Author Q&A: Meet Laura Martin, Writer of Blame The Dogs

Laura Martin

We caught up with Laura Martin, whose debut novel Blame The Dogs blends layered characters, suspenseful storytelling, and themes that feel as timely as ever. Ahead of her upcoming signing event in The Heights at Good On Paper August 30th, she shared her inspiration, what readers can expect, and why Houston already feels like home.

Q: What inspired you to write this book?

Laura: One of two main characters, Herbert, presented himself to me many years ago — a vision of a successful businessman who turned recluse. Over time, he became increasingly detailed and intriguing, and the story grew around him. The second plotline came more recently, shifting the book from general literary fiction into suspense. That transformation was unintentional but organic — and it made the story all the more compelling.

Q: How would you describe your book in just a few words?

Laura: A recluse, a fanatic reporter, and a rebel leader cross paths when a corporate scandal reveals something far more personal to them than they could ever have imagined.

Q: What do you hope readers will take away from it?

Laura: I try to avoid dictating “takeaway lessons” because every reader brings their own impressions and experiences. That’s the beauty of reading. For me personally, the book became an exploration of how different generations deal with recurring societal problems — narcissism, sexism, fraud, manipulation. These issues have always existed, but hopefully our responses to them are evolving.

Q: Why are you excited to host your signing here in The Heights?

Laura: I’m Dutch and lived in New Zealand with my husband and two kids for eight years before moving to the Houston area last year. We stayed with friends in The Heights until we found a home in Bridgeland, and I was so enamored by the artistic and cultural vibe here. It’s visible, tangible — it makes me feel at home. And of course, the café and restaurant scene is next level!

Q: What can people expect when they come to the event?

Laura: It’s a small-scale, personal author event — a Meet & Greet, a reading, Q&A, and a signing of Blame The Dogs. The novel is fast-paced but designed for readers who like to think — who enjoy the intricacies of layered characters and storylines.

Bonus Fun Q: What’s one book you couldn’t put down recently?

Laura: I just finished A Man With One of Those Faces by Caimh McDonnell. It’s a crime story wrapped in a comedic narrative with a Dublin backdrop — such a gem. I also recently read All The Colors Of The Dark by Chris Whitaker. He’s a phenomenal writer who weaves crime and love into a sweeping, poetic story. It’s very mainstream at the moment, but so well-deserved.

📖 Blame The Dogs will be available at Good On Paper in The Heights on August 30,2025 11 am - 2 pm.