Picture a storyteller weaving tales where Wyoming’s rugged mountains whisper secrets of the Old West—meet Loretta Jackson! Alongside her sister Vickie Britton, this Arkansas-born author has crafted over 40 novels and 70 short stories, blending modern mysteries with the timeless allure of the American West. Her High Country Mystery series, starring Sheriff Jeff McQuede, captures the heart of small-town Wyoming, making her a beloved voice in Western crime fiction.
With a knack for vivid settings and meticulous research, Jackson doesn’t just write stories—she brings the spirit of the West to life. From dusty trails to ancient artifacts, her work is a love letter to history, Native American culture, and the thrill of a good whodunit. Let’s dive into the world of Loretta Jackson!
The Making of Loretta Jackson
Born in Magnolia, Arkansas, as the third of five siblings in an army family, Loretta Jackson grew up on the move, soaking in the diverse landscapes of the United States. This nomadic childhood sparked a lifelong love for travel and storytelling. After graduating from the University of Kansas with a degree in Creative Writing, she teamed up with her sister Vickie Britton, forming a dynamic writing duo. Their early works, including Gothic and romantic suspense, laid the foundation for their shift to mysteries, inspired by their fascination with the American West.
Jackson’s time teaching Sioux students at Crazy Horse High on South Dakota’s Pine Ridge Reservation deepened her connection to Native American culture, while her sister’s life in Laramie, Wyoming, fueled their shared passion for Western settings. Together, they traveled globally—Peru, China, Russia—but always returned to the high plains and rugged peaks of the U.S. for inspiration.
Loretta Jackson’s Unforgettable Stories
Loretta Jackson and Vickie Britton’s bibliography is a treasure trove of mysteries, with the High Country Mystery series standing out as their crown jewel. Featuring Sheriff Jeff McQuede, a modern-day sleuth with a Wild West namesake, the series kicks off with Murder in Black and White, where a seemingly simple robbery unravels into a complex web of deceit. Fans praise its fast-paced plots and twists, with one reviewer calling Whispers of the Stones a must-read for those missing Tony Hillerman’s Four Corners mysteries.
Beyond the High Country series, Jackson shines in the Ardis Cole archaeological mysteries, blending history and suspense. In The Curse of Senmut, archaeologist Ardis unravels ancient secrets, showcasing Jackson’s knack for merging research with riveting narratives. The Luck of the Draw Western series, including The Devil’s Game, adds a gritty edge, appealing to fans of classic Westerns. Her style—vivid, suspenseful, and steeped in historical detail—draws comparisons to C.J. Box and Craig Johnson, with a unique focus on small-town dynamics and Native American heritage.
Jackson’s stories thrive on their settings, which act almost as characters. Whether it’s a Wyoming ghost town or a Peruvian ruin, she and Britton visit every location, ensuring authenticity that resonates with readers. Their collaborative process, honed over decades, balances Jackson’s historical expertise with Britton’s flair for character-driven drama.
Why Loretta Jackson Matters
Loretta Jackson’s impact lies in her ability to preserve the American West’s fading legends while crafting mysteries that keep readers guessing. Her work bridges past and present, offering a window into Wyoming’s rugged soul and the complexities of Native American history. By centering stories around small-town sheriffs and archaeologists, she elevates everyday heroes, making her books relatable yet thrilling.
Her collaboration with the United Sioux tribe to document their culture underscores her commitment to authenticity, earning her respect among readers and communities alike. Though not a household name, Jackson’s dedicated fanbase cherishes her as a storyteller who keeps the West’s spirit alive, one mystery at a time.
- Born: Magnolia, Arkansas
- Key Works: High Country Mystery series, Ardis Cole series, Luck of the Draw series
- Fun Fact: Jackson and Britton have traveled to every setting in their novels, from Wyoming to Peru!
Ready to saddle up for a thrilling ride? Grab Murder in Black and White and dive into Loretta Jackson’s captivating world of Western mysteries!