Whether you’re planning some late-summer armchair travel or searching for a compelling book to tuck into your carry-on, here are several standout recommendations. Three experienced mystery authors explain why setting and location matter to them, and how place can shape plot, character and mood.
Ang Pompano is an Agatha Award–nominated author of the Blue Palmetto Detective Agency series and the Reluctant Food Columnist series from Level Best Books. He co-founded Crime Spell Books and co-edits the annual anthology Best New England Crime Stories.
© Angelo J. Pompano
“Location is essential to my work because it influences plot, character arcs and the overall atmosphere. I think of setting as another character, one that offers distinct opportunities and constraints. For example, in When It’s Time for Leaving, Savannah’s faded grandeur and sultry streets complement the mystery and deepen the characters’ experiences. An alligator confrontation fits naturally in the Okefenokee Swamp, but it would feel out of place in Connecticut.
Likewise, Diet of Death uses Westport, the Hamptons and New York City to shape culinary intrigue and suspense. A showdown on a rooftop water tank works in New York City’s skyline but not in Savannah. By choosing locations that resonate with the story, I strive to immerse readers so the setting becomes a vital part of their experience.”
Pompano’s travel wisdom:
“I make travel enjoyable by embracing the journey as much as the destination. I keep a loose plan and leave room for spontaneity so I can discover the local culture and hidden gems not listed in guidebooks. Whether wandering historic streets in London or Paris, savoring pastries at a café on the Amalfi Coast, or watching the sun sink over Napa’s vineyards, I try to stay present and soak it all in. I’m also always scouting for material for a book, which adds an extra layer of excitement to every trip.”
Kate Lansing is the author of the award-winning Colorado Wine Mystery series. When she’s not traveling, she lives in Broomfield, Colorado, with her husband, daughter and two mischievous cats.
© Kate Lansing
“My Colorado Wine Mystery series is based in Boulder, Colorado, a place I love. It’s where I had my first apartment, met my husband and got married, and the town’s character naturally enriches the stories. From the Flatirons and surrounding mountain views to Pearl Street’s lively restaurants and shops, and the ivy-clad university campus, Boulder offers visual backdrops and seasonal shifts that elevate scenes. There’s also a growing wine industry drawing grapes from the Western Slope, which provides authentic context for the series.”
Lansing’s favorite travel tip:
“Plan for downtime. When exploring a new place it’s tempting to pack in every excursion, museum and landmark, but slowing down is what helps me appreciate a destination. Strolling through a park, lingering at a café with a book, taking a child to a neighborhood playground or having a leisurely picnic after a bakery stop—those quiet moments become the memories I cherish.”
Andrew Nance writes mystery, thrillers and horror for teens. He lives in St. Augustine, Florida, where he performs on stage, plays on the beach and makes music with friends.
© Andrew Nance
“Green Canvas, part of my Lise Norwood Mystery series, takes place in the small fictional Florida city of San Marco. I often create imaginary towns inspired by real places. San Marco draws from St. Augustine and sits conceptually between St. Augustine and Daytona. Building a fictional locale lets me craft a history and geography that fit the story. For example, while St. Augustine traces back to Spanish settlement in 1565, I set San Marco’s origins at 1763, when British control began. That freedom lets me add or alter elements as needed—right down to creating a map of the town for continuity across books.”
Nance’s travel tip:
“My wife and I try to move beyond tourist attractions by asking locals where to eat, what entertainment to choose and which spots visitors usually miss. That approach paid off on our last trip to Italy, where we found memorable meals and unexpected experiences.”