Briefly tell us about your new novel Body of Lies.
Body of Lies is the fourth book in my Detective Gemma Woodstock series, and this time Gemma is back living in her hometown of Smithson and on parental leave when a body is stolen from the hospital morgue. No one knew who the dead woman was and why her corpse was stolen. Gemma finds the case impossible to resist and despite some push back from a new hot-shot Detective, throws herself into the investigation which becomes more complicated by the hour!
To the delight of your existing fans Body of Lies features DS Gemma Woodstock, who Chris Hammer calls ‘his favourite Australian detective.’ Can you tell us about a little about Gemma for those new to your books?
It was very nice of Chris to say that seeing as he has several Aussie detectives in his own books! Gemma was introduced to readers in The Dark Lake and when we met her she was young and ambitious but suffering from quite a lot of unresolved trauma from her teenage years and that often made her quite prickly. Readers often describe her as feisty, maddening, endearing – I get the full range of adjectives! She’s a lot of fun to write because she’s very determined, has a strong (albeit slightly wonky) moral compass and a heart of gold.
Did you have to do any special research when writing this novel?
I had to research specific information about hospitals and forensics to ensure the plot was viable and I also spent some time researching police procedures and talking to journalists and people in the health industry.
Crime writers usually fall into two categories – the ‘plotters’ or ‘pantsers’ – do you fit into either of these groups when writing your novels?
I am 100% a pantser. I have tried and failed numerous times to plot my novels but I just can’t do it. I am resigned to the fact that I never know whodunnit until I’m about halfway through writing my book!
We’re thrilled that your first novel featuring Gemma Woodstock, The Dark Lake, is being adapted for TV. Will you get to be involved in the series in some way?
Thank you, yes, it’s very exciting. I have been involved in the process so far and will continue to play a role in the development. I will be part of the writers room and the overall creative direction the screenplay takes.
You are a mum to 3 kids, have a full-time job and write novels in your spare time. Any advice to aspiring writers on how to get things done with such a busy schedule?
Everyone has to find the approach that works for them, but I think carving out time to write is the key. It doesn’t have to be hours at a time but if you really want to write a book you have to write! And reading is important too. For me, reading is like fuel for my writing. It’s so inspiring.
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