Baked Crime, Anyone?
A traditional New England clambake is a delicious communal feast of clams, lobster, corn, and potatoes. But have you ever heard of a CrimeBake?
A traditional New England clambake is a delicious communal feast of clams, lobster, corn, and potatoes. But have you ever heard of a crime bake? The New England Crime Bake is a conference that serves up a different kind of delightful menu “for writers and lovers of crime writing in New England.” This year, the title is a playful warning: “These Boots Are Made for Murder.” I’ve attended the Crime Bake for several years, and it's been central to my development as a writer.
Here’s more from their website about the event:
“Sponsored by the New England chapters of Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime, Crime Bake is a learning experience, a networking opportunity, and a wonderful time.”
It truly is. The conference brings together writers, librarians, agents, and editors across every crime genre—from cozy mysteries (like mine!) to thrillers and true crime. I've loved every minute of it, attending panels on crafting memorable characters and Q&A sessions with former detectives-turned-authors. I've heard keynote speeches from the likes of Hank Phillippi Ryan and Deborah Crombie and shared lunch with Susan Zalkind. My mindset has shifted dramatically over the years:
It started as: “Can I write a novel? This is just a fun hobby.”
It became: “I’m going to learn everything I need to know about mystery writing and get good at it.”
Now, I’m serious: “I’m serious about a career as a cozy mystery writer, and I’m planning The Movie House Mysteries series.”
This year, as I continue shaping and deepening the manuscript for my first cozy mystery, Reel Danger in the Dunes, I’m stepping into the “Agents & Editors Track” with a development mindset. Instead of pitching just yet, I’ll be practicing my story summary, testing my opening page, and gathering feedback that will help me strengthen the next draft. I’m even staying overnight for the Saturday night banquet—a country/western-themed event with live music—which feels like the perfect time to celebrate progress and meet fellow writers, agents, and editors. My website is up, my business cards are printed, and I’m ready to soak it all in, cowgirl boots and all.
Wish me luck as I take Reel Danger in the Dunes on its first little adventure out into the world! Every panel, conversation, and dance step gets me closer to sharing Viv’s Cape Cod mystery with readers who love small-town secrets and second chances as much as I do. Whether you’re a fellow writer or simply a mystery lover, I’d love to hear—what draws you into a good whodunit? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Lights, Camera, Action
Welcome to my blog!
Hello everyone, and welcome!
My name is Maggie, and I’m the author of Reel Danger in the Dunes, the first book in The Movie House Mysteries, a cozy mystery series set on Cape Cod in the fictional town of East Beach. Right now, I’m in the development phase, expanding the story’s layers and deepening its world as I prepare to bring it to publication. I’m so excited to start bringing you along on my journey!
In Reel Danger in the Dunes, you’ll meet Viv, a struggling actress, and follow her investigation into the murder of a beloved former babysitter. There’s mystery, friendship, romance and even a touch of movie magic.
You know what I still can’t get over? The entire premise is based on a real memory from childhood. When I was a kid exploring Cape Cod, a friend and I stumbled across an abandoned dune shack. Something awful might have happened there, but we were completely oblivious. Scary, right? More about that in a future blog!
Won’t you follow along as I share the. twists, turns, and creative joys of bringing Reel Danger in the Dunes to life? I’d love to have you in the front row! 🎬