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Behind the Writing of An Old Fashion Murder

Tell us about the background for the theme, what inspired it or why you wanted to write in this setting, or with play with these tropes?

I was a professor for over 30 years. It seemed like a setting that was perfect for mysteries.

Are any of your characters based on real people you know?

Not really. Most are just a combination of people I knew over my career.

Tell us about character traits that were fun or hard for you to include in the book.

I enjoy Jane Kincaid as a character. She is basically a thorn in everyone’s side.

Create a playlist with 5 to 10 songs with the below in mind:

• Old Fashioned (Bruno Mars)
• You’re So Vain (Carly Simon)
• Poison (Bel Biv DeVoe)
• Dirty Little Secret (All-American Rejects)
• Suspicious Minds (Elvis Presley)
• Jealousy (natalie Merchant)
• One Way or Another (Blondie)
• Realize (Colbie Caillat)

Were there any alternate endings you considered?

I always knew that William killed Matt because he thought Matt was having an affair with Cole. I decided late to make that suspicion false.

Which scene, character or plotline changed the most from first draft to published book?

Cole

Which of the side characters would you love to explore more, or turn into a main character in another series?

Maybe Jane Kincaid

What special knowledge or research was required to write this book?

The inner workings of a college campus; an understanding of poisons

Was there something major that happened in your personal life while writing this?

I retired. 🙂

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Synopsis:

When a faculty reception at Northport College ends with a prominent professor’s sudden death, Elise St. James never expects to become involved in the investigation. But as the college’s director of communications—and a firsthand witness to the evening’s events—she quickly realizes that what happened on campus that night was no accident.

As whispers spread across the tight-knit college community, Elise begins to notice details others overlook: a bitter divorce, simmering professional rivalries, ambitious students, a bartender with secrets, and a drink that may have held more than good cheer.

But asking questions on a small campus can be dangerous. As the truth edges closer, Elise must decide how far she’s willing to go for answers—before someone decides she knows too much.

An Old Fashioned Murder is a cozy mystery filled with academic intrigue, sharp dialogue, loyal friendships, and just a hint of romance—perfect for readers who enjoy smart sleuths, charming settings, and puzzles best solved with a cocktail in hand.

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