Picture a storyteller who swapped military flight simulators for the shimmering world of glass artistry and cozy mysteries—meet Cheryl Hollon! This Florida-based author weaves intricate plots as skillfully as she crafts stained glass, captivating readers with her Webb’s Glass Shop Mystery Series. Her journey from global engineering to charming whodunits is as fascinating as the mysteries she pens.
The Making of Cheryl Hollon
Cheryl Hollon’s early career was a far cry from the cozy streets of St. Petersburg, Florida. As a military engineer, she designed and built flight simulators, working in countries like England, Australia, Singapore, and India. Her knack for precision and problem-solving shone through, but her creative spirit yearned for more. Inspired by her love for glass artistry—shared with her husband in their home studio—she transitioned to writing. A disappointing novel on a long flight sparked her resolve: she could craft a better mystery. And so, her literary adventure began.
Cheryl Hollon’s Unforgettable Stories
Hollon’s Webb’s Glass Shop Mystery Series is a love letter to cozy mysteries and glass artistry. Her debut, Pane and Suffering (2015), introduces Savannah Webb, a glass shop owner unraveling her father’s murder in St. Petersburg. The novel blends meticulous glassmaking details with a gripping plot, setting the tone for the series. Shards of Murder (2016) dives into a deadly glass design competition, showcasing Hollon’s ability to intertwine craft and crime. Shattered at Sea (2018) takes Savannah on a Mediterranean cruise, where glassblowing demos turn deadly. Hollon’s Paint & Shine Mystery Series, starting with Still Knife Painting (2020), explores moonshine and murder in Kentucky, proving her versatility. Her style—leisurely paced, character-driven, and rich with craft lore—makes her novels both educational and enthralling.
Hollon’s stories stand out for their vivid settings and authentic details. Her glassmaking expertise, honed in her studio, infuses each book with realism, while her cozy mysteries avoid graphic violence, appealing to readers of all ages. Fans praise her for creating relatable characters, like Savannah, whose determination mirrors Hollon’s own career shift. Each novel is a puzzle, carefully constructed to keep readers guessing until the final page.
Why Cheryl Hollon Matters
Cheryl Hollon has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre by blending her unique background with heartfelt storytelling. Her novels celebrate craftsmanship, community, and clever sleuthing, resonating with readers who crave escapist yet meaningful tales. As past president of the Florida Gulf Coast Sisters in Crime, she champions fellow writers, fostering a vibrant mystery community. Her transition from engineering to authorship inspires aspiring creatives, proving it’s never too late to chase a dream. Hollon’s work, though niche, enriches the genre with its authenticity and warmth.
- Birthplace: United States
- Key Works: Webb’s Glass Shop Mystery Series, Paint & Shine Mystery Series
- Fun Fact: Hollon and her husband run a glass studio in their 1920s Florida bungalow.
Ready to dive into a world of glass and intrigue? Snag Pane and Suffering and let Cheryl Hollon’s cozy mysteries spark your imagination!