Picture a storyteller who spins cozy mysteries with a side of humor and a sprinkle of cultural charm—meet Maria DiRico! As the pen name of Ellen Byron, this award-winning American author crafts delightful tales set in the vibrant worlds of Louisiana and New York. From her Cajun Country Mysteries to her Catering Hall Mystery series, DiRico’s stories blend suspense, wit, and heart, captivating readers with every twist.
With a knack for creating quirky characters and immersive settings, DiRico has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre. Her journey from a Queens native to a celebrated novelist is as intriguing as her plots, proving that passion and perseverance can turn dreams into bestsellers. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the life and legacy of Maria DiRico!
The Making of Maria DiRico
Born in Queens, New York, Maria DiRico—aka Ellen Byron—grew up with a rich cultural tapestry. Her mother’s Italian-American heritage and her father’s ties to a low-level Jewish mobster who vanished in 1933 gave her a unique perspective. A graduate of Tulane University, Byron’s love for Louisiana’s vibrant culture sparked during her college years, later fueling her Cajun Country Mysteries. Before writing novels, she penned over 200 magazine articles, scripted TV comedies like Wings and Just Shoot Me!, and even worked as a cater-waiter for Martha Stewart—a gig she proudly mentions.
Byron’s pivot to mystery writing came after years of honing her storytelling craft. Inspired by icons like Agatha Christie and Jacqueline Winspear, she adopted the pseudonym Maria DiRico for her Catering Hall series, drawing on her Queens roots and family-run catering halls. Her debut novel, Plantation Shudders, marked her as a rising star in cozy mysteries, earning nominations for Agatha, Lefty, and Daphne awards.
Maria DiRico’s Unforgettable Stories
DiRico’s novels are a love letter to cozy mystery fans, blending humor, suspense, and cultural flair. Her Cajun Country Mystery series, written as Ellen Byron, kicks off with Plantation Shudders (2015), where Maggie Crozat unravels murders at her family’s Louisiana B&B. The series, spanning seven books, weaves Cajun traditions, mouthwatering recipes, and quirky locals into tightly plotted mysteries. Mardi Gras Murder (2018) won an Agatha Award for Best Contemporary Novel, cementing her reputation.
Under the Maria DiRico pseudonym, she launched the Catering Hall Mystery series with Here Comes the Body (2020). Set in Queens, the series follows Mia Carina, who navigates murders and mob connections at her family’s Belle View Banquet Manor. Books like Long Island Iced Tina showcase DiRico’s playful tone and knack for vivid settings, inspired by her family’s catering halls. Her writing sparkles with witty dialogue, relatable heroines, and plots that keep readers guessing.
DiRico’s style is a masterclass in cozy mystery: fast-paced, character-driven, and infused with cultural details. Whether it’s Louisiana’s bayous or New York’s bustling boroughs, her settings feel alive, inviting readers to savor the atmosphere as much as the story. Her ability to balance humor with suspense makes her books both heartwarming and thrilling.
Why Maria DiRico Matters
Maria DiRico’s impact lies in her ability to bring diverse cultures to the cozy mystery genre. Her Cajun Country Mysteries celebrate Louisiana’s heritage, while her Catering Hall series shines a light on Italian-American life in Queens. Fans adore her for creating relatable, strong female leads like Maggie and Mia, who tackle mysteries with grit and charm. With multiple Agatha and Lefty Awards, DiRico has elevated the genre, proving cozy mysteries can be both fun and profound.
Her work resonates with readers seeking escapist yet meaningful stories. By weaving real-world experiences—like her catering days and cultural roots—into her novels, DiRico offers a fresh take on the genre, inspiring aspiring writers to draw from their own lives. Her legacy is one of joy, connection, and the power of a good story.
- Born: Queens, New York
- Key Works: Cajun Country Mysteries, Catering Hall Mysteries
- Awards: Agatha Award (Best Contemporary Novel), multiple Lefty Awards (Best Humorous Mystery)
- Fun Fact: Worked as a cater-waiter for Martha Stewart
Snag Here Comes the Body or Plantation Shudders and dive into Maria DiRico’s cozy mystery magic! Whether you’re craving Cajun spice or New York sass, her stories promise a delightful escape.