Picture a Texan storyteller weaving mysteries set in the foggy lanes of 1930s England—meet Julianna Deering! Known for her captivating Drew Farthering Mystery series, Deering, also writing as DeAnna Julie Dodson, blends her love for British history, classic whodunits, and Christian faith into tales that keep readers guessing. With a knack for crafting intricate plots and charming characters, she’s carved a unique niche in historical mystery fiction.
A fifth-generation Texan, Deering’s journey from certified public accountant to acclaimed author is as intriguing as her novels. Her stories, infused with wit and heart, transport readers to a bygone era, earning praise for their Agatha Christie-esque flair. Ready to dive into her world of sleuthing and suspense? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this delightful wordsmith!
The Making of Julianna Deering
Born and raised in Texas, Julianna Deering grew up with a passion for storytelling, nurtured by her love for theater, film, and books. A graduate of the University of Texas at Dallas with a degree in business administration, she initially pursued a career as a CPA, crunching numbers by day. But her heart belonged to the page, where her fascination with British history and Golden Age mysteries by Dorothy Sayers and Agatha Christie took root. This blend of analytical precision and creative flair shaped her transition to writing, leading her to craft novels that balance meticulous plotting with emotional depth.
Deering’s leap into authorship wasn’t just a career shift—it was a calling. Inspired by her Christian faith and a desire to tell stories of love, forgiveness, and triumph, she began writing under the pen name Julianna Deering, debuting with the Drew Farthering Mystery series in 2013. Living north of Dallas with her three spoiled cats, she balances writing with hobbies like quilting, cross-stitching, and cheering for NHL hockey.
Julianna Deering’s Unforgettable Stories
Deering’s Drew Farthering Mystery series, set in the elegant yet treacherous world of 1930s England, is her crowning achievement. The series follows Drew Farthering, a dashing amateur detective, and his American love interest, Madeline Parker, as they unravel murders with wit and tenacity. Deering’s novels are a love letter to the classic British cozy mystery, infused with Christian themes and a touch of romance.
The series kicks off with Rules of Murder (2013), where Drew stumbles upon a body at his family’s estate, sparking a thrilling investigation filled with red herrings. Death by the Book (2014) sees Drew tackling a string of cryptic murders, while Murder at the Mikado (2014) weaves theater and treachery into a gripping puzzle. Later entries like Dressed for Death (2016) and Murder on the Moor (2017) deepen the stakes, blending Regency flair and moody landscapes. Deering’s style—marked by period authenticity, playful dialogue, and intricate plots—has earned comparisons to Christie and Sayers, delighting fans of historical mysteries.
What sets Deering apart is her ability to weave faith and forgiveness into her stories without preaching. Her characters grapple with moral dilemmas, making her novels resonate with readers seeking both entertainment and inspiration. The series’ vivid settings, from Hampshire manors to Yorkshire moors, transport readers to a world where every clue counts.
Why Julianna Deering Matters
Julianna Deering has left a quiet but meaningful mark on the historical mystery genre. By blending the charm of Golden Age detective fiction with Christian values, she offers readers a fresh take on the cozy mystery. Her Drew Farthering series has garnered a loyal following, with fans praising its period authenticity and emotional depth. Reviews highlight her skill in crafting surprises that keep readers guessing until the final page, earning her a place alongside modern mystery authors.
Beyond her books, Deering’s journey from CPA to novelist inspires aspiring writers, proving that passion and persistence can redefine a career. Her ability to balance faith, history, and suspense makes her work a beacon for readers seeking stories that entertain and uplift. As a Texan telling British tales, she bridges cultures, inviting readers worldwide to lose themselves in her meticulously crafted mysteries.
- Pen Name: Julianna Deering (also DeAnna Julie Dodson)
- Key Works: Drew Farthering Mystery series (6 books, 2013–2017)
- Hobbies: Quilting, cross-stitching, watching NHL hockey
- Residence: North of Dallas, Texas
Ready for a cozy mystery with heart and intrigue? Snag Rules of Murder and step into Julianna Deering’s thrilling 1930s England!