Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m the author of over 35 published books (and a few more that will never be published.) I’ve written two series: Rocky Bluff P.D. mysteries set in a small beach community in Southern California, and the Deputy Tempe Crabtree mysteries, written under the name Marilyn Meredith, set in the Southern Sierra. I’m married, have five grown children and many grand and great-grandkids. I’m also on the board of the Public Safety Writers Association, and belong to Mystery Writers of America and three chapters of Sisters in Crime.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book in the Rocky Bluff P.D. series is Murder in the Worst Degree. A friend gave me the title and I was nearly finished with the book before I knew how the title was going to fit. In all the books in the series, my goal has been to show how what happens in the family affects the job (being a law enforcement officer) and how what happens on the job affects the family. Having family members in law enforcement as well as many friends who in some form of LE has given me many incentives to write in this genre.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I get up really early and do all my writing in the early morning hours. And I’ll probably be drinking a cup of Chai latte. Though I do write notes about the book in progress, I don’t do a formal outline.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Oh, so very many. I started out reading Nancy Drew when I was a kid and progressed to all the famous mystery writers from Robert Parker to Mary Higgins Clark. I’m still an avid mystery fan and always have a large TBR pile.
What are you working on now?
The next Rocky Bluff P.D. I’m just now gathering my notes, figuring out who will be a victim and the suspects, what other crimes the members of the RBPD will face, and what crises they will face in their private lives.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve probably tried everything, but I’m fond of blog tours. They are a lot of work, but I enjoy doing them. My website has a lot of information about me and all my books. http://fictionforyou.com/
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Read the kind of books that you want to write. Learn as much as you can about the craft of writing. Go to writers conferences. And if you can, join a critique group. Always have someone edit your work before you publish yourself or send your manuscript off to a publisher.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write, write, write and don’t ever give up.
What are you reading now?
Trickster’s Point by William Kent Krueger.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Working on my next book, planning promotion both online and in-person.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
The Bible and any really thick books I haven’t read yet. Probably the latest Stephen King. Or better yet, a loaded Kindle as long as there was a way to recharge it.
Author Websites and Profiles
F. M. Meredith Website
F. M. Meredith Amazon Profile
F. M. Meredith’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account