Beyond Bugs Meaney

If the trick to writing mystery novels is finding a niche, Excelsior Springs authors Lawrence and Suella Walsh have succeeded by setting a whodunit in Missouri's humble wine country. "We have not read a mystery based in Missouri. That's why we wanted to set our novel here," Lawrence says of the couple's first adult mystery, The Last O'Neil. "It's time the Midwest got recognition." All nine of their works, including children's mystery novels, take place in the region. The Last O'Neil features a small-town woman, Shannon O'Neil, with a murdered relative and a wicked family tree. The Walshes will explore the new characters' adventures through a series, the second installment of which is in the works. Mystery writer Loren Estleman calls the heroine "Nancy Drew for the 21st century, with the kicker of a personal stake in the solution." Genre aficionados take note: Shannon even has an aunt named Agatha. Tonight, writers introduce the novel at a 7 p.m. event called Wine, Brie and Mystery at I Love a Mystery Bookstore (6114 Johnson Drive in Mission, 913-432-2583). It's an ideal place to discuss the genre — but beware of daggers, poison and other potential weapons stashed throughout the store.
Thu., Dec. 6, 7 p.m., 2007