C.L. Bauer's Blog
February 28, 2023
Preparing For A New Series
As I launch a new book, The Haunted Lost Rose, and introduce a new series, Charlotte's Voices of Mystery, I get those butterflies...of fear, relief, and joy!
Every time a new book is released I'm afraid no one will enjoy it; I'm relieved the process of editing is over; and I'm filled with joy that despite all the uncertainty I did it!
This new series ventures away from my comfort zone. I'm still featuring my home town of Kansas City, Missouri, but I'm totally on a different route with new characters, romance turned up a few degrees, and ghosts. Yes, ghosts.
As a little girl I was always mesmerized by some of the beautiful historic mansions in our city. I loved the architecture, the beauty of a fine piece of wood work, the glamour of ornate chandeliers, and the rumors of hauntings. I believed, and over the years had a few unexplained encounters.
My main female character, Charlotte, can speak with the dead. She's not certain on how it all works even though she's been carrying on conversations with those from beyond since she was young. Some spirits act as guides, and others are just annoying.
Charlotte is at a crossroads in her life (aren't we all?) but she may not realize it. She's content with her career. Her social life could use a little punch, but she has the love of her family to keep her in the warm. Is that enough?
I'm not sure my main character sees that a considerable amount of change is about to occur in her life, but each time I have a release, I always feel that change. Deep down, I'm always shoving out into the universe little pieces of myself. That's always scary revealing your inner thoughts, but the challenge can be oh so rewarding.
So what do I really do when a new book is in a reader's hands? Cheers to a glass of wine and a really good meal!
Every time a new book is released I'm afraid no one will enjoy it; I'm relieved the process of editing is over; and I'm filled with joy that despite all the uncertainty I did it!
This new series ventures away from my comfort zone. I'm still featuring my home town of Kansas City, Missouri, but I'm totally on a different route with new characters, romance turned up a few degrees, and ghosts. Yes, ghosts.
As a little girl I was always mesmerized by some of the beautiful historic mansions in our city. I loved the architecture, the beauty of a fine piece of wood work, the glamour of ornate chandeliers, and the rumors of hauntings. I believed, and over the years had a few unexplained encounters.
My main female character, Charlotte, can speak with the dead. She's not certain on how it all works even though she's been carrying on conversations with those from beyond since she was young. Some spirits act as guides, and others are just annoying.
Charlotte is at a crossroads in her life (aren't we all?) but she may not realize it. She's content with her career. Her social life could use a little punch, but she has the love of her family to keep her in the warm. Is that enough?
I'm not sure my main character sees that a considerable amount of change is about to occur in her life, but each time I have a release, I always feel that change. Deep down, I'm always shoving out into the universe little pieces of myself. That's always scary revealing your inner thoughts, but the challenge can be oh so rewarding.
So what do I really do when a new book is in a reader's hands? Cheers to a glass of wine and a really good meal!
April 26, 2021
Stilettos Can Be Murder
Have you ever wondered how someone walks in six inch heels? Obviously, very carefully! In my latest novel, Gretchen Malloy wears stilettos as though it's an art form. She's a fifty-ish elite event coordinator in Kansas City who literally walks over a dead groom on his wedding day and is framed for his murder. Although, my family's wedding and event flower business has many stories to tell, not one of us have ever tripped over a dead groom! Nor, have we ever worn heels like that when decorating or carrying boxes full of flowers. BUT, my mother did wear heels! She had the best legs. No, I was not blessed with those long beauties. I'm built for the long walk, and perhaps playing center on a football team. My main character is classy, over-the-top, and can be irritating. But, when in trouble, Gretchen doesn't swoon. She begins an investigation to save herself, her business, and her future. I'd like to be like Gretchen. I'd like to be her age and be free to be, well her. And I'd love to wear heels. At only five feet tall, just a few inches would make me happy. If you're looking for a quick, fun read, pick up Gretchen's story and discover why Stilettos Can Be Murder. Remember, there's nothing wrong with a good pairs of flats or sneakers!
February 1, 2019
Weddings And More Weddings
Did you realize as you read The Poppy Drop that all the wedding stories are based on real events and real bridal stories? Some may seem outrageous, you know the one I'm talking about, but they all did happen. My family's business has taken care of wedding flowers for almost six generations. There's a lot more stories to come in The Lily List Mystery Series. The beginning calamity that happens to Lily is also based on a true event that happened to a real florist. I hope The Poppy Drop was an enjoyable read...I think it's perfect for the beach. Wish I were there right now...the polar vortex is not my friend! Happy reading!
January 30, 2019
2019
Writing has been my great love for my entire life...don't all writers say that? Publishing a book is what an author does when they've convinced themselves that they are willing to take a risk and let others see their writing. The last few months of 2018 saw my goal achieved with THE POPPY DROP. 2019 will bring two more books in The Lily List Mystery Series and I'll be working on one more for 2020. In the meantime, there's so many other stories to tell. I do need to sleep though. I can't wait to see what this year holds. I've already participated in a book club meeting with some wonderful readers and they can't wait for book number two...THE HIBISCUS HEIST. As much as I enjoy and love writing in my office, all alone, I'm having a great time meeting some of my readers and I can't wait for that to continue. I'll be out around the nation, traveling to a couple of book festivals and some private events. Book Clubs...I'm available and I love to meet you. The Poppy Drop: A Lily List Mystery
