John Nicholl

John Nicholl is a Welsh author known for his gripping psychological thrillers. A former police officer and child protection social worker, Nicholl draws upon his professional background to craft dark, compelling narratives that delve into the minds of both victims and perpetrators of violent crime.

Born in Wales, Nicholl’s career provided firsthand experience of the criminal justice system and the often harrowing realities of abuse and trauma. These experiences heavily influence his writing, lending authenticity and emotional depth to his stories. His career in child protection brought him face-to-face with the darkest aspects of human behaviour—an insight he channels into his novels with chilling precision.

Nicholl came onto the literary scene with his debut novel The Doctor in 2015. The book, praised for its psychological intensity and moral complexity, introduced readers to his trademark style—disturbing, introspective, and emotionally charged. He followed it with a string of bestsellers. His novels often explore themes of justice, guilt, and the long shadows cast by childhood trauma.

Writing in the crime thriller and psychological suspense genres, Nicholl’s work has garnered a wide readership and consistent acclaim for its realism, tight plotting, and unflinching exploration of abuse and manipulation. His books frequently climb the Amazon, Apple and Kobo charts, and have been translated into multiple languages.

Nicholl lives in rural West Wales and writes full-time. Though his books are works of fiction, they reflect his deep concern for victims and his enduring interest in the psychological scars left by crime. His writing is both a creative outlet and a form of advocacy—shining a light on the hidden realities behind closed doors.