SRP Review: Cam Shaw from Who Killed the Ghost in the Library?

Disclaimer: The reviews I post on The Self Rescue Princess won’t be the usual style of book review that talks about all the points and elements of a novel. My intention is to focus on heroines that I believe exemplify the spirit and character of a self-rescuing princess or are on their way to achieving that status.

Who Killed the Ghost in the Library was just the book I was looking for right now. We’re in the middle of a prolonged kitchen remodel and my stress level is a little high. I wanted a fun, engaging book that took me out of my life and put me into someone else’s and this book accomplished those goals. Cam Shaw is a headstrong, sassy, take-charge, yet still kind and trusting. Normally, I get annoyed with heroines who are so trusting they fall into the too-stupid-to-live category of heroines (and those books I stop reading after a couple of chapters). But, Cam’s trusting nature wasn’t because she refused to see what was in front of her, instead it rested in the fact she focused on the good in people and was willing to give everyone a chance.

With Cam Shaw, I found her accepting and trusting nature charming and a true part of her character rather than just a device for her to rush headlong into trouble. She believes the best about everyone and is willing to take them at their word, a little unusual for an amateur sleuth, but that’s what I loved that about her. Now don’t get me wrong, Cam isn’t a push-over. She’ll speak her mind and when she finds out she’s been lied to all bets are off.

I also admired the fact that Cam isn’t afraid to ask her friends for help when needed. It’s not a trait that comes easily to me and I found that very intriguing and admirable with Cam. I loved seeing a character who wasn’t afraid to reach out to her friends for help and accept it.

 

SRP Heroine Interview: Cam Shaw from Who Killed the Ghost in the Library?

Today on The Self-Rescue Princess, I’m speaking with Cam Shaw from the book Who Killed the Ghost in the Library.  

1. Please tell us a little bit about what is currently going on in your life?

I put an ad in the newspaper, hoping to find some work as a ghost writer. When someone answers the ad, my new client turns out to be a real ghost, who wants me to solve their murder. But someone doesn’t want the truth to come out, and they are willing to do anything to stop the investigation…even if that means killing me!

2. What made you decide to take on such a risky endeavor?

Curiosity, for starters. I’ve always loved a good mystery, and I enjoy the challenge of trying to figure out whodunit. Throw in the police chief telling me repeatedly to butt out of his investigation…why, my stubbornness got the best of me. And someone tried to kill me. That’s more than enough to make me see things through to the end.

3. Did you ever imagine yourself being involved in fighting crime?

Oh good heavens, no! I’m perfectly content being a writer, working in my best friend Randy’s bookstore (a book lover’s dream job!), and helping my parents run their coffeehouse. The closest I ever got to fighting crime was figuring out who stole my bike when I was twelve (it was Randy – he took it for a joyride, and brought it back in pieces).

4. Who would you say is the least pleased about your additional career choice of amateur sleuthing? Or is detective work your only career?

The least pleased? You mean besides the police chief, Mike Penhall? Probably my mother, because I involved Grandma Alma. But I know she doesn’t want to see me get hurt.

5. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Sometimes my strengths can also be part of my weaknesses. It’s good to have an inquisitive mind, and the determination to see things through to the end, regardless of the obstacles that get in your way. But sometimes wanting to know all the answers and being too stubborn to stop when things get dangerous and deadly can have dire consequences.

6. Describe what being a self-rescue princess (a strong, confident woman) means to you.

It means that I have enough faith in myself to do the right thing when the situation calls for it. If a friend is in danger, I know I’m going to grab my Sig Sauer and be right there by their side fighting. And I’m strong enough to realize it’s okay to ask your family and friends for help. Asking for help doesn’t make you weak; it makes you stronger because you’re not alone.

7. What one advice/wisdom would you like to pass onto young women?

If a man you’re dating is holding you back, isn’t supportive, or just flat out dismissive of you and your dreams, drop kick that dead weight out the door!

8. What was one lesson you learned during this challenging time in your life?

I learned that love can happen when you least expect it, and from the most unlikely person. And it’s a wonderful thing if that person is willing to let you be a strong, confident woman without feeling threatened. They are to be treasured and cherished.

9. If your story or life had a theme song, what would it be?

Ever since I solved this case, my friends have been singing the theme song to “Ghostbusters” by Ray Parker Jr. Someone (I think it was Randy or Jo) changed my ringtone to that song! Being technology challenged, I haven’t figured out how to change it yet!

10. Do you plan on dabbling in amateur sleuthing in the future, or have you hung up your detective hat?

Well, I’m fixing to attend a ghost writers’ convention in Dallas, not far from my home in Waxahachie.