While planning an evening menu of chicken burritos earlier today, it occurred to me, as a long-time resident of Southern California, how thoroughly Hispanic culture is immersed in my life. The food, language, architecture, music, art, and the names of streets and towns that make up the compon
ents of my life have all been impacted by the Hispanic culture.
Even my writing has been influenced by it. When I wrote Death by Sample Size, my award-winning debut humorous cozy mystery, it was only natural to have the homicide detective investigating the murder be Hispanic. LAPD Detective Miguel Martinez was an instant hit with my readers. The number of requests for him to reappear was so numerous that he is now a main character in the series. Miguel has been promoted to LAPD Captain and is one of the two budding love interests of the series protagonist, Holly Schlivnik. Their complicated, often fiery relationship has been one of the most popular additions to the series.
I may not have Hispanic blood flowing through my veins, but one thing is certain: The Hispanic culture has had and continues to be one of the most influential impacts on my life. I celebrate not only Hispanic Culture this month. I am fortunate to be surrounded by it every day.
If you’re the curious sort like me, click the link for the history of this celebration: https://www.history.com/topics/hispanic-history/hispanic-heritage-mont
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