Heather’s Bookshelf: Author Interview with Stephen M. Murphy
Book Title: Beneath the Gavel
Released: 08/01/25
Genre: Legal Thriller
Interview by Heather L. Barksdale
What inspired you to write “Beneath the Gavel”?
Murphy: I have been a superior court judge for over eight years and have been intrigued by the ethical constraints on judges. Beneath the Gavel explores those constraints on a judge who is forced to become an amateur sleuth when his father is accused of murder.
How did you come up with the names of your main characters?
Murphy: I wanted a name that was somewhat pompous but also a bit sketchy for my protagonist Judge Ferdinand Pitt. I had no real methodology in coming up with the other names except they seemed to suit the characters.
Is there anything that you want readers to know about you, your writing process or your book?
Murphy: I base my legal thrillers in part on events experienced in my professional life as a lawyer then a judge. That said, only my first Dutch Francis book, Alibi, was based primarily on an actual case.
If "Beneath the Gavel” were adapted into a movie, who would you like to see cast to play your lead characters?
Murphy: Probably Brian Cranston as Judge Ferdinand Pitt because he did such a great job playing a judge in the Your Honor series. Then Nicole Kidman as Sonya Pitt because she can be tough as nails.
When you encounter writer’s block, what do you do to break yourself out of it?
Murphy: I exercise and try to imagine how my character would respond to the obstacles he or she faces. I try to think of what would build the tension and enhance conflict.
Are there any tips that you would like to share with other aspiring authors?
Murphy: Write, write, write, but consult editors to give you feedback. Friends and family don't count. It's worth the money to get professional feedback.
What is your favorite book, genre, and/or author?
Murphy: Of course, legal thrillers are my favorite genre but I enjoy literary works as well. I have read Pat Conroy's Prince of Tides several times and enjoyed it each time.
What are you working on next?
Murphy: I am working on the fourth Dutch Francis novel set during the pandemic in the wake of the George Floyd murder.
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Find it for purchase here
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