Jørn Lier Horst, born in 1970, is a prolific Norwegian author primarily recognized for his contributions to crime fiction. Before embarking on his writing career, he served as a Senior Investigating Officer within the Vestfold police district, a background that informs his fictional narratives. His work has achieved significant international acclaim, with books translated into over 40 languages and selling more than ten million copies globally. Horst's debut was in 2004 with 'Key Witness,' reportedly inspired by a real murder case. He is the creator of the detective character William Wisting, whose stories have also been adapted into a television series. In addition to his solo work, Horst collaborates with Thomas Enger on a thriller series featuring Alexander Blix and Emma Ramm. His literary output also extends to children's literature, including the 'Clue' series and books about Detective Agency No. 2. Horst's personal life includes his marriage to Beate Horst, after whom he named his surname, and they reside in Stavern with their two children.

Jørn Lier Horst's literary career is deeply rooted in his professional experience as a former Senior Investigating Officer. This background provides a foundation of authenticity for his crime fiction. His most recognized creation is the detective William Wisting, whose cases have garnered a significant readership and led to a television adaptation. Horst's debut novel, 'Key Witness' (2004), was based on an actual murder investigation, signaling his early inclination to blend reality with fiction. Beyond the Wisting series, he has co-authored the Blix/Ramm thriller series with Thomas Enger, demonstrating his versatility in crafting suspenseful narratives with different character dynamics. His novels have achieved considerable international success, evidenced by translations into numerous languages and multi-million copy sales, establishing him as a notable figure in global crime fiction.

In addition to his adult crime novels, Jørn Lier Horst has a notable body of work in children's literature. He is the author of the 'Clue' series and the 'Detective Agency No. 2' series, which have been popular with younger readers. These children's books have also seen adaptations into other media. The 'Clue' series was the basis for the film 'CLUE: The Maltese Mystery,' which received a nomination for Best Children's Film. Furthermore, some of the 'Detective Agency No. 2' books were adapted into films, and a stage play based on the series premiered in 2021. Horst's involvement extends to documentary production, including 'The Marianne Mystery,' and he has written family plays for various theaters, showcasing a broad engagement with storytelling across different genres and age groups.

Jørn Lier Horst maintains a visible public profile beyond his writing. His expertise in crime often leads him to serve as an expert commentator for media outlets like VG and on TV2 Norway's 'Crimewatch.' His engagement with the public extends to appearances on reality television, including the celebrity version of 'The Traitors' and 'Masked Singer Norway,' where he participated in disguise. He is also associated with the production company Novemberfilm. Horst's work has been widely recognized through numerous awards and honors, including shortlistings for prestigious prizes like the Riverton Prize and the CWA International Dagger, as well as winning awards such as the Norwegian Booksellers' Prize and the Glass Key award, underscoring his significant impact on the literary landscape.