Interview with Marguerite Ashton, Author of Her Final Watch

When Marguerite Ashton was in her twenties, she took up acting but realized she preferred to work behind the camera, writing crime fiction. A few years later, she married an IT Geek and settled down with her role as wife, mom, and writer. Five kids later, she founded the Crime Writer’s Panel and began working with former law enforcement investigators to create; Criminal Lines Blog, an online library for crime writers who need help with their book research.

She’s a workaholic who hides in her writer’s attic, plotting out her next book and stalking Pinterest for the next avocado recipe. 

A member of Sisters in Crime, Marguerite grew up in Colorado, but is now happily living in Wisconsin and playing as much golf as possible.

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Can you tell us a bit about yourself? 

I’m a writer when life permits.

My husband and I enjoy the U-W Marching band, trivia and golf while we restore our 1911 craftsman home. 

Where did you grow up?

Colorado – home of the Rocky Mountains. It’s the one thing I miss.

I lived there for twenty-nine years before moving to Wisconsin for a fresh start, meeting my husband, combining and starting our new family.  I am a stay at home mom this time around with five kids. 

What is your fondest childhood memory?

My fondest memory would be when my parents took me fishing for the first time. I was so excited to catch a fish. But when my fishing pole moved in my hand, I screamed for Mom, threw the pole down and started running. The second time we went, things went a lot smoother!

When did you begin writing?

Nine years ago, I decided to take my writing seriously and do all that I could to hone my craft while creating stories that hopefully would one day find an audience who enjoyed my characters and their world. So, in 2012, I decided to hire a writing mentor and attend writers’ conferences.

Do you write during the day, at night or whenever you can sneak a few moments?

During the week and Saturday, I write for seven hours during the day. Then at night. About a month ago, I decided to not work too much on Sundays.

What is this book about?

My heroine, Detective Lily Blanchette faces life choices that test the boundaries of her loyalty to her father, Collin who gained the respect of a local mob boss. Now, that connection has been passed on to Lily. She’s really in a tough spot as she works to solve a crime that points to the boss's son while weighing the personal decision about the baby she has always wanted. But the father of her child belongs to her husband who she killed two weeks ago in self-defense.

This gives Lily the determination to uncover the truth for all involved, learning an important lesson along the way.                                  

Who is your biggest supporter?

My family. My writing schedule was something that everyone had to get adjusted to. That took a while. But now it’s all about teamwork.

Are you a member of a critique group? If no, who provides feedback on your work?

For the last five years, I’ve worked with my writing mentor and editor, Ami.

Who is your favorite author?

David Baldacci. My favorite book is Absolute Power.

Do you have an agent or are you looking for one?

I’m still looking for my dream agent. Until then, I’ll keep on writing.

Was the road to publication smooth sailing or a bumpy ride?

A bumpy one. My road to here has been full of personal plot twists. Some lessons were hard, others I should have seen coming.

I encourage all new authors to research everything.  I mean everything. From parts of your book, to the places you market it, the publisher, the agents, and all aspects of what comes into your business.

Hard work and attention to the little details makes a big difference.  I’m still learning each day.

If you knew then, what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently?

Research. Research. Research.

Where can readers purchase a copy of your book?

They can purchase Her Final Watch on Amazon as an ebook. Soon, my novel will be available in print and audio.

Do you have a video trailer to promote your book?  If yes, where can readers find it?

We’re still working on the book trailer for Her Final Watch. But readers can take a look at my “Thank You,” trailer made just for my readers. They can find it on my Youtube channel, Criminal Lines Book Club.

What is the best investment you have made in promoting your book?

Finding readers to share Lily’s world as she works a murder case and balances family.

What is one piece of advice you would like to share with aspiring authors everywhere?

Keep writing.

What is up next for you?

As we speak, I’m working on the next book in the series and putting together three new shows for the Crime Writers Panel.

Is there anything you would like to add?

Thank you for hosting me on your blog!