Picture an American storyteller who spins academic intrigue with a cozy twist—meet Cynthia Kuhn! This Denver-based author and professor has carved a niche in the mystery genre with her Agatha Award-winning Lila Maclean Academic Mystery series. With a knack for blending campus politics and classic whodunit charm, Kuhn’s tales keep readers guessing and giggling.
From her roots in upstate New York to her vibrant life in Colorado, Kuhn’s journey is as compelling as her novels. Her work, celebrated for its humor and heart, has earned her a loyal following and a prominent role in the mystery community.
The Making of Cynthia Kuhn
Born in 1965 in upstate New York, Cynthia Kuhn grew up with a love for stories that shaped her future. Her passion for literature led her to academia, where she now shines as a professor of English at Metropolitan State University of Denver, teaching literature, writing, and film. Before penning mysteries, Kuhn honed her craft through short stories and essays, appearing in publications like McSweeney’s Quarterly Concern and Literary Mama. Her leap into novels came with a desire to merge her academic world with the thrill of cozy mysteries, launching a career that’s both scholarly and suspenseful.
Cynthia Kuhn’s Unforgettable Stories
Kuhn’s Lila Maclean Academic Mystery series is a masterclass in cozy crime. The debut, The Semester of Our Discontent (2016), introduces English professor Lila Maclean, who stumbles into a murder at Stonedale University. This Agatha Award-winning novel blends witty dialogue with academic rivalries, earning praise for its clever protagonist. Follow-ups like The Art of Vanishing (2017) and The Study of Secrets (2020) deepen Lila’s adventures, tackling themes of ambition and hidden truths.
In 2021, Kuhn launched the Starlit Bookshop Mystery series with How to Book a Murder. Set in the charming Silvercrest, Colorado, it follows bookseller Emma Starrs as she plans a mystery-themed party that turns deadly. The 2024 sequel, In the Event of Murder, amps up the glamour with a library gala gone wrong. Kuhn’s style—light, humorous, and layered with literary nods—makes her books a delight for cozy mystery fans.
Her stories stand out for their academic settings and amateur sleuths who use brains over brawn. With a touch of humor and a lot of heart, Kuhn crafts mysteries that feel like a warm chat with a clever friend, perfect for readers who love a puzzle without the gore.
Why Cynthia Kuhn Matters
Cynthia Kuhn’s impact extends beyond her page-turning plots. As past president of Sisters in Crime-Colorado and a national board member, she champions women crime writers, fostering a supportive community. Her work inspires aspiring authors, proving that cozy mysteries can be both fun and profound. Awards like the Agatha and nominations for the Lefty highlight her influence in the genre, while her teaching fuels the next generation of storytellers.
Kuhn’s ability to weave academic life into engaging mysteries has carved a unique space in the cozy genre. Her stories resonate with readers who crave clever, character-driven tales that celebrate intellect and curiosity.
- Born: 1965, upstate New York
- Key Works: The Semester of Our Discontent, How to Book a Murder, In the Event of Murder
- Awards: Agatha Award (Best First Novel), William F. Deeck-Malice Domestic Grant
- Fun Fact: Kuhn’s mysteries often nod to her love of literature, with clever references to classic works.
Ready to unravel a cozy mystery? Snag The Semester of Our Discontent and dive into Cynthia Kuhn’s witty, puzzle-packed world!