Tuesday, February 26, 2019

Location, Location, Location


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By Lynn McPherson

The setting of a book is a critical part of a story. Location can determine the mood before opening the first page. A big city will feel different than a coastal village, or a domestic setting versus one abroad. As a cozy writer, my location is pre-determined since the majority of cozy mysteries take place in small, idyllic towns. But even within these parameters, there are several options.

In my Izzy Walsh Mystery Series, I chose a fictional small town in New England, not far from New York City. It was an easy decision. Every time I’ve been there, the warmth and beauty of New England captivated me. In addition, when I started writing the series, I was a new mom. Writing was a great escape for me, and part of that was going on a vacation to one of my favourite places every time I looked at my screen.

With the end of February approaching, I’ve been thinking of warm weather and beach escapes. It’s fair to say the springtime always makes me feel like it’s time for a quick jaunt. March break and the slow end of winter stirs up a desire to run away from the dreary end of the cold days and long nights here in my own small town, not far from Toronto, Canada. However, instead of physically leaving, this year I will be planning an escape on paper. I’m considering a short story, or possibly even a new series, that incorporates a beach or, at the very least, short-sleeve weather. I’m ready to soak in the warmth and bask in the rays of an imaginary sunshine.

Do you have any place, real or imagined that you like to escape to when you need a break? Do you have a favourite location or setting in books that you gravitate toward? I’m always happy to discuss beautiful vacation spots and let my mind take me there, even just for a few minutes.



Lynn McPherson has worked for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, ran a small business, and taught English across the globe. She has travelled the world solo where her daring spirit has led her to jump out of airplanes, dive with sharks, and learn she would never master a surfboard. She now channels her lifelong love of adventure and history into her writing, where she is free to go anywhere, anytime. Her cozy series has two books out: The Girls' Weekend Murder and The Girls Whispered Murder.  

2 comments:

  1. The best part of reading is traveling to new locations without having to leave home! Writing is like that, too. Fun post, Lynn.

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  2. Thanks Judy. I appreciate you dropping by and agree about traveling to new locations in my comfy chair by the fireplace.

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