Michael Stokes was born in Preston in 1948 and educated at Preston Catholic College and Leeds University. He was called to the Bar in 1971 and after spending 2 years lecturing at Nottingham University, practised at the Bar, became a QC in 1994 and a judge in 2001. In 2007 he was appointed Recorder of Nottingham and retired from the bench in 2016. He is married with 2 children, was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant for Nottinghamshire 2016 and continues his interests in the law as an Honorary Professor at Nottingham Trent University.
Author news
The sequel to 'Blackmail" is well underway and will hopefully be published this year (2017). Look out for it - "A Private and Convenient Place". It tells the story of the trial of Julia Hamilton whom readers of "Blackmail" will remember pleaded not guilty to the kidnapping of Judge Campion's wife and child and the attempt to blackmail him into ordering the release of Michael Doyle and Charlie Benson.
Some reviews of "Blackmail"
'A stunningly good debut novel'
'An unputdownable romp through the intricacies of an armed robbery investigation - a joy to read" -Felicity Gerry QC
'A real find. Can't wait for the sequel.' - Bruce Houlder, QC
'A wonderfully engrossing first novel' -Christopher Goodchild
'Superb. Brilliant plot, careful detail and absorbing characters' - Kindle Customer.
'Sophisticated and beautifully written police/legal thriller.' -Celtic girls
'One of the best books I've read for quite a while.' David avid reader
'Thoroughly enjoyed. Bring on the sequel!' - Andy Best