Picture a Detroit-born storyteller who spun vampire hunts and steampunk mysteries into gold—meet Colleen C.M. Gleason! A New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Gleason’s knack for blending paranormal romance, historical intrigue, and cozy mysteries has captivated readers worldwide. From her early scribbles in primary school to crafting over forty novels, her vivid worlds and strong heroines shine.
With series like The Gardella Vampire Hunters and Stoker & Holmes, Gleason’s stories pulse with adventure, romance, and a touch of the supernatural. Her ability to weave immersive narratives across genres makes her a standout in contemporary fiction. Let’s dive into her journey, from a Michigan dreamer to a literary star!
The Making of Colleen C.M. Gleason
Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Colleen Gleason’s love for storytelling sparked in childhood. Penning tales in primary school, she completed nine full stories before her first publishing deal. She honed her craft at the University of Michigan, earning a BA in English and an MBA. Before writing full-time, Gleason worked in sales, marketing, and ran her own health insurance business, bringing a sharp business acumen to her creative career. Her transition to authorship in 2005, when she sold her debut novel to Penguin, marked the start of a prolific journey.
Colleen C.M. Gleason’s Unforgettable Stories
Gleason’s bibliography is a treasure trove of genres, from paranormal romance to young adult steampunk. Her debut series, The Gardella Vampire Hunters, launched with The Rest Falls Away in 2007, following Victoria Gardella, a vampire slayer torn between duty and love in Regency-era London. Critics praised its “deliciously dark” vibe and “sharp, taut” action, cementing Gleason’s reputation.
Under the pen name Joss Ware, she crafted The Envy Chronicles, a dystopian romance series blending post-apocalyptic grit with heartfelt connections. Her Stoker & Holmes series, starting with The Clockwork Scarab in 2013, pairs Mina Holmes and Evaline Stoker in a steampunk Victorian world, delighting YA readers with its clever mysteries. The Wicks Hollow series offers cozy ghost story romances, showcasing her versatility. Gleason’s style—rich world-building, strong heroines, and sizzling partnerships—threads through every tale.
Whether writing as Colleen Gleason, C.M. Gleason, or Alex Mandon, she infuses her stories with suspense, humor, and emotional depth. Her ability to juggle genres while maintaining an authentic voice keeps readers hooked, with each series offering a fresh escape.
Why Colleen C.M. Gleason Matters
Colleen Gleason’s impact lies in her fearless genre-blending and celebration of empowered women. Her heroines—vampire hunters, detectives, or librarians—face danger with wit and heart, inspiring readers to embrace their own strength. By crafting diverse worlds, from gothic London to dystopian wastelands, she’s expanded the boundaries of paranormal and romantic fiction. Her work resonates with fans seeking escapist yet relatable stories, earning praise from authors like J.R. Ward and Robyn Carr.
Gleason’s dedication to her craft, seen in her prolific output and fan engagement, inspires aspiring writers. Her stories, translated into seven languages, have touched a global audience, proving that a Michigan storyteller can conquer the literary world.
- Born: Detroit, Michigan
- Key Works: The Gardella Vampire Hunters, Stoker & Holmes, The Envy Chronicles, Wicks Hollow
- Pen Names: Colleen Gleason, C.M. Gleason, Joss Ware, Alex Mandon
- Awards: New York Times and USA Today bestselling author
Snag The Clockwork Scarab or The Rest Falls Away and dive into Colleen C.M. Gleason’s thrilling worlds of mystery and romance!