What was your life like before your author started pulling your strings?
Boring. As in not interesting. Let me tell you about an average day being secretary to a famous etiquette author when that author is your brother. Three phone calls to set up talks with a gardening group, a tea club, and a preservation society. Seven letters to translate from Edward’s personal shorthand. One hour arguing with my brother over the need to do social media. I’ll stop now because it’s too painful. So, an occasional murder spices things up. Not that I want people to die. I’m not a barbarian. It’s just, if they’re going to die anyway, why not take an interest in solving the crime?
What’s the one trait you like most about yourself?
My phenomenal memory, which is second only to Edward’s.
What do you like least about yourself?
Since I’m a man and don’t spend time focusing on my flaws, I don’t have a ready answer for you.
What is the strangest thing your author has had you do or had happen to you?
She tried to get me to dress up in a Robin Hood costume for a charity event. Didn’t happen. I’m not putting on tights. Ever.
Do you argue with your author? If so, what do you argue about?
In one book, the killer drugged me and was about to clobber me with a cane until Edward saved the day. While I appreciate that he got there in time, it’s embarrassing. I would prefer to do my own fighting. And if she could erase the incident from my brother’s memory, he’d stop bringing it up.
What is your greatest fear?
Living out of my car. After losing everything to an unscrupulous business partner, I came darn close. It was lucky for me Edward’s secretary quit just then. Now I have a job and a place to live.
What makes you happy?
A job well done. Edward may not give me all the credit that’s due me, but I know when I’ve nailed it.
If you could rewrite a part of your story, what would it be? Why?
It’s pathetic how I keep falling for the wrong women. Murder victims. Murderers. Targets of murderers who think I’m a jinx. I wish Jacqueline would either give me a live, honest woman to hang out with or make me a priest.
Of the other characters in your book, which one bugs you the most? Why?
You need to ask? Claudia Inglenook is the original harpy. Before she entered the scene in book one, Edward and I were getting on fine. After years of ignoring each other, we had formed a brotherly bond. We were a team. Now, instead of coming to me for my opinion, Edward turns to his girlfriend. Claudia interferes. I hope to high Heaven he never marries her.
Of the other characters in your book, which one would you love to trade places with? Why?
You might think I’d say Edward. You’d be wrong. Edward has responsibilities I wouldn’t care to take on. Plus, there’s Claudia. Have I mentioned she’s a soulless harpy? I have great admiration for my brother, but I like being me.
Tell us a little something about your author. Where can readers find her website/blog?
My author is a nice lady with control issues. She writes another series about a pet psychic, which is nuts. Unlike my brother, Edward, Jacqueline embraces the internet. She has a website at jacquelinevick.com, and she even plays around on Instagram. Her handle is jacquelinevick.author. And I’ve seen her blog about other writers on her website. In fact, aren’t you the featured author right now, Lois?
What's next for you?
Trouble of my own making. After I post pictures of Edward capturing the killer at Inglenook, (thanks for the photos, Josh!) Field Press reconsiders publishing his sports-themed book. I don’t blame him for trying to fit in with the other sports reporters down at Telly’s Bar, but his Aunt Civility persona has become so ingrained, he comes across as a boob. And then somebody dies. Somebody always dies.
A Harlow Brothers Mystery, Book 3
When Edward Harlow, ghost writer of the Aunt Civility etiquette books, is guest of honor at a costume ball for charity, the fun ends when his Zorro sword is discovered buried in the back of an obnoxious guest. While Nicholas Harlow scrambles to clear his brother's name, he comes up against suspects and motives he’d rather not reveal. Then he discovers a secret that could mean the end of Aunt Civility.
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I just talked to Nicholas, and he said how much he enjoyed chatting with you, Lois. Edward usually gets all the attention. Thanks for having us both on your blog today.
ReplyDeleteLois says to tell Nicholas she enjoyed the interview as well, Jacqueline.
ReplyDelete