Pamela Grandstaff, Author of Rose Hill

Today we are interviewing Pamela Grandstaff about her cozy mystery novel "Rose Hill," the first book in the Rose Hill Mystery Series.

*"Rose Hill" - first book in the Rose Hill Mystery Series will be free on July 3-4, 2015. Get a copy here*

Tell us a bit about yourself.
I grew up in West Virginia, and although I’ve lived many other places, I consider West Virginia my home. I’ve written seven books so far in the Rose Hill Mystery Series as well as children's books "June Bug Days and Firefly Nights" and "Ella's New Hat and Her Terrible Cat."

Describe the plot of your book in a few sentences.
"Rose Hill" is the first book in the series. When rich and rotten Theo Eldridge is found bludgeoned to death in the local veterinary clinic, Rose Hill police chief Scott Gordon has no trouble finding suspects. He does, however, have trouble keeping the woman he loves from poking her nose in the investigation.

Who do you think would most appreciate this book?
Readers who like cozy mysteries set in small towns full of odd characters; stories with a little romance, a twisty plot, and a lot of humor.

What inspired you to write a story about a brutal murder in a small town?
I love mysteries, and no one reads books about well-behaved people who never do anything wrong.

Tell us a bit about the protagonist, Scott Gordon.

Author Pamela Grandstaff.

He’s not your typical fictional police chief. He’s got a controlling mother, he won’t listen to gossip, and he gets nauseous at the sight of blood. He’s crazy about Maggie Fitzpatrick, and even though she does very little to encourage it, he’s loyal and devoted to her. He’s handsome and kind, and he has a good heart.

Who was your favorite character to write?
Hannah because she’s funny and a smart-ass, and her little boy Sammy because he’s so very ornery. I also enjoy writing pretentious snobs; I find it easy to do because I’ve known so many! That’s one of the therapeutic perks of writing – I can make things turn out so badly for mean people.

Are there any authors who have influenced your writing style?
Among others, I was inspired to write the Rose Hill series by Martha Grimes, who writes the Richard Jury mystery series. My favorite parts of her books take place in a small town called Long Piddleton in the UK, where the characters are funny and eccentric. I was also inspired by the BBC America series “Jam and Jerusalem” written by Jennifer Saunders. Clatterford is another small town full of eccentric characters and strong, funny women with close relationships.

How do you feel about the increasing popularity of ebooks?
It’s leveled the playing field somewhat for indie authors like me. I’m thrilled with it – it’s a great adventure.

What are your goals as a writer for the next ten years?
I’ve planned twelve books in the series, and I’ve written seven, so the next five years will be spent on this series. I would also like to write and illustrate more children’s books.

Is there any aspect of writing you don't like?
No. I love everything about it, and I feel lucky to be able to do it.

Is there anything else you'd like potential readers to know about your book?
It’s free on July 3rd and 4th on Amazon.com.

More Information
Buy "Rose Hill" on Amazon
Visit the Rose Hill Series website