Art Marvik and Shaun Strathen: More Than Comrades

Art Marvik is a man who prefers to rely on himself. A former Royal Marine Commando and member of the Special Boat Service, he's accustomed to making decisions, taking risks and dealing with danger. He doesn't readily ask for help, and he certainly doesn't like admitting when he needs it.

But even someone as independent as Marvik needs someone he can trust.

That person is Shaun Strathen.

The two men share a background in the Royal Marines and an understanding of what it means to face danger. They know each other's strengths, weaknesses and capabilities. There's no need for lengthy explanations between them. They have a shared history and a mutual respect that goes beyond their former military service.

Their roles, however, are very different.

Marvik is the man on the ground, confronting the people and situations that threaten others. He's resourceful, physically capable and prepared to put himself in difficult situations. Strathen operates differently. His expertise lies in communications, surveillance and IT. He can analyse information, follow digital trails and provide the intelligence that Marvik needs to pursue an investigation.

One is out there facing the immediate danger. The other is often working behind the scenes, piecing together information and helping Marvik see what might otherwise be missed.

But Strathen isn't simply a voice at the end of a telephone or someone who appears whenever Marvik needs a technical answer.

He's had his own battles. An amputee, he has had to adapt to the physical challenges life has thrown at him. He's determined not to be defined by his injuries, and he certainly doesn't welcome pity. He's physically fit, strong and independent, with a determination that matches Marvik's in its own way.

I think that's important. Strathen isn't there to be looked after. He's a capable man in his own right, with skills and strengths that Marvik doesn't possess.

Their friendship also has its lighter moments. Strathen has a dry sense of humour and a patient, reassuring manner. He can sometimes see through Marvik's stubbornness, and his presence provides a degree of stability when circumstances become difficult.

For Marvik, who finds it hard to depend on other people, that matters.

I enjoy writing the contrast between the two men. Marvik's instinct is to act, to get out there and confront a problem. Strathen is more inclined to sit back, examine the information and work out what it means. Their different approaches complement one another.

Neither man is complete without the other when an investigation demands both sets of skills.

Their relationship is rooted in trust, shared experience and an understanding that neither needs to prove himself to the other. They are former comrades, but their partnership has developed into something more enduring.

And perhaps that's one of the things I find most interesting about writing Art Marvik. For all his independence, he has someone in his corner who knows him well enough to challenge him, support him and, when necessary, remind him that he doesn't have to face everything alone.