Oxford crime writer releases debut thriller set in city

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 24 Oct, 20:32 · Archive

Oxford writer Paul Armstrong has published his debut novel 'The Blackthorn Pact' under the name P.J. Armstrong.

Oxford writer Paul Armstrong has released his debut crime thriller 'The Blackthorn Pact' under the pen name P.J. Armstrong. The novel became available in paperback and on Kindle on October 14, following 25 drafts of the manuscript.

The story follows Arthur Graves, a former Thames Valley detective inspector turned crime novelist, who becomes involved in investigating the mysterious death of a young woman. After she leaves a cryptic five-word note on his lectern and is found dead days later, the police rule it a tragedy. However, Graves, who spends his days in a Jericho bookshop, believes otherwise and pursues the case, leading him into the secrets of one of the oldest and most powerful estates in the county.

Armstrong began writing the novel as a New Year's resolution in January 2025. The book uses Oxford itself as a character, highlighting its colleges, back streets and old families. Armstrong is already working on a sequel titled 'The Cowley Butcher,' which will see Graves investigating a case in East Oxford. He is currently reaching out to Oxfordshire's independent bookshops to promote his work.

How it is being reported

• Oxford crime writer releases debut thriller set in cityOxford writer Paul Armstrong's first novel, 'The Blackthorn Pact,' was published under the name P.J. Armstrong.Oxford Mail · 24 Oct, 20:00
• Oxford crime writer releases debut thriller set in cityOxford writer Paul Armstrong's first novel, 'The Blackthorn Pact,' was published under the name P.J. Armstrong.Oxfordshire Guardian · 24 Oct, 20:00

In this story: Paul Armstrong · Oxford · Thames Valley · Jericho · East Oxford · Oxfordshire

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