Book: Better Gnomes & Gardens
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
Thank you to Sassy Reviews and their subscribers for the opportunity to learn more about Better Gnomes & Gardens and the Mysty Haven Series.
About Casey Cardel, living in a small town of Wisconsin has its benefits to explore the quiet life and enjoy hobbies like gardening, cooking, lakeview sunsets and the ever-so- hyper squirrel life. As much as hobbies are enjoyed, reading books when time permits are a treasure. I’ve been a fan of mysteries, paranormal romances, science fiction and horror for a long time and found that cozy mysteries are my favorites.
My first writing began when I was sixteen after my high school teacher suggested I consider writing as a career. Though many years had passed, I held onto the idea and wrote a few short stories here and there, but never followed through with publishing. I felt the work wasn’t good enough, so I ‘practiced’ and learned more about the art of writing as time passed.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Better Gnomes & Gardens’ book?
There were only two key challenges that were faced while writing Better Gnomes & Gardens. 1. Timing and placement of clues, and 2. Research.
For us, writing this book consisted of many hours of collaboration and research on the characters. We wanted a unique cozy mystery series where the elements of myths and legend lore blend with fiction. The timing and placement of particular clues
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
There have been many books I’ve read over the years, and perhaps only a few authors have influenced my writing. Katherine Smith is one of my favorite authors who has greatly influenced my writing with her style. Each author develops a unique style over time. Smith has a very smooth writing style that I love. She has a way of making you fall in love with her main characters. Morgana Best has the witty sassy style I enjoy reading with her main characters. Stephen King, of course has the suspense and twists that influenced my writing from an early age.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
My favorite spot to visit would be Orange Beach, Alabama and Pensacola Beach, Florida. I love the sugar white sandy beaches and the emerald, blue waters. The beach is a soothing getaway, and I do love the water. I’ve even been lucky enough to see a few dolphins at play.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
Yes. Researching history, legends and mythology for the characters. Writing the characters out in detail before the book even starts. Next, there is the plot planning and of course the twists.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Better Gnomes & Gardens’ book?
Better Gnomes & Gardens took about 2 months to write from start to finish, after all the background work had been completed.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Better Gnomes & Gardens’ book to buy?
Better Gnomes & Gardens is available worldwide at different book retailers, such as Amazon, Barnes & Nobles, Apple iBooks, Books A Million, Target and many international book retailers.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Better Gnomes & Gardens’?
The book cover went through many changes before reached its resting point. Lol No one could agree on the right cover layout. My editor finally started suggesting a few cover ideas and to ‘keep it simple”.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
While writing, I keep in mind my personal likes and dislikes. I try to keep each chapter interesting and captivating for the reader by creating something new for the readers and myself to explore. If at any given moment, I find myself ‘skipping’ paragraphs during the re-reading phase, I immediately stop and begin deleting and rewriting.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
The inhabitants of Mysty Haven identify as “Mysticals”, rather than paranormal. Hint, the name Mysty Haven. Each of the characters have an interesting background and role to play in the little town that’s hidden from the human view. Readers will find a combination of twists on mythical creatures and legendary lore within this tight net little community.
Book Is Available On Amazon
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