Frequently Asked Questions 

 

Which of your books should I start with?

 

I recently ran a poll in my Facebook reader group, FrankFans, and the most popular answer was The Hen Party. It’s a great introduction to the kind of twisty, character-driven thrillers I write.

 

Is there a specific reason why you chose the thriller genre? 

 

Once, I tried to write a romance. It started well… until I realised someone was absolutely going to murder someone else. That was when I knew romance was not my calling! I love writing psychological thrillers. They offer a safe space to explore the darkness that can lurk within people – especially those who claim to love one another.

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Are your characters based on real people? 

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Now that would be telling! Some are a little close to the bone, yes. Most characters are amalgamations of people I’ve known—particularly the villains. Often, my main characters have certain “elements” of me woven in, but they’re not me. Obviously. Otherwise, I’d need a very long time in therapy.

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How do you research and ensure accuracy in your books? 

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Google is my best friend, and my search history could get me arrested. Searches such as:

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What substance can kill without leaving a trace? If someone was pushed off a cliff, would their heart stop before they hit the ground?

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If the internet police ever come knocking, please vouch for me!

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How do you keep readers engaged and on the edge of their seats?

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I write characters I deeply care about, so hopefully you do too. Emotional connection is everything.

 

As I write, I constantly ask 'What if…?'

Those questions create the twists, turns and shocks that my readers love.

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Do you outline your books, or let the story unfold naturally? 

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A bit of both. I start with an idea, then let the characters form and guide the story. I do character-building exercises to hear their voices before they ever appear on the page.

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I often have no idea what the twist or ending will be when I start. So the journey is just as exciting for me as it is for you.

 

Are there any recurring themes in your books? 

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Definitely. My own life experiences have pushed me to explore: Family dynamics, toxic in-law relationships, the mother/daughter bond, friendship betrayals, and the darker side of love. I’m fascinated by the tension between intimacy and danger.

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How do you develop complex and compelling villains?

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I begin by presenting them as ordinary people. Then, piece by piece, I reveal who they really are. I give them their own reasons, their trauma, mental health struggles, and past wounds. If you can identify with a villain on some level, that’s when they become truly unsettling.

 

Will your books ever become movies or TV shows?

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Well,  that’s the dream! Both of my three-book series would make brilliant six-part dramas because each book is split into two sections.

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One reviewer said of Left Hanging: 'This is crying out to be made into a TV drama!'

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So if you know any directors… send them my way!

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Can you make an appearance at my book club?

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Time permitting—yes! In the backs of my books,) you’ll find book club questions to spark great discussions.

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I’m happy to join your club via video link for a short Q&A. But if you live somewhere hot and exotic and want to club together for my airfare… I’ll pack my suitcase!

 

What does your writing day look like?

 

I write in the morning, five days a week:

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• 75 minutes writing, then breakfast

• 75 minutes writing, then a dog walk

• 75 minutes writing, then social media posts

 

Afternoons are for editing, admin, accounting, newsletters and replying to emails.

 

What do you hope readers take away from your psychological thrillers? 

 

To appreciate every moment of happiness and peace because life can turn on a sixpence. The tagline for The Dark Water Series is: You never know what, or who, is around the corner.

 

Mostly, I want my books to grip you, entertain you, and give you a sense of escapism. And when you finally put them down, I want you to think your life is actually pretty wonderful compared to the chaos you’ve just lived through!

 

I’ve read all your books. What other authors do you recommend?

 

This is always so difficult to choose… but here are my top ten recommendations: