Picture a storyteller weaving tales of vampires and Southern charm from a Tennessee farm, surrounded by Yorkshire terriers and pygmy goats—meet Piper Maitland, also known as Michael Lee West! This American author captivates readers with her paranormal thrillers and cozy mysteries, blending supernatural intrigue with heartfelt narratives. Her unique voice and dual pen names have carved a niche in modern literature, promising thrilling escapes for fans worldwide.
The Making of Piper Maitland
Piper Maitland, born and raised on the Gulf Coast, grew up immersed in a world of Southern storytelling and culinary traditions. With a B.S. in Nursing, she initially pursued a medical career, but her passion for writing proved irresistible. Married to a doctor and living on a Lebanon, Tennessee farm, Maitland draws inspiration from her eclectic surroundings, including her faithful dog Zap, who inspired a character in her novel Mermaids in the Basement. Her transition to writing full-time marked the beginning of a prolific career under both her own name and the pseudonym Michael Lee West.
Piper Maitland’s Unforgettable Stories
As Piper Maitland, she’s best known for the Acquainted with the Night series, a vampire thriller saga that kicks off with Acquainted with the Night (2011). This novel follows Caro Clifford, a London tour guide unraveling medieval secrets and facing an ancient vampire’s quest for sunlight. Its sequel, Hunting Daylight (2013), deepens the stakes with Caro’s search for her missing husband amid day-walking vampires. Maitland’s paranormal style honors vampire mythology while adding fresh twists, blending suspense with historical depth.
Under the pseudonym Michael Lee West, she crafts cozy mysteries and Southern fiction. The Teeny Templeton Mystery series, starting with Gone with a Handsomer Man (2011), features quirky heroine Teeny Templeton solving crimes with humor and heart. Standalone novels like Crazy Ladies (1990) and Mad Girls in Love (2005) explore multigenerational Southern families with wit and warmth. West’s food memoir, Consuming Passions (1999), reflects her love for culinary arts, showcasing her versatility across genres.
Why Piper Maitland Matters
Piper Maitland’s dual identities as Maitland and West highlight her range, from spine-chilling paranormal tales to cozy, character-driven mysteries. Her ability to weave Southern culture, supernatural elements, and strong female protagonists resonates with a global audience. Fans praise her vivid characters and immersive worlds, while her growing fanbase eagerly awaits new releases. Maitland’s work bridges genres, offering both thrills and emotional depth, making her a standout in contemporary fiction.
- Pen Names: Piper Maitland and Michael Lee West
- Key Works: Acquainted with the Night, Hunting Daylight, Crazy Ladies, Gone with a Handsomer Man
- Home: Lebanon, Tennessee farm with husband, son, and animals
- Inspiration: Southern culture, family, and her dog Zap
About Piper Maitland
Snag Acquainted with the Night or Crazy Ladies and dive into Piper Maitland’s thrilling, heartfelt worlds!