From Historical Fiction to Cozy Mysteries: Why I'm Embracing a New Writing Genre After a Decade of Contemplation
From book idea to publication and beyond.
Sometimes I make a quick decision, at least on the surface, but the reality is I’ve usually been thinking about it for a long time before I seemingly jump in. In this case, I’ve been contemplating writing something different for at least a decade. As some of you know, I have two published books—a creative non-fiction book and a historical novel—plus three other historical novels at various stages of the publishing to drafting stages, but I wanted to dip my toe into genre fiction for quite some time.
For years, I’ve wanted to write books in a new genre, but I’ve been so focussed on my works-in-progress, I’ve pushed away those instincts, at least for the time being. Here’s where I’m at from published books to works-in-progress
Surviving Stutthof: My Father’s Memories Behind the Death Gate (Latitude 46 2017)
Sisu’s Winter War (Latitude 46 2022)—debut novel
Donovan novel (untitled)—currently under discussion with publisher
Finnish war child novel (untitled)—querying it
Sointula novel (untitled) — revising a third draft
Cozy mystery with a Nordic twist — joyful planning stages!
Now that I’m nearly finished revising the Sointula novel, I’m ready to dive into something completely different. I want—no, need—to write something contemporary, lighthearted, and pleasurable to read, especially given the times we live in.
At first, I thought I might write romance, but I don’t actually read much romance (although I love a good Hallmark movie!). I reached back into my memory to all books I loved as a kid, and remembered devouring Agatha Christie, Sherlock Homes, Nancy Drew and so many others. Aha! As soon as I landed on cozy mysteries, I felt so much joy in my body and the ideas wouldn’t start downloading.
I crave the quaint small town with a quirky cast of characters and everyone knows one another (and each other’s business). I want some humour, a touch of romance, and lasting friendships. I want low-key drama and life’s everyday problems that are easily solvable. And yes, I want a murder (off the page) and a puzzle to solve.
I’ll continue to write about book coaching and writing my historical fiction here in Book Coach Writes a Book, as well as other craft topics, but I invite you to head over to A. L. Jensen: Cozy Mysteries with a Nordic Twist to follow me as I navigate a new genre, read a wide variety of mentor texts, and seek the advice of readers and experts. Whether you love cozy mysteries or not, I’d love you to join me as I figure out this new writing adventure.
So thankful for your continued support and encouragement and I hope you’ll join me over there, too. I mean, who doesn’t want a little mystery with a Nordic flair?
📚 JOIN MY COZY MYSTERY BOOK CLUB
If you’re interested in joining my summer Cozy Mystery Book Club we ride at dawn. Just kidding. We’ll have our first meeting on Monday, June 2 at 7:00-8:00 PM EST.
On the agenda:
Pick a monthly meeting date & time
Pick our first cozy mystery (please bring a few titles to suggest)
Bring your knitting, crocheting, or just a cup of tea and let’s chat cozy mysteries. Please share the word! (This option is for paid subscribers to A. L. Jensen).
Happy writing!
