Sydney Graves Debuts with Noir Mystery “The Arizona Triangle”
Renowned author Kate Christensen introduces her hardboiled mystery novel, “The Arizona Triangle,” under the pen name Sydney Graves. This debut work intricately blends the author’s passions for Scandinavian and Southwestern noir, echoing the styles of literary icons Henning Mankell and Sue Grafton. Drawing from her Californian roots and upbringing in Arizona, Graves presents a dark, gripping tale that promises to captivate readers with its blend of vivid language and complex characters.
In a recent Q&A, Graves shared her motivations for using a pseudonym, explaining that it adds a layer of excitement to her work. “I don’t believe in a literary-genre split,” she said, emphasizing that the fundamentals of storytelling across genres are fundamentally similar. She intends to develop “The Arizona Triangle” into a series featuring detective Jo Bailen, setting the stage for future installments to be published under her true identity.
When asked about her reading preferences, Graves highlighted her admiration for classic detective stories, citing Sue Grafton, Dick Francis, and Dorothy L. Sayers as significant influences. She described her reading habits as driven by a deep “visceral craving” for variety and richness in storytelling, blending cherished classics with fresh contemporary works.
Additionally, Graves recounted the profound impact that W. Somerset Maugham’s “Of Human Bondage” had on her as a young aspiring writer, solidifying her commitment to crafting deeply engaging narratives. “The Arizona Triangle” marks a significant debut in the genre, blending Graves’s personal history with her literary aspirations. Expect this thrilling series to unravel the dark undercurrents of crime and character in the American Southwest.
Published on November 14, 2024.
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