In one of only 2 UK tour dates, Jo Nesbo’s visit to The Biscuit Factory to talk about his new crime thriller Blood Ties last Tuesday was cozy and conversational - a real pleasant evening and an outright treat.

Fans attending were able to glean insights into the Norwegian’s writing process which, in the case of his first novel The Bat, involves shutting yourself in an Australian hotel room for five weeks and leaving the desk only to wolf down the local cuisine. He makes it sound easy. Nesbo also spoke about growing up in Molde, Norway, and delved into some of the inspirations for his brilliantly warped characters, including the local sherif and childhood bogeyman that inspired his obsessive protagonist, Harry Hole.

I wasn’t expecting a ranting maniac, but Nesbo was surprisingly funny and charming for a man who specialises in the violent, disturbing, and emotionally exhausting world of crime novels. Questions from the crowd felt like chatter between friends, and when the burning questions of “What’s next for Harry Hole?” were out of the way, attendees could have their complementary books signed. I admittedly didn’t have a book for the author to sign, but after this evening, consider me a Jo Nesbo fan.

The Biscuit Factory opens its doors to literary talent once again on November 7th. Come along to hear Newcastle’s own Eliza Clarke talk about her new short-story collection She’s always hungry. The bar will be open.