Picture a storyteller who spun the glitz and grit of 1930s New York City into captivating mysteries—meet L.A. Chandlar! This American author has enchanted readers with her award-winning Art Deco Mystery series, blending historical fiction with pulse-pounding suspense. But Chandlar’s magic doesn’t stop at the page—she’s also a dynamic motivational speaker, inspiring audiences to embrace creativity through her Fight To Keep the Creativity Alive series.
With a knack for vivid storytelling and a passion for the vibrant Art Deco era, Chandlar has carved a unique niche in the literary world. Her tales of gangsters, mayors, and secrets have earned accolades, while her workshops spark imagination far beyond her books. Ready to dive into her world?
The Making of L.A. Chandlar
Born in 1971 in Metro Detroit, Laurie Chandlar grew up with a love for stories and a curiosity about the world. She double-majored in English and Public Relations at the University of Michigan, where she met her husband. After working in PR for General Motors, Chandlar took a bold leap in 2001, moving to New York City just weeks after 9/11. The city’s resilience inspired her, echoing the 1930s spirit of grit and glamour that would later define her work. Her early career included managing a rock band and writing for a global nonprofit, experiences that fueled her creative spark.
L.A. Chandlar’s Unforgettable Stories
Chandlar’s Art Deco Mystery series, set in 1930s New York City, is her crown jewel. Featuring Mayor Fiorello La Guardia and his spirited aide Lane Sanders, the series weaves historical facts with fictional intrigue. Her debut, The Silver Gun (2017), introduces Lane navigating gangsters and a mysterious past, earning praise for its vivid depiction of Depression-era Manhattan. The Gold Pawn (2018) deepens the saga, connecting Lane’s childhood trauma to a shadowy crime network, and was nominated for an Agatha Award. The Pearl Dagger (2019), a Suspense Magazine Book of the Year, takes Lane to London, unraveling an international syndicate. Chandlar’s style blends cozy mystery charm with noir-inspired suspense, rich with 1930s details—think speakeasies, jazz, and Art Deco elegance.
Beyond mysteries, Chandlar’s Fight To Keep the Creativity Alive series, including Brass (2015), explores creativity’s transformative power. Written for her workshops, it’s a rallying cry for anyone feeling stuck, offering practical tools to live more fully. Her standalone novella, The Christmas Journalist, blends holiday traditions with human-interest tales, showcasing her versatility.
Why L.A. Chandlar Matters
Chandlar’s impact lies in her ability to breathe life into history while sparking creativity in others. Her Art Deco Mystery series doesn’t just entertain—it immerses readers in a pivotal era, highlighting women’s resilience and innovation. As a speaker, she’s addressed diverse audiences, from the United Nations to corporate groups, demystifying creativity with insights drawn from psychology and her own research. Her workshops and lectures inspire people to fight for their creative passions, making her a beacon for aspiring artists and professionals alike. Awards like the GANYC Apple and nominations for Agatha and Lefty honors underscore her literary influence.
- Born: 1971, Metro Detroit, Michigan
- Key Works: The Silver Gun, The Gold Pawn, The Pearl Dagger, Brass
- Awards: Suspense Magazine’s Crimson Scribe, GANYC Apple Award
Snag The Silver Gun and dive into L.A. Chandlar’s dazzling world of mystery and creativity!