Susan Bernhardt is the author of two acclaimed mystery series: the Kay Driscoll Mysteries and the Irina Curtius Mysteries. Her works include "The Ginseng Conspiracy," "Murder Under the Tree," "Murder by Fireworks," and "Paradise Can Be Murder," among others in the Kay Driscoll series, as well as "A Manhattan Murder Mystery" and "Dress to Kill" in the Irina Curtius series. Drawing inspiration from her hometown in northern Wisconsin, Bernhardt crafts cozy mysteries that blend small-town charm with intricate plots and multidimensional characters. Her writing has been praised for its vivid settings, well-paced dialogue, and artful integration of themes like justice and community.
A retired public health nurse, Bernhardt infuses her protagonist Kay Driscoll with authenticity, reflecting her own volunteer work at a local free clinic. Her novels often feature culinary elements, such as Sweet Marissa's Patisserie serving as a crime-solving hub, alongside cultural touches like art and music. The Irina Curtius series, set in Manhattan, showcases her ability to capture urban life with the same depth, earning acclaim for its suspenseful storytelling and richly detailed characters. Bernhardt's mastery of the cozy mystery genre lies in her skillful balance of red herrings, plot twists, and relatable protagonists.
Bernhardt is a member of Sisters in Crime, Inc. and the Wisconsin Writers Association. When not writing, she enjoys traveling, kayaking, gardening, and working with stained glass. She resides in northern Wisconsin with her husband and remains an avid reader of mysteries, often staying up late with a book and chocolate - a passion that subtly enriches her engaging narratives.