Carol K. Carr News Feed

Two New Releases

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 13:41 -0500

India Black and the Shadows of Anarchy is a full-length novel which will be published on February 5, 2013. India Black and the Rajah's Ruby is a 15,000 word novella which will be digitally published on December 31, 2012.

The Right Word in the Right Place

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 16:51 -0500

The new blog is up and running, and after this post I'll be switching over and posting there. If you're interested in the latest news concerning India and my other ramblings, head over to the rather grandly titled "The Right Word in the Right Place."

New Blog Coming Soon

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:23 -0500

This week TC and I have been working on creating a new, more visually interesting, reader-friendly blog. That is, I have been firing ideas at TC and he has been hunched over the computer, bringing them to life on the screen. For him, figuring out how to do things on the computer is a game. For me, it's torture. If he weren't my personal IT department, I don't know what I'd do.

I hope to have the new blog up and running in the next few days. I'll put up a link here when I'm ready to start posting.

It's Getting Interesting

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 22:59 -0500

If you're curious about the state of publishing, you should read this. It's getting interesting out there.

Reginald Hill

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 08:37 -0500

There is sad news from the U.K. this weekend. Reginald Hill, the prolific author of the Dalziel and Pascoe series, has died. The obituary in the Telegraph describes his writing more eloquently than I ever could. I'd been planning to read through the series again (I have the first four books on my shelf at the moment) and now I will do so with the knowledge that there won't be any more to come. Sad news, indeed.

Ouch

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:36 -0500

This week I received an invitation to my law school class reunion to be held in D.C. in June. Has it really been 30 years since I graduated?

Ann Bridge

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:23 -0500

I'm participating in Bev's Vintage Mystery Challenge again this year, as I enjoyed it so much last year. I've knocked off six of my sixteen books and today I'm posting my first review, of The Lighthearted Quest by Ann Bridge (1958).

Ann Bridge is the pseudonym of Mary Dollings Sanders O’Malley. As the wife of a British diplomat she spent many years abroad, and her first books were based upon life among the inhabitants of the Foreign Service community. Her first thriller featuring Julia Probyn, The Lighthearted Quest, was published in 1958. She went on to write five more novels featuring her newspaper reporter heroine, whose occupation provides a convenient means of traveling to exotic places and getting involved in all sorts of questionable affairs.

Julia is asked by her family to locate her missing cousin, Colin Monro. Colin is needed at home to run the family estate, but he hasn’t written in nine months and was last heard of sailing around the Mediterranean selling oranges, which even the dimmest character realizes is a euphemism for smuggling.

The Lighthearted Quest begins so slowly that I almost despaired of finishing it. Julia boards a cargo ship and spends the first 70 pages sailing slooowly to the Middle East. Not much detecting takes place on board. In fact, there’s not a great deal of detection going on anywhere, as Julia “discovers” Colin’s whereabouts and activities primarily by playing the dumb blonde and asking questions. Inexplicably, every hardened smuggler/spy/bartender/etc. blurts out all sorts of vital information.

This book is not for dedicated fans of traditional, fairly-clued vintage mysteries, but it does have its delights. You’ll get brilliant depictions of the British ex-pat community, memorable descriptions of exotic locations, a dose of international politics and intrigue and a marvelous set of ladies. Bridge must have spent a great deal of time among women for while her male characters are adequately drawn, her females sparkle. I plan to read the rest of the series.

Fantastic Review

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:53 -0500

I have to share this one. It's a glowing review from Open Letters Monthly, an ezine devoted to the arts and literature. I'll also be doing a Q & A and I'll let you know when that's posted. My thanks to Steve Donoghue for such a terrific review. I'm afraid this one may go to India's head.

Old Favorites and New

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 07:04 -0500

Reviews of India Black keep popping up, so I thought I share them. (Very) belatedly I'm posting Carol's review and guest post, all the way from England.

India garnered reviews in two blogs which are new to me, but look interesting. Check out Beverly's brand new blog. I'm proud to be her first reviewee (is that a word?).

I hadn't seen this blog before, but the name - Castles and Guns - has me hooked. Looks like fun.

2012 Writing Projects

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 10:16 -0500

After a month of hedonistic pleasure, it's time to return to work. Here's what I'll be doing in 2012:

This month I'll be giving India #3 a final read through before it goes off to the editor at the end of the month. I abhor proof reading, but it must be done and done carefully.

I'll be doing the research for India # 4. I have two ideas in mind for her next adventure, subject to the issues discussed in the next paragraph.

I'll be drafting two proposals for India #4 and sending them to my agent Ann for her reaction. I do not have a contract for a 4th book, and I'll be talking to Ann about whether to invest the time in writing the 4th now without a clear commitment from the publisher. As much as I enjoy India (and I know that if you're reading this blog that you do as well) the bottom line is that publishing is all about selling books. How #3 sells will be critical, but of course we won't know the sales figures for many months, hence my uncertainty about proceeding with the 4th novel now.

I have started the research for novel about a female OSS agent set in Washington, D.C. during World War II. I envision this as a series, with the agent taking on increasingly dangerous assignments as the war progresses.

That should be enough to keep me busy. I can tell from comments I receive from friends and contacts that the publication of a novel is considered some magical moment that confers legitimacy on the author. Well, it's a nice validation of your efforts, but you're only as good as your last book. You have to keep writing and pushing yourself to produce the next manuscript. That's what I'll be doing during 2012. Hope you come along for the ride.

What I Did On My Christmas Vacation

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 15:12 -0500

...read a boatload of books, including several titles in the Richard Sharpe series by Bernard Cornwell. I've developed a serious addiction to these.

...spent a week in the recliner staring at the tv with a stupified look on my face and a mountain of used kleenexes piling up around the chair. Yep, I had a cold. I re-gifted it to TC for Christmas. He wasn't pleased with the present.

...cleaned out the closet. Now I have to load up everything and haul it off to Goodwill. And then fill up the closet again, of course.

...drank eggnog and rum and worked on a jigsaw puzzle with my friend Judy. Maybe it was the rum, but the first puzzle we tried defeated us and we started another.

...had a lovely, quiet lunch on Christmas Day with TC and Mom. I ate too much. Then I ate some pecan pie.

...cleaned up my office and organized my writing projects and other goals for 2012, which I will share with you later this week.

2011 - The Year in Review

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 10:24 -0500

I'm back earlier than anticipated. Since you can't turn on the tv or open a paper or read a website without encountering some sort of "Year in Review" feature, I thought I'd do my own.

On the whole 2011 was a good year although not without some tough moments. Mom suffered through several bouts of skin cancer, we lost Xendi, and just this week Bacchus has been diagnosed with lymphoma. We'll lose him soon, and so 2012 will not start out on a good note. However, we've had 12 great years with him and we'll have wonderful memories when he's gone.

On a more cheerful note, the first two books of the India Black series were published and I signed a contract for a third which I finished in December. The reception to the first two was very good (not counting the reviewer who thought I had "body image" issues because I made fun of Queen Victoria's weight). Well, perhaps I do, as I regard losing 32 pounds in 2011 as my most significant accomplishment.

As I usually do, I've spent some time planning activities and objectives for the new year. I regard planning as completely different from making resolutions, which I never keep. I'll update you on the personal and professional goals I've set for myself in 2012, one of which is blogging more frequently. See you in the new year.

See You Next Year

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 15:55 -0500

India #3 arrived safely at my agent's office today, and now I am officially checking out for the holiday season. No proofreading, no tweaking, no panic because chapter 12 needs a major re-write. I plan to read, rest, clean closets, paint bathrooms, and catch up on the movies I've missed. I'll be back in January. I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday.

Top Ten

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 20:02 -0500

It's that time of year again, when bloggers share their list of favorite books for the year. I was very pleased to make Jerelyn's list of 10 Best Historical Mysteries. Thanks, Jerelyn!

Not Your Usual Guest Post

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 06:33 -0500

As promised, Dee De Tarsio is dropping by today for a guest post. Dee has a distinctly different outlook on life and can find the amusing in any situation. Thus, her unorthodox author photo (and Dee, while I appreciate the additional plug for Widow of Windsor, I just don't think it's fair that you sent that photo when the temperature is 20 degrees here this morning).

And now here's Dee, riffing on Ohio, book blurbs, books about aliens, and other subjects of interest:

Dear Carol-Kay, (are you sure you don’t know my cousins Connie Jo, Mary Anne or Donna Marie?)

Congratulations. I am so glad you have time to rest upon the completion of India Black’s 3rd adventure. How do you “midwesterners” celebrate? Ground baloney-a-thons? Walnut-husking parties?

Now, I know we’ve had our differences on what constitutes the midwest, and that your geosnobbery has single-handedly booted my home state of Ohio out of the picture:

“We who live in the real midwest consider Ohio to be just west of the east coast. Ohions (is that the right word) are just one ear of corn away from being Noo Yawkers. Sorry, but I felt I should straighten you out on this geography thing. That's what happens when you move to California: you forget what the rest of the country looks like.”

--Carol K. Carr

Well, Carol, after cavorting with my family on an eastern lakefront in the upper leftish corner of some corn belt (all I know is we hung a u-ey at a silo, and it was so freaking cold I slept under quilts as heavy as sandbags) (in a lovely, finished basement that my sister is so proud of; “Isn’t it amazing how constant the temperature is?” I had to agree with her. “Yes, the deep damn damp freeze was constant--and I succumbed to a near fatal sinus infection. As usual. Just a little somethin'-somethin' to remind me why I don't live back there.).

Anyway, your kind concern about my sinuses and belief that “it must have been the shock of all that fresh air” what with coming from California and all...was touching.

While I am still keeping company with my best-friend Neti (Pot), I am safely ensconced back in southern California, where, in case you were wondering, it is supposed to hit 80 degrees this week. (Thank God. It has been so cold here I haven’t even been able to wear my flip flops. Boo.)

What does this have to do with anything? My own sister, from Ohio, (who lives in the hometown of our late, great 19th president, Rutherford B. Hayes) and heretofore biggest fan, didn’t even want to read my latest novel, Ros, because...well, brace yourself, Ozark, there’s an alien in it. Her husband (my brother-in-law), in a valiant attempt at support was heard to exclaim, “She is from California...” like it is an excuse or something to be forgiven.

Rutherford B. Hayes, Ohio

19th President 1877-1881

President of Creepy Beard Society 1871-1893

(How would you like share a bowl of oatmeal with that come morning time, India?)

In the grand tradition of ~~midwesterners~~ people-not-from-these-parts, sharing thoughts and feelings are frowned upon; the verdict is still out -- my sister is yet to post a review.

Namaste,

Dee

Dee De Tarsio hasn't heard back from Stephen King, either, on her request that he blurb her novel, though she conveniently wrote a draft for him using only 10 little letters: “I read worse.”

ROS

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:21 -0500

Mysterious title for a blog post, no? Actually, it's the name of a novel by Dee De Tarsio which I just finished reading on my Kindle. Dee and I became acquainted when we were both interviewed for a reader's blog last year. We exchanged emails about our respective novels and have been corresponding since. I love seeing her name in my inbox because I know I'm going to spend the next few minutes laughing. She's effortlessly funny, which is why I read her stuff and you should, too.

Here's Ros in brief: Micki Cramer doesn't really need any more complications in her life. Her husband has walked out and her two kids are away at college, getting tattooed, pierced and inebriated. But Micki's life is about to be turned upside down when a spaceship lands in her backyard and she rescues its pilot, the lovely ROS.

Micki is soon entangled with a handsome Navy captain, evil dudes who want to kidnap ROS, her semi-crazy ex-mother-in-law (and Dee, I'm not forgetting that the MOL is from Missouri), her next-door neighbor Stan, and a Navy seal named "Cuz" ('cuz he gets things done). There are lots of memorable moments, but among my favorites is the hilarious road trip to Arizona in Stan's RV to rescue Micki's daughter with the whole gang in tow.

You'll laugh a lot when you read this book, but under the humor you'll detect a deftly written story of the redemptive power of love and friendship. Dee is a former television writer and lives in SoCal with her husband and two college age children. She has kindly agreed to do a guest blog here, so come back on Thursday and meet her. As an added bonus, you'll see a unique version of the author photo. You know how most people do their serious "I am a writer face?" Not Dee.

Check out ROS and Dee's other novels wherever ebooks are sold, and visit Dee's website here.

Katie's Review

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 11:34 -0500

Thank you, Katie, for an excellent review. Never fear - French and India make some romantic progress in #3, although as you might expect, it will be on India's terms!

Work, Work, Work

Sun, 20 Nov 2011 10:33 -0500

My desk looks very different than it did a few days ago. I'm halfway through the first read-through of India #3, and have all my tools at hand. The book at the top of the picture is The A to Z of Victorian London, an atlas of the city first published (under a different name) in 1888. It's a great research tool, except it's virtually impossible to read the tiny print. Even with reading glasses and a magnifying glass, I struggle. I use my handy Streetwise London to find landmarks and orient myself from there. As you've no doubt guessed, this book takes place in London and I'm striving to be historically accurate regarding the location of the action.

She Needs a Bit of Polish

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 16:48 -0500

I typed the last 4,000 words of India #3 this past weekend. Now she needs some spit and polish before I send her off to my agent. I'm glad to be finished with the heavy lifting and am looking forward to the "tweaking" stage.

2012 Vintage Mystery Challenge

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 15:19 -0500

My reading is all over the place. One month I'm hooked on detective novels and the next I'm devouring Russian history. I could never join a book group because I like to read what I want to read, when I want to read it. The exception for me was Bev's 2011 Vintage Mystery Challenge. I signed up to read 16 books, and tried to choose authors I hadn't read in a while or had never tried. I had so much fun that I'm ready for Bev's Vintage Mystery Reading Challenge 2012. I'm doing two levels this year: Golden Age Girls and something in the Murderous Miscellany category I'm calling "Persons of Interest." These are authors who led very interesting lives. We'll meet masters of real-life espionage, former POW's, dancers, and a woman who fled Russia following the Bolshevik Revolution. This one will be fun. Here's the list.

Golden Age Girls:

The Lighthearted Quest - Ann Bridge (1956)

The Shape of a Stain - E.X. Ferrars (1942)

The Bells of Old Bailey - Dorothy Bowers (1947)

Who Killed the Curate? - Joan Coggin (1944)

The Black Smith - Constance & Gwyneth Little (1950)

Green December Grows the Graveyard - Maureen Sarsfield (1945)

Home Sweet Homicide - Craig Rice (1944)

Murder on the Purple Water - Frances Crane (1947)

Persons of Interest (Murderous Miscellany):

Lion in the Cellar - Pamela Branch (1951)

An Oxford Tragedy - J.C. Masterman (1931)

Corpse des Ballet - Lucy Cores (1944)

Death in the Quadrangle - Eilis Dillon (1956)

Murder Makes Me Nervous - Margaret Scherf (1948)

She Shall Have Murder - Delano Ames (1948)

The Widening Stain - Morris Bishop (1942)

Be Shot for Sixpence - Michael Gilbert

The Vesper Service Murders - Van Wyck Mason (1931)

Three Days

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 07:18 -0500

Three days of writing and the first draft of India #3 will be finished. It's about time. At this stage of writing I am a little tired of my ms. As soon as it's completed, though, I'll get a second wind and plunge into the proofing/polishing stage.

To keep up my morale, I'm posting a review by Chris and the list of paperback best sellers from Murder By The Book in Houston, where Widow currently reigns supreme.

Vicky's Bloomers

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 07:05 -0500

Here's a pic (from the Telegraph) of Queen Victoria's bloomers, which sold at auction recently for $15,ooo.

Any comment would be superfluous. Thanks to Jerelyn for bringing this to my attention.

Historical Novel Society

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 07:20 -0500

Here's the last paragraph of the HNS's review of Widow, published in the November issue of the organization's Historical Novels Review (sorry, the review is not online yet):

"For fans of Victorian antics, this confection of a tale, told by India with snappy metaphors, jaded views on practically everything, and laced with a surprising knowledge of Scottish history, is a comical treat. Twists, turns, and tension keep the reader turning the pages, and a good romp is had by all."

Wedding Planners with Guns

Sat, 05 Nov 2011 10:13 -0500

I had no idea that Hillary Clinton's protection detail has several female agents. Here is an article about them, and here is a great photo essay. The title of this post comes from an agent's description of her job.

New Blog, New Review

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 15:50 -0500

There's a new blog in town. If you haven't visited the Reader Unboxed blog, drop by today and you'll find a review of Widow of Windsor written by Dee De Tarsio. Thank you, Dee, for a great review. And if you haven't checked out Dee's own work, do so now. She's hilarious.

A French in the Family

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 09:19 -0500

I was puttering around on Ancestry.com this weekend, working on one of the branches of the family tree, and discovered that my great-great-great grandfather Robert Rowe had married a woman named Nancy French. I had no idea I was related to one of my characters.

Double Your Money

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:10 -0500

I received a couple of very complimentary reviews recently.

Here's a nice review from the Affaire de Coeur magazine.

As well as another nice review from Linda Brinson (who was, for 25 years, the book review editor for the Winston-Salem Journal).

What People Are Saying

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 16:14 -0500

I just opened the October issue of "The 3rd Degree," the newsletter of the Mystery Writers of America. The organization asked some of the readers, writers, publishers and agents who attended Bouchercon, held this past September in St. Louis, what advice they'd offer each other. I've chosen a few of my favorites for you.

From an author to a publisher: "Get the hell out of New York and talk to real readers."

From a reader to a bookseller: "Don't comment on my purchase."

From a bookseller to readers: "Yes, I know you can get it cheaper at Amazon. Trust me, I know."

From an author to readers: "Do not give me one star on Amazon because the Kindle version costs as much as the printed version."

From an author to authors: "Write. Read. Re-write. Repeat. That is all."

And that's what I should be doing right now. Talk to you later.

Interviews and Reviews

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 07:04 -0500

To be precise, one of each. Here's an interview from Audra's website, and Minh's review. Thank you both sharing your blog space.

Keep 'Em Comin'

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 07:05 -0500

Here's a review from Paperback Swap, and another from Mysterious Reviews.

Comin' Back from Houston

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 09:44 -0500

I'm heading home today, after Saturday's signing at Murder By The Book and a couple of days in the Texas hill country. I love visiting that bookstore. Everyone who works there is delightful and their customers are particularly kind to new authors. My only regret is that I still haven't had a good browse through the shelves, being occupied with other things while I'm there.

While I was away, some new reviews popped up and I'll share those with you later this week. But before I sign off for now, I will say that I got some attention from an unexpected quarter last week Jayne Ann Krentz (yes, that Jayne Ann Krentz, New York Times best-selling romance author) read India Black, and had some nice things to say about it on her Facebook page. Thank you, Jayne.

Goin' Back to Houston

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 06:54 -0500

Off to Texas today to sign at Murder By The Book on Saturday at 1:00 p.m.

Had a nice review from Felicia to send me on my way.

India's First Interview

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 06:53 -0500

Lesa very kindly allowed me to interview India for her blog. See what our heroine has to say for herself her e.

A Week of Celebrations

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 10:24 -0500

This is turning out to be a very nice week for me. I've garnered more nice reviews for Widow (have you noticed that I keep abbreviating the name - by this time next week I'll be referring to the book as W).

A review from Noa and a fun interview as well.

Kathy posted her review.

Page shared her thoughts.

Thank you all for your generosity.

An Assortment o' Things

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 12:15 -0500

With today being the official publication date, there are several things going on in the blog world.

First up, Audra's review (I believe I'll get a tramp stamp that says "Victorian Bond Girl.")

Next is Carol's take on the book.

And please check out Kathy's blog, where I wrote a guest post extolling the virtues of book bloggers.

Launch Day

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 06:55 -0500

Today is the official publication date for India Black and the Widow of Windsor. I'm not sure what that signifies, when Amazon and Barnes & Noble are already selling it, but that's just another publishing world quirk I haven't figured out. I'm celebrating with a trip to the gym, a walk in the woods with the dogs, and wrapping up a secret project for my editor (more about that later, if every thing works out as planned).

Review and Signing

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 07:04 -0500

I woke up this morning to find Lesa's nice review of The Widow of Windsor.

In other news, I'll be in Houston this Saturday, October 8th, at Murder By The Book to talk about Widow and to sign copies at 1:00 p.m. Join us if you're in the neighborhood.

My First Starred Review

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 17:30 -0500

I've learned that there are milestones in the publishing journey, like signing an agency contract or seeing your book on the shelves of Barnes & Noble for the first time. I passed another one yesterday: my first starred review, from Library Journal. Sorry, I don't have a direct link, but if you scroll down to the "Check These Out" section, The Widow of Windsor is the first on the list.

Also, if you scroll to the bottom of the page, the reviewer has a quote from the book in the "Quotable" section of the review.

My Cup Runneth Over

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 19:03 -0500

I can't thank Lori enough for this enthusiastic review.

And Jo asked some fun questions for a Q & A with yours truly.

A New Review

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 10:35 -0500

With the official publication date of Widow of Windsor just days away, I'll be presuming on your patience by posting more reviews. Here's a really nice one from Catherine.

Kind Words

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 16:28 -0500

Jo at Fluidity of Time has written up her impressions of India Black and the Widow of Windsor. Thanks, Jo!

India is a Scandalous Woman

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 09:55 -0500

Here's a nice review from Elizabeth's blog.

Fred Taylor

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 10:19 -0500

Nicholas Kilmer wasn't on my radar screen until I read Yvette's glowing recommendation of his Fred Taylor art history mysteries. I am a sucker for any book that involves an expert in anything related to music, art and literature. This week I finished Madonna of the Apes by Kilmer. I wasn't disappointed. In fact, I think I'm in love with Fred. He's not your usual tweed-coated academic hero. He's spent some time doing morally ambiguous work for an unnamed government agency, but he's managed to retain a spark of chivalry. In this novel, he stumbles upon an art scam and decides that the intended victim, Clayton Reed, needs protection. The dialogue (particularly Fred's internal conversation with himself) is sharp and pithy. The characters are devious and deceptive. I'm off to read more of Kilmer's work.

Go here to read Yvette's blog. It's worth a visit.

Where I Should Be

Sat, 17 Sep 2011 12:19 -0500

I had planned to attend Bouchercon this weekend in St. Louis, but unfortunately some family issues took priority and I am here at home, keeping an eye on proceedings from afar through John's blog and Les's blog , among others. I am envious. Some of my favorite authors are attending and there are some fascinating sessions this year. Well, there's always next year.

On a happier note, while I missed Bouchercon I was here for Bacchus's 12th birthday. He celebrated with an extra liver treat and a walk in the woods.

Way Up North

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 16:35 -0500

Freda's a book blogger from our northern neighbor, and she's just written a review of India Black and the Widow of Windsor. You can find it here. Thanks, Freda!

'Tis the Season...

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 13:12 -0500

...for reviews. India Black and the Widow of Windsor will be out October 4th, and here's a very generous review from Bev at My Reader's Block. Thanks, Bev!

#$@%@ Characters!

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 14:32 -0500

I'm at work on India 3 (tentatively titled India Black and the Dark Legion) and the manuscript is progressing nicely. Except for Bonnaire, a French anarchist, who is my own creation but has decided to take on a life of his own. I had his personality and physical appearance planned in advance. I knew how he and India would interact and how their relationship would develop. Then I started writing, and Bonnaire has turned out to have a mind of his own. No matter how hard I try to fit him into my neatly contrived formula, he keeps escaping. He clearly wants to be someone else, and at this point I'm so tired of wrestling with him that I'm letting him take the reins. Sounds odd, I know. I created him and I should control him, but it hasn't turned out that way. #$@%@ characters!

Mixed Bag

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 18:48 -0500

Emily the editor has sent me an advance copy of The Widow of Windsor. I'm very happy to see that India has retained her face on this cover. The ARC's of India Black sported an attractive brunette, but the final version of the cover cut off her head at lip level. Apparently this is a common occurrence during the publication process, as India Black subsequently made an appearance on the list, "Dude, Where's My Forehead?" on Goodreads.

Kaitlyn the publicist informed me that the review copies for bloggers had been mailed on Friday of last week, so those should be arriving soon.

We took a walk in the woods today, and I'm glad that Bacchus seems to have recovered from last week's loss. He's regained his appetite and enjoying the cool air that swept in on Sunday (as am I).

Library Journal will be reviewing The Widow of Windsor in the October edition, so I'll let you know what the folks there have to say.

And finally, the Rugby World Cup kicks off this week in New Zealand. NBC has picked up the rights to show all of the USA Eagles' matches, as well as the semifinals and final. I tried to find a picture of our stalwart lads, but sadly nothing of quality was available. I did spend a pleasant hour looking at ripped rugby studs, though. Remember, it's not the destination, it's the journey.

Moving On

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 20:32 -0500

As you can imagine, I didn't do any writing on Monday or Tuesday of this week. TC and I are adjusting to life without Xendi, but our other dog Bacchus seems very depressed. He hasn't had much appetite and he spends most of his time on the rug where Xendi used to lounge. It's painful to watch.

On a more cheerful note, I cranked out 2,000 words today. After a summer spent shepherding Mom through various medical experiences, dealing with Xendi's bi-monthly illnesses, and watching India 3 stagnate, I've finally gotten on track and am really writing again. I managed 10,000 words last week and hope to do the same each week for the next five weeks. At that point I'll have a first draft to polish. I love printing out that first draft. I'll still have lots of work to do on the manuscript, but looking at a couple of inches of paper is very satisfying indeed.

Sad News Today

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 14:39 -0500

Xendi vom Germelhaus

July 13, 1998-August 29, 2011

Requiescat in pace, Xen-Xen.

Four Star Review for the Widow of Windsor

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 16:18 -0500

Here's a nice review from RT Book Reviews:

"Carr’s second India Black novel is fast, entertaining and funny as well as an engaging mystery. While definitely aiming for humor and excitement rather than realism, there is a clear amount of history worked in so both India and the audience can understand the plot and the Victorian position of the servants and lower classes is brought out.

Queen Victoria is lured by the words of a deceptive medium into holding Christmas at Balmoral, her Scottish home. Off go her selected guests, including Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, who has called British spy Mr. French and India Black in to work undercover. Scotland’s independence movement is heating up and the queen’s life has been threatened.

French is pretending to be a drunken fop in Crown Prince Edward’s circle and India is attached as a lady’s maid to the Dowager Marchioness of Tullibardine. Investigating while serving the woman, tromping through the winding halls of the castle, finding secret passages and trying to separate friends from enemies leaves India exhausted but triumphant."

Reviewed by Page Traynor

Two Teenage Boys

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 20:08 -0500

They were my favorite juvenile detectives. No, it wasn't Frank and Joe Hardy. I read those, I liked them, but I reserved my adoration for Rick Brant and his pal Scotty. Their adventures were probably not preferred reading for most girls, but I loved them. I still do.

Rick lived on Spindrift Island with his scientist dad and some resident scientist types. Rick's sister was, well, lame, but Rick and Scotty were smart and tough. There was always some scientific pretext for heading off to Egypt, the Philippines, or Tibet, where the characters would encounter everything from cannibals to Malay pirates to mad scientists involved in nefarious schemes. I remember one scene where Rick and Scotty had been kidnaped by Fulani tribesmen and escaped by making bombs out of gourds and gunpowder. Shades of MacGyver! Below are the covers of a couple of my favorites.

These books piqued my interest in foreign travel at a very early age, although sadly they did nothing for my interest in science, which was and has remained zilch. A couple of years ago I stumbled across the Spindrift Island website, where other Rick Brant nerds gather. I'm missing two books from the collection and I'm hoping to get my hands on them one of these days.

The website also has a store, which is full of cool Rick Brant items. I've got my eye on the Spindrift Island mouse pad or the coffee mug. Either would make a nice Christmas present.

Nancy Wake

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 15:43 -0500

I am fascinated by the women who served in the OSS (the forerunner of the CIA) and the British Special Operations Executive in World War II. Nancy Wake was the "most redoubtable" of SOE agents who operated in France, according to the Economist, and she died last week at 98. Here's her obituary from the Telegraph.

Publishers' Weekly Review/Goin' Back to Houston

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 16:04 -0500

Publishers' Weekly published a review of India Black and the Widow of Windsor last week. I've been waiting anxiously for the first reaction to the book, so I was pleased with this review.

In other news, I was excited to see that India Black graces the list of 2011 Bestsellers at Murder by the Book in Houston. Number 4 in the paperback category? I'll take it!

The folks at Murder by the Book have been kind enough to invite me back for a signing of The Widow of Windsor. If you're in the area, I'll be at the store at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 8th. Come by and say hello.

We Have a Winner(s)!

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 18:50 -0500

I was looking at the number of galley copies I had been sent by the publisher and concluded that I really didn't need them all. I'm keeping one for a souvenir and one for a spare and that means I'm giving away three copies.

And the randomly selected winners are: Ann Curtis Collins, VPop and Melanie. Congratulations, ladies. If you read this message, please email me with your address and your preference for the signature page (name, date, personal note, etc.). I'll also try to contact you via Facebook or Goodreads.

Thanks to everyone who entered. Now I'm off to do the live chat on the Romantic Historical Fiction Lovers Facebook page.

Giveaway/Live Chat

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 07:35 -0500

Today is the last day to enter for a signed galley copy of India Black and the Widow of Windsor. You can contact me via this blog, or Goodreads, or Facebook. Names are in the hat and I'll be ready to draw tomorrow morning.

Tomorrow evening (Friday, August 12th) I'll be participating in a live chat at the Romantic Historical Fiction Lover's Facebook page. Here's a link to the site (you may want to check it out early in order to join in time to participate). The chat is from 8:00 - 10:00 p.m. (EST). Hope to see you there.

I Prefer Trixie

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 13:44 -0500

I've explained why I don't like Nancy Drew. As a teenaged detective, Trixie Belden was more to my taste. She came from a modest background and had annoying brothers, just like people do in real life. She had freckles. Her nose was always sunburned and she always had a bandaid on one of her knees. Sure, the writers gave her a rich friend so that Trixie could travel and ride horses, but Honey (except for that name) was really okay.

I was checking out the Trixie Belden website the other day, reliving my lost youth, and noticed how many editions of the books were issued. I had the deluxe editions, which were the only ones available at the local five and dime, and I was blissfully ignorant of the others. I say that because a couple of the cover artists should have been shot, shot I tell you, for their interpretations of Trix. On various covers, she looked like an eight year old, a juvenile Dinah Shore, and, worst of all, like a blonde housewife with a sixties hairdo and a pill habit. What were the publishers thinking? To me, Trixie will always be just as she is portrayed in the deluxe editions. I'm glad I didn't stumble onto those other editions - I'd have been traumatized for life if I'd seen those covers.

Next up: my favorite teen sleuth ever.

I Never Did Like Nancy Drew

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 18:33 -0500

I started reading mysteries as a kid. I can still remember finding my Grandma Pal's stack of paperback Agatha Christies when I was about nine. From that day I have been an Anglophile and a lover of vintage mysteries. When it came to sleuths my own age, I had definite preferences. And here I must confess that I Never Did Like Nancy Drew.

Many people adore her, but I always found her, well, lame. Yes, there was the red sports car and the privileged background. She could paint, speak French, dance, sew (ewww), cook, play bridge, handle a horse and play tennis and golf like a pro. Maybe I just couldn't identify with her, living as I did in a small town in Missouri with no tennis courts or golf course within 50 miles, and where the first choice for vehicular transportation was a pickup with a gun rack. And that boyfriend of hers-Ned Nickerson? Also lame. I imagine he'd have pledged Omega Theta Phi. Okay, maybe I was just jealous of Nancy, but for whatever reason we never connected. I still dislike her. But Trixie Belden? That's a different story. More next week.

Kindle Loot

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 10:17 -0500

I've been purchasing a few ebooks lately. The thought of being without something to read is horrifying to me, and I love the idea of carrying around hundreds of books on my Kindle. If the worst happens, I'll still be able to read a mystery, provided, of course, that I can find a way to re-charge the thing if the grid is down and we're all eating Spam. Here's a list of books I recently purchased:

John Dickson Carr: The Plague Court Murders, And So To Murder, She Died a Lady

Anthony Berkeley: The Poisoned Chocolates Case

H.C. Bailey: Call Mr. Fortune

Georgette Heyer: Why Shoot a Butler?

Mary Roberts Rinehart: The Circular Staircase

And finally, in the event an Icelandic volcano interferes with my travel plans for several days, I bought the recent translation of War and Peace by Richard Pevear and Larissa Volokhonsky. Just think of how much more stuff I can take along on my next trip, if I'm not carting ten pounds of Tolstoy.

Scandalous Women

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 08:48 -0500

I am fond of women who don't play by the rules. So is Elizabeth Kerri Mahon, who writes the terrific blog "Scandalous Women," and who has now published her first book under the same name. The author calls herself an "amateur history geek," but there's nothing amateurish about this book. These sketches of infamous ladies are written with stylistic verve and a professional historian's eye for detail. The disgraceful ladies depicted in these vivid biographical vignettes range from the familiar (Cleopatra, Emma Hamilton) to the less well known (Grace O'Malley, an Irish pirate who met with Queen Elizabeth I), but each of them defied family and society to chart her own course in life, sometimes with disastrous consequences. It would be tempting lionize these ladies as early incarnations of our own views about the proper place of women in society, but the author never shirks from describing the price each woman paid for her bravery, daring, and often her stupidity in challenging accepted conventions. The result of this careful treatment is a rich, sympathetic portrayal of each of the featured women. Highly recommended.

Widow of Windsor Giveaway

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 16:59 -0500

October 4th will be here before you know it, and India Black and the Widow of Windsor will be on the shelves. But that's still nine weeks away, and I have a reviewer's copy of the book which is just begging to be given away right now. There is no fancy cover art on this version, just a plain pinkish/salmon sort of cover with a bunch of official notices on it, like NOT FOR SALE. If you're interested in getting a sneak peak of the second India book, send me a contact submission here at the blog or get in touch with me via Facebook or Goodreads by Thursday, August 11th. Then I'll select a winner, using the time-honored technique of putting all your names in a hat, closing my eyes, and choosing one slip of paper.

More Scottish History

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 17:16 -0500

As a descendent of the Scott family, it's a bit of a coincidence that I married a descendent of one of the Scott's ancient enemies, the Kerrs (also spelled Ker and Carr). Of course, the history of the Scottish border reivers cannot be summed up quite so succinctly. I'm not sure whether TC's ancestors were the Kerrs of Ferniehurst or the Kerrs of Cessford. The Ferniehurst family were fellow Catholics, supporters of Queen Mary, and allies of the Scotts. The Cessford group was Protestant, favored Queen Elizabeth I, and was the sworn enemy of my ancestors. I'll have to do a bit more digging to ascertain whether we are enemies or friends.

Like most of the border families, the Kerrs built stone towers to which they could retreat if attacked. In these towers, called "keeps," a stone staircase ran counter-clockwise up the interior wall to the upper stories. This allowed the inhabitant of the keep to defend against attackers with his own sword arm free and that of his challenger being pinned against the wall. The Kerr keeps are slightly different, as the family had a reputation for being predominantly left-handed. Their stairs were built to run clockwise, which enabled them to have their left arm (the sword arm) free. It's a feature of Kerr towers that can still be seen today. This kind of historical trivia fascinates me, although I venture to say that it wouldn't have seemed like a trivial fact to the Kerrs when the Scotts were hammering at the door.

Rogues in the Family

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 17:06 -0500

I like history, including my family's. If I won the lottery I'd pay a professional genealogist to unearth the past for me, but until that day I have to limp along at my own slow pace tracking my family back through time. My paternal grandmother's surname was Scott, which I'm pretty sure will eventually find me back on the old homestead around Hawick, Scotland. The Scotts were a famous family from the Borders, the area between Scotland and England, and were renowned as "reivers" (reiving being the romantic name for cattle rustling, theft, blackmail, murder, rape and general pillage). When the cry of "the Scotts are out" echoed around the hills and valleys of the Borders, women cried and men shuddered. Or so they say.

As a word fanatic, I was pleased to learn that some of distant ancestors may have contributed some words to the English language, including "bereft," "bereaved," "blackmail," and "mind-boggling," the latter derived from "bauchling," which meant to hurl insults at someone. Nice additions, aren't they?

91, Actually

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 09:17 -0500

We celebrated a momentous event last week at our house. Xendi turned 13 on the 13th, which makes her, in human years, 91 one years old. Like any elderly lady, she's susceptible to various ailments. In the past two months, we've dealt with an ear infection, a fungal infection, and a UTI. I'm wondering which will cost more this month-the vet bill or the electrical bill. Have I mentioned that it's really hot here?

Xendi also has moments when I'm sure she doesn't recognize us or her present surroundings. I've often caught her staring up at the night sky on the last excursion outdoors before bedtime, as if she's forgotten what she went out to do and is contemplating the existence of parallel universes. I guess at her age she's entitled to ponder these things.

Reading Trails

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 13:59 -0500

I love a book that sends me off on new reading trails. Recently I finished A Covert Affair: Julia Child and Paul Child in the OSS (the forerunner of today's CIA) by Jennet Conant. The title is misleading, as over half the book is devoted to the story of Jane Foster, a co-worker of the Childs in the OSS who was likely a Soviet spy.

Still, Conant's book sent me off on an investigation of the OSS. First I read a biography of "Wild Bill" Donovan, the head of the OSS during WW II. Then I moved on to Sisterhood of Spies: The Women of the OSS, by Elizabeth P. McIntosh, who also served with the Childs in China. There are some fascinating stories of brave women in this book, not the least being the tale of Virginia Hall. Hall was sent to France twice to organize resistance against the German occupation. This would be harrowing enough under any circumstances, but Hall parachuted in despite the fact that she wore a prosthetic leg. She had lost her leg in a snipe-hunting accident in Turkey. I'm not making that up.

Hall called her wooden leg "Cuthbert," and during an escape over the Pyranees mountains, she radioed to London OSS headquarters that she was having difficulty with Cuthbert. Whoever answered the message clearly didn't know of Hall's pet name for her prosthetic, for he replied that if Cuthbert was giving her trouble, "he should be eliminated." Hall did not have to assassinate her leg and she did make it out alive, receiving the nation's second highest military commendation for her efforts.

Now I'm off on a new reading trail, ordering a copy of her biography The Wolves at the Door, by Judith L. Pearson.

AWOL

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 12:21 -0500

I've been neglecting the blog lately, but with good reason. Mom has been dealing with some health issues, and we have spent a lot of time sitting in various doctors' offices and practicing our first aid skills on the resulting incisions and bruises. It's all been rather hard on my 82 year old mother, and we're not finished yet. We're off to the doctor tomorrow for more outpatient surgery.

I've also been forced to set aside India 3 for a bit, until things calm down and I have undivided attention to spare. On a positive note, however, I received galley copies of India Black and the Widow of Windsor last week, and that means the publisher is gearing up to send out review copies in preparation for the October 4th publication date. It's hard to believe that date is less than three months away. Is it just me, or is the earth turning faster these days?

Is It Fall Yet?

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 18:50 -0500

I doubt that I'm the only one thinking that June has suddently morphed into August but, really, it's just too bloody hot for this time of year. I barely had time to finish complaining about the cold, dreary winter before I had to launch right into moaning about the heat index. What with the tornadoes, droughts, floods, fires and earthquakes (not to mention tsunamis and nuclear meltdowns), I'm beginning to think Reverend Camping is on to something.

I've got the AC thermostat at "meat locker" and I'm settled in the den with a stack of books. I'm still reading my way through the John Dickson Carr oeurve (I've always wanted to use that word) and so I've just finished The Burning Court and The Dead Man's Knock. Next up is The Man Who Could Not Shudder. Carr wrote seemingly endless variations of the locked room mystery, but they're all stylishly written, the characters are well defined and never repetitive, and he was quite good at evoking sinister, indeed terrifying, situations for his protagonists. The more I read, the more impressed I am.

Zimbabwe Pictures

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 20:17 -0500

Reading Peter Godwin's The Fear last week kindled memories of Zimbabwe. Here are a few pics from that beautiful country.

A view from the air over the Zambezi valley (and of the airstrip where we'll be landing):

The chalet at Mukanga camp:

A local village:

Rush hour on the Mukanga River:

TC contemplates climbing the hill in the distance:

The view from the Angwa bridge:

What the locals refer to as MMBA - miles and miles of bloody Africa

Pest control in the Zambezi valley - all you need is elephant dung and a match:

Muno makes sadza (white maize porridge) for lunch:

Here in Missouri we have deer crossing signs. In Zimbabwe...

Sunset on the road to camp:

The 21st Century

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:18 -0500

I've been immersed in vintage mysteries for a few weeks, but last week I changed course and read some recently published books. I depressed myself by reading The Fear, an account of the 2008 election in Zimbabwe by Peter Godwin. I've made a few trips to Africa, visiting Zimbabwe three times and falling in love with the place. The country and its people deserve better than President Robert Mugabe and his coterie of thugs. The Fear is a gripping examination of Mugabe's theft of the election, including graphic stories of torture and killing. There are no happy endings here; despite losing the election, Mugabe remains in power (at the age of 87) with a pack of hyenas waiting in the wings. I expect a bloodbath after his death, as the heavies fight it out to see who will get a chance to loot what little remains of the country's mineral wealth.

After that thoroughly devastating book, I needed justice. One of my favorite authors, Kate Atkinson, has just released the latest in her series featuring Jackson Brodie, a brooding private investigator. On perusing the jacket, you wouldn't think that Started Early, Took My Dog would make for uplifting reading, involving as it does abducted and abused children, prostitutes, and nefarious goings on at police headquarters. The author creates rich, real characters in her books and this one features the superb Amazonian ex-policewoman and now security guard Tracy, who in a moment of madness buys a neglected youngster from her drug-addicted prostitute mother. All sorts of mayhem ensues.

Atkinson is too perceptive an observer of the human condition to write a truly happy ending, but her hero always finds a way to tip the balance of Justice's scales so that they favor, if only for a moment, life's victims. And that's about all we can ask of the world, isn't it?

Why I Go To The Gym

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 16:27 -0500

Because TC has been cooking a lot lately. First, there was cheddar/jalapeno bread:

Then there was the Sunday roast:

No wonder I have to put in the miles on the treadmill.

Interesting Book Blogs

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 10:30 -0500

I read a lot of book-related blogs. Some cover the kinds of books I enjoy, primarily mysteries and vintage crime. I'm a committed reader of Les, Bev, John and Yvette.

Other blogs attract me for different reasons. Elaine and Roberta love music and reading in equal measure. One of my favorite blogs features topics I usually avoid: crafts, literary fiction, and cats. However, Lynne has won me over. Maybe it's because she's funny, warm, and so very English. She also has some interesting things to say about the ongoing tussle between professional critics and bloggers. Of course, the downside of reading all these blogs is that I have a TBR mountain I'll never scale. On the other hand, I'll never be caught without a book to read, which is every reader's nightmare.

WEBSITE WORK

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 15:35 -0500

I've been working this week with my web designer to create a new home page for the website. At the moment, the page features the first book. With India 2 coming out in October, I wanted to move the focus of the home page away from individual books and onto something more general. After much debate and some trial and error, I've think we've agreed on a design that will work. I hope to have the new page up by July.

POST HOLIDAY STUFF

Tue, 31 May 2011 16:08 -0500

I hope you all had a lovely holiday weekend, refrained from eating too many hotdogs, and spared a moment to think of those who've sacrificed for the rest of us. My holiday was quiet, which is just how I like them. I made some progress on India 3, watched Saracens beat Leicester for the English provincial rugby title, caught some French Open tennis, and cheered the University of Missouri's softball team into the College World Series.

Reading over that sentence I'm surprised I managed to get any writing done at all, but I did. I even read two books (Georgette Heyer's A Blunt Instrument and John Dickson Carr's The Case of the Constant Suicides, which was a bit of a let down as there were only two deaths, and not a steady stream as the title would indicate). As you can see, I'm on a vintage mystery diet right now.

Speaking of diets, I would suggest that if your trainer asks how you're doing on your diet, that you just lie to the man and save yourself an enormous amount of pain, because You Will Pay if you tell the truth.

A WALK IN THE WOODS

Sun, 29 May 2011 11:08 -0500

A walk in the woods with Bacchus, Xendi and Mya.

I'M SORRY, DAPHNE

Fri, 27 May 2011 13:34 -0500

I just can't seem to get into Rebecca. It's been in my TBR file for years. Occasionally, I'll take it down and look at the cover and read the first page or two and sigh and put it back. I've tried twice in the last two months. The first time, I read a few pages before giving up. A few days ago I made it all the way to the end of chapter three.

For years, TC and I would walk out of art films and I'd ask him how he liked the movie, to which he'd reply: "It was okay, but the car chase went on too long." Then we'd laugh at how shallow and typically American we were, because of course there are no car chases in "The Unbearable Lightness of Being." I'm here to tell you there are no car chases in Rebecca, either. At least I presume that's the case, as I've never made it past chapter three. I remain confident, however, that the day will come when I will pick up the book and become engrossed immediately, reading it straight through without stopping for food, drink or sleep. Until then, it's back on the shelf. I'm sorry, Daphne.

NOTES FROM THE HEARTLAND

Wed, 25 May 2011 16:07 -0500

You know, as in "Tragedy in the Heartland," which is what NBC is choosing to call their coverage of the tornado in Joplin. Within seconds of the next natural disaster or major news event, we'll once again be relegated to "fly-over" country, which is fine with us. Over the past decade, I've become increasingly annoyed at what passes for news programs in this country. I will not bore you with the entire screed, but near the top of the list of things I hate about the media is the need to bestow a title on their coverage, as though a tragedy is a blockbuster television event, complete with spectacular graphics and special effects. I suppose it takes that to pull regular viewers away from the train wrecks happening on reality television.

Everyone is twitchy around here. The weather has been dicey. You can't go anywhere in this city without hearing something about someone's friends or relatives in Joplin. The dogs are agitated. I spent most of last night waiting for the sirens, as we were under a tornado watch until 3:00 a.m. But the sun is shining now and assistance is pouring into Joplin from all around the area. The only good thing to come of this is the affirmation of just how good people can be to other people.

Okay, enough about that. We return soon with book-related stuff.

WEATHER

Sun, 22 May 2011 22:34 -0500

I was planning to do a light, cheerful blog post tomorrow morning but I'm feeling distressed about the tornado that blew through Joplin, Missouri, a few hours ago. Joplin is a mere 70 miles away from home, and it's disturbing to see the first photos of the destruction and hear that there have been 24 confirmed casualties. Living in the Ozarks you expect a few brushes with serious storms during the spring and summer, but it's still shocking when something this catastrophic happens nearby.

Word certainly travels fast. The mention of Joplin reminded me that Langston Hughes had been born there, and I went online to confirm that information. On a whim I visited Wikipedia to read up on the city. Someone has already added a sentence about tonight's tornado.

FEEBLE

Fri, 20 May 2011 16:58 -0500

My blogging has been sporadic lately. I've been trying to come up with something profound and interesting to write about, but I've been forced to acknowledge the fact that I do not live a profound or interesting life at the moment. Consequently, I'll just have to do that stream of consciousness thing.

Lately I've been wondering why I like "Glee." I tivo it each Tuesday (I haven't willingly watched a commercial in twenty years) and if I happen to miss an episode, I'm on the computer the next day catching up with things at William McKinley High. I'm not a fan of Broadway, 80's power ballads, Lady Gaga, Brittany Spears, or Madonna. I think it's Sue. I can't wait to hear her latest insults regarding Will's hair, or Emma's eyes. I'm still laughing at "bush baby" and lemur." And as long as I'm laughing, I'll keep tuning in.

DOG TAILS

Sun, 15 May 2011 11:25 -0500

We were taking our usual constitutional through the woods on Friday when TC noticed a lump on Bacchus's side. It was huge, about the size of my fist, and of course I was sure that my beloved dog had cancer. We spent the day avoiding the topic, and finally got in to see the vet at 4:15. I won't keep you in suspense: it was only a benign fatty tumor that didn't threaten the old boy's health.

I was embarrassed, however, at the behavior of my dogs. We'd also taken in Xendi to have her ears checked (she has an infection) and the two of them together were a humiliating spectacle for their owners. I swear that at one time they were well-trained, and knew how to sit and stay and heel on command. That all goes out the window when we visit the vet.

It's as if we've taken them to Lubyanka prison, and the vet is the chief interrogator for the KGB. They mill around underfoot and scratch at the door and scatter hair everywhere. They whine and whimper so much you'd think the vet was performing surgery without an anesthetic. I was relieved when we got out of there, leaving behind several claw marks on the door and enough hair to knit a sweater (XXL). I needed a restorative gin and tonic when I got home. Damn dogs.

EURO CRIME

Sun, 08 May 2011 18:54 -0500

Euro Crime is a blog dedicated primarily to crime novels from European writers, although they do review American authors from time to time. I was pleased to get a nice review this weekend.

UNBROKEN

Fri, 06 May 2011 16:08 -0500

I went through a period a couple of decades ago when I read everything I could find on World War II. I don't think I've read anything since, until a friend recommended Lauren Hillenbrand's Unbroken. Meet Louis Zamperini, juvenile delinquent, Olympic runner and bombardier in the Pacific Theater during the war. Louie was shot down and survived 47 days in a life raft with sharks trailing him as he and two other men drifted west into Japanese-held territory. They reached land, only to be taken prisoner. Louie spent the rest of the war in a POW camp.

The research is impeccable and Hillenbrand's writing is compelling and vivid. The depiction of camp life is brutal and graphic, but the story is inspiring. It is amazing what the human body and spirit can endure. If you ever feel overwhelmed by what life is throwing at you, read this and feel strong. And Louie? He's in his early 90's now, and available for public speaking engagements.

TIME FLIES

Wed, 04 May 2011 10:35 -0500

Is it Wednesday already? Well, it's been a busy few days, with lots of news to watch, errands to run, and assorted other excuses for not writing a blog post. I thought I'd spend more time writing about the writing experience, but it turns out that writing about writing is rather useless as it takes up time I should be writing, and frankly, it's not very exciting. I mean, I sit down, type a sentence, think about the next one, erase the first one, write two sentences, think "that's crap," erase it all and start over. Sometimes it flows easily, but when that happens it's even less interesting (no angst to share).

I do have one piece of news: watch the Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine's July issue, which my publicist says will contain a "fabulous" review of India Black. That would be a nice birthday present, but being the cautious lawyer type that I am, I'll wait to see how the review turns out before getting excited.

IT'S OVER

Sun, 01 May 2011 21:07 -0500

I confess I was a little snarky about speeding through descriptions of Kate's wedding dress as I am just not that interested in fashion, but even I recognize a stunner when I see it. Her dress was elegant and understated, and there were a few members of the royal family who might benefit from some fashion tips from Kate. Yes, I'm talking to you, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie. I'm still have nightmares about B's hat.

THE ROYAL NUPTIALS

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 11:03 -0500

Will I be watching them? Oh, yes. Nobody does pageantry and pomp like the British. I'm TIVOing the BBC coverage, beginning at 2:30 am tomorrow morning. In between the gym, a doctor's appointment for Mom, and running the dogs to the woods for their walk, I'll watch and listen to the parts that interest me (prancing horses, military units, the music during the service, and arcane royal customs) and speed through the parts that don't (descriptions of Kate's dress, hagiographic depictions of Diana, the homily, and the Archbishop of Canterbury's eyebrows).

JOB DONE

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 18:14 -0500

The new workout/writing schedule is going well, though I had to stop writing for a few days to read through the final version of India Black and the Widow of Windsor. I've just finished that task today and sent my few comments to the editor. I'm glad to be finished. There are two things I detest doing. One of them is proofreading. The other is dusting.

My mental attitude has not been improved by the general gloom and constant rain we've been experiencing over the last few days. We had a short break today (was that the sun? I'm not sure - it's been so long since I've seen it), but we're due for another few days of dismal weather. I would really like this front to make up its mind and go somewhere else. I shouldn't complain as we've escaped the dangerous weather, but it will be nice when this is over. Xendi becomes frantic during thunderstorms, and I had to go to the vet on Friday for a new supply of sedatives. She's spent the last few days in a drugged haze. Lucky dog.

THE PRESENT TENSE

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 15:08 -0500

I was looking forward to reading Louis Bayard's The Black Tower. I have just read The School of Night and loved it, and couldn't wait to see what Bayard did with the historical figure of Eugene Vidocq, the founder of the modern French police and one of the first (if not the first) private detectives. Alas, the book is written in the present tense.

I have an aversion to books written in the present tense. The author may write: "He looks in the mirror. He sees the stubble on his chin." I read: "The author is writing in the present tense. The author is writing in the present tense." It's like watching Tom Cruise in "Valkyrie." When I look at the screen, I don't see Claus Von Stauffenberg; I see Tom Cruise in a Nazi uniform. The present tense and Tom's "superstar" status make it impossible for me to suspend disbelief and be carried away into a world of fantasy. They just intrude.

Perhaps I'll mellow with age, but for the moment The Black Tower is going back on the shelf.

PAPERBACK SWAP

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 07:48 -0500

If you haven't heard of the website Paperback Swap, it's a great clearing house for those interested in exchanging books. I've done a Q & A there today, and the site is also offering an autographed copy of India Black to one winner. Check it out!

DAFFERS

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 15:45 -0500

They do not make 'em like Baroness Park of Monmouth anymore.

WRITING SCHEDULE

Sat, 16 Apr 2011 09:21 -0500

This past week was my first full week of working out, which takes up a significant amount of time. I spend two hours at the gym on Mondays and Thursdays, and 45 minutes the other three days of the week. Then there's the recovery period, when I don't feel like doing much other than getting horizontal and pondering why I'm going through this.

I chose Mondays and Thursdays for my gym visits as those are also the days that I spend with my Mom, running errands and having lunch together. I figured that after all that activity, I wouldn't feel very energetic and writing would be a challenge. Actually, getting out of a chair those days is a challenge. I planned to write the other five days of the week.

So, how'd I do with my new schedule this week? Not great. An editor sent me a debut novel to read and requested a cover comment, if I was so inclined. My editor sent the final version of India 2 for my review. I've managed to write one day this week. I'm not off to a good start, but there's still today and tomorrow left for me to complete my word count, and I'm determined to do it.

PRESSING ON

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 14:54 -0500

It's only Tuesday and already this week is an improvement over last week. Xendi has not seen the white light in the tunnel (and thank you to those who have inquired about her). She seems perfectly normal, with a good appetite. She even wanted to go to the woods today for a walk. She did fine, except when we got home. Then she hurled herself out of the back of the SUV, which made me wince. It's also rather funny, as watching Xendi jump out the back is akin to watching a giant burrito being catapulted from a vehicle. I shouldn't laugh, but I'm going to, as revenge for what that dog put me through last week.

I read a cracking book over the weekend: Louis Bayard's The School of Night. I promptly went out and got his others. I do hope they are as good.

Work is proceeding on India 3. I'll probably finish it sometime this summer and ship it off to my agent to look over before sending it on to the publisher. I'm quite excited about this one, as India's background will gradually be revealed (as will some of French's).

NEGLECT

Sun, 10 Apr 2011 16:55 -0500

I have neglected my blog this week. Here's why. I started working out with a personal trainer this week. I am now acquainted with every muscle in my body, and every single one of them loathes me. I've come home utterly demolished. On Saturday I could barely walk. I'm feeling better today, but oh, I dread the morrow.

Then Xendi had a brush with death. Early in the week, she seemed a little slow, moving stiffly and seeming disoriented. On Thursday, she could hardly stand, couldn't lift her head, and was listless to the point that I wasn't sure she'd last the day. We made an appointment with the vet, but couldn't get in before 3:oo. I spent the day weepy and sad and absolutely sure that we'd have to put down Xendi.

And then we went to the appointment, with me emptying the Kleenex package on the way. We arrived, and Xendi...sprang to life. She could walk. She was alert. Her vital signs were good. It turns out that she had had a seizure (age-related), and that we were seeing the effects, which generally take 12-24 hours to wear off. We took her home, where she promptly headed for the pantry to beg for a treat. I had two martinis and went to bed. Damn dog.

IS IT ME?

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 08:49 -0500

I used to be a dutiful reader. If I started a book, I finished it. This changed, however, when I started practicing law. I had so little time to read that when I did have a book in hand, it had to be one I really wanted to enjoy. If, after 75 pages or so, I hadn't been engaged by the story, I'd stop reading.

All this is by way of explaining why I started three books this weekend and did not get beyond page 80 in any of them. I'd read good things about Noah Boyd and his former FBI agent turned bricklayer protagonist. I made an attempt at the second in the series, Agent X, and found my interest waning rapidly, though I couldn't tell you why. The story starts in a rip-roaring fashion and the dialogue was snappy, but I could not get into it.

Having read several of Eric Ambler's novels lately, I was thrilled to see he'd written his autobiography. I love to read writers' biographies, so I ordered this one from the library. Ambler wrote it after being involved in a near-fatal car accident. I'm not sure why he attempted an autobiography; he clearly had no interest in his subject matter. After 80 pages of laborious descriptions of schoolboy science experiments and living marionettes, I closed the cover. How could Ambler, famous for his tightly-plotted thrillers, have produced such a clunky autobiography?

Finally, I've been reading John Dickson Carr, and was pleased to find a biography of him written by Douglas G. Greene. I googled Greene and found he is (or was, not sure of his current status) a professor of history at ODU and a recognized authority on detective fiction. This book was nominated for an Edgar, but I seem oblivious to its merits. To me, it's the worst kind of academic history; ponderous and analytical, with the first several chapters devoted to lengthy exegesis of Carr's stories written as a teenager and college student. Granted this would be of interest to someone interested in dissecting Carr's development as a writer, but rather off-putting to the general reader. Or is it me? I'll keep this one on the shelf and dip into it again later.

APRIL FIRST

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 12:28 -0500

There is no way I'd post a review dated April 1st, but since this one is from yesterday, I deemed it safe. Besides, it was nice.

I haven't been posting as often as I'd like, due to a number of things that have come up in the past two weeks. Here's a quick update of the important stuff:

I'm 40 pages into India 3, and things are going smoothly. Having taunted fate with that challenge, no doubt I'll develop a serious case of writer's block soon.

While I was dog-sitting Mya a couple of weeks ago, she darted in front of me like a stealth fighter and I took a tumble, injuring my right knee. I've been icing it daily and popping ibuprofen by the handful, but it doesn't seem to be improving. Golf season is here. What am I going to do?

Women's Final Four this weekend. Go Notre Dame! Go A&M!

I bought phlox for the bed in front of the house, after ripping out some ghastly ground cover that had grown wild under the previous owner. There was already some phlox planted and some of it had bloomed, so I collected a blossom and headed for Lowe's. Looked like a perfect match in the store. Got it home and it's clear that it's an entirely different color. Very vexing.

PRETTY SINISTER STUFF

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 15:18 -0500

If you're a lover of crime novels of any type (fairly-clued mysteries, thrillers, hard-boiled) and of vintage mysteries in particular, you should visit John's blog. I don't think there's a mystery author out there he hasn't read. I've found a half-dozen writers to try that I would never have found on my own without one of John's reviews to guide me.

I was pleased when he ventured into this decade and reviewed India Black this week. Thanks, John!

HOW THE PROSTITUTE GOT HER NAME (With apologies to Kipling)

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 09:34 -0500

Rebecca Chastain has started a blog devoted solely to debut authors, and I had the pleasure recently of answering a few questions from her. You can visit her blog here to find out how India got her name. Rebecca is also giving a way a free copy of India, so don't forget to sign up. Thanks, Rebecca, for featuring the Q and A on your blog today.

INDIA'S BULLDOG

Sun, 27 Mar 2011 10:38 -0500

The Victorian underworld was no place for the squeamish. It was violent and chaotic. India, having grown up on the streets, understands the danger, especially for a madam who runs her own brothel. She's armed herself with a handgun.

Obviously, her choice of weapons had to be realistic, true to the time period and readily available then. I chose the Webley Bulldog for her.

It was a five shot revolver with a 2.5 inch barrel and would have been used primarily as a short-range defensive handgun. India's revolver is chambered in the .442 caliber. As this was a black powder cartridge, it wasn't that powerful (probably less powerful than today's .38 Special cartridge, for example). However, when involved in a gunfight, the skill and tenacity of the shooter is often more important than the gun being used, and we know India's got skill and tenacity in spades.

This little beauty was available for sale recently at an auction house.

I can just imagine French thinking this would make a fine present for India, with its ivory grips and nickel plating. I wouldn't mind owning it myself.

WHAT'S FOR BREAKFAST?

Sat, 26 Mar 2011 11:07 -0500

It was a cold and rainy start to the morning. Fortunately TC was up early this morning baking fresh baps and cooking bacon. Add a nice cuppa and it was a perfect way to start the day.

LAST OF THE VINTAGE CRIME REVIEWS

Sat, 26 Mar 2011 09:41 -0500

I've officially read my 16 books for the Take 'em to Trial level at Bev's Vintage Mystery Challenge. Thanks to Bev for hosting this. When I read about the challenge, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to re-read books I read and loved years ago, but had neglected. I did read a couple that had been sitting on the shelf, but I also challenged myself to read books by authors I'd hadn't read before, and oh, the joy of discovering Christianna Brand and H.C. Bailey! Here are my final two entries in the challenge:

A Coffin for Dimitrios (1939), by Eric Ambler.

I read this book decades ago, but it was good to re-visit it. With justification, this is considered one of the classics of the espionage genre. It also was ground breaking at the time it was written, with a modern sensibility that makes it an easy read today. If you remember that John Buchan was turning out spy stories a decade or two before this, you'll appreciate the great leap between The Thirty-Nine Steps or Greenmantle and this book. Ambler's protagonist, Charles Lambert, is a mystery writer, who decides it would be an intriguing intellectual exercise to trace the life of Dimitrios, sometime spy, drug runner and assassin. Bad idea, Charley. Before long, Lambert is in over his head in a world of intrigue and violence. Highly recommended.

The Talleyrand Maxim (1920), by J.S. Fletcher.

Solicitor's clerk Linford Pratt is an ambitious young man. He has brains and an aptitude for hard work, but he lacks opportunity. He finds just that when an elderly client of the firm dies at the office, leaving behind a will he has found in a book. The will presents Pratt with the opportunity he's been seeking, and without hesitation he enters into a scheme of blackmail. The set up for the book comes early, and then we're treated to the discovery and exposure of Pratt's plan. There are twists and turns galore, and though some of them smack of a deus ex machina at work, it's still an enjoyable read. The depiction of Pratt's decline from cool, collected blackmailer to a desperate, hunted man is first rate. As often happens in vintage thrillers, not every character sparkles, but there are plenty of good portraits here. Recommended.

WHAT I'M READING

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 17:57 -0500

I always wonder what authors like to read, so from time to time, I thought I'd share my recent favorites. I just finished The Scent of Jade, by Dee DeTarsio. I wish I'd read it in February, when there was ten inches of snow on the ground, because it's the perfect antidote to seasonal affective disorder. I love the witty, wisecracking (if occasionally hapless) heroine, the exotic locale (Costa Rica), the humor and the suspense. I startled my dogs by laughing out loud, but I couldn't help myself. (Other) writers shouldn't be allowed to write such clever dialogue and hilarious observations about life and love. Beyond the laughs, there's an artful account of how the heroine, Julie Fraser, finds her place in the world. Check out the author's website, too.

THROUGH PROCRASTINATING

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 18:23 -0500

I'm working diligently, and it's surprising how good that feels. Sort of like the endorphin high you get from exercising. The writing has gone well this week, despite a leak in the sprinkler system, the mad dash to buy and plant phlox before Lowe's sold out of the stuff (happened to me last year), and dog-sitting. My friend Judy is away for a week and her 3-year old GSD, Mya, is staying over. The house seems roomy with two people and two shepherds, but add a third dog and we're all claustrophobic. Mya is a good girl, though. She didn't even get upset when Xendi took her pink bunny. Xendi wasn't really interested in keeping the bunny. I think she was just asserting territorial rights. After all, it is her house.

I'LL PROCRASTINATE TOMORROW

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 08:57 -0500

Time for an update on the writing process. It's proceeding glacially. This is due to my agent reviewing my outline for India 3 several days ago and (correctly) pointing out some deficiencies in the first three scenes. Realizing the wisdom of her suggestions, I stopped writing the manuscript and concentrated on making those first scenes into a gripping opening to the book. This should have taken two days. It took seven. I'd like an explanation why some projects which should be simple and quick turn into the Big Dig.

However, that's behind me, and I put in a solid effort yesterday, writing up the first scene of the book. I've got useful material from my earlier efforts which I can recycle for later use, and I feel that I've made a substantial start. Now I must get off the internet and get to work.

FUNNY!

Sun, 20 Mar 2011 12:57 -0500

This review of India made me laugh out loud. Thanks, Minh, for brightening my day and giving India a boost.

WHAT A RIDE

Sat, 19 Mar 2011 09:31 -0500

The blog tour is ending today, and what a ride it's been. Over on the Historical Tapestry Blog, I've done a guest post about my interest in the Victorian Period. That era is very similar to ours, which is why I feel so much at home there.

My thanks to the incomparable Teddy Rose for arranging the tour. I'm grateful to have made the acquaintance of such fine people as Heather, Jules, Christina, Marg, Jenny and Debbie along the way. Thanks to each of you for introducing India to your readers.

NEARING THE END

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 10:52 -0500

...of the blog tour. But before we wrap it up this weekend, visit Marg's site and read her review of India Black. I'm always pleased to hear that India makes people laugh - I think it's the highest compliment I could receive, given the things that are going on these days around the world.

COVER COMPARISON

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 08:35 -0500

A comparison of the two covers.

COVER ART

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 20:53 -0500

The cover for India Black and the Widow of Windsor to be published on October 4, 2011.

THREE IN ONE

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 08:13 -0500

It's "Three in One" Thursday at Julie's blog. First up is her review of India. Next is a guest post in which I discuss whether I'd like to be a spy. I had fun writing this one! And last, but certainly not least, is another chance to win a copy of India Black. Thanks, Julie, for the nice review and the opportunity to visit your blog.

INDIA IS FREE!

Wed, 16 Mar 2011 15:20 -0500

Want your own (free) copy of India? Chris is doing a giveaway on her blog, and you can enter to win. While you're there, you can read about the research I conducted in writing India's story. I never guessed when I started writing it that I'd be worrying about what the well-dressed Cossack guard would be wearing at the Russian embassy in London in 1876.

STILL TOURING

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 08:15 -0500

India is over at Chris's site today for a review. Thanks Chris - it's a lovely review. My thanks also to Teddy at Premier Virtual Author Book Tours for setting up the tour for me. She's done a superb job, and I'll have more information about her services on a later post.

INDIA REJOINS THE TOUR

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 13:11 -0500

It's snowing here, so it's just as well that India has somewhere else to go - over to Debbie's Book Bag, where Debbie gave her a warm review to reduce the chill. Thanks, Deb.

MORE VINTAGE CRIME

Sun, 13 Mar 2011 10:06 -0500

I'm closing in on the finish line of Bev's Vintage Mystery Challenge. I've three reviews (mine are impressions, really, not full-blown reviews) to post today.

A Puzzle in Poison (1939), by Anthony Berkeley

The Queen's Gate Mystery (1927), by Herbert Adams

I read these two books back-to-back, and they made the same general impression on me. Both are fine examples of the genre by acknowledged masters, featuring attractive characters and a moderately interesting mystery. If I had to choose one, I'd opt for A Puzzle in Poison. Narrated by one of the circle of suspects in a poisoning case, it's an interesting study of the dynamics of the group, none of whom can believe that any of the others is capable of murder, yet one of them must be. The Queen's Gate Mystery is more thriller than detective fiction, though a murder is at the heart of the story. Although I was left oddly flat after finishing these and couldn't recommend them with real passion, I will try both authors again. The books were diverting, I stayed engaged throughout the story and the characters were appealing.

The Rasp (1924), by Philip MacDonald

I always get excited when I'm going to read one of the classics of vintage crime, and I was eagerly anticipating this one. Philip MacDonald had a successful career as a writer of crime novels and thrillers, as well as success as a screenwriter. His most famous novel is probably The List of Adrian Messenger. The Rasp introduced the amateur detetective Anthony Gethryn.

There's no other way to put this: the book was a huge disapointment. Here are a few of the reasons I failed to enjoy this one:

The female characters spend every moment weeping, swooning, or fainting. Even for 1924, it was tedious.

Gethryn is described as a former intelligence officer, renowned mathematician, novelist and painter. He is totally unconvincing as such a polymath. If your character is going to be this talented, he'd better demonstrate it somewhere in the story.

One of the clues to the murderer's identity is his correct use of the dative case in the phrase "facilis descensus Averno." I leave it to you-even when educational standards might have been higher than today, is this a fair clue for the average reader?

I figured out the murderer the first time his character was introduced. It was an intuitive leap, but proved correct. If you simply notice who among the group of suspects is never under suspicion, you'll have him.

The book is 278 pages long. The murderer is revealed around p. 235. MacDonald spends the remaining 43 pages pedantically describing how the murder was committed, which, frankly, you can sort of figure out on your own. I might try another, but I'm not enthusiastic at the moment.

ANOTHER SLIGHT DETOUR

Sat, 12 Mar 2011 11:56 -0500

This was supposed to be one of those weeks I accomplished a lot. And how much got done? Not enough. I'm blaming the weather (70 yesterday and again today). It's hard not to putter around outside after our arctic experience this winter.

On the positive side, India garnered a nice review from Linda at Briar Patch Books. That should give me some incentive to stare at the computer.

I'm close to finishing my vintage mystery challenge, and will post some more reviews tomorrow. I finished off the latest Ian Rutledge novel by Charles Todd yesterday. At the moment, I'm reading the Scent of Jade by Dee DeTarsio, which is laugh out loud funny.

DETOUR FROM THE BLOG TOUR

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 18:36 -0500

Just a short one. India returns to the land of her birth where she's reviewed by Carol, who also posed some questions for me to answer. Thanks for the terrific review, Carol. I'm pleased that India passed muster in England. I believe the release date there is March 24th, although it looks as though a few books have been available already at Amazon.co.uk.

GUEST BLOGS AND GIVEAWAYS

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 09:30 -0500

India is still on the road. Today I talk to Heather about India's road to publication, which had quite an unexpected bump in it. Heather's also doing a giveaway of the book, so don't forget to enter.

Jenny's also conducting a giveaway, so enter there as well. What could be better than two choices to win?

STILL TRAVELING

Wed, 09 Mar 2011 08:10 -0500

India's journey continues on Blogapalooza. Today, Jenny follows up her review of India with a guest post, in which I discuss how I chose to deal with some of the very serious social issues of the Victorian era, in a book meant to be a light romp. Tricky!

It's Heather's turn to express an opinion about India, and she was very generous in her review.

Thanks to both Jenny and Heather for showcasing India today. She's enjoying her tour around the blog world.

INDIA ON TOUR

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 08:14 -0500

I'm off on my first blog tour, arranged by the highly efficient Teddy Rose. More about Teddy and her skill at arranging the tour later (I'll just say now that she has done a superb job of putting this together).

First up is Jenny, who has written a very nice review of India, and included a couple of my favorite lines from the book. I'll be doing a guest blog with Jenny in the next couple of days, so stay tuned for that as well. Thank you, Jenny, for giving us your perspective on India and inviting us to visit your blog.

UNDERWAY

Sat, 05 Mar 2011 16:24 -0500

I knocked out the first 1,000 words of India 3 today. It feels good to be writing again, although a little awkward. Sort of like riding a bike after you haven't been on one for a while. Still, I'm underway, and pedaling hard. Some days the words will come easily, and other days I'll make a lot of trips to the refrigerator.

PUBLICATION DATE FOR INDIA 2

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 21:08 -0500

Though it's not official (i.e., the editor hasn't definitely confirmed it), it looks as though India Black and the Widow of Windsor will be published on October 4th of this year. That's a bit earlier than I had anticipated, and I'll be excited to get it out before Christmas. I'll post the cover when I receive the final version.

Today I did my monthly volunteer work at the food bank, which left just enough time to type a rough (and brief) outline of volumes 4-6 of the India Black saga. It seems a bit silly to be doing this when I don't have a contract for #3 yet, but I felt it would be helpful to map out the relationship between India and French, and the revelation of India's background. No hints. We all have to wait together.

FASCINATING STUFF

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 17:24 -0500

Is it March already? The past 10 days have been a blur. I finished reviewing the copyedited version of India Black and the Widow of Windsor and emailed it back to the editor. Typically, I found myself alternating between two states of mind: the "oh, ha, ha, I am the funniest writer in the world", or "this whole section sucks - is it too late to rewrite?" (I don't really think I'm the funniest writer in the world, but I am prone to exaggeration at times, just for effect, you understand).

I'll be doing a blog tour starting March 7th, so you can expect a blizzard of links to reviews, guest blogs and interviews. I'm looking forward to this, as the reviewers suggested some interesting topics. Tune in later to find out if I'd really like to be a spy.

I'm off to work on India 3, and a synopsis of the plot for my agent. This is such a difficult time for me to write: the Six Nations rugby tournament is in full swing (England beat France last Saturday - hooray), it's almost time for March Madness, and hockey season is winding up. Then there are the other NCAA championships I'll find myself watching, despite my vows to limit television. There's baseball, tennis, softball, wrestling and....

INDIA BLACK AND BRIAN KEITH

Sun, 27 Feb 2011 09:35 -0500

Is there a connection? I hope I wasn't channeling Sebastion Cabot when I created French's character. That would be bizarre. Liz remembers the only character on TV named "French." At least, I think I'm right about that. Liz also wrote a nice review of India, although she intuits something I haven't acknowledged yet: I haven't settled on a first name for French. I had one chosen, but when I mentioned it to TC, he made that face that means "What's the matter with you?" Any suggestions?

Thanks for the nice review, Liz.

Liz's Review:

CREEPY, BUT GOOD

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 13:34 -0500

I just finished Richard Hull's The Murder of My Aunt, published in 1935. Hull was really Richard Henry Sampson, an accountant by day and a writer of crime novels by night, featuring interesting narrative technics and criminals. The narrator of this gem of a book is Edward Powell, an aesthete with a taste for French novels, but forced to live with his aunt in the wilds of Wales as he doesn't have a dime to his name.

The first paragraph made me laugh out loud, and I settled in happily for an early version of Assault and Matrimony, by James Anderson. Fifty pages into the book, however, it was clear that this was not going to be a fluffy read. Edward is one seriously disturbed cowboy, losing touch with reality and taking ever greater risks as he tries to bump off his aunt. The ending might have been startling in 1935, but if you've read extensively in the mystery genre, you can probably guess what happens. However, don't let that deter you from reading this novel. Hull's description of Edward's deteriorating sanity is powerful stuff, overlaid with a wicked wit that makes you smile and squirm at the same time.

I must admit to being somewhat unsettled by this book in another way. I am not a fan of sanitizing books from previous eras because they offend modern cultural views in some way. But this one left me feeling a little queasy. Hull portrays Edward as gay, with dollops of stereotypical attributes: he owns a Pekingese named "So-so", adores clothes, considers his male neighbors as impossibly bluff and hearty, has a favorite sweater the color of "crushed strawberries," etc. His aunt and the locals consider him "effete." Some of this can be funny, if handled gently, but by the end of the book, it's clear that Edward's sexual preference is being posited as one reason for his insanity. I couldn't tell if Hull was playing up the stereotype of the hysterical queen for an audience susceptible to that view of homosexuality, or was skewering that same stereotype. (There is at least one other explanation put forth for Edward's craziness). I've thought about it a couple of days, and I'm still not sure. On the whole, I'm inclined to think Hull was too clever a writer to traffic in such a stock character (even back in 1935) without an ulterior motive. I'll need to read more of him to see how he handles other situations and characters.

THE COPYEDITOR'S MEMO

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 15:51 -0500

I am nearly finished with the "Author's Review of the Copyedited Manuscript" of the second India. Once your editor has signed off on your ms, it's passed along to the copyeditors, whose job it is to correct every error in the document. I amused myself today by concocting a memo from my copyeditor to me.

"Dear Ms. Carr:

Please take note of the following:

1. I am glad you have worked out the difference between "farther" and "further" and that you are now using them correctly. Please consult your Strunk and White, and review the distinction between "that" and "which." I am numb from having to correct your usage of these two words in your ms.

2. I sent you a Style Guide for India Black. Apparently, you did not read it. You persist in capitilizing certain nouns, in particular aristocratic titles such as count, marchioness, earl, etc., when you should not. As your latest ms contains approximately 5,000 of these nouns, I have nearly gone blind from correcting your mistakes. I am enclosing a bill for my new reading glasses.

3. I assume you graduated from high school. Consequently, I would further assume that you can perform simple addition and subtraction. If Prince Albert died in 1861 and Queen Victoria was born in 1819 and your book is set in 1876, then the p(note the lower case "p")rince has been dead 16 years and the q(note the lower case "q")ueen is 57."

Of course, I didn't get any such memo, but I wouldn't blame the copyeditor if he/she had sent one. It must get tiresome, correcting the same errors over and over again.

But thank goodness for them. They read with an attention to detail that I cannot muster. And they know their stuff. I've had comments about the date of publication for Oscar Wilde's first play, Prince Albert's cause of death, and whether Samuel Johnson or Shakespeare originated a phrase. I always feel in competent hands with these folks, and appreciate their efforts on my behalf.

SIGNIN'

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 09:20 -0500

Despite chilly temperatures and drizzle that eventually turned into a downpour, I had a terrific time in Kansas City this past Saturday, signing books at I Love a Mystery bookstore. Maggie and Lou put on great events, with coffee and cookies (Milanos, my favorite!) for everyone. It was less like a book signing than a family reunion with all your favorite cousins there. The group was lively, curious, and made me feel right at home. Pictures will be posted soon on the store's Facebook page, which is here.

I can't wait to go back, not just for the warm atmosphere and kind people, but also for the great selection of books. I ended up with half a dozen to take home, including three by an author I haven't read before (thanks, Maggie, for pointing those out to me). If you live in the area, it's worth the drive for the great customer service and comfortable shopping experience.

STYLIN'

Sun, 20 Feb 2011 15:25 -0500

Hey, I've won something, and it's a blogging award.

John over at Pretty Sinister Books very kindly awarded it to me. Thanks, John. Now, I need to mull over the vexing question of where the award should go next. I have met so many new friends in the book blogging world since India's release that it's going to be difficult to single out just a couple.

If you are a fan of vintage crime, drop in and read John's blog. He has been reading and writing about crime fiction for years and has a comprehensive knowledge of the subject. I learn something new from each post. He also buys and sells books, and if you're looking for something obscure, he's your man.

I LOVE A MYSTERY

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 09:02 -0500

I'll be signing copies of India Black this Saturday at 2:00 at I Love a Mystery in Mission, Kansas. The address is 6114 Johnson Drive, and the phone # is 913/432-2583. Here's a link to their website:

I Love A Mystery

I'm looking forward to the event - I love mystery bookstores and will probably miss my own signing because I'm burrowing through the stacks. If you're in the neighborhood, drop by and support your local author and your local bookstore. Hope to see you there.

BEST LAID PLANS

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 17:05 -0500

I had planned to start writing India 3 today, but I opened my email and found the copy-edited version of India 2 ready for my review, with comments due back by March 1st. Some people are capable of handling more than one thing at a time, but I'm no longer included in that group, so India 3 will have to wait until India 2 is finished. Gone are the days when I could negotiate a real estate contract in California, handle a franchise issue in Australia, work on a line of credit with American Express, and then meet with the litigation paralegal to discuss our cases in the southwest region. Yep, that was a typical day in the legal department. I wonder how I used to do it. Well, I know, really. I wasn't crippled by mentalpause then. But now I have to focus very hard, like a baby trying to walk for the first time, in order to accomplish anything. It's sad, actually. How sad? I couldn't remember how to spell "negotiate" just now. I tried it with a "c" and that didn't look right. I debated an "sh," and then I remembered the first "t."

I think I'll have a drink now.

INDIA'S FAMILY

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 09:17 -0500

I spent some time last week working out a fairly elaborate family history for India. I've read a number of reviews and comments about the book on Goodreads and readers' blogs, and it's clear that people who've enjoyed the book want to know more about India's background. I took that as a suggestion that I needed to get busy and create one.

The second book in the series drops a few hints about the past lives of both India and French, but the third (if there is a third) will cover the topic in more detail. When I wrote the first two books in the series, I presented India as I found her (fully formed and raring to go). I hadn't given much thought to her background, except the identity of her mother, and why India has an acquaintance with the finer things of life. To be honest, it hadn't really occurred to me that people would want to know more. But I've gotten the message. India has a past, as does French, and you'll find out all about it, although not in one fell swoop. That wouldn't be fun, would it? Now, we'll wait to see how the first book sells while I put the finishing touches on the Black family tree.

MURDER, MAYHEM AND WITCHCRAFT

Sun, 13 Feb 2011 13:09 -0500

I've made it through ten of the sixteen books I've chosen to read for Bev's Vintage Mystery Challenge. I'm posting up my three remaining reviews today. I'll be finishing up the other half-dozen books over the next 2-3 months, but I plan to start writing India 3 in the next week or so, and my attention will be focused primarily on that. I plan to blog about the process of transforming ideas to the written word, and share the ups and downs of knocking out a first draft. I don't know how well I'll do trying to blog and write, but other people manage. We'll see how it goes. And now, with a decided air of clearing the decks, three reviews:

Trent's Last Case (1913) by E.C. Bentley

This book often makes the list of best mysteries ever written, and with good reason. I find Philip Trent, the amateur detective, one of the most attractive characters of vintage crime. He can be a bit fey and affected, but generally has his feet on the ground and his wits about him. Called in by his newspaper employer to investigate the murder of a powerful American industrialist, Trent identifies the method, motive and murderer a mere two-thirds of the way into the book. Or has he? Disturbed by his findings, he hastens to the Continent where he acts as a war correspondent and resumes his painting career. Months later he returns to London, to find the murderer has escaped justice. Trent determines to learn the truth at last. This surely has to be one of the best denouements in the mystery genre, with two significant plot twists that baffle even Trent's formidable mind. You'll have to read this one to learn why Trent vows to make this his last case.

E.C. Bentley:

The Secret of High Eldersham (1931), by R. Miles Burton

In reading these vintage mysteries, I often wonder how they were received at the time of publication. Perhaps this one raised an eyebrow or two. Burton's novel is more thriller than detective story, involving drug use and witchcraft, with both a police detective and an accomplished amateur cooperating to solve the murder of a pub owner in the village of High Eldersham. From the beginning, Inspector Young has an uneasy feeling about the villagers, isolated from other villages and prone to mingle only with other residents. Strangers who move to the village do not fare well, and usually end up leaving. The mystery is not in identifying the villains; they're rather obvious from the start. The tension lies in catching the baddies and preventing even more nefarious doings. Even at 80 years of age, this one still holds the reader's interest. However, if you want to read a truly unsettling novel about an evil village that does not allow strangers in its midst, try Phil Rickman's "Candlenight," which is a guaranteed page turner.

R. Miles Burton:

A Question of Proof (1935) by Nicholas Blake

This is the first mystery by Blake, which was the pseudonym of Cecil Day Lewis, British Poet Laureate (1968-1972) and the father of Daniel Day Lewis. When the book was written, Day Lewis was a master at a school similar to the one which serves as the setting for "A Question of Proof." An odious boy, detested by the other boys and the masters alike, is found strangled and buried in a haystack. Suspicion quickly falls upon Evans, one of the masters, who rather inconveniently has used the haystack for an assignation with the headmaster's wife. When the headmaster is murdered at a school cricket match, things look black for Evans. Enter Nigel Strangeways, a friend of Evans, who has arrived to save the schoolmaster from hanging. Day Lewis's depiction of the boys is pitch perfect and delightful; the portrait of the masters is also skillfully drawn. The clues are readily available to the readers, although they are so muted as to be almost invisible, and thus the ending may come as a surprise. I'd recommend the book merely for Day Lewis's superb recreation of an English publish school and its inhabitants.

Nicholas Blake:

VALENTINE'S DAY WITH INDIA

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 18:13 -0500

Here is India's take on Valentine's Day (a holiday that the Victorians celebrated by giving lavish cards decorated with every conceivable adornment):

Valentine's Day

Elina from Finland and I did some Q & A. Elina asked what scene in the book was the hardest to write. If you read the Valentine's Day link first, you won't be surprised to find that it's any scene with a romantic theme.

Elina's Q & A

WHY DIDN'T ANYONE TELL ME?

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 20:39 -0500

About Georgette Heyer, Christianna Brand, and Patricia Wentworth. Since I hadn't read these authors before, I thought I'd try them as part of Bev's Vintage Mystery Challenge. I'm so glad I did. Now I can look forward to reading the dozens of books these fine writers produced.

The Benevent Treasure (1953), by Patricia Wentworth.

This is my first Maud Silver mystery by Wentworth (she wrote 32), but it won't be my last. There's a gloomy country house, two eccentric elderly sisters (one of whom may be dangerous), three handsome young men, a lovely orphan who turns out to be an heiress, and, of course, Miss Silver. When Candida Sayles is invited to stay with her great aunts Olivia and Caro Benevent, she is unsettled by what she finds. Are the two aunts the same ladies who suggested a stroll along the beach years before, when Candida nearly died in the incoming tide? Why do the sisters employ the comely Derek as their secretary, when his work consists merely of amusing the old ladies? What happened to Derek's predecessor, who disappeared without a trace? And is there really a Benevent treasure? The plot may be a bit contrived, but there's plenty to like about this novel: elegant writing, a cool and intelligent detective in the character of Miss Silver, and tension that ratchets tighter with each page. Highly recommended.

Green for Danger (1944), by Christianna Brand.

I regret to say that I'd never read a Christianna Brand mystery until I devoured this one. I experienced that thrill of discovery when one runs across a writer of rare quality, and realizes there are at least a dozen more books to be read. Green for Danger is exceptional in so many ways: the plot is perfection, a fair play mystery all the way, with all the clues necessary to solve the murder available to the reader, if only the reader can discriminate between the important clues and the numerous false trails. The characters are well-developed, and each has a plausible motive for murder. The ending contains a shocking double twist. The book is all the more remarkable for having been written during the Blitz, and Brand does an amazing job of depicting life under those strenuous conditions. Highly recommended.

Christianna Brand:

Behold, Here's Poison (1936), by Georgette Heyer

Ah, bliss. Another writer I've never read and now have many hours of pleasure ahead as I work through her mysteries. I confess I chose her deliberately, quite certain that I wouldn't like her at all. When I was young, Heyer's Regency romances were all over the library. I always looked at them a little scornfully, romances not being my thing. If only I'd known what a witty, accomplished writer I was missing.

Behold, Here's Poison is an engaging read, despite the absence of virtually a single likeable character. The Matthews family is, in modern terms, a dysfunctional mess. Gregory Matthews, the head of the family, is murdered, and the list of potential suspects includes every one of his nearest relatives. Matthews was a bitter, domineering man, but no one else in the family is much nicer. Each had a motive for killing him, and the opportunity to do so. Hayer is masterful at revealing character through dialogue. In fact, I'd say that's the strong point of this novel. The detective is not remarkable and the investigation not terribly interesting. I spotted the method of the murder (though not the murderer) fairly early. The narrative pace can be slow. So, would I recommend this one? Absolutely. The dialogue sparkles and the family dynamics are artfully drawn. I had some quibbles with the story, but am willing to overlook them just because the writing is so delightful.

INDIA VISITS FINLAND

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 16:59 -0500

...and meets Elina, who gave her a terrific review. Thanks, Elina (and since you're from Finland, I won't whine about the 2-4 inches of snow expected here this week - you probably get that every day). Stay warm.

Elina's Review:

VINTAGE CRIME

Sat, 05 Feb 2011 10:49 -0500

Our "dusting of snow" turned into another 3-4 inches yesterday. Driving is tricky and it's cold. A perfect day to stay inside, read vintage mysteries, and watch rugby (Scotland vs. France on BBC in just a few minutes!). For those who don't care for rugby, here are three reviews of some of the classics of crime as part of the Vintage Mystery Reading Challenge.

The Bishop's Crime (1941) by H.C. Bailey:

The Bishop's Crime has more than its share of vintage crime novel features: an ancient treasure, a picturesque cathedral town, nefarious goings-on in the clerical community, clues in Greek and Latin contained in a medieval manuscript, plodding police, and an erudite gourmand as the detective who is miles ahead of the coppers. Reggie Fortune, Bailey's detective, finds himself connecting the deaths of two small-time crooks with the activities of an unpopular bishop at the cathedral of Badon. The witnesses are alternately devious or helpful, or occasionally both at the same time. The major characters are exquisitely drawn, arousing and dispelling suspicion simultaneously. Some of the minor characters are jewels. A classic, and classy, vintage mystery. Heartily recommended.

The Daffodil Mystery (1920), by Edgar Wallace.

The premise is promising: the spoiled, petulant son of a retail magnate is found dead in a park, fully dressed but for his vest and jacket, and wearing slippers rather than shoes. Daffodils have been placed across his chest and a mysterious message in Chinese is found nearby. I'm afraid it's all downhill from there. The heroine is too good, the hero too stalwart, and the villains too villainy. There are a number of twists and turns, some breath-taking, and some so far-fetched my eyes rolled of their own volition. Wallace must have written this at a blistering pace, for it's really nothing more than a catchy plotline for what might have been a great mystery. I've never read Wallace before and perhaps I've picked the wrong book with which to begin. I'll read another. After all, there are 159 to choose from. But I couldn't help thinking that cutting the output and improving the quality would have been a better choice. I'd recommend this if you're stuck in a bus station with nothing else to read. During a blizzard. Overnight. In Poland.

Edgar Wallace:

The Red Thumb Mark (1907), by R. Austin Freeman

This novel owes much to Sherlock Holmes. Dr. Thorndyke is a "medico-legal" specialist, which turns out to be a doctor who devotes his time to unraveling scientific aspects of knotty legal cases. He has a medical sidekick, Dr. Jervis, who writes up Thorndyke's cases just as Watson did for Holmes (though Jervis is even more bumbling and inept at deductive reasoning than Watson). And like Watson in The Sign of the Four, Jervis ends up falling for a young lady in this outing. When this novel was written, the science of fingerprints was growing in use, and the police relied heavily upon them as dispositive evidence in criminal cases. Dr. Thorndyke is called upon to prove the innocence of a young man whose thumbprint has been found at a crime scene, which Thorndyke does with ease.

The trial scene is nifty, the character of Mrs. Hornby delightful, and the scientific evidence should please those who like that sort of thing. However, readers should not expect that the guilty party will be brought to justice (though it is apparent who the real thief is quite early in the book). The focus here is on proving the innocence of Thorndyke's client. Even with these faults, I'd recommend the book as a very early example of "forensic" crime analysis.

R. Austin Freeman:

WARM REVIEWS

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 09:57 -0500

Kathy posted her review of India Black even after she found out I only own one purse!

Kathy's Review:

Felicia was kind enough to raise four glasses of wine to India. I'll drink my own at the cocktail hour.

Felicia's Review:

WE GOT THE POWER

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 09:36 -0500

At least for now. Ten inches of snow and seven degrees, but we missed the ice and still have heat and lights. I won't even whine a little bit, because it could have been so much worse. As a result of all that frenzied activity in getting ready for the storm, I'm behind in posting things, but here are a couple of new items.

Kathy and I did a Q & A for her blog (her review of India Black will go up tomorrow).

Kathy's Q & A:

Also, here's a review from Mysterious Reviews:

Review:

TRAPPED

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 09:33 -0500

Saturday night we were told to "expect some winter precipitation" on Tuesday. Sunday the weather boffins said "don't worry about the amount of accumulation, just prepare for a winter storm." By Monday night, we should expect "a possibly historic storm." That means half an inch of ice followed by 2-20 inches of snow. Yes, I know. Not a very precise forecast, so best to get ready for "the big one."

Yesterday was a mad rush: gas for the generator, food, birdseed (for the songbirds - they've become an obsession), a trip to the liquor store for whisky and tonic, and a 5 hour round trip to take my mother to my brother's house, where the storm is expected to be less severe and the power (I hope) will not go out. She could have stayed with me, but the attractions of my house do not include two great-grandbabies. I also made a dash to the vet because Xendi had been throwing up for 24 hours. The good news is that her medication has kicked in and she's feeling better.

It's been a few days since I posted, but I've been focusing on finishing the outline for India 3. I now have a denouement, and most of India's family history resolved. I'll be signing books at I Love a Mystery in Mission, Kansas on February 19th at 2:00, and I'll be doing a mini blog tour in March. More about that later. Time to huddle under a blanket with a good book.

FIVE STARS FROM FREDA

Sat, 29 Jan 2011 08:26 -0500

Freda gave India 5/5 on her rating scale! Thanks, Freda, for the generous reviews.

Freda's Review:

WHO'S IN CONTROL HERE?

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 08:31 -0500

Freda was nice enough to offer a guest blog today. We emailed back and forth about what her readers might be interested in learning about India, and Freda suggested I talk about how India has changed me. Thinking this over, I was surprised to learn how little control I have over India's character. She's taken on a life of her own. Read about how I try to restrain her at Freda's blog.

Freda's Q & A:

VISITING THE PAST

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 08:57 -0500

You would think that, given the opportunity, I'd jump at the chance to visit Victorian era England. Not true! Visit Kate's blog today to find out where and when I'd go if I could travel back in time.

Kate's Q & A:

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 11:35 -0500

RT Book Reviews was kind enough to feature me in the author spotlight section of their ezine. Take a trip over there and learn how India barely survived her first adventure, when my house burned down in the middle of writing the novel.

RT Author Spotlight:

WE HAVE WINNERS!

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 08:50 -0500

India is off to visit Penny and Pam, the winners of autographed copies of India Black. I'll be emailing you ladies directly for mailing information. I hope you enjoy the book. Thanks to everyone who entered.

A MOST EXCELLENT REVIEW

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 08:33 -0500

It's great to run into a reader who loves words as much as I do. You can check out Elizabeth's review of India Black here:

Elizabeth's Review

Tomorrow I'll announce the winners of the autographed copies of India Black. You can enter until midnight tonight (Tuesday, the 25th).

Also tomorrow, I'll be providing a link to RT Reviews Online, which is putting me in the spotlight as one of their debut authors to watch.

SATURDAY'S BOOK SIGNING

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 09:07 -0500

I'm back from Houston (where it was a balmy, and sunny, 60 degrees). There's nothing like palm trees and sunshine to lift the spirits of a midwesterner in January. I also got quite a buzz from my book signing at Murder By The Book on Saturday afternoon. McKenna, Dean and the whole crew did a marvelous job of talking up India Black to their customers, and the result was a full house for my debut book signing.

While it's tempting to think I pulled in all those people myself, I know very well it was the folks at MBTB who did for me what they have done for so many new authors over the years - shared their enthusiasm for the book with the customers and friends they've known for years, and generated a buzz about the novel that I certainly couldn't have achieved on my own. Thanks to everyone at the store for a lovely day and your support and encouragement.

I must thank the people who turned up for the signing. They were terrific - attentive, kind, curious. I couldn't have asked for a nicer group.

Here are a few pictures from the day (and I apologize for their quality - I was standing in front of a window, and it was difficult to get a good shot). Here's me describing how India came to life:

A group shot:

Signing the last books and meeting readers:

If you're not familiar with Murder By The Book, I'd recommend signing up for their e-newsletter, and visiting their website.

SNOWY DAY

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 09:06 -0500

I woke up to snowfall this morning, which is wonderful because I love snow, and this one is delightful: soft, powdery flakes drifting through the air, piling up on the branches of the walnuts and elms I can see through my window. I just hope it stops this afternoon, as predicted, so the snowplows can get to work and the roads will be clear for the drive to the airport tomorrow morning.

Saturday is a big day for me. I'll be doing a signing for the first time, at Murder by the Book in Houston at 2:00 p.m. If you're in the neighborhood, I'd be very glad to meet you. New experiences are exciting to contemplate, and I've been looking forward to this one for several weeks. I'll post an update after the big event.

Next week will be eventful as well. I'll be posting the names of the two winners of autographed copies of India. On the 26th, I'll be the featured debut author on RT Book Reviews online. I'll post a link to the article when it goes up. Until next time...

REVIEW/INTERVIEW

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 08:03 -0500

Listen to some beautiful music and read a nice review of India Black over at Tanzanite's castle:

Tanzanite's Review:

If you're always on the lookout for debut authors, the place to go is the Get Lost in a Story blog, hosted by a group of authors who write in a number of different genres. Today, they were kind enough to post an interview with this debut author.

Get Lost in a Story Interview:

MURDER IN THE GUN ROOM

Sun, 16 Jan 2011 12:21 -0500

I love vintage mysteries, and when I saw Bev's vintage mystery challenge at My Reader's Block, I had to sign up. Well, I have to take the occasional break from writing, and that usually involves reading. I thought I'd use the challenge as a pretext for exposing myself to some authors I'd never read. Today's post is my review (impression, really) of H. Piper Beam's Murder in the Gun Room, written in 1953.

Piper stirs some uncommon ingredients together in this, his only mystery: corporate shenanigans (including a cavalier case of insider trading by his protagonist), a rare pistol collection, a death by gunshot (which may have been suicide), the theory of General Semantics, and a very deliberate murder by bayonet. There's a young widow, a greedy lawyer, a dishonest dealer in antique arms, and a former Marine who writes science fiction stories for the pulps. There are a plethora of suspects, perhaps too many, which leaves little time to develop their characters in this short book.

Piper knew his guns, and it shows. Unfortunately, this is not a good thing. The descriptions of the guns are so detailed and frequent that I think I missed a crucial clue by whizzing through them. There's some excellent '50's tough guy talk: at one point, the hero growls, "it won't be any epidermas off my scrotum."

I tried to dislike this book, but I found myself reluctant to put it down. I'm a sucker for any book that introduces me to arcane knowledge and this one does (even if I did skip large sections on matchlocks and bluing). I'd recommend it as a good example of the genre, but many readers will find their attention straying.

The most interesting thing about the book is that it eerily mirrors the author's own life: he made his living writing science fiction, owned a collection of rare pistols, and committed suicide, a decade after this book was written, with one of his guns.

WHICH CHARACTER WOULD YOU MEET?

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 08:08 -0500

Head over to PK's blog today for an interview with moi. I had a lot of fun answering these questions: PK should interview people for a living. She asked which of my characters I'd like to meet, and what three surprises I'd bring along with me. I love that question! Thanks, PK, for having me over for a visit.

PK's Interview:

LIVING IN THE PAST

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 08:33 -0500

A whopping 3 degrees this morning, and I have lots of errands to do since I haven't been out of the house since last Sunday. But it's been a very productive few days. I've killed two characters from my next book (well, they were just hanging around, cluttering up scenes and not contributing to forward progress of the narrative, so they had to go). My outline nearly doubled in size, and I can envision actually starting to write in just a couple of weeks.

Since I write about the Victorian era, I gave some thought to the question of whether I could live in that period. You can find out the answer here:

Guest Blog with Dollycas:

Kate took some time from her studies to give us her take on India (thanks for the five stars!):

Kate's Review:

And to wrap up, Sarah wrote a review that 's a pleasure to read in and of itself, never mind that it says nice things about India:

Sarah's Review:

Sarah and Lori are doing book giveaways, so be sure to visit their sites to enter.

GOOD STUFF

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 10:42 -0500

It was 5 degrees when I got up this morning. A few hours laters, it's climbed all the way to 9. Good thing I have something to cheer me up. Here's Page's review of India Black (thanks, Page):

One Book at a Time Review:

Lesa also published a guest blog from me. If you're curious as to what I read when I'm writing, you can find out here:

Guest Blog with Lesa:

Thanks to both of you for featuring India on your blogs.

INDIA BLACK GIVEAWAY

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 09:06 -0500

India wants to take a trip, so I'm giving away autographed copies of India Black to two lucky readers. The giveaway is open until midnight on January 25th, and all you have to do is post in the comments section of this blog post. Winners must live in the United States or Canada. On January 26th, I'll do that random selection thing and contact the winners. Good luck!

A GIFT FROM THE NORTH

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 08:40 -0500

Down here in the Ozarks, the only thing we usually receive from Canada is the Arctic Express. There's one coming through just now, dropping our overnight lows into single digits and the wind chill to, well, I don't know how cold it will feel outside because I have no intention of going there. But I got a warm surprise from up north - PK's Review of India Black.

INSPIRATION

Sun, 09 Jan 2011 10:22 -0500

There's a winter storm bearing down on the Ozarks, and in preparation I'm running all the errands I'd normally do on Monday and Tuesday. We may get nothing at all or 8 inches of snow, so it's best to be prepared. I'm looking forward to being stuck in the house for a few days so I can make some significant headway on India 3. But...I need some inspiration. A haka would be just the thing.

Hakas are the traditional dances of the Maoris of New Zealand. They serve as greetings, as celebrations of tribal myths, and as war dances. The New Zealand national rugby team, the All Blacks (so called because of the color of their uniforms), have been performing a haka before each of their matches for over a century now. It's one of the great sporting traditions of the world, with the All Blacks lining up in front of their foe and performing an intimidating ritualistic display. Here they are performing the Kapa O Pango haka prior to a match against South Africa.

THIS IS A FULL DISCLOSURE BLOG

Sat, 08 Jan 2011 08:34 -0500

Bear with me, as I post a few more reviews/interviews/favorable comments. Dear Author posted two reviews - one negative (well, they can't all be good, can they?), and one positive, and then an overall recommendation of the book.

Dear Author

DA Recommendation

Angela James, who many of you will recognize as the Executive Editor at Carina Press (and who gave India a 4 star rating on goodreads), recommended India Black as a 2011 read.

Angela James Recommendation

Vicki Lane (author of the Elizabeth Goodweather series) was kind enough to do a jacket blurb for me, and to feature the book on her blog:

Vicki Lane

And Catherine, at Breaking Pomegranates, designated India as her "Best New Discovery" for 2010:

Catherine

THE MAGICAL MYSTERY BLOG TOUR CONTINUES

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 08:57 -0500

You can check out what I've been reading over at Tanzanite's Shelf:

Tanzanite's Interview

At Confessions and Ramblings of a Muse in the Fog (good title, eh?), I offer some advice for writers:

Muse in the Fog Interview

Next week we'll discuss guns, specifically India's Webley Bulldog revolver, hakas, how many conspirators are necessary to create a really good plot, and other random topics. I've received some nice messages from people who've picked up their copy of India Black and are having a good time in Victorian London at the moment. Glad you're enjoying the book, and thank you for your support.

INSIGHTS INTO INDIA

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 09:35 -0500

I have been conducting my blog tour this week, and am posting a couple of interviews today for your reading pleasure. There will be more to come tomorrow, so stay tuned for new revelations about India.

Head over to Omnimystery Reviews to learn what book I wish I'd written:

Omnimystery Interview

And Mark at D.A. Confidential delves into my writing routine:

Mark's Interview

JUST LET ME ENJOY IT WHILE IT LASTS

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 09:21 -0500

India Black's official publication date was yesterday, though it had been in some stores before then (I have no idea why). In association with this august event, lots of reviews and interviews popped up on the internet yesterday, and since your first book is published only once in your life, I'm going to share a few more of the comments I've received. Come on, indulge me. Soon the excitement will die down and you'll have to read about the cute things my dogs do.

Kirkus Review

Elizabeth at Scandalous Women did a review and an interview for me. Thanks Elizabeth.

Elizabeth's Review/Interview

Lesa very kindly posted a nice review and tweeted about it as well. She'll be doing an interview with me next week.

Lesa's Review

I've received some great reviews and support from the blogging world - it's been a truly wonderful experience.

GUYS DIG INDIA, TOO

Tue, 04 Jan 2011 08:11 -0500

Two men of the world have written lovely reviews of India. Mark is an assistant D.A. in Austin and a former reporter, so he's well-acquainted with the seamy side of life. Check out his review here:

Mark's Review

Jedediah writes a hard-boiled blog. You'll enjoy his take on India:

Jedediah's Review

INTERVIEW AND GUEST BLOG

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 09:38 -0500

Jo has posted an interview with me on her blog, and even better, is giving away a free copy of India Black to one lucky reader. Head on over and find out how I came up with the idea for India's first adventure.

Jo's Interview

LATEST NEWS AND REVIEWS

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 13:53 -0500

This coming week will be eventful. The official publication date for India Black is Tuesday, the 4th. There will be some new reviews posted online and I'll be doing some guest blogs and interviews. So, I should probably catch you up with everything that has happened over the holidays. Some people were industrious and posted nice reviews. What a pleasure it was to read them over my morning tea.

Jo had some terrific things to say on her blog. She'll be doing a guest interview with me tomorrow:

Jo's Review

Carol also had kind words for India:

Carol's Review

India Black shared the honor of being named Carol's Most Memorable Character of 2010, along with Crispin Guest from Jeri Westerson's great series (excellent company to be in). Carol is also doing a giveaway of the book, so be sure and get your name in the hat.

Lori wrote a fantastic review on her blog and I'll be doing a guest blog with her in the next few days:

Lori's Review

Thanks to all these ladies for reviewing the book and sharing their opinions with their readers. I also appreciate the opportunity to do guest blogs and interviews. I strive to make these unique to each blog, so that each guest post contains different information and insights into the world of India Black. Don't miss anything - read them all!

BACK TO REALITY

Sat, 01 Jan 2011 13:40 -0500

It's been a pleasant break, except for yet another root canal (two days after Christmas) and a twisted ankle (suffered when I ran down the stairs in response to a loud crash and some piteous moaning from the garage - TC had been trying to move something very heavy and unwieldy, and it toppled over, smashing him like a bug). At least I have a good supply of pain medication from the endodontist, but it could get ugly around here when we get to the last of the Vicodin.

Apart from these mishaps, it was a nice holiday. I watched about 20 rugby matches and read my way through a lot of books. Christmas dinner was chicken and dumplings and buttermilk pie. Not very traditional, but tasty.

My book has arrived at my local Borders store (but not B & N yet), so I trekked over to see what it looked like on the shelf. Very lonely there, next to Caleb Carr's best sellers, but still a thrill. More reviews have come in (two from men!) and I'll share those in the next few days. In the meantime, I'll leave you with this poor chap.

A BREAK FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Sun, 19 Dec 2010 09:30 -0500

I'm blogging off for a few days, to do the Christmas thing, watch rugby, catch up on some genealogical research (sadly neglected, lately), and read a couple of monster biographies before the end of the year (Michael Korda's new bio of T.E. Lawrence, and the third installment of Theodore Roosevelt's bio by Edmund Morris). This is a great time to read these doorstops. Come January, I'll be busy with the new India, and anxiously watching the sales of the first book. I also find it hard to concentrate on massive historical tomes when I'm writing. I tend to read less taxing books then, particularly mysteries that have nothing to do with the Victorian period. I hope you all have a lovely holiday, spent with family, friends (or books, if you prefer), and I'll be back to talk to you in the New Year.

MORE GIFTS

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 12:02 -0500

The gifts keep coming. This week I've received two more nice reviews, one from Catherine (herself an author) who blogs at "Breaking Pomegranates." Thanks, Catherine, for such a lovely review.

Catherine's Review

The folks at Fresh Fiction were also complimentary. Thanks also for your kind words.

Fresh Fiction Review

And finally, I did my first ever guest blog, on Bev's blog "My Reader's Block."

Guest Blog

My thanks again to the wonderful world of blogging reviewers. May you all have a wonderful holiday.

AN EARLY CHRISTMAS PRESENT

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 13:53 -0500

It started on Monday, when India Black made the Unabridged Chick's Top Ten List for 2010 (Audra got an early peek at the book - January 4th is the publication date).

Audra's Top Ten

Then she followed it up with this terrific review, which gave me such a warm glow, I skipped the coffee this morning.

Audra's Review

I was thrilled to find a great agent, and excited when she found a fantastic editor for India, but I have to say that nothing quite compares to getting feedback from readers. You sit alone in a room, staring at the computer screen, typing away and wondering if anyone will ever want to enter this world you've created. When you find someone who does, and who enjoys the experience - well, it's the best feeling in the world. Thanks for the review, Audra, and thanks especially for sharing India with your readers.

RUGBY VIDEO

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 16:00 -0500

A really exciting try scored by the Llanelli Scarlets (a Welsh rugby club) against Perpignan (a French rugby club).

CROUCH, TOUCH, PAUSE, ENGAGE

Sun, 12 Dec 2010 22:36 -0500

No, these are not instructions for perpetuating the human race (as if any were needed). These are in fact the words of a referee setting the scrum in the superior sport of rugby.

I love rugby, Rugby Union to be exact (not to be confused with Rugby League). I love it so much that I even bought a special sports package from DirecTV at a ridiculous price, just so I could watch it. (There is an additional benefit, however: since I had to buy 50 additional channels to get the one I really wanted, I now get oodles of women's college basketball games, which is my second favorite sport to watch).

I became interested in Rugby when a South African friend of mine suggested that I'd like the sport. I watched the 1995 Rugby World Cup in South Africa (you may remember the recent movie, Invictus, directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Matt Damon, which was about the 1995 World Cup victory by the South African national team- not a very good movie, unfortunately, and the rugby scenes were about as exciting as dust). I won't bore you with a lot of info about how the game is played. I'll just say that it's exhilarating and brutal and honest. There's no dancing around the end zone after a score, or celebrating a dunk by screaming in an opponent's face. That sort of behavior is frowned upon. While soccer is said to be a game for gentlemen played by ruffians, rugby is a game for ruffians played by gentlemen. Here are a few of my favorite players:

Jonny Wilkinson of England:

Pierre Spies of South Africa:

Daniel Carter of New Zealand:

Chris Paterson of Scotland:

Since the European club season is in full swing, I'll probably write more about rugby soon. I recorded 8 games this weekend. Did I mention that I love rugby?

MORE INCENTIVE TO WRITE

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 09:36 -0500

It's a great feeling to read a generous review of your work, like Bev's at My Reader's Block. It gives you much more incentive to stare at the computer screen and plug away at the next volume of India's adventures. Bev has invited me to do a guest blog and she'll be hosting a giveaway of India Black, so you'll want to check her blog for details soon. In the meantime, here's a link to the review:

My Reader's Block Review

I also got a nice write-up at Gumshoe Mystery Review:

Gumshoe Review

I'd like to rest on my laurels, but duty calls. I must get back to the anarchists.

THE PLOT THICKENS

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 16:27 -0500

I've nearly finished the research for a third India Black novel, and I've started the much more painful process of outlining a plot. This involves a lot more work than reading histories of the East End of London and anarchists and taking notes. Most of my day is now spent looking at this view:

I like to work from a detailed outline (the one for the second India Black ran to 20 single-spaced, typewritten pages) which contains a chronological list of scenes, including some dialogue. I start with the major scenes that I want to include in the book, and begin to jot down linking passages between them, noting when I need to include backstory for a character, for example, or creating the minor scenes that are needed to set the stage for a more important scene.

All this means more work before I begin writing, but I've found that it makes the hard task of hammering out the novel easier for me. I'm free to concentrate on the scene at hand, instead of wondering what the devil is going to happen in the next. I know some authors say they can start writing a mystery without any idea who the killer will be, but I can't work that way. I must have an outline. And a to-do list. Yeah, an outline and a list, and then I'm happy.

VINTAGE MYSTERIES

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 09:15 -0500

Readers are always setting goals for themselves. Last year, I read all of Kipling's fiction (I'm saving the poetry for another year). Since October began, I've been working my way through the entire Sherlock Holmes collection. I'm a third of the way through, but I intersperse this with other reading, as I'm afraid the stories would be indistinguishable if I read them all at once. I've enjoyed setting my own challenges, but the other day I was visiting Bev's blog at http://myreadersblock.blogspot.com, and before I knew it, I had signed up for her Vintage Mysteries Challenge.

Since I love vintage mysteries, I've chosen the "Take 'Em To Court" level. Here are the books I'm planning to read:

J.S. Fletcher - The Talleyrand Maxim

R. Austin Freeman - The Red Thumb Mark (1907)

Joseph Conrad - The Secret Agent (1907)

Arthur B. Reeve - The Poisoned Pen (1912)

E.C. Bentley - Trent's Last Case (1913)

Edgar Wallace - The Daffodil Mystery (1920)

H. Beam Piper - Murder in the Gunroom (1953)

H.C. Bailey - The Bishop's Crime (1940)

Miles Burton - The Secret of High Eldersham (1930)

Nicholas Blake - A Question of Proof (1935)

Christianna Brand - Green for Danger (1944)

Leo Bruce - The Case Without a Corpse (1937)

Richard Hull - The Murder of My Aunt

Philip MacDonald - The Rasp (1924)

Patricia Wentworth - The Ivory Dagger (1950)

Apart from Fletcher and Conrad, I haven't read these authors before, so I'm excited to discover some new favorites. This is going to be a fun challenge.

PEN IN HAND

Sun, 28 Nov 2010 16:48 -0500

It's official - I've been invited to my first book signing, and not just at any old bookstore, but at Murder By The Book in Houston, Texas. If you're a mystery lover, you're probably already acquainted with the place. If not, you should know they've been in business for 30 years and have an intensely loyal following among customers and writers. The store was nominated for Bookseller of the Year by Publishers Weekly in 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2010. They host the best writers in the genre. In January alone, Brad Meltzer, Robert Crais, T. Jefferson Parker, John Lescroart and Bill Crider will be there for signings. The owners also lend their (much appreciated) support to newbies like me.

I was thrilled and honored to be invited, and I'll be at the store at 2:00 on January 22, 2011. My thanks to McKenna, Dean and John for making this happen. Here's a link to their website: Murder by the Book

RESEARCH IS THE BEST PART

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 15:43 -0500

This has been an exciting 10 days for me. Reviews are trickling in and they've been very positive. I've also been asked to hold a signing at one of the best mystery bookstores in the country (more about that later, when the details are ironed out). And I have a new great nephew, who popped out a little earlier than expected. (I also had a root canal, I suppose to make sure that the cosmic debits and credits were balanced.)

I'm hard at work on what I consider the best part of writing an historical thriller: the research. I get to delve into all sorts of subjects that take my fancy. For the first India Black adventure, I learned about the rivalry between Benjamin Disraeli and William Gladstone, the Ottoman Empire, and prostitution in the age of Victoria. For the second India Black, I explored the world of fencing, Scottish nationalists, and the queen's rather bizarre personal life.

For India 3, I'm currently spending my time among the Russian, French and Italian anarchists who found shelter in London following the fall of the Paris Commune. They are a fascinating, if somewhat repulsive, group of people. I'd much rather read about them than watch the current news. I saw a t-shirt the other day that perfectly expresses my feelings. "History Buff," it declared. "I'd find you more interesting if you were dead." And now, back to the anarchists.

Music: Volume 1

Sat, 20 Nov 2010 10:15 -0500

I've been listening to Uam, the latest album by Julie Fowlis. Julie is a Scottish Gaelic singer from North Uist in the Hebrides.

The video is from the BBC program the Transatlantic Sessions 3, which brought together numerous accomplished musicians from America, Ireland and Scotland. The musicians playing on the video are: Donal Lunny - bouzouki; Jerry Douglas - dobro; Michael McGoldrick - whistle; Russ Barenberg - guitar; and Jenna Reid - fiddle.

A NICE REVIEW

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 19:01 -0500

I was pretty darned excited to get a 4.5 star review from RT Book Reviews.

INDIA BLACK ★★★★½

by Carol K. Carr

Genre: Mystery, Historical, Mystery/Suspense/Thriller

It's hard to believe that this is a debut novel. Carr makes Victorian London and the rivalry between prime ministers Disraeli and Gladstone come alive with wit and humor. Plus, India, the madam protagonist, is quite funny. Expect to stay up late reading this fascinating and at times hilarious novel of espionage and intrigue; you won't want to put it down.

India Black, the madam of Lotus House brothel, is busily minding her own business when a high-ranking government employee has the bad taste to die in her establishment. Worse, a case he brought into the house with him contained government secrets, and it's now missing. India is forcibly recruited by Her Majesty's government to reclaim the case and its contents before the Russian ambassador smuggles it out of England. Fortunately, she has a lot of people on her side, including Vincent the reeking street urchin and a handsome, enigmatic British spy named French.

Reviewed By: Rhomylly Forbes

RT Book Reviews - India Black

WHY THE VICTORIAN ERA?

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 16:33 -0500

I've been fascinated by this historical period for a long time, and in particular, how certain aspects of Victorian England mirror (at least superficially) the United States and its place in the world today. As in the days of Victoria's reign, there is in America a strong religious element in society, as well as a great divide between rich and poor. Both societies engaged in a vigorous commercial system built upon global trade and capitalist principles. Great Britain had the most powerful military in the world during the Victorian era and the U.S. today holds that distinction. The two societies also share a belief in the superiority of their political, legal, economic and religious systems, and an almost messianic urge to use them for the betterment of other nations. Reading Victorian history can give you great insight into the perils and opportunities facing the U.S. during this (perhaps waning) period of Pax Americana.

The Victorians excelled us in one area, though: their public figures were larger than life, and enthrallingly eccentric (although they were probably a trial to those who had to deal with them on a daily basis). William Gladstone, British prime minister, was a zealous Christian who walked the streets of London at night trying to convert prostitutes, and then returned to his room to record in his diary the terrible temptation he'd felt. After the death of her husband, Prince Albert, the Queen carried a miniature of him. If she saw a rustic view that she thought he would appreciate, she'd whip out the miniature and show the Prince the landscape. It's hard to improve on characters like that. How could I resist the lure of Victoria's England?

DOMAIN NAMES AND DRAG QUEENS

Sat, 13 Nov 2010 11:41 -0500

You could probably write a fascinating pyschological study of how authors choose names for their characters. I chose "India Black" because the name India popped up occasionally among Victorian names, in homage to Great Britain's possession of the rich and exotic land of the same name - the "jewel in the crown" of British possessions, as it was described. I chose the surname "Black" because it was simple, and seemed to go well with the more colorful first name.

So when it came time to choose a domain name for my web page, I naturally wanted to use "India Black." Unfortunately, someone had already registered the name. Mildly irritated at the presumptuousness of someone using my character's name, I checked out the website. It belongs to "the 'Larger than Life', plus-sized diva, India Black" (I'm quoting from the website). By day, HE'S...something, but at night, he dawns sequins, tights, makeup, and some Star-Trek worthy wigs and becomes India Black, chanteuse. Or, as he calls himself, a "glamour technician." You can become one with his permission. Members of his club include Della Licious, Chablis Onassis, and Latrina Bidet (that last one being worthy of its own pyschological study). You can also fund his costumes and wigs, for, as he points out, "it costs a lot to look this cheap."

Well, "India" had clearly occupied the high ground before I arrived, so there was nothing to do but withdraw from the field and use my own name for my website. I doubt that my India would mind. If there's one thing she understands, it's the entertainment industry.

MEMBERS (PART FOUR)

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 14:31 -0500

Meet TC - husband, friend, pack leader, chef, shootist, artist and LL.M. The pack thinks pretty highly of him, as he keeps the gutters clean and the computers running, makes a mean lamb tagine, understands complex tax issues, and maintains situational awareness at all times. He would think this a flattering description. He prefers to think of himself as a misunderstood borderline genius with certain personality defects, a bit like Sir John Soane, who was described to us by a museum guide as "brilliant, irascible and paranoid."

Here is TC in the Zambezi Valley of Zimbabwe, trying to conjure up dessert with a few apples, a bottle of Stoney Ginger Beer (that's "gingah beah") and what looks like a bottle of locally brewed hot sauce. I recall that this culinary experiment did not have a happy ending. However, most of his cuisine is beyond edible, bordering on the addictive.

MEMBERS (PART THREE)

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 08:58 -0500

Mya is an unofficial member of the pack. She's a rescue dog, taken in by my friend Judy a year ago. Mya is three years old, sweet as honey and whip-smart, but prone to seeing zombies everywhere. She must bark at all zombies. It's in her job description. Twice a week she joins us for a walk in the woods. She adores Bacchus, but thinks Xendi is a cranky old cow.

Mya's favorites:

TV Show: Glee. Finn would be a good master: he'd throw the ball for me and feed me stuff I shouldn't eat and let me sleep on the bed.

Treats: Hotdogs and Cheez-Its

Book: Stay

Actor: Koton

Activities: barking, chewing my squeaky toy until Mom screams, stalking the cat

Nicknames: Mya Moore, Myacita, the General

IS YOUR PROSTITUE HEROINE YOUR ALTER EGO?

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 18:30 -0500

Someone asked me that a few weeks ago. Why, yes. Yes she is. India and I share a cynical world view, especially of politics and politicians. We are both pragmatic and concentrate on the bottom line. Neither of us has much patience, and we're too impetuous for our own good. We are not romantics. We are not shocked at the depravity and hypocrisy in the world. And we both have trouble with authority. It's a good thing we're so much alike, because it certainly makes it easy to figure out what India is going to do in any given situation-probably just what I'd do, only she'll do it better and with more style.

THE INSPIRATION FOR INDIA

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 14:02 -0500

In a word, Flashman. I mean the series of novels by George Macdonald Fraser featuring Harry Flashman, anti-hero. If you're familiar with Tom Brown's Schooldays, you'll remember Flashman as the drunken bully who torments Tom. Fraser had the brilliant idea of re-introducing us to Flashman as an adult. He is now a drunken, bigoted, womanizing coward who finds himself participating in various critical moments of Victorian era history. He usually emerges as the hero through an unlikely, and hilarious, course of events.

I had such fun reading these books that I felt inspired to write my own stories, featuring an unconventional heroine. What could be more unconventional than the madam of a brothel? What greater license could there be to flout Victorian views about the proper role of women? India is her own woman, ostracized by polite society but not intimidated by it. She's a woman who bites when threatened, and sometimes before. She refuses to be constrained by the social environment in which she lives, and she's not cynical about reaping its rewards. That's the story of India.

Thank you, Mr. Fraser, for Harry Flashman.

MEMBERS (PART TWO)

Sun, 31 Oct 2010 15:13 -0500

Xendi is the newest member of the pack. We brought her home as a companion for Bacchus after we lost his sister Brinca several years ago. Here’s Xendi when she came to us, at the age of eight.

She wouldn’t let me put up a more recent picture, as she’s gained a bit of weight over the years.When she found out that Bacchus had visited the blog, she insisted on being interviewed as well.

Xendi’s Favorites:

TV Show: Big Cat Diary (I like to bark at those felines)

Color: Sable

Treats: Grilled chicken, sharp cheddar cheese

Book: I’m a dog. I can’t read!

Actor: Rin Tin Tin

Activities: Shedding, eating leaves, watching Mom scrub the floor after I throw up the leaves I ate

Nicknames: Xen-Xen, Xenmeister, Xender, Xenderpest (I concur with Bacchus: humans are stupid!)

MEMBERS OF THE FAMILY...ER, PACK (PART ONE)

Sat, 30 Oct 2010 05:40 -0500

Before we get too deeply into the blog world, I should introduce my family. This is Bacchus, personal bodyguard and cuddle hound.

The old boy is 11 now, his eyes are growing cloudy and his joints are stiff, but to me he will always be the 4-month old pup we took into our lives, all nose, ears and fluffy butt (I thought he’d never grow into any of those features, but he turned out to be a fine specimen). I told him I was featuring him on my blog, and he was gracious enough to respond to a few questions.

Bacchus’s Favorites:

Movie: I Am Legend

Color: Black and Tan

Treats: Pizza crusts, vanilla wafers, and Fiber One cereal with milk

Book: My Dog Tulip, by J.R. Ackerley

Actor: Bullet (Who? Roy Rogers’s dog, of course)

Activities: Sunning on the porch, walking in the woods

Nicknames: Boo, Boo Boo, Bubby, Bubster, Booster Boo, Bobo Doggins (aren’t humans stupid?)

THE NOVICE BLOGGER

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 09:01 -0500

As a soon to be published author, I created a website and blog in order to promote my new book (India Black, a romp through Victorian England featuring my unconventional heroine, the madam of a brothel, being published January 4, 2011, by Berkley Press as part of its “Prime Crime” series). Lots of authors have blogs. The interesting ones have stuff on their blogs about book signings and award ceremonies they’ll be attending, and announcing the publication of their thirty-second book. I won’t have any of that. What the deuce (as India would say) am I going to write about?

I started thinking of the blogs I follow religiously. They cover wildly different subjects, but all of them have one thing in common – they are written by people who revel in the beauty of everyday life, whether it’s a good meal, the first wood fire of the winter, a great book, or the company of their dogs. They read widely and have opinions about things, but they also have good manners and always remind you that those are just their opinions and yours may differ and will be respected. They’re snarky about things that, in my view, deserve snarkiness – politicians, reality television, corporate greed, and situational ethics. In other words they are my kind of people, and they inspire me.

Thus I write this blog, not just to connect with readers of my book (warning - plug alert: you can pre-order it now on Amazon, B & N, and Borders), but with other like-minded people. So if you are one of those people who enjoy reading, writing, and the value of a well-lived life, I hope you’ll stop in again, and start up a conversation with me.

Second Book in the Series

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 15:35 -0500

The second book featuring India Black will be published in 2012.

Publication Date

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 16:17 -0500

India Black will be published by Berkley Publishing Group on January 4, 2011. You can pre-order a copy now at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Borders.