Nancy Basile is...On the Writing Block!

Are you ready to hear about this next book? Hang on a second, though, as we look at just who is Nancy?

Award-winning author Nancy Basile grew up in the hills of West Virginia, scraping her knees, and dreaming about becoming a murder mystery writer.

Now, she's bringing West Virginia to life in the pages of the River Sutton Mysteries. Her second book in the River Sutton Mysteries, "A Fatal Fumble," won BookFest's LGBTQ+ Mystery Award, and took 2nd place for both Cozy Mystery and Amateur Sleuth.

What is your ultimate goal as an author?

To sell a lot of books! That might seem obvious or superficial. However, I don’t want to get rich, although making a tidy enough sum to supplement my husband’s retirement would be nice. I’m more interested in having lots and lots of people read and enjoy my books. Sue me, but I live for approval! And I absolutely love connecting with readers. When I go to book signings or conventions, I love nothing more than talking books with the folks who stop by my table. So much fun!

Who are two authors that have inspired your writing?

Agatha Christie and Louise Penny. I read all of Agatha Christie’s books in my teenage years and early twenties. There’s no one better at writing mysteries. And she was able to write such different types of books within a genre. The way she can weave clues in a story and deftly write characters is inspirational. I admire Louise Penny because she can write with such insight into the human psyche and experience. Her books walk the line between light and dark very well. She’s serious when she needs to be, but her books never fall into a dark vibe. Her characters are all well-written, some endearing, some repulsive, but all three-dimensional and human.

Do you always know who the killer is, or do your characters surprise you in the end?

I always know who the killer is. I could never be a pantser. I don’t know how those folks do it. I outline my books, not to the finest detail, but close. Otherwise, I’m lost! However, I have had to make some big changes in my books after the first draft is finished and I’ve had a think, or my editor has read it. But the killer never changes.

Do you prefer pen and paper, or computer for writing?

I actually prefer a combination. When I’m outlining a book or brainstorming, I prefer to work with pen and paper. There’s something about the kinetic and tactile experience that helps my thoughts flow. Also, recently, I’ve begun journaling before I work on a book. The “brain dump” seems to help get me in the flow and clear out the clutter, so to speak. The actual writing of my books happens on the computer. I can type much, much faster (and neater!) than I can write. Plus, I find that apps and technology are extremely helpful for me, in terms of keeping things straight and helping me organize my books.

What is Roadside Homicide about?

A small-town cozy mystery starring a smart young female sleuth and a clean second chance romance with the sheriff, her high school crush.

Robin Pearce is nervous about returning home to the small town of River Sutton. Although she's excited for her sister's wedding, she hasn't seen her high school classmates in years. All her old insecurities are squeezing the air from her lungs like a too-small bodycon dress.

On her way home, she almost runs over a bloody man who collapses in the road. He speaks his last words to her and Robin promises to carry on his message, even though she has no idea who to give it to.

Although Sheriff Chris Payne--former high school quarterback and Robin's crush--warns her away from the investigation, she made a promise she just won't break. And when her childhood BFF becomes a suspect, she has no choice but to find the killer.

Between dress fittings, a cake crisis, and fueling up on caffeine, Robin puts her web skills to work, uncovering clues about the murder. Can she track down the killer before the Sheriff puts her friend behind bars? Or the dangerous killer strikes again?