Picture a Minnesota-born storyteller who swapped snowy winters for the sunlit cobblestone streets of San Miguel de Allende, weaving mysteries that pulse with humor and suspense—meet John Scherber! Since settling in Mexico in 2007, Scherber has crafted the beloved Murder in Mexico series, captivating readers with tales of art, antiques, and intrigue. His debut, Twenty Centavos, even caught Hollywood’s eye, with a TV series in the works.
With over 30 novels to his name, Scherber’s journey from a 37-year writing hiatus to a prolific author is as compelling as his stories. His work, blending fast-paced plots with vivid expatriate life, offers a window into Mexico’s charm and complexity, making him a standout voice in mystery fiction.
The Making of John Scherber
Born in Minnesota, John Scherber’s early career was far from the literary world. He ran successful businesses, from architectural design to restoring Victorian homes, before moving to San Miguel de Allende in 2005. A painting trip sparked inspiration, reigniting his passion for writing after decades. Influenced by masters like Tony Hillerman and Michael Connelly, Scherber found his niche in crafting mysteries that blend suspense with cultural richness.
Scherber’s relocation to Mexico was a turning point. The vibrant expatriate community and colonial charm of San Miguel de Allende became the backdrop for his stories, offering a fresh canvas for his creative revival. His ability to capture this setting has made his work resonate with readers worldwide.
John Scherber’s Unforgettable Stories
Scherber’s Murder in Mexico series, starring artist-detective Paul Zacher, is a cornerstone of his legacy. Twenty Centavos (2010) introduces Zacher, who investigates a bizarre antiques dealer’s murder, uncovering secrets amid San Miguel’s expatriate scene. The novel’s vivid settings and irreverent humor set the tone for the series, which now spans over 30 titles.
Brushwork, another standout, sees Zacher entangled in a former vice president’s murder, with evidence pointing to himself. The fast-paced plot and cultural details showcase Scherber’s knack for blending art and suspense. Lost in Chiapas takes readers to Mexico’s rugged south, exploring darker themes like cults and disappearances, praised for its immersive descriptions.
Beyond fiction, Scherber’s nonfiction, like San Miguel de Allende: A Place in the Heart, offers heartfelt insights into expatriate life. His style—neither highbrow nor lowbrow—delights with witty dialogue, quirky characters, and a deep love for Mexico’s history and culture, making each book a page-turner.
Why John Scherber Matters
John Scherber’s impact lies in his ability to bring San Miguel de Allende to life, offering readers a cultural passport to Mexico’s heart. His mysteries entertain while illuminating the expatriate experience, appealing to both cozy mystery fans and thriller enthusiasts. The optioning of Twenty Centavos for TV by Emmy-winning director Dorothy Lyman signals his growing influence, promising to introduce his world to new audiences.
Scherber’s work also fosters a sense of community among expatriates, capturing the joys and challenges of life abroad. His stories, rich with local flavor, inspire readers to explore Mexico’s hidden gems, cementing his role as a literary ambassador of San Miguel.
- Born: Minnesota, USA
- Key Works: Twenty Centavos, Brushwork, Lost in Chiapas, San Miguel de Allende: A Place in the Heart
- Notable Achievement: Twenty Centavos optioned for a TV series
Snag Twenty Centavos and dive into John Scherber’s thrilling world of mystery and Mexican charm!