Today, Betty Thomason Owens, the author of The Visitor Has a Ball, the sixth story in The Visitor Mystery series, shares with us how her story came about:
When my publisher presented her idea for a multi-novella mystery series with a common theme, I balked at first. I was already working on something and didn’t want to take the time away from that. Then an idea formed. I had to write it.
I wanted to write a mystery without a body. Kind of a Nancy Drew sort of tale.
The setting was easy—just down the road. Now that the book is out, I can tell you it’s set in Kentucky’s bluegrass region. The beautiful Shelbyville, Kentucky, the saddlehorse capital of the world. Beautiful farms and horses populate the area. The town itself boasts many historical sites and places of interest. It still gives that small town vibe, though it’s growing by leaps and bounds.
I set the family in a beautiful home on a couple of acres. Brought in a landscaper who may or may not have something to do with the crime. My main character, a young woman still finding her way in the world, needs her Aunt Connie’s help. The level-headed Connie Wright helps maintain order when things get a little weird.
I love dogs and cats, so I included pets in the story. Not only do they provide occasional comic relief, but emotional support as well. And finally, I added a couple of unexpected romances, because one just wasn’t enough.
If I had it to do over, I may have included a body, because by the end of the story, I was ready to put someone out of their misery. But that was me. The main character and her mom had a different idea. One that I hope will inspire you.
About the Author:
Betty Thomason Owens was born in an Army hospital in the Pacific Northwest but grew up in California, Tennessee, and Kentucky. She loves a grand adventure, especially when there’s humor involved.
She is a writer of historical romance and romantic suspense, stories that often feature strong women dealing with difficult life situations. She and her husband, Bob, reside in Kentucky. They have three grown sons and seven grandchildren.
You can learn more about her at BettyThomasonOwens.com. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.