Who is Tanzy Kohl?

Good question! Besides being the author of several mystery novels (three soon to come), she is the alter ego of Faith Knight, an award-winning historical fiction author.

Tanzy is the name I coined to write in the mystery genre specifically to keep my historical fiction life separate from my mystery life. The two are not interchangeable (until I decide to write a historical mystery!).

Now that we’ve cleared that up, let’s discuss what I’ve been doing to get my Wig Maker Mystery series off the ground.

First, I researched the cozy mystery genre by reading other authors such as Cleo Coyle, Valeri Burns, Tonya Kappes, Sandra Jackson Opuko, and Korina Moss, to name a few.

Next, I started writing! And once I got started, I discovered that writing mysteries is a LOT different than historical fiction, especially having to keep up with the suspects, red herrings, and clues! Oh my!.

Step number 3: Hire a developmental editor. I was fortunate to find Korina Moss, who not only edits but also has several cozy series under her belt, and she has assisted my journey immensely.

Step 4: Apply the advice and make changes. For me that meant a complete rewrite! But never fear; it was a pain but worth it.

Step 5: Fine-tuning. For me this means checking for illogical plot points, dull characterizations, and overused words.

And last but not least, clean up, such as grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

Now I am ready to release Lethal Lacefront to the world and move on to Slayed & Laid to Rest (book 2) and 13×6 Feet Deep (book 3).

Whew! That was a lot, but hey, Dee and Ruby are worth it.

If you want to SEE AND HEAR about my journey, follow my Wig & Book Vlog on YouTube at @mymaturestyle, where I actually review wigs just like Dee!