What's Next for Brad Frame

I've finally launched FINAL JUROR, and I'm already working on my next project.

It's called EMBALMED. A provocative title, but aptly named since the story involves a search for a killer who embalms his victims.

A friend of mine described the cover as "creeeeeeeepppyyyy." It is that, but hopefully it will draw readers to at least try the opening.

Those of you who have read the Brad Frame mystery series know that in addition to Brad and his assistant, Sharon Porter, that there are recurring characters. One of those is Nick Argostino, Brad's friend and mentor. He has been in every one of the stories. He plays a key role in this one as well, since his career is in jeopardy and Brad and Sharon step in to help.

As is the case in real life, when our lives are put under stress we can see what we are made of as we roll up our sleeves to tackle the problem at hand. In EMBALMED, when Nick's life comes under stress, it is only natural that Brad and Sharon would jump in with both feet to resolve the problem.

The reader gets to come along for the ride. Detective fiction is all about solving problems, doing it in a methodical way, and sharing just enough information with the reader that they can develop a sense of what the outcome might be.

It's why I love writing mysteries. Hopefully, you enjoy reading them. You can check out all of my books at www.rayflynt.com.

Imagining the First Brad Frame Movie

No. I haven't gone "Hollywood" - YET. But I can dream, can't I?

One of my favorite experiences at a book signing involved the person who approached the table at which I sat, my fresh-off-the-press books arrayed neatly in front of me. I smiled at the man, and avoided launching into a hard sell. "Feel free to have a look," I said, gently, so as not to scare him off. I urged him to pick up a copy and peruse. He did. I watched as he flipped through the first few pages, and then read the plot summary on the back.

Then he placed the book back on the table and said, "Looks interesting. I think I'll wait for the movie to come out."

I sighed inside, and tried hard to keep a smile on my face. I don't think that there has ever been a mystery writer who hasn't dreamed of seeing one of his or her books optioned for a Hollywood blockbuster, Movie of the Week, or perhaps just adapted as an episode of a popular crime drama. The reality is that lightning doesn't strike nearly that often.

But, I can dream, can't I? Yeah, I know I already said that. :-)

One of the techniques I use as I write is to picture the action as it might be seen through the lens of a camera. Viewpoint is important in writing, and whether I'm using first- or third-person (I use both) it is important for me to "see" what the protagonist sees. It makes it easier to bring the scene to life on the page.

I did dip my big toe into the movie making world once when I created a short video to promote UNFORGIVING SHADOWS, the first book in my Brad Frame series. That story helped to set up why Brad Frame had become a detective.

Lights, camera, action... this one minute video may be the only Brad Frame movie you'll ever see.

Promotional Video for UNFORGIVING SHADOWS