I'm a member of the Short Mystery Fiction Society, an informal association of writers, publishers, and fans that has kept mystery & crime short stories in the public eye since 1996. The SMFS's 2020 Derringer Awards voting ends April 29 and winners will be announced in May. In the meantime, I've invited the finalists for interviews.
2019 recipient of the Edward D. Hoch Memorial Golden Derringer for Lifetime Achievement Doug Allyn's "The Dutchy", from the November/December 2019 issue of Ellery Queen's Mystery Magazine, is up for Best Novelette.
Describe your story in up to 20 words.
"The Dutchy" is a 'tale my grandmother told me', of the family's troubles during the Civil War, based on actual incidents.
What were the most difficult and most enjoyable parts of writing the story?
The toughest aspect of it was to accurately portray family members I only know through stories. Conversely, that was also the most fun.
Do you have a juicy story about how "The Dutchy" came to be published?
No great story here, Janet Hutchings at Ellery Queen has a very open mind when it comes to storytellers. Working with her has been a pure pleasure.
How does it feel to be a Derringer finalist?
Gotta tell ya, pal, with all the other stuff that's recently come down the pike, I got a double dose of elation when Janet passed on the news. I'm both humbled and grateful to be considered. I love this work and this crazy business, and the Derringer Awards are one of the reasons why.
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| Doug Allyn |
Describe your story in up to 20 words.
"The Dutchy" is a 'tale my grandmother told me', of the family's troubles during the Civil War, based on actual incidents.
What were the most difficult and most enjoyable parts of writing the story?
The toughest aspect of it was to accurately portray family members I only know through stories. Conversely, that was also the most fun.
Do you have a juicy story about how "The Dutchy" came to be published?
No great story here, Janet Hutchings at Ellery Queen has a very open mind when it comes to storytellers. Working with her has been a pure pleasure.
How does it feel to be a Derringer finalist?
Gotta tell ya, pal, with all the other stuff that's recently come down the pike, I got a double dose of elation when Janet passed on the news. I'm both humbled and grateful to be considered. I love this work and this crazy business, and the Derringer Awards are one of the reasons why.
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