Picture a Southern California native weaving chilling mysteries against Colorado’s rugged mountains—meet Emily Littlejohn! With her Detective Gemma Monroe series, Littlejohn has carved a niche in the mystery genre, blending atmospheric storytelling with complex characters in the fictional town of Cedar Valley. Her tales of secrets and suspense have captivated readers, earning her a spot as a rising star in crime fiction.
Born and raised in Southern California, Littlejohn traded sunny beaches for Colorado’s snowy peaks over a decade ago. Now based in the Denver metro area, she draws inspiration from the state’s breathtaking landscapes, crafting stories that feel as vivid as a winter blizzard. Her love for mystery and horror shines through, making her novels perfect for readers who crave a thrilling escape.
The Making of Emily Littlejohn
Littlejohn’s journey to authorship wasn’t a straight path. A former librarian with a passion for literacy, she spent years surrounded by books, nurturing her love for storytelling. Her fascination with mystery and horror, sparked by authors like Stephen King, fueled her imagination. A vivid vision of a dead clown in full costume inspired her debut novel, kicking off her writing career. Over two years, she crafted Inherit the Bones, a labor of love that introduced the world to Detective Gemma Monroe.
Now working in city government and raising a family, Littlejohn balances her busy life with writing. Her Colorado home, nestled in the Front Range, provides the perfect backdrop for her creative process, where rolling hills and dense forests inspire the eerie charm of Cedar Valley.
Emily Littlejohn’s Unforgettable Stories
Littlejohn’s Detective Gemma Monroe series, set in the fictional Cedar Valley, Colorado, is her hallmark. The series follows Gemma, a tenacious police officer and mother, as she unravels dark secrets in a seemingly idyllic town. Each novel blends police procedural with rich character drama, exploring themes of trust, family, and hidden truths.
Inherit the Bones (2016), the series opener, introduces Gemma, six months pregnant, investigating a circus clown’s murder tied to a 40-year-old secret. A Season to Lie (2017) sees Gemma, now a new mother, tackling a brutal killing at a private school during a blizzard. Lost Lake (2018) follows a missing curator’s case at a frozen lake, weaving in museum intrigue. Shatter the Night (2019) delivers Halloween chills as Gemma probes a retired judge’s murder amid anonymous threats. Praised for lyrical prose and unpredictable twists, Littlejohn’s work has earned starred reviews from Library Journal and comparisons to Louise Penny.
Her style is immersive, with Cedar Valley’s seasons—summer campers, winter skiers—setting a vivid stage. Littlejohn’s strength lies in her characters, from Gemma’s relatable struggles to quirky locals, making her mysteries as emotional as they are gripping.
Why Emily Littlejohn Matters
Littlejohn’s impact lies in her ability to elevate the mystery genre with heart and authenticity. Her portrayal of Gemma as a flawed, fierce heroine resonates with readers, offering a fresh take on the detective archetype. By addressing real-world issues like workplace harassment and societal divides, her stories feel grounded yet thrilling. A two-time Colorado Book Award finalist, Littlejohn has cemented her place as a voice to watch, inspiring new mystery writers.
Her work also celebrates Colorado’s beauty, drawing readers to its landscapes while exposing the shadows beneath. For fans of character-driven crime novels, Littlejohn’s series is a must-read, blending suspense with soul.
- Born: Southern California
- Key Works: Inherit the Bones, A Season to Lie, Lost Lake, Shatter the Night
- Awards: Two-time Colorado Book Award finalist
- Fun Fact: Inspired by a vision of a dead clown
Snag Inherit the Bones and dive into Emily Littlejohn’s thrilling world of secrets and suspense!