We’re about to enter the days of dog summer—and we have a special gift pack to share for dog-loving book lovers!
Arizona-based CB Wilson has authored a cozy dog-centric mystery series called Barkview Mystery. Each book features a different breed of dog and, of course, a mystery that challenges the main character, a journalist named Cat.
One winner will receive:
Whether your summer reading session is happening on the beach or on your couch with your dog by your side, this gift is a fun way to usher in the dog summer days! Read on to learn more about Barkview Mystery and how to enter the giveaway below.
Interview with the author of The Barkview Mysteries series
I just got a chance to dig in Doodling to deathone of Barkview’s Mysteries introduces–you guessed it–a Doodle!
You don’t have to be a Doodle parent to immerse yourself in this mystery, which combines insights into the Doodle’s personality as well as a classic mystery or uses the author’s knowledge. from her studies at the Gemological Institute of America (so keep an eye out to see if diamonds play a part in these mysteries!) And these books are a must-have if you’re a lover. love cozy mysteries (or love those cozy mysteries if you love British mystery TV shows like I do!)
After the end Doodling to death, I sent pictures of Barli and Isla so each of them could become an “honorary resident of Barkview.” Both dogs received personal certificates…how fun?!
Recently, I had the opportunity to learn more about Wilson’s unique series of books and the characters that make the Barkview community so special to dog lovers.
How did you come up with the idea of combining cozy mysteries, each with a different breed?
I’ve always been a huge fan of Hallmark Movies and Mysteries (especially during the holidays), which is the quintessential cozy mystery. What better platform to explore the role dogs play in our lives?
I firmly believe that there is a ‘right’ dog for everyone. Finding the ideal match will give you a BFF (Best Furry Friend) for life. Barkview Mysteries Series follows Cat’s, a cat lover living in a dog-focused town, on a journey to discover if there’s a ‘perfect’ dog for her.
Can you tell us about your own personal connection to dogs and how it influenced your decision to write mysteries about them?
In a way, I connect with my heroine and her quest for the ‘perfect’ dog. My mom, a real couch fanatic, inspired me to write this series when she adopted a really active Jack Russell Terrier/Chihuahua mix. (Do you want to guess how that plays out?)
Barkview Mysteries looks at the good and bad traits of a featured breed. What could be better than having you and your BFF (Furry Best Friend) bring out the best in each other?
What do you think is the appeal of cozy mysteries to readers, especially those involving dogs? And for readers unfamiliar with the cozy mystery genre, can you elaborate a little more on what sets them apart from other mystery novels?
My two favorite things are good laughter and stories with happy endings. What’s not to like about fun loving dogs, a bit of mystery to test my reasoning abilities, and a uplifting ending?
The Heartwarming Mystery is a touching read that deals with real life issues. No need to apply serial killers, terrorists or apocalyptic thrillers.
How do you strike a balance between crafting a gripping mystery plot and incorporating heartwarming moments involving dogs?
Dogs are the best subjects to write about. They are loyal and curious characters with distinct personalities who care deeply about everything you do.
Their excellent sense of smell and ability to judge personality make them the perfect Watson for an investigation. You will be surprised at how much your child has to say.
How do you choose the breeds that are in your books and then start researching their unique personalities?
The dog breeds I write about choose me. Every dog and owner has a story to tell. I love listening to and incorporating those funny and poignant moments into my books.
My favorite places to go are the Dog Park and Dog Beach in our community. (Say hello to the woman holding the notebook. She may be planning your puppy’s next adventure.)
I admit that I have many stories to tell. (Or rather, Cat reminded me that she wasn’t ready to end her search yet.)
Can you give us a glimpse of your writing habits? Do you have any rituals or habits that help you get in the right mindset when writing a book?
My writing habits are a conundrum. Inspiration strikes from so many places. Like my heroine, who solves mysteries by taking notes on Post-it, tissues, scraps of paper, or her phone, I organize and rearrange the scenes until I have an outline and then I started telling the story. I also don’t decide who is the killer until the end… Hope that helps you guess.
Finally, can you give us a preview of your upcoming projects? Any new cozy mysteries about dogs that readers can look forward to?
Slashing the wind just released on July 14lame pants. This adventure features the Australian Shepherd and the lost diamonds. This is my first book set in Canine Cay, Australia.
Although the island is fictional, Canine Cay was inspired by my own honeymoon at Lizard Island near Cairns, Australia. Let me assure you, it’s an adventure I’ve been waiting so long to tell. Of course, Cat and Russ’ path turned out to be more challenging.
Dachshund to death will be released just in time for the holidays this year with the Christmas song 12 Days of Barkview that makes me cry every time I listen to it. Two cunning Doxies keep Cat running around as she searches for a lost Civil War gingerbread recipe.
Buy The Barkview Mysteries on Amazon in both print and Kindle editions.
Enter to win
Which book in Barkview Mystery What series do you want to win the most? You can join Rafflecopter below; As always, you can return to the gift widget at any time during the giveaway for more entries. Good luck!
The prizes in this giveaway are sponsored by CB Wilson and YUCKY PUPPY.
