
Donna Fletcher Crow, Novelist of British History, has written more than 50 books specializing in British Christianity. These books include: The Monastery Murders, clerical mysteries; Lord Danvers Investigates, Victorian true-crime; The Elizabeth and Richard series, literary suspense; and Glastonbury, The Novel of Christian England. She loves research and sharing you-are-there experiences with her readers.
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Donna Fletcher Crow, Novelist of British History
A traveling researcher engages people and places from Britain's past and present, drawing comparisons and contrasts between past and present for today's reader.
Books and an Invitation
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 20, 2019
My abject apologies to my highly valued Newsletter Subscribers for whom the pictures failed to come through! I don't know whether I'm more frustrated or disappointed, but I knowDonna Fletcher Crow Finds Hope for 2019
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ January 2, 2019
Britain's Re-Told History Of Tragedy And Triumph Offers Hope For UK In 2019 As It Is Torn Apart By Brexit, Says Donna Fletcher Crow, Author Of The Award-Winning, Epic Novel 'Glastonbury'Christmas Decorations, Books and Joy
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ November 28, 2018
Ah, theAward Winning Novelist of British History, Donna Fletcher Crow, Announces Release Of 'A Most Singular Venture', An Elizabeth And Richard Mystery
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ November 6, 2018

Jane Austen Society Offers Fun and Erudition: The Universality of Jane
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 4, 2018
Something Different for Your Book Club: An Unholy Communion
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 10, 2018
Are you looking for a new angle to stimulate discussion in your book club? As we near Halloween and spooks and goblins begin appearing in store windows and front lawns, many thoughts turn to ideas of the paranormal, so why not prompt a discussion of "things that go bump in the night" by reading#MysteryExchange Tatias Tattoo by Linda Brendle
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 25, 2018
#Mystery Exchange continues today with a book that tackles the horrific specter of sex-trafficking. Welcome, Linda Bredle to tell us about your book.#Mystery Exchange Cathy Perkins, In It For the Money
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 24, 2018
Welcome, Cathy Perkins to answer that age-old question:#MysteryExchange The Romance of Resorts by Avery Daniels
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 20, 2018
Today I welcome mystery and suspense author Avery Daniels to #Mystery Exchange. Avery and I both write mystery novels with amateur sleuths. Here you can get acquainted with her Julienne, then go on over to Avery's blog#Mystery Exchange J.J.DiBenedetto Relaunches Dream Doctor Mysteries
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 19, 2018
Day 5 of my Mystery Exchange--and what fun this is to have such a variety of guests. The never-ending variety of creativity is really amazing. Today my guest is J.J.DiBenedetto to tell us about a whole series he has just re-launched in ebook, print and audio. A huge congratulations is due. I know how much work this is, and i think you'll agree with me that they look great.#Mystery Exchange Sink or Swim with Stacy Juba
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 17, 2018
Day 4 of my month-long Mystery Exchange. I'm especially happy to be exchanging today with the charming Stacy Juba because way back in 2012 (I had to look it up) I was one of 52 novelists and journalists to contribute an essay on what I was doing 25 years ago for her#MysteryExchange - The Murder That Inspired a Romantic #Mystery Novel, with @Kris_Bock
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 7, 2018
Day 3 in my Mystery Blog Exchange. Today meet Kris Bock with her novel#Mystery Exchange with Andi Ramos Gumshoe Girl
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 6, 2018
Day 2 in my July Mystery Exchange tour. My guest is Andi Ramos to tell us about her book#Mystery Exchange with P.J. MacLayne The Marquesa's Necklace
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 5, 2018
Today I am doing a mystery blog exchange with P.J. MacLayne, author ofValentine's Gifts for My Readers
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 14, 2018
What a special day this is—St. Valentine’s Day and Ash Wednesday. At first glance they might seem at opposite ends of the spectrum, but at heart, both are expressions of love—human and divine.Quick update
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ January 27, 2018
Just a quick note to let you know thatHappy St. Crispin's Day
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 24, 2017
October 25 is the day the church remembers the brothers Crispin and Crispinian, cobblers who were martyred under Diocletian. The day has become more famous, however, as the day of the Battle of Agincourt because of the stirring speech Shakespeare has the young Henry V make to his troops on the even of battle.New Jane Austen Friend Launches Pride and Prejudice Variation
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 19, 2017
As I have said before, one of the best things about attending the annual Jane Austen Society of North America AGM is the delightful people one meets. This year was no exception and one of my fun connections was a sister Austen Author Anngela Schroeder. We met the first day at afternoon tea and then had the fun of making Regency bonnets together.Day 4 Jane Austen's Prayers, John Wayne's Yacht
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 9, 2017
In the intense schedule of this conference our only chance for worship was 7:30 at St. Mary by the Sea,Watch This Space, An Invitation
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 30, 2017
the time Janeites across America, and, indeed, around the world, look forward to. It is theThe Joy of Being Read
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 9, 2017
"How is your book selling," is one of the most frequent questions authors are asked it is right up there with "Where do your stories come from." And, yes, sales are nice. Who does not need money and feel good about a nice royalty check in the bank. But for very few of us is that the main point.Free/99 Summer Reading
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 19, 2017
My summer project is to get all of my Lord Danvers Victorian true-crime series re-edited and published in all-new editions. I cannot promise to have all 4 books out by the end of summer, but I can report progress.Japanese Journey Day 5 Asakusa Temple and Tokyo Skytree
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ June 22, 2017





Variety is the Spice of Life for Christian Romance Giveaway
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ June 14, 2017
Kindle Countdown Deal
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ April 18, 2017


Thoughts on The Crown of Thorns
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ April 14, 2017


Nine Novels Free for Armchair Travelers
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ March 9, 2017

23 Shades of Black by Kenneth Wishnia is set in New York City in a time especially ripe for a mystery novel:
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Christmas Reading and Realities
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ December 10, 2016
Do you have a cherished Christmas fantasy? Mine, which I’ve nurtured for years, but am yet to realize, is that I’ll have all my work and preparations done by the first week in December and then be able to spend the rest of the month sitting by a beautifully lit tree, sipping tea and reading Christmas stories. Well, as the song says, “You gotta have a dream if you’re going to have a dream come true.” So I’m still dreaming.Keeping it Fresh, Renewing your Backlist
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 9, 2016
In today’s electronic market yesterday is sooo gone. Everything has to be new and fresh and of the minute. That can be exhausting. And discouraging for writers who have a backlist of really good books that just aren’t getting any attention. My advice is, don’t fight the trend—go with it. For all the frustrations of electronic publishing, it does offer the opportunity of instant renewal.Where Love Illumines, Book 2 Where There is Love Series, Launched
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ May 13, 2016
Newsletter Launched--Welcome to my World
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ May 7, 2016
Whee! It's a bit like jumping off that high-diving board. Well, I hope it won't be like my one-time high diving board jump--that ended in a bellyflop. But just the little, jumping-off-the-kiddie-board thing which was ever so hard to do the first time--but once I"d worked up the courage and taken that first plunge, I loved it.It's a Wrap, Wendy Jones Launches Book 3 in DI Shona McKenzie Series
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ November 15, 2015
I'm delighted today to be joining in the general celebration over the launch of Wendy Jones' newest book Killer's Cross, book 3 in her phenomenally successful DI Shona McKenzie tartan noir series. Killer's Countdown, Killer's Craft and Killer's Cross have come out at the breath-taking speed of 3 books in 13 months so I've asked Wendy to talk to us about her writing process. Over to you, Wendy--THE BRITISH RAJ, AS EXCITING AS THE WILD, WILD WEST
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ November 6, 2015
My guest today isCruise Aboard the Belle of Louisville a perfect end to Conference
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 11, 2015
Began Sunday as Jane Austen would have with Morning Prayers. The vicar read a sermon by the Rev. Thomas Sherlock, Bishop of London in the 18th century, whose sermons Jane read and admired and ended with a prayer Jane Austen wrote.Having a Ball with Jane Austen
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 10, 2015
Another full day of great events at the Jane Austen Society of North America AGM"Living in Jane Austen's World", Day 2, Meeting Old Friends
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 9, 2015
Old Friends from my real life and from my literary life filled my day in Louisville. I began with a quick chat with Tim Bullamore, publisher of the wonderful ""Living in Jane Austen's World" Jane Austen Society of North America in Louisville
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 8, 2015
Cover Reveal--That Breathless Moment
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 2, 2015
Almost a whole year after first sending the manuscript to my publisher, the message appears in my inbox: The Flame Ignites- Final Cover.Farmers Market Comes to Me
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ June 18, 2015
I love farmers' markets— fresh produce, locally grown, unusual varieties of vegetables not easily found in stores. . . But the truth is, I seldom get myself out to a market. Always in a hurry. Pick something up quickly at the grocery store. . .Cover Reveal: New D. I. Shona McKenzie
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ May 31, 2015
And here it is! Drum roll, trumpet fanfareRevisiting the Scene of the Crime
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ May 12, 2015
I’m not sure how accurate the old saw about criminals revisiting the scene of their crime is, but I can testify to the truth of it for crime writers. Last month I had the delight of revisiting the scene of a murder I committed many years ago at the Oregon Shakespearean Festival in Ashland. Well, at least, my villain inMarilyn Meredith, Stamina Beyond Retirement
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ April 27, 2015
Donna:Wendy Jones, D.I. Shona McKenzie and Dundee
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ April 22, 2015
Welcome, Wendy. I'm delighted to have you as my guest today on "Deeds of Darkness; Deeds of Light." What a shame that our shring a cup of Scottish Blend tea has to be virtual.A Quartet in Springtime— Four Author Event this Saturday
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ April 13, 2015
Writers, Readers, and All Who Love Books are invited toA Visit with the Curator of Jane Austen's House Museum
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ January 21, 2015
One of the most universally held daydreams of Janeites (perhaps second only to dancing with Mr. Darcy) is a visit to Chawton Cottage, Jane Austen's home where she lived so happily with her sister Cassandra, her mother and their friend Martha Lloyd, and where her writing at last truly flowered. For me, the dream came true in 2012 when I was following the Jane Austen Trail as research for my literary suspenseHappy Birthday, Jane Austen
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ December 8, 2014
Jane Austen was born on the 16th of December, 1775, at the quiet rectory of Steventon in rural Hampshire. Two Hundred and thirty-nine years later the world is still celebrating her birthday as a heartfelt "Thank you" for the enormous joy her six novel and assorted minor works have brought to our lives.Jane Austen 2015 Calendar, Longbourn to Pemberley
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ November 19, 2014
It's so much more than a calendar! The hot-off-the-press 2015 Jane Austen Calendar byMavens of Mayhem at Mysteries on Main Street
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 27, 2014
Mavens of Mayhem— what a great name! Mavens of Mayhem at Mysteries on Main Street— even better. (Just try saying it ten times fast.) And what a great event it was.A Visit with Tim Bullamore from Jane Austen's Regency World Magazine
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 24, 2014
Have you ever wished you could get paid to live in Jane Austen's world? In some ways that seems to be what Tim Bullamore, publisher of the delightfulCrow/Crowe Family Migration to Nebraska
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 16, 2014
I have enjoyed Fay Sampson's articles on this blog about how family research led to writing her excellent Suzie Fewings mystery series. I'm doubtful that my foray into the Crow family past last week will lead to a mystery series for me— but then, you never know— and it has certainly led to increasing my already-alive appreciation for the heritage passed on to us by earlier generations and the importance of keeping that legacy alive.Crow/Crowe Family History from Canada
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 15, 2014
Well, we always knew that the Crow/Crowe family settled in Peterborough, Ontario, when they emigrated from County Monaghan, Ireland, and then, a generation later hired a train along with the McCracken family and migrated to St. Paul, Nebraska, near Grand Island.Jane Austen Meeting: An Intellectual Feast
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 13, 2014
Well, yes, certainly there is the funA JANE AUSTEN ENCOUNTER
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 9, 2014
A recent discussion thread on the DorothyL Listserve for mystery readers and writers has been to ask writers "How long will you keep writing?" My answer is: "As long as it's fun."The Shaw Festival in Lovely Niagara-on-the-Lake
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 4, 2014
Three years ago we were planning a road trip to the eastern US when Stan saw an article in the Wall Street Journal aboutOn the Road, Reading and Listening
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 2, 2014
Thursday, September 25, Ogden, UtahDid Jane Austen Powder Her Hair? Jane Austen's First Love by Syrie James
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ August 17, 2014
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Living in the Middle Ages, my Pennsic War Experience
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ August 8, 2014
When writing about an historic period no research can beat actually being there. But how often does a writer have a chance actually to live in their time period when they are writing about the 14th century? Well, that's exactly what I was able to do last week.Just Released: A NEWLY CRIMSONED RELIQUARY
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 9, 2014
Few things can make a usually rational person want to run through the streets shouting or grab perfect strangers and tell them your news like the release of a new book. And that's exactly how I'm feeling at the moment— that breathless bubble in my throat that makes me want to jump up and down and, yes, run through the streets shouting.On the Road with Jenny Milchman
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ May 18, 2014
The delightful Jenny Milchman and I have been online friends for nearly five years and have theThe Joy of Writing
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ April 28, 2014
I was recently asked to be part of a mini blog tour. Since the invitation came from Pen WilcockJane Austen and Volcanos in Ecuador: J Dawn King on Her Pride and Prejudice Variation
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ April 21, 2014
Meet Idaho Author Sherry Briscoe
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ March 31, 2014
Well, life is busy, but I'd been a member of the Idaho Writers' Guild (A Visit with Judy Alter— My Alter Ego
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ March 26, 2014
I am delighted to have Judy Alter as my guest today. I "met" Judy through a mystery Writers' listserve we both belong to and was fascinated to learn that in a creative sense, Judy and I have traded places. Judy grew up with an English father and now writes mysteries set in the American West. I grew up riding horses with my western father and write mysteries set in England.Adam Graham Talks About SLIME INCORPORATED
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ March 19, 2014
My guest today is the ever-creative Adam Graham. Welcome, Adam. Tell us about your new book
Jane Austen's Regency World Reviews A Jane Austen Encounter
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ March 14, 2014
Now I can breathe! After months of holding my breath— because one never knows how a bookP. D. James and Me, or The Source of Authentic Writing
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 27, 2014
We’ve recently been having a fun discussion about P. D. James on that wonderful mystery lovers’ loop DorothyL. James is, naturally, a writer frequently discussed among that group of avid writers, readers, librarians, reviewers, booksellers, etc. This round we’ve been focusing (as much as we ever focus) on herA JANE AUSTEN ENCOUNTER Garners Stellar Review
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 24, 2014
At last, at last! I've been waiting since last September (when the ebook came out) to announce that the paperback edition ofSyrie James and The Missing Manuscript of Jane Austen
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 10, 2014
I first "met" Syrie James in what is perhaps the best way to meet any author, through reading her book. Others in my local JASNA chapter (Jane Austen Society of North America) recommended Syrie’s bookHolding the Holy Grail: Jane Austen First Editions
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ January 29, 2014
Ah, a whole week in the California sunshine. And, as if that weren’t enough, I got to have lunch with my daughter-in-law Kelly and author Syrie James.Lord Danvers Available in Paperback
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ November 26, 2013
One of my favorite gems of wisdom I’ve attempted to pass on to our children is that life gives you second chances. And sometimes even third and fourth chances.Launching Jane
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 15, 2013
I have dreamed of stepping back into Regency England since I first readHistory and Me
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ August 19, 2013
I would be so thrilled if any of my readers could join me--Why Historical Cozy Mystery?
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ August 9, 2013
Agatha Christie and all the Golden Age English mystery writers are wonderful. But what do you do after you've read all the books and seen all the television adaptations 11 zillion times? I turn to some of the excellent contemporary writers such as Dolores Gordon-Smith who resurrect that age in delightful classic-style mysteries. That's why I've invited my friend Julianna Deering to be my guest today to tell us aboutRising Star Coming to Boise, Meet Jenny Milchman at Rediscovered Books
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 23, 2013
Up, Up and Away with Lord Danvers
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ June 14, 2013
One of my guiding rules as a writer (which I break only when absolutely necessary) is never to write about something I haven’t actually experienced. Of course, I must hasten to say that being murdered, falling off cliffs and finding dead bodies are a major exception to that rule.Bargain Offers for The Monastery Murders
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ April 21, 2013
AN UNHOLY COMMUNION will be getting a lot of attention in the next two weeks. This newly released installment in the Monastery Murders finds Felicity and Antony leading a group of young people on an historical philgrimage through mystical Wales. All is as idylic as Antony promised Felicity it would be until the lurking shadows that seem to have been following them take on more substantial form. And then they find a body face down in a holy well.
Many of the websites that will be reviewing AN UNHOLY COMMUNION and posting interviews and articles from the author (me) will also be hosting giveaways. I'll...
GLASTONBURY, The Novel of Christian England, in a Shining New Edition
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ April 5, 2013
I am thrilled to announce that a beautiful all-new edition of GLASTONBURY, The Novel of Christian England, has just been released by Angelico PressHoly Week Thoughts
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ March 26, 2013
An Unholy Communion, the third book in my Monastery Murders series, was released in print inPlumbing an Author's Mind, My Morning in Winter Springs, Florida
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 19, 2013
Yes, I'm here at my desk in Boise, Idaho, but I just spent half an hour in Winter Springs, Florida, with the lovely ladies of the Christian Literature Fellowship Book Club. The ladies had already discussed my book A VERY PRIVATE GRAVE and Jean, the club director in whose beautiful home they were meeting, had told them to come prepared with a question for me.Richard III, I Slept With Royalty
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 5, 2013
Lovers of English history around the world were thrilled at the news that "A skeleton found beneath a Leicester car park has been confirmed as that of English king Richard III.A Christmas in Scotland with Liz Curtis Higgs
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ December 11, 2012
Donna:The Mystery of St. Cuthbert
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ December 6, 2012
For almost 14 centuries St. Cuthbert has been inspiring and mystifying people. His simple, holy life lived in as much obscurity as he could manage on not-remote-enough islands off the coast of Northumbria, the amazing account of the 200-year-journey of the Cuthbert Folk guarding his relics throughout northern England and southern Scotland, his uncorrupted body surviving the ravages of the Dissolution. . . the story continues to today, inspiring Believers anew with the power of Holiness.The Writing of UNLEAVENED DEAD, or, Why Everybody Needs a Rabbi
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ December 5, 2012
Donna:Marketing Guru's Top Tips
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ December 1, 2012
Award-winning author and marketing guru Lillian Brummet joins us today to share tips for otherAuthorgraph, It's The Latest Thing
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ November 30, 2012
That's one thing about life in this electronic age— it's never boring. Just when you think you've caught up with the latest thing, along comes something new.A Tincture of Murder, The Next Big Thing
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ November 11, 2012
I’m playing a new game called blog tag today I’m "it"! I was invited by the lovely Stacy Juba whoAuthor Carole Shmurak on: Dorothy L. Sayers, Lord Peter and Me
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ November 7, 2012
Jessie Anderson: Writing a YA Novel on a Sensitive Topic
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ November 6, 2012
Donna: My guest today is the lovely Jessie Anderson whose young adult novel AT WHAT COST about an important and sensitive topic was released this summer. Welcome, Jessie.The Writing Process--It's A Mystery
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 22, 2012
Karen McCullough, one of my fellow authors from the new e-book 25 Years in the Rearview
If you enjoy magazine columns and Chicken Soup...
Tracy Krauss on Wind Over Marshdale
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 17, 2012
Today Tracy Krauss one of my fellow authors from the brand new e-book24 Hours in London
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 14, 2012
As much as I love research trips that take me across the water to some of my favorite spots ( I'm often accused of choosing the settings of my books by where i want to go next— which is perfectly true) the down side of that is that I never go any place as just a tourist. if a site isn't on my research list, I don't take time for it.Writing the Modern Gothic Novel
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 9, 2012
I'd like to welcome Vicki Delaney, one of my fellow authors from the brand new e-bookClaire Dunn, Author of Mortal Fire
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 2, 2012
I am so pleased to have Claire Dunn as my guest today. I have just read a magazine article aboutA VERY PRIVATE GRAVE, Conversation with a Reader
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 31, 2012
I’ve just had one of those exchanges with a reader that can make a writer’s whole week— or maybe even, month. One of the glories of the internet is making conversations like this available around the world. This one is from England, which I especially prize since that’s where my Monastery Murders series is set.Glastonbury Tor
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 28, 2012
"Donna, are you watching the Opening Ceremonies? They just carried the flag to the top of Glastonbury Tor!" My friend rang from England. Another friend sent me a Facebook message from Kentucky.A New Look for The Monastery Murders
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 14, 2012
Preparing for the upcoming launch of AN UNHOLY COMMUNION, the third title in The Monastery Murders, Monarch Books has decided to give the whole series a new, darker, more mysterious look. This is particularly appropriate because AN UNHOLY COMMUNION is a darker book as a quiet Welsh pilgrimage becomes a life-and-death struggle with evil.Writing from Life
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ June 23, 2012
Be sure you read to the end for details of how to win a free copy of A MIDSUMMER EVE'S NIGHTMARE.Notes from Veronica Heley: Delightful Glimpse Into The Life of a Beloved Writer
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ June 13, 2012
I always look forward to receiving Veronica Heley’s newsletter. Veronica, the author of something like 72 books) is one of the most gracious ladies I know, and she’s the creator of one of my favorite fictional sleuths— Ellie Quick. I found this month’s newsletter so delightful and so informative I asked Veronica if I could share it with my readers. Besides Veronica’s charming voice coming through so clearly, it also gives a realistic and humorous glimpse into the life of a writer:Celebrating the Sending of a Manuscript, Here's the Story
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ June 6, 2012
Celebrate with me! I just clicked the send button! With a great "Woo-hoo!" AN UNHOLY COMMUNION, book 3 in the Monastery Murders is on its way to the publisher!Most Amazing Review Ever
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ May 24, 2012
I’m still shaking a bit--35 years in this business and I’ve just received the most amazing review of my career from "The Bookish Libraria"Highlights from My Pump Up Your Book Tour. . . so far
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ May 14, 2012
Beginning week 3 of my Pump Up Your Book Tour and great fun it's been so far with two weeksWhat Do I Say to That? Handling the Author Interview
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ May 3, 2012
Whether an author loves or dreads them, whether you consider them the best part of the job or the worst part, the fact of the matter is that author interviews are part of the job. And it’s important to make the most of every opportunity.What Readers Like Best, Thoughts From a new Review
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ April 27, 2012
It's always an open question— what's most important in how readers react to your novel: setting, plot, characters. . . ?Polish Version of A VERY PRIVATE GRAVE
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ April 10, 2012
Just received the Polish translation of A VERY PRIVATE GRAVE. The only words I can read are my name on the front and Kate Charles on the back who gave a very generous endorsement. The cover art is an interesting translation of the picture of Fountains Abbey from the English language version with the addition of Lindisfarne Castle on top— a perfectly valid addition since Lindisfarne does feature in the novel.Maundy Thursday in A DARKLY HIDDEN TRUTH
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ April 4, 2012
In A DARKLY HIDDEN TRUTH, the second of my Monastery Murders, Felicity, whoSetting as the "Bones of the Plot"
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ March 30, 2012
Sally Wright is with us again today in her series about the backgrounds for her wonderful BenThoughts on a Writers' Community
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ March 24, 2012
A writer’s community is an important part of her life. We all need like-minded people to support us, encourage us, weep with us in hard times and celebrate with our successes. When I started out in this business more than 30 years ago my community experiences were limited to a once-yearly writers’ conference and a once-a-month meeting of local writers. Plus an occasional postal letter (written on real paper with a real postage stamp— remember those days?).Sally Wright on Researching in Scotland
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ March 22, 2012
Donna: Sally Wright is back with us today to share more about the backgrounds of her wonderful Ben Reese Mysteries— all of which are now available in ebook format. Today Sally shares about a passion we share— Scotland— followed by an equally enchanting location— Oxford. Looking at these pictures can give you some idea why I'm such a big fan of the Ben Reese books— reading them is like taking a trip to some of my favorite places.
Sally: Typically, I start with some idea of a basic plot, or a situation I want to explore, or a couple of characters I’ve become obsessed with - and then I go where I think I want to place the book. It’s when I get there and...
Background is Forethought in Ben Reese Mysteries
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ March 16, 2012
Donna:The Knights of St. John Still a Colourful Presence in London
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ March 6, 2012
Oh, my goodness, I had this great idea to do a series on the background of A DARKLY HIDDEN TRUTH, the newest of my Monastery Murder books, and here it is more than two months since my post on the atmospheric, soggy, boggy Norfolk Broads where dead bodies can be washed out of the earth and nefarious villains lurk in ancient church towers. Http://ning.it/wVudAMMaking of a Book and an Author
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 21, 2012
My guest today is debut novelist Becky Lyles whose romantic suspense novel I had the pleasure of reading pre-publication. My verdict:Why I Love my Publisher
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 17, 2012
In the writing world it could be 1776 all over again. Well, except for the reliance on up-to-the-minute technology, that is. But it’s certainly the day of independence and independents. Everything one reads about publishing focuses on the Indies. No, not the Indian subcontinent and southeast Asia, but authors who are independently publishing their own books through the miracle of electronics. The idea is that they do all the work and reap all the benefits.Two Great English Mystery Novels of 2011
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 15, 2012
2011 was a great year for the mystery novel, as authors young and old stepped up their game to produce some of the most nuanced and exhilarating works of the genre. While popular U.S. mystery authors like Janet Evanovich and Susan Grafton boast huge sales of their latest novels, lesser known authors published new works that challenged conventions of the genre. Louise Penny’s psychological thriller A Trick of the Light and Rosamund Lupton’s family-twist on the detective story in Sister are two entries that continue to keep mystery fiction continually fresh and exciting.A DARKLY HIDDEN TRUTH Launch Party at Rediscovered Books
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 13, 2012
Thank you to Laura and Bruce at Rediscovered Books and to all my friends who came out to hear about the latest in the Monastery Murders, have books signed and to be so wonderfully supportive— and to my lovely husband who took the pictures. I love you all!Welcome Ilene Schneider: Clerical Mysteries from a Rabbi
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 9, 2012
Welcome, mystery writer and rabbi, Ilene Schneider. I met Ilene on a mystery writers' loop where I've enjoyed her posts on mystery writing for years. Last summer when I needed research help regarding first century rabbis I turned to ilene. She was wonderfully generous in her help. (You should have fun finding your bits of wisdom whenWelcome YA Author K. Dawn Byrd
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 5, 2012
Today I'm doing a blog exchange with K. Dawn Byrd. K. Dawn is a multi-published author whoA Letter From the Great-Great-Great-Granddaughter of a Murder Victim
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 1, 2012
One of the wonderful things about sending"A Memorable Mystery Novel"
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ January 9, 2012
First the shouting and champagne cork-popping (or at least a can of Sprite) and then the nail-biting. After all the months of planning, researching, writing, editing, rewriting, comes the waiting. Then you see the page proofs and the cover— something akin to seeing the photos from an ultra-sound. Then more waiting. At last the book launch. And there is much rejoicing.The Norfolk Broads: Researching A Darkly Hidden Truth 1
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ January 6, 2012
Mystery Night in Calgary
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ November 23, 2011
I have blogged before about the vibrant mystery writing and reading scene in Calgary: recounts my delight in meeting Louise Penny and Peter Robinson at last year's Calgary Bookfest andLest We Forget: Remembrance Sunday
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ November 13, 2011
I have twice had the experience of spending Remembrance Sunday, AKA Veteran's Day, in otherit's Time to Start Thinking Christmas
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ November 1, 2011
I know, we haven't had Thanksgiving yet. But Halloween is over, although our neighbor's ghost is still blowing in the tree outside my window along with all the lovely autumn leaves. Still, it really is time to start thinking about your Christmas shopping— there's nothing worse than leaving that until the last minute.Idaho Book Extravaganze; An Extravagant Weekend
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 29, 2011
Welcome, Novelist Donn Taylor
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 26, 2011
My guest today is novelist Donn Taylor whose novelWelcome, Staci Stallings, Multi-Genre Writer and Mother
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 24, 2011
We did it! Thank you all!
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 20, 2011
Thank you so much, dear, loyal friends, for voting for me in the Authors Show contest to beGuest Noir Writer Chris Nickson
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 19, 2011
My guest today is Chris Nickson, writer of noir historical mysteries set in Leeds. I met ChrisWriting a Series of Tudor Mysteries
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 9, 2011
The first drawing I ever entered to win an advanced reader copy of a book on the mystery loop DorothyL was for Peg Herring's Her Highness's First Murder and I won! It was a delightful read,...
Three Clicks to Fame and Fortune
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 3, 2011
Dear Friends and Readers,Back in The Ruins
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 29, 2011
Sally Wright, one of my favorite authors, celebrating the ebook release of Out of The Ruins, #4 in
A Book Club Evening: Tea, Scones and A Very Private Grave
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 28, 2011
A good time was had by all. Especially by me.
The ladies of the Cross of Christ Lutheran book club couldn’t have given me a warmer welcome or more gracious hospitality. The scones were made from my own favorite recipe (but I didn’t have to make them) and each lady was given the recipe printed on peach paper rolled with a blue ribbon.
Once I had piled as much lemon curd, orange marmalade and perfectly whipped cream (thank you, Cynthia) on my scone as I could manage— setting a good example for the others— we sat at long, white damask-covered...
My Bestselling Weekend
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 11, 2011
Neither my husband nor I took Saturday off— that's one of the less felicitous things about both being self-employed and both working from home. We tend to work pretty much nonstop.Twenty Years in Print: The Fascination of Glastonbury
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 10, 2011
I’m celebrating early!Shining God's Light on Dark Subjects
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 6, 2011
My guest today is Kathi Macias. Kathi is known for writing award-winning books that tackle tough subjects. I'll let Kathi tell you about it in her own words:A Shout From the Housetops Moment: Lord Danvers Arrives
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 2, 2011
I'm in The Economist!
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 23, 2011
Well, sortof. "Holy Writ," an article in the July 16-22, 2011, issue of The Economist (p.62) reportsMother Versus Daughter
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 19, 2011
I have long been a fan of Ellie Quick, Veronica Heley's gently determined, overage detective. When I heard that Veronica has a new Ellie Quick adventure just out I cheered and then asked Veronica to share some of Ellie's background with my "Deeds of Darkness; Deeds of Light" readers.The Letter that Made My Day
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 14, 2011
Some days, well, let’s face it— most days— are pretty slogging: get up, get organized, morning prayers, exercise, read email, get to work. . . But once in awhile one gets a boost that gives energy to the whole day, maybe the whole week. I had one of those recently in the form of a letter from a reader. With her permission, I share:Celebrate the Fourth of July with a Novel of Political Intrigue
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ June 30, 2011
Looking for a politically-themed novel to go along with your Fourth of July weekend relaxing? STEPHANIE, Days of Turmoil and Victory, book 3 in my Daughters of Courage trilogy, might just be the mustard in your potato salad. (Actually, I use vinegar, but you get the image.)New Mystery Novels to Watch For
By Fay Sampson ~ June 17, 2011
I’m proud to announce that we have agreed a deal for The Hunted Hare to be published next year by Monarch as the first in a new crime series, The Aidan Mysteries.What's in a Name?
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ June 14, 2011
Continuing the series suggested to me by my friend Rob Walker on how I titled my books, I moveA Rose by Any other Name
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ June 3, 2011
A very wise and generous writer friend, Rob Walker by name, advised me, "Donna, your titles are extremely good. You should, one by one over a period of time, discuss how you arrived at the title of each of your books."K Dawn Byrd Visits
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ May 16, 2011
Welcome, K Dawn. I just realized what fun this is to have a Byrd guesting on a Crow's blog. And, as a fun turnabout, I'm also guesting on K Dawn's blog later today:Blog Exchange with Marilyn Meredith
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ May 10, 2011
What a fun idea. Mystery Writer and blogger Marilyn Meredith and I are exchanging blogs today. Please stay right here and enjoy Marilyn's story of the influences on her writing life and learn about her latest bookThe Joys and Challenges of Research
By Fay Sampson ~ April 30, 2011
Note from Donna: I'm delighted with this article on research from my co-blogger Fay Sampson because the superb period detail she uses was one of the first things that attracted me to her books.Writers' Day Out in York
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ April 27, 2011
Eboracum, the ancient Brigantian settlement which was garrisoned by a Roman legion in AD 71 and became capital of the province of Northern Britain, better known today as York, was the perfect meeting place for a group of history-loving mystery writers from three continents.Might I Crave a Boon?
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ March 24, 2011
(As Jeeves said to Wooster.)Library! Spring Author Series
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ March 23, 2011
I’ve long said, and even before on this blog, that "Librarians are my best friend." It’s true for any reader, of course, but even more so for writers. Especially a writer of historical novels most of which are set 7000 miles away from home and require extensive research.MURDER BY THE BOOK
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ March 8, 2011
With the expense of travelling these days and the easy, wide reach of the Internet, physical book tours and in-person book signings are becoming rarer and rarer. But there are still a lot of advantages to a real live author event.Kate Charles, Queen of Clerical Mysteries, Welcome!
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ March 2, 2011
Interview with Rebecca Jenkins, AKA Martha Ockley
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 28, 2011
International Book buying Postage Free
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 24, 2011
In response to my earlier post regarding the long wait between book releases from one continent to another I had such interesting replies from friends around the world— with my undying gratitude— that I decided the conversation is worth being pulled from the comment box to its own post.What's Next? Book 2 in the Monastery Murders
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 21, 2011
An enormous "Thank you!" To all you who have asked, "When is the next one coming?" afterEscape from the Glasgow Lunatic Asylum
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ February 14, 2011
Donna: My guest today— who isn't herself an escapee from a lunatic asylum, you undersatnd— is Debra Marvin. Welcome, Debra.Blogtalk Radio, Podcasting, Skype Interviews: An expert Helps sort out the Confusion
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ January 31, 2011
Of late I've become aware of an even newer, more immediate method of reaching readers than the virtual blog touring, which I enoy so much and had thought was cutting edge. In recent weeks I've been interviewed over Skype twice, once as a video interview and once audio only, but including a Second Life connection, and I'm booked to do a podcast interview over the telephone.Seattle book Signing: A Grand Day Out
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ January 26, 2011
What a great day yesterday! A book signing for A VERY PRIVATE GRAVE at The Seattle MysteryHas a Library Changed your Life: A Tribute
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ January 24, 2011
A mystery readers loop I belong to has been discussing the question, "Has a library changed your life?" Since my answer is such an emphatic "Yes!" I want to share the story in detail.Top Ten!
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ January 6, 2011
Okay, life, even the writing life, isn't a popularity contest, but I'll admit to scanning TOP TEN lists just on the chance I might find one of my books there. Well, it did happen in 1996. So you can imagine my delight when I learned from Shannon Taylor Vannatter that my fictional romantic interview made the Top Ten list on her INKSLINGER Blog.Family Relationships: In Life and in Novels
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ December 10, 2010
My guest today is New Jersey mystery writer Chris Redding. Chris is visiting Deeds of Darkness; Deeds of Light as part of her blog tour for her new book Incendiary which releases in electronic format next week. Welcome, Chris, Best of luck with your new release and thank you for your timely holiday thoughts on family relationships.
My "This is Your Life" Signing
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ December 4, 2010
It was great at Rediscovered Books last night. The additional snow held off long enough that the roads were reasonably clear and there was standing room only for my Boise launch party for A VERY PRIVATE GRAVE.Where Ben Ends and Life Begins
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ November 19, 2010
Donna: My guest today is one of my favorite authors, Sally Wright, creator of the exquisitely written Ben Reese Mysteries. Sally, tell us about Ben— the man in the books, the real-life man and the man who lives in your head.
Local Authors' Road Show
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ November 15, 2010
Jason Wilcox, Angela Abderhalden and I had souch a great time sharing a book at the Idaho Book Extravaganza we've decided to take our show on the road. We'll be appearing at Hastings in Meridian this Saturday from Noon to Five.Murder Case: Truth is More Complicated than Fiction
By Fay Sampson ~ November 9, 2010
One of the best meetings this year of our Devon Writers Group was an inside view of a murder enquiry. Detective Superintendent Nigel Boulton talked us through 13 years of leading such investigations.
Did you know, for instance, that bodies, or, more usually, bits of bodies are routinely picked up by fishermen in their nets? That has something to do with our living at the westerly end...
Sam's Club Giveaway
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ November 3, 2010
I was thrilled when my publisher told me that Sam's Club is sellingIdaho Book Extravaganza
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 25, 2010
Meeting readers, connecting with writers, teaching classes on publishing, selling books. . . The First-ever Idaho Book Extrvaganza was an impressive success for all who participated. The mayor of Meridian's opening speech set the theme for the weekend as she expressed her amazement that the Boise Valley was full of so much talent. "We need to do more to get the word out," she declared. Everyone heartily agreed.Louise Penny and Peter Robinson at Wordfest
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 21, 2010
The glorious conclusion to my month-long stay in Calgary was getting to attend Wordfest with my mystery writer friend Linda Kupacek, author ofCanadian Thanksgiving
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 19, 2010
One of the great pleasures of a visit to Canada is how Canadian culture is such a skillful blend of American and English heritage and yet so distinctly Canadian. This seemed especially apparent to me in experiencing my first Canadian Thanksgiving.Book Signings in Calgary
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ October 18, 2010
Canadians are known for their open, welcoming hospitality and after my two book events there last week I can certainly vouch for that being a much-deserved reputation.A Day in the 1800's
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 27, 2010
Writers of historical novels--mysteries or otherwise--are often accused of living mmore in the past than the present--at least, this historical writer is. One of my favorite stories is of taking a chauffered punt ride Cambmridge with my teenage sons. Throughout the ride I discussed the scenes on both sides of the Cam with our escort. Afterwards my sons came up on each side of me and put their arms around me: 'Mom, you're amazing. You know everything.'A Calgary Autumn day
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 24, 2010
A perfect autumn day in Calgary, sunny, golden and crisp.First Wild Card Tour
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 22, 2010
Greetings from Calgary where we had a glorious sunny day--at last! ThisCalgary Report
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 18, 2010
A month in Calgary for a grandchild fix, a chance to do a bit of book promo and enjoy some lovely autumn color long before it comes to our trees south of the border, although I've learned that the iconic red maple leaf doesn't appear in the Alberta praries.What I Learned on my Summer Vacation
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 15, 2010
We have had a string of delightful guests recently on Deeds of Darkness; Deeds of Light, and today I bring you another one. Marian Allen and I have become friends through the wonders of virtual communication. I especially admire her Flash Fiction— telling a short story in two or three sentences— because I am incredibly long-winded. If you ash Marian about it below, I'm sure she will tell you how to get it on your Ereader for free.History and Mystery with a Dash of Romance in the 30's
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 13, 2010
I am delighted to have as my guest today DeAnna Julie Dodson, author of the poMy Life in Crime
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 10, 2010
I am so delighted that today our guest is Veronica Heley, an author much read and loved on both sides of the Atlantic. Veronica has three mystery series which she will tell us all about. Do leave her a comment or ask a question and be on the look-out for her books.And the Winners Are
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ September 4, 2010
A huge and heartfelt THANK YOU to all who entered my giveaway drawing to celebrate the NorthA Hero for All Seasons
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ August 31, 2010
My guest today, coming to us all the way from Manchester, England, is DoloresThe Reward of Patience
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ August 25, 2010
My mother, a very wise woman, always said one should never pray for patience because the Bible says, "Tribulation worketh patience." So she always prayed for strength instead.The Hawk and The Dove
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ August 16, 2010
Way back in the early 1990's when myGentle Reads
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 30, 2010
Dear Gentle Reader— Ah, that lovely phrase snatched from Victorian novels— who would have expected to encounter its like in last Friday’s Wall Street Journal? (7/23/10) The "Dear Book Lover" column by Cynthia Crossen replied to a writer asking for "mysteries. . . for adults that aren’t, well, excessively adult" by saying that many libraries call them "gentle reads".My Rip Van Winkle Experience
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 10, 2010
After more than 20 years as a professional writer and more than 30 books published, I spent 10 years in the wilderness of the unpublished. Coming back has been like starting a whole new career— at a time when most of my friends are retiring. Ten years ago there was no Facebook, no Twitter, there were no Ebooks and no blogs. It’s little wonder, then that I feel like Rip Van Winkle.Edgy Christian Fiction: The Tour
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ July 1, 2010
What is Edgy Christian fiction, and why does it make for the very best in summer reading? A group of exciting and excited-about-our-topic authors will be exploring that subject this month in a first-of-its-kind blog tour which we invite our readers to follow with as much anticipation as we feel.Assault on Mt. Amazon
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ June 30, 2010
"Pick a date and we’ll do an Ebook push," my publisher said. This was my new, young, cutting edge publisher who tells me we’re here to "embrace the technology."My Life on Second Life
By Donna Fletcher Crow ~ June 17, 2010
My children raised me right. Our sons grew up playing Dungeons and Dragons with their friends in our basement and our second son and his wife are enthusiastic members of The Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) so I get it about roleplaying. But I really had no idea what I was getting into when I responded to a note on one of my mystery-reading loops offering author interviews on Second Life.