Choosing a Setting

​As you know, it’s easier to place our characters in a setting we know personally when it fits our story’s time and place. Since Bailey’s Law was my first novel, I wanted a familiar setting and small town police department. I didn’t want my characters or myself to get lost in the shuffle of a large department with more bureaucracy and other rules to deal with.

I’ve lived in Houston for many years, but wanted a smaller area for my story. I chose Richmond, about 30 miles from downtown Houston, because the town is well established with sites on the historical registry. Its iconic police station is a landmark near the old town area, complete with nostalgic storefronts and streets with vertical parking.

Several of my friends live in the area, which made research enjoyable, particularly dining at the Lone Star Saloon and Clancy’s Pub. In fact, our book club has patronized both places for lunch after our meetings.

​Jack Bailey hangs out at the Lone Star after a hard day’s work, and runs into Denise Williams one evening. They end up sharing dinner and she confides in Jack regarding a past close call on the job.
At times Jack yearns for the pulse and vibe of a big city, and wonders if he should move back to Chicago. Only problems is, the ghosts of his past still linger there, so for the time being, he’ll stay hidden in Richmond.

Read Bailey's Law Now.

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