Picture a Missouri-born storyteller who spun childhood adventures into captivating tales of mystery and magic—meet A.W. Hartoin! A USA Today bestselling author, Hartoin blends humor, suspense, and vivid characters in her Middle Grade, Mystery, and Young Adult fiction. From the quirky Mercy Watts mysteries to the enchanting Away from Whipplethorn series, her stories invite readers into worlds where curiosity reigns supreme.
Growing up in rural Missouri, Hartoin’s visits to her grandmother’s grand home in St. Louis sparked her imagination, inspiring the settings and secrets that define her work. Her global experiences in the Air Force further shaped her ability to craft unforgettable characters, making her a beloved voice in cozy mysteries and fantasy.
The Making of A.W. Hartoin
Born in rural Missouri, A.W. Hartoin was a curious child who devoured books like Harry and the Lady Next Door. Her grandmother’s ornate St. Louis home, filled with unique houses and hidden stories, became a playground for her imagination. As the only grandchild for years, she explored every nook, dreaming up tales behind each door. This creativity laid the foundation for her future series, Mercy Watts and Away from Whipplethorn.
Determined to write authentic characters, Hartoin joined the Air Force as an adult, seeking life experience. Stationed in Alaska, Italy, and Germany, she met her husband and absorbed diverse cultures, enriching her storytelling. After settling in Colorado and later returning to Germany, she channeled these adventures into her writing, debuting with A Fairy’s Guide to Disaster in 2012.
A.W. Hartoin’s Unforgettable Stories
Hartoin’s Mercy Watts Mysteries, starting with A Good Man Gone (2013), follow a Marilyn Monroe-esque nurse-turned-sleuth solving crimes with wit and grit. Packed with humor, family drama, and St. Louis charm, the series spans 15 books, including fan-favorites like Drop Dead Red and Small Time Crime. Readers love Mercy’s knack for stumbling into trouble, from smuggling drugs to cracking cold cases.
In contrast, the Away from Whipplethorn series, beginning with A Fairy’s Guide to Disaster (2012), transports young readers to a magical world of fairies. Protagonist Matilda Whipplethorn, a fire-making wood fairy, navigates wars and quests to save friends, blending action with heart. Books like Fierce Creatures and A Monster’s Paradise captivate with their fast-paced plots and vivid fairy realms.
Hartoin’s writing shines through her ability to craft relatable characters and immersive settings. Her cozy mysteries balance laughs and thrills, while her fantasy tales weave magic with coming-of-age themes. The Stella Bled Thriller series, starting with The Paris Package (2018), adds historical intrigue, showcasing her versatility across genres.
Why A.W. Hartoin Matters
A.W. Hartoin’s impact lies in her ability to connect with readers of all ages. Her Mercy Watts series has carved a niche in cozy mysteries, offering a fresh take on the genre with humor and heart. Meanwhile, Away from Whipplethorn inspires young readers with its empowering female lead and imaginative world-building, proving fantasy can be both fun and meaningful.
Hartoin’s Missouri roots and global perspective resonate in her stories, making her a standout voice. By drawing on her Air Force travels and childhood curiosity, she creates worlds that feel authentic and inviting. Her growing fanbase eagerly awaits each release, cementing her legacy as a versatile storyteller.
- Birthplace: Rural Missouri
- Key Works: Mercy Watts Mysteries, Away from Whipplethorn, Stella Bled Thrillers
- Genres: Cozy Mystery, Middle Grade Fantasy, Young Adult Fiction
Ready to dive into A.W. Hartoin’s world? Snag A Good Man Gone or A Fairy’s Guide to Disaster and get lost in her thrilling, magical tales!