From Rejection to Sunday Times Bestseller – Lesley Kara on Craft and Persistence

This week on The Write Place Podcast, I’m joined by bestselling psychological thriller author Lesley Kara, whose debut novel The Rumour became a Sunday Times bestseller and was later adapted for television.

We talk about her latest novel, Troublemaker, a tense psychological thriller set in Tunbridge Wells, and explore how grief, vulnerability and doubt shape both her characters and her storytelling.

Lesley shares:

• The real-life influences behind Troublemaker
• Why short chapters matter in suspense fiction
• What it was really like seeing The Rumour adapted for TV
• The business realities of commercial publishing
• Writing her debut at 55 and why it’s never too late
• How social media became a creative outlet rather than a chore

It’s a practical, honest conversation about craft, resilience and staying visible in a competitive market.

About Lesley Kara

Lesley Kara is the Sunday Times bestselling author of multiple psychological thrillers including The Rumour, Who Did You Tell?, The Other Tenant and her latest novel Troublemaker.

Her debut, The Rumour, was a breakout success and has since been adapted for television. Lesley lives in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, and began her publishing career in her mid-fifties after years of writing and perseverance.

Topics Covered

• Writing lean prose in psychological suspense
• Structuring novels using three-act structure
• Managing pressure after a commercial breakthrough
• Adapting novels for screen
• Balancing creativity with the business of publishing
• Building community and reach through Instagram
• Late-start writing careers

Links

🌐 Lesley Kara Website: https://www.lesleykara.com

📸 Instagram: @lesleykarawriter
📖 Troublemaker – Available now in bookshops and online

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If you’re writing your own novel and want professional support with structure, editing or publishing, take a look at my self-publishing packages and mentoring options:

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