Picture an American storyteller who whisked readers to the charming, murder-laden lanes of 1920s England—meet Jessica Ellicott! With her Beryl and Edwina Mystery series, Ellicott spins cozy historical mysteries that blend wit, suspense, and post-World War I village life. Her debut, Murder in an English Village, nabbed an Agatha Award nomination, proving she’s a master of crafting tales that feel like a warm cup of tea spiked with intrigue.
Ellicott, a New England resident, infuses her stories with a love for fountain pens, Mini Coopers, and the quirky charm of British countryside settings. Her knack for pairing unlikely sleuths—an adventurous American and a prim Brit—has won hearts and starred reviews, making her a standout in the cozy mystery genre.
The Making of Jessica Ellicott
Little is known about Jessica Ellicott’s early life, but her passion for storytelling shines through her multifaceted career. Writing under pseudonyms like Jessie Crockett and Jessica Estevao, she honed her craft with contemporary and historical mysteries before launching the Beryl and Edwina series. A New Englander through and through, Ellicott’s love for historical fiction and British culture likely sparked her fascination with post-war England’s social dynamics. Her eclectic hobbies—knitting wool socks and speaking Portuguese with gleeful disregard for grammar—hint at a creative spirit that thrives on blending the traditional with the unexpected.
Jessica Ellicott’s Unforgettable Stories
Ellicott’s Beryl and Edwina Mystery series, starting with Murder in an English Village (2017), introduces readers to Beryl Helliwell, a bold American adventuress, and Edwina Davenport, a proper British spinster. Set in the fictional Walmsley Parva, the duo tackles murders and village secrets with humor and grit. The debut novel, praised for its tight plot and Agatha Christie-esque charm, follows their investigation into a maid’s death and a missing Land Army girl, earning an Agatha Award nod.
Subsequent books like Murder Flies the Coop (2018) and Murder Through the English Post (2022) deepen the duo’s partnership, weaving in themes of post-war recovery, women’s independence, and class tensions. Ellicott’s style is light yet layered, balancing cozy village vibes with sharp social commentary. Her latest, Murder at an English Séance (2024), sees Beryl and Edwina unraveling a psychic’s deadly scheme, showcasing Ellicott’s knack for fresh, engaging plots.
Ellicott’s writing sparkles with historical detail—think tweed skirts, pigeon-racing clubs, and gin fizzes—while her heroines’ banter keeps the tone playful. Fans of Frances Brody or Kerry Greenwood will adore her ability to make murder feel downright delightful.
Why Jessica Ellicott Matters
Jessica Ellicott has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre by blending historical accuracy with irresistible charm. Her stories celebrate women’s resilience in a post-war world, spotlighting unlikely heroines who defy societal norms. The Beryl and Edwina series not only entertains but also subtly explores the scars of war and the power of friendship, resonating with readers who crave substance beneath the coziness.
With starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and a loyal fanbase, Ellicott’s influence grows, proving that even a quiet village can harbor stories that echo far beyond its borders. Her work invites readers to savor the past while cheering for women who rewrite their futures.
- Resides in northern New England with her family and a precocious poodle named Sam.
- Debut novel, Murder in an English Village, nominated for an Agatha Award in 2017.
- Writes under pseudonyms Jessie Crockett and Jessica Estevao for other mystery series.
- Obsessed with fountain pens, Mini Coopers, and throwing lively parties.
About Jessica Ellicott
Snag Murder in an English Village and dive into Jessica Ellicott’s delightful world of cozy mysteries—perfect for a rainy day with a cuppa!