Inside the World of Mystery Writers: Getting to Know Tucson Sisters in Crime
Whether you are an aspiring author trying to plot your first murder, a seasoned reader looking for your next page-turner, or simply someone who loves creative storytelling, the world of mystery writing is richer when shared. On a special "Getting to Know You" episode of Big Blend Radio’s Toast to The Arts Podcast, we sat down with three leaders from the board of Tucson Sisters in Crime: President Lyn Worthen, Vice President Eva Eldridge, and Treasurer Elaine A. Powers.
Together, they pulled back the curtain on what makes their chapter so unique, how mystery writers support one another, and why community is the ultimate key to navigating today's publishing world.
Watch the Big Blend Radio “Getting to Know You” Podcast Episode with Eva Eldridge, Lyn Worthen, and Elaine A. Powers below, or listen/download the episode on Podbean.
A Welcoming, Borderless Writing Community
One of the biggest misconceptions about regional writing groups is that you have to live in the city to belong. While rooted in Arizona, the Tucson chapter of Sisters in Crime is truly borderless. Meeting virtually on the third Saturday of every month (1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Mountain Standard Time), the group draws authors, editors, and publishing professionals from across the country.
Every monthly session balances three core pillars essential for modern writers:
The Craft of Crime: Deep dives into technical details like forensics, toxicology, firearms, and cadavers.
Writing Mechanics: Refining dialogue, mastering point-of-view, and avoiding the dreaded "mushy middle" of a story.
The Business of Publishing: Navigating everything from independent self-publishing and cover design to platform marketing and social media.
Beyond the formal presentations, members gather 30 minutes before each meeting for a casual virtual social hour—a chance to talk shop, troubleshoot writing snags, or just catch up on life.
Meet the Board: Diverse Paths to Storytelling
What makes Tucson Sisters in Crime so dynamic is the varied background of its board members:
Lyn Worthen (President): Managing Editor at Camden Park Press and author under the pen name Lauryn Christopher (creator of the Hit Lady for Hire series). Lyn brings a publisher's eye to the group, advocating for multi-author anthologies as a powerful way for writers to cross-promote and share audiences.
Eva Eldridge (Vice President): Operating through 3 Sides 2 Author Services, Eva guides new authors through manuscript preparation, coaching, and independent publishing. She also serves as a driving force behind the chapter’s popular local anthologies.
Elaine A. Powers (Treasurer): Known for her science-based children’s books and passion for nature, Elaine proves that good storytelling rules apply everywhere—whether you're writing picture books about iguanas or crafting short mystery stories.
Trouble in Tucson: Anthologies & Local Outreaches
For members looking to get published, the chapter offers hands-on opportunities. The group has released two short story collections—Trouble in Tucson and More Trouble in Tucson—featuring tales of murder, mischief, and mayhem set in recognizable local landmarks.
The chapter also brings its authors directly to readers at major events like the Tucson Festival of Books, one of the largest literary gatherings in the country, giving indie and traditionally published writers a shared platform to showcase their work.
Behind the Scenes: Rapid-Fire Fun
To wrap up the conversation, our guests took on a series of rapid-fire questions, revealing a few surprising details about their creative lives outside the writing room:
Spirit Animals: Elaine channelled the Iguana, Eva picked the swift Pronghorn Antelope, and Lyn chose the Tiger.
Off-the-Clock Passions: When they aren't typing, Lyn loves crafting fictional worlds, Elaine connects with non-human animals (including her horses and tortoises), and Eva finds balance getting her hands dirty in her desert garden.
Words of Wisdom: Eva advises, "You can complain, but at some point, get up and do something about it." Lyn encourages writers to "Always be open to learning new things," while Elaine reminds us, "Don't be afraid to try something strange and bizarre—enjoy the ride!"
Media House Dream Wishlist: If they had a room in the new Big Blend Media House, Lyn requested a secret wardrobe passage to an imaginative world, Elaine asked for an indoor glass-enclosed pool to watch monsoon storms safely, and Eva wanted a cozy fabric recliner with a good reading lamp.
Explore & Connect
Ready to dive deeper into the world of Tucson Sisters in Crime, grab a copy of their anthologies, or connect with our guests? Check out the links below:
Tucson Sisters in Crime: tucsonsistersincrime.org
Trouble in Tucson Anthology: Get it on Amazon
More Trouble in Tucson Anthology: Get it on Amazon
Lyn Worthen / Camden Park Press: camdenparkpress.com
Eva Eldridge / 3 Sides 2 Author Services: 3sides2authorservices.com
Elaine A. Powers: elaineapowers.com