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Writing Isn’t All I Do

Besides my Celtic murder mystery, poetry, and my book of short stories, I’ve managed over the last 40+ years to stay busy creating art. Actually, I’ve been doing some sort of art since I was old enough to hold a crayon but that’s too many years ago now for me to even think about.

It’s been a time-consuming challenge, but I’ve finally opened my online storefront to showcase selected pieces of my artwork on various items including mugs, notebooks, drinkware, clothing, and notebooks, just to name a few. And, since we are nearing the Autumn holidays of Halloween, Day of the Dead, and Día de los Muertos, I would be remiss not to mention many of my motifs concerning these holidays are available for purchase. Come by and take a look.

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“Track of the Cat” by Nevada Barr

 

“Track of the Cat” by Nevada Barr is a mystery story set against the high-country trails of the Guadalupe Mountains of West Texas, where the age-old battle of man against nature is fought with a frightening twist. It’s the first novel in her Anna Pigeon series, which revolves around the adventures of a National Park Service ranger named Anna Pigeon. In “Track of the Cat,” Anna is stationed at the fictional West Texas’s Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Barr, having been a park ranger herself, offers readers an authentic portrayal of the national parks, the beauty and peril of the wild, and the unique challenges and experiences faced by those who work there.

In “Track of the Cat”, readers are introduced to Anna Pigeon, a ranger stationed at the lesser-known Guadalupe Mountains National Park. The mystery unfurls with the grim discovery of a ranger’s body, the immediate cause of death believed to be a cougar attack. However, Anna’s intuition and her love for the wild creatures of the park make her question this theory. As more bodies turn up, her conviction strengthens, and she finds herself ensnared in a deepening web of intrigue.

I’ve spent some time in the West Texas desert when I lived in San Angelo and then in Abilene, so one of the novel’s strong points for me is its setting. Barr, a former park ranger herself, vividly captures the desolate beauty of the West Texas desert, so much so that readers can almost feel the scorching heat and the rugged rocks beneath their feet. She crafts a realm where the beauty of nature contrasts sharply with the underlying threat of a murderer on the loose. Anna’s treks into the park’s backcountry sound inviting despite the lack of water sources, speaking to the allure of the untouched wilderness.

Nevada Barr’s protagonist, Anna Pigeon, is a well-developed character with depth and complexity. Her background as a widow escaping her past in New York, a distant relationship with her psychiatrist sister that allows for introspective moments, and her struggle with alcoholism, paint a portrait of a woman who is at once tough and vulnerable. Her worldly cynicism is tempered by her deep appreciation for nature. However, her near-superhero escapades towards the story’s climax may stretch believability for some readers but for me, it made suspenseful reading.

The plot, tension-filled, is interlaced with intricate park politics, infighting among rangers, and age-old disputes between ranchers and conservationists. The stakes rise when it becomes clear that condemning a cougar for the murders could have devastating environmental and political consequences. Anna’s tenacity in uncovering the truth leads her on a treacherous path, putting her squarely in the crosshairs of a killer. The ending, while unexpected and generally satisfying, leaves readers with a few unresolved threads and potential missteps in the realm of the mystery writers’ code.

Reading “Track of the Cat” feels like shadowing Anna through the sunbaked canyons and peaks, sensing the imminent danger posed by both nature and man. Anna’s sleuthing skills are excellent, with her logic and intuition guiding her through the twisted trails of the investigation. It is a Southwestern mystery that showcases Nevada Barr’s talent both as a mystery writer and a natural storyteller. Her authentic depiction of park ranger life and the intricacies of human-nature relationships is engaging. It’s no surprise she clinched the Agatha Award for best first mystery with this offering. Anna’s journey alongside the reader, working to decipher the crime, makes for a thrilling experience and a good read.

Nevada Barr is an American author of mystery fiction and known for her Anna Pigeon series of which “Track of the Cat” is the first. Her work is primarily set in a series of national parks and other protected areas of the United States.

Nevada Barr’s Website  https://nevadabarr.com/

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Writing A Successful Classic Mystery

Attribution: J. R. Cotner

I recently spent time browsing through my rather dusty bookshelves, taking stock of the great reads I’ve collected over the years. Many are intricate, classic mysteries written by some of the most successful and admired authors of that genre and era. Why were they so popular? What made them such a success?

Writing a classic mystery novel is a complex process that requires careful thought and planning. Here are three of the most important considerations for authors in this genre:

Plot Structure and Clue Placement:

The classic mystery is intricately designed with a sequence of events occurring within a believable timeline. Clues—neither too obvious nor too obscure—and red herrings are essential plot elements planted at key points of the story to build tension and suspense. That structure allows a gradual revelation of details to guide the discerning reader through the story toward an eventual resolution that ties up all loose ends and leads to a logical and satisfying conclusion.

Character Development and Motivation:

Characters, especially the detective and the perpetrator, must be well-rounded and have clear motivations that drive their actions. This can add depth and make the story more engaging. Secondary characters also play a critical role, as they often contribute to the plot through their relationships with the main characters, their secrets, and their alibis.

Setting and Atmosphere:

The setting of a classic mystery often plays a critical role in the mood and the unfolding of the plot. It must be described in a way that adds to the tension and supports the story. Whether it’s a gloomy mansion, a small village, or a bustling city, the setting must be depicted in a way that complements the tone of the mystery and aids in the unfolding of clues.

Writing a mystery requires a delicate balance between these elements, and a failure in any of these areas can lead to a less-than-satisfying reading experience. Many successful mystery writers spend significant time planning and outlining their novels to ensure that these aspects are all carefully considered and integrated into the story.

Here are examples of classic mystery novels that particularly exemplify each of the three considerations I’ve listed. First up is Plot Structure and Clue Placement and I’ve listed a work by Agatha Christie.

“The Murder of Roger Ackroyd” by Christie (published in 1926) is, I believe, an excellent example of a meticulously crafted plot structure and clue placement in a classic work. Christie employs a series of twists and turns, carefully planting clues that lead to a shocking and unexpected conclusion. The use of an unreliable narrator and the placement of red herrings are particularly masterful.

As an excellent example of Character Development and Motivation in a classic mystery, I think “The Maltese Falcon” by Dashiell Hammett (published in 1930) fits the bill as it showcases character development and motivation as key elements. Sam Spade, the protagonist, is a fully realized character with complex motives, and the villains have clear motivations that drive the plot forward. Relationships between characters are intricate, and the interactions are essential in unraveling the mystery.

As for Setting and Atmosphere, I will recommend “Rebecca” by Daphne du Maurier (published in 1938). The classic setting of the Manderley estate as a critical component of the story is very effective. The eerie and atmospheric mansion almost becomes its own character, and the descriptive language paints a vivid picture that adds to the mystery and suspense. The setting creates a gothic tone that deeply impacts the unfolding of the plot. The opening line of the story is unforgettable: “Last night I dreamed I went to Manderley again.” Classic.

I held these three rules close and emulated them when writing my own work, “Mystery Of The Death Hearth”. For anyone wishing to write an effective, compelling, and engaging mystery in the classic style, I suggest dusting off a copy of each of those works to read again. Their influence can still be seen in contemporary mystery writing.

 

 

 

 

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Goodbye My Love, Goodbye

 

Attribution: J. R. Cotner

Goodbye My Love, Goodbye by Jack R. Cotner Copyright 2015

Retreating inward from the pain,

I smell the sweetness of her hair

As we move along the path. I strain

Uphill, dragging muddied weight to where

Headstones squat like sacred peaks between

Mowed grass where walked mourning crones.

Stoic statues weathered, weeping, still serene,

Guarding lengthy rows of buried bones.

We halt. Crows pass, loud caws abating.

A portal beyond the pale awaits, silent.

The gaping hole lies open, waiting, waiting

For my dearest here quiet, broken, spent.

Farewell, sweet beauty, unfaithful miss.

I weep. Red lipstick on blue, icy lips

Beckons. Entranced, I take one final kiss

Before tossing splendor into the dark abyss.

Goodbye my love, goodbye.

 

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A Gripping Finale to an Outstanding Historical Fiction Series

 King of the Anglo Saxons by Millie Thom

Premise (from book promo): Following Guthrum’s crushing defeat at Edington, Alfred’s kingdom is enjoying a rare period of peace. Alfred is ageing. Bouts of his old illness are increasingly frequent, and he prays that his final years will be free of Viking raids, allowing him to concentrate on expanding his kingdom’s boundaries and improving its standard of learning. Scholars are summoned from near and far, amongst them a certain Welsh abbot named Asser.

Ongoing peace is no certainty, however, and Alfred continues to improve his defences. An attack on Rochester proves that Wessex is still far from safe… whilst also confirming the effectiveness of Alfred’s newly fortified towns and mobile armies. The arrival of a huge Norse army puts those defences to the test. Its devious leader does not easily give up and the conflict becomes a trial of will and wits between him and Alfred’s staunch ealdormen, one of whom is Eadwulf’s son, Aethelred.

While Aethelred pursues his role as Lord of the Mercians, Eadwulf settles back in Aros. Old friendships are rekindled, new ones are formed, and a situation in al-Andalus takes Eadwulf, Bjorn and their comrades on another dangerous quest across the sea.

But will this new life be enough to stop Eadwulf missing his children and friends back in Mercia?

My Review:

Millie Thom’s “King of the Anglo Saxons” immerses readers in the captivating world of King Alfred the Great and his struggles against Viking raids. As the fourth and final book in the Sons of Kings series, it delivers a fulfilling conclusion to a remarkable historical saga.

Already a fan of the author’s first three wonderful historical novels in the series (all three of which I’ve previously reviewed on this blog), I must say this one might be my very favorite.

As in the first three volumes, Thom skillfully balances various elements, seamlessly blending the challenges and violence of the time with adventure, romance, and action. Every character, no matter how small their role, contributes to the vibrancy of the story. The author’s meticulous research shines through, taking readers from Mercia and Denmark to the vivid and exotic al-Andalus, allowing them to envision long-forgotten times and people.

One of the book’s many strengths lies in the deep connection between King Alfred and the fictional character Eadwulf of Mercia. Thom expertly weaves historical figures with her fictional creations, creating a seamless blend of fact and fiction that enhances the authenticity of the narrative.

The author’s attention to detail is evident throughout the book, and the inclusion of maps provides a wonderful sense of place and historical evolution. She convincingly conveys the passions and motivations of King Alfred, and readers gain insight into Alfred’s dedication to defending his kingdom, fostering education, and leaving a lasting impact on his people.

“King of the Anglo Saxons” captures the complexity of staying in power and the challenge of maintaining peace in the kingdom amid Viking threats. It explores the evolving dynamics between characters, the interplay between loyalty and conflicting interests, and the personal journeys that unfold throughout the series. Readers are left with an appreciation for the historical significance of King Alfred the Great and his enduring legacy.

No doubt Millie Thom has crafted a wonderful four-book series in Sons of Kings, (four book series) with “King of the Anglo Saxons” providing a befitting and satisfying conclusion. It is a testament to Thom’s storytelling prowess, historical knowledge, and ability to create compelling characters that resonated with this reader. This series is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and those seeking an immersive and enlightening journey through a tumultuous period in English history.

Millie Thom, author

To learn more about Millie Thom, please visit her site at Bringing History To Life.

 

   

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Copyright Trolls: A Reblog from Writer Beware

Copyright J. R. Cotner

Victoria Strauss over at the Writer Beware site has some important information if you use works of art or images not of your own making on your blog or other online presence. From her post:

“Here’s how Wikipedia defines a copyright troll: a copyright troll is a party (person or company) that enforces copyrights it owns for purposes of making money through strategic litigation, in a manner considered unduly aggressive or opportunistic[.]

This kind of copyright troll creates and registers copyright to content that they then make widely available online, to increase the possibility that people will re-post it without permission. Using search technology, they find infringers and use threats of litigation to shake them down for cash settlements.”

Here’s a link to her original article. Good read!  When the Copyright Trolls Came for Me – Writer Beware

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Canyon Sacrifice: A National Park Mystery Review

 

 

Overview: Canyon Sacrifice is a mystery thriller novel written by Scott Graham. It was first published in 2013 and is the first book in the series. The story is set in the rugged landscapes of the American Southwest, primarily taking place in the iconic Grand Canyon National Park.

The protagonist is archaeologist Chuck Bender, who is drawn into a perilous adventure after he discovers a note left by his friend and fellow archaeologist, Graham Hancock, who has gone missing. As Chuck delves deeper into the mystery, he unravels a dangerous secret hidden within the canyons, leading to a thrilling and suspenseful plot.

The novel incorporates elements of archaeology, Native American history, and the unique challenges faced by those who explore and protect the national parks.

From The Book Cover: “When his new stepdaughter is kidnapped during a visit to the Grand Canyon, archaeologist Chuck Bender faces up to his secret past and his unfamiliar family-man role as he confronts every parent’s worst nightmare—that of a missing child. In Tony Hillerman fashion, Canyon Sacrifice is a gripping page-turner that brings the rugged western landscape the mysterious past of the ancient Anasazi Indians, and the modern Southwest’s ongoing cultural fissures vividly to life. Canyon Sacrifice is the first in the Nation Park Mystery Series.”

My Review: Canyon Sacrifice by Scott Graham is an easy read with mounting tension and a reasonably well-developed plot. The vivid descriptions of the Grand Canyon National Park evoked memories of my own visit to that awesome place.

The plot follows a familiar theme of an unjustly suspected protagonist on the run to prove their innocence.  I appreciated Graham’s use of red herrings, false leads, and action scenes to build suspense. Unfortunately, those positives were often overshadowed by flaws in character development, dialogue, and distractions that failed to move the plot forward.

Too often, the flow of the story was interrupted by the protagonists’ tendency to deliver lengthy archaeological lectures or to conduct extended internal dialogue about family relationships. In particular, the dynamics between Chuck and his wife were problematic, with secrets and a lack of trust creating a sense of disconnect between the two which did nothing to make me particularly like either of them.

Gaps in the storyline kept me guessing and intrigued and sometimes confused. The final chapter falls into cliché territory when the villain provides the information needed to fill in the gaps in the storyline. In my opinion, the ending deserved more attention.

Despite those issues, however, the insights shared by the author are frequently interesting and his knowledge of the subject matter and setting added depth to the narrative, especially as concerns the setting. Overall, Canyon Sacrifice is a good read, particularly for those with an interest in national parks. It may not appeal to all mystery fiction readers, but the premise and setting provide an intriguing perspective for those more interested in national parks or stories set in captivating landscapes than with die-hard mystery fans. Tony Hillerman, however, it is not.