Author gets cosy with murder tale
AN author who has been inspired by Alan Bennett and Victoria Wood is releasing his fourth novel, and first crime story.
Charles Heathcote, 27, of Danes Square, Macclesfield, has completed his ‘cosy crime novel’ An Heir to Murder and will launch it on Wednesday, February 12 at an event in the town.
Charles, who works for Age UK in Poynton and Macclesfield, said: “An Heir to Murder is a cosy crime novel and is something I started planning as a teenager.
“I’ve always had an interest in the crime genre, and after a certain amount of time finally came up with the idea for this book.
“Writing is something I’ve always been interested in.
“It started as an inexpensive hobby and grew into an occupation whereby I get to share my work with the world.
“While my stories are somewhat cosy I’m interested in shedding light on under-represented characters.
“I’d say this book is the start of a new cosy crime series in a similar vein to Agatha Raisin.”
Charles, who is secretary the Macclesfield Creative Writing Group, is also the author of the northern comedy series featuring Mrs Doris Copeland, of which there are currently three books: Our Doris, Indisputably Doris and Doris Ahoy.
He said: “They’re told in a similar style to Alan Bennett and Victoria Wood, very reminiscent of classic British comedies. I’ve previously toured the books around North West libraries.”
Charles, who was educated at Puss Bank Primary and Macclesfield Academy before obtaining a degree in creative writing from MMU Cheshire said that his childhood in Macclesfield inspired the world in which the novels are set.
He said: “The language and storytelling are definitely related to the tales and experiences of my nan, Stella Sandywell and her friends.
“The way they would talk and regale each other with stories I found fascinating.”
Charles said he will touring the book around Cheshire libraries after the release, but will launch the book at Button Warehouse, Stanley Street, Macclesfield, at 7pm on Wednesday, February 12, with all welcome.
Macclesfield Creative Writing Group, meets every Thursday from 2pm-4pm at Macclesfield Library.
The group was started by Joy Winkler, who is the former Cheshire Poet Laureate.