Professor Lila Maclean here, reporting from off-campus. I’m delighted to be staying at the Tattered Star Ranch, a famous landmark in Colorado, which has served as a location for numerous westerns and horror films.
It has been renovated into an elegant resort, but there are still structures and props from various movies dotting the property, and the hotel offers daily tours for fans who visit from around the world.
This unusual setting is perfect for the first-ever Malice in the Mountains conference, which is definitely not your average academic gathering. Never before have I gone to a formal dinner where someone dressed like the Headless Horseman didn’t even turn heads, as he was just one of the many in costume mode; there were supernatural creatures here, there, and everywhere. (Yes, the theme was “Monster Night,” but who knew so many academics would embrace the challenge?)
Attendees are probably most excited about the appearance of author Flynn McMaster, whose bestselling books have been turned into blockbuster movies. But although Flynn has an epic number of adoring fans, he also seems to have an epic number of problems following him around too.
And, sadly, last night, someone from Fairlake University Press–which just published a book on Flynn–was murdered.
As a result, my agenda for today now goes something like this: attend a breakfast meeting with my editor (did I mention that Fairlake is my publisher too?), present a paper for a conference session, then stay out of harm’s way while gathering as many clues as possible. . .
Have you ever attended a conference? Leave a comment below with your answer for your chance to win a digital copy (Kindle or Nook) of The Subject of Malice. Giveaway ends July 27, 2019. The winner will be notified by email (so check your spam folder). Good luck everyone!
You can read more about Lila in The Subject of Malice, the fourth book in the “Lila Maclean Academic” traditional mystery series, released July 23, 2019.
The organizers have rustled up plenty of surprises for the literary conference at Tattered Star Ranch. But the murder of an influential scholar wasn’t on the program—someone has clearly taken the theme of Malice in the Mountains to heart. This shocking crime is only the beginning: Other dangers and deceptions are soon revealed.
English professor Lila Maclean has a full agenda: She must convince a press to publish her book (possibly), ace her panel presentations (hopefully), and deal with her nemesis (regrettably).
However, when Detective Lex Archer requests Lila’s academic expertise, she agrees to consult on the case. While her contributions earn high marks from her partner, it could be too late; the killer is already taking aim at the next subject.
As Lila races to keep her colleagues alive, publish or perish takes on new meaning.
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About the author
Cynthia Kuhn writes the Lila Maclean Academic Mysteries featuring an English professor with a knack for sleuthing. The Semester of Our Discontent received an Agatha Award for best first novel; The Art of Vanishing and The Spirit in Question were Lefty Award nominees for best humorous mystery. She blogs with Chicks on the Case and is a member of Sisters in Crime and International Thriller Writers. For more information, please visit cynthiakuhn.net.
All comments are welcomed.
No, I’ve never attended a conference. Thanks for the chance!
Hi Jaime: Thank you for stopping by!
I’ve attended several writers conferences (Bouchercon, Killer Nashville, Harriette Austin, Atlanta Writers conference). I’ve also been to the Best Friends animal welfare conference.
Those sound like wonderful conferences, Sharon!
I loved Bouchercon but haven’t been to the others you mention. Yet. 🙂
I’ve never attended any book or writing conferences. It is on my bucket list to someday attend one.
Hi Robin: Hope you make it to one soon! You’ll have a wonderful time. 🙂
Yes, I have attended a conference. It was a wonderful place to meet other people with similar interests and a fun way to learn ~
Well said, Celia! Agree!
Continuing Professional Education years ago but I don’t think that’s the same thing. I will attend Bouchercon in Dallas this fall.
Hi Pat–Wishing you the BEST time at Bouchercon!
Sounds great!! Can’t wait to read it.
So kind–thank you, Ellen.
I’ve attended several conferences. Learned a lot and met some wonderful people.
Hi Peggy: Those sound like terrific trips. Thank you for the comment!
Yes, I have attended a couple of conferences. It’s a good place to meet people with similar interests.
I have attended several conferences over the years — librarians, camp directors, church, etc — no costumes & as far as I know, no deaths.
I’ve attended conferences in the past, but they’ve been dull compared to this.
**** WINNER ****
The Subject of Malice is Jaime Minter
Congratulations!
Thank you!