Linda Burson and Murder Among Friends

Linda, welcome to Nomad Authors!

NA: How did you come up with the idea for your book?

LB: I used to work for a Private Investigator so the idea stemmed from that. I added some creative licensing and threw in some characters that were a mix of a few people I knew during that time.

NA: What sort of research did you do to write this book?

LB: I visited the areas that I mentioned in the book. I made sure my timelines worked for driving distances between Boston and the town in Connecticut. I also did some brief research regarding law degrees and interrogation techniques.

NA: What is the main thing you want readers to take away from your book?

LB: I just want readers to be entertained, to feel like they are somewhere else and a part of other’s lives for the time they are reading the story. Personally, I love to escape once-in-a-while through books. I hope my novels are escapes for readers and at the end, they are satisfied with their adventure.

NA: Do you have a day job? What was your job before you started writing full time?

LB: Basically, I’m retired for the most part. I ran multiple businesses for many years. The last fifteen years, I owned and operated a computerized embroidery and products promotion business.

NA: What started you on the path to writing?

LB: I’ve always loved writing, from the first writing assignment I was given at the age of eight. I never stopped. I used to write stories for fun while other kids were complaining about writing.

Finally, after a serious bout of breast cancer, and losing my best friend to the same disease, I decided it was time to do what I loved the most…that life was too short to put everything else ahead of what was in my heart. So, I sat down one day and began my full-time writing journey.

NA: What do your friends and family think about your being a writer?

LB: I think for the most part they are proud of me…proud that I actually made this commitment and stuck with it. Most of the time, no one makes any comments about it. Maybe it’s just because it’s a part of who I am so they figured nothing needs to be said; I’m not sure. I guess they think of it as my normal job, just like they all have regular jobs. I suppose if I became a NY Times bestselling author or something similar, or if a producer wanted to make a movie from one of my novels, then they may make mention of it and make a bigger deal about it. As of now, none of my family members even read my books as far as I know. Most friends, though, will usually ask how I’m doing with the writing.

NA: Do you outline books ahead of time or are you more of a by-the-seat-of-your-pants writer?

LB: I’m definitely a panster. I get as comfortable as I can and start writing what’s in my head. Eventually, though, I jot down information so I can keep it all straight in my mind. I don’t want to have a character with green eyes and wavy hair in Chapter 1 and then have it change in Chapter 20. I want to keep track of other traits, etc. as well and that goes for spellings of names.

NA: What has been one of your most rewarding experiences as an author?

LB: Meeting so many wonderful authors on social media. It is a much bigger community than I ever realized. There are many that are kind, thoughtful, and helpful. They don’t see themselves in competition with you, but as a colleague. Not ALL OF THEM are this way, but most of the ones I associate with the most, definitely are terrific.

An author not promoting another author is not only sad, but ridiculous. Think about it…if a book is really good and you love it, you can read it in one night! I do this all the time. In this case, you could literally read seven books a week. Okay, not normal, but possible. The point I’m trying to make is, we can read many, many books from a variety of authors and still want to read more and more. There’s no reason to feel intimidated or jealous of another. Of course we want to be successful, but recommending another’s book if you enjoyed it, should be easy to do.

NA: What do you like to do when you’re not writing?

LB: If I’m not writing a book, I’m editing one, or reading another. I spend many hours marketing and promoting my work, and I put a newsletter together once a month. Right now, my assistant and I are working on revamping the first book in my MARCY SERIES. If that goes well, we may continue with the others in the series.

I make sure I work out with a fitness trainer a couple times a week to stay fit and healthy. Sometimes, I need to get out and take a drive to clear my mind. This is when I recharge so I may return home and continue the writing process. I’m also a new grandmother, so if there is any time available to visit my new gorgeous granddaughter, I will do that in a heartbeat.

NA: What are your top three favorite books of all time?

LB: This is a difficult question. I don’t know how anyone can answer this question. Usually, my favorite book is the one I’m reading at the moment. Of course, I do like some books better than others, but there are so many novels out there, I couldn’t pick just three. I don’t even think I’ve read my top three favorite books as of yet. I haven’t read enough to answer this question.

NA: What’s one of your pet peeves?

LB: I have a few pet peeves. One of my biggest, and it stems from being an author, is the way some people write reviews. When someone bashes another’s hard work and livelihood, it would be nice if they would be specific about why they bashed it.

If a reader has a problem with a book they’ve read because they don’t believe in a certain behavior, that doesn’t mean the book was bad. They’re taking a personal opinion about a lifestyle and using it against the author.

I may not like BDSM, but if the story is well-written, has a great story-line, is edited well, flows, and has no plot holes, etc.; it’s a good book and deserves a good rating. Just because I don’t live my life that way, doesn’t mean I give a bad review because I don’t believe in it. I’ve seen people do this time and time again.

I just don’t get it. If you don’t like the subject of a book, don’t read it! I hate to end a story crying my eyes out; however, I read a book last year that put me into a deep depression because it was so sad. Did I give it a bad review? NO!! It was a phenomenal story. I don’t like to have a sad ending, but that’s a personal preference. It was still a fantastic book. Of course I could go on about other topics people might not believe in — drug addicts, plural relationships, having children out of wedlock…blah, blah, blah. It’s called fiction for a reason. Unless there are multiple errors and the story is rushed or inconsistent, I don’t see giving it one or two stars because — well, because I didn’t like the fact that the woman in the story cheated on her husband.

NA: Why did you choose the shirt you have on?

LB: I normally choose something for comfort. Of course, I love to look good in it — hopefully thinner LOL — however, comfort is always my first thought.

NA: What errand/chore do you despise the most?

LB: I’m not fond of grocery shopping, believe it or not. I know most people don’t understand this, but I just don’t enjoy it. Of course, I love food. I don’t even mind preparing meals occasionally, but going to the store? I’d rather not!

NA: What famous person would you like to have dinner with?

LB: Since this is kind-of a fantasy question, I think I’ll reply with a fantasy answer. Instead of a famous person, I’d love to have dinner with my entire maternal-side from generations back. If I could get all the grandparents way back to the great-great-great-great grandparents on my mother’s parents side; it would be incredible!

NA: What are you working on now?

LB: I’ve just completed another romantic suspense book that I’m almost finished editing. I’m still working on a women’s fiction story that I started about a year ago, and I’m in the process of revamping the first book in my MARCY SERIES called, RAGE.

NA: If I could spend time writing anywhere in the world, where would I choose to go?

LB: I would love to visit a historical castle somewhere in England, Ireland, or Scotland. A large castle that had a wonderful old library with the most perfect desk to place my laptop, a comfortable chair to sit, and a roaring fireplace for those chilly days and nights; and as my muse, enough property and gardens to roam for hours. Of course, there would need to be a staff so I don’t have to break my concentration by preparing meals, drinks, and snacks. What a perfect dream! [NA: You’d hear my knocking at the castle gates!]

Murder Among Friends blurb:
Emotionally and mentally, Camille Thurston has had it. She needs a rest from her high- pressure job and Boston’s energetic lifestyle. A sabbatical at her brother Zach’s Connecticut home seems like the perfect change of scenery. Little does she know that even in a small town, she can’t escape the intensity of her profession.

A woman is reported missing. Zach and his partner, Russ Nolan, are on the case, and Camille with her own background in private investigation decides she can’t sit by idly. However, things become complicated when she becomes involved not only with the case, but with the family of the missing woman.

Excerpt:
As Frank parks, Cammy sees what she’s guessing to be her brother’s unmarked police vehicle coming toward her. The headlights are bright and are blinding her. When they turn off the lights, she confirms in her mind that it’s him and Russ.

She climbs out of her car. Zach doesn’t stand on formality. He walks right over to her and gives her a big hug. “You always scare me to death, sis.”

“Sorry, Zachary; it’s my fault. Hello there. I’m Frank Dees. I drove her like the escaping bank robber.”

“Frank, it’s great to meet you Thank you for bringing her. I really appreciate it.”

“No thanks necessary, Zach. She wasn’t gettin’ away from me unless she performed magic and disappeared into thin air.”

“I’m so happy to hear you say that. I’m already calming down. This is my partner, Russ Nolan. Russ, Cam’s boss, Frank Dees, retired decorated police officer.”

“You can leave out the decorated part,” Frank says as he shakes hands with Russ.

“No sir. You earned it and deserve the recognition. It’s an honor to meet you. Thank you for taking such good care of my sister. She worries me.”

“She’s damn good at what she does, Zach. Believe me. I’m more than proud of her.”

“That’s great to hear coming from you, Frank.” Zach notes. “Well, let’s go inside and get this over with.”

“Zach, please let me go in first.”

“Cam, you know I can’t let you tell him. You’re not even supposed to be here.”

“I know. I won’t say anything. Just let him see me first.”

“Alright.”

“Let’s stay quiet and get off the street before the whole neighborhood comes out,” Cam whispers.

“Good idea, Cam,” Frank agrees.

They all walk up to Grant’s front door. Cam tells Zach not to ring the bell. It’s not the quietest and Grant’s bedroom is in the front of the house. He’ll most likely hear the knock. This way they won’t take a chance of waking Austin or disturbing the neighbors. Zach taps on the door a few times. There’s no answer.
“Here Zach, let me, please,” Cam whispers.
He gives her a frustrated look, then he nods his approval. Cammy knocks three times, pauses, knocks twice, pauses, and then knocks four times. She repeats this process about ten seconds later. This is when she can see the hall light up the stairs go on through the glass in the door. She knows he heard.
He darts down the stairs. She can see his shadow. She’s certain he knows it’s her. She knows she’s about to see a huge disappointment on his face when he looks behind her. She’s shaking. Her palms are sweating and her hands are fidgeting. Those three nervous signs she can’t control.
Grant hurriedly opens the front door. “Cam,” he shouts with a large smile. When he sees the three men with her, as if on remote control, the smile is gone.
Grant steps back. After looking at Zach, Russ, and Frank, he goes back to staring at Cammy.
“Well, it’s obvious something’s not right, and I’m guessing it has to do with Paula. What’d you find out?” He directs his questions to Cammy.
Zach speaks. “Grant, we believe we found your wife.”
Grant’s eyes widen and his breathing is ragged. He raises his right hand and pushes it through his hair. Cammy knows his nervous idiosyncrasies, but she’s hoping she’s the only one. She can see his hands tremble, but it’s only a slight movement. She notes Frank is watching him, but Russ and Zach are concentrating on his face.

Author:

My website is: www.lindajburson.com
Link to Murder Among Friends on Amazon