Picture a Canadian storyteller who turned a cozy bookshop in a castle into a haven for mystery lovers—meet Essie Lang! With her Castle Bookshop Mystery series, Lang has charmed readers with tales of intrigue set in the breathtaking Thousand Islands of New York. A former mystery bookstore owner herself, she weaves her love for books and puzzles into every page, earning nominations for prestigious awards like the Agatha and Arthur Ellis.
Lang’s stories aren’t just about solving murders—they’re about immersing you in a world where history, community, and a good plot twist reign supreme. Let’s dive into the life and works of this rising star in the cozy mystery genre!
The Making of Essie Lang
Born with a passion for stories, Essie Lang—also known as Linda Wiken in other cozy mystery circles—spent years surrounded by books before penning her own. As the former owner of Prime Crime Books in Ottawa, Canada, she curated shelves of whodunits, soaking up the genre’s nuances. This hands-on experience shaped her transition from bookseller to author, fueled by a love for crafting puzzles that keep readers guessing. Her Canadian roots and bookstore days infuse her writing with authenticity and warmth, making her characters feel like old friends.
Lang’s journey to authorship wasn’t a straight path. Writing under multiple pseudonyms, she honed her craft with series like the Ashton Corners Book Club Mysteries (as Erika Chase) before launching her signature Castle Bookshop Mysteries. Her knack for blending real-world inspiration with fictional charm has made her a standout in the cozy mystery world.
Essie Lang’s Unforgettable Stories
Lang’s Castle Bookshop Mystery series is the heart of her bibliography, set in the picturesque Thousand Islands, where the fictional Blye Island hosts a bookstore nestled in a castle. Her debut, Trouble on the Books (2019), introduces Shelby Cox, a former editor turned bookseller who uncovers a murder linked to Prohibition-era smuggling. Readers adore the vivid setting and Shelby’s spunky sleuthing, with critics praising Lang’s “captivating setting” and “engaging characters.”
The series continues with Death on the Page (2020), where Shelby investigates the murder of a true-crime writer researching a Prohibition-era mobster. A Deadly Chapter (2021), the third installment, sees Shelby solving a mystery tied to her houseboat life, blending personal stakes with thrilling twists. Lang’s style shines through her descriptive prose, historical nods, and cozy elements like charming locals and a curmudgeonly cat named JT. Her plots balance lighthearted community vibes with intricate mysteries, perfect for fans of Lorna Barrett or Vicki Delany.
Beyond the Castle Bookshop series, Lang’s earlier works under other pseudonyms, like the Dinner Club Mysteries, showcase her versatility. Her ability to craft relatable heroines and weave historical intrigue sets her apart, earning her a loyal following among cozy mystery enthusiasts.
Why Essie Lang Matters
Essie Lang’s impact lies in her ability to transport readers to a world where books, castles, and mysteries collide. Her Thousand Islands setting isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a character, drawing readers to explore places like Alexandria Bay and Blye Castle. Her nomination for an Agatha Award for Best First Novel and an Arthur Ellis Award for short stories highlights her growing influence in the genre. Lang’s stories resonate with readers who crave escapism, offering a blend of heart, history, and suspense.
By championing strong female sleuths like Shelby Cox, Lang empowers readers to embrace curiosity and resilience. Her work as a former bookseller also inspires aspiring authors, proving that a love for stories can spark a creative legacy. In the cozy mystery world, Lang is a beacon of creativity and community.
- Key Works: Trouble on the Books, Death on the Page, A Deadly Chapter
- Awards: Nominated for Agatha Award (Best First Novel), Arthur Ellis Award (Best Short Story)
- Fun Fact: Lang’s real-life bookstore, Prime Crime Books, inspired the fictional Bayside Books!
Ready to get lost in a cozy mystery? Snag Trouble on the Books and dive into Essie Lang’s charming world of castles, clues, and clever sleuthing!