Livia J. Washburn

Livia J. Washburn, also known as Livia Reasoner, is an acclaimed American author with a writing career spanning over three decades. She has made a name for herself in the genres of mystery, western, romance, and historical fiction. Washburn has written under various pen names, including Elizabeth Hallam, Livia Hallam, Livia James, J.L. Reasoner, Livia Reasoner, L.J. Washburn, and her most well-known pen names, Livia J. Washburn.

Washburn's writing journey began while she was in high school, when she started dating her future husband, James Reasoner. As she typed his manuscripts, she found herself contemplating different ways each story could unfold. While writing comes naturally to her husband, Washburn admits to struggling and "banging her head on her computer" at times. The couple lived together in a house they built themselves, but unfortunately, they lost it in a fire caused by a neighbor.

In addition to her writing, Washburn is an accomplished carpenter who enjoys photography, arts, crafts, and cooking. She takes pleasure in having a pile of lumber, a circular saw, and a building project to work on. Over the years, she has built numerous shelves and even framed several houses. When she's not writing or working on a building project, Washburn can be found in her garage or kitchen, creating something new. She has received several awards for her work, including the Private Eye Writers of America award, the American Mystery award, and the Peacemaker Award from Western Fictioneers. Washburn currently resides in the Texas countryside with her husband and their dogs.