Jo Allen is a mystery fiction author who was born in Wolverhampton. She has since moved to Edinburgh, a city that she clearly loves and that serves as the backdrop for much of her writing. Allen is a graduate of several universities, holding undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in geography and Earth science. These academic pursuits undoubtedly inform her writing, adding depth and detail to her descriptions of place and setting.
Before turning to fiction, Allen worked in economic consultancy and wrote online articles on travel and Earth science. She has also published works under the name Jennifer Young, in genres including short stories, romance, and romantic suspense. This versatility speaks to her skill as a writer, as she is clearly able to adapt her voice and style to suit a variety of genres and audiences.
In 2017, Allen made the decision to focus on writing the genre that she most enjoys reading: crime. This is perhaps not surprising, as her stories often revolve around intricate puzzles and mysteries that keep readers guessing until the very end. Her DCI Satterthwaite series, set in the English Lakes, has been particularly well-received by fans of the genre. In addition to her love of writing and reading, Allen is also a football fan and a cat lover, making her a relatable and down-to-earth figure in the literary world.