Sam Blake, the pseudonym of Irish author Vanessa Fox O’Loughlin, has made a significant mark in the mystery genre with her compelling narratives and strong characters. Born in St. Albans, UK, Blake’s journey in the literary world has been multifaceted and dynamic. Settling in Scotland after marrying Shane O’Loughlin, a member of the Irish Police, she embarked on a career that would see her become not just an author but a significant figure in Ireland’s literary scene.
Initially cutting her teeth in event management, Blake’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Inkwell Writers Workshops. This venture focused on connecting bestselling authors with aspiring writers, a testament to her commitment to fostering new literary talent. However, the 2008 economic crisis in Ireland prompted a strategic pivot, transforming her company into The Inkwell Group, a publishing consultancy dedicated to nurturing up-and-coming authors.
Blake’s breakthrough as an author came with her signing by Bonnier Twenty7 to write a three-book series set in Dublin. This series introduced readers to Cat Connolly, a Garda detective whose narratives weave through the streets of Dublin. Her debut novel, “Little Bones,” released in 2016, quickly became a bestseller in Ireland, setting the pace for her subsequent works. In 2020, she published “Keep Your Eyes on Me” with Corvus Books, a standalone thriller that also earned bestseller status.
Aside from her novels, Blake is known for her involvement in various literary initiatives. She hosts the “Behind the Bestseller” podcast, offering insights into the writing processes of bestselling authors across genres. Furthermore, she organizes the “Murder One International Crime Writing Festival,” cementing her role as a central figure in the crime writing community. Her dedication to the craft extends to serving on the Society of Authors and being a member of the Crime Writers’ Association (CWA).
Blake’s decision to write under the pseudonym Sam Blake was a strategic move, chosen for its simplicity and androgynous nature, which broadens the appeal of her work. Her novels, especially the Cat Connolly series, are known for their intricate plots, strong character development, and vivid portrayal of contemporary Ireland. As an author, Blake continues to captivate her readers with suspenseful storytelling that deftly combines police procedural elements with deep human insights.
Sam Blake ( Vanessa Fox O’Loughlin ) is also the founder and MD of Writing.ie, The Inkwell Group & MURDER ONE, Ireland’s International Crime Writing Festival.
Below you will find all of Sam Blake’s work in chronological order.
Publication Order of Cathy Connolly Books
| Little Bones | (2017) |
| In Deep Water | (2017) |
| No Turning Back | (2018) |
Publication Order of SamBlake Standalone Novels
| Keep Your Eyes On Me | (2020) |
| The Dark Room | (2021) |
| High Pressure | (2021) |
| Remember My Name | (2022) |
| Something Terrible Happened Last Night | (2023) |
| The Mystery of Four | (2023) |
| Three Little Birds | (2024) |