Claire Mackay - Author - Cruden Bay Life

Hello! I’m Claire — debut author, lifelong bookworm, grammar enthusiast, and unapologetic dreamer ✨

Originally from Fife, I moved to Aberdeen at 18 to pursue my passion for music, earning a Bachelors Degree in Music Performance from the University of Aberdeen. After graduating in 2018, I added a little magic to my journey with the Walt Disney World Company through an exchange program in Orlando. On returning to Scotland, I completed my PGDE in Primary Education – and spent the next several years teaching across both primary and secondary sectors.

In early 2025, I made the decision to step away from classroom teaching and launch my own private tutoring business, supporting learners of all ages in building confidence, skills, and a love for learning.

In February, I’ll be releasing my debut novel, Noticeboard Neighbours. What began as a personal creative outlet has grown into something so much bigger.

Noticeboard Neighbours

We are thrilled to announce the forthcoming launch of Noticeboard Neighbours, the brand-new novel by local Aberdeenshire author Claire Mackay, who lives in Collieston with her husband Ewan (originally from Cruden Bay), and their cocker spaniel Sam.

Pre-order open now! From 1 November 2025, you can reserve your copy – and the first 50 pre-orders will receive a special edition: signed copy plus surprise bonus! After that, signed copies only. clairemackay-author.co.uk

A little about the story:

Emily Wilder’s life looks perfect—until she begins to notice the cracks. A controlling fiancé, a threatening boss, and a life that isn’t really hers. Then a series of anonymous notes appear on the apartment building’s shared noticeboard after a bin-night dispute. As Emily connects with someone who sees her, she stands at a crossroads: stay silent in someone else’s story, or rewrite her own.

It’s a powerful story of self-growth, resilience, and finding your own voice. Readers call it: “a story of self-discovery and advocacy… Sad-but-funny, with a good ending.”

Living locally, Claire brings an authentic Scottish coastal sensibility to her writing—perfect for fans of emotionally rich, character-driven fiction set against meaningful landscapes.