Picture a Canadian scientist by day and a master of thrilling crime fiction by night—meet Jen J. Danna! With a knack for blending forensic science with heart-pounding mysteries, Danna has carved a unique niche in the literary world. Her collaboration with Ann Vanderlaan has produced gripping series like the Abbott and Lowell Forensic Mysteries and the FBI K-9s thrillers, captivating readers with authentic science and suspense.
Born in Burlington, Ontario, Danna’s journey from lab coats to bestsellers is as fascinating as her novels. Her infectious disease research informs her writing, giving her stories a rare authenticity that sets her apart in the crime fiction genre.
The Making of Jen J. Danna
Jen J. Danna’s path to authorship began in Burlington, Ontario, where her love for mysteries was sparked by her mother, a lifelong fan of the genre. Armed with a B.A. in Biology from McMaster University, Danna spent over 30 years researching infectious diseases at a cutting-edge Canadian university. Her scientific background became the backbone of her writing, infusing her stories with meticulous detail. In 2007, a chance online encounter with Ann Vanderlaan, a retired scientist and dog trainer, ignited a partnership that would birth two acclaimed mystery series. Their shared passion for authentic storytelling set the stage for Danna’s literary success.
Jen J. Danna’s Unforgettable Stories
Danna’s novels, co-authored with Vanderlaan, are a masterclass in blending science and suspense. The Abbott and Lowell Forensic Mysteries, launched with Dead, Without a Stone to Tell It in 2013, follow forensic anthropologist Dr. Matt Lowell and Massachusetts State Police Trooper Leigh Abbott as they solve chilling cases using cutting-edge science. Each book, like A Flame in the Wind of Death, explores unique themes—think Prohibition-era murders or Salem’s witchcraft history—woven with forensic precision.
Under the pseudonym Sara Driscoll, Danna and Vanderlaan created the FBI K-9s series, starring Special Agent Meg Jennings and her search-and-rescue dog, Hawk. Titles like Lone Wolf and No Man’s Land showcase the duo’s ability to craft high-stakes thrillers grounded in the real-world expertise of K-9 units. Danna’s writing style is crisp, immersive, and educational, often opening chapters with forensic or historical terms that enrich the narrative. Her blog, Skeleton Keys, further showcases her expertise, earning accolades as a top forensic resource.
Recent works, like Echoes of Memory, a standalone thriller, and the NYPD Negotiators series, highlight Danna’s versatility. Her ability to pivot between series while maintaining scientific rigor and emotional depth keeps readers hooked.
Why Jen J. Danna Matters
Jen J. Danna’s impact lies in her ability to make forensic science accessible and thrilling. Her novels rival those of Kathy Reichs and Patricia Cornwell, offering a fresh take on the genre with strong female leads and diverse settings. Her blog, Skeleton Keys, bridges science and fiction, educating readers on topics like DNA profiling and skeletal analysis. As a member of the Crime Writers of Canada, Danna inspires aspiring authors, proving that passion and expertise can create unforgettable stories. Her shift from scientist to full-time writer underscores her dedication to storytelling that entertains and informs.
- Born: Burlington, Ontario, Canada
- Key Works: Abbott and Lowell Forensic Mysteries, FBI K-9s series, Echoes of Memory
- Notable Blog: Skeleton Keys, a top forensic resource
- Pseudonym: Sara Driscoll (with Ann Vanderlaan)
Ready to dive into a world of forensic thrills? Snag Dead, Without a Stone to Tell It or Lone Wolf and experience Jen J. Danna’s electrifying crime fiction!