Picture a British storyteller who swapped retail for riveting mysteries, crafting tales that have captivated millions—meet M.A. Comley! This New York Times bestselling author, now thriving in France, turned her writing hobby into a global phenomenon, selling over four million books worldwide. From gritty crime novels to heartwarming romance novellas, Comley’s stories pulse with suspense and emotion, earning her a devoted fanbase.
Her journey from rejection to self-publishing stardom is as thrilling as her plots. With a knack for fast-paced thrillers and a life reshaped by a bold move across the Channel, Comley’s story is one of grit, heart, and literary triumph.
The Making of M.A. Comley
Born in Luton, Bedfordshire, Mel Comley grew up with a passion for storytelling but spent years in retail before chasing her dreams. In 2002, she and her mother made a life-changing move to France, renovating houses and embracing a fresh start. It was here, inspired by a creative writing course, that Comley began writing in earnest. Despite early rejections, her determination shone through. She tirelessly promoted her first novel, Cruel Justice, on writing platforms, earning a gold star and a positive review from HarperCollins—though they didn’t sign her. Undeterred, she embraced self-publishing, leveraging Amazon and Smashwords to launch her career.
M.A. Comley’s Unforgettable Stories
Comley’s bibliography is a treasure trove of mystery and thriller novels, with her Justice series leading the charge. Cruel Justice (2011), the first in the Lorne Simpkins series, introduces a tenacious detective tackling brutal crimes, blending gritty realism with emotional depth. The series, now spanning over 18 novels and several novellas, showcases Comley’s signature fast-paced style, often dipping into the darker corners of human nature. Her DI Sally Parker series, starting with Wrong Place, offers another gripping saga, with intricate plots and relatable characters that keep readers hooked.
Beyond crime, Comley’s versatility shines in her romance novellas like A Time to Heal, a poignant tale based on a true story, and her cozy mystery Carmel Cove series, including Murder at the Hotel, which delivers lighter, charming whodunits. Her writing, inspired by idols like James Patterson and Karin Slaughter, balances vivid violence with heartfelt relationships, reflecting the complexities of the real world. Collaborations, such as the Deception series with Linda S. Prather, further highlight her ability to weave suspense across genres.
Comley’s stories resonate because they mirror life’s highs and lows—whether it’s Lorne Simpkins escaping an abusive past or a cozy sleuth solving a small-town murder. Her ability to juggle multiple series while maintaining freshness keeps fans eagerly awaiting each release.
Why M.A. Comley Matters
M.A. Comley’s impact extends beyond her page-turners. As a self-publishing pioneer, she’s a beacon for aspiring authors, proving that persistence can outshine rejection. Her success on platforms like Kindle Unlimited, where she’s an All-Star author, underscores her influence in the digital publishing revolution. With over four million copies sold, her stories have reached readers worldwide, offering escapist thrills and emotional resonance. Comley’s move to France and her advocacy for rescue animals, like her beloved Labrador Dex, add a relatable warmth to her public persona, endearing her to fans.
- Pen Name: M.A. Comley (Mel Comley)
- Key Works: Cruel Justice, Wrong Place, A Time to Heal, Murder at the Hotel
- Awards: New York Times, USA Today, Amazon Top 20 Bestseller
- Fun Fact: She cares for her elderly mother and walks her rescue pup Dex in France.
Ready to lose yourself in a thrilling mystery or a touching romance? Snag Cruel Justice or A Time to Heal and dive into M.A. Comley’s gripping world!