Sleigh Bell Tower

Overview of the Braxton Campus Mysteries

Overview of the Braxton Campus MysteriesWhen I decided to write a cozy mystery series, I adhered to all the main rules (light investigations, minimal violence or foul language, no s****l content, murder happens off-screen, protagonist is an amateur sleuth, and set in a quiet, small town). Some authors push the boundaries with variations, and in the Braxton Campus Mysteries, I followed the same route… just differently. Kellan, my protagonist, is a thirtyish single father, whereas traditionally a woman is the main character. Children aren't often seen in most series, but Kellan's family is important to the story. Kellan is also witty and snarky, but intended in a lovable and charming way, just like his eccentric grandmother, Nana D. Both are friendly, happy, and eager to help others, and they have a sarcastic or sassy way of interacting and building relationships… hopefully adding to the humor and tone of the books. Cozy mysteries are different from hard-boiled investigations, thrillers, and suspense novels; the side stories, surrounding town, and background characters are equally important to building a vibrant world in which readers can escape. I hope you enjoy my alternative take on this classic sub-genre.

Sleigh Bell Tower is the 8th book in the series, and the title, as always, is a play on words: Sleigh Bell and Bell Tower. I trust you'll figure out all the connections within the mystery, especially given the Christmas focus in this book. I felt so much excitement sharing my family's traditions and ways of celebrating. I've wanted to write a holiday-themed story for years, but I had to line up the timing both in the series and with the release date. Finally, it happened with this one! I love the concept of Braxton's Winter Gala; tossing in a hotel story along with so many connections to various characters has been incredibly fun.

While each book's main mystery is stand-alone, I recommend reading the series in order because of the side stories and character progression. I provide a summary of the key characters at the beginning of each book because there are a lot to remember. To date in the series, we're at 150 characters. In this book, I keep it to under 40, some of whom are minor connections to the past. Don't get overwhelmed! I'm only trying to create a family and setting we fall in love with and want to repeatedly visit. I hope you enjoy this book.

-Jay

Welcome to Braxton, Wharton County

(Map drawn by Timothy J. R. Rains, Cartographer)