GUEST BLOG: ELIZABETH MEANS

My Two Biggest Author Influences

Writers by our very nature tend to be voracious readers and I’m no exception. There’s nothing I love more than to get lost in a book. But it can’t be just any book, it needs to be great. I’m a monogamous reader, I prefer to stick with one story until the end and before I start on a new one. No popping in and out of two or three different books at the same time. That only leaves me confused. But if a book isn’t really good, remaining faithful is tough to do.

I’ve discovered two stellar authors over the years who I know I can count on to keep me hooked until the very last page. I think I’ve read just about all of their books and I as a result, I believe (hope!) their writing styles have strongly influenced mine.

#1 AMANDA QUICK

Probably my biggest influence, this woman really knows how to write a romantic mystery. She develops each character to the fullest and seamlessly weaves multiple sub-plots into the main plot. She strikes an amazing balance between romance and mystery, both equally as prominent in her stories. Most importantly – she keeps me guessing until the end. I’ve often found myself reading her books until the wee hours of the night, eyes drooping and head rolling to the side, still unable to put the book down because I have to know what happens next.

#2 MARY HIGGINS CLARK

Just like Amanda, Mary’s books flow amazingly smoothly between the main plot and the sub-plots. Every single little tidbit and clue she lays down serves a purpose, and that is to both entertain and build suspense as the end of the book draws nearer. Although her stories are not as heavy on romance as Amanda’s, there is often still an element of it in them. Her plot twists always keep me guessing and I must admit some of her books are so intense I find myself turning on lights and looking over my shoulder after reading a few chapters! She’s just that good.

I can only hope some of the skill of these two incredible writers has rubbed off on me. I know I’m certainly looking forward to their next new releases. If you haven’t read anything by either of them I highly recommend giving their books a try – you won’t be disappointed!

-Elizabeth Means
www.Elizabeth-Means.com

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Lord Julian Blackwell is a survivor. After his father’s bankruptcy, he becomes a self-made man in Victorian England’s booming industrial era. Trapped into a loveless marriage, he has survived the shock of his wife’s sudden death. But now he must survive rumors and outright accusations. Hiring a private agency to investigate and prove his innocence seems like a good idea…until desire threatens to compromise both the case and the life of the investigator.

A Bit About Me:I live in the Midwest with my wonderful husband. When I’m not reading or writing, other hobbies I enjoy include hiking, biking, and chocolate. Not necessarily in that order.

While I enjoy many genres, I’m particularly drawn to Victorian era romance stories that are fueled by forbidden love and quite often…murder. The foggy streets, swirling coat tails and foreboding castles make it a difficult one to resist.

I have an undergraduate degree in biology and a half-finished master’s degree in business. Strange how I can’t ever seem to find the time or energy to complete the degree but I can find plenty of both to write 250+ page novels…

Comments

  1. I love Amanda Quick. I have never read Mary Higgins Clark. I am going to have to try her out.
    debby236 at gmail dot com

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