Jess Kidd shares late autism diagnosis and writing insights

London-Irish author Jess Kidd has released a new novel titled "Murder at Gull’s Nest." This cozy mystery is set in the 1950s and follows a former Irish nun, Nora Breen, as she searches for her missing friend in a guest house in Kent. The story is filled with dark humor and memorable characters. It marks the beginning of a series centered around Breen. Kidd describes her writing style as influenced by her Irish heritage. Growing up in London with family in Ireland inspired her love for storytelling. Her mother, a skilled storyteller herself, played a significant role in shaping her narrative voice. Though Kidd has previously included supernatural elements in her writing, this new book sticks to traditional cozy crime themes. In her novel, Kidd explores the theme of found families, showcasing unique characters like an intelligent, neurodivergent girl named Dinah. Kidd herself was diagnosed with autism in her late forties, a revelation sparked by a conversation with her daughter. She hopes to raise awareness about late diagnoses in women, who often experience different challenges compared to men. Kidd reflects on her struggles with social situations and memory, such as recognizing faces and managing time. She credits her large family for helping her learn to navigate various personalities. Her writing process benefits from her autism traits, including hyperfocus, allowing her to edit her work thoroughly. She believes that understanding autism can lead to more effective diagnostic criteria, especially for girls. Kidd sees a connection between her writing and her experiences, stating that writers often observe the world differently. For her, the creative flow is crucial, and she emphasizes the importance of playfulness in the writing process. "Murder at Gull’s Nest" is now available, and Kidd continues to innovate within the crime genre while sharing her journey with autism.