It's Alive!

Mooncusser Mystery Writer is a blog for mystery writers and readers who are thinking about writing mysteries. I’ve been practicing law for over 30 years and, like many of my colleagues, have always thought I should be doing something else. Five years ago, I decided to quit thinking about it and do it. Writing was something I’d always wanted to do, but was unsure of my ability. Knowing what I now know about writing, what seems to matter more is persistence and a thick skin. I’ve now completed a Masters of Fine Arts, had some poetry and short stories published, written a practice mystery that remains hidden under my bed, and am working on a second mystery I hope to get published. To all with similar aspirations, I’m hoping we can encourage one another with blog entries about the mystery writing experience, suggested reading, and short writing samples.

Note about the term Mooncusser: Centuries ago, pirates along the shores of Cape Cod would lure ships into treacherous shoals by waving decoy lanterns during storms, and then plunder the cargo. A bright moonlit night would foil the pirates’ game, and thus their name “Mooncusser”. I’ve chosen the name for this blog because such clever deception is not only the aim of a murderer, but of a successful mystery writer as well. Also, my murders take place on the Cape, where we’ve recently moved.