A Canada-based author is dedicating his newest crime novel to the ‘wonderful’ people of Cumbria.
Jonathan Whitelaw, from Glasgow but based in Alberta, Canada, will release his latest novel ‘The Garden Club Murders’ on Thursday, February 13.
(Image: Supplied) The book which is set in Penrith and Ullswater is the fourth book in Jonathan’s ‘Bingo Hall Detectives’ series which is set in Cumbria and celebrates the author’s love for the county which was formed by trips to the Lake District and its surrounding areas with his family.
The latest installment in the series follows three previous editions, ‘The Bingo Hall Detectives’ which was released in 2022 and helped Jonathan scoop the Gilpin Hotel Prize for Fiction 2023, ‘The Village Hall Vendetta’ in May 2023, and ‘The Concert Hall Killer’ in April 2024.
Ahead of the release of his latest Cumbria-themed crime novel, Jonathan previewed the latest chapter in the series.
Jonathan Whitelaw at the Lakeland Book of the Year Awards 2023 (Image: Supplied) He said: “It’s always such a thrill to be able to sit down and write another Bingo Hall Detectives book – not least because it transports me back to Penrith, the Lakes and Cumbria, no matter where I am in the world.
“This is the fourth in the series and it’s been the usual madness of murder, mayhem, and mischief pulling it all together.
“And while I’m technically not allowed to pick a favourite from the series, this one is absolutely right up there with what I’m most proud of, not just from these books, but my career as a whole.
Jonathan has not only celebrated his love for Cumbria through his crime novels but has also enjoyed talk on his books in Carlisle in April 2024 and supported Penrith AFC’s 2023 fundraiser for the Motor Neurone Disease Association.
(Image: Supplied) Now Jonathan is delighted to dedicate his latest novel to the ‘wonderful’ county he loves.
He said: “I’ve got the honour of dedicating this book to Cumbria and all of its wonderful people.
“The area has been such a wonderful, welcoming home from home for me for as long as I can remember. Every time I visit, it feels like I’m back among friends.
“Having the privilege of being able to dedicate this novel to the whole area really is very special.
“It’s a very small thanks and gesture of my appreciation to the area for all of the tireless support, warmth, and love that I receive all year round – whether I’m in Penrith, Paisley or Prince Edward Island.”