Nicole Asselin, author of MURDER AT FIRST PITCH, answers our questions about her first book and her journey to its release.
How would you describe the plot of the book?
So, my book is a love letter to the sport of baseball, and a love letter to the art of murder. Wait, that sounds weird. To the art of mystery. There, that’s better.
The story follows a thirtysomething young woman who begins work at her family owned Independent League Baseball team, the Abington Armadillos (which, in the book you’ll find out the reason for the name). On one of her first days back at the park, she stumbles upon a body in the dugout. Of course, shenanigans abound, and her brother is considered the main suspect. She begins to investigate to clear her brother’s name and clear the family baseball team of suspicion.
What was the a-ha moment that made you write this story?
I was at Malice Domestic as a fan several years ago with my Dad and we got talking to Shelly Dickson Carr (fellow Bostonian) before panels one morning. She asked what I would write if I could write about anything. Immediately, I thought of a mystery surrounding baseball and my favorite team, the Red Sox. Well, I didn’t necessarily want to murder anyone at Fenway Park, so I put on my creative hat and came up with a team on my own. It’s a little bit of wish fulfillment, because who wouldn’t love to work for a baseball team in a small town.
Who is your favorite character and why?
Madeline Boucher. I mean, lets be honest, I modeled her sort of on myself. I identify with the fact that she is fiercely loyal to her family and loves her baseball team as well. Even after experiencing setbacks, she doesn’t let it bring her down.
Also, I do love the character of Eliza. She’s based on one of my old co-workers who was a tough as nails lady but with a heart of gold. She’s fun to write, especially with her heavy Boston accent!
What meal and drink do you think would pair well with your book?
Hot Dogs, a soda, and maybe even some cracker jacks. And, if you’re so inclined, a nice $13 dollar beer from the ballpark.
Were there indispensable people without whom you couldn’t have written the book?
My publisher is a big part of why this book is getting published obviously. Zara Kramer has been supportive from the jump and goes out of her way to make sure all her authors feel loved and supportive. The entire Panda team has been great, and my editor especially, Jess Reino (now an agent in her own right!) helped hone the story to what it is today.
My parents who believe in me whole heartedly. They are my biggest supporters and have been marketing this book probably better than I have! The Sisters in Crime (NE) have supported me and guided me in so many ways and provided a comfortable space to ask questions. They are great, and I don’t think this book would’ve gotten nearly as far if I didn’t have that group with me.
Nicole graduated from Curry College in Milton Mass with a degree in English/Creative Writing. Now working in just outside of Boston as a Technical Writer, she lives on the South Shore of Massachusetts. Nicole is a member of Sisters in Crime (National and New England) and the Mystery Writers of America and is on the Board for the NE branches of both groups as Social Media Liaison.