Behind the story of Dog-Gone Dead by Jackie Layton

Jackie Layton is a part-time pharmacist who also writes about the area where she lives, the Low Country. Dog-Gone Dead is the second book in the Low Country Dog Walker Mystery series.

Inspiration for Dog-Gone Dead

Jackie said that facing fears is the theme in Dog-Gone Dead. She began writing the book long before the COVID-19 pandemic and never imagined having to deal with something of this nature. “People face fears in different ways. Some people watch movies or read books focused on wars and that helps them not be as afraid of COVID-19. Others reach out to friends, family, alcohol, drugs, and keeping themselves busy with projects. Still others turn to God. One scripture on fear is Psalm 34:4, ‘I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.’

The area where Jackie lives, which is near the beach, was also a source of inspiration for the series. “I love living at the beach, and I created the fictional town of Heyward Beach based on some of my favorite beaches. I knew my character would need a flexible schedule to chase after killers, so I made Andi Grace Scott a dog walker. Family is important to Andi Grace, and her brother is a suspect in Dog-Gone Dead. She must defend him and decides the best way to prove his innocence is to find the real killer.”

On a personal note

“I love my husband, kids, and grandkids. I’m an author and work part-time as a pharmacist. My husband and I always dreamed of living near the coast, and four years ago he was offered a job in South Carolina. We’re a very short drive away from the closest beach, and if we really feel energetic, we can walk to the beach. I hope readers enjoy visiting Heyward Beach as much as I enjoy it.”

Jackie also said she loves traveling to visit beaches and small towns. “Eating at local restaurants gives me a real feel for the local people. Walking through neighborhoods and saying hi to people is also a great way to connect and learn about the area’s history. For the past two hundred years, the locals in Pawleys Island say the Gray Man Ghost has appeared before each of the five hurricanes. The Gray Man’s goal is to save people from harm. So if you see the Gray man, it’s time to leave.”

Learn more about Jackie Layton at jackielaytoncozyauthor.com.