News: The Fifty-Ninth Issue
- motownmysteries
- Apr 3
- 3 min read
March 2025
The Ides of March have come and gone, which means we must be moving forward towards good times. Around here, we’re hoping for signs of Spring. Some years Mother Nature likes to drop one last snowstorm on us, just to keep people in line.
Writing
Last year at several different festivals where my books were on display, I had the opportunity to speak with book club members. I usually offer to join their group, either in person or remotely, if they wanted to read one of my books. I’m agreeable to discuss the story, the characters, the dialogue or my writing process. Or any topic they choose.
There was a group a while back that opted to read “The Wayward Path” which is the third book in the Jefferson Chene series. When I joined them, they had several questions. Some were focused on Chene and his relationship with Pappy Cantrell, the squad of detectives and of course, Simone Bettencourt, his girlfriend.
One lady asked why a certain character was killed off in the story. I explained that it felt like a natural turn of events, especially given the role this character played. She didn’t seem pleased with that response. But we moved on.
I’m always intrigued to see how different people react to my work. Sometimes a minor character can really connect with someone.
There is another book club meeting on the calendar for next month. I welcome the opportunity to interact with readers. If you’re part of a book club, don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like me to join in.
New Release
My novella, “Part-Time Criminal” is now available in both print and e-book. Many thanks to Diana Kathryn Penn for her editing efforts and designing the cover. Here’s the storyline.
“Some people are born criminals. Others are driven to it.”
There could be a kernel of truth to that statement. Perhaps some people, ordinary, regular law-abiding citizens, are doing their part, working their jobs, when something happens that tilts their world.
Consider Simon Ellis. A quiet, steady guy. He keeps his head down, always working in the background, taking care of business.
Until that fateful day.
When something comes to light that changes how he sees the world.
Will Simon just let it go and continue as before?
Will he be driven to something else?
Something criminal.
In early March I learned that Goodreads was offering a special discount for e-book giveaways during the month. I checked this out with Melissa Keir, the terrific leader at Inkspell Publishing and worked out the details. We decided it was a golden opportunity to feature “Chasing Favors” the award-winning fifth book in the Jamie Richmond series. After all, my favorite redhead does love that spotlight.
So, here’s the deal. Until March 31, you can register on Goodreads for the chance to win one of 100 copies of the e-book. Winners are drawn randomly by Goodreads. You can register by clicking the link below. Good luck!
Work in Progress
With the novella published, I’ve been able to refocus my writing time on “Agonasti’s Dilemma”. I’m at 58,000 words in the first draft and starting to flesh it out in areas where more details are needed. New scenes have been written that help tie in the story. And of course, there has been some reorganization as well as sections of the book are moved about so they make more sense.
My target is 80,000 words.
It’s a good thing Leo is a patient character!
At the same time, ideas for the fourth Jefferson Chene novel keep percolating in my brain. So those have been sketched out as well.
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