Picture a Detroit-born storyteller who crafts mysteries with heart and history—meet Cheryl A. Head! A writer, filmmaker, and media executive, Head has carved a unique path in crime fiction and historical novels. Her Charlie Mack Motown Mystery series, featuring a Black, queer private investigator, has captivated readers with its blend of grit, humor, and social commentary, earning her accolades and a devoted following.
Now based in Washington, D.C., Head’s work reflects her commitment to diversity and inclusion, weaving narratives that celebrate marginalized voices. From her award-nominated debut to her role as a literary advocate, she’s a force in modern storytelling. Let’s dive into her journey and why her stories resonate so deeply.
The Making of Cheryl A. Head
Born and raised in Detroit’s vibrant east side, Cheryl A. Head grew up immersed in the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Her early years in the Motor City shaped her storytelling, infusing it with a sense of place and resilience. Before turning to fiction, Head built a dynamic career in media, working as a television producer, filmmaker, and broadcast executive in Detroit and Washington, D.C. These roles honed her knack for narrative and her passion for amplifying diverse voices, which later defined her writing.
Head’s transition to writing was a natural evolution. Inspired by her experiences and a love for British mysteries, she retired early from media to focus on crafting stories. Her background in public broadcasting, coupled with extensive travel, enriched her perspective, giving her tales a global yet grounded feel. This blend of personal and professional influences set the stage for her literary breakthrough.
Cheryl A. Head’s Unforgettable Stories
Head’s literary career kicked off with *Long Way Home: A World War II Novel* (2014), a self-published historical tale about Black soldiers stateside during WWII. A coming-of-age story laced with romance and a murder mystery, it earned finalist spots in the 2015 Next Generation Indie Book Awards for African American Literature and Historical Fiction. Its heartfelt narrative showcased Head’s ability to blend history with human drama.
The *Charlie Mack Motown Mystery* series, launched with *Bury Me When I’m Dead* (2016), is Head’s crown jewel. Following Charlene “Charlie” Mack, a Black, lesbian PI in Detroit, the six-book series tackles complex cases—from missing persons to domestic terrorism—while exploring themes of identity, family, and social justice. Titles like *Wake Me When It’s Over* and *Catch Me When I’m Falling* have earned Lambda Literary Award finalist nods and a Golden Crown Literary Society Ann Bannon Popular Choice Award. Head’s sharp dialogue, vivid Detroit settings, and diverse characters make the series a standout in crime fiction.
In 2023, Head released *Time’s Undoing*, a historical mystery inspired by her grandfather’s tragic death in Jim Crow Alabama. Alternating between 1929 and 2019, it’s a poignant exploration of inherited trauma and racial justice, earning praise as an Indie Next pick and an Amazon Best Book of March. Head’s style—pithy, character-driven, and socially aware—invites readers into worlds where mystery meets meaning.
Why Cheryl A. Head Matters
Cheryl A. Head’s impact extends beyond her page-turning plots. As a queer Black woman, she brings underrepresented perspectives to crime fiction, challenging genre norms with stories that center diversity and inclusion. Her work has been recognized with multiple award nominations, including two Anthony Awards, and her induction into the 2019 Saints and Sinners Literary Festival Hall of Fame. Head’s books are also part of the Detroit Public Library’s African American Booklist and the Library of Michigan’s Special Collections, cementing her cultural significance.
As Director of Inclusion for the Golden Crown Literary Society, Head champions lesbian literature and fosters diverse voices in publishing. Her advocacy and storytelling inspire readers and writers alike, proving that mysteries can entertain while sparking meaningful conversations. In a genre often dominated by predictable tropes, Head’s work is a refreshing, vital contribution.
- Born: Detroit, Michigan
- Key Works: *Long Way Home*, *Charlie Mack Motown Mystery* series, *Time’s Undoing*
- Awards: Golden Crown Literary Society Ann Bannon Popular Choice Award, two-time Lambda Literary Award finalist, 2019 Saints and Sinners Hall of Fame
Ready to get lost in a gripping mystery? Snag *Bury Me When I’m Dead* or *Time’s Undoing* and dive into Cheryl A. Head’s thrilling, heartfelt world!