As you know, the protagonist in the Ned McNeil full moon mysteries is interested in old houses and even joined a group in town called the Old Houses Club. A lovely old house in South Carolina was fascinating enough to include it in my book. I changed it a bit and didn’t mention its name. A murder happens at the most fabulous old house within three counties and, of course, Ned is right there. Why is it any of her business? Well, you see, the murdered woman told her a secret and Ned feels duty bound to investigate.
Ned even gets to ride a horse in this latest cozy. She hasn’t forgotten how it’s done although it has been years since she sat in saddle leather. And, she discovers an astounding fact about her family.
Just as builders use wood or bricks to build a house, I use words to build a story and sometimes finding just the right word is like trying to find just the right house plan. It’s excruciating but fascinating. I am drawn to it like a–like a moth to a flame. No, wait a minute. That’s part of an old country song, isn’t it?
So, on I go, finding inspiration here, a pattern there, a mystery somewhere else, and a story begins to take shape. When I’m finished, there it is–a completed cozy mystery and I can feel a sense of accomplishment. But, until that final sentence, I’m putting it together, word by word, shining, polishing, making the pieces fit. The killer is brought to justice, the past is smoothed out, and Ned looks forward to her next adventure.
Manos Mysteries
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