Q&A with C.B. Wilson

 

 

 

C.B. Wilson is the author of the new novel Puppied to Death, the latest in her Barkview Mysteries series. She lives in Peoria, Arizona.

 

Q: What inspired you to write this latest installment in your Barkview Mysteries series? 

 

A: The Barkview Mysteries series is set in Barkview, the dog-friendliest city in America. In this seaside, southern California town, designated leash lanes lead to Houd Playgrounds and every resident has a BFF (Best Furry Friend) except our heroine, Cat Hawl. The lone cat person in a town filled with over-the-top dog lovers makes for some hilarious adventures.  

 

In Puppied to Death, we follow Cat's quest to find her ideal canine companion, but the story delves much deeper. Now a newlywed, Cat feels the mounting pressure of starting a family, yet the timing never seems quite right.

 

Through the events that unfold, she must come to terms with her father's passing while discovering the true meaning and importance of family connections.

 

Q: The novel is set in Hawaii--how important is setting to you in your writing?

 

A: Hawaii has always been my happy place. Hawaii is my sanctuary. Each visit has etched unforgettable memories: horseback riding to a hidden waterfall in Maui, gliding alongside graceful rays while scuba diving off the Big Island, and that pivotal convertible Mustang drive through Kauai where my future husband and I realized our relationship was meant to last.

 

These profound moments inspired me to weave my heroine's backstory with the experiences I wish were my own.

 

I'm fortunate to have ohana in Ewa Beach on Oahu, allowing me frequent visits throughout the year. My brother has built his business there, and now my niece and nephew carry on our family's connection to the islands. Watching them embrace the warm aloha spirit has touched me deeply.

 

The lush landscapes, serene beaches, and ethereal rainbows bring me a peace I've found nowhere else. It felt natural for my heroine to return to this place that holds such a special place in my heart. And for those wondering - the Mahjong Mamas believe there are more island mysteries waiting to be uncovered.

Q: Do you usually know how your novels will end before you start writing them, or do you make many changes along the way?

 

A: I never decide who did it until the end. My favorite part of reading a mystery is being surprised at the “big reveal.” I make a lot of changes along the way, especially when the characters start talking to me. Let me assure you, Cat can be persistent. 

 

Q: Do you think Cat has changed over the course of the series?

 

A: Absolutely. Every book will add new depth to her personality and understanding of the world around her.

 

In Cavaliered to Death, Cat is terrified of dogs. By Doodled to Death (book 4), she has dog-sat for three different dog breeds and has discovered, much to her surprise, that she understands how people can be attached to a dog.

 

In Labradored to Death, she meets a real bat dog and experiences what incredible things a dog can be trained to do. Puppied to Death teaches Cat to appreciate puppy/children’s antics and prepares her for motherhood.

 

Q: What are you working on now?

 

A: I am working on a new series called Gem Hunters featuring Ore Dogs. These dogs can find diamonds 200 feet below the earth’s surface. Incredible, right?

 

Imagine this dog helping a diamond investigator locate lost or stolen jewelry for insurance companies. Oh, did I tell you the heroine’s absentee father is a jewel thief? This series is set in Sunset Peak, Arizona. It’s a blingaholic’s adventure about a woman searching for answers.

 

I haven’t abandoned Barkview. Retrievered to Death will be out in the late summer. Cat’s daughter is teething and her husband is missing, presumed dead. A Golden Retriever with an uncanny ability to show up just in time leads her to evidence that her husband may not really be dead.  

 

Q: Anything else we should know?

 

A: Thank you for asking. I want to thank my readers for all their comments and stories about their pets. Their experiences have enriched my writing and life. I’m all ears for your favorite dog story.

 

I am also an avid supporter of animal rescue. Many years ago, my couch potato mother adopted a Jack Russell Terrier. Her less-than-perfect relationship with her dog made me realize that with a little research, there is a proper dog for everyone. I wrote the Barkview series to help people understand the traits of each dog breed and find their soul mate.

 

--Interview with Deborah Kalb