Author's background and novel setting
Diane Jeffrey, a French teacher living in Lyon, writes detective novels set in England. Her latest thriller, The Crime Writer, is set in her native Devon and revolves around a mysterious disappearance.Plot summary and central mystery
The novel centers on the 2019 disappearance of Leona Walsh, a young woman who went missing after going out for a run during a cold late afternoon. Her husband, Matt Walsh, a crime novelist, reports her disappearance, but his explanations are confusing and contradictory, raising suspicions against him.Discovery of remains and growing suspicion
Five years after Leona’s disappearance, human remains are found in the garden of Matt’s mother’s house, a location he frequently visited. This discovery reinforces the suspicion that he is involved in her disappearance.Connecting the dots through the author's own work
A book Matt wrote, which describes a crime similar to the one he is accused of, further implicates him. This connection between his fiction and the real-life crime adds layers of complexity to the mystery.Investigative journalist's role in the story
Gabriela Conti, an investigative journalist, delves into the case by interviewing police officers, witnesses, and close friends of the victim. She publishes her findings on her blog, offering new perspectives and information to the public.Publication details and availability
Translated from English by Karine Forestier, The Crime Writer is published by Istya & Cie. The book contains 480 pages and is priced at 22.90 €.
