Picture an American storyteller who whisks readers to the elegant yet treacherous world of Edwardian England—meet Clara McKenna! With her acclaimed Stella and Lyndy Mystery series, McKenna spins tales of murder, romance, and horseracing that captivate fans of historical cozy mysteries. Her knack for blending rich historical detail with gripping whodunits has earned her a devoted following and critical praise.
Born with an incurable wanderlust, McKenna channels her love for England into vivid narratives that transport readers to a bygone era. As a founding member of Sleuths in Time, she’s not just a writer but a champion of historical mysteries, bringing charm and intrigue to every page.
The Making of Clara McKenna
Hailing from Syracuse, New York, Clara McKenna—pen name of Anna Loan-Wilsey—built an eclectic foundation for her writing career. Armed with a B.A. in Biology from Wells College and an M.L.I.S. in Library and Information Studies from McGill University, she developed a researcher’s precision, perfect for crafting historically accurate mysteries. Her love for England, sparked by a teenage trip funded by years of savings, became the heartbeat of her work. After stints in Finland, Montreal, and Texas, she settled in Ames, Iowa, where she writes from a Victorian farmhouse, immersing herself in the past.
McKenna’s writing journey began under her real name with the Hattie Davish series, set in 1890s America. But it was her shift to Edwardian England with the Stella and Lyndy series that truly defined her voice, blending her passion for history with her storytelling flair.
Clara McKenna’s Unforgettable Stories
The Stella and Lyndy Mystery series is McKenna’s crown jewel, following American heiress Stella Kendrick and Viscount ‘Lyndy’ Lyndhurst as they navigate love, scandal, and murder in Edwardian England. Set in the lush New Forest region, the series kicks off with Murder at Morrington Hall (2019), where an arranged marriage spirals into a deadly mystery when the vicar is found dead. Readers are hooked by Stella’s spirited independence and Lyndy’s roguish charm.
Subsequent novels, like Murder at Blackwater Bend (2020) and Murder at Keyhaven Castle (2021), deepen the couple’s bond while unraveling complex mysteries. Murder at Keyhaven Castle earned a spot on Suspense Magazine’s Best of 2021 list, praised for its shocking twists. The latest, Murder at Glenloch Hill (2024), takes the sleuths to Scotland, weaving golf and family secrets into a thrilling plot. McKenna’s style shines through meticulous historical detail—think afternoon teas and New Forest ponies—paired with cozy yet suspenseful storytelling that keeps readers guessing.
Her ability to balance romance, mystery, and cultural clashes between American and British sensibilities makes each book a delightful escape. Fans of Alyssa Maxwell and Anna Lee Huber find McKenna’s work a perfect blend of wit and intrigue.
Why Clara McKenna Matters
Clara McKenna has carved a niche in the historical mystery genre, bringing Edwardian England to life with authenticity and heart. Her work resonates with readers who crave immersive settings and strong, relatable characters like Stella, whose independence defies the era’s constraints. As a founding member of Sleuths in Time, McKenna fosters a community of historical mystery writers, amplifying the genre’s reach.
Her novels, published by Kensington Books, have garnered accolades like the Historical Novel Society’s Editor’s Choice, cementing her influence. By spotlighting themes of class, gender, and resilience, McKenna’s stories entertain while subtly reflecting timeless human struggles, making her a beloved voice in cozy mysteries.
- Born: Syracuse, New York
- Key Works: Murder at Morrington Hall, Murder at Keyhaven Castle, Murder at Glenloch Hill
- Awards: Suspense Magazine’s Best of 2021 for Murder at Keyhaven Castle
- Fun Fact: McKenna’s love for England began with a trip she saved for since age 10!
Ready to step into Edwardian England? Snag Murder at Morrington Hall and dive into Clara McKenna’s enchanting world of mystery and romance!