Picture a Michigan storyteller who turned PTA meetings into thrilling whodunits—meet Laura Alden! Known for her cozy mystery novels, Alden crafts suspenseful tales with relatable characters, earning a devoted fan base. Her knack for blending everyday life with clever plots has made her a standout in the genre, inviting readers to curl up with a good mystery.
Writing as both Laura Alden and Laurie Cass, she’s penned beloved series like the Beth Kennedy mysteries and the Bookmobile Cat Mystery series. From her geology roots to her literary success, Alden’s journey is as inspiring as her stories, proving it’s never too late to chase your passion.
The Making of Laura Alden
Laura Alden grew up in Grand Haven, Michigan, where summers meant picking blueberries and winters involved ski slope tumbles. She graduated from Eastern Michigan University in the 1980s with a Bachelor of Science in geology, a field she left largely unused. After years in management, Alden found herself bored in a low-responsibility job. A spark ignited when she stumbled upon a writing mantra: 'Reasons or results?' Framed by her computer, it pushed her to start writing. Thirteen years later, in 2010, her debut novel, Murder at the PTA, hit shelves, launching her cozy mystery career.
Laura Alden’s Unforgettable Stories
Alden’s cozy mysteries are like a warm cup of tea with a twist of suspense. Her Beth Kennedy series, set in the fictional town of Rynwood, Wisconsin, follows a single mom and bookstore owner navigating PTA drama and murder. Murder at the PTA (2010), an Agatha Award finalist for Best First Novel, introduces Beth as she solves a principal’s murder. Foul Play at the PTA (2011) deepens the intrigue with a parent’s strangling, while Plotting at the PTA (2012) tackles a suspicious death, weaving personal fears into the mystery. Poison at the PTA (2014) rounds out the series with high stakes and heartfelt moments.
Writing as Laurie Cass, Alden’s Bookmobile Cat Mystery series features librarian Minnie Hamilton and her cat, Eddie, solving crimes from a bookmobile. Starting with Lending a Paw (2013), the series blends feline charm with clever plotting, delighting animal-loving mystery fans. Alden’s style shines through her witty dialogue, relatable heroines, and small-town settings, making her books perfect for readers craving light yet gripping tales.
Her stories stand out for their emotional depth and community focus. Whether it’s Beth’s bookstore or Minnie’s bookmobile, Alden creates cozy worlds where ordinary people become amateur sleuths, proving anyone can unravel a mystery with courage and curiosity.
Why Laura Alden Matters
Laura Alden’s impact lies in her ability to make cozy mysteries feel fresh and relatable. Her heroines—busy moms and librarians—resonate with readers who see themselves in their struggles and triumphs. By setting her stories in familiar settings like PTAs and libraries, she transforms the mundane into the extraordinary, inviting readers to find adventure in everyday life. Her Agatha Award nomination and loyal following underscore her influence in the cozy mystery genre, where she’s celebrated for her engaging plots and warm characters.
Alden’s journey from geologist to author also inspires aspiring writers, showing that persistence and passion can lead to success. Her books continue to charm readers, offering escapism and heart in equal measure.
- Pen Names: Laura Alden, Laurie Cass
- Key Works: Murder at the PTA (2010), Lending a Paw (2013)
- Award: Agatha Award finalist for Best First Novel (2010)
- Hobbies: Reading, skiing, gardening, singing in church choir
Ready to dive into a cozy mystery? Snag Murder at the PTA or Lending a Paw and let Laura Alden’s charming world of suspense sweep you away!