Roshan Pitteea, crime fiction author, is the latest regional professional in the hot seat as we give him just 10 minutes to answer our 10 burning questions.

What does a typical working day for you involve?

My primary role is as a serving police detective investigating child abuse, so every day brings new challenges and no two cases are ever the same - there really isn't a typical day. Around that, I fit in writing whenever I can, usually early mornings, evenings and weekends. It's a busy balancing act, but both careers are driven by a desire to understand people and tell their stories, whether that's through seeking justice or writing fiction.

What makes your company special?

As an independent author, I don't have a large publishing team behind me. That does, however, give me creative control over each book. I can also choose who I work with, whether that be photographers, editors or designers. What sets my work apart is that it's inspired by my 20-odd years’ experience in safeguarding. While the stories are fictional, the emotions, challenges and complexities readers encounter are rooted in reality. My readers often feel like they’re sat in the interview room with the investigation team!

Do you dress up or down for work?

It depends which hat I'm wearing. As a detective, professionalism is important so I’ll often wear a suit. If I’m video-interviewing a child, I wear something more relaxed to help put them at ease. When I'm writing, comfort wins every time - shorts, a baggy t-shirt and maybe a hoody if it’s cold.

What piece of advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Make more time for yourself and live in the moment. It’s great to be driven and to focus on your career but don’t miss out on wonderful creative experiences that are good for the soul. Taking opportunities that feel outside your comfort zone will lead to the most rewarding chapters of your life.

What’s your favourite Yorkshire venue for an event or team away day?

Definitely The Piece Hall in Halifax. It's one of Yorkshire's most iconic venues and manages to combine history, culture and a real sense of community. Whether you're attending a business event, a live performance or simply meeting people over coffee, it's an inspiring place to spend time - I saw Garbage there recently and they were fantastic!

How do you prefer to travel for business?

Work (policing and writing) often takes me all over West Yorkshire. I find driving really relaxing, especially at dawn. It gives me time to listen to music, organise my day or work through my plot issues. Some of my best ideas have arrived watching the sun rise over Bradford.

What’s your favourite place in Yorkshire to relax?

I love a long walk from Saltaire back home to Keighley along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal. After spending so much time dealing with complex situations through work and writing, there's nothing quite like downing devices and strolling down the towpath. There’s something about being close to water that helps clear my head and reminds me to slow down.

Where is your favourite place to eat in Yorkshire, and what dish do you recommend?

Thai Basil in Skipton. It has a wonderfully authentic menu and the staff never judge me when I ask for extra chillies.

What do you miss most about Yorkshire when you’re away?

It has to be the people - Yorkshire has a refreshing honesty and warmth that's difficult to find elsewhere. Add in the incredible countryside and brilliant independent businesses, and it's always good to come home. That said, I also find a sort of beauty in the urban decay I see in places like Bradford and Leeds; I do my best to capture it in my writing, letting that Northern Noir spirit shine through.

Do you have any business rules that you swear by?

I’m a big believer that integrity always comes first. Whether it's policing, writing or working with readers and publishing partners, I believe in being honest, being fair and treating people with respect - building trust takes years but can be lost in moments.



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