Under the Cocoon Moon: An Olivia Penn Mystery by Kathleen Bailey | Author Interview

My pleasure. Great to be with you in the Cozy Corner today!

Tell us a little about yourself.

I write mysteries with heart and humor that keep to the cozy and traditional sides of crime. Prior to becoming a full-time author, I worked as a pediatric physical therapist for over twenty years with children who have special needs. TMI tidbits: The Great British Bake Off is appointment TV for me, I’ve eaten an apple every day for almost thirty years, and my kitty completely dictates my schedule.

How long have you been writing?

I’ve been writing in one form or another all my life. I began writing with the intent to publish in 2019, and my first book was published in 2021.

Did you always want to be an author? What made you choose the cozy mystery genre?

I’ve always wanted to be an author since I was in the first grade. I was an avid reader and writer growing up. As life goes, there were many twists and turns along the way, but I never lost the dream. When the timing and opportunity came along to pursue this path, I went for it. I love the cozy mystery genre both as a reader and a writer. The tone of the genre suits my author voice, and I enjoy writing twisty mysteries that are fun, uplifting, and provide an escape.

Do you prefer to read cozy mystery books, or do you have another favorite genre? What are you reading now?

I read widely across genres, but I do prefer cozy mysteries. I have some favorite authors who write outside the genre, and I’d read anything they’d write. Right now, I’m reading Paige Shelton’s Alaska Wild Series.

Do you have a favorite place to write?

My workspace is in my living room where I have a view of my front yard. I’m nearby all the essentials: food, water, and a bathroom. My kitty is always around either wanting me to play with her or looking adorable while taking her afternoon catnap.

What’s on your desk (if you write at one!)?

My desk is quite small, so it only has room for my laptop and mouse. I have an identical desk just off to my side on which I have a lamp, sticky notes, my notebooks that I use to plot, pens, a reference book, and my thermos of water.

What is the first book you remember reading as a child? What was one of your favorite books you read as a child?

The first “book” I remember reading was a Playskool Little Red Riding Hood Cloth Doll Story book. One of my favorite books in my very early days was Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak. This book would always be among my weekly library hauls. I hardly ever reread the story, but the illustrations captured my imagination. They were so unique, and I made up my own stories to go along with them.

Do you like audiobooks, physical books, or e-books better? Why?

E-books. I do most of my reading in the mornings while I’m working out, which partially involves riding a stationary bike. I prop a tablet on the display console and read away.

If you had the opportunity to live anywhere in the world for a year while writing a book that took place in that same setting, where would you choose?

This is tough. Naturally, my mind drifts to some exotic locales where the waves are gentle, and the sunsets are stunning. But for an entire year, I would have to choose some place where there are four true seasons. I live in Virginia, and I love experiencing the change in seasons: the coziness of fall, the chill of winter during the holidays, the fresh blooms and sweet breezes of spring, and the warming sunshine of summer days. So, I think I’d stick close to home, just maybe head a little further west in the state to where there is some beautiful farm and ranch land. I could roam over the hills and be surrounded by lots of animals.

What or who has influenced you the most as a writer?

My life experience has influenced me the most. I believe nothing is ever wasted, and all that I’ve experienced has made me who I am today.

Do you have any author friends who support you while you’re writing? Do you belong to any writing groups?

I belong to Sisters in Crime. This is an international, inclusive organization for readers and authors in the crime, thriller, mystery, and suspense genres. The organization is composed of local chapters whose members are wonderfully supportive. I also belong to the James River Writers, which is a community of writers in Virginia.

Finally, what are you working on now? Can you tell us a bit about it?

I’m working on book 4 in The Olivia Penn Mystery Series. It’s a bit too soon to give you the scoop on it, but it’s shaping up to be another wild adventure for Olivia.

Thank you again for taking the time to answer my questions!

Thanks for having me!