Hyland’s House aka Essex Hall
Let’s Explore Essex
I want to share a little insider scoop about the places in Essex that inspire the settings in my Chloe Essex Cozy Mysteries.
Chelmsford
Have you ever heard of Chelmsford? It’s actually known as the birthplace of radio—pretty cool, right? The city and surrounding countryside played a big role in sparking my imagination for the stories. Picture strolling through the outskirts and glimpsing Hyland’s House. This historic building inspired Chloe’s family home, Essex Hall.
Brentwood
Now, let’s hop over to Brentwood, a charming town that some of you might know from the reality TV show ‘The Only Way is Essex’ (TOWIE). It’s got its fair share of glitz, glamour, and that signature fake tan vibe. My cozy mystery titles, like ‘The Only Way is Murder,’ (TOWIM) play on that show, combining mystery and a hint of bling.
As we journey along the Essex coastline, we’ll stop in places like Burnham-on-Crouch, St. Lawrence and Bradwell-on-Sea. Villages in the Dengie Hundred. Places I’ve called home, soaking up the coastal charm and small community vibes. Welcoming pubs like the King’s Head in Bradwell, or The Anchor on the Quay in Burnham-on-Crouch—establishments that represent my misspent youth! These places have a special spot in my heart, and they’ve woven their magic into the fabric of my stories.
But that’s not all! Speckled Hill takes inspiration from all these gems. It’s like a cozy mash-up of my own experiences, combined to create a world that’s as enchanting as it is familiar.
And there’s a fun story behind the fictional village’s name. Kelvedon Hatch, a village near Brentwood, was originally Kelvenduna in the Domesday Book, which means Speckled Hill. It’s a charming piece of history that adds a unique layer to our cozy world.
So, there you have it—a peek into the places and stories that bring the Chloe Essex Cozy Mysteries to life. If you’re up for mystery, laughter, and a touch of Essex charm, these tales are waiting for you.
Can you picture yourself snuggled up with Chloe and her pals, uncovering secrets, and feeling right at home? Let me know in the comments.
Read The Only Way is Larceny FREE today.
Want to chat with Lou?
This is not the same as Lou’s Clues, her mailing list, which requires a separate subscription.
By submitting your details, you’re confirming we may email you. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Please see our privacy policy which explains how we look after your data.
The Only Way is Larceny
Though it’s summer, Chloe Essex is rehearsing the theatre company’s birthday spectacular—The Nutcracker! But when the Sugar Plum Fairy’s priceless tiara vanishes, she only has hours to find it before the play opens.
With temperatures and tensions rising, the cast and crew discover the spotlight reveals more than anyone bargained for. Chloe must navigate a hotbed of rivalries and mishaps to unravel the mystery and save her last performance.
Can she solve the crime or will the curtain on Chloe’s career and history’s most unconventional Nutcracker fall forever?
Dive into this laugh-out-loud contemporary British cozy mystery full of twists, turns, and surprises that are sure to keep you guessing until the final act!
More info →