. There will also be an opportunity to meet James, have a chat over a cuppa, and get books signed on the day.

James will visit Greystone Library on Thursday 6 March from 10:15am – 11am and Crumlin Library on Friday 7 March from 3:00pm – 3:45pm.

There will also be appearances in Rathcoole, Greenisland and Carrickfergus.

James will also be making a special appearance in Moira Library on Saturday 22 March at 2pm, offering another chance to meet the author and uncover the connection between his new book and Moira!

Ahead of his upcoming events, James said: “I’m hugely excited about doing another library tour. The previous events were so well attended, and we had such great fun, I can’t wait to get out there again to connect with readers and share the latest book with them.

“Libraries NI has been huge supporters of my work and I’m so thankful for everyone involved in the tour for their hard work in setting up the events and hosting me. We’re going to have a blast, I look forward to seeing you all.”

This event is free to attend with booking advisable by contacting your preferred participating library.

For more information, visit librariesni.org.uk or follow @LibrariesNI on social media.

In How To Be Dead, James Murphy draws inspiration from music legends Snow Patrol and Ash for the second installment of his acclaimed psychological thriller series featuring investigative psychologist Dr. Carolyn Harkin.

Mr Murphy is originally from west Belfast but now lives in the borough.

Following the success of his Farset Investigations Belfast detective series and Write Me A Murder, the first in a series of psychological thrillers featuring Dr. Carolyn Harkin, author James Murphy has released the second book in the series, How To Be Dead, inspired by Snow Patrol.

The previous book drew inspiration from the Massereene dynasty and was set at Clotworthy House in Antrim Castle Gardens.

James told the Antrim Guardian that he was inspired by the castle grounds when giving a six week crime fiction workshop for the old Antrim Borough Council.

He also became entranced by the story of Lady Marian’s Wolfhound, the heroic canine who saved his mistress from a wolf at the lough shore and then re-appeared to warn the wardens of the castle of an attack, before turning to stone on the highest turret.

The new release comes after Murphy recently signed a five-book deal with Spellbound Books.

“I’ve been thrilled by the reception of Write Me A Murder and am delighted that so many people are eagerly anticipating Dr. Carolyn Harkin’s next adventure,” said James.

“This first book was a departure for me, moving from the police procedural style of Farset Investigations Belfast to the darker, more intense realm of psychological thrillers.

“This release draws inspiration from both the story and the Snow Patrol song it was based on.”

“Writing this novel has been a lot of fun, especially with the direct collaboration with Ash. The band’s works are referenced in the story, and drummer Rick McMurray even contributed to the writing of a namesake character.”

Renowned for his fast-paced, gripping page-turners with compelling premises, Murphy doesn’t shy away from tackling significant societal issues in his works.

“Write Me A Murder addressed toxic masculinity, violence against women and girls, and institutional corruption. When asked if How To Be Dead would tackle similar themes, Murphy said, “I aim to write something that readers of the genre will enjoy. However, like most writers, my work is influenced by the context in which it is written, so there will always be ‘big themes.’

“This book continues to address violence against women and girls, a persistent epidemic despite police and government efforts. I also spotlight institutional corruption and our society’s obsession with true crime, questioning whether it’s healthy.”