Matthew Hall, better known by his pen name M.R. Hall, is a British powerhouse in the realm of suspenseful thrillers, combining his adept skills as both a novelist and a screenwriter to carve out a significant place for himself in the world of storytelling. Born on May 1, 1967, in London, Hall’s upbringing in the bustling city laid the groundwork for what would become a career marked by intriguing plots and compelling narratives that have captivated a global audience.
See all M.R. Hall books in order >>
His educational journey took him from Hereford Cathedral School to Worcester College, Oxford, where he pursued law, a field that would later deeply influence his writing. Hall’s deep dive into the intricacies of the legal system during his time at Oxford provided him with the rich knowledge base that would become a hallmark of his novels, imbuing them with authenticity and a gripping realism.
After being called to the Bar in 1990, Hall’s experiences as a barrister at 5, King’s Bench Walk offered him a front-row seat to the drama and complexities of the legal world. This period was crucial in shaping his narrative voice and honing his storytelling skills, setting the stage for his transition to a full-time writing career in 1995. His dual talents in writing and legal acumen soon found their expression in the creation of engrossing stories that bridge the gap between fiction and the realities of the justice system.
Hall’s debut novel, “The Coroner,” introduced readers to Jenny Cooper, a character whose adventures would anchor his popular series and endear him to fans of the thriller genre. The success of “The Coroner” and its follow-up, “The Disappeared,” solidified Hall’s reputation as a master storyteller, capable of weaving suspense and action in equal measure. His portfolio has since expanded to include eight more books, each further cementing his status as a beloved novelist.
Aside from his writing, Hall’s career as a screenwriter has been marked by accolades, including a BAFTA, highlighting his versatility and skill in crafting narratives that resonate both on the page and on the screen. His knack for creating screen-friendly characters and plots has not gone unnoticed, with talks of adaptations that could bring his work to an even wider audience.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Hall is a man of diverse interests. He co-runs the production company One Eyed Dog with fellow novelist G.F. Newman, indulges in amateur boxing, and, alongside his wife, journalist Patricia Carswell, manages sixteen acres of woodland, dedicating himself to the conservation of the British countryside. This blend of creative and physical pursuits, along with his commitment to environmental stewardship, paints the picture of a man who is not just a writer but a multifaceted individual deeply engaged with the world around him.
As he continues to write and possibly venture into film, M.R. Hall remains a figure to watch in the literary and cinematic landscapes. His journey from a London-born law student to a celebrated author and screenwriter is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the endless pursuit of storytelling excellence.
Jenny Cooper Books in Order of Publication
| The Coroner | (2009) | |
| The Disappeared | (2009) | |
| The Redeemed | (2011) | |
| The Flight | (2012) | |
| The Innocent | (2012) | |
| The Chosen Dead | (2013) | |
| The Burning | (2014) | |
| A Life to Kill / The Last Post | (2016) | |
| Chronological note: The Innocent is a prequel to the series. | ||
M.R. Hall Standalone Novels in Order of Publication
| The Black Art of Killing | (2020) |
M.R. Hall Non-Fiction Books in Order of Publication
| Writing Crime Fiction: An introduction: A 60-Minute Masterclass(With: William Ryan) | (2015) |