Heather’s Bookshelf: Author Interview with Ann Smythe
Book Title: Secrets of Lostmor
Released: 05/20/25
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Interview by Heather L. Barksdale
What inspired you to write “Secrets of Lostmor”?
Smythe: My inspiration for Secrets of Lostmor is my love of Cornwall, particularly its windswept moors and rugged coastline. I wanted to create a haunting setting in an abandoned gothic mansion that feels like a character in its own right. I also have a personal fascination with what happens when people’s paths cross in unexpected ways and how those chance encounters can lead to dramatic and far-reaching consequences.
How did you come up with the names of your main characters?
Smythe: For most of my characters, I chose names which I felt suited their personalities. Several house names reflect a theme. Edhen Cottage is occupied by Joe, who is an aviculturist. Edhen being the Cornish word for bird.
Is there anything that you want readers to know about you, your writing process, or your book?
Smythe: I don't have a set writing process. I carry the characters in my head for weeks before ever putting pen to paper. I like to get to know them and take time to consider how the storyline I'm exploring may impact them.
If "Secrets of Lostmor" was adapted into a movie, who would you like to see cast to play your lead characters?
Smythe: I admit, I’ve definitely imagined this! For Lily, I’d cast Lily James; her performance in The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society really stayed with me. Marcus would be James Norton for his ability to portray complex characters. I’d love Imelda Staunton as Dr Janet Morgan, bringing warmth to the role. And for the villain, Luke, I was totally inspired by a character played by Ben Foster in the 2005 movie Hostage.
When you encounter writer’s block, what do you do to break yourself out of it?
Smythe: If I encounter writer's block, which fortunately isn't that often, it's usually due to tiredness causing brain fog. When this happens, I take a short break and return to it the next day.
Are there any tips that you would like to share with other aspiring authors?
Smythe: Ask yourself what you would write if you had limitless time and felt no pressure to write under a specific genre or for a certain audience. Allow yourself to write freely, explore new ideas, even the ones that feel a bit daunting or darker than you’d usually go for. Sometimes those are where the most interesting stories come from.
What is your favorite book, genre, and/or author?
Smythe: I like thrillers and psychological suspense. As a child, I adored Enid Blyton books, especially The Enchanted Wood. A little older, I was obsessed with animal stories by Joyce Stranger. Her brave characters always faced a quest for survival. Into my twenties and beyond, Stephen King. His earlier works left a lasting impression on me. It's really hard to pick one favourite book. It's like being asked what your favourite movie is! Your choices and tastes change as you go through life. A standout read for me was Duncton Wood by William Horwood. The concept of this book sounds daft. It's about moles. But that is actually not relevant. It is an absolutely epic story set in a richly landscaped world full of history and customs. At its heart is a brave love story that is challenged by war and the hardships of life. It made me laugh. It made me cry.
What are you working on next?
Smythe: Having recently finished Murder in Lostmor, the sequel to Secrets of Lostmor, I have decided to take my own advice and write something slightly darker. The working title is 'Killing Me'
Want to Learn More About the Author and Secrets of Lostmor?
https://www.facebook.com/ann.smythe.961
https://twitter.com/AnnBSmythe
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/231891515-secrets-of-lostmor
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