Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I write as both Melissa Bourbon and Winnie Archer. As Melissa Bourbon, I have 3 different mystery series published, as well as a few mystery/romantic suspense.
As Winnie Archer, I write a cozy mystery series.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Murder at Sea Captain’s Inn released on July 20, 2021. It is book 2 in my Book Magic mystery series. It features Pippin Lane Hawthorne, her twin brother, Grey (both named after Tolkien characters) and is set on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Pippin is a bibliomancer (a divination by which a book is opened to a random page or passage, and then interpreted). There is a 2000 year old curse, and so much more!
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I try for routine. I do everything else that I may need to do in the mornings, and try to write all afternoon nearly everyday. Sometimes this doesn’t work, but usually it does.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Agatha Christie started my true love of mysteries (after Nancy Drew and the Bobbsey Twins).
What are you working on now?
I’m currently finishing up the 8th Bread Shop Mystery (Bread Over Troubled Water), which I write under the name Winnie Archer.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I co-run a private FB group called the Book Warriors. This group, as well as my own Facebook author page help me get the word out about my books. I love that there are places like this to help reach new readers.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t give up! I am a former teacher, mother of 5, lover of books, and generally busy person. I have a passion for writing and kept at it, even in the face of rejection. There were many times I wanted to throw in the towel. My best advice is to simply keep at it.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I remember seasoned authors telling me to give myself permission to write badly. Some days, the words don’t come easily, but as long as I get them down, I can go back and edit.
What are you reading now?
I’m in the middle of listening to The Rose Code, by Kate Quinn, and I’m reading Malibu Rising, by Taylor Jenkins Reid.
What’s next for you as a writer?
After Bread Over Troubled Water is wrapped up, it’s on to Murder Through an Open Door, the 3rd Book Magic Mystery.
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?
Oh wow. Tough question. I honestly have no idea. East of Eden comes to mind. It’s one of my all time favorites. Not sure what else!
Author Websites and Profiles
Melissa Bourbon Website
Melissa Bourbon Amazon Profile
Melissa Bourbon Author Profile on Smashwords
Melissa Bourbon’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account
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