World Building is one of the most enjoyable things authors get to do. For mystery authors (of the non-paranormal persuasion), this could be called Town Building, since we usually set our fictional worlds on earth, and the normal rules of physics apply.
My new series is set in the fictional mountain town of Arrow Springs (working name). It is loosely based on the lovely town of Idyllwild, California, with a touch of Julian and Lake Arrowhead thrown in. The first thing my fictional town needs is businesses, especially restaurants, shops, and stores where Whitley Leland and her grandmother Roberta (Bobbie) will spend much of their time interacting with locals. Here are a few of my ideas:
- Arrow Springs General Store (sells everything from propane to money orders). Owned/run by Joe since the 70s with help from nephew Scooter.
- Mystical Books and Treasures, run by sisters Lily and Rose. Crystals, incense, etc. Psychic readings available.
- Apothecary
- Yarn and Craft Cottage
- Gypsy’s Dress Shop, accessories and ?
- Arrow Springs Outfitters (hiking clothes and equipment)
- Used bookstore run by a hoarder – probably has the book you want if he can find it!
- Arrow Springs Garage
- Art Gallery
- City hall/Community center/community theater
- Stained glass shop/studio (or perhaps a craft guild?)
- Diner (Maybe Kookie’s Kitchen? Golden Biscuit? Dinah’s Diner?)
- Coffee House (Mountain Brew? Brew Ha Ha? Grounds & Hounds–which might be a coffee house/pet shop lol?)
- AbacadaBra Lingerie (their support wear is magical!)
- Tea shop (Tempest and the Teapot?)
- Florist (Back to the Fuchsia?)
- Grocery Store–perhaps organic or co-op
- Summer gymnastics day camp
- Hardware store?
- “Fine dining” restaurant (or at least by local’s standards!
- Laundry/dry cleaner/alterations/etc.
- Not a business, but perhaps a church (runs thrift shop, meals on wheels, community events)
What is my little mountain town missing? I’d love to hear your ideas or suggestions!
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