Cozy Mysteries and Coastal Charm: A Conversation with Author Judy C. Tierney

If you're a fan of cozy mysteries set in charming coastal towns, you'll love this episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast. Host Jed Doherty sits down with author Judy C. Tierney to discuss her latest novel, "Washashore Murders," as well as her memoir "Passing Time in the Winter Block Island Style."
Judy shares her personal connection to Block Island, having been a year-round resident for many years after initially visiting as a summer person. She describes the serene beauty of the island in the off-season, from stargazing under the Milky Way to braving the dramatic nor'easters. This island setting serves as the inspiration for the fictional Northeaster Island, the backdrop for her mystery novel.
The main character, Dita Redmond, is a young newspaper writer who, like many of Judy's real-life acquaintances, has chosen to prolong her post-college years on the island. Judy and Jed discuss the lack of clear rites of passage in modern society and how this can lead to an extended "Peter Pan" phase for some young adults.
As for the mystery itself, Judy explains her preference for the classic "cozy" style, focusing more on the puzzle-solving aspect than graphic violence. She shares how she often surprises herself as the story evolves, sometimes even switching up the identity of the killer. Jed is fascinated by Judy's diverse background, from psychiatric nursing to newspaper reporting, and how these experiences have influenced her writing.
Whether you're a longtime resident of Connecticut or simply love discovering new authors, this episode is a delightful exploration of small-town life, the writing process, and the art of the cozy mystery. Grab a cup of tea and get ready to be transported to the windswept shores of Northeaster Island.