Interview with Jessica Carrasquillo, Author of Mysteries of the Southern Gothic

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Mysteries of the Southern Gothic?

I’m an avid true crime consumer, and just before writing Mysteries of the Southern Gothic, I had finished I’ll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara. The reference to the “Candy Bandit” in my book is actually a nod to McNamara’s podcast, where she once covered a man called “The Cookie Bandit.” I’ve always been drawn to stories of those who, in their pursuit of the truth, sometimes find themselves deeply affected by the journey, even losing a part of themselves along the way. The story of Calliope and her brother Ulysses comes from a personal place. It was inspired by a friend who struggled with addiction after his younger sister was kidnapped and murdered. I witnessed how profoundly trauma can change a person, and I wanted to explore a scenario where someone like Ulysses managed to rebuild his life, using his pain to help others. However, revisiting that trauma brings its own challenges, and Ulysses’s struggle with his past and old habits became a central theme in the book.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I love romance, psychological thrillers, and mysteries, and my writing tends to reflect a blend of all three.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

So many! I’m excited to read Some Kind of Forever by Layna James and The Rules of Playing with Fire by Varsha Chitnis. I’m also looking forward to finishing The Forgotten Series by Julian Kennedy.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I particularly enjoyed writing the scene where Ulysses returns to the Order. It was a pivotal moment in the story and in his character’s journey.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

Not too quirky! I’m most productive in my cozy writing nook in my office. It’s where the magic happens.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

“Do it scared.” Most of the things worth doing will scare you at first, whether it’s writing a vulnerable story, taking on a new project, or facing a tough decision. The key is to move forward despite the fear, trusting that growth and discovery often come from those moments of discomfort. For me, writing is sometimes scary because you’re exposing parts of yourself, but that’s also where the most rewarding work comes from.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

The story isn’t over yet! There’s still more to come for Rosario and Shawnee. Their journey continues, and the next case they take on is going to challenge them in unexpected ways.

Jessica Carrasquillo is the author of the new book Mysteries of the Southern Gothic

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