As a writer, I believe it is important to stay connected with other writers. That’s why I belong to several writing organizations, including Mystery Writers of America. It was because of my membership in MWA that I came across this week’s book and author, The Queen of Diamonds, a psychological mystery by Tracey Landau (Wildside Press, 2014) . When I read Tracey’s “Mug Shot” last month on the MWA-New York website, I knew I wanted to learn more about her novel.
Who is the main character in The Queen of Diamonds? What is he like?
Our main character is Les. He’s a laid back, optimistic 25-year-old guy working as a professional dancer in NYC. He also happens to be a schizophrenic, but it’s only a “mild case” – if he is to be believed.
What would Les choose for his last meal?
Hmm, for his last meal, I imagine Les would eat an entire NYC-style pizza with everything on it, along with a six-pack. My reasoning is that due to his profession, he normally eats small, healthy meals, so pizza is probably a rare treat. Also he loves beer.
How about you? What would you choose for your last meal?
I’d go for something super fancy and expensive that I wouldn’t normally spend money on. Something delicious and/or interesting, like Kobe beef or a full-course meal at a molecular gastronomy restaurant. I’d want whatever it is to be a full experience, not just food.
Why should someone bite into The Queen of Diamonds?
The Queen of Diamonds is a fun psychological mystery with a lot of humor and twists. There are hidden clues, quirky characters, and action throughout. It’s also not told in a usual linear way; you’re dropped into the middle of the action and the story goes back and forth between the past and present.
Do you have a recipe you would like to share?
Sure! I really like different cuisines and exotic recipes, and there’s a wonderful old Jamaican chicken recipe my mom had cut out of a magazine from 1994. I actually managed to find it again online. It’s also healthy, which Les would surely appreciate: http://www.myhealthycookingrecipes.com/recipes/site/recipe.php?id=101848&cat=%2FMain+Dish%2FPoultry+Chicken
Thank you so much for sharing Tracey! I am adding The Queen of Diamonds to my Goodreads “To Read” list right now. And I am so glad you posted a healthy recipe. (I believe next time, we’ve got a cookie recipe coming on “Book Bites”, so I want to make sure our readers get some healthy options!)
You can learn more about Tracey Landau and The Queen of Diamonds below:
The Queen of Diamonds Facebook page
