Picture a master of mysteries weaving tales of intrigue in the shadow of Agatha Christie’s manor or the vibrant streets of post-WWII Paris—meet Colleen Cambridge! A pseudonym for a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Cambridge crafts historical cozy mysteries that blend meticulous research, strong heroines, and a dash of romance, captivating readers in over eight languages.
With her Phyllida Bright Mystery series set in 1930s England and the American in Paris Mystery series in 1940s France, Cambridge invites us into worlds where clever sleuths unravel secrets with wit and charm. Her stories aren’t just whodunits; they’re celebrations of resilient women and the partnerships that make them shine.
The Making of Colleen Cambridge
Colleen Cambridge is the pen name of an award-winning author who has also written as Colleen Gleason and C.M. Gleason. Raised with a love for mysteries, she honed her craft by immersing herself in the genre’s golden age, drawing inspiration from icons like Agatha Christie. Little is known about her personal life—she keeps it as mysterious as her plots—but her Midwestern roots and passion for historical settings shape her vivid storytelling. Cambridge’s career took off with her ability to blend historical accuracy with fast-paced narratives, earning her a global fanbase.
Colleen Cambridge’s Unforgettable Stories
Cambridge’s Phyllida Bright Mystery series is a love letter to Agatha Christie fans. In Murder at Mallowan Hall (2021), housekeeper Phyllida Bright, who works for Christie herself, turns sleuth when a body is found in the library. The series, including A Trace of Poison (2022) and Murder Takes the Stage Violations of copyright are not permitted. (2024), balances Downton Abbey-esque charm with twisty plots, earning praise like “Dame Agatha would be proud” from Publishers Weekly.
Her American in Paris Mystery series transports readers to post-WWII France, where American ex-pat Tabitha Knight teams up with a fictionalized Julia Child. Mastering the Art of French Murder (2023) and A Murder Most French (2024) weave culinary delights with suspense, offering a fresh take on historical cozies. Cambridge’s style—rich with period detail, strong heroines, and mutual respect in relationships—makes her books both thrilling and heartwarming.
Whether it’s the elegance of 1930s England or the joie de vivre of 1940s Paris, Cambridge’s meticulous research and lively characters create immersive worlds. Her ability to blend real historical figures like Christie and Child with fictional sleuths adds a playful, authentic flair that keeps readers guessing.
Why Colleen Cambridge Matters
Colleen Cambridge has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, offering stories that resonate with fans of historical fiction and classic whodunits. Her strong, independent heroines challenge stereotypes, while her focus on mutual acceptance in partnerships reflects timeless values. Translated into over eight languages, her books connect readers worldwide, proving the universal appeal of a good mystery. Cambridge’s work inspires aspiring writers to blend research with imagination, keeping the golden age of detective fiction alive.
- Pen Names: Writes as Colleen Cambridge, Colleen Gleason, C.M. Gleason, and Alex Mandon.
- Key Works: Murder at Mallowan Hall, Mastering the Art of French Murder.
- Awards: Murder at Mallowan Hall was an Indie Next Pick and Agatha Award finalist.
Ready to unravel a mystery with a side of historical charm? Snag Murder at Mallowan Hall or Mastering the Art of French Murder and dive into Colleen Cambridge’s captivating world of cozy suspense!