QUICK-FIRE QUESTIONS WITH SUSAN MCBRIDE

What are you currently reading?

I’m deep in the midst of A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness, and I intend to read the whole series. I watched the Netflix adaptation and fell in love with the story, so I’m very much enjoying deep-diving into the lives of witch Diana and vampire Matthew. It’s my escape from American politics and middle-school carpool!

Describe your series in three words.

Cozy, fun, feisty!

Who would you pick to play Helen Evans?

Oh, my gosh. There’s such a plethora of amazing actresses over 70. Of course, my first choice would be Dame Helen Mirren, who could play absolutely anyone and be convincing. She has the intellect, wit, and spark to be Helen, for sure. I also love Cathy Bates, Sally Field, and Dianne Wiest. It would be such fun to see any one of them as Helen.

What’s the most interesting thing you had to research whilst writing?

With regard to the Helen mysteries, it would have to be looking into the history of the Mississippi Valley for Come Helen High Water, particularly with regard to Lewis and Clark and the legend of the Piasa Bird. Though I figure the most interesting experience I ever had researching a book was going to a strip club for Night of the Living Deb. My friend and fellow writer Dan Hale took me, and I think he was more embarrassed than I was!