This is Ink & Intrigue—the blog where romance ignites, secrets simmer, and every love story hides a twist. I’m your blog host, Sheila Kell, romance author and lover of plot twists, slow burns, and morally questionable book boyfriends.

Today, I’m thrilled to answer another one of your burning questions—How do I choose settings for my books?

My answer is pretty straightforward: it revolves around the places I’ve lived or visited, mostly. The inspiration for my first series came during my time in Baltimore, Maryland, a city that I called home before I began writing the first book. I envisioned a setting that felt vibrant and dynamic, where the characters could blend in effortlessly. Baltimore, with its rich culture and lively atmosphere, was the perfect choice. It allowed the men in my story to navigate their surroundings without feeling out of place, adding depth to their experiences. Don’t even ask me how Montana found its way into one of the books. Honestly, I have no clue where that idea popped up from, but there it was.

In the Agents of HIS series, the original plan was for the characters to be based in Baltimore, MD. However, I’ve decided to shake things up by bringing a few of them to my own backyard in the dazzling landscapes of Mississippi and Louisiana. This twist not only adds variety to their stories but also brings a rich cultural backdrop that I’ve explored since I was a child.

For my Coastal Investigation series, I decided to create a fictional town nestled between the places I fondly call home. This unique setting allows me to blend my memories with imagination, crafting a charming backdrop for the mysteries and adventures that unfold.

For my upcoming single-title book with The Wild Rose Press, I’m embarking on an exciting journey to New Zealand—a place I’ve never had the chance to visit. This decision is not just about setting; it’s a heartfelt tribute to my incredible alpha reader, who has been my steadfast supporter through every twist and turn of my writing journey. Since New Zealand is her home, I can’t think of a better way to honor her than by bringing a story to life in that stunning country.

I’m excited to dive into a new series, and what better place to find inspiration than my own backyard in Central Florida? My journey through various parts of Florida, fueled by my military service and my time at the university, has filled my mind with a treasure trove of ideas. I can already envision an amazing backdrop that will breathe life into my stories, making them come alive with the spirited essence of this beautiful state.

I hope this answers your question. To be honest, I find it much easier to write about familiar places than to invent entirely new worlds. There’s something magical about resurrecting my memories on the page—it makes the writing process feel alive. It’s like taking a stroll down memory lane and sharing the beauty I’ve experienced with others.

I hope you’ve loved this week’s topic. Join me on Saturday for a one-of-a-kind interview with one of Elise Gedicke’s characters. 💖

Until next time—keep reading, keep swooning! ✨📚