Mark Pryor discusses The Most Mysterious Bookshop in Paris
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Mark Pryor joins the Poisoned Pen Podcast to discuss the reboot of his Hugo Marston series, introducing the latest installment, 'The Most Mysterious Bookshop in Paris.' Pryor reflects on his journey from prosecutor to defense attorney and bestselling author, sharing how the departure from his original publisher led to a creative reboot: Hugo Marston, once a U.S. Embassy security chief in Paris, now opens a bookstore—a role that blends his love of books with sleuthing. The episode delves into the rich historical and cultural tapestry of Paris, particularly the Marais district, which inspired the bookshop’s setting. Pryor reveals the meticulous research behind the chocolate industry, the significance of the Royal Warrant, and the layered history of the former convent that houses the bookshop. He also discusses the challenges of publishing, the importance of having a champion like Barbara Peters, and the evolving landscape of independent publishing. The conversation touches on themes of identity, with Pryor proudly including non-binary characters and LGBTQ+ representation, even in international markets with restrictive laws. The episode ends on a hopeful note about the future of the series and the enduring power of books and community.
Hugo Marston's transition from diplomat to bookstore owner allows for a fresh take on the series while preserving his core sleuthing instincts.
The Marais district in Paris was chosen for its authenticity and hidden charm, discovered through personal travel and serendipity.
Research into artisanal chocolate-making, including a visit to an Austin chocolatier, enriched the plot and setting of 'The Most Mysterious Bookshop in Paris.'
Publishing challenges, including rights issues and corporate consolidation, led Pryor to find a better fit with Kensington Books, a publisher aligned with his historical fiction style.
Pryor emphasizes the importance of having a literary champion—like Barbara Peters—who supports debut authors and fosters long-term relationships in the book world.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Welcome to the Poisoned Pen & Hugo Marston’s Return
Barbara Peters welcomes listeners to the Poisoned Pen Podcast, introduces the guest Mark Pryor, and sets the stage for the discussion of the new Hugo Marston series. She highlights Pryor’s journey from prosecutor to author and his deep connection to Paris.
The Reboot: From Diplomat to Bookseller
“I said, okay well that's not a problem. So I thought why don't I just make him a private investigator. And she said, well that's kind of been done. That's not super original.”
The Mysterious Bookshop & the Marais District
“I don't think I heard a single English person speak. And it was one of those, and this happens to us almost every time we go there. We stay somewhere new, and we walk around, and we look at each other and say, how have we not been here?”
Research & Realism: The Chocolate Industry
“I contacted, there's an artisan chocolatier in Austin. And so I emailed them and said, you know, it's kind of explained. what I was doing and they said come on down.”
History, Identity, and the Power of Setting
“My kiddo literally said, take their fucking money. Well, and then my kiddo was called Blake, I think I've said, and then said, but you should give some of it to an LGBTQ organization.”
“My kiddo literally said, take their fucking money. Well, and then my kiddo was called Blake, I think I've said, and then said, but you should give some of it to an LGBTQ organization.”
“I don't think I heard a single English person speak. And it was one of those, and this happens to us almost every time we go there. We stay somewhere new, and we walk around, and we look at each other and say, how have we not been here?”
“I have some bookshops now who asked me to come do things who didn't want me to begin with. I come back to arts and commerce. The interesting thing about the poison pen is that I am the unsalaried owner of the bookstore.”
Host
Guest
Mark Pryor
person
Paris
place
Barbara Peters
person
Hugo Marston
person
The Poisoned Pen
organization
Kensington Books
organization
Marais
place
Henri Lefort
person
Eclat du Chocolat
organization
Montmartre
place
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