The research I did in the late nineteenth century in Melbourne gave me pieces that allowed me to build the story around some actual events and locations.
Michael G. Colburn – 16 December 2025
The Back Flap
In the gaslit streets of 1890s Melbourne, Lady Edith “Edie” Black has reinvented herself. Once a notorious London thief, she now poses as a widowed aristocrat while secretly establishing herself as a private investigator. When Parliament’s ceremonial mace disappears during a night of debauchery involving high-ranking officials, Edie is hired to recover it discreetly. Meanwhile, Edie’s friend, a novice nun assigned to the infamous Kew Asylum, witnesses disturbing disappearances among the patients. When the nun is framed for murder, Edie must infiltrate the asylum and find the true murderer to save her.
About the book
What is the book about?
Asylum Murders is the second book in the Lady Black Series. Lady Black is investigating the disappearance of the ceremonial Parliamentary Mace and unveils a night of debauchery in the Little Lon red-light district of Melbourne. On the night of the orgy, a prostitute is assaulted and left for dead. She is admitted to the Kew Asylum after a medical examination. Lady Black’s childhood friend Britina, a novice nun at the asylum, uncovers secrets, is accused of a mercy killing and is committed. All events coalesce into a thrilling climax.
When did you start writing the book?
In 2024, while I was still writing Stolen Brilliance (Book one)
How long did it take you to write it?
About a year.
Where did you get the idea from?
The first book in the series left Lady Edie Black in Melbourne, AU. The research I did in the late nineteenth century in Melbourne gave me pieces that allowed me to build the story around some actual events and locations.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
I didn’t struggle with this book; it seemed to flow onto the paper easily.
What came easily?
Most of the characters had already been introduced to the readers, and I had interesting events, so linking it all together came easily.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real-world people you know?
I didn’t physically know anyone, obviously, but I have a mix of fictional characters and some who actually lived and carry over into this second book.
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
I have a long list of authors who I enjoy reading and all influence me (I think). In particular, I think Jacqueline Winspear’s Maisie Dobbs, who in ways influenced Lady Black’s back story. I try to have a couple of scenes with humor, probably an influence of enjoying Alan Bradley’s writing. I enjoy including real events probably an influence of Eric Larson.
Do you have a target reader?
Victorian Mystery fans.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
I try to write some every day. Some days for eight hours and some for one. It isn’t always possible but I think it helps to keep the words flowing. When I can’t get to my computer I try to think through one scene while doing something else.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
I don’t outline. Occasionally during writing, I will draw boxes representing events or characters and actions and connect them with lines to guide me.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
I do both.
Did you hire a professional editor?
Yes, I hired a professional editor; it is extremely important for me.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
I don’t; it doesn’t help me think.
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
Early on in book one, I submitted queries to perhaps six agents. Most didn’t have any interest in a new writer. I felt the process would be way too slow.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
It was a quick decision. I did a fair amount of research on the growth in popularity of self-publishing, and the statistics (such as K-Lytics) pointed to a growing success of the approach.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
Professional designer
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
I am using a professional marketing firm
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Just keep going. The process is very self-satisfying.
About You
Where did you grow up?
Vermont
Where do you live now?
Vermont
What would you like readers to know about you?
I had a business career in design and inventing products and have written books on inventing and succeeding in business. My business is now run by my son-in-law. I’m retired and writing gives me a reason to work every day (which I need).
What are you working on now?
Book Three The Fate of Precious Things
End of Interview:
Get your copy of Asylum Murders from Amazon US or Amazon UK.
