Meet the Author: Lesley Pearse - and apply for copy of her latest book Without a Trace.

[RachelMumsnet]

This month we're introducing bookclubbers to author Lesley Pearse. Lesley's latest book Without a Trace is an epic post-war tale of love and hearbreak. If you fancy reading, apply for one of 50 free copies. Furthermore all those who review the book or join the discussion about the book on this thread before 30 September will be entered into a prize draw to win a fabulous Breville Pick & Mix Stand & Hand Mixer with accessories worth over £300.

Find out more about the giveaway and Lesley's novels here.Meanwhile we caught up with Lesley and asked her a few questions about her own reading habits:

Q&A with Lesley Pearse

What are you reading now?
LP: A.N. Wilson's The Victorians. You might think this boring but it's enthralling.

What is the last book you bought someone as a gift?
LP: Cold Comfort Farm by Stella Gibbons. I'm always buying it as a present because it is a very funny book written in the 30s about Country life. An absolute hoot.

Is research a big part of your writing process?
LP: Absolutely. I love history so reading about is a pleasure, but I also like to go to places I'm writing about to get the feel of it.

What's your favourite of your novels to date?
LP: It used to be Never Look Back. But now I think its Belle

Do you have any peculiar writing rituals or habits?
LP: Not really, lots of cups of tea, breaks to clean out the knife box or dead head the roses. Any excuse not to write but have a break.

What advice would you offer to aspiring writers?
LP: Stick at it. So many people start writing and at the first bit of criticism give up. If you want something badly enough you can have it. That is if you practise hard.

I also enjoyed it, the characters were believable and the story developed quickly. I sped through it really quickly too. I will definitely read more by Lesley Pearse.

Thank you for the free copy - lovely to win something.

I really enjoyed this book, so glad I won a copy. It had a bit of everything- romance, suspense and a great heroine. I agree with the other point about George to an extent but I suppose the way the story unfolded, he was a constant background figure, waiting for his chance.
I guessed how it would end right from the outset but there were enough twists and turns to keep me interested.
I haven't read a Lesley Pearse book before but I would definitely read more.

I was fortunate enough to receive this book in an online giveaway. It is my first book by Lesley Pearse.
Set around the coronation in 1953, the central character is Molly, who turns detective in order to solve the death of her friend, and find her friend’s missing daughter.
There is a range of character types, some likeable and some downright unpleasant, but all well portrayed and interesting.
The author manages to create authentic background and atmosphere of the times and the story develops into an intricate and engrossing plot with an unexpected twist along the way. I look forward to reading more from this author.