Picture an American storyteller who turned her love for justice and Jewish culture into gripping crime novels—meet Faye Kellerman! With over 20 million books in print, Kellerman’s Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus series has thrilled mystery fans worldwide, blending intricate plots with heartfelt explorations of faith and family. Her journey from mathematician to bestselling author is as captivating as her stories.
The Making of Faye Kellerman
Born on July 31, 1952, in St. Louis, Missouri, Faye Marder Kellerman grew up in Sherman Oaks, California, with a passion for Gothic tales and mysteries. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in mathematics from UCLA in 1974 and a doctorate in dental surgery in 1978, but dentistry wasn’t her calling. After marrying novelist Jonathan Kellerman and becoming a mother, she traded dental tools for a typewriter, channeling her “suspicious nature” and “penchant for the bizarre” into writing. Her debut novel, The Ritual Bath, published in 1986, launched her into the literary spotlight.
Faye Kellerman’s Unforgettable Stories
Kellerman’s signature Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus series, spanning over 27 books, follows LAPD lieutenant Peter Decker and his Orthodox Jewish wife, Rina Lazarus, as they solve chilling crimes. The Ritual Bath introduces their dynamic, weaving a rape investigation with Jewish traditions like the mikveh, earning the 1987 Macavity Award for Best First Novel. Sacred and Profane (1987) deepens their bond as they uncover a murder during a camping trip. Later works like The Hunt (2022) showcase their growth as parents and detectives, tackling kidnappings with emotional stakes. Kellerman’s style blends forensic detail with humanity, infusing Jewish themes—shomer Shabbat, kosher living—into fast-paced mysteries. Her non-series novels, like The Quality of Mercy, an Elizabethan intrigue, and Moon Music, a Las Vegas horror-mystery, highlight her versatility.
Her writing stands out for its authenticity. As a practicing Orthodox Jew, Kellerman crafts characters whose faith feels lived-in, not stereotypical. Readers, Jewish and non-Jewish alike, praise her for “getting it right,” offering a window into a culture rarely seen in crime fiction. With millions of copies sold and New York Times bestsellers, her stories resonate globally.
Why Faye Kellerman Matters
Faye Kellerman redefined the mystery genre by centering Jewish identity in mainstream crime fiction, paving the way for diverse voices. Her ability to balance thrilling plots with cultural depth has earned her a loyal following and accolades, including a 2013 Lifetime Achievement Award from Strand Magazine. Her influence extends beyond books—her family, including husband Jonathan and son Jesse, forms a literary dynasty, proving storytelling runs in their blood. Kellerman’s legacy lies in her ability to entertain while illuminating the richness of Jewish life.
- About Faye Kellerman
- Born: July 31, 1952, St. Louis, Missouri
- Key Works: The Ritual Bath, Sacred and Profane, The Hunt, The Quality of Mercy
- Awards: 1987 Macavity Award, 2013 Lifetime Achievement Award (Strand Magazine)
- Fun Fact: She’s married to bestselling author Jonathan Kellerman, and their son Jesse is also a novelist.
Snag The Ritual Bath and dive into Faye Kellerman’s thrilling world of mystery and heart!