Picture a storyteller who swapped hospital scrubs for a pen, weaving cozy mysteries with a touch of romance—meet Nancy J. Cohen! Born in 1948, this American author is best known for her Bad Hair Day Mysteries, where hairstylist Marla Vail snips through clues in sunny South Florida. With a knack for blending humor, romance, and suspense, Cohen’s stories are as vibrant as a fresh salon cut.
From childhood tales to award-winning novels, Cohen’s journey is a testament to passion and persistence. Her ability to craft relatable characters and intricate plots has earned her a loyal following, making her a standout in the cozy mystery and romance genres.
The Making of Nancy J. Cohen
Nancy J. Cohen grew up with a love for storytelling, scribbling poems and stories as a child. After earning a clinical nursing degree from the University of Rochester and a master’s from the University of California in 1975, she worked as a nurse for over a decade. But her creative spark never faded. Inspired by a 'How to Write' guide, she began crafting novels during grad school, balancing patient care with her budding writing career. In 1994, under the pseudonym Nancy Cane, she published her debut sci-fi romance, Circle of Light, marking her shift to full-time writing.
Nancy J. Cohen’s Unforgettable Stories
Cohen’s Bad Hair Day Mysteries, featuring the spirited Marla Vail, are her crowning achievement. Set in the sultry backdrop of Palm Haven, Florida, these novels combine cozy mystery staples—amateur sleuthing, quirky characters, and a tight-knit community—with romantic flair. In Permed to Death (1999), Marla investigates a client’s poisoning in her salon, kicking off a series that’s now 18 books strong. Hair Raiser (2000) sees her untangle sabotage at a fundraiser, while Murder by Manicure (2001) dives into a gym-based whodunit.
Under the pseudonym Nancy Cane, Cohen also penned the Light-Years Trilogy, blending sci-fi and romance in novels like Moonlight Rhapsody (1994). Her writing style is light yet layered, weaving humor, well-researched details, and a touch of Florida charm. From tropical plants to the exotic pet trade, Cohen’s meticulous research adds depth, making her stories both entertaining and educational.
Her nonfiction works, like Writing the Cozy Mystery (2014), offer aspiring authors practical advice, earning accolades like an Agatha Award nomination. A Bad Hair Day Cookbook (2019) complements her series with recipes, showcasing her playful engagement with fans.
Why Nancy J. Cohen Matters
Nancy J. Cohen’s impact lies in her ability to make cozy mysteries feel fresh and relatable. Her heroines, like Marla Vail, are everyday women with courage and curiosity, resonating with readers who crave authentic characters. Her books have won numerous awards, including Readers’ Favorite Book Awards and the RONE Award, and have been named Best Cozy Mystery by Suspense Magazine. Active in the writing community, Cohen has served as past president of Florida Romance Writers and Mystery Writers of America’s Florida Chapter, mentoring aspiring authors.
Her shift from sci-fi romance to mysteries reflects her versatility, while her research-driven storytelling educates as it entertains. Cohen’s legacy is a vibrant tapestry of wit, warmth, and whodunits that continue to captivate cozy mystery fans.
- Birth Date: 1948
- Key Works: Bad Hair Day Mysteries, Light-Years Trilogy, Writing the Cozy Mystery
- Awards: Readers’ Favorite Book Awards, RONE Award, HOLT Medallion
- Hobbies: Reading, fine dining, cruising, visiting Disney World
Snag Permed to Death and dive into Nancy J. Cohen’s cozy, sun-soaked mysteries today!