Andrew J Field resides with his partner Catherine by the sea in Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland. His previous works include Without Rules and All Down The Line. A member of both the Society of Authors and the Crime Writers Association, Field holds an MA in novel writing from the University of Manchester.
A Gritty Tale of Despair and Redemption Set Against a Dark Backdrop
Hit the North is set to publish Andrew J Field’s gripping crime novel, After the Bridge, on Friday, 22nd November 2024. This intense narrative begins and ends on the iconic Humber Bridge and unfolds much of its dark drama in the vibrant yet sinister city of Manchester.
An Unexpected Meeting Leads to Despair and Redemption
The novel introduces two profoundly troubled characters: Owen, a failing actor, and Becky, a traumatised Ukrainian refugee. Their fateful encounter on the Humber Bridge becomes the catalyst for a series of events that sees them deferring their plans to end their lives. Instead, they find themselves ensnared in a web of cynicism, corruption, and criminality after a blackmailer dies unexpectedly in a Manchester hotel. Their journey is one of mutual rescue, as they strive to rediscover their lost humanity amid a backdrop of moral decay.
Andrew J Field, the Berwick-based author, reflects on the novel’s origins: “After the Bridge began as a cheeky grifter noir but evolved significantly following Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine. The conflict has caused widespread death and trauma across Europe, and though we might feel powerless to influence the situation or the narratives surrounding it, the story reflects a broader existential struggle.”
Field further elaborates, “We often believe we control our destinies, but in truth, fate often governs our paths. After the Bridge explores this nihilistic perspective akin to Charles Bukowski’s notion that ‘Pull A String, A Puppet Moves’. The characters Owen and Becky are derailed by unforeseen events, finding themselves at the mercy of forces beyond their control.”
A Hard-Hitting Exploration of Dark Themes
Despite the novel’s exploration of heavy themes such as suicide, sexual assault, attempted date-rape, self-harm, incest, and war crimes, Field asserts that these elements are presented with sensitivity and are never gratuitous. “Crime writing should steer clear of glorifying violence, sexual abuse, and aggression,” he insists.
Critical Acclaim and Editorial Praise
Emma Haughton, acclaimed author of The Dark and The Sanctuary, describes After the Bridge as “dark, twisted, and utterly compelling.” Danuta Reah, known for The Last Room and Not Safe, praises the novel for being “engaging throughout.”
Martin Fletcher, the book’s editor with a notable background working with authors like Harry Thompson and David Gibbins, commends the novel for its “consistently entertaining” nature. He highlights its “lively wit and inventive energy,” noting particularly the portrayal of strong female characters and the sympathetic depiction of flawed individuals.
After the Bridge is available for pre-order on Website and on Amazon. Hit the North, the publisher and blog site launching later this year, is dedicated to celebrating classic and contemporary crime and noir through various media.
