What do you do with a character who's terrible at everything?

Today's podcast guest, JL (Janet) Simpson, has a unique character on her hands, Daisy Dunlop. As you'll hear her describe, Daisy is terrible at everything. Which is an interesting foundation for a character in a mystery novel.

But, as with so many of us, after multiple failures at finding her vocation, Daisy finally discovers an occupation she can call her own.

In the intro, I mention that the shortlist for the Arthur Ellis Crime Writing awards were announced last Friday. You can click here to see the whole list. It's a great way to find new authors and books. The site also lists all the previous years' short lists and winners, so you can work you way backwards, if you like.

This episode of the podcast is sponsored by my cozy mystery novel, Horse With No Name.

Would you risk your life simply to be yourself?

Julia Thom is new to the small town of Horse, but she’s not new to trouble. When reclusive watchmaker James Hunter is beaten, but has no memory of the event, Julia vows to find the culprits. Even if Hunter hadn’t saved Julia herself from being assaulted, she would still be on the case; meddling helps keep her focus off her own complicated life. Julia is fast becoming a thorn in Police Constable Jack Merrick’s side and he flounders as he tries to figure out how to deal with such a headstrong woman.

When the attackers strike again and the violence escalates, Julia’s determination redoubles, putting herself in more danger than anyone could have anticipated. While Julia and Merrick grapple with finding unknown assailants, they must also find a way to come to terms with one another.

This novel is FREE for a limited time at all online vendors:

KOBO

Amazon

iTunes

Barnes and Noble

You can find out more about today's guest, J.L. Simpson, and all her books on her website JLSimpson.com. You can also find her on Twitter @JLSimpsonAuthor.

Press play (above) to listen to the show, or read the transcript below. Remember you can also subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts. And listen on Stitcher.

You can also click here to watch the interview on YouTube.

Transcription of Interview with J.L. Simpson

Alexandra: Hello mystery readers. I'm Alexandra Amor, this is It's a Mystery Podcast. I'm here today with J.L.Simpson. How are you Janet? Let me introduce you to our listeners.

Janet is an English rose who was transported to Australia by a giant nomad, and I'm going to have to ask about that a little bit later. She quickly adopted the accent and culture of her new home.

Written under the name of J.L.Simpson, her Daisy Dunlop mystery series, is set on the south coast of England where she grew up.