AN AUTHOR in Kempsey is set to release his next novel as he settles into his post-retirement writing career.
Stephan Le Marchand’s crime novel, An Untimely Frost, follows Detective Inspector Heppolette as tragedy strikes and devastates a school community in Jersey, Channel Islands.
In the midst of a school production of ‘Romeo and Juliet’, the actress playing the leading lady dies on stage and Heppolette is put on the case.
As she delves into the case, Heppolette uncovers a world where drugs, sex, and dysfunctional families mirror the dark themes of Shakespeare’s play.
An Untimely Frost is described as a ‘compassionate thriller, with elements of mystery and romance.’ It is due to be published on February 28, 2025.
Stephan said: “In this, the first of what I hope will become a series of crime mysteries, I introduce Inspector Theresa Heppolette, Jersey’s most interesting detective since Jim Bergerac.
“The beautiful island of Jersey, where I grew up, will provide a wide range of traditions, locations and characters to explore as Heppolette is kept very busy in the years ahead.
“In her next outing, she investigates the grisly murder of a beautiful young musician.”
After a brief period as a professional actor, author Stephan Le Marchand enjoyed a 35-year career teaching English, serving as a housemaster, and directing school plays.
In retirement, he has embraced grandparenting, golf, gardening, and writing. His first novel, So Much More the Man, was published by The Book Guild in 2021.
An Untimely Frost releases on February 28, 2025.
