So, one thing I’m partial to is writing what I know. Before diving headfirst into novel writing, my go-to style was the personal essay. If I’m being totally honest, it’s because I like being right. When I write based on experience, I feel more confident that I’ll avoid conflict. It’s not foolproof, but generally speaking, it works.

For that reason, I decided to use places that I know for the main settings of Turning Point. It starts in Albion, Michigan, which is where I first attended college – Go Brits! It moves on to New York City by way of Ohio and Pennsylvania, and the locations I use along the way are completely fictional. At least, that’s the intent. Perhaps Mama Italy’s is real, and I suspect there’s a gas station in Newton Falls, Ohio, but those came straight from my brain.

On the other hand, there is a scene where the reader gets to see glimpses of my Lower Manhattan.

Drew, a young and terrible vampire (and by terrible, I mean, he’s not skilled at the whole drinking blood for food thing), runs through the streets and the landmarks used are places I know and have experienced. One such location is The Slaughtered Lamb Pub. Just as it sounds, it’s straight out of An American Werewolf in London. I always thought it was a little cheesy, but I loved walking near it whenever we went exploring in the Village. As you pass by, you catch a glimpse of a giant werewolf feasting on a gratuitously bosomed lady. The poor dear has been there, accepting her fate, for decades.

Drew also finds himself disgusted by newfound vampire powers while people-watching in Washington Square Park.

And, at one point, Leo and Jake plan a simultaneous attack in Battery Park (that’s the featured image at the top).

Those are the major stopping points on the Turning Point Lower Manhattan tour.

Check it out and see for yourself.