Antiques and Alibis
You’re very welcome, Wendy!
Today I would like to talk about inspiration in the hope it will help others on their writing journey. I also hope readers will find the post interesting and informative.
The saying goes that inspiration is slow in coming. In my case the opposite is true – my brain is so stuffed with stories it’s a job to decide which to follow first. My first series, the DI Shona McKenzie Mysteries, was inspired by a dream, or rather a nightmare. Yes, I know you shouldn’t start a story with a dream, and I didn’t. Honest guv. The book which arose from this, Killer’s Countdown, actually starts with a stand-off in a frozen Scottish wood. This has led to six books in the series, with the seventh, Killer’s Curse, being written as we speak.
On 1stAugust 2018 I launched a new series – Cass Claymore Investigates. Where the inspiration arrived for this one is anyone’s guess. I am a huge fan of Janet Evanovich’s comic crime series. I wondered if I could write a Scottish version of this, with less exploding cars of course. Dundee isn’t that big and if cars keep exploding there would be none left.
I brainstormed the most unlikely Private Investigator that Dundee could ever come across. I ended up with a red headed, motor bike riding ex-ballerina. A principal dancer with the Royal Ballet no less. Or at least she was. This Cass Claymore was born. Then the fun started. In strolled another character called Crammond McQuillan, an ex-con dwarf. The conversation went something like this.
Quill: Crammond McQuillan at your service. I’m your new character.
Me: No, you’re not. Shove off.
Quill: I’m afraid that’s not possible, I’m here to stay.
Me: Fine. (Through gritted teeth) I suppose you might come in useful.
Quill: Dear Lady, I’m one of the main characters.
And what a character he turned out to be. I’m so glad he turned up and is now Cass’s assistant. Sometimes the best ideas present themselves in the strangest of ways.
This series is not intended to take itself seriously. It’s comic crime where the laughs come thick and fast. A madcap caper through Scotland where the reader hangs onto the shirt-tails of the story and comes along for the ride.
My final words, when it comes to inspiration, let your imagination run wild.
Too true, Wendy. Thank you!