The Maine Crime Writers
Author Archives: Maureen Milliken
Writing a series: What to leave in, what to leave out
When I’m at events where I have an opportunity to sell my books, the most-asked question by far from potential readers is “Do I have to read them in order?” Short answer: “No!” But if you know me, you know … Continue reading
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Maine summer and writing and reading stuff
Not impressed with that title? Well, you can join the club. I had a bunch of great topics, and was going to choose at least one of them to write about today, but I went for a drive instead. Don’t … Continue reading
Mystery-writing lessons from ‘Jaws’
I saw the movie “Jaws” the summer it came out. Over and over and over and over again. There wasn’t a lot to do in Augusta, Maine, in the summer in the 1970s. But I also just couldn’t get enough … Continue reading
It’s (almost) summer, so find a Maine Crime Writer near you
Along with the lilac buds, the ticks and the visitors from away, one thing is sure about the warmer months in Maine — a Maine Crime Writer will have an event somewhere near you. It’s a reality of the 21st … Continue reading
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Why use a fictional town instead of real town in a mystery?
One question I get asked with surprisingly frequency is why I use a fictional town in my books instead of a real one. Many readers who ask are also under the impression even though my town, Redimere, Maine, doesn’t exist, … Continue reading
New Bernie O’Dea audiobook, reader’s companion on their way
Happy 2025 all! And I’ve I said every year since 2000, where the hell is my jetpack? Remember back when the 2000s seemed so far away? And we figured by 2000 we’d all have jetpacks? Anyway, that’s not what I’m … Continue reading
A great finale for Maine Crime Writers 2024
For the third year in a row, the Maine Crime Writers sponsored a tree at the Augusta Elks Lodge Festival of Trees, which ran from Dec. 10 to 15. You’re probably familiar with these fundraisers — they take place all … Continue reading
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Turning the table: Questions for Maine mystery readers
As I meet and talk to readers at signings and other events, it’s always a pleasure to listen to their opinions and questions about my Bernadette “Bernie” O’Dea mystery series. I welcome questions about my choices, why characters do certain … Continue reading
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Tagged Bernadette "Bernie" O'Dea mystery series, reader questions
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Oct. 29: DYING FOR NEWS, 4th in Bernadette ‘Bernie’ O’Dea series
The plan this month was to post a scary or spooky scene from one of our books. I meant to. I really did. But I overthink posting scenes — the context, how scary really is it? Blah blah blah. Also, … Continue reading
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The writing process, kind of, in pictures
As I finalize my book for its upcoming publication, I’ve got no gas left in the tank for one of my usual lengthy posts. Lucky you! Instead, I’m posting a few pictures to illustrate my writing process. Remember, aspiring writers, … Continue reading
Posted in Maureen's Posts, Uncategorized
Tagged Bernie O'Dea mystery series, writing process
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