Published Works: Gracie Fairshaw and the Mysterious Guest (2020), Kintana and the Captain’s Curse (2021), Gracie Fairshaw and the Trouble at the Tower (2021), Gracie Fairshaw and the Missing Reel (2024) & Wrong Tracks (2025).
Tell me a bit about yourself?
I am a children’s book author from Wigan (I grew up in Abram and Platt Bridge.) I have worked as a journalist and sub-editor, wildlife and heritage educator, museum learning manager, library assistant and I am currently studying a MA in creative writing with a focus on writing for adults.
What sort of literature do you write?
I write uplifting historical mysteries for ages 8+.
What inspires you to write?
The gaps in history and in particular Northern people, places and events. The Gracie Fairshaw mystery series is set in 1930s Blackpool has plots set around the Illuminations, the tower and the Winter Gardens/The Regent cinema. Wrong Tracks is all about the Rainhill Trials in 1829 and includes the opening of the Liverpool & Manchester Railway.
How have your personal experiences influenced your writing?
I am often inspired by childhood passions. I love visiting Blackpool – which led to the Gracie Fairshaw books. Kintana and the Captain’s Curse was prompted by a childhood obsession with the Disney film Blackbeard’s Ghost.
I also like to follow in the footsteps of my characters, for example, while researching Wrong Tracks I visited lots of places connected to early locomotives and enjoyed two footplate experiences on steam trains.
Tell me what your latest creative work is about?
Wrong Tracks is a mystery inspired by a real boy from Tyldesley in Wigan – Edward Entwistle who became a media sensation in his old age when he told reporters that he drove Rocket – the famous steam locomotive – as a teenager.
The book has received a 5/5 review from the Daily Telegraph.
Book Trust said: “This enthralling mystery contains a wealth of historical detail and touches on issues of the time, such as political unrest and opposition to the Rail Way. With plenty of twists and turns, it will keep readers guessing until the very end.”
What do you hope your readers will get from your latest creative work?
I hope children will enjoy learning how important the railways were and that the north played a key part in their development – while trying to solve a fun, fast-moving mystery with secrets, spies and sabotage!
What are you working on at the moment or what do you have planned for the future?
I am working on a middle grade murder mystery inspired by early motorcars which sees my heroine trying to solve the case as the suspects compete in a race from Lancashire to Yorkshire.
I am also just beginning an adult novel as part of my MA studies.
What is the most exciting thing and the most challenging thing about writing?
The most exciting thing is when children want to discuss what happens in a story – I love hearing their theories as to whodunnit! The most challenging part of writing is trying to fit in the writing around school visits, publicity and the day job!
What advice would you give to anyone who wants to be a writer?
Write what you are passionate about – it will show in your writing.
Where can readers learn more?
My website: susanbrownrigg.com
Social Media Links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanbrownriggauthor/