CONRAD JONES
Conrad Jones is the bestselling author of more than 40 dark, gripping thrillers that have captivated readers around the world, with millions of downloads across his catalogue. Renowned for his relentless pacing, emotional intensity, and uncompromising realism, Conrad writes crime, terrorism, psychological thrillers, and horror—stories that explore the darkest corners of human nature and the choices people make under extreme circumstances.
Born in Tarbock Green, Knowsley, and educated in Prescot, Conrad’s journey to becoming a bestselling author began far away from the world of publishing. After leaving school, he worked as a market trader before joining McDonald’s Restaurants in 1989. His career progressed rapidly, and he eventually became a Business Consultant, advising corporate and franchise restaurants across the UK.
In 1993, while managing the Warrington Bridge Street McDonald’s restaurant, Conrad experienced one of the darkest moments of modern British history when two IRA bombs exploded nearby, killing two young boys and injuring many others. The devastating event left a lasting impression and sparked a fascination with criminal psychology, terrorism, and the motivations behind those who commit unimaginable acts. That experience would later influence his writing and become a foundation for his bestselling Soft Target Series, featuring the elite Terrorist Task Force and its relentless leader, John “Tank” Tankersley—a character readers have described as “Reacher on steroids.”
Conrad’s writing career began in 2007 during an extended stay in the United States. After his home was burgled and his livelihood stolen, he found himself stranded on a beach in Clearwater, Florida, with little more than time and a determination to start again. There, he began writing his first novel, Soft Target. That moment marked the beginning of a new career, and he has continued writing ever since.
His acclaimed crime thriller The Child Taker became a major turning point in his career. Inspired by the global disappearance of Madeleine McCann and the devastating impact such crimes have on families, the novel showcased Conrad’s ability to combine hard-hitting crime with powerful emotional storytelling. His work is known for placing ordinary people in extraordinary situations and exploring the psychological aftermath of violence, fear, and survival.
Conrad’s novels exist within a connected universe, allowing readers to discover recurring themes, characters, and storylines while still enjoying each book as a standalone experience. His ability to blend authentic locations, realistic characters, and relentless suspense has earned him a loyal international readership.
A lifelong fan of horror, Conrad credits legendary author James Herbert and his iconic The Rats trilogy—The Rats, The Lair, and Domain—as a major influence on his love of storytelling. That inspiration came full circle with The Nest: New York, a terrifying modern horror thriller combining biological terror, urban survival, and the kind of escalating dread that first drew him to Herbert’s work.
Living by the rugged coast of Trearddur Bay, Anglesey, Conrad continues to write stories that explore fear, resilience, and the darker side of humanity. Whether creating crime investigations, psychological nightmares, or apocalyptic horror, he remains dedicated to one goal: keeping readers turning the pages long into the night.
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