Melodie Johnson Howe Books in Order

Melodie Johnson Howe is a renowned mystery author and former actress. She has been writing since childhood, crafting plays such as Nevada, a western with a unique twist where the villain is sent to his room. As a seasoned actress, she spent over a decade working in the film industry alongside notable actors like Clint Eastwood, Alan Alda, and James Caan. In the early 1980s, she transitioned from the Hollywood spotlight to pursue her passion for writing mysteries. Her debut novel, The Mother Shadow (1989), introduced Claire Conrad and Maggie Hill, described as the female counterparts to the iconic duo Nero Wolfe and Archie Goodwin. Nominated for an Edgar Award, The Mother Shadow was followed by the sequel Beauty Dies (1994). Howe has also garnered acclaim for her short fiction, showcasing her versatility as a writer. Her latest collection, Shooting Hollywood: The Diana Poole Stories (2012), is a captivating series of short stories about a forty-year-old actress striving for a comeback.