Latest Books The Immortal Detective by D. B. Woodling

Equipped with supernatural powers, Detective Celeste Crenshaw questions her ability to placate her ancient mentors and assist victims of crime while denying her vampiric urges. Juggling an immortal lover , a caseload of unsolved homicides, and her new role as mother to a perpetually five-year-old undead child, she wonders if things can possibly get more hectic. When tragedy strikes close to home, she has her answer.

D. B. Woodling recently spent some time with The Big Thrill discussing her latest thriller, THE IMMORTAL DETECTIVE.

Which took shape first: plot, character, or setting?

The setting. The beginning of the book takes place in the “Hollow Earth,” the mysterious land beyond the poles , which Admiral Richard Byrd claimed he discovered.

What attracts you to this book’s genre?

The complexity in both the character dynamics and the incomparable worldbuilding.

What was the biggest challenge this book presented? What about the biggest opportunity?

Biggest challenge: Making the circumstances more believable, which required a working knowledge of telepathy, telekinesis, psychokinesis, and quantum physics.

Biggest opportunity: Because of the subject matter (immortality), and having suffered a tremendous personal loss prior to the final edit, I found the writing process cathartic. I hope the underlying message brings comfort to those readers struggling with paralyzing grief.

D. B. Woodling

Was there anything new you discovered, or surprised you, as you wrote this book?

Sometimes less is more.

No spoilers, but what can you tell us about your book that we won’t find in the jacket copy or the PR material?

I think the inclusion of several comedic situations will surprise (and hopefully entertain) the readers. The novel is a dark fantasy, but it’s underlying message is courage and hope.

What authors or books have influenced your career as a writer, and why?

Steinbeck’s “Of Mice and Men” and “East of Eden” were paramount as they relate to character development. Also, Arthur Miller’s play, “Death of a Salesman” resonated with me for that same reason. I’ve always felt that the characters can make or break the book.

As it relates to mystery and suspense, I draw inspiration from Karin Slaughter and Stephen King.

Is THE IMMORTAL DETECTIVE strictly a paranormal novel?

No. I’ve also included elements from all of my favorite genres (historical fiction, mystery, and suspense) into the book.

Once the allure of impersonating celebrities began to wane, D. B. Woodling left the stage and turned her attention to writing. Credited with two historical fiction novels, she then switched genres and wrote The Detective Mike Malone series.

Needing a home for an ominous opening line, The Immortal Twin, a paranormal novel, soon began to take shape. Three-winged dragons, undead historical mentors, and police investigations abound in The Immortal Detective, the second installment in Celeste’s journey, with plenty of chilling twists and turns.

When she’s not creating harrowing fight scenes, steamy encounters, or complex police investigations, Woodling calms her soul with scenic walks, often in the company of a clowder of cats or a know-it-all golden retriever.

To learn more about the author and her work, please visit her website.