Picture a dynamic duo spinning cozy mysteries that charm readers with wit and warmth—meet Elizabeth Perona! This pen name represents the father-daughter writing team of Tony Perona and Liz Dombrosky, whose Bucket List Mystery Series has delighted fans with its spirited septuagenarian sleuths. Their debut, Murder on the Bucket List, introduced a bridge club of adventurous seniors, blending humor, heart, and clever whodunits that keep you guessing.
Based in Plainfield, Indiana, Elizabeth Perona crafts stories that celebrate friendship and the thrill of chasing dreams, no matter your age. With a knack for small-town settings and lively characters, their books are a cozy mystery lover’s dream, earning praise for their engaging plots and low-gore appeal.
The Making of Elizabeth Perona
Tony Perona, a seasoned mystery writer, and Liz Dombrosky, a Ball State University graduate with a teaching degree, joined forces to create Elizabeth Perona. Tony, a retired Deputy Town Manager, brought his experience from the Nick Bertetto mystery series and anthologies like Racing Can Be Murder. Liz, a stay-at-home mom and church administrator, added a fresh perspective and a flair for details. Their collaboration began when Tony needed help with a manuscript, and Liz’s enthusiasm turned it into a fun, shared adventure. Inspired by a real-life skinny-dipping story from a bridge club, they crafted their unique brand of cozy mysteries.
Elizabeth Perona’s Unforgettable Stories
The Bucket List Mystery Series is the heart of Elizabeth Perona’s work, featuring five spirited women in their 70s who tackle bucket list goals and stumble into murders. Murder on the Bucket List (2015) kicks off with the Summer Ridge Bridge Club’s skinny-dipping escapade, only to find a dead body, launching Charlotte and Francine into a hilarious investigation. Critics lauded its 'bubbly characters' and 'well-crafted mystery' (Kirkus Reviews, New York Journal of Books).
Murder Under the Covered Bridge (2016) follows with a pin-up calendar shoot interrupted by gunshots, weaving family secrets and a touch of fantasy. Murder at the Male Revue (2017) brings slapstick humor as the ladies cater a fundraiser and solve a stabbing. The latest, Murder in the Tattoo Parlor (2021), dives into a fresh adventure, self-published after the duo reclaimed their rights from Midnight Ink. Their style blends madcap comedy, tight plots, and small-town charm, avoiding gore for a warm, inviting read.
Beyond novels, they’ve penned short stories, including 'The Ear Witness' in Murder 20/20, which earned a 2021 Best Mystery Stories Honor Roll nod. Their work reflects a love for quirky characters and the joy of living life to the fullest, resonating with cozy mystery fans.
Why Elizabeth Perona Matters
Elizabeth Perona’s stories stand out in the cozy mystery genre for their celebration of older protagonists who defy stereotypes. The Summer Ridge Bridge Club’s adventures inspire readers to embrace adventure at any age, proving that curiosity and camaraderie never fade. Their books have garnered a loyal following, with reviewers comparing their charm to Murder, She Wrote and praising their ability to blend humor with suspense. By self-publishing their latest work, Tony and Liz have shown resilience, keeping their series alive for fans worldwide.
Their impact extends to the cozy mystery community, where they’re active members of Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime. Their collaborative spirit as a father-daughter team adds a heartwarming layer, making Elizabeth Perona a name to watch in cozy mysteries.
- Key Works: Murder on the Bucket List, Murder Under the Covered Bridge, Murder at the Male Revue, Murder in the Tattoo Parlor
- Genre: Cozy Mystery
- Notable Recognition: 'The Ear Witness' Honor Roll, Best Mystery Stories of the Year 2021
Snag Murder on the Bucket List and dive into Elizabeth Perona’s delightful world of senior sleuths and small-town mysteries!