Clare Leslie Hall

Clare Leslie Hall is a British novelist and journalist residing in the rural landscapes of Dorset, England, with her family. She writes compelling narratives that blend elements of suspense and emotional depth. Under the pen name Clare Empson, she authored two domestic noir thrillers, Him and Mine, which garnered attention in the UK and Germany.

In 2025, Hall transitioned to broader literary fiction with her debut novel, Broken Country. This work, drawing inspiration from L.P. Hartley's The Go-Between, delves into a forbidden love affair set against the backdrop of rural England, exploring themes of grief, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. Broken Country achieved significant acclaim, becoming a Sunday Times and New York Times bestseller, and was selected as a Reese's Book Club pick. The novel's success led to its optioning by Sony Pictures, with Hello Sunshine producing the adaptation.

Hall's writing is characterized by its emotional resonance and intricate character development. Her works invite readers to reflect on the complexities of love and the profound impacts of personal choices.