Picture a storyteller who serves up murder with a side of Hollywood glitz and a sprinkle of humor—meet Jerrilyn Farmer! This award-winning American author has charmed readers with her cozy Madeline Bean mysteries, blending suspense, wit, and Tinseltown flair. From her roots as a TV writer to her role as a beloved novelist and UCLA instructor, Farmer’s journey is as captivating as her stories.
The Making of Jerrilyn Farmer
Born on March 10, 1950, in Lincolnwood, Illinois, Jerrilyn Farmer grew up with a flair for the dramatic. She majored in Acting and English at Northern Illinois University, dreaming of a stage career. After moving to Los Angeles, she pivoted to writing for game shows like Jeopardy! and Supermarket Sweep, honing her knack for clever, fast-paced storytelling. This vibrant Hollywood backdrop would later inspire her novels, where glamour and intrigue collide.
Jerrilyn Farmer’s Unforgettable Stories
Farmer’s Madeline Bean series, launched with Sympathy for the Devil in 1998, follows a savvy Hollywood caterer who juggles gourmet dishes and amateur sleuthing. The debut novel, nominated for Agatha and Edgar awards and winner of the Macavity Award, dazzled with its sharp humor and insider Hollywood vibes. Immaculate Reception (1999), a Lefty Award nominee, sees Madeline navigating a papal visit turned murderous, while Dim Sum Dead (2001) weaves mah-jongg and old Hollywood secrets into a delectable mystery. Her collaboration with Joan Rivers, Murder at the Academy Awards (2009), brought red-carpet chaos to life with biting wit.
Farmer’s style is a delightful cocktail of cozy mystery and comedic sparkle. Her novels brim with vivid characters—like aging divas and quirky caterers—and settings that pulse with Los Angeles energy. Themes of friendship, romance, and clever problem-solving shine through, making her books a go-to for readers craving lighthearted suspense with a gourmet twist.
Why Jerrilyn Farmer Matters
Jerrilyn Farmer’s impact lies in her ability to elevate the cozy mystery genre with humor and Hollywood allure. Her Madeline Bean series has garnered a global fanbase, with translations in multiple languages and praise from authors like Sue Grafton. As a UCLA Extension instructor, she’s mentored aspiring writers, sharing techniques to craft compelling mysteries. Farmer’s storytelling, rooted in her TV writing experience, continues to inspire readers and writers to embrace creativity with a playful edge.
About Jerrilyn Farmer
- Born: March 10, 1950, Lincolnwood, Illinois
- Key Works: Sympathy for the Devil, Immaculate Reception, Dim Sum Dead, Murder at the Academy Awards
- Awards: Macavity Award (1998), multiple Agatha and Lefty nominations
- Fun Fact: Wrote for game shows like Jeopardy! before becoming a novelist
Snag Sympathy for the Devil and dive into Jerrilyn Farmer’s deliciously witty world of cozy mysteries!