When I decided to interview the characters in my debut novel, Pocket Change, I thought it might be a fun to start with my main character, Mary Clare Casteel (Mac). After all, the woman just won eleven million dollars! She’s building her dream business and selling books, antiques, primitives, and her cousin’s line of Funderwear among other oddities. In her small town of Pocket, Arkansas, things are great…right up until she finds a dead body in her showcase casket.
Allow me to introduce the main character of Pocket Change: Mary Clare Casteel.
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Me: So, Mary Clare, tell us about yourself. Have you worked anywhere before?
Mary Clare: Are you kidding? After Daddy died, it was just Mama and me. She worked hard teaching fifth grade, but when I got old enough, I wanted to help out. I ‘ve worked in all kinds of places–most of them good. I worked in Mr. Chick-a-Boom’s Chicken Palace all through college. It’s a great place, but if I never have to see another chicken liver I’ll be a happy camper.
Me: Interesting. You said you went to college. What did you study?
Mary Clare: Education. I became a children’s librarian.
Me: That’s cool. Do you miss it?
Mary Clare: I DO! I really miss my students. They were amazing. But, now that I’m opening Pocket Change, I’ll have a chance to see them when they visit our store. They’re one of the reasons, Mama (who is now my business partner) and I included a fun area called the Children’s Chamber. It’s full of books, games, toys, and even a reading bar with a Book Barista named Molly.
Me: That sounds awesome! I wondered if you could talk to us about…um, Mary Clare, where are you going? Our interview isn’t over.
Mary Clare: I am SO sorry. Did you hear that?
Me: I didn’t hear anything.
Mary Clare: Could we pick this up in a day or so? I’d love to tell you more, but, someone’s in the shop. And we’re closed.
Me: I heard a thud.
Mary Clare: And a scream!
Me: Mary Clare…Someone’s coming down the stairs. MARY CLARE!
*Note: This interview has been rescheduled for a later (and safer time). I’m on my way to the police, and Mac is running next door to get her handsome new neighbor.
The Secret to Writing:
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