Interview with Kathleen Vincenz, Author of My Chicest Paris Mystery

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write My Chicest Paris Mystery?

The idea for My Chicest Paris Mystery came to me while I stood in line to visit the gargoyles atop Notre Dame in Paris, many years before the fire. I was so inspired to write her story that I plopped down on the sidewalk and scribbled a scene about her in my notebook. Writing about Misty, an overexcited American teen in love with Paris, was easy because I was an overexcited American woman in love with Paris. My trip was filled with mishaps: my credit cards didn’t work, I ran out of money, got lost every day, and was almost run over crossing a roundabout. Despite all of this, I loved every minute and can’t wait to go back.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of My Chicest Paris Mystery, what would they be?

“An American in Paris”, A bit obvious but it conveys the joy and chaos of Paris. 🙂

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

I like to read both new and old middle-grade fiction, like ‘Raymie Nightingale’ by Kate DiCamillo and ‘Betsy in Spite of Herself’ by Maud Hart Lovelace.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

A vintage copy of Nancy Drew’s The Secret of the Old Clock and Eighty Days, and a nonfiction account of journalist Nellie Bly’s journey around the world inspired by Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The scene where Misty and her scruffy-bearded friend ride through the cobblestone streets of Paris and munch a freshly baked baguette. Through Misty’s eyes, I wanted readers to see the Eiffel Tower’s strange majesty, feel the wind on them as they whipped through the streets, and taste the crackling crust of the baguette. They would experience, with Misty, her first adventure and the joy that comes with it. That’s why we read, isn’t it? To step into someone else’s shoes, to see the world through their eyes, and to feel the empathy that connects us all.

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

I get a lot of my ideas while walking or swimming. But like most writers, I like the coziness of a coffee shop. Being surrounded by others helps me stay focused so I don’t jump on social media.

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

Everyone deserves a good book that makes them laugh and cry. I hope my writing gives them that.

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

Whether your journey takes you through the cobblestone streets of Paris or keeps you at home, treasure yourself and embrace living and dressing in a way that fits you, free from preconceived notions. Remember, people, even your relatives, will love you for being you. Vive la you!

Kathleen Vincenz is the author of the new book My Chicest Paris Mystery

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