Misty Simon Weaves Mystery and Romance with Wit, Heart, and Unstoppable Determination
Crafting Intriguing Mysteries and Endearing Romances
Misty Simon shares her journey into publishing, her creative process, and the inspiration behind her beloved cosy mysteries. She offers insights on perseverance, storytelling, and the importance of community in writing.
Misty Simon is a name that shines brightly in the world of contemporary fiction, particularly in the realms of cozy mysteries and romance. A storyteller of immense talent and determination, Misty’s journey into writing is as inspiring as the narratives she skillfully weaves. From her humble beginnings as an avid reader to her triumphant foray into published works, she embodies the spirit of perseverance and creativity, turning her love for happily-ever-afters into captivating novels that have delighted readers worldwide.
Over the years, Misty has showcased her versatility by crafting compelling series such as The Ivy Morris Mysteries and the much-loved Tallie Graver Mysteries. Her wit, warmth, and knack for intricate plotting draw readers into vivid worlds filled with engaging characters, heartfelt themes, and delightful intrigue. As a proud member of Sisters in Crime, she continues to champion the art of storytelling while drawing strength from the camaraderie of her fellow writers.
Award-winning author Misty Simon shares her inspiring journey into publishing, creative process, challenges, successes, and advice for aspiring writers while exploring the magic behind her cozy mysteries and heartwarming tales.
The Journey to Becoming a Published Author
Misty Simon’s path to publication began in 1998 when she realized she was watching too much television and needed a creative outlet. Visiting a used bookstore rekindled her love for reading, and she soon challenged herself to try writing. Her early attempts, including a “ridiculous novel” and an assumption that children’s books might be easier, led to numerous rejections. However, Misty’s perseverance never wavered.
Determined to refine her craft, she took writing courses, read how-to books, and connected with other writers online. Her first published work was an article on antique cars, though under the pseudonym M. Simon Penner, as the magazine wanted a male byline. Undeterred, she continued submitting work, eventually landing a paid piece for an online retailer. Her big break came when she won a writing contest, leading to her first novel sale in 2004, just 362 days after committing to full-time writing.
Since then, Misty has navigated the ever-changing publishing landscape, working with traditional publishers, small presses, and self-publishing. She embraces every challenge as a “plot twist” and continues to share stories filled with heart and humor.
The Inspiration Behind Tallie Graver Mysteries
Misty’s Tallie Graver Mysteries series has been a hit among cozy mystery readers. Inspired by the idea of returning to one’s hometown after swearing never to return, she infused the series with humor, quirky characters, and unexpected twists. Misty often finds inspiration in news stories, weaving them into gripping plots that keep readers hooked. Writing for her, she says, is like watching a movie unfold—she simply transcribes what she sees.
The Power of Community: Sisters in Crime
As a member of Sisters in Crime, Misty has found invaluable support in the writing community. The organization has provided networking opportunities, industry insights, and the encouragement necessary to navigate the highs and lows of publishing. “Having cheerleaders and being a cheerleader are two huge things that have moved me along in my career and personally,” she says.
Crafting Stories: Misty’s Writing Process
Misty employs a technique called Mindmapping, beginning with the fundamental journalistic questions (who, what, where, why, when, and how). She creates lists of suspects, key scenes, and elements of herself to explore through her main characters. This structured approach helps her avoid narrative dead-ends while ensuring organic character development. Above all, she believes the first draft should be messy—allowing creativity to flow freely without self-imposed constraints.
Advice for Aspiring Authors
For those looking to break into cozy mysteries, Misty offers one key piece of advice: never give up. Writing is a journey filled with rejection, but perseverance is essential. “You have stories to tell, and there are people out there who need to read them,” she says. “Show up, and it will happen.”
From her engaging storytelling to her unwavering dedication, Misty Simon exemplifies the magic of writing. Her stories, filled with mystery, romance, and humor, continue to capture readers’ hearts, making her a beloved voice in contemporary fiction.
“You have stories to tell and there are people out there who want to read them. In fact, they NEED to read them.” – Misty Simon
Originally published in Reader’s House Magazine.
