About the Author

Ann Smythe

Ann Smythe is a Bristolian who, in her younger years, worked a variety of jobs, including a stint as a ‘runner’ delivering medical files to hospital wards, a trainee nurse, and a plug-and-lamp switchboard operator for a famous hotel chain. While working at the hotel, she discovered a revolving book rack in the lobby kiosk, leading to a fascination with dark, suspenseful thrillers and a lifelong interest in Stephen King’s work.

Finally honing her skills as a copy editor, she began her journey as a writer in 2020, and Secrets of Lostmor is her debut novel. Now living in North Somerset, she spends her days writing, drinking tea, and pandering to her elderly Jack Russell’s eccentric needs!

“When I first sat down to write, I thought my story would be a dark thriller or psychological suspense. Although I am an eclectic reader, these are the genres I tend to read most and the types of movies I am drawn to. However, a week after I resigned to focus on writing full-time, Covid suddenly hit, and most of the nation was confined to their homes. The tragic daily reminders of our fragility affected me and led me to a change of heart. Secrets of Lostmor is romantic suspense with darker elements, but it is ultimately about overcoming adversity and triumphing over evil.”

“Also, Poldark had just aired for five series! I was inspired by the idea of a modern-day Poldark and wanted to write a sweeping family drama whose characters might not always be perfect but are often brave and wholly relatable to readers.”