One of the lovely things that happen to authors is that we often write more than one series. The tricky part is that while you’re writing the first draft of a new book, you’ll also be promoting the last book and preparing a proposal for the next book. It can feel a bit like you’re on one of those little merry-go-rounds at the children’s playground. So, I’m feeling a bit dizzy, and yet this is precisely what I want to do as long as I can hold on.
Right now, I’m in the final revision phase of Reflection of Malice (Webb’s Glass Shop Book #7). A decision I had to make at the beginning was when does this story happen. The books in this series are roughly a month apart, with Book #7 taking place near the end of the year with a wedding during the Christmas break. Well, due to the COVID restrictions here in St. Petersburg, this would be either a tiny ceremony with less than eight, or it would be broadcast on Zoom.
Neither of those felt fun to me, and I desperately need to have fun while writing a book. So, I decided that this story takes place in December of 2019. Way back before we even knew that our world was about to turn upside down and sideways. Then after that, I can perhaps address the Pandemic in the next book in the series.
How much of the Pandemic are you willing to read about? It is a full-blown expose, or only how it affects the characters’ lives, just a little bit, or absolutely no references to the Pandemic.
If you’re looking for a Florida read, my Webb’s Glass Shop Mysteries are all set in St. Petersburg. Independent bookstores need your help during this challenging time. Buy Local.
