#AgathaFinds

The A Bit Of A Christie Podcast has recently hidden Agatha Christie books for you ​to discover! We’re excited to share the joy of Agatha Christie’s stories with you. ​If you find one, feel free to keep it, pass it on, or swap it with someone else. Let ​us know by tagging us @abitofachristie on X and using the hashtag #AgathaFinds.

Is there a key piece of information that could assist in solving the case?

We are firm believers in the idea that knowledge broadens perspectives.

In Agatha Christie's novel "Cards on the Table," a crucial clue is introduced in the initial third of the narrative.

Understanding the game of bridge makes this clue more apparent, which can significantly assist in unravelling the mystery!

In Episode 9 of the podcast, we interviewed, Laura Covill, a coach for the Swedish National Bridge Team - her insights have flipped our understanding of the plot line!

Episodes 1-4

In this episode, we delve into:

🔍 The fictional murder of Mrs. McGinty ​in the quaint village of Broad Heaney.

🕵️‍♂️ Hercule Poirot’s race against time to ​save James Bentley.

🗞️ The real-life horror of Alice Wiltshaw’s ​brutal murder in Stoke on Trent.

🚂 Train timetables and alibis that ​challenge the notion of Leslie Green’s ​innocence.

Episodes 5-8

Episode 9-10

How can I listen?

Our Team

Hazel Jones

Host

Lara Jones

Copy Editor

Our Guests

Ep. 1 - Author

Maggie Moxom

Ep.2 - Actor

Julian Hoult

Ep. 3 - Witch and Author

Jade M Loren

Ep. 4 - Detective

Kieran James

Ep. 5 - Podcasters and D&D players

Ben and Mike

Ep. 6 - Author

Karen Pierce

Ep. 7 - Psychic Medium

Julie Angel Matthews

Ep.8 - Lakeland Terrier Owner

Philip Stader

Ep. 9 - Coach of the Swedish Mixed Bridge Team - Laura Covill

Ep. 9 - Author and Fanzine Editor - Raye Green

Ep. 10 - Award ​Winning Author - ​Jonathan ​Whitelaw

Ep. 10 - True Crime ​Author - Jackie ​Barrow

We would love to hear from you!

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Voted in 60 Best UK True Crime Podcasts

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Margaret Moxom, now retired and residing in Werrington, Staffordshire Moorlands, has led a rich and varied life, transitioning from a secretary at an NHS mental health hospital to a prolific author and artist. With seven books under her belt, Moxom's literary journey began with her experiences in Ostend, Belgium, where she penned her first book, "Escape from Reality." This led to two short stories featuring a fictional detective based in Ostend.

Beyond writing, Moxom's passion for painting shines through on her website, Artweb/Margaret Moxom, where she showcases her oil paintings and accepts commissions. Her move to Staffordshire sparked an interest in local history, particularly the Potteries riots of 1842, inspiring her book "Footsteps in the Past," blending history with supernatural elements.

Further exploration into the paranormal led Moxom to write two sequels, "Footsteps in the Past - The Secret" and "Footsteps in the Past - John's Story," delving deeper into the characters' lives amidst industrial growth and societal struggles.

Venturing beyond Staffordshire, Moxom's fourth book, "Munford-Gunn," recounts the perilous journey of two families escaping persecution, while her fifth book, "Barlaston Murderer - Leslie Green," challenges the narrative surrounding a true crime case.

Her sixth book, "The Rough Close Murder," intertwines a historical fratricide with a contemporary haunting, showcasing Moxom's talent for blending fact with fiction.

In her latest work, "The Day the Sun Disappeared," Moxom tackles the RAF Fauld explosion of 1944, weaving personal stories into a compelling narrative that sheds light on a tragic event long shrouded in secrecy.

Moxom's ability to breathe life into historical events and infuse them with a touch of the supernatural makes her a unique and captivating storyteller. With each book, she invites readers to embark on a journey through time, exploring the complexities of the human experience.

Links to

Maggie’s work

Location: Wolverhampton, Tettenhall

About Julian:

Julian Hoult is a professional actor and acting coach based in Wolverhampton, specializing in preparing aspiring actors for drama school auditions, both for acting and musical theatre courses. With a wealth of experience in the industry, Julian brings a unique insight and expertise to his coaching sessions, helping students hone their skills and navigate the competitive world of theatre education.

Experience:

Julian's acting career spans a variety of prestigious productions and venues, showcasing his versatility and talent. His credits include notable roles such as Mr. Beaver in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe in the West End, productions with the Royal Shakespeare Company (The Jew of Malta, Love's Sacrifice, Volpone), the original West End cast of Soho Cinders at Soho Theatre, and performances in Sweeney Todd at Mercury Theatre and Jesus Christ Superstar on a world arena tour.

Julian's journey into the world of acting began with his own education. He successfully gained entry to multiple accredited drama schools, studying at the prestigious Royal Central School of Speech and Drama on the three-year Acting course, from which he graduated with a first-class degree in 2011.

For aspiring actors seeking guidance and preparation for drama school auditions, Julian Hoult offers personalized coaching sessions tailored to individual strengths and goals. With his extensive experience and passion for nurturing talent, Julian is dedicated to helping aspiring actors achieve their dreams in the world of theatre.

Links to

Julian’s work

About Jade:

Jade M Loren is a versatile writer, experienced copyeditor, and engaging podcast interviewer, bringing creativity and expertise to every project she undertakes. With a background in both writing and editing, Jade offers a unique blend of skills that contribute to the success of her endeavors.

Experience:

As a freelance copyeditor, Jade has collaborated with City Owl Press, a renowned publishing house, ensuring the quality and accuracy of manuscripts before they hit the shelves. Her meticulous attention to detail and keen editorial eye have earned her recognition in the industry.

Jade's passion for storytelling extends beyond the written word. As a podcast interviewer for the annual WriteOnCon kidlit convention, she has engaged with authors and industry professionals, delving into the intricacies of the writing process and sharing valuable insights with listeners.

In addition to her editorial work, Jade is actively involved in the writing community as a critique partner, having collaborated with authors on projects such as Ink in the Blood by Kim Smejkal. She has also served as a mentor for aspiring writers through initiatives like TeenPit, offering guidance and support to emerging talents.

Jade's commitment to professional development is evident in her accreditations. She holds certifications in Proofreading and Copyediting from John Academy London, complemented by a foundation certificate in Creative Writing from the Open University. Furthermore, she earned a degree in Film Production from Staffordshire University, enhancing her storytelling abilities across different mediums.

Book:

In her book, Basic Witch's Guide to Intuitive Tarot, Jade M Loren shares her deep understanding of tarot as a bridge between the mundane and the magical. Drawing on over 10 years of experience as a witch and tarot reader, including work on psychic phone lines, YouTube readings, and TikTok live readings, Jade demystifies tarot and empowers readers to explore their intuitive abilities.

Through this guide, Jade encourages readers to embrace tarot without fear or self-doubt, offering practical advice on choosing a deck, connecting with the cards, and interpreting their meanings. With warmth and wisdom, she emphasizes the importance of finding one's own truth within the tarot's rich symbolism and cultivating a personal style of interpretation.

With her diverse skill set and dedication to excellence, Jade M Loren continues to make a significant impact in the literary world, both as a writer and an editor.

Links to

Jade’s work

Location - United Kingdom

Kieran James is a distinguished professional with a background in law enforcement and military service. As a veteran of the army police and the police constabulary in the UK, Kieran has dedicated much of his life to public safety and law enforcement. His extensive experience has equipped him with exceptional skills in leadership, investigation, and community service.

Passionate about history, particularly military history, Kieran has studied this field extensively, with a focus on the Soviet Union. He enjoys reading the Sharpe novels and the Flashman series, reflecting his deep interest in historical military adventures.

A dedicated family man, Kieran values his time with loved ones, balancing his responsibilities with grace. He is also an avid contributor to our podcast, sharing his knowledge and passion for history with a wider audience. His engaging storytelling and insightful analyses make him a valued voice in the podcast community.

In his leisure time, Kieran enjoys watching war films, appreciating both their entertainment value and historical depictions.

Kieran James embodies a life of service, intellectual curiosity, and dedication to both his profession and family.

Listen to Kieran’s episode here:

Session Zero: Podcast Overview

Welcome to Session Zero with the dynamic duo, Ben and Mike! Join them as they dive ​into the thrilling world of Dungeons and Dragons, role-playing games, and their amazing ​therapeutic benefits. From character creation to epic battles, Ben and Mike will guide ​you through the captivating world of RPGs, unlocking their incredible potential for self-​discovery and personal growth.

Each episode features deep dives into exciting topics, with Ben and Mike sharing their ​insights and expertise as seasoned players and dungeon masters. They also welcome ​special guests from the RPG community, including game designers, authors, and ​therapists, providing a well-rounded perspective on the many benefits of role-playing.

Whether you're a veteran player or a curious newcomer, Session Zero is the perfect ​podcast for anyone eager to explore RPGs and their positive impact on mental health ​and well-being. So, grab your dice, sharpen your pencils, and get ready to roll initiative ​with Ben and Mike on Session Zero!

Tune in every Tuesday at 9 PM Pacific (USA) for new episodes.

Links to

Session Zero

Jonathan Whitelaw

Author and Journalist

Jonathan Whitelaw is an acclaimed author, ​award-winning journalist, and broadcaster. With a ​dynamic career spanning multiple media, ​Jonathan has distinguished himself in both the ​literary and journalistic worlds.

After starting his career on the frontline of ​Scottish politics, Jonathan transitioned into ​journalism. His reporting has covered a diverse ​array of topics, from breaking news and politics ​to the arts, culture, sports, fashion, music, and ​even radioactive waste. His byline has appeared in ​prominent publications such as The Sun, Daily ​Mail, Scotsman, STV, and The Scots Magazine, as ​well as numerous international newspapers and ​websites.

Jonathan is also a regular presence at book events and literary festivals. He has ​contributed to the Blood Brothers podcast and the Bloody Scotland Book Club, and he ​has presented the Desert Island Crooks panel at the Bloody Scotland crime writing ​festival.

Early Life and Career

Born and raised in Glasgow, Jonathan pursued psychology at university before deciding ​against a life in academia. Instead, he followed his passion for writing, a natural choice ​given his background in a journalism household. His career has seen him work for some ​of the UK’s most significant media outlets, interviewing a wide range of people and ​covering diverse subjects.

Jonathan’s unique experiences include reporting on the quadrennial radioactive waste ​conference, which he humorously describes as the "world cup of radioactive waste." ​Beyond his professional life, he enjoys sports, history, and music. He is an active ​participant in Scotland Writers FC, where he plays against charity teams and other ​writers from around the globe.

Writing Journey

Jonathan's love for writing began early. He started crafting stories as soon as he could ​write and began working on novellas and novels around the age of 17. His passion for ​both fiction and non-fiction has fueled his professional writing career, allowing him to ​explore a wide range of genres and topics.

Inspirations and Influences

Jonathan's literary tastes are eclectic. He grew up reading science fiction and fantasy, ​and as he matured, he developed an appreciation for historical and literary fiction. His ​sense of humor has been shaped by influential figures like Armando Iannucci, Mike ​Judge, and John Swartzwelder.

Debut Novel: Morbid Relations

Jonathan’s debut novel, Morbid Relations, is a darkly comic exploration of coping with ​family loss and the process of growing up. The novel delves into the unique gallows ​humor that often accompanies tragedy, particularly in Scottish culture. Jonathan’s ​ability to tackle such themes with wit and sensitivity has been a highlight of his writing ​career.

Morbid Relations is available for purchase from Ringwood Publishing and Amazon.com.

Connect with Jonathan Whitelaw

For more about Jonathan Whitelaw and his work, visit:

X: @JDWhitelaw13

Facebook: Jonathan Whitelaw Author

Jackie Barrow: A True Crime Author Rooted in the Heartland

Jackie Barrow, a grandmother and a celebrated author, has made her mark in the literary world with her compelling exploration of true crime stories. Her journey into writing, especially in the true crime genre, is as fascinating and intricate as the cases she investigates and documents.

Life in the Midwest

Born and raised in Missouri, Jackie has lived in the Midwest for most of her life, except for a brief period in Cleveland, Ohio. Her deep roots in the heartland of America have profoundly influenced her perspective and writing style. Jackie describes her community as one with strong morals, a robust work ethic, and a friendly demeanour where no one is a stranger. This serene and picturesque setting, however, became the backdrop for some shocking events that steered Jackie towards true crime writing.

A Family Tragedy

Jackie's foray into true crime began with a personal tragedy. Her nephew, Zachary, was brutally murdered at the age of 26, a devastating event for her family and the tight-knit community. As an attorney, Jackie felt a strong urge to investigate and understand the circumstances surrounding his death. Although law enforcement advised her to step back, Jackie channelled her energy into writing, aiming to uncover the truth through her narrative.

Writing Journey and Influences

Jackie's writing journey was heavily influenced by her love for classic mystery and crime literature. An ardent admirer of Agatha Christie, Jackie draws inspiration from Christie's insightful understanding of human behaviour and intricate plotting. She is also a member of Sophie Hannah's author coaching program, which has been instrumental in honing her craft.

Her initial foray into writing about her nephew's murder resulted in a publication that she later withdrew, finding it too personal to share. However, this experience ignited her passion for writing about true crime. She began researching other murders and suspicious deaths in her area, uncovering numerous cases that painted a different picture of her seemingly idyllic hometown.

Exploring True Crime

Jackie's meticulous research led her back in time, discovering brutal murders and suspicious deaths dating as far back as the 1820s. Her work bridges the gap between fiction and reality, offering readers a glimpse into the darker side of human nature. Inspired by works like Truman Capote's "In Cold Blood" and John Grisham's "The Innocent Man," Jackie strives to present her findings with the same gripping narrative style.

Her writing is also influenced by other notable authors, including Stephen King, whose conversational tone and down-to-earth style she admires. Jackie’s true crime stories are not just about the crimes themselves but also about the impact these events have on communities and families, a theme deeply personal to her.

A Personal Note

Beyond her writing, Jackie enjoys spending time with her grandson, who is the highlight of her life. Celebrating her 40th wedding anniversary, Jackie and her husband cherish their time with family, reflecting the strong community values she often writes about.

Jackie dreams of visiting England, the homeland of her literary idol, Agatha Christie, and exploring her genealogical roots in England, Scotland, and Ireland. She envisions spending six months there, immersing herself in the culture and history that have long fascinated her.

Jackie Barrow's dedication to uncovering the truth and her passion for storytelling make her a remarkable figure in the world of true crime writing. Her work not only seeks to solve mysteries but also to understand the human condition, much like the authors who inspire her.

Our Blog

A Love Letter to Agatha Christie: How My Passion Was Rekindled

Our first blog post. A little bit of background to who we are and how the journey began.

Hello, I'm Hazel Jones, the voice behind ABitOfAChristie podcast. If you've tuned in, you probably already know about my deep affection for the queen of crime herself, Agatha Christie. But perhaps you're curious about the roots of my fascination and how this podcast came to be.

A hobby...me?

First and foremost, I wear the badges of parenthood, friendship and educator proudly. Yet, like many parents, I found that as I poured my heart and soul into raising my children, my personal hobbies and interests began to dim in the background. The evenings once filled with sports or leisure activities gradually and rightly made way for the bedtime routines and quality time with my little ones.

However, one night, while indulging in an Agatha Christie episode, a flood of memories from my childhood rushed back. I remembered visiting my Granny's flat after school, where she would often be engrossed in a Poirot or Marple mystery. My love for Agatha Christie was intricately woven with memories of my Granny, one of the most influential figures in my life.

Granny

My Granny, a Lancashire lady, had weathered life's storms with resilience and grace. Despite facing challenges, including the loss of her beloved husband when my mother was just a teenager, she remained steadfast and unwavering. To her, Agatha Christie's mysteries provided a welcome escape from life's pressures, offering a puzzle to solve and a world to explore.

As I reminisced with her about the past, discussing everything from wartime experiences to the timeless truths of human nature, I realised that Agatha Christie's work transcends generations. Her keen understanding of human character and the complexities of the human psyche resonated deeply with me.

My love for Agatha Christie is, in essence, a love for Margaret Ashworth, my Granny, and all those resilient, intelligent souls who leave an indelible mark on the world. Through her stories, Christie gifted us with a timeless catalogue of humanity, showcasing the busybodies, cheats, heroes, and innocents who populate our lives.

So, what now?

With my podcast, I aim to delve deeper into world history, the origins of my love for Christie's work, and the enduring impact of her stories in 2024. Because even in this fast-paced, technology-driven age, Agatha Christie's mysteries continue to captivate and inspire, reminding us of the enduring power of storytelling and the universality of the human experience.

Join me on this journey as we uncover the secrets of Agatha Christie's world and celebrate the legacy of a literary icon who continues to enchant readers across generations.

The Black Hound

in the Mire of the Mind

The COVID-19 pandemic brought with it a host of unexpected challenges, some more obvious than others.

Back in my younger days, football was a big part of my life—it kept me fit and provided a great social outlet. When ​the pandemic struck, it felt like everything suddenly stopped. My partner and I were in the midst of another IVF ​cycle when the world went into lockdown, and my partner’s Grandma was admitted to hospital. Suddenly, the ​social connections that had been so important to me were cut off, and despite my Mum being only 40 minutes ​away, it felt like she had dropped off the planet.

These challenges led me to think a lot about communication and connection. The Queen’s words, quoting Vera ​Lynn’s “We’ll meet again,” really resonated with me during that time. I realised how crucial it was to talk openly ​about my feelings and the losses I’d faced, including losing my Dad and Granny. This period of reflection and the ​need to reconnect with people eventually pushed me to start a podcast.

In my previous blog post, I mentioned how much I owe my love for Agatha Christie to my Granny. Her passion for ​Christie’s mysteries was truly infectious. I recall how she would get lost in both the books and TV adaptations, and ​her enthusiasm for these stories has stayed with me.

My Dad was another big influence. He was an amateur historian and teacher with a keen interest in true crime, ​particularly the Jack the Ripper case. His fascination was less about the violence and more about the unsolved ​mystery. He had his own theories about who the Ripper might have been, which he would often discuss with me, ​though the details have faded from memory. His passing when I was just eighteen left a significant gap in my life, ​and now I’ve spent more time without him than with him, but his impact is still very much present.

This podcast is my way of paying tribute to my Granny’s love for Agatha Christie, my Dad’s interest in true crime, ​and my Mum’s steadfast support. As BT famously said, “It’s good to talk,” and I’m thankful I found the courage to ​share my passions and experiences through this platform.

Thank you for reading. Your support is truly appreciated, and I hope you find something meaningful in the stories ​and discussions this podcast has to offer.

The Chronicle

Alsager, Biddulph, Sandbach and Congleton

We were featured in our local paper on Thursday 2nd May 2024.

Hazel Jones spoke to Melanie Walker. A copy of the article is on this page: