Dark Waters: Crafting Mystery and Meaning in the Northwoods

Join author Amy Pease as she discusses her gripping debut novel, Northwoods, a layered mystery that explores how far people will go to protect the ones they love. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Wisconsin’s lake country, the story follows a troubled sheriff’s deputy investigating the death of a teenage boy, while confronting his own demons from military service. Pease will share her journey crafting this emotionally resonant thriller, including how she developed its rich cast of characters, built suspense across multiple timelines, and tackled sensitive themes like PTSD, addiction, and family trauma. She’ll discuss how setting plays a crucial role in mystery writing and how she used the stark beauty and isolation of the Northwoods to amplify the story’s mood and themes. Join us for an engaging conversation about writing, redemption, and finding light in dark places.