Someone to watch over me! - Guest Post!
- J.H. Jones
- Oct 2
- 3 min read
It is my privilege to present the guest post of Mary Seifert, author of the Katie and Maverick Cozy Mysteries. I met Mary through Sisters in Crime and, with two other talented authors, formed a writing group where we exchange works in progress. She is generous to a fault with my manuscripts, encouraging me to write the best possible version of my story. And as I read her work, I see her kindness and wisdom reflected in the lovable characters that fill her warm and charming mysteries. It's no wonder her books have won numerous awards! You can follow her on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and TikTok.
In my head, "Someone to watch over me" is the melody I hear as I write every day, knowing my last line of defense before my novel heads to my editor will be my strongest and most critical—a small but mighty group of individuals who want to assist in the story-telling process.
In my latest cozy mystery, Airplane, Atlanta & an Assassin, launched on July 10, 2025, I was assisted by a group of great readers. But it’s not just any group. In my coalition, I have beta readers, some I know and some I do not, and a wonderful critique group, and each of them supports my writing journey differently.
My beta readers give an instinctual, innate feeling or overall reaction that comes from a deep, emotional connection using common sense rather than analytical reasoning. Each reader has his or her own strengths, and they draw from their jobs, hobbies, likes, dislikes, other books, and life experiences. Some know grammar like the backs of their hands. Some know history, sports, music, or are experts in other specialty fields. A few of the more daring travel with me, pointing out highlights (and lowlights), while others, who have trekked the same paths, bring a novel viewpoint. Those readers have each given me their valuable take away after reading my story. They have been so very helpful in smoothing rough edges, pointing out inconsistencies, finding inaccuracies, and indicating where a story drags or if it is in sensory overload.
In addition, feedback from fellow authors and writers who critique the exact same words can go beyond the gut level feelings. The perspective from someone else who experiences the angst of the Imposter Syndrome can take aim at possible alternate paths, different choices, and perhaps deliver more concise honing of a premise. They provide honest and sometimes difficult to swallow opinions, asking, “Is this what you really meant to write?” The same critique group makes me question my intent and solidify my argument for using a specific character, plot point, dialogue, theme, or word, and the exchange strengthens the story line.
The same comment received from individual readers can have an entirely alternate meaning, so every comment is taken within the context of the giver and is worth its weight in gold. For example, when an old friend says, “I really like your book,” it is a wonderfully kind, loving, compassionate compliment with so much up lifting support and warmth, but sometimes, when someone you don’t know says, “I really like your book,” it carries a different gravitas, a bit like Sally Fields being recognized with an Oscar saying, “… but this time I feel it, and I can’t deny the fact that you like me.”
Mary Seifert is the IMPACT award-winning author of the Katie and Maverick Cozy Mysteries, must-reads for cozy fans with curious minds and a love for uncovering the truth. When she's not penning her next mystery, you’ll find her with a book in one hand, a glass of wine in the other, and a bite of chocolate never too far away. She enjoys walking her energetic dog and humorously claims to delete all references to crime from her browser history while awaiting a scrumptious dinner prepared by her live-in husband-chef, John. Connect with her at Mary Seifert Author.
Her latest book, Airplanes, Atlanta & an Assassin, is available here:
Warm and wonderful post, Mary (and Judith). Best of Luck, Mary, with AIRPLANES, ATLANTA & an ASSASSIN!