Today, we’re thrilled to chat with Kate Carlisle, the acclaimed author of the “Bibliophile Mysteries” series. Her captivating books blend rare books, history, and intriguing mysteries. Join us as we explore her creative process and passion for the world of books.

Your “Bibliophile Mysteries” series is so beloved. What initially sparked the idea for a series centered around rare books and a bibliophile protagonist?

Thank you for the lovely compliment! Since childhood, I have been interested in the book arts. I have always loved books not just for the stories or information in the pages, but also as objects. I am certainly not as accomplished a bookbinder as my character Brooklyn Wainwright, but I have taken many classes over the years on making and repairing books. I adore it.

When I began to brainstorm a mystery series—because publishers were looking more for ongoing series than for standalone mysteries—bookbinding was a natural fit. And then I dreamed up the hook of having each modern-day mystery echo the themes of the rare book in Brooklyn’s care, and it fired up my imagination so that I absolutely couldn’t wait to write the books.

It’s been the honor of my career that so many readers love to read the Bibliophile Mysteries—especially now that they’re being translated into multiple languages!

How do you conduct research for your books, especially when it comes to the historical aspects of books or the craft of bookbinding?

Research is one of my favorite parts of the writing process—to the detriment of my ability to meet my deadline, if I’m being honest. It’s just so pleasurable to learn new things that I find myself spending more time reading than writing when I’m at the start of a new story.

Like most writers, a lot of my research is done online. However, I do also have a friend who is an accomplished book restoration expert, who is always willing to talk books with me.

What does a typical writing day look like for you? Do you have any specific routines or rituals that help you get into a creative flow?

I spend a great deal of time outlining my books before I start writing them. And then as I get into the story, I forget that I have an outline and let the ideas carry me where they will. And then when I find myself backed into a corner, I remember that outline and delete, delete, delete to get myself back on track. It’s a very messy process, and I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone.

I wouldn’t say that I have any rituals, but I do find in general that I do my best writing in the morning when my brain is fresh. As the day goes on, there are too many distractions.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of being a published author?

You know that spark of joy you feel when you meet someone who loved one of your favorite books? I get that same feeling multiplied by a hundred when readers tell me that they love the books I write. It’s the ultimate compliment because that means that they love my mind and my heart. Connecting with my readers is without a doubt the most rewarding aspect of being an author.

To thank my most avid readers, I’ve created a lot of very fun bonus content in the Secret Room of my website, http://www.KateCarlisle.com. There are puzzles and games and maps from the books, plus more information about the characters, including family trees. I’m always looking for new ways to express my gratitude to my wonderful readers.

Thank you, Kate Carlisle, for sharing your insights with us. Your passion for books truly shines through, and it’s clear why the “Bibliophile Mysteries” are so beloved. We appreciate you giving us a glimpse into your creative world.