Lethal Ladies & Co is a crime writers’ performance group, headed by Sarah Rayne and fellow author, Maureen Carter. Their aim is to provide a tailor-made evening for libraries, writers’ groups, bookshops – anyone who loves reading, writing or simply talking about books.

Here’s what’s on offer:

A straightforward talk. This is what writers’ groups usually enjoy, and is a double-act by Sarah and Maureen about the nuts and bolts of writing books: the agonies and the ecstasies, the blocks and the inspirations. It can also involve audience participation – Sarah and Maureen love to include writers and would-be writers in an exercise involving music and how it affects or kick-starts the creative flow.

Readings and panels. Generally one for bookshops, libraries and seminars. Lively discussions are greatly welcomed, and the topics range far and wide.

Story-telling evening. Great for autumn and winter evenings. It starts with Maureen’s lively diaries (hitherto unpublished) from her feisty thief-taker, Bev Morriss, and ends with Sarah’s ghost story by candlelight, complete with spooky background music.

So what about the ‘& Co’ aspect of Lethal Ladies? Sarah and Maureen have a carefully chosen group of writer colleagues and friends – a group of strolling players who won’t have to stroll very far to perform – they’ll join in when there’s a booking in their area.

Fees are agreed beforehand, but like everything else are flexible. For more information, phone: 0121 449 8683 or email: sarahrayne@btinternet.com or maureencarter@gmail.com, if possible putting ‘Lethal Ladies’ as the subject line.

Maureen Carter, has a background in journalism, mainly with BBC TV news plus a presenting stint with Newsnight. Like Sarah, she has worked in the amateur theatre. She writes the acclaimed police series featuring the feisty Bev Morriss; Bev made her debut in Working Girls and her latest outing is in Baby Love. Maureen’s website is at www.maureencarter.co.uk