Picture an American storyteller who turned an undertaker into a wisecracking sleuth—meet Tim Cockey! Born in Baltimore, this award-winning author spun his eclectic life into the hilarious and suspenseful Hitchcock Sewell mystery series. With a knack for blending noir with cheeky humor, Cockey’s novels have charmed readers and critics alike, proving that even a funeral parlor can be the stage for gripping tales.
From dismantling barns to penning bestsellers, Cockey’s journey is as colorful as his stories. His unique voice and Baltimore-rooted narratives make him a standout in the cozy mystery genre, inviting readers to laugh, cringe, and solve crimes alongside his dapper protagonist.
The Making of Tim Cockey
Tim Cockey was born in 1955 in Baltimore, Maryland, a city that would later become the vibrant backdrop for his novels. Growing up, he soaked in the works of comic book heroes like Batman and literary classics like Howard Pyle’s Robin Hood, sparking a love for outsiders fighting for justice. Educated in Ohio, London, and Copenhagen, Cockey’s early career was a whirlwind of odd jobs—tearing down a barn for a quirky laundromat heir, working in advertising and design for a Baltimore newspaper, and even moonlighting as a book reviewer under a pseudonym. His stint as head of public relations for the Baltimore Opera Company added a theatrical flair to his resume before a move to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, ignited his writing passion. A small grant from the Maryland State Arts Council fueled two years of work on an unpublished novel, Zen Bastard, before he hit his stride in New York City.
Tim Cockey’s Unforgettable Stories
Cockey’s claim to fame is his Hitchcock Sewell series, a five-book run that redefined cozy mysteries with wit and grit. The series kicks off with The Hearse You Came In On (2000), where Baltimore undertaker Hitchcock Sewell stumbles into a murder mystery laced with political blackmail and police corruption. A Book Sense Top Ten pick and Dilys Award nominee, it introduced Hitch’s dry humor and knack for trouble. Hearse of a Different Color (2001) ups the ante with a murdered waitress dumped at Sewell & Sons funeral home, blending snowy chaos with Hitch’s sleuthing charm. The Hearse Case Scenario (2002), a Lefty Award winner, dives into Baltimore’s underbelly, while Murder in the Hearse Degree (2002) and Backstabber (2004) keep the stakes high with eccentric characters and twisty plots.
Cockey’s style is a delightful mix of noir and comedy, with Hitchcock Sewell serving as a suave narrator who elevates undertaking to an art form. His Baltimore settings pulse with local flavor, from Fells Point’s gritty charm to high-society mansions. Themes of loyalty, justice, and the absurdity of human nature shine through, making each book a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud ride.
Why Tim Cockey Matters
Tim Cockey brought a fresh voice to the mystery genre, proving that humor and suspense can coexist seamlessly. His Hitchcock Sewell series carved a niche for readers craving clever, character-driven stories, earning accolades like the Lefty Award and a loyal following. By rooting his tales in Baltimore’s eclectic culture, Cockey not only celebrated his hometown but also highlighted the universal appeal of a good underdog story. His work as a story analyst for companies like ABC and Hallmark Entertainment further showcases his storytelling prowess, influencing both page and screen.
Though less prolific in recent years, Cockey’s novels remain a benchmark for aspiring mystery writers, blending wit with heart in a way that feels timeless. His legacy lies in making readers see undertakers—and Baltimore—in a whole new light.
- Birth Year: 1955
- Key Works: The Hearse You Came In On, Hearse of a Different Color, The Hearse Case Scenario, Murder in the Hearse Degree, Backstabber
- Awards: Lefty Award for The Hearse Case Scenario, Dilys Award nominee
Snag The Hearse You Came In On and dive into Tim Cockey’s witty, thrilling world of mystery!