Former forensic archaeologist and professor from Warwickshire uses experience to create crime novel

A former forensic archaeologist and professor who lives Warwickshire has used his experience to create his debut crime novel.

John Hunter, who lives in Middle Tysoe, has used his homicide case experience for his novel 'The Winder'.

John is a former Archaeology Professor researching landscape history, and latterly a forensic archaeologist with operational involvement in around one hundred homicide cases worldwide – both themes which underlie the book.

The book is also set in and around Warwickshire.

He is also the author of some dozen academic volumes and one historical novel.

He is also heavily involved in heritage management and local planning.

John said: “My working life falls into three fairly separate parts: as a university academic; as a consultant to police forces, and in providing support to the heritage aspects of ancient churches and cathedrals.

"Each of them has provided a source of intrigue, insight and situational humour.

"Some experiences were just too good and memorable to let go, and the best way to relate them seemed to me, to replay the scenes in a fictional setting.

"‘The Winder’ focuses mostly, but not entirely, on the police aspect while sequels (currently in draft) bring others to the forefront.

"Moreover, in the past, and because of my police work, I have been asked to advise other crime writers. One of them has used me as a character.

"I thought it was time I had a crack myself.”

Here is the synopsis for 'The Winder':

When the chimes stop, the murders start...

The church clock in this unassuming South Midlands village has stopped, and for good reason. The old man who wound it up lay lead in the tower, decapitated.

Dr. Jackson (Jacko), a local historian, becomes drawn into the police enquiry, but not before there are more unexplained deaths, including one at the home of a local MP. Then the vicar vanishes into thin air.

Is there a common thread? Why are the Intelligence Services involved? And why is there hushed talk of cannibalism in the police enquiry?

Growing tensions within the police enquiry make matters worse. Jacko wished he’d never taken the job, especially after an attempt on his life. He knew too much, which is ironic as he had no idea what it was he was supposed to know. Drifting unwittingly into a network of serious crime, can Jacko put together the pieces before the killer strikes again?