INTERVIEW WITH: PETER BOLAND, AUTHOR OF ‘THE CHARITY SHOP DETECTIVE AGENCY’
Q: What’s your inspiration for the book
I was riding through Southbourne and couldn’t help noticing how many charity shops there were. They’ve become a bit of a national treasure on our high streets. Like little boxes of delights —everyone loves a good rummage through a charity shop. It was a no-brainer for a cosy crime setting.
Q: Three favourite writers that inspire you?
Richard Osman, obviously, Terry Pratchett and Lee Child.
Q: Hardest thing about writing?
Running out of stamina. I used to be a copywriter where you’re expected to hit the ground running every day at nine a.m., but after lunch, my brain has had enough, and I have to take a break. I usually try to get going again at four o’clock.
Q: What’s your favourite thing about this book?
It was fun to write, and I hope that comes across. I’ve written gritty crime thrillers before and the subject matter can sometimes leave you feeling a little down, but writing cosies felt very joyful.
Q: Tell us about the characters (no spoilers!)?
Fiona is the level-headed one. Smart and sensible. Partial Sue, so called because she’s very partial to a cup of tea. Nothing gets past her eagle eyes, especially a bargain.
Daisy is sweet, kind hearted and likes cleaning but don’t be fooled. She can be a bit of a dark horse. Simon Le Bon, not the Simon Le Bon, but Fiona’s scruffy Terrier cross who has hair like the new romantic singer.
Sophie Haverford, their arch rival who runs the Cats Alliance charity shop across the road. She thinks she’s better than everyone else.
Q: Tell us about the setting?
Southbourne is my neighbourhood shopping high street. It’s full of quirky independent shops, cafes, little interesting bars and a lot of charity shops. It reminds me of a north London suburb, except if you head south through its leafy avenues, you come to a cliff top and the sea.
Q: What’s the biggest distraction in your writing day?
The sunshine. I blame my dad for that. He came from the school of though where if it’s sunny, then kids have to be outside, not inside and definitely no TV. Also, if there’s surf, I find it hard to write. When the waves are up, the laptop lid comes down.
Q: What really inspires you?
I come from an advertising background where ‘the idea’ is king. A good idea can really drive and inspire me. When I first thought of setting the book in a charity shop, I couldn’t wait to write it. I was off!
Q: How do you want readers to feel when they’ve finished your book?
Happy and entertained. That’s all I ask.
