Teresa Michael

Mysteries with a touch of romance.

Frequently Asked Questions

About My Books

What kinds of books do you write? I write award‑winning cozy mysteries with a touch of romance, filled with community, charm, and a touch of mischief—stories where the clues are clever, the characters are warm, and justice arrives with a satisfying flourish.

Where should new readers start? Each mystery stands on its own, but starting with the first book in a series lets you meet the characters as they meet each other.

  • Mariposa Café Mysteries Reading Order:
    • Murder in Mariposa Beach
    • Mistletoe and Missing Persons – a Holiday Novella
    • Deception in Mariposa Beach
    • Redemption in Mariposa Beach
  • Harrington House Bed-and Breakfast Mysteries Reading Order:
    • Murder with a Terrace View
    • The Wedding Planner’s Secret

Do your books need to be read in order? Not at all. You can jump in anywhere. Reading in order simply lets you enjoy the evolving friendships, romances, and town traditions.

Are your books available in print, ebook, and audiobook? Yes—my titles are available in multiple formats so you can enjoy them however you prefer. Murder in Mariposa Beach, Mistletoe and Missing Persons, Deception in Mariposa Beach, and The Mariposa Café Origin Stories are available as audiobooks.

How often do you release new books? I typically publish one new mystery a year, along with occasional short stories, bonus content, and seasonal surprises.

About Mariposa Beach and River Crest

Are Mariposa Beach and River Crest based on real places? They’re fictional towns. Mariposa Beach is inspired by old Florida beach towns with their hotels and bars near the beach, cottages, cafes, and community life in a small Florida town. River Crest is inspired by the textures of Midwestern life and Ohio River towns—river bends, historic districts, cozy cafés, and the kind of neighbors who know your favorite pie flavor.

Will I see recurring characters across multiple books? Absolutely. Part of the joy of a cozy mystery is returning to familiar faces and quirky characters. You’ll see friendships deepen, rivalries spark, and beloved characters grow from book to book.

Do you base your mysteries on real cases? No. My stories are entirely fictional, though they’re often sparked by everyday curiosities, overheard conversations, and the delightful quirks of small‑town life.

Are there Easter eggs or cross‑series connections? Yes—sharp‑eyed readers may spot subtle nods between Mariposa Beach and River Crest. Before Libby moved to Mariposa Beach, she lived in the River Crest area of Ohio.  I love the interconnections between the characters and stories.

About My Writing Life

What inspired you to write cozy mysteries? I’ve always loved stories where community matters, where humor softens tension, and where cleverness solves the puzzle. Cozy mysteries let me blend all of that with heart.

Do you have a writing routine? I write most days, usually with a cup of something warm nearby and Lily the cat supervising from her preferred perch watching the birds in the feeder outside the window.

Reader & Community Connections

How can readers contact you? You’re welcome to reach out through my website’s contact form or connect with me on social media.

Do you respond to reader messages? I do my best to reply when I can. Hearing from readers is one of the great joys of this work.

Do you offer book club visits? Yes—virtual visits are available, and in‑person visits may be possible depending on location and schedule.

Do you have a newsletter? Yes. My newsletter includes release updates, behind‑the‑scenes notes, event announcements, and occasional treats from Kingston and River Crest.

Events, Speaking, & Professional Requests

How can I invite you to speak at an event or conference? Please use the contact form to share details about your event. I regularly speak on writing craft, cozy mystery structure, world‑building, and the publishing journey.

Do you offer mentoring or critiques? I occasionally provide critiques or workshops through writing organizations and special programs. Availability varies throughout the year.

Are you available for judging contests or anthology submissions? Yes—please reach out with your timeline and guidelines.