What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write this book?
Having lived in Hunt Country, Virginia, for over 20 years, I’ve been captivated by its beauty and the unique nature of its culture, history, and traditions. Seeing billionaire equestrian estates sitting alongside the humble cottages of farm workers and grooms creates a fascinating social landscape. After years of attending polo matches and point-to-point races, I realized that if Midsomer Murders were set in the United States, it would surely be right here. I wanted to write stories that wove together the richness of this equestrian setting with fascinating characters and challenging mysteries.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of your book, what would they be?
Grady Gallagher, a wisecracking humor columnist: “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers.
Viscount Sinjin Ravenshire, a British colonel and interrogator: “Iron” by Woodkid.
Elena Verity, a 28-year-old competitive rider: “Unstoppable” by Sia.
What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
My heart belongs to the amateur sleuth mystery, both as a reader and an author. I believe this subgenre provides a richer canvas for storytelling than police procedurals or private eye novels. By stepping outside the boundaries of official investigations, I have the freedom to build more complex characters and develop plots that keep readers guessing until the very last page.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
I just finished Outfoxed by Rita Mae Brown and loved it for her skill in immersing the reader in the lives of the riders, horses, hounds, and even the foxes that populate Hunt Country while delivering a mystery that kept me guessing. I’m currently reading The Bullet That Missed by The Bullet That Missed. His books are always satisfying. For a change of pace from mysteries, I’ve been reading The Green Bone Saga by Jade City.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
The very first scene in the book, when Grady Gallagher, who often thinks as if he\'s writing one of his humor columns, is ruminating on his love/hate relationship with the British before meeting Viscount Sinjin Ravenshire for the first time. His snarky take on life and his refusal to take himself or anyone else seriously contrast well with the suspense and danger of the story to come.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
Balancing my “real job” as a freelance content writer alongside my passion for writing mysteries usually means that I have to carve out time to work on my novels. I tend to be very focused when I write, and I commit myself to writing 900 words a day. However, sometimes when writer’s block rears its ugly head, I’ve been known to hang upside down on an inversion table to force some blood back into my noggin.
Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?
“No matter where you go, there you are.” — Ram Dass
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
With all its chances and challenges, life is a wonderful ride. If you fall off, pick yourself up and get right back on the horse. The only time you fail is when you stop trying.
