Sunday, November 11, 2012

Scene of the Crime with Author Erika Chase!



Not long ago I read A Killer Read, the first in the Ashton Corners Book Club mysteries (and several of you who left comments couldn't believe I'd never eaten cheese straws). After being introduced to Lizzie Turner, a reading specialist with the Ashton Corners, Alabama, school board, all I can say is that I'm looking forward to next month's release of Read and Buried!

Erika Chase AKA Linda Wiken
Although Erika (in a parallel universe she's known as Linda Wiken) now spends her time creating and writing crimes for her intrepid heroine to solve, she's also a former mystery bookstore owner, so she knows all about selling them, too. Here are a few links for you just in case you'd like to learn more about this talented writer:



If this bounty of links isn't enough for you, she can also be found blogging on Mystery Mavens Canada and Killer Characters! Now that I've gotten all that sleuthing out of the way, it's time for the interview!


What was the very first book you remember reading and loving? What makes that book so special?

Pippi Longstocking -- I thoroughly enjoyed Pippi and all her antics. I think I was in awe of her ability to get her way so much and really con the adults in her life. Never tried it, though. She was also, always cheerful.


Outside of your writing and all associated commitments, what do you like to do in your free time?

Singing!  I love choral singing and am a member of two choirs -- one a community choir and the other, a church choir.





If I were to visit your hometown, where would you recommend that I go? (I like seeing and doing things that aren't in all the guide books.)

Oscar Peterson statue by artist Ruth Abernethy
I live in Ottawa, Ontario -- Canada's capital, and as such, there's so much to see and most of it is in the guide books. But I'd really suggest a stroll outside the National Arts Centre, right downtown on the Rideau Canal. 

Along the way, you'll see a massive, life-sized bronze sculpture of our most renowned jazz pianist, Oscar Peterson, at his grand piano, right on the sidewalk. Be sure to sit beside Oscar and have your photo taken. You'll also be able to enjoy his music playing in the background! (maybe this missed the guide books!)


You have total control over casting a movie based on your life. Which actor would you cast as you?

Helen Mirren
Helen Mirren, mainly because I greatly admire her!  She's strong, versatile, elegant, and witty -- all characteristics I'd like to acquire.


Who is your favorite recurring character in crime fiction?

Oh, boy...this is a tough one. I enjoy so many, and often it's dependent on my frame of mind. So, at this point in the day, I'd say Andy Carpenter in the fun-loving mystery series by David Rosenfelt. If you love dogs, you'll definitely love this series. If you love laughing out loud, this will do it for you. I've been a fan for years.


If you could have in your possession one signed first edition of any book in the world, which book would that be? Why that particular book?

First edition cover
Cover Her Face by P.D. James. That was the start of an amazing writing career. Baroness James is truly to be admired and I'm a great fan of all she writes.


How did you celebrate when you first heard you were to be published? What did you do the first time you saw one of your books on a shelf in a bookstore?

When I first heard, I immediately phoned my close friend, mystery writer Mary Jane Maffini and screamed in her ear. That was followed by sharing a bottle of champagne with my critiquing group, The Ladies' Killing Circle.  When I saw it on the bookshelf, I took many pictures from various angles and sported the silliest, widest grin in the store.


Name one thing on your Bucket List.

Typical European Christmas market
A Christmas markets cruise along the Danube River, from Prague to Vienna! A dream holiday.

[Check your baggage... I might be a stowaway!]







You've just received a $100 gift card to the bookstore of your choice. Which bookstore are you making a bee-line for?

Hatchard's
Hatchard's in London, England -- one of the most elegant bookstores I've had the pleasure of shopping in. It's the oldest, too. Of course, I'd have to figure out how to get there first.


~~~~~~~~~~~

Thank you so much for spending this time with us, Linda. It was a pleasure getting to know you a little better.

May your book sales do nothing but increase!


AVAILABLE DECEMBER 4!
ON SALE NOW!

6 comments:

  1. I loved 'A Killer Read' as well and can't wait until the next one comes out. Great author interview.

    Kimberlee
    http://girllostinabook.blogspot.com

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    1. Thanks, Kimberlee. Have a great week! (We always seem to meet here on Sunday night/Monday morning.) :-D

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  2. I'm not much of a cozy reader, but I read A KILLER READ before sharing a panel with Erika at Bouchecon and thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a please to get to meet her and share insights with readers about how our stories are put together. Anyone who has a chance to hear her speak would be well advised to do so.

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    1. One of these days I vow to attend a Bouchercon. Thanks so much for stopping by, Dana!

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  3. Oh Ottawa is a nice place! Love the Rideau Canal! cheers. http://www.thecuecard.com/

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    1. From the research I've done, I know I certainly wouldn't mind visiting there!

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