Misty Simon Weaves Tales of Mystery and Romance with Heart and Humour

Crafting Characters, Solving Mysteries, Creating Inspiration

Award-winning author Misty Simon shares her inspiring journey into publishing, creative process, challenges, successes, and advice for aspiring writers while exploring the magic behind her cosy mysteries and heartwarming tales.

Misty Simon is a name that shines brightly in the world of contemporary fiction, particularly in the realms of cosy mysteries and romance. A storyteller of immense talent and determination, Misty’s journey into writing is as inspiring as the narratives she skillfully weaves. From her humble beginnings as an avid reader to her triumphant foray into published works, she embodies the spirit of perseverance and creativity, turning her love for happily-ever-afters into captivating novels that have delighted readers worldwide.

Over the years, Misty has showcased her versatility by crafting compelling series such as The Ivy Morris Mysteries and the much-loved Tallie Graver Mysteries. Her wit, warmth, and knack for intricate plotting draw us into vivid worlds filled with engaging characters, heartfelt themes, and delightful intrigue. As a proud member of Sisters in Crime, she continues to champion the art of storytelling while drawing strength from the camaraderie of her fellow writers.

In our exclusive interview, Misty shares her inspiring journey into publishing, the ups and downs that shaped her writing, and her creative process that breathes life into her characters and stories. Aspiring writers and fans alike will find both encouragement and insight in her words. Whether you’re discovering Misty Simon for the first time or are a long-time admirer of her work, this conversation promises to provide a deeper understanding of the passion and drive behind her successful career. Prepare to be enthralled by the creativity, resilience, and charm of one of our favourite authors!

Misty Simon enchants readers with her sharp wit, vivid imagination, and relentless determination, creating stories that resonate and inspire.

Can you share your journey to becoming a published author? What challenges and successes have you experienced along the way? I started writing in 1998 after realizing I was watching way too much television. I needed a hobby to save myself. I visited a used book store and fell back in love with reading. As I read though, I kept thinking maybe I could do this. So, I challenged myself to dive in and prove it. On my first computer, I opened Word and began a truly ridiculous novel that will never see the light of day.

Drums sounded; fireworks went off. But I never got past the first three chapters. I decided it must be easier to write Children’s Books because they were small and I could get my feet wet. Side note: they are not easier. I went back to the drawing board and racked up rejections for my attempts at romance like no one’s business.

“I decided that if I sold a full-length novel before a year was up, I could stay home and write.”Misty Simon

About that time, I also wrote articles showcasing Antique Cars for a magazine. My name was on something! Well, the name M. Simon Penner was since they wanted me to be a guy…

But it was addictive. Even as I continued getting rejections for my other submissions, I dreamed of writing novels. I entered a Writing Round Robin contest and won. I nearly fainted when I got the email. It came with an offer to send in one of my own manuscripts. I did, one with seven points of view – even the dog had a POV. They politely declined. So began my affair with rejections…

To learn more about the craft, I took one-day courses at the local college and read tons of how-to books. I got involved with other writers online. I was invited to submit for a book called Words of Wisdom from Our Grandparents. I ended up with an offer to be in the book but no money. I was rolling.

In one of my groups, they had a call for an online retailer of lingerie. They wanted a short piece using their inventory to entice someone to buy with the fantasy. I submitted and sold. My first real sale for actual money to someone I didn’t know! And I got to use my own name!

Next was a now defunct online mystery magazine called The Crimson Dagger. They bought my Death By Hair Product. Then I was invited into an anthology of paranormal erotic romance and another for retelling fairy tales. I was off and running.

Due to babysitting issues, I had to quit my job to stay home with our daughter so I wrote, promising myself if I sold a full-length novel before a year was up I could stay home and do this. I sold 362 days later in April of 2004, and The Ivy Morris Mysteries were born. I haven’t looked back since.

I continued writing and submitting, getting rejections and contracts. Working on my writing even though I have a full-time job again. I make that time because I love to share my stories and the people in them. I’ve published with traditional houses, small presses, and also on my own. My road has been long and full of twists and turns but they all led me here and I love it. When something goes wrong, I often yell “Plot Twist!” and figure out what comes next.

“The first draft should ALWAYS be messy so I don’t stop myself from writing whatever the characters are showing me is next.”Misty Simon

Your Tallie Graver Mystery series has been well-received by readers. What inspired you to create this series, and how do you develop your characters and plotlines? I really wanted to explore what happens when you come back after thinking you’d left forever and put it in my hometown with all our foibles and community. It’s a blast to tell Tallie’s stories about finding bodies and how she figures out whodunnit. I usually find ideas for who’s dying by reading newspapers or coming across interesting stories online. When I’m writing, it’s like I’m watching a movie and just transcribing it.

As a member of Sisters in Crime, how has this organization influenced your writing career, and what benefits have you gained from being part of this community? Being a part of an amazing organization like SinC opens up doors for you to interact with other people on this sometimes difficult journey, learn about trends in publishing, boost each other up in both good and bad times. Having cheerleaders and being a cheerleader are two huge things that have moved me along in my career and personally. SinC is awesome for every level of writing.

Could you discuss your writing process? For instance, do you have a specific routine, and how do you approach aspects like character development and world-building? I do something called Mindmapping, where I start with the reporter questions (who, what, where, why, when, and how), then make a list of suspects and scenes I’d like to include. I pick a part of myself that I’d like to explore and give it to my main character. Letting my mind run through all the scenarios, I write down anything that appeals to me, working out the issues as they arise to make sure I won’t write myself into a corner. With that done, I’ll write a timeline of the different points and scenes and how they connect. And then I dive in. The first draft should ALWAYS be messy so I don’t stop myself from writing whatever the characters are showing me is next.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors, especially those interested in writing cozy mysteries? Never give up. If you have a desire to write, then write, even on the difficult days. You have stories to tell and there are people out there who want to read them. In fact, they NEED to read them, so don’t stop, even when it feels like you’re running on a hamster wheel. You’ve got this! Show up and it will happen. There will be bumps and rejections and tough days, but write.

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