Picture a Texan storyteller who blends birdwatching with murder mysteries and faith with science—meet Jan Dunlap! A mother, speaker, and author, Dunlap has charmed readers with her diverse portfolio, from the heartwarming memoir Saved by Gracie to the suspenseful Archangels series. Her knack for weaving nature, spirituality, and cozy mysteries into compelling narratives makes her a unique voice in contemporary literature.
With a BA in English and two master’s degrees—one in Theology, another in English Studies—Dunlap’s stories reflect her deep curiosity about the world. Whether she’s crafting a whodunit or exploring divine mysteries, her work invites readers to see life through a lens of wonder and wit.
The Making of Jan Dunlap
Born and raised in small-town Texas, Jan Dunlap’s early life was shaped by wide-open spaces and a love for storytelling. Her academic journey took her from Regis University in Denver to St. Catherine University and Minnesota State University-Mankato, where she honed her skills in English and Theology. Before becoming a full-time author, she taught college English and wrote a humor column, sharpening her knack for observing human quirks. Her time in Puerto Rico and Mexico, where she owned a restaurant-art gallery, added global flair to her perspective, influencing her vibrant narratives.
Jan Dunlap’s Unforgettable Stories
Dunlap’s literary range is as vast as the Texas Hill Country she calls home. Her Bob White Birder Murder Mystery series, starting with The Boreal Owl Murder, follows a birdwatching high school counselor who stumbles into crimes. These cozy mysteries, infused with environmental themes and humor, have earned nominations for Minnesota Book Awards, delighting fans with their wit and vivid settings.
Her memoir Saved by Gracie: How a Rough-and-Tumble Rescue Dog Dragged Me Back to Health, Happiness, and God is an international bestseller. It chronicles how a rescue dog helped Dunlap overcome anxiety, blending humor, heart, and spiritual insight. The Archangels series, beginning with Heaven’s Gate, dives into Christian suspense, exploring science and faith through thrilling plots. Dunlap’s ability to merge complex themes with accessible storytelling sets her apart.
Her writing style is warm and engaging, often laced with humor and grounded in her love for nature and spirituality. Whether she’s describing a Minnesota forest or a theological debate, Dunlap’s prose feels like a conversation with a wise, witty friend.
Why Jan Dunlap Matters
Jan Dunlap’s work resonates because it speaks to the human experience—faith, healing, and the beauty of the natural world. Her mysteries entertain while subtly educating readers about conservation, and her spiritual works inspire reflection. By blending genres, she’s carved a niche that appeals to mystery lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking meaning. Her influence extends beyond books; as a speaker, she connects with audiences, sharing insights from her multifaceted life.
In a world of formulaic stories, Dunlap’s originality shines. Her ability to find the extraordinary in the everyday—whether a bird’s call or a dog’s loyalty—makes her a storyteller worth discovering.
- Born: Small-town Texas
- Key Works: Saved by Gracie, The Boreal Owl Murder, Heaven’s Gate
- Awards: Nominations for Minnesota Book Awards
- Fun Fact: She’s an avid birder who tweets about mysteries @BirderMurder!
Ready to explore a world where faith, nature, and mystery collide? Snag Saved by Gracie or dive into the Bob White Birder Mysteries for a cozy, captivating read!