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Jonny Thompson Author Interview

In The Limestone Manor, a retired police detective makes his way back to his hometown only to find himself sharing quarters with six other retirees amid a murder mystery. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

Well, it was a handful of things that all came together at the right time. I had recently moved home for a bit and was spending time in St. Marys, and I’d been speaking to our local bookstore owner who had mentioned how fun it would be to have a story set in town. I’ve had the story of older residents all living together in a communal home in my back pocket for a long time. So it just became a matter of finding the right story to tell that would be fun to write. That’s when Clifford Shaw came into the mix, and I thought he was a perfect link for tying a fun story together.

I find all of the characters in your book to be incredibly engaging. Do you have a favourite character to write for?

Not really. I like them all, and I enjoy writing the different characters and understanding their dynamics. I have always been fascinated by how different people respond to different things. It’s what makes people unique. Though I will admit it was really fun to write Jan and Hans, since they are family and of different generations, and despite being very different people they share many similarities, and that family dynamic was really fun to play with.

What were some of your inspirations as a writer?

Obviously, my hometown was a big one here, it’s a special place for me for sure. I also find our relationship with aging to be an interesting concept. I don’t think it’s something that needs to be feared, since it is an inevitability, and fearing it can often stop us from living, which is a shame. I think the residents in The Limestone Manor embody these ideals to varying degrees and show that you can have fun at any age.

I find a problem in well-written stories, in that I always want there to be another book to keep the story going. Is there a second book planned?

Yes, absolutely! I want to continue to write these characters for as long as I can. I have outlines for at least the next two maybe three books, and I will be starting them soon.

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When retired police detective Clifford Shaw hesitantly steps off the train in his former hometown of St. Marys, Ontario, the last thing he expects to greet him is a murder. The only thing worse than being inadvertently roped into the investigation is the surprise he receives when the too-good-to-be-true room rental from his lifelong friend Hans has one massive catch. It’s in a shared house with six other retirees. Already hesitant about returning to the town he swore he never would, Cliff has one week to figure out if he wants to refuse the room or give his old town one last chance. All this while he helps unravel a mystery to save ‘The Town Worth Living In’.

The Limestone Manor

In The Limestone Manor, author Jonny Thompson invites readers into the quaint town of St. Marys, Ontario, through the eyes of Clifford Shaw, a retired detective who finds himself embroiled in a murder mystery. Shaw’s return to his hometown, a place he once vowed to leave behind, is marked by an unexpected stay at Limestone Manor, a residence filled with lively retirees. Thompson skillfully blends suspense and humor, crafting a cozy mystery that navigates the intricate twists of small-town secrets.

Clifford Shaw emerges as a compelling protagonist, whose initial reluctance to embrace change and his introspective musings on life’s journey add depth to his character. As Shaw stumbles upon a murder, his journey takes an intriguing turn with his new, unconventional roommates at Limestone Manor playing a pivotal role.

Thompson’s talent for character development shines as he introduces a diverse cast of supporting characters, each contributing to the novel’s rich tapestry with their distinct quirks and personalities. The narrative’s strength lies in the dynamic between the Manor’s residents as they transform from mere roommates into a cohesive unit, tackling the mystery together. Their interactions create a blend of suspicion and camaraderie, making every character both a potential suspect and a likable ally. This unique dynamic propels the story toward an unexpected yet satisfying conclusion, keeping readers thoroughly engaged.

The Limestone Manor is a multifaceted tale that resonates on multiple levels. It is not only an engrossing mystery but also a poignant reflection on community, aging, and the concept of home. Thompson’s writing transcends generational boundaries, offering a fresh perspective on elder characters that is both entertaining and enlightening. This book is an excellent choice for mystery enthusiasts of all ages, providing a delightful escape into a world where every twist is as surprising as it is enjoyable. Thompson’s work is a testament to his storytelling prowess, leaving readers eagerly anticipating his future literary offerings.

Pages: 266 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CMK6FQPH

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