Imagine a Montana artist who paints vivid landscapes with both a brush and words—meet Mary Ann Cherry! This multi-talented mystery writer and professional painter weaves her love for art into the gripping Jessie O’Bourne Art Mysteries series. Set against the rugged beauty of rural Montana, Cherry’s stories blend suspense, artistic insight, and a touch of humor, captivating readers who crave a unique twist on the classic whodunit.
Raised near the Yellowstone River, Cherry’s life is as colorful as her novels. Her knack for storytelling and her deep connection to the Western wilderness make her a standout in the cozy mystery genre. Let’s dive into the world of this artist-turned-author and discover what makes her work so special.
The Making of Mary Ann Cherry
Born and raised in rural Montana, Mary Ann Cherry grew up surrounded by the sweeping landscapes that would later inspire her art and writing. Her parents, avid fans of Western artist Charlie Russell, sparked her early interest in painting. By age eight, Cherry was wielding a paintbrush, while her father sketched horses and rattlesnakes for her on newsprint. This creative upbringing laid the foundation for her dual career as an artist and novelist.
Cherry’s path to writing was less direct. A professional artist with works in museum collections, she honed her craft through national art shows and teaching workshops. Her love for storytelling emerged later, fueled by her experiences and the vibrant characters of her Montana roots. Writing became a new canvas, where she could paint with words, leading to the creation of her beloved Jessie O’Bourne series.
Mary Ann Cherry’s Unforgettable Stories
Cherry’s Jessie O’Bourne Art Mysteries series is a love letter to art and Montana’s wild beauty. The series follows Jessie O’Bourne, a talented artist and amateur detective who solves complex mysteries with her sharp wit and trusty tomcat, Jack. Each book is infused with Cherry’s artistic expertise, offering readers glimpses into painting techniques alongside thrilling plots.
In Death on Canvas, the first book, Jessie returns to Sage Bluff to house-sit and stumbles upon a century-old mystery involving missing Thomas Moran masterpieces and a murdered girl. The intricate plot weaves past and present, keeping readers guessing. Its sequel, Death at Crooked Creek, sees Jessie at an art expo, where a dead body in her motorhome sparks a chilling investigation tied to a teenager’s death. Cherry’s ability to blend art history, local culture, and suspense shines in both novels.
Cherry’s writing style is engaging and layered, with vivid descriptions of Montana’s landscapes and quirky, relatable characters like Norwegian cop Arvid Abrahmsen. Her mysteries are far from predictable, featuring twists that surprise even seasoned readers. Fans praise her for crafting stories that feel personal, as if Jessie’s adventures could unfold in their own hometowns.
Why Mary Ann Cherry Matters
Mary Ann Cherry’s work resonates because it celebrates the intersection of art and storytelling. Her novels introduce readers to the world of fine art while delivering suspense that rivals the best cozy mysteries. By rooting her stories in Montana’s culture and history, Cherry preserves the spirit of the American West, making it accessible to a global audience.
Her influence extends beyond books. As a Master Signature member of Women Artists of the West and a mentor to aspiring painters, Cherry inspires creativity in others. Her ability to juggle two demanding careers—art and writing—makes her a role model for pursuing passion without limits. For fans of cozy mysteries and art lovers alike, Cherry’s work is a treasure trove of inspiration and intrigue.
- Born: Rural Montana, near the Yellowstone River
- Key Works: Death on Canvas, Death at Crooked Creek, The Chicken Chronicles
- Notable Roles: President of Women Artists of the West, Signature member of Pastel Society of America
Ready to get lost in a Montana mystery? Grab Death on Canvas and dive into Mary Ann Cherry’s thrilling world of art and suspense!