The Pitfalls and Pratfalls of Writing a Humorous Cozy Series — guest Vickie Fee

by Posted on

Today we welcome guest Vickie Fee the author of the Liv and Di in Dixie mystery series. I think the Liv and Di in Dixie idea is so clever and fun! Thanks for stopping by Vickie! Vickie is giving a way a mug (pictured front and back) a bag of coffee and a copy of her latest novel It’s Your Party Die If You Want To. Leave a comment below for a chance to win!

cozyintofallpromobk2Here’s a little bit about the book: Between a riverboat gambler-themed engagement party and a murder mystery dinner for charity, Dixie, Tennessee party planner Liv McKay is far too frenzied to feel festive. Add to the mix her duties at the annual businesswomen’s retreat and the antics of a celebrity ghost-hunting diva, and Liv’s schedule is turning out to be the scariest thing about this Halloween—until the ladies stumble across a dead body in a cemetery…

Morgan Robison was a party girl with a penchant for married men and stirring up a cauldron of drama. Any number of scorned wives or frightened philanderers could be behind her death. As Liv and her best friend, Di, set out to dig up the truth, they’ll face the unexpected and find their efforts hampered by a killer with one seriously haunting vendetta…

If you’ve read the first or second novel in my Liv and Di in Dixie mystery series, you may think they’re humorous – or not. But if you scan through some of the reviews on Amazon, you’ll see a number of readers describe them as funny, fun, humorous. A few reviews have even dubbed them laugh-out-loud funny. Of course, a recent GoodReads review commented there was a bit of humor, but she wished there’d been more.

One of the risks of writing humor is that what’s funny to one person isn’t necessarily funny to another.

its-your-party-die-if-you-want-to-qWhen I’m writing, I’m aware some people will find the books humorous and some not so much. But there are other elements in the stories — Southern charm, sass, colorful characters, family ties, some parties, since my protagonist is a party planner — and even a few dead bodies and a little mystery. So when I complete a manuscript I’m optimistic that I’ve thrown a little something in the pot for everyone.

Since becoming a published author, I’ve encountered a less obvious peril of writing a humorous series: People who think the books are funny for some reason assume the author is also funny. It was initially terrifying for me at in-person events when I realized people expected me to be funny.

I can be mildly amusing at dinner parties with a small group of friends who know me well and have managed expectations, depending on how much we’ve had to drink.
But a stand-up comic, I’m not. With strangers the best I can usually manage is funny in a socially awkward, hopefully endearing in a nerdy, but not pathetic way. And that’s my best trick.

With the recent release of my second book, I have several in-person events lined up in the next month or so. Just thinking about it gives me sweaty palms. My husband, who knows me well, has told me many times this year since the release of the first book how proud he is that I’ve pushed myself so far outside my comfort zone to promote the books. There’s a reason for that. It’s called fear. My fear of not selling any books is greater than my fear of embarrassing social situations.

So I’ve developed a couple of strategies to help me through personal appearances.
(BTW, envisioning the audience naked does nothing to allay my fears. If anything it makes me feel even more uncomfortable).

Any time I possibly can, I love doing events with other authors. Being part of a flock or gaggle, or even a pair, is far less intimidating for nerds in the wild than flying solo.
This provides the added advantage of hawking each other’s books. I can gush about another author’s book in a way that would seem egomaniacal if I said such things about my own book.

In addition to safety in numbers, I keep one card up my sleeve. I rehearse one   funny answer to a fairly common question. If no one actually asks me that question during the Q & A, I play like a politician and work their question around to my prepared answer. Not vickiefeemug1being a stand-up comic, I’m still working on my delivery. But the audience generally cuts me some slack for being such an obviously socially awkward book nerd — which actually gives me some street cred as an author.

Vickie Fee is the author of the Liv and Di in Dixie mystery series from Kensington. She blesses hearts and makes Jack Daniels whiskey balls that’ll scorch your tonsils. Her latest book, It’s Your Party, Die If you Want To, came out last week. Book Three in the series, One Fete in the Grave, will be released in May 2017. Find Vickie at www.vickiefee.com

Readers: What about the rest of you, do you have any tips for handling nerves, speaking in public, embracing your inner nerd, or overcoming social awkwardness?

Unknown's avatar

Published by Sherry Harris

Sherry Harris is the author of the Agatha Award nominated Sarah Winston Garage Sale Mystery series and the Chloe Jackson Sea Glass Mystery series.

116 Thoughts

  1. Hello Vicki, what a better way to have a deliciios cup of coffee and read your new book on a nice Fall morning. Thanks for the contest and looking forward to Its Your Party Die if You Want To. Thanks, Maureen

    Like

  2. Vickie, welcome to the blog! It sounds like such a fun series. I am not particularly funny, either. But I am comfortable with public speaking. It’s always good to remember that everyone in the audience ties their shoes one at a time, just like you do, and that you can’t please everyone.

    Like

  3. I try to avoid speaking in public unless it’s a small group. I’m a reader not a writer so it’s easier for me. I’m looking forward to starting this series.

    Like

    1. Thanks, Gram! I’m torn. The awkward nerd in me feels more comfortable with a small group. But the author promoting my book part of me, naturally, would like bigger crowds 🙂

      Like

  4. Hi, Vicki. I think it’s too late for you to use my favorite trick. Pen name. Yep, Kait can do what I cannot. Otherwise, I just remember that people are interested and readers are a fantastic audience because they care about the books and the authors.

    Like

    1. Thanks, Kait! Mmm, pen name… I didn’t think that one through 🙂 But you’re right, readers tend to be a very kind bunch!

      Like

  5. Hi, Vicki — I’ve read both your books and they are delightful–and funny. Wishing you continuing success with your writing.

    Like

    1. Thanks, Barb! I don’t think everyone in the group expects funny — but I hate to disappoint anyone. Given enough time, if I keep doing this author gig, maybe I’ll actually develop my very latent comedy talents 🙂

      Like

    1. As a new author — this is just my second book — I’m just now getting into the joint appearances bit. And I love it! Tomorrow I’m on a mystery panel with cozy author Maggie Pill, and next weekend I’m doing a joint signing downstate with the fab Peg Cochran. It’s fun, and I feel like a little of their shine rubs off on me, as well 🙂

      Like

    2. Aw, thanks, Sherry. You’re one of those shiny people I’d love to do a joint event with sometime — and my sister lives in Alexandria, Va! So maybe sometime, when our release dates land near each other on the calendar…

      Like

  8. Loved the first book & can’t wait to read this one! Enjoyed reading your post. Thank you for the fantastic giveaway!

    Like

  9. I do not like speaking in front of a crowd. I barely made it through my speech class in college!!

    Like

  10. Your series sounds like really fun reading! As for public speaking, I very much empathize; I’ve always been in awe of those who look like they do it effortlessly. Congratulations on pushing past that barrier and getting out there!

    Like

    1. Thanks, Vida! I agree, I think we have to give ourselves credit for boldly going forth, even when we’re quivering on the inside!

      Like

  12. I, like many other people, have had to learn to embrace public speaking. When I can, I volunteer to go first so I can get it over with. Rehearsing is key, and so are a few notecards for those “what was I saying?” moments. Make eye contact with the crowd, speak loudly, and fake it til you make it….pretend you are more confident than you are and it will come. I take solace in knowing that most people don’t like public speaking either and generally aren’t judging. And if you mess up, acknowledge it and laugh at yourself. Everyone likes a person who can laugh at him/herself. 🙂 All that being said, I prefer not to speak in public if I can avoid it!

    Like

    1. You’re right, Amanda. I’ve been trying that “pretend you are more confident than you are” bit. I still feel nervous, but I’ve had people who know me pretty well say that I didn’t seem nervous. So, who knows, maybe it’s working better than I think!

      Like

    1. Thanks for stopping by, Barbarakay! Right, at least the books give me a reason to start the conversation 🙂

      Like

  14. It was a requirement of my job to speak in front of groups, but I learned.
    Your book sounds great and can’t wait to read it.
    Thank you for the giveaway!

    Like

    1. Thanks, Mary. We do what we have to, right? Maybe I’ll become less awkward — and even funnier — as I go along!

      Like

  15. Hello,
    This books sounds very interesting, going to go and check it out now 😊. Have a wonderful day!!!!

    Like

      1. I have to tell you I bought it and I’m not even half way through it and I love it already!!! Looking forward to finishing it up and starting on the next. Have a great day 😊
        Missy

        Like

  16. I applaud you for getting on stage despite your fear. I like to lie low and embrace my fear =)
    Humor has a lot to do with a person’s attitude and willingness to be open, along with the writer’s ability to keep the person reading. You do a great job, keep it up!

    Like

  17. I can tell you from experience that clergy wear robes to hide shaking legs. People say I preach well, but it still seems overwhelming at times. All we can do is take care of ourselves.

    Like

    1. Wow, Andrea, the stakes are definitely higher with your gig! But you’ve given me an idea. Really long skirts…hmmm

      Like

  18. I’m initially shy in most social situations and am not good at initiating conversation with a stranger. But if it is a gathering where common interests are shared, once the ice is broken I can hold my own. Conversely, I never minded doing presentations in front of a group as long as I was adequately prepared. Thanks for an interesting interview and giveaway!

    Like

    1. Thanks, Carole! I tell myself that even if the words don’t come out quite right, maybe, at least, they’ll be funny 🙂

      Like

  21. I just try not to worry about what people think about me. Just discovered this series and really enjoyed it. Can’t wait to read this next book.

    Like

    1. Thanks so much, Melissa! I definitely worry too much. But I’m so good at worrying — it’s a hobby, really!

      Like

  22. I don’t do much, if any, public speaking, but back in the day I sang a lot in front of people. Taking a deep breath and a quick prayer always got me through things. Thank you for the chance to win this fun giveaway.

    Like

    1. Thanks, Daniele! The thought of singing in front of people terrifies me more than speaking. I have done karaoke, but that’s not the same as really singing!

      Like

  23. Hello Vickie! The book looks awesome to read and the rest of the set is really cute! Thank you for a chance to win.

    Like

  24. The only difference between Vickie & myself is that she an put this all into words so well. I’m a much better hostess than guest because I know everyone at my parties.Btw – I think Vickie needs to bring those Jack Daniels Whiskey Balls to our Christmas Eve party if they can make it this year!

    Like

  25. Great giveaway. I don’t like public speaking. My common response to dealing with a lot of situations is humor. Thanks for the chance

    Like

  26. I can certainly see the pressure. After all, if you can come up with jokes on the page that you’ve had months to think about and rewrite, you can easily comes up with jokes on the spot, right?

    Like

    1. Exactly, Mark. Speaking off the cuff in a Q & A is like a first draft. And we all know that first drafts tend to suck!

      Like

  27. Thanks for the thought provoking post and for the giveaway. Love your titles!

    I have found that when I am at the top of my writing game, my public speaking skills suffer. As the words come out of my mouth I am thinking “come back…I need to edit that sentence. There was a better way to say that.”

    It highlights that writing and public speaking are two entirely different skill sets. Both involve effective communication but are distinctly different.

    I help coordinate a lecture series in my home town. We have found that some extremely interesting people are not comfortable with public speaking. They do a fine job when we change the lecture format into more of a talk show format. We have the speaker give us questions beforehand and we ask the speaker the prepared questions. It’s a format that we have found to be very effective. So don’t hesitate to ask that book store manager to feature “A conversation with the author” and have someone ask you questions that you have provided. Look out at the audience and be sure to speak loudly enough for the people in the back of the room to hear. That format breaks the task into more manageable bits.

    Good luck!

    Like

    1. Thanks, Melinda. I do stack the deck by giving a couple of suggested questions to the manager to ask to get the ball rolling, since often people don’t like to be the first one to ask a question. But I like the idea of setting up a more prepared interview if the manager or librarian is amenable. And you’re right. As a writer I’m always wishing I could take the words that just came out of my mouth back and do a revision 🙂

      Like

  29. I was terrified when I did my first official author appearance–at my hometown public library, and I knew almost everyone there, which I think made it worse! Now, after doing it a lot, as well as giving workshops and being on panels, I am very comfortable. Honestly, it just takes practice. If you still feel very uncomfortable, you could try something like Toastmasters. Or practice your talk in front of a trusted friend. Congratulations on your new series!

    Like

    1. Thanks, Susannah! I keep having to remind myself I’m still really just a newbie. I’ll probably get better and more comfortable with practice. Probably.

      Like

  31. Hopefully endearing socially awkward in front of big crowds describes a lot of us… ha…at least we hope. Thank you for the contest…and the insight…
    Marilyn ewatvess@yahoo.com

    Like

  32. Enjoyed your post. You are a new to me author and the name of the book has caught my eye more than once. and I’d enjoy reading it. I’m amazed that so much is expected of authors these days. Writer, speaker , book signer, blogger along with a few other things.

    Like

    1. Thanks, Ruth! Authors wear many hats, it’s true. But I can’t complain — not that I let that stop me! It’s still a great gig!

      Like

  35. Vickie, thanks for being on the Wickeds today. Great topic! I am really comfortable speaking to groups when I am able to speak to them in a conversational, informal and chatty style. I never speak from behind a lectern or with a microphone if I can possibly help it.

    I like to pull up a chair close to the front row and I ask to rearrange the chairs so we are all sort of seated in a cluster. I let the audience know that I have kids and feel much more comfortable if people constantly interrupt me when I am trying to say something which gives everyone permission to be informal and very interactive. For me that approach has led to a lot of audience questions and allows me to speak on subjects that are of interest to that particular group, which it takes a lot of pressure off of me.

    Best of luck with your series and with your appearances!

    Like

    1. Thanks, Jessie! I think keeping it cozy and informal sounds like good advice. So far I haven’t ventured to rearrange how the seating is set up — but I might now!

      Like

  37. I think having a story to tell and being talented enough to be able to put it on paper is a lot harder than talking to any one. I can’t wait to read this book. Many thanks for the opportunity to win this great prize.

    Like

  39. From Lynn Barker Steinmayer, who says she was unable to post a comment. Sorry, Lynn!

    “I wear cool socks. I have a number of animal socks and some Star Trek ones. It is easy to be confidant when you are wearing Spock socks. Also drinking water (or coffee) from a Harry Potter Marauder’s Map cup helps too.”

    Like

  40. Loved your first book and looking forward to Book 2. I hate public speaking–it makes me so nervous! Luckily, I don’t have to do it much. Small groups are a little easier…but not much. Thanks for the chance to win a copy of the new book.

    Like

    1. Thanks, Christi! So nice to hear you enjoyed spending time with Liv and Di — good luck with the drawing!

      Like

  41. Thanks for the generous giveaway. I’m quite shy, and while I’m able to hide it up to a point, public speaking — no way!

    Like

    1. You’re welcome, Dianne! And I know what you mean. I like being able to hide from strangers behind my books and computer most of the time 🙂

      Like

  42. I overcame my fear of public speaking years ago fortunately. Although, any group over 20 people freaks me out a little. Thank you for an intro to your series. I need to play catch up! Thanks for a chance to win your cool prize package!

    Like

  43. The thing that has always made me more comfortable with public speaking is having something to stand behind, like a computer to lectern. For some reason not being completely physically exposed works for me. I admire people who are eloquent public speakers and make it look easy – because it’s not!

    Like

    1. I agree, I feel less exposed if I am standing behind something or holding something in my hand. I guess for some people it comes easily — I’m just not one of those people!

      Like

  44. Vickie, welcome to the blog! Loved this. Public speaking is something I’ve always struggled with. I’m much better on a panel or in a group of Wickeds.

    Like

    1. Thanks, Liz! Glad to know I’m not the only one who struggles with this! I have really enjoyed the couple of panels I’ve done so far — the other authors made me look good! And The Wickeds are a group of authors with a lot of collective shine!

      Like

  45. My only tip for the fear of public speaking is to have children. After taking my kids out in public I have lost my fear of public speaking because nothing is more embarrassing than having your child poop down your side in the middle of the grocery store. Plus once you have kids (especially if you are a stay at home parent) you will take any adult conversation time that you can get.

    Like

    1. Brittany, parenting is probably good training for facing any fear! I don’t have any kids — maybe I could borrow one 🙂

      Like

  46. Hi Vickie! My favorite public speaking tip: look at people’s foreheads when you are speaking. It makes it seem like you are looking around the room and making eye contact…but you don’t have to actually make eye contact. Seems to take a little of the anxiety out of it.

    Like

  47. Vickie, you are a new author to me and I’m looking forward to reading this series. I like that it involves a party planner and a murder mystery. Great giveaway for a great day of reading. Thanks for the chance.

    Like

  48. I have not read this series, but am definitely putting it on my tbr list. First I love books set in my home state. I like to see how we are portrayed, lol. Second I love humor in my cozies. I am sure you are plenty funny when you are in the mood. And for me it seems to be the mood that helps me in normally nervous situations. I am pretty calm though so that doesnt happen too often. Thanks for the chance to win this book.

    Like

    1. Thanks, Kay — always nice to hear from another Tennessee native! (I’m from Memphis, btw). I worked as a newspaper reporter in small Southern towns across west Tennessee, so I believe the characters are authentic. You can let me know what you think! Good luck with the giveaway!

      Like

      1. Thanks much. I have to say you are wonderful for replying to each and everyone of us here tonight. I have a very good friend in Millington. I am born and raised in Nashville. These days a rare thing, lol. You sure dont seem shy with the way you are chatting with each of us. I will definitely let you know what i think when i do read the books

        Like

    2. Kay, my mom lives in Millington– and working at the Millington newspaper was my first gig as a reporter! I look forward to hearing your thoughts. You can e-mail me through my web site. And friend me on Facebook if you haven’t already 🙂

      Like

      1. Will do that now. ON facebook i am Betty Tyler, lol. Sorry! i will check out your website as well. thanks and again thanks for your replies

        Like

  49. I’ve gotten used to speaking to groups of any size. But when I first started I was really nervous. If I had the advantage of a lectern (to hide behind) I always had a short pencil in one hand to keep me from flailing my arms. (A short pencil so it wouldn’t be too obvious to the audience.) Also, I made sure I was very prepared and, if possible, had a few notes on index cards so I didn’t have to worry about forgetting important facts. Mostly I had to reminding myself that people were there to me because I knew something they didn’t know but wanted to. So breathe and relax.

    Like

    1. Thanks, Ginny! It’s important to remind myself the audience is there voluntarily — that helps! And I try to breathe without wheezing 🙂

      Like

  50. A big thank-you to all The Wickeds — Sherry, Edith, Barb, Jessie, Liz, and Julie — for letting me hang out with you guys today. It’s been a pleasure, ladies!

    Like

Comments are closed.