It is always wonderful to connect with other writers, and I am thrilled to introduce you to an American cozy mystery writer. Veronica Cline Barton’s lifelong love affair with British murder mysteries inspired her to embark on a literary, whodunit adventure after retiring from a career in engineering and technical sales. Family Skeletons is the latest adventure in the Castlewood Manor Series. I asked Veronica to tell me more about her writing and her latest novel-Family Skeletons: The Secrets of Castlewood Manor
Jessie: When did you first realise you wanted to write novels?
Veronica: Three moments in time inspired me to jump into the writing pool: My retired, engineer little-gray-cells were churning at the bit for a new project to take on. Downton Abbey season 6 came to an end one dark, Sunday night. In my twenties, I flippantly used to boast I’d write a book one day—going into my sixth decade, I decided not to let myself down.
Jessie: Explain what Family Skeletons: The Secrets of Castlewood Manor is about and what inspired you to write it.
Veronica: In the tenth and latest book in my cozy mystery series, Family Skeletons: The Secrets of Castlewood Manor, my protagonist, Gemma finds herself a best-selling author. Before her publicity tour begins, bodies start to drop. My inspo? Show me a writer who doesn’t love to dream and talk about their craft. And perhaps sneak in a few well-placed snarks and giggles.
Jessie: Do real people and events inspire your novels?
Veronica: I try not to incorporate specific people or events into my books. However, one may find ‘hints of’ or ‘inspired by’ characters and events that may make you smile or raise an eyebrow. Enquiring minds will know.
Jessie: Explain how you overcame a challenge with your current novel?
Veronica: Serious life-twist here. My beloved editor, Theresa Snyder, passed away suddenly a month before my manuscript was completed. I’d worked with Theresa for years and was quite devastated. The words stopped for some time as I mourned and re-grouped. Angelic whispers and a few (friendly) nudges put me back on track.
Jessie: Have you got any tips for aspiring authors?
Veronica: Today, the expanse of the world and beyond is at your fingertips, use it to your imaginative advantage. Long or short, we all have stories to tell.
Author bio:
Veronica’s cozy, country house murder mysteries spin the mayhem as country life meets the high life. The tales include luxurious settings and glamorous events; baffling scenarios to keep you guessing; have a touch of wry humor to lighten up the mood when needed (frequently); and are spiced with a dash of romance to keep things interesting.
No one is safe, or above suspicion in these stories be they royals, actors, villagers, eccentric guests, or the inhabitants of Cherrywood Hall (ghosts included). Hijinks, high drama, and flowing cocktails abound.
When not writing, Veronica travels the world looking for inspiration and resides in California with her husband, Bruce, and two cats, Jett and Gemma.
More about Family Skeletons
What happens when your best-selling book becomes a blueprint for murder? Lady Gemma Lancaster Williams is about to find out as she begins a publicity tour to promote her new collection of genteel secrets from the families of the rich and famous.
Her publisher and agent have the next project in mind, but as the tour and her eclectic mix of stories from her swanky raconteurs begin to unravel, destiny has other plans. A killer with a macabre flair is in their midst.
Will Gemma be able to uncover who is behind the murderous scheme before the final page is turned? Perhaps some secrets are best left buried…
You can discover more about Veronica here.