What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Murder in Third Position: On Pointe Mystery #3?
Murder in Third Position was inspired by my own experiences as a dancer. All of the details about a ballerina’s life are real, but the story is definitely a work of fiction. The main character, Leah Siderova, is drawn into a complex web of secret betrayals and deadly rivalries, and the only thing she knows for sure is that the killer is someone close to her.
The underlying story is more universal. It’s about trust and loyalty, friends and lovers.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Murder in Third Position: On Pointe Mystery #3, what would they be?
My characters would be singing along with whatever Stephanie Plum, or Agatha Raisin, or Miss Marple were listening to. There’s a lot of humor in Murder in Third Position. Think of it as Janet Evanovich meets Tiny Pretty Things. Funny but intense And definitely danceable.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I do love all kinds of mysteries, from traditional British whodunnits to thrillers and locked room puzzles. Having said that, as a former English teacher, I’m just as likely to be found keeping company with Jane Austen for laughs and Thomas Hardy for tears.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
Several of my favorite writers have new releases, including: The Counterfeit Wife, by Mally Becker How to Kill a Kingpin, by Gabrielle St. George Aria for Murder, by Erica Miner, and there are two others that will be published shortly: Never Let Go, by Lori Duffy Foster With a Twist: Murder on the Rocks Mystery #4, by Cathi Stoler.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
I loved writing about the party that takes place in Chapters Ten and Eleven. It pokes fun at the New York City art scene, where models, dancers, filmmakers, and galleristas mingle with the moneyed people who support them. It’s also central to the plot.
Without giving anything away, a host of clues are embedded in the descriptions and the dialogue. It was a tricky—and very satisfying—part of the novel to write. And it ends with a bang.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I like to read aloud while I’m writing, and I’ve been known to talk to my characters. And yes, they do talk back! Also: I’m not sure if drinking gallons of coffee qualifies as quirky, but I definitely run on caffeine, preferably in my Chapter One mug
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
I’m going with persistence as a way of life, and Winston Churchill for the quotation: If you’re going through hell, keep going.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
I’m going to answer this question as my main character would: There’s more to me than how I look.
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