Harry Giller is the pseudonym of a retired police inspector who has now turned his hand to writing crime novels. Born in Hull, he is now a long-time resident of Cottingham in East Yorkshire (reputedly the largest village in the country)
How I spend my days
Over the past couple of years most of my time has been spent writing books. I greatly enjoy the creative side of writing, some of which is based on my experiences as a Police Officer - but only some! I pity my poor wife as I sit typing at the kitchen table on my aged laptop asking her to research facts for me and even suggest character names. Friends and family beware! At the moment I am heavily engaged in publicising my second book Evil Knows No Bounds, and as a result of my writing I now give talks to various groups about my journey from police officer to author.
Friday nights - cocktails or chill?
Friday night is definitely our night for going out, either with friends or as a couple. Our current favourite place is Raph's Lounge in Cottingham where they serve a mixture of Greek and Italian food, all freshly cooked. It is excellent value and a place to relax and enjoy conversation.
Saturday morning - parkrun or papers?
Definitely not parkrun, I'm afraid those days are long behind me if they ever existed. However, I do like to walk around the village in an effort to stay mobile and to keep my weight under control. I still have a great interest in all sport which takes up much of my Saturday, both watching and devouring the papers for the sports news.
Feeding time?
An unashamed carnivore, I am just as happy eating salads, pasta and anything Greek. My wife and I regularly eat out at local pubs and restaurants, of which there are many in our area. One of the best meals I can remember having was at the Bruce Arms in Masham when we went to their Steak Night.
Retail therapy
I must confess that, like most men, I only shop when necessary and only then for specific items. I like to visit the shops in nearby Beverley and enjoy occasional trips to York, as much for the places themselves as the shops.
Saturday night perfection?
We are home birds most of the time but, with a large family, we will often meet up together, usually at our granddaughter's house on the extensive rear deck area, which I built, for food and silly games. These often take place on special occasions such as the recent Euros, where I won the sweepstake when Spain beat England. I was a bit torn whether to cheer for England or Spain, but £15 is worth having.
Sunday relaxation?
Definitely a day for staying at home, except of course when one of the grandchildren has a match for me to watch. A day for gardening, not my favourite task, and for reading the paper from front to back. My main job being to wait patiently for my Sunday roast, not in the least bit disappointed that all my offers of help have been declined.
Hopes for the year ahead?
I do have ideas for another novel, something I haven't dared to mention to my wife yet. However, I have to carry on with publicising my current novel, not to mention the first False Witness, in an attempt to maximise sales. I hope both books will be successes, but I am not expecting to become rich. Having said that, if the BBC or Hollywood come calling I probably won't turn them away.
Harry's first book, False Witness, is available on Amazon whilst the second, Evil Knows No Bounds, as well as Amazon is also available from other retailers including the publisher at troubador.co.uk /bookshop
