Cozy mystery author, Jennifer J. Chow, chats about her latest release, which launches today! Welcome, Jennifer!
Author Name: Jennifer J. Chow
Book Title: Mimi Lee Reads Between the Lines
Book Genre: Cozy mystery
Release Date: November 10, 2020
Publisher: Berkley
Please tell us about Mimi Lee Reads Between the Lines.
A Los Angeles pet groomer has to save her teacher sister from getting schooled by the police when an unexpected dead body turns up.
What sparked the idea for this book?
I wanted to showcase the tight sibling bond, and I know a lot of teachers, so I thought a school setting would be intriguing.
How long did it take to write and what sort of research did you do?
About a year. I did lots of (enjoyable) research on pet grooming for dogs, and even birds, in this novel. Plus, I got to do hands-on foodie research for the local restaurants and wonderful eats I mention in the book.
What drew you to the cozy mystery genre?
I like that justice gets served. It also doesn’t hurt to have humor…and sometimes a cute kitten or two!
For you, what’s the hardest thing about writing?
Doubt. Sometimes in the soggy middle of a manuscript, I feel panicked about drafting a story to its full potential. Eventually, I persevere and feel a sense of accomplishment at the end.
What do you love most about it?
I love envisioning new worlds and unique characters. Going on a journey with my protagonists is one of the best feelings in the world.
If you were speaking to someone who hasn’t read your writing before, why should they want to read Mimi Lee Reads Between the Lines?
It’s a lighthearted, enjoyable read with double the kitty fun. Publishers Weekly calls it “catnip for fans of talking cat cozies.”
I love that! Does your day job inform your novel writing in any way?
As a social worker, I traveled all over the Los Angeles area. I like to incorporate different neighborhoods and their unique vibes into my writing.
What are your interests outside of writing and reading?
I enjoy taking walks, going on hikes, and being in nature. During the lockdown, I’ve also revived a previous interest in watercolor painting.
Are you working on a new project?
I’m working on Book 3 in the Sassy Cat mystery series. There will be another exciting case for Mimi Lee and Marshmallow, her talking cat, to solve.
Where can readers find you?
Readers can follow my blog or sign up for my quarterly newsletter at www.jenniferjchow.com. I’m also on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram under @jenjchow.
Upcoming event: https://bksp.org/register-2/
Sunday, November 15th @ 7pm EST/4pm EST in The Back Room. I’m on a panel with Lucy Burdette, Alexia Gordon, and Jenn McKinlay. There will also be breakout rooms, which every author will visit after the panel. Cost of admission? All you need is a copy of a receipt from any indie bookstore.
Thank you, Jennifer! Mimi Lee Reads Between the Lines is available as of TODAY!
Mimi Lee Reads Between the Lines
When a local teacher is found dead, LA’s newest pet groomer Mimi Lee finds herself in a pawful predicament—with her younger sister’s livelihood on the line.
Mimi Lee is on top of the world. She has a thriving pet grooming business, the sweetest boyfriend, and a talking cat to boot. When she arrives at the elementary school where her sister Alice works, she’s expecting a fun girls’ night out—but instead finds a teacher slumped over in her car, dead.
Alice was the last one to see Helen Reed, which instantly marks her as the prime suspect. Unable to sit quietly and let the authorities walk all over her sister, Mimi starts snooping and talks to Helen’s closest contacts, including one jumpy principal, a two-faced fiancé, and three sketchy teachers. With the help of her sassy but savvy cat, Marshmallow, and a cute kitten named Nimbus, the clock’s ticking for Mimi to get to the bottom of yet another case before her sister gets schooled.
Author bio:
Jennifer J. Chow is the author of the hiss-terical A Sassy Cat Mystery series, the Winston Wong cozies, Dragonfly Dreams, and The 228 Legacy. She lives in Los Angeles, where she hunts for all things matcha. Connect with her online and sign up for her newsletter at www.jenniferjchow.com. You can also find her on social media under @jenjchow.