Griffin
Tate, hero of The
Penhallow Train Incident, graciously agreed to an interview, which really
gives you an idea of who (what?) he is. The Penhallow Train Incident is ON SALE
at Amazon for 99 cents through March 18—so get your copy now! It is currently featured at the 2022 Winter Readers Challenge as well.
Questions:
Where are you from?
Hard to
say. Growing up we traveled a lot—lived in Europe, the Middle East, and lots of
U. S. States. I didn’t really settle down until after graduate school when
University of Chicago hired me as an assistant professor. Went from there to
Queenstown University in New Jersey and now happily ensconced in Maine.
Tell us a bit about The Penhallow Train Incident.
I
sure enjoyed being part of the story, although I’d never admit it aloud. The
Penhallow Train Incident is a
funny, romantic, murder mystery set in Maine.
Rachel Tinker, director of the
Penhallow Historical Society, meets her match in Griffin Tate, curmudgeonly retired professor (that’s me).
Together we wade through a scene awash in red herrings to solve not one, but
three murders. If, in fact, they are murders (I was never convinced, but don’t
tell Rachel—she’ll just scoff). Along the way we deal with ancient rumors,
ancient crime, and ancient tragedy, as Rachel—poor besotted soul--gropes nearer
and nearer to love.
What did you think the first time you saw Rachel Tinker?
One more
thing I’ll never admit, although she guessed, but I fell for her the first time
I saw her on campus at Queenstown, surrounded by young acne-scarred, snot-nosed
whippersnappers.
What was your second thought?
That she’d never give me a second glance.
Did you feel it was love at first sight?
Nah, she
was way too chilly—you know how those female academics are. Besides, like I
said, it wasn’t worth even approaching her—she was always surrounded by
pimply-faced, weak-chinned undergrads.
What do you like most about her?
Do I have
to say it? Sheesh, nosy little bugger, aren’t you. I suppose I’d have to say
her curiosity, and of course her willingness to agree with everything I say. Oh
wait, that’s my dog.
How would you describe her?
Well, she
is rather beautiful, in a sensible
way. She doesn’t seem to mind my occasional moods. She’s very bright for a
girl, and willing to learn. Yes, I’d give her an A.
How would she describe you?
You’d
have to ask her. Whatever I say she’ll dispute.
What made you choose Middle East history as a career?
I lived
in the Middle East in my youth and naturally veered toward it in school.
What is your biggest fear?
Losing
Rachel—and having her know that’s my greatest fear.
How do you relax?
Nap.
Beer. Sail. Chase after stolen artifacts.
Who is your favorite fictional character and why?
The Queen
of Sheba—if in fact she’s fictional. If not, Indiana Jones.
What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
Sit down
and shut up.
