Author Spotlight: Jay Larkin

Jay Larkin is the author of Aunt Audrey’s Angels, a delightful cozy mystery series where each chapter is a standalone mystery (perfect for coffee breaks or bedtime). In the cozy world of Aunt Audrey’s Angels, cleaning houses uncovers more than just dust. The main character, Jenny Brooks, is a determined cleaner with a flair for sleuthing. She solves mysteries from theft to extortion and fraud to frame-ups with help from a cast of quirky characters.

Cozy Crime Reads Interview with Jay Larkin

What attracted you to the cozy mystery genre?

I grew up reading books by Enid Blyton, The Famous Five and The Secret Seven, the UK equivalent of Nancy Drew. They featured child detectives solving mysteries. My best friend and I called ourselves The Terrific Two and tried to do the same. You can read some of our adventures if you sign up to my newsletter.

What essential elements make a cozy stand out to you as a reader?

I think it's important to have a likeable sleuth. Equally necessary is a clever plot with a twist – or two! Also the writer must play fair, giving the reader enough information to solve the mystery themselves, albeit hidden amongst red herrings.

Do you have a favorite amateur sleuth?

I love Sherlock Holmes – he could deduce so much from such small details. I also think having a sidekick – like Dr Watson – gives the sleuth a genuine reason to share information throughout the book.

What inspired you to write your first cozy mystery?

I'd written a few books in other genres, but several old friends reminded me I'd always read mysteries, and suggested I write one. I haven't looked back.

How do you research and create the "cozy" elements in your books, like the settings and community?

I've lived in several different small towns in England, so I base the settings and community on places I already know. My series is set in the 1980s–mostly to avoid including cell phones and the internet–so I research specific information relating to that time.

What is one key step in your writing process that helps you transform an idea into a finished book?

Talking it over with someone, either my husband or my local writing group.

What advice would you give aspiring cozy mystery authors who want to start writing their first novel?

Start with a short story; it’s much less daunting than a whole novel.

How can readers connect with you online?

My website www.jaylarkinbooks.com.

Explore Jay Larkin’s Books

Jay’s Larkin’s books are available on Amazon in ebook and print formats. They can also be read with a Kindle Unlimited subscription.