Richard Hooton, a former journalist for the Oldham Chronicle, is set to make his literary debut with his crime novel The Margaret Code, due for release on April 10, 2025. The book will be available in hardback, eBook, and audiobook formats, with the paperback edition to follow in January 2026.
Hooton, who currently serves as a senior communications officer for Tameside Council, worked as a reporter and news editor at the Oldham Chronicle from 2006 to 2017. During his time as a journalist, Hooton honed his writing skills, which he later applied to his passion for creative writing. The Margaret Code, a gripping voice-led whodunnit, is inspired by Hooton’s personal experiences, particularly his relationship with his late grandmother, who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease.
The novel centers on 89-year-old Margaret, whose deteriorating memory holds the key to solving a murder in her neighborhood. Convinced that her best friend and neighbor, Barbara, entrusted her with a secret before her death, Margaret embarks on a mission to uncover the truth, aided by her grandson, James. As the investigation progresses, Margaret begins to suspect that someone is trying to manipulate her as her mental health declines.
The Margaret Code will be published in the UK by Sphere, an imprint of Little, Brown, with additional releases in the United States by Union Square & Co. and in Germany by DTV. The audiobook will be narrated by BAFTA-nominated actress Maggie Ollerenshaw, known for her roles in Open All Hours, Last of the Summer Wine, and Coronation Street.
Hooton’s journey to publication was fueled by years of dedication to the craft of writing. After studying English Literature at the University of Wolverhampton, Hooton joined two writing groups and began entering short story competitions to refine his skills. His efforts paid off as he won numerous awards, including the Hammond House Publishing International Literary Prize and the Evesham Festival of Words Short Story Competition, and earned a shortlist spot for the prestigious Bridport Prize.
Described as a “compulsive and charming” crime novel, The Margaret Code has been compared to Elizabeth Is Missing and The Marlow Murder Club. Sphere Editorial Director Rosanna praised the novel for its “superbly twisty plot” and Margaret’s compelling character, calling her a “witty, warm, perspicacious, and heartbreakingly vulnerable” narrator.
Hooton expressed his excitement about the upcoming release, saying, “It’s a dream come true to have my novel published after many years of hard work to create it. I’d like to thank everyone who has supported me along the way, in particular my agent Sam Copeland and editor Rosanna Forte, whose expertise and enthusiasm has been exceptional.”
The Margaret Code is now available for pre-order through Amazon and major bookstores.
