FROM STORY IDEA TO PUBLICATION by Kathryn Long
Many times, I'm asked where I get my ideas to write a story. Well, for Buried in Sin the inspiration was almost entirely personal. Sixty-some years of memories visiting the tiny corner of northwest Pennsylvania near the Kinzua Reservoir in the heart of the Allegheny Forest inspired me to write the story in this setting. Our family has owned a cabin along Roper Hollow Road since the fifties. Much has changed over the years, but the beauty of the hills, the tranquility of the forest, and the spectacular view overlooking the reservoir remain. Mystery, of course, had to play into my story, since that’s what I mostly write. And that brings me to the other part of my inspiration. I’ve always had a fascination for Indian culture. I collect artifacts, books, and have even attended a few pow-wows. The Seneca people share a significant role in this area of Pennsylvania and in its history. In fact, the Kinzua Dam and Reservoir were built on an area once known as Cornplanter ...