I don’t know your tastes in fiction, but for many readers, a good murder mystery is just the ticket. Don’t get me wrong, I am not promoting graphic violence, or scenes that will haunt your dreams. But over the years, authors like Agatha Christie and Lillian Braun have entertained us with appealing characters who are thrust into a mystery that must be solved. It’s fun to follow the clues along with them to determine “who-dun-it”? Right?
A new friend and fellow Scrivenings Press author agrees, and her new book sounds like just the ticket if you are looking for a fun, captivating read.
Today, Jen Dodrill stops by to tell us a little bit about herself, and introduce us to her first novel, called “Birds Alive”.
Let’s see what she has to say:
Jenny C.: Hi, Jen. I am so happy to host you on blog today. So, for those who haven’t met you, is there any part of this new book that mirrors your own life in some way? Which character in the book do you most identify with?
Jen D.: Just like Peg, I’m an empty nester and a blogger. I’m not a famous mom blogger like her, but I do understand the ins and outs of blogging. The other day, a friend of mine said this line from the book really resonates with her, “My heart is full, but it hurts. I’m lonely, being alone.”
When your kids all move out the thing that is so hard is figuring out what to do next. It’s like this next chapter of your life has started (often without you being ready), and now it’s up to you to decide what to do. This is where Peg is when Birds Alive! begins.
When I got to this part of my life is when I decided to be serious about writing a book!
Jenny C.: I totally get that. When those little birdies grow up and flutter off, it leaves the Mama bird at loose ends sometimes. I know every book requires some research. What was your favorite discovery while preparing to write “Birds Alive?”
Jen D.: This story is set in Pensacola, FL and I grew up in Gulf Breeze, right next to Pensacola. I’m very familiar with the whole setting and it was fun to use places I know in the story. But, it’s a cozy mystery, so people have to die. I think it’s interesting to research different ways for people to die. That sounds really creepy, doesn’t it?
Writers are weird, that’s all I have to say. 😉
Jenny C. : Again. I get it. Our minds are just wired differently, right? But, we all have a reason for writing. There is something we want our readers to take with them after they finish our books. What is that message from this one?
Jen D.: I want my readers to know that even if you’re middle aged, even if your kids have moved out, even if you’re a widow like Peg the main character, you can find happiness and peace. It will take some thinking and praying to figure out what this next chapter will be like, but you can do that.
Jenny C.: Great message. Christian fiction is all about providing hope. As you’re writing, what do you do if you need some quick inspiration?
Jen D. : I love brainstorming, but since writing is a pretty solitary occupation, I have to be intentional about that. I’ve talked with my kids and my mom for ideas. Even my husband who isn’t a reader. They all give me a different way of looking at things.
Jenny C.: Great strategy. Different views and different interests help spark our fiction into something that appeals to more people. Our readers are always interested to know how we actually get words on paper. Do you have a specific routine when you write? Do you require the same atmosphere every time? Certain music, favorite snacks?
Jen D.: To be honest, I don’t have a good routine. I do always have music on when I’m writing. Usually there’s a cup of coffee on my desk. My dog often joins me in my study. Routine is something I’m working on.
Jenny C.: When it comes down to it, we are all individuals. Your routine wont be like anyone else’s. That’s what makes us all unique. So, what’s in your future? Should we be watching for another book after this one? Or, are you taking some time off?
Jen D.: Birds Alive! is book #1 in the Empty-nesters Cozy Mystery Series. I’m working on the 2nd book – Where’s the Quetzal? It will be released February 2025.
I also have a completed women’s fiction manuscript that is at a potential publisher. I’m waiting to hear back on that. It is very different from the cozy mysteries.
Jenny C: I sort of thought I knew the answer to that last part. Like me, you are always looking forward to that next project. Do you have any parting words for our readers today?
Jen D.: We learn from our past and we can use that as we look to the future. I encourage readers of all ages to be open to new opportunities, and especially to hold their family close through all of life!
Jenny C. Such great advice. Thanks so much for participating in this interview today. I think you and I are kindred spirits in many ways. I hope our readers will love reading your new book.
A question for the readers: Have you ever started a new activity that helped you get through some changes in your life? Have you ever considered taking up bird watching? Answer in the comments below, and you might win a copy of this great new book!
Also- come back tomorrow for an interview with one of the main characters in “Birds Alive.”
Here’s more about Jen Dodrill. Don’t forget to answer the question in the Comments section!
Jen Dodrill is married and is the mother of five adult children and grandmother of three. She homeschooled for thirteen years, taught Oral Communication for her local community college, and is a ‘retired’ Navy wife. After her youngest graduated high school, Jen started writing her first book. Her inspiration comes in many forms, and she loves incorporating humor and personal experiences into her stories. Her first book, Birds Alive! An Empty-nesters Cozy Mystery, released February 27, 2024.
Jen is an avid fiction reader with an eclectic collection of novels, many of which sit in an old embalming fluids box belonging to her great-grandfather, Captain Alfred, MD.
When she’s not writing, you’ll find her spending time with her family or curled up on the couch with her favorite black cat, reading and drinking a mug of dark roast coffee.
For more information about Jen, her books, writing info and tips, and author interviews, check out her blog: https://jendodrillwrites.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jendodrillwrites/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JenDodrillWrites
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jen-Dodrill/author/B0CSDW3CHR
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/47887511.Jen_Dodrill
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/jen-dodrill
Jenny, thank you for having me on your blog! I can’t wait to hear what the readers have done to deal with the changes in their lives!