Citywide Bytes-That time I lived in Edgar Allen Poe’s basement

Author and storyteller Matthew Mercier has a certain claim to fame—he once lived in the Bronx home of Edgar Allen Poe. In fact, the experience was so life-changing, he made it the subject of his recently-released book. “Poe and I,” out through Crystal Lake Entertainment. Here’s a look at what’s in store:

Jonah Peabody takes a job as caretaker and head docent for a historical house in The Bronx that once served as the last home for Edgar Allan Poe, a job that requires him to live on the premises so he can give tours on the weekend. To be more precise, he must live in the basement of Poe’s home—Poe’s Basement.

This is Matthew’s first book and in this episode, we talk about the writing process and what of his own experiences made it into the story. We talk about his protagonist, Jonah Peabody and how he and Matthew relate. He also shares some memorable times living in the home of one of the legends of the horror genre.

A bit of the city and the country in this novel double-header

Interested in a gripping murder mystery with all kinds of cool twists? How about a story of a family home with a web of secrets? Either way, this episode has you covered!

Up first is Priscilla Paton to talk about her new book, “When the House Burns,” third in the Twin Cities Mystery series. A murder case with a commentary on the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on housing, this book brings us back to Detectives Erik Jansson and Deb Metzger as they search for the killer of an adulterous real estate agent. Priscilla and I look at where the series is now and why she decided to set amidst the backdrop of current events. We also talk about the detectives, their relationship and how its evolved throughout the series.

Following this is Julia Brewer Daily for her new book, “The Fifth Daughter of Thorn Ranch.” The story focuses on Emma Rosales, heiress of the largest ranch in Texas—The Thorn. Running the ranch is something Emma could handle with her eyes closed…if The Thorn were any ordinary property. Julia and I look at the real-life inspiration among the ranches of Texas, how her upbringing leant itself to the writing process and the secret of The Thorn.