From the Publisher

Q & A with the Author, Abigail Wilson

How do you create mysteries that keep readers guessing without making them outlandish or unbelievable?

Writing a believable mystery is such an incredible balancing act. I know I for one long for that perfect surprise ending, twists and turns along the way, as well as bread crumbs I didnt even realize I missed which would have helped me figure it all out. Its certainly something I strive for in my writing. I begin every novel with the creation of the murderer himself, who then drives the narrative of the story, keeping all the characters moving about his virtual chessboard as he plans to get away with the ultimate crime. But how to keep the story in check? Lots and lots of critique from fellow writers and editors. Bringing a book to publication is a team effort in every way.

How does The Vanishing at Loxby Manor fit in conversation with your other novels? will readers of Midnight on the River Grey and Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey find in this latest novel that expands upon your earlier work?

Though The Vanishing at Loxby Manor is a standalone novel which introduces a host of new characters, this story follows the same delicious Gothic framework as my previous works. Set in the familiar southeastern coast of England in a beautiful, old manor house, Vanishing once again highlights my favorite page-turning combination of intrigue and romance, as well as murder and redemption. Readers who enjoyed the layered mysteries of my previous books will love the surprises I have in store for them in Vanishingthe fascinating world of Britains secret societies, the complicated family dynamics, and the inspirational love story that weaves its way so delicately through the pages.

How are readers going to connect to the characters?

Charity Halliwell was definitely the most challenging heroine Ive brought to life as a writer. Early on in the development process, I came to realize shed suffered a life altering incidentthat shed survived sexual assault. And thus throughout the writing process I felt keenly the responsibility of bringing her story to the page in not only an authentic way but a tactful one. Throughout The Vanishing at Loxby Manor, Charity not only gains the courage to rise above her fears, but the more important lesson: to love the person she has become. As all of Charitys previous assumptions are stripped away, I hope my readers connect with her struggles as well as her triumphs.