17 Comments
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Toni's avatar

Oh my, wonder how that behavior would be seen if she gets caught while she ransacks China’s things. Hope China put them back into the trunk.

Maria Luz O'Rourke's avatar

Very fun read, Susan! Thank you. What a treat!

Leslie Rasmussen's avatar

Wonderfully vivid encounter. That clever China!

Carolyn Clock Allen's avatar

I loved it. China (crafted by you) is so skillful at manipulating Roz in this episode. I can guess what happens next and look forward EAGERLY to the next episode!!!

Georgeann Hendrick's avatar

I especially liked the pause for the teakettle whistling - and to then make tea.

Susan Wittig Albert's avatar

That kind of detail helps readers visualize the character and her setting--especially useful in a scene where the character has a longish reflection. Also helps to vary the pace a bit, and punctuate the thought.

Carolyn Clock Allen's avatar

Your writing skills are impressive. I know, I keep saying that, but they are. I'm very interested in HOW you move the story along and HOW you pace it...

Susan Wittig Albert's avatar

Cozies tend to get bogged down in the domestic details. When I was writing the early books in this series, I was studying Sue Grafton's early Kinsey Millhone mysteries. She was a master of pacing: just enough background detail to give the story some depth, but every scene was designed to advance one of the plots (there were always 2 or 3).

Georgeann Hendrick's avatar

My initial reaction was to say, "Hold the tea and continue."

Susan J Tweit's avatar

So good, Susan! I devour each episode. :)

Susan Wittig Albert's avatar

Thank you, Susan.

Lindy Barnes's avatar

Susan, how can I begin reading with Episode 1?

Susan Wittig Albert's avatar

Lindy, here's the link: https://susanwittigalbert.substack.com/s/a-bitter-taste-of-garlic That's where you can find all the episodes, latest at the top. In case you lose that link, I include it at the top of every emailed episode. Thanks for asking!

Lynne Mayer's avatar

Love China being sneaky, playing cat and mouse with Roz!

Susan Wittig Albert's avatar

China's enjoying it, too.