Happy New Year, dear readers — and welcome to 2026! ✨ I’m excited to share what’s coming next in my writing journey and invite you to be part of it.
If you’ve ever wondered why so many mystery writers talk about fog rolling in, thunderstorms rumbling ominously, or that suspiciously too-sunny afternoon right before all hell breaks loose, you’re not imagining it. Weather and nature aren’t just scenic fluff in mystery writing—they’re secret weapons in our storytelling arsenal. It’s almost as if Mother Nature herself is a bit of a drama queen… but in a good way.
Every year I tell myself I’m only going to read for pleasure.
Every year I immediately lie to myself and start “casually” analysing best sellers like a literary detective with a corkboard and far too much string.
2025 was no exception.
As the year winds down and holiday lights begin to twinkle, many readers turn to novels that mirror the mood of the season — whether it’s the cozy warmth of a small town under snow or the chilling tension of an unexpected crime at a festive gathering. Holiday settings offer a unique backdrop for mysteries and thrillers, blending familiar traditions with suspense, character drama, and sometimes a touch of danger.
Clever Clues, Cozy Whodunits, and Suspenseful Twists That Sleigh
Listen up, sleuths and seasoned page-turners! The holidays are upon us, which means it’s time to swap awkward sweaters, questionable fruitcake, and — most importantly — books. But not just any books. I’m talking about mystery books — the kind that make you say:
Writing is many things: creativity, craft, escape — and, increasingly, brand identity. Over the years I’ve discovered that using different author names for different kinds of stories is more than a convenience. It’s a deliberate strategy that helps me stay true to each genre’s spirit and meet reader expectations without confusion. That’s why I write cosy mysteries, mysteries, and thrillers under Chris Hills Farrow (my real name), and fantasy and science-fiction under Orlan Drake. Here’s why that choice makes sense — and why I believe it strengthens both “brands.”