Today we’d like to introduce you to Stacy Wilder.
Hi Stacy, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
For years my life revolved around spreadsheets, budgets, and HR policies and procedures, but the creative muse inside refused to remain quiet.
I started college as a journalism major, but switched to a more practical business degree, and spent years working in accounting and human resources. I exercised my left brain to the point of exhaustion, while my right brain, the creative side, was screaming to be heard.
That’s when I discovered Julia Cameron’s book, The Artist’s Way. I joined a small group of fellow creatives, at what used to be the Cenacle Retreat Center (sadly destroyed by Hurricane Harvey). Julia recommends journaling every morning and as I journaled, the ideas bubbled up, including inspiration for poetry, children’s stories and the seeds for a mystery series.
From a young age, I loved to read, and I always admired my grandfather’s storytelling abilities, but I had no idea that I had that same passion burning inside me. Once I started writing, I discovered the joy of creating characters and watching their stories unfold. A bonus is the connection with other authors and avid readers. I’m often at Houston area markets. Follow my Facebook page to find the latest venue.
After nearly twenty years of starting and stopping with the first book in the Liz Adams Mystery Series, Charleston Conundrum, I finally committed to finishing it. The book was published in 2021, and I’m currently working on book number six, Colorado Conundrum.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like most creative journeys, it hasn’t been a smooth road.
My first challenge was getting over the feeling that I wasn’t “credentialed.” In my business career, I had certifications and a track record. For my author job, I didn’t have an MFA or much of a resume at all. To bridge that gap, I immersed myself in learning. I gobbled up every writing course and every free online event I could find and joined a writer’s group. I also entered contests that offer feedback. Those steps gave me the confidence to keep moving forward.
The second challenge was the steep learning curve involved in producing a book. I’m a self-published author so that included learning every step of the process—from hiring professional editors and a cover designer, formatting the interior, obtaining ISBN numbers, securing copyrights, deciding on pricing and distribution. Although it was a steep climb, with each book the process becomes easier.
My business background came in handy, and I do treat my author career as a business. My third biggest challenge is marketing. Something I’m still learning and refining with each release.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I write cozy mysteries featuring Private Investigator Liz Adams and her truth-sniffing Labrador retriever, Duke. Publisher’s Weekly compared me to Carolyn Hart, what an honor.
My stories stray a bit from the traditional cozy mystery mold. Instead of small towns, the stories are set in popular tourist destinations. Ideal for anyone who enjoys travelling from the comfort of their armchair. Although one reader traveled to Carmel and visited every single sight mentioned in Carmel Conundrum. Love that!
Liz is a professional investigator, not the typical amateur sleuth included in cozies. But like all cozies, the books still have a sense of community and continuity. Readers love Duke and his role in solving the latest case at hand. Each book includes recipes and playlists that tie into the story.
One thing I’m particularly proud of is that I donate a portion of the proceeds to organizations that help the homeless, both people and pets, including NAMI, Feeding America, Texas Sporting Breed Rescue (where we adopted our Lab, Eve), Houston’s CAP, Best Friends Animal Society, and Schnauzer Rescue of Texas.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
A lot of people are surprised to learn that I minored in French at Baylor University.
After graduating, I moved to Houston and worked for the French bank, Credit Lyonnais. When my internship ended, I had the choice to stay in Houston and find another job or move to NYC and continue to work for the bank.
I chose Houston and good thing! Not long after that, I met my husband. This July we’ll celebrate our fortieth anniversary.
Most readers do know one fun fact: our Lab, Eve, is the inspiration for Duke’s character. Although she can’t detect when people are lying, she’s a communicator.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.storystacy.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/authorstacywilder/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wilderstacy
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacyedick/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@StacyWilder-y8s/
- Other: https://www.amazon.com/author/stacy.wilder
