What would drive a seemingly quiet and kind young man to murder his new bride? This was the key question I needed to answer as I developed this character, for this act was the key to my ghost’s commitment to seeking revenge.
I decided the parents of my two main characters–James and Autumn–would seek an arranged marriage to fulfill their hopes of a legacy. Autumn had no choice but to please her parents. James, likewise. The clash of personalities between the two set the stage for James’ actions.
Autumn was a free spirit and disdained her husband’s apparent weakness in all matters, from their wedding night to his tending of the vineyard. Nothing pleased her. James soon gives up trying to please her and focuses solely on the vineyard, to prove he is worthy of respect. Until…it became too much. Her chiding and chastising. And then, the thought came to him…Without her, he could have it all. It would be easy. An unexplained illness. A poisoning would be perfect.
The scene where James sits alongside Autumn’s parents, feigning concern brought me to tears. It was the first time I wrote something so heart-breaking and horrific and still remains one of those “scenes” for me.
James changes over the years and convinces himself that he’s a new man. Worthy of love. Enter Louise–the woman who loves him unconditionally, even after she discovers the truth. Want to meet her, Redwood is available now on Zon or you can order directly
. I have Audible codes I’m happy to share.
Pictured: An unknown couple from the family archives that I used as an inspiration.
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