Mean Cuisine follows a woman who signs up for culinary school and finds herself in the middle of a mystery complete with a dead chef, a psychic investigator, and black cat who can foresee danger. What do you find to be the most rewarding aspect of writing a mystery series?

I know a few things before I start writing—I know my protagonist, I know the initial problem she faces that starts the book, and I know how the book will end—at least this is what I used to say. Having gained a good bit of writing experience since, however, I’ve learned the book never ends the way I think it will, and that’s part of the fun writing a mystery. Since I don’t write from an outline each book in the series means I learn new things about my protagonist, her family, and her closest friends. I also get to meet new eccentric characters. And best of all, writing in an improvisational way I get to experience the story closer to the way a reader might.

The friendship between Beluga and Tanya gives the story so much energy. How important are friendships in shaping your mysteries?

Beluga and Tanya have been friends since they were little girls. At one point their paths diverted leading to experiences that made them who we see in the series. So, while they each learn a little about each other in the books, they also fall into their old comfortable habits through banter and one-upmanship. Friendships like that between Beluga and Tanya push a story forward, and they are great fun to write. I can hear the two in my mind going at each other, but with a deep love underlying all the chaos. Beluga has also cultivated friendships with others, and relationships with her daughter and the always elusive ME.

The cluricaun adds an especially playful supernatural layer. What inspired you to include that kind of folklore creature in the story?

Beluga is a hit-or-miss psychic, and even though her cat, Planchette, is a much better psychic, adding a supernatural entity to the mix really confounds everyone. Beluga will respond one way, Planchette might respond differently, and everyone else becomes wildcards in what they say, do, or even believe in the situation. Plus, there are some really fascinating (and frightening) supernatural beings in folklore from all over the world, so there’s plenty to explore. A cluricaun for this book seemed particularly appropriate since these creatures love to drink and tend to hang around places that have alcohol, like wine.

What can fans of The Beluga Stein Mysteries expect to see in the next installment?

In progress is Bit Players. Beluga is strapped for money from her day job as a biology professor so gets roped into directing a musical version of Romeo and Juliet at the local community theater. To make matters worse, Tanya has signed Beluga on to a dating site and has made a few dates on Beluga’s behalf. There’s murder on stage and off, and all before the curtain rises!

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