Picture a cozy library in a charming Connecticut town, where a ghost helps solve murders—meet Allison Brook, the pen name of Marilyn Levinson, a master of cozy mysteries! With her Haunted Library Mystery series, Brook spins tales that blend intrigue, romance, and a touch of the supernatural, captivating readers who love a good whodunit with a warm, small-town vibe.
A former Spanish teacher turned storyteller, Brook’s knack for crafting lovable characters and twisty plots has made her a rising star in the cozy mystery genre. Her stories invite you to curl up with a cup of tea and a puzzle that keeps you guessing until the last page.
The Making of Allison Brook
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Marilyn Levinson grew up with a love for reading and storytelling, a passion that followed her through her studies at Syracuse University and her career as a Spanish teacher. Her early fascination with mysteries, inspired by icons like Agatha Christie, fueled her desire to write. Under the pseudonym Allison Brook, Levinson found a fresh voice for her cozy mysteries, allowing her to explore lighter, community-driven stories with a paranormal twist.
Levinson’s diverse writing background—spanning romantic suspense, children’s fiction, and mysteries—shaped her ability to weave complex narratives with relatable characters. Choosing the Allison Brook pseudonym was a strategic move, suggested by her publisher, to carve out a distinct identity for her cozy mystery brand.
Allison Brook’s Unforgettable Stories
The Haunted Library Mystery series, launched in 2017 with Death Overdue, is Brook’s signature work. Set in Clover Ridge, Connecticut, it follows librarian Carrie Singleton, who teams up with Evelyn, a ghostly former library aide, to solve murders. The series’ charm lies in its blend of cozy elements—a quaint library, a curious cat named Smoky Joe, and a tight-knit community—with gripping mysteries and a dash of romance.
Key titles include Read and Gone, where Carrie tackles a holiday heist tied to her estranged father, and Booked on Murder, the series’ 2024 finale, which sees Carrie juggling wedding plans and a string of killings. Brook’s style is accessible yet layered, with plots that balance emotional depth, humor, and suspense. Her ability to craft red herrings and surprising twists keeps readers hooked, while her focus on character growth—especially Carrie’s journey from drifter to confident sleuth—adds heart.
Brook’s other works, like the Golden Age of Mystery Book Club series under her real name, showcase her versatility, but the Haunted Library series remains her most beloved, earning praise for its “cornucopia of coziness” and comparisons to authors like Jenn McKinlay and Nancy Atherton.
Why Allison Brook Matters
Allison Brook has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre by blending traditional elements with paranormal flair, appealing to readers who crave both comfort and excitement. Her stories resonate with those who love strong, relatable heroines and settings that feel like home. The Haunted Library series, with its Agatha Award nomination for Death Overdue in 2018, has built a loyal following, proving Brook’s skill at delivering escapist yet meaningful tales.
As Marilyn Levinson, she’s also inspired aspiring writers through her varied career and dedication to her craft. Brook’s work reminds us that mysteries can be both thrilling and heartwarming, leaving a lasting mark on the genre.
- Born: Brooklyn, New York
- Key Works: Haunted Library Mystery series, including Death Overdue and Booked on Murder
- Award: Agatha Award nominee for Best Contemporary Novel (2018)
Ready to get lost in a cozy mystery? Snag Death Overdue and dive into Allison Brook’s delightful world of ghosts, cats, and clever sleuthing!