Saturday, June 25, 2016

Interview: Monica Knightley author of Come, Bitter Poison


Recently I took the time out for reviewing and reading books to sit down and talk with Monica Knightley who wrote Come, Bitter Poison.  Thank you Monica for taking the time to talk with me at Community Bookstop! 

What genre do you write?

I write in a few different genres. I’ve written paranormal/historical romances, young adult contemporary, and mystery.

How did you come to write the various genres?

I’ve always been an eclectic reader and now I’m writing eclectically. Mysteries of all sorts, from cozies to police procedurals, have always been a favorite of mine so it was natural for me to want to try my hand at the genre. I’ve discovered I love writing cozy mysteries and think I’ll be writing in this genre for a long time to come.

Who is your favorite character to write about?

When I created the characters for this series I knew I’d be spending a substantial amount of time with them so I made sure they were all people I’d enjoy in one way or another. My protagonist, Maggie O’Flynn, is one of my all time favorite characters to write. As a steamy romance writer and tea room owner who used to be a nun, Maggie offers unlimited possibilities for character development. But I also have to give a shout out for Maggie’s partner in crime (solving), Gina Mattucci. She’s a hoot to write, as she’s a loud, brash spitfire. They complement one another very well.

Who inspires your books?

I’m inspired both by the people in my life and the writers I’ve read throughout my life. As for writers who have inspired me I’d have to include Jane Austen, Agatha Christie, Daphne du Maurier, Diana Gabaldon, and Stephanie Perkins.

What do you do when you’re not writing?

I recently became a grandma for the first time and my favorite thing now is spending time with my adorable granddaughter! I love to travel and experience new places and cultures. I think travel is the best inspiration for writing. I live in an area of the country that boasts many, many wineries, and my husband and I enjoy wine tasting with friends. And of course I go into DT’s if I don’t have a book or two or three that I’m reading.

If you were stuck on a deserted island what three things would you take?
I’m going to assume that this island is like Gilligan’s island and I can pack plenty of my three items, ala the Howells’ and Ginger’s packing. Of course I’d have a large stack of books. There would have to be boxes of tea, strong bold English breakfast teas as well as some good Darjeeling. And finally, a case or two of Oregon Pinot Noir.
Synopsis of Come, Bitter Poison:

Sexy film star. Long-held secrets. Murder by poison.
When international stage and film star Miles Elliot comes to Stratford Upon Avondale to play Macbeth, Maggie O’Flynn is thrilled. He’s been her actor crush for years. But when Miles ends up at the center of a murder investigation Maggie finds herself slipping back into the role of amateur sleuth. Before long many of her friends become suspects in not just one murder, but two. Maggie must discover who’s poisoning people associated with the Shakespeare Festival before one of her friends gets slapped with a murder charge. And she must do so while dodging paparazzi that are stalking her due to a supposed love affair she’s having with Miles Elliot.
With a bit of Shakespeare, copious amounts of tea, and a faux-English setting to rival anything the real England has to offer, COME, BITTER POISON is the second book in THE STRATFORD UPON AVONDALE mystery series. Though part of a series, COME, BITTER POISON can be read and enjoyed as a standalone. Lovers of cozy mysteries will find a cozy home in Stratford Upon Avondale.
Author Biography:

Monica Knightley began creating compelling characters and stories at the age of three, when she had a plethora of imaginary friends, all with complete backstories. Today any characters that come knocking on the door of her imagination find themselves in one of her mysteries, young adult novels, or paranormal romances.
When not fueling her reading addiction or writing her next book, Monica loves to travel with her husband—especially to England. A bit of England seems to make its way into most of her books. Must haves include a perfectly steeped cup of tea, and a good, bold red wine. She lives in Portland, Oregon where the frequent rainy weather is perfect for curling up with a good book and a cup of tea.
Author Links:
Tour Participants:
June 20 – I Read What You Write – REVIEW, INTERVIEW No post – interview added above.
June 20 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT
June 20 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – SPOTLIGHT
June 21 – Brooke Blogs – GUEST POST
June 21 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
June 22 – A Holland Reads – CHARACTER GUEST POST
June 22 – Back Porchervations – REVIEW
June 23 – Shelley’s Book Case – REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST
June 23 – T’s Stuff – SPOTLIGHT
June 24 – Books Direct – GUEST POST
June 24 – StoreyBook Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
June 25 – Community Bookstop – INTERVIEW
June 26 – Cozy Up With Kathy – INTERVIEW
June 26 – Author Annette Drake’s blog – SPOTLIGHT

2 shout outs:

holdenj said...

Nice to 'meet' Monica! Looking forward to reading more about Stratford Upon Avondale!

Monica Knightley said...

Thank you so much for hosting me today! I look forward to fun day!