Stephen James Delivers a Gripping Historical Crime Novel with Trial by Conscience

Tomah, Wisconsin Feb 6, 2026 (Issuewire.com) - Author Stephen James presents Trial by Conscience, a powerful work of murder and mystery that follows a young mans decade-long pursuit of justice amid the political turmoil of the Irish Troubles. Set against a backdrop of real historical tension, the novel weaves together crime, personal torment, and fractured family relationships in a story driven by suspense and moral complexity.

Spanning multiple locations including Birmingham, Northern Ireland, and London Trial by Conscience traces the emotional and psychological journey of its protagonist as he confronts violence, loss, and the long shadow of political conflict. The novel explores how personal grief collides with broader historical forces, building toward a dramatic and explosive conclusion.

About the Book

Trial by Conscience is a fast-paced, character-driven novel that blends crime fiction with historical drama. As the narrative unfolds over ten years, readers are drawn into a tense exploration of revenge, loyalty, and conscience, set during one of the most turbulent periods in modern British and Irish history. Rich in atmosphere and emotional depth, the story examines how political violence reverberates through families and individuals long after the headlines fade.

About the Author

Stephen James brings authenticity and lived experience to his writing. After careers in catering, business management, and sales, he turned to writing first through poetry for a local magazine, and later through fiction. Having lived in Birmingham for three decades, James experienced firsthand the fear and uncertainty surrounding IRA activity during the height of the Troubles. Now based in Lincolnshire, he is the author of a planned trilogy of novels inspired by this era.

Inspiration Behind the Book

The novel is rooted in personal experience. James witnessed the Birmingham bombings of 1974, having been inside one of the devastated venues just ninety minutes before the explosion that killed 21 people and injured more than 220 others. That moment, and its lasting impact, became the catalyst for a story examining the human cost of political violence.

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Message to Readers

If you are interested in modern history, wartime drama, human relationships or simply a compelling mystery, this book is written for you. Most of all, I hope readers will simply enjoy the journey.

Media & Appearances

Stephen James has appeared in a television interview with Logan Crawford on the Spotlight TV Network.

Author Website

For more information, visit:
 www.stephenjamesauthor.com

Amazon link:  https://www.amazon.com/TRIAL-CONSCIENCE-Stephen-James-ebook/dp/B0F3WJM1WT/ref