Male Character Interview: Harry White in Disappeared by M.G. de Grey

Please help me welcome today’s guest, M.G. de Grey…

Today, I want to welcome Harry white, who played a leading role in bringing down a particularly unpleasant gang of child-traffickers. Readers can find out how this unfolded in Disappeared by M G de Grey. Harry could you please introduce yourself.
I’m Harry White, I’m English, and technically, I’m still a policeman with the Met in London.
English? So how did you get involved with an FBI operation in South America?
I was on leave, staying in Colombia with a friend. He asked me to investigate what was going on in his uncle’s farm, where someone took a shot at him.
Did you feel able to do this? I understand you’re a detective chief inspector. That sounds office-based, more admin than being out in the field.
Mmm … it is, but I certainly haven’t forgotten my detecting skills. Anyway, he’s my friend and I was keen to help.
I’ve already interviewed Antonia Brooks, the journalist involved. How did you meet her?
In a police station in Bogotá, on totally unrelated business. We exchanged a couple of sentences, and I never imagined I’d see her again – and then she resurfaced in the middle of the investigation in Cartagena, clearly pursuing the same group of thugs that I was.
What about the FBI angle? I don’t think that’s an organisation that usually welcomes outsiders when they’re on a case.
Too true. But I was involved in a transatlantic police operation last year with Special Agent David Zhang – which meant he, at least, was prepared to listen to me. And by the time we spoke, Antonia and I had uncovered a lot of facts that fitted into their investigation.
How do you feel about the job you do? It can be difficult.
I’m committed to the pursuit of justice, although sometimes it feels very difficult to achieve that. I’m not well-read like Antonia, but I once heard her quote Shakespeare, something about unmasking falsehood and bringing the truth to light. That about sums it up for me.
Now, I’ve got to ask this question – I see you’re unmarried, so tell me, is there anything romantic between you and Antonia?
She’s a hugely talented and determined journalist, and I have great respect for her. I don’t think there’s anything else I can tell you.
Can’t tell me or won’t tell me?
Ours is a professional relationship. I’m sure she’ll say the same if you interview her.
And a last question. Will you be staying in Colombia now this is over?
That’s undecided. I’m thirty-six now. If I want to make major changes in my career, this is probably the right time, but I haven’t decided yet.
Thank you, Harry. I’m looking forward to reading how you managed to get the better of these disgusting predators.