Picture a storyteller who spun tales of handbag-obsessed sleuths and swoon-worthy historical romances—meet Dorothy Howell! A USA Today bestselling author, Howell has captivated readers with over 44 novels, blending cozy mysteries and historical romances under her pen name, Judith Stacy. Her sassy heroine Haley Randolph has become a fan favorite, proving Howell’s knack for crafting lighthearted, stylish stories that keep you hooked.
With millions of books sold worldwide and translations in over a dozen languages, Howell’s work is a delightful mix of humor, mystery, and romance. Whether you’re chuckling over Haley’s designer purse obsession or blushing at a Judith Stacy romance, Howell’s stories are an invitation to escape into fun, fashionable worlds.
The Making of Dorothy Howell
Born in Virginia, Dorothy Howell discovered her love for writing in eighth grade, thanks to an inspiring English teacher, Mr. Donovan. Her passion for storytelling simmered for years while she raised her daughters, worked various jobs—sales clerk, underwriter, loan officer—and moved across three states. It wasn’t until 1988 that her first novel, Defiant Enchantress, hit shelves under the pen name Kit Prate. Despite early rejections, Howell’s persistence paid off, leading to a prolific career that spans decades and genres.
Dorothy Howell’s Unforgettable Stories
Howell’s cozy mysteries, particularly the Haley Randolph series, are her crown jewels. In Handbags and Homicide, we meet Haley, a 24-year-old fashionista working at Holt’s Department Store, whose obsession with designer bags lands her in a murder mystery. The series, known for its humor and fast-paced plots, includes hits like Purses and Poison and Beach Bags and Burglaries, earning a Publishers Weekly starred review and spots on Amazon’s top cozy mystery lists.
As Judith Stacy, Howell crafts historical romances that transport readers to the American West. Titles like Outlaw Love and Cheyenne Wife blend passion and adventure, with one novel earning a spot as Harlequin Historical’s Top Seller of the Year and a RITA Award nomination. Her romances are rich with strong heroines and charming heroes, appealing to readers who love a good love story with a historical twist.
Howell’s writing shines with wit, relatable characters, and a knack for weaving romance into every plot. Her cozy mysteries are “light and fluffy,” perfect for a beach read, while her romances offer heart-pounding escapism. Drawing from her own love of designer purses and her daughter’s retail job experiences, Howell infuses her stories with authenticity and charm.
Why Dorothy Howell Matters
Dorothy Howell’s impact lies in her ability to make readers smile while delivering engaging mysteries and romances. Her Haley Randolph series has redefined cozy mysteries with its fashionable flair, inspiring fans to embrace lighthearted whodunits. As Judith Stacy, she’s contributed to the historical romance genre, earning accolades and a loyal readership. With books sold in countries from Poland to Thailand, Howell’s global reach underscores her universal appeal.
Her journey from a Virginia dreamer to a bestselling author is a testament to perseverance, inspiring aspiring writers to keep honing their craft. Howell’s stories remind us that a good book can be both entertaining and empowering, leaving a lasting mark on the cozy mystery and romance genres.
- Published over 44 novels in cozy mysteries and historical romances.
- Best known for the Haley Randolph and Dana Mackenzie mystery series.
- Writes historical romances as Judith Stacy, with a RITA Award nomination.
- Lives in Los Angeles with her family.
About Dorothy Howell
Ready for a stylish mystery or a romantic escape? Snag Handbags and Homicide or Outlaw Love and dive into Dorothy Howell’s irresistible worlds!