Laura Levine is a well-known American author, particularly celebrated for her cozy mystery novels, specifically the Jaine Austen series. Although she has been a writer for many years, she did not become a novelist right away. Levine has drawn inspiration for her writing from famous authors such as Agatha Christie, Anne Tyler, and Joe Keenan.
Growing up in Brooklyn, New York, Levine developed her writing skills at Barnard College and began her career as a reporter/photographer for a small local newspaper. She later transitioned into advertising, where she created the iconic Count Chocula and Frankenberry cereals for General Mills. Afterward, she moved into television, writing for popular sitcoms such as The Bob Newhart Show, Three’s Company, Laverne & Shirley, The Love Boat, The Jeffersons, and Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman.
In her current role as a novelist, Levine is dedicated to writing the Jaine Austen series, which she began in 2002 with the publication of “This Pen for Hire.” She has since published at least one book in the series every year, demonstrating her commitment to the genre and her fans. When she’s not writing, Levine enjoys spending her time reading, swimming, gardening, and taking walks. She is married to business journalist Mark Lacter and considers herself lucky to be a writer in the mystery and thriller genres.