Martin Stewart

Martin Stewart is a British author best known for his work in young adult and middle-grade fiction. His debut novel, Riverkeep (2016), was widely acclaimed for its compelling narrative and supernatural elements. Stewart's most recent work, Double Proof (2024), marks his debut in adult crime fiction and has already been shortlisted for the Bloody Scotland Debut Prize.

Born and raised in Scotland, Stewart discovered his love of writing at an early age, writing his first story on Post-it notes at the age of eight. He later studied at university and began a career as an English teacher, leading him to creative writing. "I found the joy of writing for younger readers in the classroom," he reflected in an interview. His early work with children inspired his middle-grade debut, the Bridget Vanderpuff series, published by Zephyr.

Before fully committing to writing, Stewart held different jobs, from bartender to recycling technician to golf caddy. His time as a lecturer in creative writing set him on the path to becoming a full-time writer. His breakthrough came with Riverkeep (2016), a young adult novel bought by Penguin on the strength of its first four pages. The narrative follows sixteen-year-old Wulliam as he navigates a mystical world to save his father from a dark possession.

Stewart's writing continued to evolve, and in 2024 debuted in adult crime fiction with Double Proof, a novel that blends crime, the supernatural and suspense. A story that spans two timelines, it follows disgraced reporter Robbie Gould as he investigates a missing persons case and a whisky collection theft.

Photo credit to the author.