The Waverley Gazette

A dog, a pair of ears and a place in the west country...

We asked Jan Ellis, author of just published 'The Bookshop Detective' where she finds ideas for her books. Jan has a new book coming out in May - 'French Kisses and A London Affair', two novellas in one book. Jan has shared her thoughts on why setting is important, and what a writer should use everyday... Writing about what you know is one successful element. And it sounds like a dog is vital.

Q Where do you find inspiration for your books?

A When I began writing fiction, it made sense to use things I was familiar with. My background is in publishing and I still work in the book trade, so it seemed natural for my character Eleanor Mace to own a bookshop. And – like me – she has moved to the West Country from London.

I’ve also picked up some great ideas by eaves-dropping on local conversations. For example, when Eleanor gets a dog in A Summer of Surprises and An Unexpected Affair, she realises that everyone knows the dogs’ names, but not necessarily those of the owners. ‘You know who I mean – Mitzi (long-haired dachshund, yappy). She’s left her husband and taken up with Jaffa (golden retriever, dribbles a bit, but sweet natured).’ That’s exactly the kind of conversation I have dog-walking!

Jan Ellis

https://www.waverley-books.co.uk/store/product/21_rights-available/146_the-bookshop-detective-by-jan-ellis/