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Crime Writer Trades Murder for Melodies
29 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Acclaimed author Peter May has retired from crime writing.
- He is releasing his first music album on December 4.
- A fall at an airport prompted his career shift.

Renowned crime novelist Peter May, celebrated for his bestselling thrillers, has announced his retirement from book writing to focus on his burgeoning music career. His first album, "Towards the Light," is set for release on December 4 and delves into personal themes of grief and family struggles.
The decision to pivot from prose to melodies was significantly influenced by a startling personal incident at an airport, where a fall led to a confrontation with armed guards. This event prompted May to reassess the relentless demands of promoting his books globally and dedicate more time to his long-held musical ambitions.
May’s musical journey began in his youth, forming bands and performing, but writing and promoting books took precedence for decades. Now, having built a home studio, he is releasing music that he finds even more emotionally impactful than his novels, offering a deeply personal artistic expression.