New Novel by Janet Evanovich Set in Marblehead

The latest novel by bestselling author Janet Evanovich, titled "Wicked Appetite," and set in Salem and Marblehead, hit bookstores Tuesday. 

Evanovich's books, including the 20 titles in the "Stephanie Plum" mystery series, have sold more than 75 million copies worldwide. "Wicked Appetite" is the first book in the "Unmentionable Series."

In her latest effort, the narrator is a woman named Lizzy Tucker, a chef from New York City who moves to Marblehead after her aunt dies and leaves her a house.

Lizzy goes to work at a Salem bakery, when she stumbles into a mystery involving  ancient artifacts called the Seven Stones of Power, one for each of the seven deadly sins. Two strange men appear in her life who are seeking the stones, and looking for her.

Evanovich, who lives in New Hampshire and is launching her book tour next week, answered some questions from Marblehead Patch:

Marblehead Patch: How did you choose the setting and theme of your novel "Wicked Appetite?"

Janet Evanovich: The theme came first ... a wicked quest that involved the seven deadly sins. I chose Salem and Marblehead as the setting because I thought the history of the two towns would add a fun element. My daughter has a historic house in Marblehead, so I actually spend a lot of time in the area.

MP: Many writers have documented the Salem witch trials and other spooky tales about Salem. What's unique about your story and how you tell it?

JE: In my book, there are some unique characters who have special powers -- some use them for good; others, well, for not-so-good.  The fact that the Salem area has that spooky past seemed to make this setting perfect for the books.

MP: In your experience, does writing about a place have to be completely accurate, or can you fudge the facts a little bit to fit your story?

JE: I use the general setting, but seldom do I get too specific.  For instance, I don't want curious readers knocking on the door of 123 Main St., asking to see the basement from a scene in one of my books.

MP: What's the place or thing you love best about Salem?

JE: My favorite place in Salem is Ye Olde Pepper Companie, America's Oldest Candy Co.

MP: And the thing you love most about Marblehead?

JE: The beer and wings at Jack Tar.