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Interview with Lee E. Meadows ByPhillip Tomasso III Lee Meadows is the author of the Lincoln Keller Mystery series. Read our reviews of Silent Conspiracy and Silent Suspicion. The third book in the series titled Silent Rage is in progress. PHILLIP TOMASSO III - Welcome to this interview, Lee. What seems so appealing about writing mysteries as opposed to any other genre? LEE MEADOWS - I am attracted to the subtle aspects of human behavior, because I believe that is where the true meaning of our experiences are found. Mysteries allow me the opportunity to explore what lies underneath the surface of our being, and to examine the real motivations that stir us. So a good mystery should pull the reader into the more sublime aspects of our behavior while engaging the reader in an entertaining romp. Who were some of your author influences? I was greatly influenced by the work of Chester Himes and his series featuring Coffin Ed Johnson and Gravedigger Jones - although at the time, I didn't realize I was being set up to actually want to write mysteries. I became a fan of Ross McDonald and Raymond Chandler, and didn't know how much I would enjoy Sue Grafton until I read 'A' is for Alibi. Michigan authors like Loren Estleman, Elmore Leonard and Lev Rafael have helped to shape my character..I have thoroughly enjoyed Marcia Muller's series. My most contemporary influence has been Walter Mosley. Through him, I realized that there was a market for my writer's voice and my perspective on life and events. Why did you choose a Private Investigator as opposed to an amateur sleuth? I see the Private Investigator in fiction as the last independent entrepreneur, and thought it would be fun to explore that aspect of a working life. The idea of being paid to snoop seemed a fascinating concept. And admittedly, there is a certain urban grittiness that comes with writing about a guy who finds his rhythm by walking the city beat. What compelled you to create the Lincoln Keller Mystery series? My love of detective novels, and wanting to have mystery readers see the city of Detroit through the eyes of an African-American writer who actually grew up there, are part of my reasons for creating Lincoln Keller. The idea of a character who investigates and solves mysteries in Detroit seemed like a fun forum to try. For me, Lincoln Keller is a character who is getting back in touch with his roots after a long absence. Detroit's growth and revitalization will be seen through the eyes of Lincoln Keller. What makes this series different from other mystery series? The primary characters and many of the peripheral characters are African-American, although not exclusively. This series takes the African-American experience and broadens the lens from the typical portrayals seen on television, in movies and unfortunately, as viewed in some mystery books. These characters feel and act just as anyone else would, minus the extremes. My hope is to educate as well as entertain. How much has your own background contributed to the development of this series? I am a Professor of Business Mangement and I consult and deliver Management skills. My background is in corporate business and university administration. So, practically nothing in my own background contributed to the development of this series . However, I have met so many interesting characters along the wa, that they have become indirect contributors to the series. I work as a trainer of First-Line Supervisory skills for new Sergeants with Police Agencies across the state of Michigan, so I have access to a lot of great stories. Where does Lee Meadows leave off and Lincoln Keller begin? At the point where Keller starts to investigate things that pertain to his case, he becomes his own character. I am not compelled to investigate those kinds of matters. Keller is somewhat of an extension of my own personality, although deliberately not in too many ways. Writing in the first person makes it difficult to separate the voice, but Keller is clearly more adventurous than I am. Who are some of the ongoing characters in the series? Readers will always spend time getting to know all the Keller brothers. There’s the eldest, Jefferson, retired from the U.S Marshall’s Office and is now working as a Fugitive Apprehension Agent; Roosevelt, the manager of a local radio station; and Truman, the youngest brother and president of a UAW local, his primary support and network of information. Julie, the Duchess of the Database will always be around taking care of their computer information needs as well as Roosevelt's wife Rae, both ardent Michigan State University alumni and occasional visits from other characters I will weave in and out. Does promoting one's novel today present a difficult challenge? Without the backing of a major publisher, which is also limited, it is truly fend for yourself. Fortunately, one meets good and supportive people along the way who help make the burden a little easier, but it is no small task. For us lesser known authors, sometimes just trying to get a radio interview on a morning talk show that airs from midnight to 5:00 am is like pulling teeth. But with each accomplishment, I believe you move closer to the dream of actually earning a living by writing full time. My, what a concept! What's next for Lincoln Keller and Lee Meadows? I am hard at work on the next novel in the series, with a possible July 2001release date. I have a good relationship with a small press (Proctor Publications ) here in Ann Arbor who has already committed to publishing Silent Rage. Lee Meadows will continue writing Keller mysteries, promoting his work to anyone who will listen and building a following of fans. Maybe someday, I'll be able to write full time and help others get their work out there too. Any closing thoughts or comments? It’s important for me to acknowledge the work being done by so many people dedicated to advancing the mystery genre. I shudder to think where authors would be if these venues did not exist and I hope many others decide to follow their dream of writing in the mystery genre. Thank you for this opportunity to be interviewed. Visit Lee Meadows’ web page at MurderXpress, hosted by Elizabeth Henze. Readers can contact the author via email at lee.meadows@worldnet.att.net |
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