Matthew Blake is a London-based author and screenwriter, known for his debut novel, Anna O. Before venturing into fiction writing, he worked as a researcher and speechwriter at the Palace of Westminster. Blake studied English at Durham University and Merton College, Oxford, which provided him with a strong literary foundation. His experience in screenwriting includes collaborations with the BBC, ITV Studios, and various UK independent production companies, contributing to his narrative skills and storytelling techniques.

In Anna O, Blake explores the complexities of the human psyche, drawing from his extensive research into sleep-related crimes and the mysterious condition known as resignation syndrome. The novel delves into themes of consciousness, guilt, and the boundaries of the mind, reflecting Blake’s interest in psychological and medical mysteries. His background in screenwriting is evident in the novel’s cinematic pacing and vivid character development, marking a significant entry into the crime thriller genre.