The Next Big Thing blog hop

THE NEXT BIG THING BLOG HOP
Welcome to this blog hop.
What is a blog hop? Basically, it’s a way that readers can discover new authors, because with bookstores closing and publishers not promoting new authors as much, we need to find a way to introduce readers to authors they may not see in their local bookstore.

Here you have the chance to find many new authors. Here you’ll find information about Amy Shojai and her dog-centric thriller novel, LOST AND FOUND, which NY Times bestselling author James Rollins calls, “Riveting, heart-wrenching, brilliant, the debut of a stunning talent.” Also see links below to five other authors you might like to check out.
I’d like to thank fellow author Amy Shojai for tagging me to participate. Click the links below to find out about Amy Shojai’s book.
Website: http://www.cleasimon.com
Buy LOST AND FOUND:
Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/atfb732
B&N: http://tinyurl.com/a9luhwm

In this particular hop, I and my fellow authors, in their respective blogs, have answered 10 questions where you get to learn about our current work in progress as well as some insights into our process, from characters and inspirations to plotting and cover decisions. I hope you enjoy it!
Please feel free to comment and share your thoughts and questions. Here is my Next Big Thing!
1: What is the working title of your book?
A Spot of Death: A Pru Marlowe pet noir
2: Where did the idea come from for the book?
I've been collecting news stories about wild animals that are kept, inappropriately, as pets for a while now...
3: What genre does your book come under?
Amateur sleuth - sort of a not-too-cozy cozy
4: Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?
Pru is a dark-haired bad girl. I'd love to have Claire Danes play her, with a dye job. Wallis the tabby would have to be portrayed by a very strong-willed tabby.
5: What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?
When a newcomer is mysteriously mauled, murder-by-beast is suspected.
6: Is your book self-published, published by an independent publisher, or represented by an agency?
I am represented by Colleen Mohyde of the Doe Coover Agency, and this book is being written under contract for Poisoned Pen Press.
7: How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript?
I'll let you know when I'm done.

8: What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?
Well, it is in the spirit of Dogs Don't Lie, Cats Can't Shoot, and this spring's upcoming Parrots Prove Deadly, the earlier books in this series.
9: Who or what inspired you to write this book?
I am having such fun with these characters, I want to keep going.
10: What else about your book might pique the reader’s interest?
Pru and Wallis have a prickly, but very real relationship that any cat-person will recognize, and anyone who has read about - or wondered about - keeping a wild animal as a pet should be intrigued by the possible complications.

Below you will find authors who will be joining me by blog, next Wednesday. Do be sure to bookmark and add them to your calendars for updates on WIPs and New Releases! Happy Writing and Reading!

Tina Whittle: http://tinawhittle.blogspot.com
Bernadette Pajer: http://bernadettepajer.com
Dusty Rainbolt: www.dustycatwriter.com
Sheila Bonham: www.sheilaboneham.com