What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Lies Lost and Found?
Lies Lost and Found is the second book in the Lake Amelia Mystery series (Family Ties, Family Lies is Book One). I hadn’t intended to write a series, but as I was driving one day, thinking about what to write next, the first chapter of Lies Lost and Found played out in my mind. I visualized the entire scene. I realized Rose Webster, my protagonist, was telling me she had more to say, and so I listened. The first big reveal, as I began outlining the book, was Rose discovering her father may not have died of a heart attack. The suspicion fell on an unscrupulous businessman suspected of exploiting immigrants. I followed the story my characters told me.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
My favorite genre to read is mysteries, and that’s probably why I like to write them. But my stories are a mashup of mysteries and women’s fiction. I like a main character who’s facing challenges in her life, overcoming obstacles, and, in Lies Lost and Found, bringing attention to an important social issue—in this case, the exploitation of immigrants. Sometimes I gravitate to political thrillers. I also like to read historical fiction. And sometimes sci-fi. Mostly, I just want to read a good story.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
Appointment with Death – Agatha Christie, Atmosphere – Taylor Jenkins Reid, and The First Gentleman – Bill Clinton and James Patterson.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
Chapter Twenty-Seven. Rose’s mentor from high school, the editor of the Lake Amelia Dispatch, assigns her to take photos at a picking party in Argyle. I actually drafted this chapter before I even outlined the book, because I had the idea and I loved the way it played out. I probably should have turned it into a reader magnet or short story. Maybe I still will!
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I love music, but not when I’m writing. I don’t like noisy distractions. I like to hear the characters talking and telling me what’s next. That’s as quirky as I get.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
I think we are all here to help walk each other home, and that we are meant to do that with kindness and love.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
To treat each other fairly and with respect. Most of our ancestors came to this country as immigrants. Most of us are trying to get by the best we can.
Sign up for our email and we’ll send you the best new books in your favorite genres weekly.