“Deferred” began, as many of my short stories do, as a situation in search of character (other stories arise as character in search of situation). Originally titled “The Piper,” I realized the plot was a hoary one, in need of much creativity to bring a new spin to outwitting the devil. So often, the protagonist wins, or at least gets a draw, because of their natural homespun wisdom. I knew I had to vary that so I chose an educated protagonist, one used to dealing with the cleverest and most devious opponents. For Andrew, it was time to “pay the piper,” but what if he embraced the challenge rather than the normal cycle of refusal, denial and victory/defeat? The bones of the story were quickly fleshed in early drafts, I asked a lawyer acquaintance to set me right on legal assumptions, revised again, and submitted to my wonderful critique group for their vetting. Another revision, then off to market. And finally, acceptance by AHMM! Right on the heels of an acceptance by its sister magazine, Analog. Good month.
My mystery influences range from hard-boiled Hammett, Chandler, John D. MacDonald; to soft-boiled Harry Palmer, Archy McNally (the inspiration for my own Feet of Clay mystery novels); to British cozies. My expanded reading is mainly in science fiction and heroic fantasy. Five of my SF novels are Noir-ish, combining two favorite genres. My first published fantasy novel, Barnaby’s Luck, is more anti-hero driven, inspired by the concept of how would characters relying on brain and guile survive barbaric times?
My writing process is simple: Write every day. The words and ideas which flow sitting at the desktop or with a notebook and clipboard in our sunroom, are often unexpected and delight me no end. These unbidden creative gems may be the highlight of my labors (the other great reward is seeing my words in print, knowing an editor shares my vision). When I’m not writing, I’m thinking. Or running. Or exploring our corner of Vancouver Island on foot or up on two wheels (powered).
Trace Evidence 