Why do you write the genre that you write?
I have loved mysteries since Scooby-Doo and Nancy Drew. I read a lot of genres, but I’m always drawn to mysteries, especially cozy mysteries. I love the quirky characters, fun small towns, interesting jobs, and the pet sidekicks.

What’s the quirkiest quirk one of your characters has?
This one is tough. They’re all quirky in their own way. In the Mermaid Bay Christmas Shoppe Mysteries, Todd Brickman, surfer extraordinaire and hot dog stand owner, buys a hearse to cart around his surf boards. He also wants to use it in future marketing campaigns, Hot Dogs to Die For.

Tell us how you got into writing?
I have always loved reading and writing. I had some amazing teachers throughout the years who were so encouraging. Also, I took the best course ever as an undergraduate, “The History of Mystery and Detective Fiction.” That sealed it. I’ve wanted to write mysteries ever since.

What jobs have you held before, during and/or after you became a writer?
Over the years, I have been a technical writer, project manager, college professor, trainer, graphic designer, and currently, I’m a Quality Assurance and IT Governance Manager.

Where do you write?
I usually write in my office. I have a giant window, and it’s fun to watch the critters and birds in the woods. My two crazy Jack Russell terriers have their own set up in the office, so they are great companions, and they help me plot.

What is your favorite deadline snack?
Chocolate. Anything chocolate

Who is an author you admire?
Again, there are so many who have been so kind and generous to me along my writing journey. (Thank you, Sisters in Crime members.) Mary Burton, Sherry Harris, and Shawn Reilly Simmons have provided wonderful advice. Thank you, ladies!

What’s your favorite genre to read?
Cozy mysteries, traditional mysteries, police procedurals, and thrillers

What are you reading now?
Ellen Byron’s Four Parties and a Funeral

What is your favorite beverage to end the day?
It’s usually either Dr. Pepper or iced tea. Though, I have developed an iced coffee habit lately.

What is next for you?
I just signed a contract for three more books in the Jules Keene Glamping Mysteries. Thank you, Level Best Books!

Where can we find you?
Website and Blog: heatherweidner.com
Twitter: @HeatherWeidner1
Facebook: HeatherWeidnerAuthor
Instagram: @heather_mystery_writer

Now to have some fun . . .

Chocolate or vanilla
Chocolate

Cake or ice cream
Ice Cream

Fruits or vegetables
Fruits

Breakfast, lunch, or dinner
Breakfast (I love brunch!)

Dining in or dining out
Dining Out

City life or country living
Country Living

Beach or mountain
Tough one. I love both, but I’m a beach girl at heart.

Summer or winter
Summer

Short story or full-length novel
Novels

Extrovert or introvert
I am right on the line of the Meyers Briggs. I lean toward extrovert.

Early bird or night owl
Definitely early bird

And even more fun . . .

What’s your favorite movie?
The Wizard of Oz

You are stranded on a deserted island. What are your three must-haves?
Chocolate, Iced Coffee, and Lots of Books

My bio:
Through the years, Heather Weidner has been a cop’s kid, technical writer, editor, college professor, software tester, and IT manager. Heather Weidner writes the Mermaid Bay Christmas Shoppe Mysteries, the Delanie Fitzgerald mystery series, The Mutt Mysteries series, and the Jules Keene Glamping Mysteries. Originally from Virginia Beach, Heather has been a mystery fan since Scooby-Doo and Nancy Drew. She lives in Central Virginia with her husband and a pair of Jack Russell terriers.