Picture a British storyteller who turned a chilling Facebook notification into a gripping psychological thriller—meet Laura Marshall! Born in Wiltshire and now a Sunday Times bestselling author, Marshall captivated readers with her debut novel, Friend Request, a tale that dives into the dark corners of social media and the haunting mistakes of youth. Her journey from conference producer to thriller maestro is as thrilling as her books!
The Making of Laura Marshall
Laura Marshall grew up in the rolling hills of Wiltshire, England, where her childhood stories often featured knife-wielding intruders—a hint of the crime fiction she’d later embrace. After studying English at the University of Sussex, she spent nearly two decades in conference production. But at 41, with a lifelong dream of writing burning bright, she took a leap. Enrolling in the Curtis Brown Creative writing course in 2015, she beat out over 3,000 applicants, setting the stage for her literary breakthrough.
Under the guidance of psychological thriller expert Erin Kelly, Marshall honed her craft. Her determination and early morning writing sessions—often starting at 5 a.m. to balance work and motherhood—transformed her from an aspiring writer into a published author. This pivot wasn’t just a career change; it was a testament to chasing dreams against the odds.
Laura Marshall’s Unforgettable Stories
Marshall’s debut, Friend Request (2017), is a pulse-pounding psychological thriller that hooked readers worldwide. The story follows Louise, a single mom rattled by a Facebook friend request from Maria Weston, a schoolmate presumed dead for 25 years. With over half a million UK copies sold and translations in 25 languages, it explores guilt, bullying, and the eerie permanence of online connections. Its Kindle No. 1 status and shortlistings for the Bath Novel Award and Lucy Cavendish Fiction Prize cemented Marshall’s arrival.
Her follow-up, Three Little Lies (2018), delves into obsession and buried secrets, centering on Ellen, whose missing friend Sasha hides a dangerous past. The Anniversary (2021) tackles trauma and truth in a town scarred by a mass shooting, while A Good Place to Hide a Body (2024) blends suspense with sharp wit. Marshall’s style—taut pacing, complex characters, and themes of social media’s double-edged sword—makes her thrillers both relatable and unputdownable.
Her ability to craft realistic teenage voices, drawn from her own vivid memories and old diaries, adds depth to her narratives. Inspired by authors like Nicci French and Agatha Christie, Marshall toys with readers through red herrings and twists, keeping them guessing until the final page.
Why Laura Marshall Matters
Laura Marshall’s impact lies in her knack for weaving modern anxieties—social media’s reach, past mistakes haunting the present—into gripping psychological thrillers. Her stories resonate with readers navigating a hyper-connected world, offering both escapist thrills and poignant reflections on human relationships. By mentoring aspiring writers and sharing her journey, she inspires others to pursue creative dreams, proving it’s never too late to start.
Her rise from an unknown to a bestselling author, fueled by perseverance and a transformative writing course, underscores the power of dedication. Marshall’s work not only entertains but also sparks conversations about guilt, friendship, and the digital age’s lasting echoes.
About Laura Marshall
- Born: Wiltshire, England
- Education: English, University of Sussex
- Key Works: Friend Request, Three Little Lies, The Anniversary, A Good Place to Hide a Body
- Awards: Shortlisted for Bath Novel Award and Lucy Cavendish Fiction Prize (2016)
- Fun Fact: She writes at 5 a.m. to juggle motherhood and her career!
Snag Friend Request and dive into Laura Marshall’s thrilling world of secrets and suspense!