Online for Authors Episode 10-28-25

​Rookie Cop, Cold Case: Secrets Linger in the Catskills with Author RL Carpentier III

​Hello, book enthusiasts! Today, I want to share a captivating conversation I had recently on the Online for Authors podcast with R.L. Carpentier III, a mystery and crime procedural author. We delved into his intriguing novel, "Our Lady of the Overlook," and explored the inspirations and themes behind it.

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Introducing R.L. Carpentier III

R.L. Carpentier, or Rodney, the man behind the gripping small-town mystery "Our Lady of the Overlook," shared with us his journey from law enforcement to writing. His unique blend of experiences has allowed him to create vivid, exciting narratives that capture the essence of mystery wrapped in seclusion.

The Elevator Pitch

Before we embarked on a deep dive into the story, Rodney gave us the quick elevator pitch: a small-town crime procedural offering all the complexities of a big-city mystery but set against a more intimate backdrop—where mystery and solitude add layers to the narrative.

From Law Enforcement to Writing

Rodney's career choice stemmed from a longstanding aspiration to write, meshed seamlessly with a two-decade tenure in law enforcement. Using his real-life experiences, Rodney brings authentic characters and situations to his book while juicing it with a hint of thrilling fiction to maintain readers' engagement.

Mike Ellis: A Character with Depth

The protagonist, Mike Ellis, embodies attributes of all rookie cops, including himself. Rodney deftly articulates the generational shift experienced by Mike, exemplified by the shadow of his boomer cop father. Mike's journey through the trilogy, clipping his father's expectations and carving his path, stirs relatable emotions.

The Trilogy Unfolds

Our Lady adventure doesn't stop with the first book! Rodney thoughtfully structured his work as a trilogy. The second installment, "Quiet Whispers of the Overlook," propels the reader further as familiar conclusions are challenged, and Mike is faced with new trials post-law enforcement. Rodney delights in throwing unexpected twists, all deliberately mapped as part of the story's progression.

Character Inspirations and Writing Style

Rodney draws heavily from the people he's known, crafting composite characters with genuine arcs. Hugh Bell and Roscoe embody the virtues and quirks of Rodney's past experiences, tethering every character's body and soul to tangible roots. With a strategic mix of plotting and 'pantsing,' Rodney navigates his storytelling, ensuring every scene is a natural extension of the one preceding it.

Future Plans and Projects

The conversation opened a window into Rodney's creative reservoir, revealing numerous ideas for future projects beyond the trilogy. He envisions a novella, more crime tales, as well as a potential nonfiction book centered on a significant local historical event. Rodney’s willingness to expand his Catskills universe with new characters and stories promises fans exciting reads ahead!

I hope this inside scoop into Rodney's literary world has piqued your interest. "Our Lady of the Overlook" awaits to sweep you into its mysteries, joined by its compelling sequel, and more on the horizon. Dive into this series and embrace the thrill of the hunt alongside characters inspired by life's intricacies, served with a slice of Catskills charm.

And remember,  Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook offers not only hearty discussions but also a chance to win a digital copy of "Our Lady of the Overlook". Share what you've enjoyed or found interesting about our podcast chat, and you might just score your next great read.

Happy reading, and thank you for joining me today in exploring the captivating prose of R.L. Carpentier III!

Purchase Our Lady of the Overlook on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4lW3uBe
Ebook: https://amzn.to/4mePSA


*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.