Writing Crime

Arlene Kay combines therapy dogs and Oscar Wilde in her newest mystery, MURDER AT THE FALLS. She tells us more about the book today.
 
How would you describe the plot of your book?

Leathersmith Perri Morgan brings her therapy dogs to an upscale assisted living spot called The Falls. To her chagrin, she finds that instead of mixing with a congenial group of elders, she is once again  confronting  danger and murder. Magdalen Melmoth, a spunky octogenarian, claims to be the grand-daughter of the famous Oscar Wilde. She also contends that an undiscovered manuscript exists, the sequel to Wilde’s only novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray. Perri and hotshot DC journalist Wing Pruett pledge to help Magdalen claim her family’s legacy. When a nurse is murdered  with poisoned chocolates meant for Magdalen, the noose tightens. The sleuths match wits with a clever killer who just might be Magdalen herself.

Writers usually hate writing book summaries. Will you share with us your real book blurb or one you wish you could have used?

A cozy mystery with a literary twist.

What excited you most about writing this story?

Exploring the “what if” component of Wilde’s life and speculating about what might have been.

Who is your favorite character and why?

Magdalen Melmoth—Such fun writing a spunky, intelligent lady who defies all stereotypes of old age. Mags is computer literate, tough as nails, and determined to achieve her goals at all costs.

What was the most interesting thing you learned writing this book?

Wilde did flee to France after his incarceration, and adopt the name Sebastian Melmoth. Maybe Magdalen is on the right track.

After her days as a Senior Executive with one of those Alphabet govt. agencies, Arlene Kay redirected her energy to plotting fiendish murders laced with snarky dialogue and humorous asides. She is the published author of -ten mystery novels including the Creature Comfort Series from Kensington Publishing. Like all good mystery writers, Arlene firmly believes that there are no natural deaths, and everyone is a suspect. Check out her website, ArleneKay.com.