The MX Book of New Sherlock Holmes Stories – Author Interview – Brenda Seabrooke

Throughout the Kickstarter campaign, we will be adding brief interviews highlighting the talented authors who have contributed to the anthology. Today we have the excellent Brenda Seabrooke.

How did you first get introduced to Sherlock Holmes?

My grandparents lived in a tiny town. I always took books to read when we visited but one visit when I was 9 I read all of my books too quickly. I went looking for books and discovered the Sherlock Holmes books in the hall bookcase. I read my way through them starting that day.

What was the inspiration for your pastiche?

I knew about colonial soldiers hanged in a stairway by the British in Augusta, Georgia during the Revolution. I thought a stairway would be a good spot for a haunting so translated that into a single hanging.

What is your story about? 

The story is about greed, the greed of one person wanting what others have.

Where and when does it take place?

The story happens at the fictional ancient house, Barcombe Keep, the site of hauntings which lead to deaths on the stairway.

What do you believe readers will most enjoy most about your tale?

I hope readers will enjoy the upended situation with the super rational Holmes believing in the curse/haunting and Watson challenging this belief.

Which is your favourite story from The Canon and why?

The Red-Headed League. The pawnbroker wanting his silly job back intrigues me. Digby, Sherlock’s Dog in SCONES AND BONES ON BAKER STREET accompanies Mr. Holmes on that case and solves the mystery of the dirt dilemma.

Your favourite Sherlock Holmes-related place?

I’m fond of Baker Street. I was amazed to learn that Tussaud’s Wax Museum was close to 221B but never mentioned in the Canon. It was the perfect place for Digby to meet Holmes and Watson.

Tell us three things about yourself that few people would guess?

I found my bio father knowing only that his name was Smith and his father owned a furniture store in Ft. Lauderdale the year before I was born.

I can write backwards and forwards and upside down with both hands at the same time. This incredible talent hasn’t made me rich or famous, alas.

I still have a baby tooth and never grew any wisdom teeth which may account for my behavior sometimes.

Any upcoming projects?

More Holmes stories, another Digby book, and a non-Holmes mystery.

Click here for more details on the Kickstarter campaign.