Starting a new series is always exciting. New characters, new setting, figuring out a new plot, making sure the dialogue works with the characters – so many things to think about, but in the long run it is a lot of fun, albeit also a lot of work.
The Wine Bar Mysteries, my latest series, just kicked off with the publication of Chardonnay in the Afternoon, a book that introduces the reader to the Mont Dubois Inn and Wine Bar located in the mountains north of my hometown, Montreal. The family-run inn is built beside the lake and has been there for over 75 years.
Unfortunately, as the book opens, Adele Dubois, part owner of the hotel, is found dead in the lake and her granddaughter, Lacey McVey, gets involved in working with local detective Martin Auclair to discover who killed her and why.
I based the setting on various places and hotels I have visited and stayed at over the years. Mont Dubois is perfect for a mystery series. In addition to a lake, which can have its own perils, there’s a mountain ski area, plus hiking, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling trails – in short plenty of places for a murder mystery to play out.
Why the title? Because chardonnay was Adele’s favourite wine and she dropped into the wine bar every afternoon for her glass of wine and some bar food, such as sliders and bacon-wrapped scallops. The last time she was seen before she is murdered was at the wine bar after enjoying her regular order.
Chardonnay in the Afternoon, Book 1 of The Wine Bar Mysteries, is available on amazon in ebook and paperback format and also in Kindle Unlimited. Get it here.
Hope you enjoy the read!
