Unveiling Magic and Mystery with Lucinda Race

Meet Lucinda Race, the author behind the A Book Store Cozy Mysteries, the paranormal series set in the charming town of Pembroke Cove. The series follows a witch Lily Michaels and her familiar, Milo, as they unravel mysteries and navigate magical adventures. With a delightful mix of humor, captivating characters, and a touch of romance, Lucinda’s books promise a bewitching read.

Could you share a little about yourself and the cozy mysteries you write?

I write paranormal cozy mysteries with a late blooming witch, a snarky talking familiar Milo, and a cast of witches and non-magicals in my small town of Pembroke Cove.

How do you develop your characters, particularly your amateur sleuth?

Lily Michaels was created from a woman I saw working in a book shop. She had a different name but some of Lily’s inquisitiveness is like that lady in the bookstore.

For me, it all starts with the name. Then I really think about what that person will look like, their mannerisms, and their qualities. They evolve from that. There are times when I do change a name as I begin to write, but that’s rare.

Cozy mysteries often feature unique settings or themes. Can you tell us about the setting/theme of your latest book and what drew you to it?

My series is set in a bookstore in a small coastal town. Each story that I’ve written revolves around the town and characters I write. Its fun watching them evolve and the different community events that happen in the town, and of course all those murders…

What do you find most challenging about writing cozy mysteries, and how do you overcome it?

The clues and red herrings. I don’t plot a book. I write organically and discover the story as it unveils itself. Much like the way the reader enjoys the book. This means I’m circling back to add in a detail or enhance a red herring to keep the reader on their toes hopefully. 

Cozy mysteries often incorporate humor and wit. How do you balance the lighter elements with the seriousness of the mystery?

Milo is the snarky familiar for Lily. His dry sense of humor keeps things light, and he’s known for giving members of the police department nicknames, like Detective Cutie.

Can you share any interesting research experiences or fun facts you discovered while researching for your books?

Researching poisons is very interesting, and I tend to go down a rabbit hole just thinking how I can get the victim exposed to the substance. There was one book I couldn’t find one that was suitable, so I combined two different elements and created a new variety. Talk about fun!

Do pets play a role in your cozy mysteries, and do they reflect any real-life pets or experiences?

I love adding pets to the story and the witches in my books have familiars and there’s a rescue dog Brutus. I have two dogs myself, and they are so expressive. But Milo is the talking version of my daughter’s cat, Mordy. He was snarky without speaking a word.

Is there anything else you’d like to share that I haven’t covered in the interview?

My books are a fun read for anyone, and there is a dash of romance, too. But the thrust of the story is all about Lily solving the murder with the help of the trusty police officers.

Finally, what advice do you have for aspiring cozy mystery writers?

That’s a tough question since there is so much I could share with new writers. Write the book that is niggling at you and don’t let anyone, not even yourself, tell you that you shouldn’t. Keep your fingers on the keys and be detailed in all that you write. Build a world the readers love to discover and visit.

Thank you