Picture a Reno-based storyteller who turned Sherlock Holmes and Moriarty into teenage rivals in modern-day London—meet Heather W. Petty! With a lifelong obsession for mysteries, Petty crafts gripping young adult tales that blend suspense, romance, and clever twists. Her Lock & Mori series has hooked readers with its fresh take on classic detective stories, proving she’s a rising star in YA literature.
From her Nevada home, shared with her husband, daughter, and four delightfully devious cats, Petty channels her love for British drawing-room murders into stories that resonate with teens and mystery buffs alike. Let’s dive into the world of this captivating author!
The Making of Heather W. Petty
Heather W. Petty’s passion for mysteries sparked at age twelve, when she fell in love with stories of murders in London drawing rooms and English seaside villages. Growing up, she devoured Agatha Christie novels, with favorites like Murder on the Orient Express shaping her storytelling instincts. Though little is shared about her early life, her Reno, Nevada, roots and eclectic experiences—like working as an outdoor education instructor teaching geology and physics—hint at a curious, adventurous spirit that fuels her writing.
Petty’s writing journey began with a bold idea: reimagining Sherlock Holmes and Moriarty as high school students. Inspired by a blog post questioning Sherlock’s perspective on Moriarty, she crafted her debut novel, Lock & Mori, which launched her into the YA scene in 2015. Her knack for blending classic mystery tropes with modern teen dynamics set her apart.
Heather Petty’s Unforgettable Stories
Petty’s Lock & Mori series, a trilogy published by Simon & Schuster, is her hallmark achievement. The first book, Lock & Mori (2015), introduces James “Mori” Moriarty, a brilliant teenage girl, and Sherlock “Lock” Holmes as they team up to solve a murder in London’s Regent’s Park. Their chemistry—sparked by a competitive bet to crack the case—evolves into romance, but secrets and betrayal loom. Critics praised its “clear writing” and “memorable imagery,” noting Mori’s multidimensional character.
The sequels, Mind Games (2016) and Final Fall (2017), deepen the stakes. Mind Games explores Mori’s unraveling trust in Lock as darker truths emerge, while Final Fall delivers an action-packed conclusion, focusing on Mori’s fierce determination to protect her brothers. Though some fans found the final book less mystery-driven, Petty’s ability to weave gritty themes—grief, abuse, and moral ambiguity—keeps readers hooked.
Petty’s style is darkly atmospheric, blending sharp dialogue, vivid settings, and psychological depth. Her modern London feels both familiar and fresh, appealing to teens who love thrillers with emotional heft. By gender-flipping Moriarty and setting the duo in high school, she reinvents Sherlockian lore while staying true to its investigative spirit.
Why Heather W. Petty Matters
Heather W. Petty’s impact lies in her ability to breathe new life into a century-old literary rivalry. Her Lock & Mori series bridges classic detective fiction with contemporary YA, drawing fans of Sherlock Holmes and newcomers alike. By centering a strong, complex female Moriarty, Petty challenges traditional gender roles in mystery narratives, offering a fresh lens on power and rivalry.
Her stories resonate with teens navigating identity, trust, and family, making her a vital voice in YA literature. Petty’s knack for crafting suspenseful yet relatable tales ensures her work endures, inspiring young readers to embrace their inner sleuths.
About Heather W. Petty
- Key Works: Lock & Mori (2015), Mind Games (2016), Final Fall (2017)
- Hometown: Reno, Nevada
- Inspiration: Agatha Christie and British mysteries
- Fun Fact: She’s a self-proclaimed “High Cat Lady of Reno” with four mischievous cats
Ready for a thrilling read? Snag Lock & Mori and dive into Heather W. Petty’s world of suspense and secrets!