Heather’s Bookshelf: Author Interview with Kelly Miller

Book Title: The Mysterious Disappearance of Mr. Darcy

Released:  03/26/24

Genre:  Classic retelling/Romance

Interview by Heather L. Barksdale

What inspired you to write “The Mysterious Disappearance of Mr. Darcy”?

Miller: I am a big fan of mysteries, and became intrigued with the notion that Mr. Darcy might disappear; and if so, how would Elizabeth react and what steps she would take to try to discover what happened to him. This is the third time I have woven a mystery into the plot of my books. (My previous two published mystery/romances are "The Darcy Secret" and "Accusing Mr. Darcy."

How did you come up with the names of your main characters?

Miller: Most of the characters are from Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice," but I have original characters, such Mr. Notley, a Bow Street Runner that has appeared in a handful of my books. I seek names that would have been common, or at least not too unusual, in Regency England.

Is there anything that you want readers to know about you, your writing process or your book?

One of the most challenging aspects of writing a Regency story is to limit myself to words, phrases, and customs that would have been in use at the time in England. I take pains to check "Etymology Online Dictionary" often and also work with wonderful and knowledgeable editors that help me with this as well. Still, new "Non-Regency" words are discovered with each book, so the process is not perfect.

If "The Mysterious Disappearance of Mr. Darcy" was adapted into a movie, who would you like to see cast to play your lead characters?

Miller: Olivia Cooke would make a fine Elizabeth. As for Darcy, I do not know enough young male actors to pick one an ideal one, but a young version of Richard Armitage would be fantastic.

When you encounter writer’s block, what do you do to break yourself out of it?

Miller: Sometimes skipping ahead to a later scene in the manuscript helps. Other times, I work out different scenarios in my head until I find one that I think will work.

Are there any tips that you would like to share with other aspiring authors on how you plan your book?

Miller: Build up a social media base; it takes time, but it is worth it to have the valuable connections with fellow authors and readers.

What is your favorite genre, book, and/or author?

Miller: Besides Jane Austen, I love books with romantic suspense. A favorite is Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier. Other favorite authors include Agatha Christie, Stephen King, Ruth Rendell, and the Agent Pendergast books by Preston & Child.

What are you working on next?

Miller: I just released a new "Pride & Prejudice" Regency romance on November 13th called "Mr. Darcy's Complex Courtship," and I have another WIP or two in process.

Interested in checking out the book for yourself?

Find it for purchase here

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