Stephen Puleston

Stephen Puleston is a published author specializing in mystery and thriller novels, with a focus on police procedural detective series. His debut novel, "Brass in Pocket," introduced Inspector Drake, a detective based in North Wales, followed by subsequent titles including "Worse Than Dead" and "Against the Tide." Puleston also created the Inspector John Marco series, set in Cardiff, beginning with "Speechless." In June 2025, he will launch a third series featuring Inspector Caren Waits, further expanding his body of work.

Born and raised on the Isle of Anglesey in North Wales, Puleston studied theology before training as a lawyer. His legal career, which included criminal defense and divorce cases, provided him with firsthand experience that informs the authenticity of his crime fiction. Now residing in North Wales, he draws inspiration from the region's landscapes and culture, particularly for his Inspector Drake series. Puleston's writing blends meticulous procedural detail with compelling narratives, establishing him as a notable voice in British crime fiction.
Detective Inspector Caren Waits Books
# Title Year
1 The Paxton's Tower Murders 2025
2 The Tenby Harbour Murders 2025
3 The Swansea Marina Murders 2025
Inspector Drake Books
# Title Year
1 Brass in Pocket / Songs for the Dead 2013
2 Worse Than Dead 2014
3 Against the Tide 2014
4 Devil's Kitchen 2016
5 Dead on Your Feet 2017
6 A Time to Kill 2018
7 Written in Blood 2018
8 Nowhere To Hide 2019
9 A Cold Dark Heart 2020
10 Dead and Gone 2022
11 Time to Die 2023
12 Stone Cold Dead 2023
13 Looking Good Dead 2024
Inspector Marco Books
# Title Year
1 The Cardiff Stadium Murder / Dead Smart 2013
2 Speechless / The Cardiff Bay Murders 2013
3 The Cardiff City Murders / Another Good Killing 2024
4 The Roath Park Murders / Somebody Told Me 2024
5 The Cardiff Lockdown Murders / Time Like These 2024
6 The Cardiff Winter Murders / Dead of Night.. 2024
Stephen Puleston Anthologies
# Title Year
1 Crime After Crime 2012