Picture a British storyteller who whisks you to the glittering 1920s, where jazz hums and mysteries unfold—meet L.B. Hathaway! This Cambridge-educated author has carved a niche in historical cozy mysteries with her beloved Posie Parker series. With a lawyer’s precision and a historian’s heart, Hathaway crafts tales that blend meticulous research with feisty heroines, earning her a devoted following among Agatha Christie fans.
Her novels, set against the backdrop of post-World War I Britain, capture the era’s reckless glamour and shadowy secrets. Whether it’s a murder in a London nightclub or a Venetian palazzo, Hathaway’s stories promise intrigue and charm. Let’s dive into her journey, from legal briefs to bestselling books, and discover why her mysteries are a must-read.
The Making of L.B. Hathaway
Born in Britain, L.B. Hathaway’s path to authorship was anything but ordinary. A history enthusiast, she studied at Cambridge University, immersing herself in the Tudors and English heritage. Her decade-long career as a lawyer at Lincoln’s Inn in London sharpened her analytical mind, but her heart belonged to the Golden Age of Crime. Inspired by Agatha Christie, she traded courtroom dramas for fictional whodunits, becoming a full-time writer. Her love for detective novels and historical detail became the bedrock of her storytelling.
L.B. Hathaway’s Unforgettable Stories
Hathaway’s Posie Parker series, launched in 2014 with Murder Offstage, introduces Posie, a spirited private detective navigating 1920s London. In this debut, Posie tackles a jewel theft and a murder, dodging danger in glamorous nightclubs. The series’ third book, Murder at Maypole Manor (2016), traps Posie in a snowbound mansion, unraveling a killer’s motives among eccentric guests. The Saltwater Murder (2019) sees her investigating a lawyer’s bizarre death in Whitley Bay, blending seaside settings with dark secrets.
Hathaway’s style is a delightful mix of cozy charm and intricate plotting. Her novels evoke the 1920s’ hedonistic spirit—think flapper dresses and jazz—while grounding readers in historical authenticity, from Lyons tea shops to the 1924 Olympics. Posie, with her wit and tenacity, feels like a friend you’d want by your side. Each book stands alone, but the series’ chronological arc deepens the characters, making it a treat for binge-readers.
The series, now spanning over 16 books, including Murder and the Scent of Nutmeg (2024), showcases Hathaway’s knack for fresh mysteries. Her settings vary from Cambridge to Tuscany, keeping readers guessing with twists that echo Christie’s genius without slipping into pastiche.
Why L.B. Hathaway Matters
Hathaway’s impact lies in her ability to revive the Golden Age mystery for modern readers. Her meticulous research and vibrant characters bring the 1920s to life, offering escapism with substance. Fans praise her for crafting strong female leads like Posie, who defy the era’s constraints, resonating with readers seeking empowering heroines. Her Amazon bestsellers have cultivated a global readership, proving cozy mysteries remain timeless.
Beyond her novels, Hathaway’s transition from law to literature inspires aspiring writers. Her passion for history and crime fiction shines through, making her a standout in a crowded genre. As she plans a 1940s spinoff, her storytelling legacy continues to grow.
- Studied history at Cambridge University.
- Worked as a lawyer at Lincoln’s Inn for nearly a decade.
- Key works: Murder Offstage, Murder at Maypole Manor, The Saltwater Murder.
- Interests: Tudor history, downhill skiing, strong tea.
About L.B. Hathaway
Ready to step into the 1920s? Snag Murder Offstage and dive into L.B. Hathaway’s dazzling world of cozy crime!