Sue Coletta

answers the Usual Questions

Sue Coletta

A member of Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime, American Sue Coletta writes psychological thrillers and mysteries.

Has your interaction with fans, for example, at conventions, affected your work?

Every interaction, sunset, sunrise, smell, sound, touch, taste, influences my work. Authors use their memories, hearts, minds, and souls to write. Without outside influences our stories would wither and die.

Is there any particular incident (a letter, a meeting, a comment that stands out?

Let's say I overheard an especially brutal argument in the grocery store. The body language says one thing but the words say another. Later, I might recall that incident and use pieces in my work, subtleties from the way the woman shook her finger in the man's face or the downturned mouth and faraway look in the man's eyes.

Do you have a favourite author or book (or writer or film or series) that has influenced you or that you return to?

So many. Larry Brooks, Karin Slaughter, Katia Lief, Lee Childs, Thomas Harris, Nora Roberts, Iris Johansen, Lisa Gardner...I could go on and on. Like interactions, I think what we read also influences our work.

Who is the person you would most like to be trapped in a lift with? or a spaceship?

My husband and my dog, Cascius. He'd cry if Mommy went into space without him, which would break my heart.

Who is the person you would most DISlike to be trapped in a lift with? Or a spaceship?

Someone disingenuous. I dislike fake people.

What would you pack for space? (Is there a food, beverage, book, teddy bear, etc that you couldn't do without?)

Silence of the Lambs. The story never gets old. And my pillow and blanket. Comfort is important.

What is the most important thing you would like to get/achieve from your work?

I'd be thrilled if folks enjoyed reading my stories as much as I enjoyed writing them. Anything beyond that is like a cherry on an ice cream sundae. It's nice but not necessary.

What is the special satisfaction of your work?

I love being a crime writer. The research, learning new things to make my stories ring true. Chatting with law enforcement. Most are always willing to help. Writing is embedded in my soul, so that's always rewarding. Reading. I love a good thriller/mystery. There isn't much I don't enjoy about this profession.

submitted by Sue Coletta

October 1, 2015

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Just the facts:
Born: October 4th.
Resides: Alexandria, New Hampshire.
Bibliography/Awards:
An excerpt of MARRED scored first placement in Murder, USA, an anthology.

Web site:
www.suecoletta.com
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Tirgearr Publishing