Marlene M. Bell – Exploring New Zealand Through Mystery

Bell’s “Copper Waters” uses New Zealand’s landscapes to enrich themes of family and betrayal.

Marlene M. Bell’s novels blend her sheep husbandry background and culinary passion, creating rich settings and complex characters. Her artistic vision and personal experiences inspire diverse storytelling across genres.

Marlene M. Bell is making waves in the literary world with her impressive storytelling abilities that cut across genres, captivating readers young and old. Her notable Annalisse series, especially Copper Waters, has received considerable acclaim, highlighting themes of family ties and betrayal against the stunning backdrop of New Zealand. In an interview with Reader’s House magazine, Bell elaborates on her creative process, the inspirations behind her characters, and her passion for storytelling, revealing why she stands out among contemporary authors.

Bell’s decision to set Copper Waters in New Zealand stems from her personal experience in sheep husbandry. “New Zealand was chosen for its beautiful scenic landscape and a place to showcase their sheep stations,” she explains. This choice not only allows her to share insights about sheep farming in different countries but also creates a necessary space for her characters to work through their differences in a compelling way. The lush landscapes of New Zealand serve as a vivid backdrop that enhances the emotional stakes of her narrative.

In her latest novel, A Hush at Midnight, the protagonist, Laura Harris, a former celebrity chef, becomes embroiled in a murder investigation. When discussing the complexity of her characters, Bell notes, “I thought it would be a challenge to create a character who loves to cook (bake) and bring another book out with an international flair.” Laura’s culinary training in France adds layers of tension and intrigue, as her expertise in creating exquisite dishes contrasts sharply with the chaos surrounding her. This culinary angle not only enhances the narrative but also showcases Bell’s personal passion for cooking, which she considers a significant aspect of her life.

A consistent motif in Bell’s work is the presence of sheep, reflecting her lifelong involvement in sheep ranching. She describes her journey in the sheep industry, which led her to create her company, Ewephoric, in 1985. “Having sheep as part of our family has made it essential to create stories with sheep and lambs making cameo appearances in novels and children’s books,” she shares. Her children’s picture book, Mia and Nattie: One Great Team!, draws on her real-life experiences of raising a bottle lamb, showcasing the bond between a little girl and her lamb. “Mia and Nattie covers several lessons important for young people to learn as they mature,” she states, highlighting her desire to impart meaningful messages through her storytelling.

Transitioning between adult mysteries and children’s literature presents its own unique challenges for Bell. However, she finds joy in catering to diverse audiences. “Writing novels gave me the courage to jump out of my genre comfort zone and try something new to work through the grief,” she reveals, referencing the emotional journey she experienced after the passing of her beloved lamb, Nattie. The desire to convey life lessons to children is a driving force behind her storytelling, allowing her to tackle different genres while remaining true to her experiences.

Bell’s artistic background as an accomplished artist and photographer also profoundly influences her writing. “My ability to draw and paint what I see in nature has made me better at descriptions for my books,” she explains. Her visual creativity enhances the vividness of her narratives, as she strives to provide readers with an accurate depiction of the settings in her stories. Instead of relying on the internet for research, Bell prefers to draw from her own experiences and insights gathered from people who have traveled to the locations she writes about.

With multiple awards to her name, Bell shares valuable advice for aspiring writers looking to carve their own paths in the competitive literary landscape. “The best advice I can give new authors is to research the genre they plan to write and read, read, read the work of other authors,” she advises. Reading not only helps to spark creativity but also serves as a remedy for writer’s block. Furthermore, she emphasizes the importance of producing a professional product, advocating for thorough editing and design to enhance the overall quality of the work.

Marlene M. Bell’s journey from artist to award-winning author is a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence and creativity. Her ability to create relatable characters and intertwine personal experiences into her narratives has solidified her reputation as a literary force. With her diverse range of works and heartfelt storytelling, Bell continues to inspire readers and fellow writers alike, proving that passion and dedication can truly make a difference in the world of literature.