Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am delighted that my first novel, Murder on Madeline Island: An Emily Swift Travel Mystery has been published by Cozy Cat Press. This novel kicks off a series that will feature an intrepid reporter who finds herself embroiled in crime as she writes travel articles. Like my fictional heroine, I love to travel and learn about the history, art and culture of other cities and countries. My lifelong love of travel began when I was eight years old and lived in Milan, Italy with my family. It was an unforgettable year of travel—skating in St. Moritz, visits to Sforza Castle, gondola rides, Easter Sunday in Florence, and tours of art museums. Now my husband and I get away for two or three fabulous weeks every other year.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Murder on Madeline Island: An Emily Swift Travel Mystery is set on the most popular of the Apostle Islands in Lake Superior. This was a natural choice for me because members of my writing group have been going to there for many years to review each other’s work, sail and hike. I really enjoyed writing about places we’ve been such as Tom’s Burnt Down Café, Big Bay State Park and the Madeline Island Museum. I think readers will enjoy learning about the island.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Like most writers, I just keep at it.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I really enjoy and have been influenced by the mysteries of Katherine Hall Page. Reading these witty and charming novels is a perfect way to relax after a busy day.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on the next novel in the Emily Swift travel series. I won’t give away the plot by saying who goes with her to a beautiful tropical island, but it’s fun to write about.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Since my book has just been published, I’m still looking for ways to promote my book. I do have a website and have started to blog. I’ve also joined Sisters in Crime and Twin Cities Sisters in Crime to network and find out what has worked for other authors.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t give up. Keep sending your book out to agents and publishers. It’s no fun, but when you get published, it’s worth it.
What are you reading now?
I just finished reading Lovers at the Chameleon Club Paris 1932 and look forward to a fascinating discussion with my book group about this novel set in bohemian Paris during the Nazi occupation. And I’ve just started reading the delightful Rise and Shine by Anna Quindlen.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m going to continue writing the Emily Swift travel series and explore locations for the settings of future novels.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare
The Complete works of Jane Austen
David Copperfield by Charles Dickens
Author Websites and Profiles
Lorrie Holmgren Website
Lorrie Holmgren Amazon Profile
Lorrie Holmgren’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile