Picture a Canadian storyteller who conjures witches, quirky sleuths, and small-town charm with a flick of her pen—meet Auralee Wallace! Known for her magical cozy mysteries, Wallace blends humor, heart, and just a pinch of the supernatural to create stories that feel like a warm cup of Earl Grey on a crisp autumn day. From her enchanted Evenfall Witches B&B to the quirky Otter Lake mysteries, her books are a delightful escape for readers craving cozy vibes with a side of suspense.
With a background as eclectic as her tales—think balloon seller, college professor, and publishing pro—Wallace’s journey to authorship is as captivating as her novels. Her love for fairy tales and BBC mysteries shines through in every page, making her a beloved voice in the cozy mystery genre.
The Making of Auralee Wallace
Born with a book in one hand and a fairy tale in her heart, Auralee Wallace grew up in Ottawa, Canada, dreaming of becoming a witch. When that didn’t pan out, she turned to storytelling instead. With an undergraduate degree in psychology and a Master’s in English literature, she honed her understanding of human nature and narrative craft. Her early career in publishing gave her a behind-the-scenes look at the book world, while teaching at the college level sharpened her wit and wisdom. A mother of three and a devoted cat rescuer, Wallace’s life is a whirlwind of soccer games, BBC mysteries, and battles with backyard peregrine falcons—a quirky mix that fuels her creative spark.
Auralee Wallace’s Unforgettable Stories
Wallace’s bibliography is a treasure trove of cozy mysteries and humorous fiction. Her Evenfall Witches B&B Mystery series, starting with In the Company of Witches (2021), follows Brynn Warren, a young witch solving murders in a magical New England town. Praised for its blend of Practical Magic vibes and small-town intrigue, it’s a TikTok sensation for good reason. The follow-up, When the Crow’s Away (2022), dives deeper into Brynn’s supernatural sleuthing, tackling a chocolatier’s ghostly murder with charm and heart.
The Otter Lake Mystery series, kicking off with Skinny Dipping with Murder (2016), introduces Erica Bloom, a reluctant sleuth navigating deadly pranks and small-town secrets in New Hampshire. Books like Pumpkin Picking with Murder and Down the Aisle with Murder showcase Wallace’s knack for witty dialogue and eccentric characters. Her earlier work, Sidekick (2014), a superhero urban fantasy, reveals her playful side, blending humor with high-stakes adventure. Wallace’s style—light, heartfelt, and peppered with magical whimsy—makes her stories perfect for readers who love a cozy yet thrilling escape.
Themes of grief, family, and resilience weave through her work, reflecting her own experiences as a mother and storyteller. Her characters, from witches to amateur detectives, are relatable yet extraordinary, embodying the magic of everyday life. Critics laud her for balancing humor with emotional depth, creating mysteries that are as moving as they are entertaining.
Why Auralee Wallace Matters
Auralee Wallace has carved a unique niche in the cozy mystery genre, blending paranormal elements with heartfelt storytelling. Her books resonate with readers seeking comfort and excitement, offering a magical reprieve from the mundane. By centering strong, quirky women and exploring themes of loss and healing, she’s redefined what cozy mysteries can be—less about the crime, more about the community. Her influence is evident in the growing popularity of magical cozies, inspiring new voices in the genre.
Wallace’s ability to turn her diverse experiences—publisher, teacher, cat enthusiast—into universally appealing stories is a testament to her creativity. Her work reminds us that magic exists in the ordinary, waiting to be uncovered by a curious heart.
- Born: Ottawa, Canada
- Key Works: In the Company of Witches, Skinny Dipping with Murder, Sidekick
- Favorite Tea: Earl Grey
- Fun Fact: She dreams of owning a black Smoke Maine Coon cat, just like Faustus in her Evenfall series.
Ready to fall under Auralee Wallace’s spell? Snag In the Company of Witches and dive into her magical cozy mysteries today!