In lane Book Reviews
Exploring J S Savage's Mystery World: Insightful Interview and New Collection
Description
Discover J S Savage's inspirations and insights in this engaging interview, along with the details of his latest mystery collection, *7 Deadly Sins*.
In the world of crime fiction, J S Savage stands out with his unique blend of witty narratives and classic twists. This time, the spotlight shines on him as part of a popular feature where authors delve into their literary influences and latest works. Having released three novels and a new collection of short stories, Savage’s work reflects his deep understanding of mystery and intrigue.
Introducing J S Savage
John Savage is a 39-year-old Northern Irish author known for crafting fair-play mysteries. His two main protagonists embody different aspects of crime-solving: Inspector Graves, a seasoned investigator tackling impossible crimes in 1920s England, and Penny Haylestone, a wise and adventurous woman guiding the younger generation while uncovering mysteries along the way. Savage’s ability to blend humor and intrigue in his narratives resonates well with fans of the genre.
The Inspiration Behind His Writing
When asked about the book that inspired his passion for crime fiction, Savage points to Agatha Christie’s The Mystery of the Blue Train. Although Christie considered it her worst work, Savage found it enthralling while serving with the RAF in Kandahar. "After reading Tender Is the Night, I wanted something lighter and picked it from a shelf,” he recalls. This serendipitous choice led him down the path of both reading and writing mysteries, driven by the thought that he could craft a narrative as engaging as Christie’s.
Proud Achievements and Compositions
Among his body of work, Savage expresses a particular pride in The Mystery of Treefall Manor, his debut novel. "It was my first book, and I wasn’t sure if it would resonate,” he shares. However, he indicates that his second novel, The Riddle of the Ravens, stands out as his finest work to date, showcasing his growth as a writer. Bringing his characters to life on the page, he navigates readers through intricate plots filled with suspense and surprise.
Recommended Reads
For fans of crime fiction, Savage highlights The Black Spectacles by John Dickson Carr as an essential read. He appreciates Carr’s intricate plotting, which deceives the reader while exploring themes of perception, memory, and deception. "It’s a brilliantly constructed narrative," he states, emphasizing how Carr’s skillful storytelling elevates simple plots into complex narratives rife with misdirection.
Enduring Passions Beyond Crime Fiction
When stepping outside the realm of mysteries, Savage admits to being captivated by J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. Surprisingly, he found himself immersed in a world filled with magic and adventure, enjoying it far more than he had anticipated. “It’s one of the few books I’ve read twice," he confesses, alongside works like The ABC Murders and The Murder of Roger Ackroyd.
Spotlight on His Latest Collection
Savage's most recent release is 7 Deadly Sins, a collection of short stories featuring Inspector Graves. Though there are only seven stories, the volume is substantial enough to satisfy readers, presenting multiple impossible crime scenarios, including locked-room mysteries. “I wanted to offer a variety of plots, and I think these stories represent some of my best work," he explains. He particularly enjoyed constructing a fair-play serial killer mystery, a challenging endeavor in such a concise format. Other stories, like The 38 Steps—which features an inverted mystery set in Paris—demonstrate his creativity in diverging from traditional storytelling.
Final Thoughts
As a writer, J S Savage's affection for classic mysteries shines through in every story he tells. Whether readers are seasoned fans of the genre or newcomers intrigued by his characters, his work offers something for everyone. His newest collection, 7 Deadly Sins, serves as the perfect introduction to his style and storytelling prowess.
For those interested in exploring more about J S Savage's works, his bibliography includes:
This engaging interview not only highlights J S Savage's journey as an author but also invites readers to delve into his captivating works full of clever twists and engaging plots.
