Tue Dec 23 05:06:13 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and rewrite as a news article:
Summary:
British crime writer Clare Mackintosh, speaking at the Bangalore Literature Festival, discussed her experiences with grief following the death of her son and how it has influenced her writing. Her book, “I Promise It Won’t Always Hurt Like This: 18 Assurances on Grief,” grew out of a viral Twitter post where she shared her personal journey with loss. Mackintosh, a former police officer, also discussed how her time in law enforcement shaped her storytelling and ultimately led her to pursue writing full-time. She emphasized the importance of honest conversations about grief and highlighted the appeal of female-led crime novels that showcase women’s inner strength. She is currently working on her ninth novel, a psychological thriller titled “It’s Not What You Think,” set to be released in March 2026.
News Article:
Crime Writer Clare Mackintosh Opens Up About Grief and Inspiration at Bangalore Literature Festival
Bangalore, India – December 23, 2025 – Renowned British crime novelist Clare Mackintosh captivated audiences at the Bangalore Literature Festival with her candid discussion about grief, its profound impact on her life, and how it fuels her writing. Mackintosh, a former police officer, shared her personal journey of loss following the death of her infant son, a tragedy that she initially believed would overwhelm her.
“It felt like a physical trauma,” Mackintosh revealed during her conversation with Rudraneil Sengupta. She described the unexpected physical manifestations of grief and how a stranger’s words offered a glimmer of hope. This experience ultimately inspired her non-fiction book, “I Promise It Won’t Always Hurt Like This: 18 Assurances on Grief,” published in 2024, which resonated with millions seeking solace and understanding.
Mackintosh also reflected on her transition from law enforcement to a full-time writing career. Drawing upon her 12 years of experience as a police officer, she highlighted how the job honed her storytelling skills and provided invaluable insights into the complexities of human nature. “Being in the police really taught me that if you live a safe life, free from crime… it is often because of circumstances,” she stated.
Her debut novel, “I Let You Go,” achieved phenomenal success, launching her into a prolific writing career that includes eight novels. She is now revising her ninth novel, “It’s Not What You Think,” a psychological thriller slated for release in March 2026. The book promises a gripping narrative centered around a woman who discovers her partner’s death and subsequently finds herself in a progressively worsening situation.
Mackintosh emphasized the appeal of female-led crime novels, emphasizing the strength and resilience of women characters. She quoted a popular saying, “A woman is like a tea bag – you can’t tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water.”
The Bangalore Literature Festival appearance offered a powerful glimpse into the personal and professional life of a celebrated author, revealing the profound influence of grief and the transformative power of storytelling.
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