Interview with Charlie Tyler, Author of The Cry of the Lake

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Cry of the Lake?

Close to where I live is a slimy puddle of water where King Charles I is said to have watered his horse after the Battle of Naseby. The well is steeped in history but rather underwhelming, and I started the book by thinking there should be a festival to mark its significance—and then wondered about the best way to cause havoc in the surrounding sleepy village. The emergence of a dead body seemed the perfect answer. The rest of the story evolved from the aftermath of that idea.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Cry of the Lake, what would they be?

Grace would have *Karma Police* by Radiohead, Flo would go for anything by *The Cure*, and Lily’s anthem would definitely be *You’re The Voice* by John Farnham.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

My absolute favourite genre is crime thrillers or mysteries, whether dark or light.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I’m currently reading The Impossible Fortune by Richard Osman and Don’t Let Him In by Lisa Jewell.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I really enjoyed writing about Grace’s childhood and building up the scene that leads her to the boathouse — it’s such a pivotal moment in the story.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

When I’m creating, I have to get to my desk early, armed with plenty of coffee or peppermint tea. My dog’s always by my side — his basket’s raised just enough so I can scratch his head without ever looking away from the screen.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

I love this saying by L.M. Montgomery ‘Isn’t it nice to think that tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet?’

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

If you have to judge someone, then do it with compassion.