Caroline Crewe Read

Lesley Crewe, born in Montreal in 1955, is a Canadian author based in Nova Scotia. She began her writing career at age 50, publishing her first novel, 'Relative Happiness,' in 2005. This book, which follows a woman seeking romance in Cape Breton, was later adapted into a film. Crewe's subsequent novels, such as 'Shoot Me' and 'Hit & Mrs,' delve into varied narratives involving family dynamics, unexpected events, and personal journeys. Several of her works are set in Cape Breton, a region that has significantly inspired her writing due to childhood summers spent there.

Crewe's novel 'The Spoon Stealer' (2020) earned her the 2021 Jim Connors Dartmouth Book Award and was longlisted for Canada Reads in 2022. Her books have resonated particularly with readers in Cape Breton, with multiple titles appearing on the regional library's most borrowed lists. Her writing often balances humor and emotional depth, exploring the lives of relatable characters navigating various life circumstances. Her most recent works include 'Recipe for a Good Life' (2023) and 'Death and Other Inconveniences' (2024), continuing her exploration of character-driven stories.

Born Lesley Crewe on June 27, 1955, in Montreal, Quebec, the author developed a deep connection to Cape Breton from a young age. Her mother would take her there for two months every summer, experiences that later fueled her desire to live in the region and serve as inspiration for her writing. After completing her education at Concordia University with a degree in English and education, Crewe eventually settled in Nova Scotia. Her literary career began later in life, with her first novel published when she was 50 years old.

Crewe's literary output spans various novels, many of which are set in Nova Scotia, particularly Cape Breton. Her debut, 'Relative Happiness' (2005), centers on a woman's quest for love in Cape Breton and was adapted into a film. Subsequent books like 'Shoot Me' (2006) and 'Hit & Mrs' (2009) explore themes of family, divorce, unexpected inheritances, and even accidental involvement with criminal elements, often infused with humor and fast-paced plots. Her work frequently features relatable characters facing life's complexities, with settings that often highlight the unique atmosphere of Cape Breton or the character's origins in Montreal.

The author has received notable recognition for her work. Her 2020 novel, 'The Spoon Stealer,' was honored with the 2021 Jim Connors Dartmouth Book Award at the Atlantic Book Awards and was longlisted for the prestigious Canada Reads competition in 2022. Crewe's books demonstrate significant popularity, especially in Cape Breton, where several of her titles have consistently ranked among the most borrowed books at the Cape Breton Regional Library. This local acclaim underscores the resonance of her storytelling with readers familiar with the region she often portrays.