Picture a California dreamer who weaves mystery and romance into page-turning tales—meet Maris Soule! Born in 1939, this American author has captivated readers with her knack for blending suspense, love, and relatable characters. From dog sled races to small-town secrets, Soule’s stories transport you to worlds where everyday people face extraordinary challenges, earning her a loyal following and a lasting place in contemporary literature.
With over 30 published works, including 25 romances, six mysteries, and two short stories, Soule’s journey from a high school teacher to a celebrated writer is as inspiring as her novels. Her resilience and passion shine through, proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
The Making of Maris Soule
Born in Oakland, California, on June 19, 1939, Maris Soule grew up with a love for stories and art. She earned a B.A. from U.C. Davis and a Lifetime Teaching Credential from U.C. Berkeley, teaching art and math in California and Michigan high schools. While pursuing a master’s in art history at U.C. Santa Barbara, she met her husband, a redhead with blue eyes who swept her off her feet. They married in 1968 and moved to Michigan in 1970, where Soule’s writing dreams took root.
Soule’s writing began as a hobby, inspired by her teenage love for horse stories and a romance novel about wine that left her wanting more. It wasn’t until her forties, after an agent recognized her talent, that she embraced writing as a career. This pivotal moment transformed her from a “dabbler” to a dedicated author, determined to craft stories that resonate with readers.
Maris Soule’s Unforgettable Stories
Soule’s novels are a delightful mix of mystery, romance, and suspense, set in diverse settings like the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, Search and Rescue missions, and quiet towns hiding dark secrets. Her writing style is straightforward yet gripping, with relatable characters—think everyday neighbors with hidden depths—that draw readers in. Her ability to weave thrilling plots with emotional connections has earned her accolades, including two RITA finalist nods from the Romance Writers of America.
Key works include The Crows (2007), the first in her P.J. Benson Mystery series, where a CPA-turned-sleuth navigates murder and danger with her Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy. A Killer Past (2015) introduces Mary Harrington, a grandmother with a shocking criminal history, praised for its twists and fast pace. Echoes of Terror (2017), a thriller set in Skagway, Alaska, won first place in the 2017 Florida Writers Association’s Royal Palm Literary Competition. Haunted (2012) blends romance and suspense, perfect for spooky season reads.
Soule’s stories often feature animals, from sled dogs to horses, reflecting her love for Rhodesian Ridgebacks, which she has raised and shown. Her settings and themes—love, trust, and uncovering truth—resonate with readers who crave both heart and thrills.
Why Maris Soule Matters
Maris Soule’s impact lies in her ability to craft stories that feel personal yet universal. Her characters, flawed and familiar, mirror the struggles and triumphs of everyday life, making her novels both escapist and relatable. Her success as a late-blooming author inspires aspiring writers, showing that passion and perseverance can lead to a prolific career. Awards from the Romance Writers of America and Wisconsin Romance Writers, along with reader praise for books like A Killer Past, underscore her influence in romance and mystery genres.
Soule’s legacy also extends to her vibrant life—splitting time between Michigan and Florida, painting, cooking (sometimes burning meals!), and cherishing family. Her stories continue to entertain and inspire, inviting readers to explore the unexpected in the ordinary.
- Born: June 19, 1939, Oakland, California
- Key Works: The Crows, A Killer Past, Echoes of Terror, Haunted
- Awards: Two-time RITA finalist, 2017 Royal Palm Literary Award
- Fun Fact: Soule co-owns a pocket trawler with her husband
Snag The Crows or A Killer Past and dive into Maris Soule’s thrilling world of mystery and romance!