Mick Herron, the acclaimed author of the Slow Horses series, has seen his fortunes change dramatically.
With over three million books sold and multiple seasons of the TV adaptation, Herron reflects on his journey from failure to success.
Key Takeaways
- After a few initial publishing struggles, Mick Herron had a stroke of fortune that has seen him sell over three million books.
- The "Slow Horses" TV adaptation, featuring Gary Oldman, highlights Herron's unique blend of spy fiction and humor.
- Despite massive success, Herron remains humble, still identifying more with his earlier failures.
Herron’s Early Publishing Struggles and Eventual Breakthrough
Mick Herron’s journey as a writer began with numerous rejections, a far too familiar scenario for many aspiring authors.
His first major series, Slow Horses, about a group of failed spies, initially sold poorly and struggled to find a British publisher for its sequel.
Despite these early setbacks, Herron continued to write, drawing inspiration from his experiences of professional failure.
Turning Point and Sudden Surge in Popularity
It was not until a fortunate series of events, including an award win and strategic publishing decisions, that Herron’s career took a dramatic turn.
The third season of the TV adaptation Slow Horses aired with Gary Oldman portraying the disheveled spy Jackson Lamb, marking a significant success in Herron’s career.
By then, his books had gained a massive audience and been translated into 24 languages, solidifying his international reputation.
His total sales have surpassed three million copies.
Mick Herron’s Personal Reflections
Despite his success, Herron maintains a modest lifestyle, highlighted by his use of a decade-old Nokia phone and his preference for simple living without Wi-Fi.
His recent works continue to explore themes of failure and redemption, reflecting his own professional journey.
Herron’s personal life, particularly his relationship with his partner Jo Howard, remains a grounding force, keeping him connected to his roots despite his literary fame.
Literary Style and Influences
Herron’s writing is often compared to John le Carré’s for its complex plotting, yet it is imbued with a unique sense of humor reminiscent of P.G. Wodehouse.
His latest novel, The Secret Hours, delves into historical misdeeds within MI5 and showcases his flair for blending witty commentary with thrilling spy narratives.
Oldman’s Commitment to Slow Horses
Gary Oldman, who stars as Jackson Lamb in the Slow Horses TV series, expressed his desire to adapt all nine novels by Mick Herron.
Oldman’s commitment to the role is clear, with the series already renewed for a fifth season.
In an interview, he stated, “If this were to be the last thing I do… I’d be happy to do this and do all eight books.”
The Future of Slow Horses on TV
The fourth season of Slow Horses, based on Spook Street, will debut in 2024.
Each season has faithfully adapted Herron’s novels, and fans eagerly anticipate the continuation of the series.
The success of the TV adaptation has not only brought Herron’s work to a broader audience but also shone a spotlight on Oldman’s superb portrayal of Jackson Lamb.
