Picture an Alaskan-born storyteller who swapped the rugged wilderness for Ireland’s emerald hills, weaving tales that captivate readers across genres—meet Catie Murphy! Known for her cozy mysteries, thrilling fantasies, and heart-pounding romances, Murphy writes under multiple pen names, each showcasing her knack for crafting vibrant worlds. Her journey from a six-year-old poet to a beloved author is a testament to persistence and passion.
The Making of Catie Murphy
Born on June 1, 1973, in Alaska, Catherine E. Murphy began her literary adventure early, submitting poems to her school’s publication at age six. Though her teacher picked what she thought was the 'worst' poem, she encouraged young Catie to keep writing—a spark that never faded. After a varied career, including stints as a library volunteer, cannery worker, and web designer, Murphy’s love for storytelling led her to Ireland, her ancestral homeland, where she lives with her family.
Murphy’s writing career took off after years of honing her craft. In 2002, she attended the Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers’ Colorado Conference, igniting her drive to become a professional author. Her persistence paid off when Harlequin acquired her urban fantasy novel Urban Shaman, launching the Walker Papers series and marking her as a rising star.
Catie Murphy’s Unforgettable Stories
As Catie Murphy, she pens the Dublin Driver Mysteries, a cozy mystery series featuring Megan Malone, a Texan limo driver solving crimes in Dublin. The series, starting with Dead in Dublin (2019), blends Irish charm, witty dialogue, and intricate whodunits. Readers praise its lush settings and Megan’s compassionate sleuthing, with titles like Death on the Green (2020) and Death by Irish Whiskey (2024) earning starred reviews.
Under her primary pen name, C.E. Murphy, she explores fantasy with the Walker Papers series, following reluctant shaman Joanne Walker through magical adventures. This urban fantasy saga, beginning with Urban Shaman (2005), showcases Murphy’s ability to blend myth and modernity. She also writes action-adventure romances as Cate Dermody, a nod to her grandmother’s maiden name, and paranormal romances as Murphy Lawless and Zoe Chant, proving her versatility across genres.
Murphy’s style is marked by strong, relatable protagonists, vivid settings, and a balance of humor and heart. Her Irish-inspired mysteries reflect her deep connection to her adopted home, while her fantasies draw on global mythologies, appealing to readers who crave immersive storytelling.
Why Catie Murphy Matters
Catie Murphy’s impact lies in her ability to bridge cultures and genres, crafting stories that resonate with diverse audiences. Her Dublin Driver Mysteries offer an armchair tour of Ireland, infused with local dialect and customs, making cozy mysteries feel fresh and authentic. Her fantasy works, meanwhile, empower readers with tales of self-discovery and resilience, earning her a loyal following and critical acclaim.
By writing under multiple pseudonyms, Murphy ensures her readers know exactly what to expect—mysteries as Catie, fantasies as C.E., or romances as Cate—while inviting them to explore her full range. Her journey from an Alaskan poet to an Irish-based author inspires aspiring writers, showing that dedication can turn dreams into reality.
- Born: June 1, 1973, in Alaska
- Key Works: Dublin Driver Mysteries, Walker Papers series, The Negotiator Trilogy
- Pen Names: C.E. Murphy, Cate Dermody, Murphy Lawless, Zoe Chant
- Current Home: Ireland
Ready to dive into Catie Murphy’s world? Grab Dead in Dublin for a cozy mystery adventure or Urban Shaman for a magical ride—her stories are sure to enchant!