Philip MacDonald’s Mystery at Friar’s Pardon opens with a careful introduction to the man who will become our amateur sleuth, Charles Fox-Browne. MacDonald takes his time. He wants us to understand Browne before sending him to Friar’s Pardon, where he will say very little and observe a great deal. A wise move—there is much to… Continue reading Mystery at Friar’s Pardon
I've finished a solid draft of the second story. Looking back at my post announcing the idea, I noticed that it took about one month to write. That makes me happy. It means I've done consistent work and my process of outlining has gone smoothly. I do have a few issues with it. One more… Continue reading November Update
This blog has never been what you’d call “regular.” I’m an author, not a blogger, and the only real reason this thing exists is to share the occasional update or bit of news. Does that help build an audience? Absolutely not. Every now and then, I’ve also posted a review. And in the short, uneven… Continue reading Murder Mansion (no, not that one, the other one) 1928 — Herman Landon
I'm satisfied with the cover. I could fret over it longer, but it does what I wanted and it pleases my eye. Of course, if Matt had been able to continue on the project, it would have turned out better. This was an early bit of work he did. But then, he is an artist.… Continue reading The final step
The last story of It's About Impossible Crime (2025) is coming along and I'm making notes for the final edits on the other four. I like this short story process, i.e. writing a story and then putting it aside to work on another one. It's good to step away and return with fresh eyes. There's… Continue reading Early cover thoughts
James Scott Byrnside 