Peter Swanson

2.1. Birth and Childhood

Peter Swanson was born on May 26, 1968, in Massachusetts, United States. From an early age, he developed an interest in literature, particularly influenced by the works of British novelist Roald Dahl. This early exposure to Dahl's storytelling, known for its dark humor and unexpected twists, fostered Swanson's own inclination towards writing, leading him to compose poetry during his childhood.

2.2. Education

Swanson pursued higher education with a focus on creative writing. He earned a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in poetry from Emerson College, a private university located in Boston, Massachusetts. His studies in poetry honed his narrative skills and understanding of language, which would later inform his prose.

2.3. Career Beginnings

Swanson's path to becoming a published novelist was a testament to his perseverance. He dedicated approximately ten years to writing fiction before securing representation. His breakthrough came when an agent discovered one of his short stories online. This connection ultimately led to the publication of his debut novel, The Girl With a Clock for a Heart, in 2014. Swanson began writing novels specifically in his thirties, after a compelling idea for a mystery novel sparked his transition from poetry to prose.

3.1. Writing Style and Themes

Swanson's characteristic writing style is deeply rooted in the psychological suspense and crime fiction genres. His novels are known for their intricate, often non-linear plots, which frequently employ multiple perspectives and unreliable narrators to build tension and surprise. Common themes explored in his works include:

• Deception and Betrayal:** Characters often harbor secrets and engage in elaborate schemes, leading to unexpected betrayals.
• Obsession and Fixation:** Many narratives delve into the intense psychological states of characters driven by obsessive desires or revenge.
• Moral Ambiguity:** Swanson frequently blurs the lines between good and evil, presenting characters with complex motivations and challenging reader perceptions.
• The Dark Side of Relationships:** His stories often expose the hidden dangers and destructive potentials within romantic, familial, and platonic relationships.
• Suspense and Atmosphere:** He skillfully crafts a pervasive sense of dread and unease, drawing readers into the psychological turmoil of his characters.

3.2. Major Works

Peter Swanson has published a series of novels and novellas, many of which have become bestsellers and critical favorites. His works are listed chronologically below:

• The Girl with a Clock for a Heart (2014)
• The Kind Worth Killing (2015)
• Her Every Fear (2017)
• All the Beautiful Lies (2018)
• Before She Knew Him (2019)
• Eight Perfect Murders (2020) (also known as Rules for Perfect Murders)
• Every Vow You Break: A Novel (2021)
• Nine Lives: A Novel (2022)
• The Kind Worth Saving (2023) (a sequel to The Kind Worth Killing)
• The Christmas Guest (2023) (novella)
• A Talent for Murder (2024)

3.3. Translations and Localization

Swanson's novels have achieved significant international reach, with many of his works translated into various languages, demonstrating his global appeal. Notable translations include editions in Japanese and Korean.

In Japan, his works have been translated by prominent figures such as Shikō Tanahashi and Natsuko Mutai.

• The Girl with a Clock for a Heart was translated as 時計仕掛けの恋人_{Tokeijikake no Koibito (Clockwork Lover)}^Japanese by Shikō Tanahashi, published by HarperBOOKS in August 2022.
• The Kind Worth Killing was translated as そしてミランダを殺す_{Soshite Miranda o Korosu (And Then Kill Miranda)}^Japanese by Natsuko Mutai, published by Sogen Mystery Bunko in February 2018.
• Her Every Fear became ケイトが恐れるすべて_{Keito ga Osoreu Subete (Everything Kate Fears)}^Japanese by Natsuko Mutai, published by Sogen Mystery Bunko in July 2019.
• All the Beautiful Lies was translated as アリスが語らないことは_{Arisu ga Kataranai Koto wa (What Alice Doesn't Tell)}^Japanese by Natsuko Mutai, published by Sogen Mystery Bunko in January 2022.
• Before She Knew Him was translated as だからダスティンは死んだ_{Dakara Dasutin wa Shinda (That's Why Dustin Died)}^Japanese by Natsuko Mutai, published by Sogen Mystery Bunko in January 2023.
• Eight Perfect Murders was translated as 8つの完璧な殺人_{Yattsu no Kanpeki na Satsujin (Eight Perfect Murders)}^Japanese by Natsuko Mutai, published by Sogen Mystery Bunko in August 2023.

In South Korea, his works have also been localized, with titles such as:

• The Girl with a Clock for a Heart translated as 아낌없이 뺏는 사랑_{Akkimeopsi Ppaetneun Sarang (Love That Takes Without Hesitation)}^Korean.
• The Kind Worth Killing translated as 죽여 마땅한 사람들_{Jugyeo Mattanghan Saramdeul (People Who Deserve to Die)}^Korean.
• Her Every Fear translated as 312호에서는 303호 여자가 보인다_{Sam-il-ihoeseoneun Sam-yeong-samho Yeojaga Boinda (In Room 312, the Woman from Room 303 is Visible)}^Korean.
• Before She Knew Him translated as 그녀는 증인의 얼굴을 하고 있었다_{Geunyeoneun Jeunginui Eolgureul Hago Isseotda (She Had the Face of a Witness)}^Korean.

3.4. Awards and Rankings

Peter Swanson has received several accolades for his contributions to the mystery genre, particularly gaining significant recognition in Japan's prominent mystery novel rankings.

His awards include:

• New England Society Book Award (2016)
• Crime Writers Association, Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Finalist (2015) for The Kind Worth Killing

Swanson's novels have consistently appeared in top positions in major Japanese mystery rankings: