Why I write the way I do
I’m Russell Davidson—retired Army veteran and former criminal investigator—and I write mystery and crime thrillers because I’m fascinated by what people do under pressure. In investigations, the most important details are rarely the loudest ones. They’re the small inconsistencies, the missing minutes, the statement that almost fits.
What real investigations taught me about suspense
- Motives are messy. People don’t always act logically, but they almost always act consistently with what they fear or want.
- Time is evidence. A timeline isn’t background—it’s the spine of the case. When the clock matters, every decision tightens the story.
- Truth comes in fragments. Witnesses remember pieces. Documents fill gaps. A single overlooked fact can change everything.
- Pressure reveals character. The best suspense isn’t just “who did it?”—it’s “what will it cost to find out?”
Inside Richmond in Red: stakes that don’t let go
Richmond in Red follows Detective Jack Stephens as a killer escalates—and the danger turns personal. I wanted the investigation to feel grounded: leads that dead-end, breakthroughs that arrive too late, and choices that carry consequences beyond the case file.
If you love psychological tension, tight pacing, and mysteries where every clue matters, Jack’s story was written for you.
Three quick ways to read a thriller like an investigator
- Track the timeline. Note when key events happen—and who benefits from the gaps.
- Listen for what’s missing. Characters often reveal more by what they avoid than what they say.
- Watch the “too neat” clue. If something feels perfectly placed, ask who wanted it found.
Stay in touch
I’ll be using this blog to share behind-the-scenes notes, reading recommendations, and updates on new releases and events. If you’d like to reach out about interviews, signings, or reader questions, head over to the Contact page.