Picture a sun-soaked island in Southwest Florida, where a storyteller weaves tales of mystery and adventure—meet Marty Ambrose! This American author, with a flair for crafting risk-taking heroes and heroines, has carved a niche in mystery, historical fiction, and memoir. From her vibrant Mango Bay Mystery series to her evocative Lord Byron Mysteries, Ambrose’s stories pulse with intrigue, humor, and heart, drawing readers into worlds where secrets unravel under palm trees or in 19th-century Italy.
With nearly two decades as a creative writing instructor and eight published novels, Ambrose blends her academic expertise with a storyteller’s zest. Her island home, shared with her husband, former news anchor Jim McLaughlin, and their Labrador puppy, Luna, inspires her vivid settings and dynamic characters. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this captivating author!
The Making of Marty Ambrose
Born with a passion for storytelling, Marty Ambrose honed her craft through years of dedication. She earned an M.Phil. from the University of York in England, immersing herself in 19th-century British literature, which later fueled her historical mysteries. Her career began with romance and mystery novels under pseudonyms like Martha Ambrose, but her true voice emerged in series like Mango Bay. Teaching creative writing at Southern New Hampshire University and Florida Southwestern State College, she inspired countless students while refining her own narrative style.
Ambrose’s move to a serene Florida island marked a turning point. Surrounded by mangroves and sandy shores, she found inspiration for her coastal mysteries. Her husband’s media background and their shared love for travel—especially to Italy for research—shaped her multifaceted career, blending teaching, writing, and exploration.
Marty Ambrose’s Unforgettable Stories
Ambrose’s Mango Bay Mystery series is a love letter to Florida’s quirky charm. In Peril in Paradise, readers meet Mallie Monroe, a free-spirited journalist navigating murder and mayhem on Coral Island. The fast-paced plot, laced with humor and eccentric characters, makes it a perfect beach read. Murder in the Mangroves, the third in the series, amps up the suspense as Mallie investigates a hidden body, juggling her career and a rekindled romance.
Her Lord Byron Mystery trilogy, starting with Claire’s Last Secret, transports readers to 19th-century Italy. Centered on Claire Clairmont, Mary Shelley’s stepsister, these historical mysteries weave real literary figures into thrilling narratives. A Shadowed Fate and Forever Past deepen the saga, earning starred reviews from Publishers Weekly for their seductive blend of regret and suspense. Ambrose’s style—crisp, character-driven, and rich with historical detail—sets her apart in both genres.
Her versatility shines in standalone works like A Forsaken Vow, a 2023 historical mystery with women’s fiction elements. Whether crafting a cozy mystery or a poignant historical tale, Ambrose’s stories celebrate resilience and the pursuit of truth, often with a touch of wit.
Why Marty Ambrose Matters
Marty Ambrose’s impact lies in her ability to bridge genres and eras, making history accessible and mysteries irresistible. Her Mango Bay series captures the spirit of Florida’s coastal communities, resonating with readers who crave escapist yet relatable tales. The Lord Byron Mysteries elevate her legacy, offering a fresh perspective on literary icons while appealing to historical fiction fans. Her work, recognized with a gold medal from the Florida Writers Association’s Literary Palm Awards, inspires aspiring writers through her teaching and workshops.
As a member of The Byron Society and the Historical Novel Society, Ambrose fosters a community of storytellers. Her readers cherish her for crafting worlds where bold women like Mallie and Claire face challenges with courage and charm. With plans for more travel and novels, her influence continues to grow.
- Key Works: Peril in Paradise, Murder in the Mangroves, Claire’s Last Secret, A Forsaken Vow
- Awards: Gold Medal, Florida Writers Association’s Literary Palm Awards
- Residence: Southwest Florida island with husband Jim McLaughlin and Labrador Luna
- Education: M.Phil., University of York, England
About Marty Ambrose
Ready to escape to a Florida island or 19th-century Italy? Grab Peril in Paradise or Claire’s Last Secret and dive into Marty Ambrose’s thrilling worlds of mystery and heart!