.webp)
Set against the volatile political landscape of early 1990s Sudan, The Sheikh follows MI6 agent Haydon Talbot as he unravels a terror plot tied to Al Qaeda. Drawing on Mellon’s own experiences living and working in Sudan during the early rise of jihadist movements, the novel has been described as “authentic,” “impossible to put down,” and “an illuminating deep dive into the world of espionage.”
“I started my writing journey later than most,” Mellon says. “It wasn’t until lockdown that I finally sat down and put pen to paper, inspired by years of global travel, trade missions, and a long-held dream. I’m a firm believer that it’s never too late to pursue what you love.”
Born in London in 1949 and educated at Eton, Mellon’s life has taken him across continents. He has lived in Ireland, Kenya, Sudan, Somalia, Italy, Spain and Switzerland, witnessing several coups firsthand in Somalia, Sudan, and Greece. His adventurous career saw him become a commercial pilot at just 18, later evolving into work as an oil and gas entrepreneur, film producer, and a 'resource person' during Sudan’s Comprehensive Peace Agreement negotiations.
His first novel, Straw Man, was penned during lockdown in the Bernese Oberland and dedicated to his stepson Oliver, who tragically died of COVID. The Haydon Talbot Trilogy has since secured a three-book publishing deal with Northside House. Publisher Chris Jackson says:
“From the first page, I knew we had something special. Lindsey instinctively understands the shadow world, how secrecy shapes lives. These books stay with you long after you finish the final chapter.”
A regular on BookTok, Mellon has quietly amassed over 100,000 likes, connecting with a younger generation through dry humour, storytelling craft, and reflections on a life less ordinary.
“Everyone who enjoys a good thriller involved in the cut and thrust of world affairs should read this exciting book,” says author Caroline Cass.
“This is the best book on intelligence operations I have ever read. Authenticity all the way,” adds Commander Robert Forsyth RN (Rtd).
Now retired in Oxfordshire, Mellon is already hard at work on book three, The Black Swamp, set amid the oilfields of South Sudan. And if he has his way, this won’t be the last time we see Haydon Talbot – or hear from the man who proves it’s never too late to write the story only you can tell.