Picture a storyteller spinning gritty mysteries from a north Florida farm, where horses graze and true crime tales fuel the imagination—meet A.E. Howe! This mystery and thriller author, best known for the Larry Macklin Mysteries series, crafts gripping stories that blend small-town charm with law enforcement drama. With a knack for authentic characters and twisty plots, Howe has carved a niche in the hearts of crime fiction fans.
A former English Education graduate from the University of Georgia, Howe’s journey from classroom aspirations to bestselling author is as captivating as his novels. His rural Florida roots and diverse passions—horseback riding, competitive shooting, and a fascination with true crime—infuse his work with vivid realism and heart.
The Making of A.E. Howe
Raised in the piney woods of north Florida, A.E. Howe’s life on a farm shaped his storytelling. After earning a degree in English Education from the University of Georgia, he dabbled in screenwriting and playwriting, honing his craft for dialogue and suspense. His love for true crime and time spent around law enforcement officers sparked the idea for mysteries set in the rural South. In 2014, Howe debuted with Broken State, a thriller that laid the groundwork for his signature series. His north Florida farm, shared with his wife, horses, and countless cats, remains his creative haven.
A.E. Howe’s Unforgettable Stories
Howe’s Larry Macklin Mysteries series, launched in 2016 with November’s Past, follows Deputy Sheriff Larry Macklin as he tackles murders and corruption in fictional Adams County, near Tallahassee. The series, now spanning over 14 books, is praised for its realistic police procedures, sarcastic humor, and small-town dynamics. In November’s Past, Larry investigates a gruesome murder tied to a victim’s hidden past, setting the tone for the series’ blend of grit and heart.
December’s Secrets (2016) deepens Larry’s personal stakes when a murder suspect turns out to be his girlfriend’s father, weaving family drama into the mystery. January’s Betrayal (2016) tackles corruption within the sheriff’s office, where Larry’s father is sheriff, adding layers of tension. May’s Danger (2017) brings the action closer to home when Larry’s girlfriend, Cara, stumbles across a body at her vet clinic. Howe’s writing style—fast-paced, character-driven, and laced with humor—makes each book a page-turner, while his Florida setting evokes the charm of ‘old Florida’ with its fish camps and alligators.
Beyond the Macklin series, Howe pens the paranormal Baron Blasko Mysteries, set in 1930s Alabama, showcasing his versatility. His work as co-host of the 'Guns of Hollywood' podcast reflects his firearms expertise, often woven into his stories’ authentic details.
Why A.E. Howe Matters
A.E. Howe’s impact lies in his ability to bring rural Florida to life, making readers feel the humidity and hear the cicadas while unraveling complex mysteries. His authentic portrayal of law enforcement, drawn from real-world insights, resonates with fans of police procedurals. The Larry Macklin series, with its relatable protagonist and tight-knit community, offers a fresh take on the genre, earning a loyal following. Howe’s clean, engaging narratives—free of excessive vulgarity—appeal to readers seeking thrilling yet approachable stories.
By blending his passions into his work, Howe inspires aspiring authors to draw from their own lives. His growing fanbase and plans for more series signal a lasting legacy in mystery fiction, proving that small-town stories can have big impact.
- Key Works: Larry Macklin Mysteries, Baron Blasko Mysteries
- First Book: Broken State (2014)
- Notable Series Start: November’s Past (2016)
- Hobbies: Horseback riding, competitive shooting, farming
Ready to dive into a mystery that feels like a humid Florida night? Snag November’s Past and join Larry Macklin’s thrilling adventures in A.E. Howe’s gripping world!