My New Mystery Series!

I am excited to announce my new historical series, The Hanneke Bauer Mysteries! I have signed a three-book contract with Level Best Books.

This project has been in the works for a long time.

Twelve years ago, I completed the manuscript of the first Chloe Ellefson Mystery, Old World Murder. While my agent shopped for a publisher, I began writing a historical mystery.

I was halfway through that manuscript when Old World Murder sold. For the next decade I kept busy writing the Chloe Ellefson Mysteries, children’s books for American Girl, and one nonfiction book for the Wisconsin Historical Society Press.

When my former publisher announced they were closing, and I had time to catch my breath, I decided to finish the half-written historical. In June, I submitted the complete manuscript to Level Best Books. The editor who read my submission made an offer—and asked for two more books featuring the same main character.

The press is owned and operated by Shawn Reilly Simmons, Verena Rose, and Harriette Sackler. These three dynamos have aided the mystery community in many ways, including serving on the board of Malice Domestic, an annual fan convention that celebrates the traditional mystery. I’ve attended Malice many times, and seen these women in action.

Equally appealing, Level Best Books’ Historia imprint is devoted entirely to historical mysteries! I’m thrilled to be working with an editor who loves history as much as I do.

The first Hanneke Bauer book, which is set in Wisconsin, will be published in November, 2021. The book’s time period and theme intrigue me, and I think they may intrigue you as well! I’ll share more insights a little later.  

Photo by Kay Klubertanz

I want to assure readers that launching the Hanneke Bauer Mysteries does not mean I’m ending the Chloe Ellefson series. In fact, I’ve already chosen a location for the Chloe 12.

So, settle in! There are all kinds of reading adventures on the horizon.

Tags: Hanneke Bauer Mysteries, Historia, Kathleen Ernst, Level Best Books