Tracy Gardner is a successful American author, known for her cozy mystery novels. She has written two series, the Avery Ayers Antique Mysteries and the Shepherd Sisters Mysteries. One of her notable works, Ruby Red Herring, has been nominated for an Edgar Award.
Gardner was born in Detroit and was raised in a family of educators. Her parents, both teachers, instilled in her a love for learning and a passion for writing. As a child, she was influenced by rock n roll and Nancy Drew mysteries, which sparked her interest in storytelling. She now resides in Florida and is a mother to three children and a menagerie of pets.
In addition to her cozy mystery novels, Gardner also writes women's fiction under the pseudonym Jess Sinclair. She is represented by Fran Black of Literary Counsel. Her work has been recognized by the New York Public Library, which included Ruby Red Herring in their Best 100 books of 2021. She is also a finalist for the 2022 Mary Higgins Clark Award.
Gardner is also the author of the Shepherd Sisters Mysteries, Hallmark Publishing's first cozy mystery series. The series, which includes the books Out of the Picture, A Picture of Murder, and Picture Perfect, is set in a small Lake Michigan town and follows the story of Savanna Shepherd, an Art Authenticator turned elementary art teacher, and her sisters as they solve murder mysteries.
Gardner is a strong believer in the power of baked goods, live music, and girlfriend therapy as staples to a happy life. She continues to write and publish her work, captivating readers with her engaging and intriguing stories.