Coming Full Circle
Writer's Life
Hi, friends! And Happy Easter for those of you who observe the holiday.
Hey, I’m a cat guy. What would you expect? An actual bunny?
Anyway, today’s post is coming to you from the Emerald Coast of Florida.
A little over six years ago, while my wife and I were visiting the area, I came up with the idea of an offbeat amateur sleuth who spend his days as a wild animal removal specialist. That concept grew into The Elmo Simpson Mysteries, set in the fictional town of Paradise Springs, Florida.
I’ve recently started writing the sixth, and most likely final, book in the series. As I embark on one last visit to the Springs, I find it fitting that I’m vacationing in the area.
It’s a bit of a full circle moment, I think.
I love the real-life Emerald Coast, with its sugar sand beaches and gorgeous sunsets. Just like I love Paradise Springs, which I still haven’t quite located, but I know it’s somewhere between Pensacola and Panama City.
Paradise Springs is kind of like Margaritaville. When asked one time where Margaritaville was located, Jimmy Buffett said it’s wherever you need it to be. I like to think about Paradise Springs the same way.
Will I ever return to the Emerald Coast after this vacation? I don’t know. Will I ever return to Paradise Springs after Elmo book 6? Again, I don’t know.
What I do know is to never say never. Who knows what’s going to happen in this crazy career I have as a writer.
I also know that later this year, I’ll be visiting the Low Country of South Carolina. I’ll be scouting out locations for a new mystery series I hope to write. Stay tuned for more details.
By the way, if you’re a fan of paperbacks, Panic in the Panhandle, Elmo book1, is now available in mass market paperback from Harlequin Worldwide Mystery. You can order get your copy for only $7.99 by clicking here.
As always, thanks for reading. Before I wrap up, where would you like to see me set a mystery series? I’m always open to new locations. Until next time, bubbles up!
Oh, you'll be back to Paradise Springs, my friend, I'm certain. That said, I'm liking South Carolina for a mystery series--lots of spooky fun places in the Carolinas! Can't wait for more J.C. Kenney mysteries!
I think you’ll return to the Emerald Coast, because the area gets into your heart and your blood. But South Carolina will be a lovely change. Looking forward to the next arc in your writing circle.