Interview With Author Joan Havelange
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Joan Havelange, the author of 5 mystery novels. Murder Exit Stage Right is my 5th mystery, published in October 2022. And I’m working on my 6th.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Murder Exit Stage Right takes place at a drama festival. I directed little theatre for many years and have a lot of ammunition. but I did love directing. I find writing a lot like directing, except all my characters show up on time and know their lines. although they sometimes go off in a direction that I didn’t anticipate.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I do have a lazy boy chair that I curl up in to write. It is a very ugly chair, but it works for me. I also get more writing done in the winter. It’s cold outside.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Agatha Christie, Rhys Bowen, Lynwood Barclay and many more.
What are you working on now?
Moving is Murder is my work in progress. Mabel, my protagonist, is trusting the wrong person; it doesn’t look good for her. It might lead to her demise. She’s been lucky so far in her other adventures. This might be her last. I haven’t decided. The publication date is October 2023.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
The Awesome Gang, of course. Facebook, Twitter. I’m not sure if Instagram is beneficial. And book clubs are great.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
edit, edit, edit. readers deserve a well-written book. But never give up, you have a story to tell. And it won’t get told sitting in a drawer.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The first draft is a story your telling yourself. Then edit.
What are you reading now?
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman. I highly recommend his book.
What’s next for you as a writer?
My publisher has asked me to write a historical mystery. I have picked the 1900s set in the new capital city of Saskatchewan. This is great fun researching what was happening at that time. The mystery is scheduled to be published in March 2024.
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?
Anything by Richard Osman, Lynwood Barclay and Rhys Bowen.
Author Websites and Profiles
Joan Havelange Author Profile on Smashwords
Joan Havelange’s Social Media Links