Picture a British storyteller who weaves mysteries so gripping you’ll forget to blink—meet Clare Chase! This master of crime fiction has been delighting readers since her 2014 debut, crafting tales that blend suspense, cozy charm, and atmospheric settings. From the cobbled streets of Cambridge to quaint Suffolk villages, Chase’s novels invite you to play detective alongside her unforgettable heroines.
With series like Tara Thorpe and Eve Mallow, she’s carved a niche in mystery thrillers, earning accolades and a loyal fanbase. Ready to uncover the story behind this literary sleuth? Let’s dive into Clare Chase’s world!
The Making of Clare Chase
Born and raised in the Midlands, Clare Chase grew up with a passion for stories, devouring mysteries by Agatha Christie and Ruth Rendell. Her love for literature led her to study English at London University, where she honed her craft. Before becoming a full-time writer, Chase’s career was as varied as her settings—she worked in PR, at the University of Cambridge, and even at Littlehey Prison. These experiences fueled her fascination with human behavior, a thread woven into every novel.
Her writing journey began in earnest with children’s picture books, but crime fiction was her true calling. In 2014, she published her debut, You Think You Know Me, a romantic thriller that set the stage for her signature style. Today, she lives in Cambridge with her family, drawing inspiration from its historic charm.
Clare Chase’s Unforgettable Stories
Clare Chase’s novels are a masterclass in suspense, blending cozy mystery with edge-of-your-seat thrills. Her Tara Thorpe series, starting with Murder on the Marshes (2018), follows a journalist-turned-detective unraveling crimes in Cambridge. Shortlisted for an International Thriller Writers award, it’s a gripping blend of police procedural and psychological drama.
The Eve Mallow series, beginning with Mystery on Hidden Lane (2020), offers a cozier vibe. Eve, an obituary writer and amateur sleuth, solves murders in the idyllic village of Saxford St Peter, often with her dachshund Gus stealing the show. Fans love the vivid settings and Eve’s knack for uncovering secrets. Mystery at Lockley Grange (2024), the 13th installment, dives into a haunted manor’s deadly rivalries.
Chase’s latest venture, the Bella Winter series, launched with The Antique Store Detective (2024). Set in Scarborough, it follows an antique store owner solving crimes with a vintage flair. Her writing shines through rich characters, intricate plots, and settings that feel like characters themselves—think misty fens or eerie old houses. Influenced by JD Robb and Janet Evanovich, Chase crafts stories that are both escapist and deeply human.
Why Clare Chase Matters
Clare Chase has redefined cozy crime by infusing it with modern suspense and relatable heroines. Her ability to balance idyllic settings with dark secrets resonates with readers craving both comfort and thrills. With over 24 books and counting, she’s a prolific voice in British crime fiction, praised for her “unputdownable” plots and “diabolical twists” by reviewers.
Her impact extends beyond bookshelves. By championing strong female sleuths like Tara and Eve, Chase inspires readers to embrace curiosity and resilience. Her stories, published by Bookouture, have garnered a global following, proving that a well-told mystery transcends borders. As she continues to write, Chase’s legacy as a storyteller who makes every reader a detective grows stronger.
About Clare Chase
- Debut novel: You Think You Know Me (2014)
- Key series: Tara Thorpe, Eve Mallow, Bella Winter
- Awards: Shortlisted for Novelicious’s Undiscovered Award and International Thriller Writers award
- Current home: Cambridge, UK
Snag Mystery on Hidden Lane and dive into Clare Chase’s cozy-yet-thrilling world! Whether you’re a seasoned sleuth or a mystery newbie, her stories will keep you guessing until the last page.