Erika Chase is a well-known author, celebrated for her Ashton Corners Book Club Mystery series. Chase's real identity is Linda Wiken, a pen name she adopted for her mystery writings. Born in Canada, she has made a significant mark in the mystery genre, with her works published by the reputable Berkley/Penguin Prime Crime.
Before transitioning into a full-time writer, Chase had an extensive career in various fields. She has worked as a radio producer, advertising copywriter, community education worker, and journalist. Her experience in the mystery bookstore industry came from owning Prime Crime Books in Ottawa, Canada. This background has been instrumental in shaping her understanding of the mystery genre, which she has used to great effect in her writing.
In addition to her Ashton Corners Book-Club Mysteries, Chase has written several other books and series under the name Linda Wiken. She has also contributed numerous short stories to different anthologies, including the 7 Ladies Killing Anthologies, and magazines such as Over My Dead Body and Mysterious Intent. Her short stories have been recognized by the Crime Writers of Canada, earning her a shortlisting for the Arthur Ellis Award.
Chase's passion for mysteries is not confined to her writing. She is an avid mystery reader and a member of The Ladies' Killing Circle, a group of short story writers. Besides her love for mysteries, she has a deep interest in choral singing, which has led her to join two choirs. Chase shares her home with two Siamese cats, Mojo and Keesha, who, according to her, allow her to live with them.