Tell us a little about the book.
It's a mystery set in small town Wisconsin. Randi Lassiter is a reluctant P.I. who gets pulled into a murder investigation and steps on the toes of the detective in charge. Despite butting heads, they are attracted to each other, which adds a flirty element to the story. The mystery centers around an artist community and some quirky suspects. Readers tell me they love the inclusion of familiar places across our state. It was fun to write this genre-blend of romance, mystery, suspense, and comedy.
What has been the most exciting aspect to releasing your first novel?
It has forced me to get over my introverted ways. I am not a mingler, a socializer, a gadabout. I'm more of geeky hermit, content to not be the center of attention. All of that kind of flies out the window when you put a book out there. Now I'm trying to be present everywhere. I'm not just selling my book, I'm selling myself. (Oh, that didn't quite come out right * wink)
What has been the most detrimental?
Finding time to write. Now that I'm addicted to this new found creative outlet I can't shut off the voices in my head. I've got at least a dozen story ideas and no time to write them. I'm terribly undisciplined when it comes to the practice of writing. Fixing that is my next goal.
What other projects are you working on?
Well, book 2 in the Randi Lassiter series is done and through the first round of edits. However, one of my editor's comments started a discussion that perhaps it could be a better story/series if tweaked. Tweak my ass! It has become a full on re-write. But, I agree with him. It will be worth it, the result being a stronger, more character driven story in the end. The bonus is that it's making me a better writer. I'm also working on a stand alone thriller that explores the darker elements of mind control applications. Creepy good fun. LOL.
Thanks D.B. Kennison for stopping by today! I can't wait to read more about Randi, and that thriller sounds super creepy!
Check out STILL LIFE and D.B. Kennison at her website, on Facebook, and on Twitter. You can read her interview with me at https://whispersintheair.com/2016/07/01/meet-the-author-austen-fan-and-avenger-geek-melanie-stanford/.