We chat with author Jayne Ann Krentz about The Shop on Hidden Lane, which is an enthralling new romantic suspense novel filled with deeply entrenched grudges, psychic dangers, and a conspiracy that threatens not only two families but also the entire paranormal community.
Hi, Jayne! Welcome back! How has the past three years been since we last spoke for Sleep No More?
Has it really been three years? Things have been good—it’s all a blur—but good. Thanks for inviting me back. It’s great to be in touch again.
Your latest novel, The Shop on Hidden Lane, is out now! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?
Psychic suspense with a dog.
What can readers expect?
A hero and heroine from feuding families who are forced to work together to recover a secret device that both clans have sworn to protect. There is murder by psychic means. And a dog.
Where did the inspiration for The Shop on Hidden Lane come from?
When it comes to plots with a psychic vibe all I have to do is open the plot cupboard. The ideas fall into my hands. Turns out the U.S. Government as well as other governments, major universities and private contractors spent decades running serious paranormal experiments in an arms race effort to create psychic spies and weapons. Really, you can’t make this stuff up.
Were there any moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?
The book was fun to write but I especially enjoyed creating the mysterious art colony in the red rock country of Arizona.
Did you face any challenges whilst writing? How did you overcome them?
Every book is a challenge. Writing wouldn’t be any fun if that were not true. When it comes to dealing with writing challenges, there is only one way that works for me: keep writing. I can always go back and fix it.
What are some of the key lessons you’ve learned when it comes to writing and publishing since your debut?
Know your core story and be prepared to reinvent yourself over and over again. Publishers change, genres evolve, marketing methods are always a moving target.
What’s next for you?
The title of my May release is ENTER THE NIGHTMARE. It’s futuristic psychic suspense set on the planet Harmony. I write that series as Jayne Castle. No dogs involved but there are dust bunnies. Don’t ask.
Lastly, what books are you looking forward to picking up this year?
Lots and lots! Such as: AND THE CROWD WENT WILD by Susan Elizabeth Phillips, THE VERMILION SEA by Megan Chance and A BOX FULL OF DARKNESS by Simone St. James.
