Milda Harris, author of Adventures in Funeral Crashing, has been so gracious and kind enough to agree to be featured on the blog for a short Q & A. Below are some of the questions I asked her based on my reading experience of the book and what I was curious to know. Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below!
Q: Why did you decide to do this book as a mystery comedy instead of romantic comedy?
Milda Harris: Adventures in Funeral Crashing was originally written for the 3 Day Novel Contest. The mystery aspect was an idea I had because mysteries have so many twists and turns. Thus, it seemed like a good idea to add into a story I wanted to write very quickly. Besides, I needed something interesting to happen to Kait. A simple romance between her and Ethan didn't seem like enough. So, since Kait has experienced tragedy herself, I also thought a murder mystery might help her start to face her own issues.
Q: How did you come up with the topic of funeral crashing?
Milda Harris: I actually started talking about professional mourners with my mother after a wake. My mother was mentioning how there are some old women who show up to all the funerals. That made my brain go: what if a teenager did that? Why would she? That sounds like a great idea for a story!
Q: Which character do you think left a lasting impression on the reader?
Milda Harris: I definitely think Kait leaves a lasting impression on the reader because she's different. She crashes funerals. That's weird and very memorable. Also, Kait doesn't feel like she fits in, which I think strikes a cord with many teenagers.
Q: What goal do you have as a writer? What do you want to be known for?
Milda Harris: As a writer I simply want people to enjoy my stories. I want them to finish my books and go: that was fun! Other than that, I'd like to be known for writing compelling mysteries and sweet romances.
Q: What can we expect from you next?
Milda Harris: I'm working on a novella romantic mystery series starting with the book Killer Cupcakes. It's about a girl named Ava who just got a job at a cupcake shop on Hollywood Boulevard. On her first day her super handsome co-worker ropes her into investigating the murder mystery of a celebrity. After that, I'll be working on Funeral Crashing #5 which is going to be set in Paris.
Thank you so much for the interview!!!!