Picture a storyteller who spins cozy mysteries with canine sleuths and ghostly adventures for young readers—meet Richard Audry! Writing under the pseudonym D.R. Martin, this American author weaves tales that blend humor, heart, and a touch of the fantastical. From the dog-driven King Harald Mysteries to the spirited Johnny Graphic series, Audry’s stories capture the joy of small-town life and the thrill of a good puzzle.
With a career rooted in journalism and photography, Audry’s journey to novelist is a testament to following one’s passions. His diverse portfolio, spanning mysteries, fantasy, and historical fiction, invites readers into worlds where wit and wonder collide.
The Making of Richard Audry
Born in Duluth, Minnesota, D.R. Martin—better known as Richard Audry—grew up with dreams of becoming a photojournalist. His early years were shaped by a love for storytelling, inspired by classics like Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows. After studying at college, he dove into arts journalism in Minneapolis, covering everything from classical music to science fiction as a reviewer for the Minneapolis Star Tribune. This eclectic background honed his knack for vivid, engaging prose.
Audry’s pivot to fiction came after years as a professional copywriter. His passion for photography, which led to exhibitions and a permanent online gallery, infused his writing with a keen eye for detail. This blend of visual and narrative artistry set the stage for his literary career, where he crafts stories as vibrant as his candid street photos.
Richard Audry’s Unforgettable Stories
Audry’s bibliography is a delightful mix of genres, each series showcasing his versatile storytelling. The King Harald Mysteries, starting with The Karma of King Harald, follow Andy Skyberg and his clever canine, Harald, as they unravel small-town mysteries with humor and heart. Reviewers praise the series for its lighthearted charm, with one calling it “a cozy mystery you won’t want to miss.”
For younger readers, the Johnny Graphic Adventures trilogy transports them to a 1935 alternate universe where ghosts are real. Titles like Johnny Graphic and the Etheric Bomb blend adventure and fantasy, following young photographer Johnny and his sister Nina as they battle spectral foes. Audry’s historical mysteries, the Mary MacDougall series, feature a sharp-witted 18-year-old sleuth in 1901. Novels like A Pretty Little Plot and The Stolen Star combine romance, intrigue, and period detail.
Audry’s style is warm and accessible, marked by rich characters and settings that feel like home. Whether it’s a dog solving crimes or a teen uncovering secrets, his stories celebrate curiosity and community, making them perfect for readers craving escapism with substance.
Why Richard Audry Matters
Richard Audry’s impact lies in his ability to craft niche stories that resonate widely. His cozy mysteries tap into the growing popularity of the genre, offering a fresh spin with canine protagonists and small-town charm. The Johnny Graphic series introduces young readers to fantasy with a historical twist, sparking imagination and a love for reading.
By embracing diverse genres, Audry inspires aspiring authors to explore their passions fearlessly. His journey from journalist to novelist underscores the power of perseverance, proving that a multifaceted career can lead to literary success. For fans, his books are a reminder that great stories can come from unexpected places.
- Pen Name: Richard Audry (D.R. Martin)
- Key Works: The Karma of King Harald, Johnny Graphic and the Etheric Bomb, A Pretty Little Plot
- Genres: Cozy Mystery, Middle-Grade Fantasy, Historical Mystery
- Hobbies: Photography, hiking, collecting DVDs
Snag The Karma of King Harald and dive into Richard Audry’s cozy, canine-fueled mysteries today!