Today I’m delighted to welcome Clare Chase who’s debut novel is out now
Thanks so much for inviting me on to your blog. It’s really great to be here!
You’re very welcome Clare
Can you tell us a little about your latest book?
It’s a murder mystery set in the arts world: lies, passion and intrigue in London and the Lake District.
The story opens on Halloween, when journalist, Anna Morris, meets a stranger at a smart gallery party. She falls for him on sight, but soon finds out he’s given her a false name. Torn between backing off and allowing him to explain, she gets drawn in. Her search for the truth unearths long-buried secrets, and puts her in the path of a ruthless killer with everything to lose.
How did you get into writing?
I’ve loved making up stories since I was a child. I taught myself to touch type as a teenager, so I could get my ideas down more quickly. (I know, I probably didn’t get out enough…!) It took me a while to work out what genre I wanted to write in. I tried children’s picture books and rom coms before settling on mysteries and suspense.
What’s the one piece of advice you’d offer someone that says they want to write a book?
Planning ahead would be my top tip. I know some writers don’t like to plot in advance, but for me it’s the ultimate antidote to getting stuck in the middle. Nothing’s set in stone – I modify my ideas as I go – but having an outline gives me confidence. I’ve created a complicated maze, but I can see the way out! It also means I can write more quickly – and therefore smoothly – since I’ve worked out most of the twists and turns in advance.
Where do you write?
Anywhere and everywhere! I’ve got a small laptop and cart it about with me in a slightly obsessive way. However, if I’ve got an hour or so clear, I either choose our dining room, which is lovely and sunny and overlooks the garden, or this room, which is cosier in winter. (Photo supplied)
Are you writing your next book?
Yes. I’ve got another murder mystery due out in December, set in my home city of Cambridge, and I’m writing a sequel to that. Meanwhile, my publisher’s reading panel are considering a novella that follows on from You Think You Know Me and features the same main characters.
What’s your favourite book of all time?
That’s such a hard question! Despite the fact that my favourite genre is crime, the book I’ve probably re-read the most is the wonderful coming-of-age story, I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith. The observations are so perfect and honest, and it’s also very funny.
You, me and JKR too!
What do you do with yourself when you’re not writing?
I love spending time with my family when they’re around. When I’m on my own I enjoy reading (of course!), drawing, visiting galleries and exploring new places. I’m interested in architecture, so I find cities very appealing. I also work part-time in a fundraising role, which stops me from becoming a total hermit!
Clare Chase writes mysteries and suspense. Her novels are inspired by what makes people tick, and how strong emotions can occasionally turn everyday incidents into the stuff of crime fiction.
Her first novel, You Think You Know Me (Choc Lit), is set in London and the Lake District.
Clare wrote dodgy whodunnits in primary school, read English at London University, and honed her creative writing skills whilst working in PR. She is a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association, and the Crime Writers’ Association.
Amazon link for You Think You Know Me: Here
Website: http://www.clarechase.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ClareChase_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClareChaseAuthor
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