Fresh Take on Big Name Fan: A Tense and Heartwarming Sapphic Mystery
Fan's Impressions of Notable Figure: Review, Competition, Discussion featuring Ruthie Knox and Annie Mare
Ready for a thrilling ride of mystery and romance? Gear up as we delve into the debut sapphic detective series, Big Name Fan, penned by the extraordinary duo, Ruthie Knox and Annie Mare. This hybrid novel, brimming with suspense, heartwarming moments, and a dash of nostalgia, is perfect for fans of second-chance romances.
As the TV show Craven's Daughter came to an end five years ago, the chemistry between Bex and Sam, its lead characters, left fans yearning for more. The on-screen duo never shared the romance they teased, but their emotional bond lives on, stoked by the endless fanfiction written by a prolific mystery fan—someone with intimate knowledge of the cast and crew.
Big Name Fan unfolds as Bex and Sam host a reunion podcast for the popular series, stirring up excitement among fans. Little does the duo know that they're about to unravel a web of secrets hidden behind the cameras, and possibly uncover the truth behind the mysterious death of a crew member.
The spark between Bex and Sam is unmistakable, and as they delve deeper into the podcast, they find themselves questioning whether their friend's death was an accident or something more sinister. Who is the true "Big Name Fan"?
The novel offers a unique reading experience, layered with an intricate mystery to solve, a second-chance romance, and a poignant examination of sexism and homophobia in the media. By shining a light on the inner workings of the fictional show's queerbaiting tactics, the authors deftly address difficult topics with sensitivity[6].
This story, flavorful with mixed media elements (podcasts, fanfiction, and TV shows), appealed to me as a lifelong admirer of TV classics. The nostalgic vibe and clever storytelling genuinely impressed me. The mystery was engaging, but the relationship between Bex and Sam kept me turning pages[7]. Cross your fingers for more installments in this engrossing detective series!
As a passionate reader who's been gripped by the book world since the fourth grade, Sarah Erwin, reviews Big Name Fan with enthusiasm. Having transitioned from a children's librarian, library director, and currently a stay-at-home mom, Sarah dedicates ample time to her blog, oozing with book recommendations at Sarah Can't Stop Reading and her Instagram (@sarahcantstopreading)[8].
Celebrity Sleuths and Twin Wordsmiths
Dive into an exclusive interview with the authors of Big Name Fan, and discover the creative minds behind the book. Ruthie Knox and Annie Mare, not just married partners but also the powerhouse duo of mystery and romance, share their journey, inspirations, and the intriguing world of Mystery Manor[9]. So get comfortable, grab a beverage, and enjoy the ride as these masters weave magic with their words!
Lisa Romeo of Kings River Life Magazine (KRL): How long have you been writing?
Annie Mare: I've been writing since forever. My first complete book was in third grade, appropriately titled "The Happy Elephantus." I majored in English and pursued an MFA, publishing poetry and short stories[10]. My first commercial fiction appeared in 2014.
Ruthie Knox: I dabbled in writing as a kid, during Ohio public schools' "Power of the Pen" competitions, and continued my passion in academia. I worked as a historian and academic editor before publishing my debut romance novel in 2012[10].
KRL: When did your first novel come out, what was it called, and would you share a bit about it?
Annie: My debut novel was titled Live, centering around a woman struggling after her job loss, exploring her journey through unexpected connections and introspection[10].
Ruthie: My first novel was named Ride with Me, a transcontinental cycling romance[10]. It might've been the first romance novel associated with the Trans America Trail mentioned in Wikipedia.
KRL: Have you always written mysteries/suspense, or have you ventured into other genres as well?
Annie: I've penned poetry, romance, women's fiction, and mysteries. 2019 marked the beginning of my foray into mysteries.
Ruthie: I have written non-fiction and romance in addition to mysteries. I even have an unfinished dissertation about infanticide in late Victorian Britain that could come in handy for future mystery plotting[10]!
KRL: How did you decide on the setting and characters for your latest book/series?
Both: The setting came organically, inspired by our personal experiences and fascination with TV detective series. For the characters, we carefully crafted them to allow readers to connect and root for them[11].
KRL: Do you write to entertain or is there something more you aim to provide for readers in your work?
Both: Our primary aim is to create characters who feel relatable, evoke emotions, and invite readers to think and feel. We make our stories a reflection of reality and ensure the queer community is well-represented[11].
KRL: What is your writing routine? Are you schedule-driven, or do you write whenever inspiration strikes?
Both: We write every day for four to six hours, alternating mornings and afternoons to handle publishing-related tasks. But let's be real, we've got teenagers and pets, so things don't always go as planned[11].
KRL: What's your ideal writing time?
Both: We prefer mornings.
KRL: Outlining or spontaneity? How do you keep track of plot elements and pacing during the writing process?
Both: While we keep a detailed synopsis and turning points outline, we also create chapter-specific plans. As we progress, we jot down any outstanding plot points to maintain consistent pacing[11].
KRL: Did the publishing process prove difficult initially?
Annie: I've always been passionate about writing, as well as publishing. I strategically submit when my work is its best, researching relevant presses and publishing houses. Being knowledgeable about the industry and having perseverance has been key[12].
Ruthie: I concur with Annie. Building a creative life that challenges and engages you daily is essential. Staying flexible, willing to try various genres, and abandoning projects that fail to connect with readers contribute to success[12].
KRL: Any interesting rejection or acceptance stories you'd like to share?
Both: A book that was rejected by a plethora of editors finally found its calling a year ago. We had submitted it for years, with several stating we had no idea who the audience was or how to market the book. This year, it sold for an outstanding deal to an editor who rejected it initially but was open to reconsider once the market shifted[12]. Remember that there's always a chance for success with persistence and patience!
KRL: Most unforgettable book signing experience?
Both: Our signing at Antioch, Illinois, was exceptionally memorable. The audience was bursting with energy and the conversation was truly captivating[13].
KRL: Future writing goals?
Both: We look forward to exploring the TV Detective series further and building a complete world for readers[13]. We also have a new series called Prairie Nightingale set to launch in June, filled with intricate whodunits and alluring mysteries[13].
KRL: Who are your writing heroes?
Annie: Besides Ruthie Knox, there's Ada Limon, Charlie Jane Anders, Alison Cochrun, Akwaeke Emezi, Sara Paretsky, Martha Wells, Larry McMutry, Sonya Sanchez, Chuck Tingle, Malinda Lo, Mazey Eddings, and Alyssa Cole, to name a few[14].
Ruthie: I admire Annie Mare, Alice Walker, Sarah Paretsky, Janet Evanovich, and Helene Tursten[14].
KRL: What kind of research do you conduct for your books?
Annie: I invest time in exploring occupations, locations, maps, and regional cultures for a robust, immersive experience[14].
Ruthie: My background in history and historical genealogy enables me to research archives and consult historical records[14].
KRL: What genres do you enjoy reading?
Annie: I relish mystery, romance, science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary poetry.
Ruthie: I'm a fan of science fiction, mystery, and fantasy.
KRL: Favorite TV shows or movies?
Both: Recently, we've been swept away by One of Them Days and The Equalizer with Queen Latifah[15].
KRL: Any advice for aspiring or new writers?
Annie: Read consistently, create something daily, and aim to develop your own unique career rather than trying to emulate someone else's. Remember that the publishing industry can be unpredictable, and the journey demands resilience[16].
Ruthie: I suggest viewing writing as a creative pursuit. Just as knitting a sweater doesn't expect perfection, writing a book is an attempt to fulfill an idea you have. Be willing to experiment and learn, but also be prepared for unexpected results.
KRL: Is there anything readers would find surprising about you?
Annie: I hold a board certification as a pediatric nurse practitioner, capable of diagnosing ear infections with just a glance[17].
Ruthie: I have a well-known knitting pattern for a turtle with a removable shell named Sheldon[17].
KRL: Do you have any pets?
Both: Cat cafes are a favorite hangout spot for the writers. You can find us bonding with cats at the Starlight Cat Cafe in Stevens Point, WI, for our upcoming Big Name Fan signing[18].
KRL: Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Both: Mia Manasala is a must-read for cozy mystery fans[19]. Keep up with us at ruthieknoxandanniemare.com, anniemare.com, and ruthieknox.com, and check out our upcoming Mae Marvel titles[19]. You can purchase the book directly from Amazon.
In their exclusive interview, lifelong authors Ruthie Knox and Annie Mare discuss their book, Big Name Fan, mentioning their love for pets as they share their book recommendations at Sarah Can't Stop Reading and their Instagram (@sarahcantstopreading). They further admit to visiting cat cafes, such as the Starlight Cat Cafe in Stevens Point, WI, and even bonding with cats during their upcoming Big Name Fan signing.
Among their literary interests, the authors mention they enjoy reading mystery, romance, and even science fiction, with favorites such as Sarah Paretsky, Ada Limon, and Queen Latifah's The Equalizer. Moreover, Annie Mare reveals her unique ability as a pediatric nurse practitioner, capable of diagnosing ear infections with just a glance, while Ruthie Knox shares her renowned knitting pattern for a turtle with a removable shell named Sheldon.
