JanDunlap.com

Now that the fifth Birder Murder – A Murder of Crows – is safely in the hands of my publisher, I’m planning to take a writing break this summer and instead, do some birding! Two weekends ago, my hubby and I explored the Rapids Lake unit of the Minnesota River Valley and were thrilled with the variety of habitat there. We saw a dozen birds as we stepped out of the car, and the place was thick with Baltimore Orioles and Rose-breasted Grosbeaks. It was such a treat to actually get out and see the birds I write about!

A Murder of Crows is slated for release in September, and I’m already lining up booksignings and appearances.

Happy Spring!… ...more...

Where can you find 32 mystery writers gathered together to celebrate spring?

At Once Upon A Crime, the award-winning mystery bookshop in Minneapolis!

This Saturday, I’m one of the 34 authors who have contributed original short stories to “Writes of Spring,” a mystery anthology in honor of OUAC’s 25th anniversary. My story, titled “Hanging Luce,” is about a side of his fiance that even Bob doesn’t know about!

Here’s what reviewers have to say about the anthology: “An inspired volume of original stories.” –PUBLISHERS WEEKLY “…belongs on every serious mystery reader’s bookshelf.” –Ed Gorman “…a tasty, mysterious delight.” –Minneapolis Star Tribune. All profits from the book go to the… ...more...

Though I live in Minnesota, I teach English online for New Mexico State University in Carlsbad. Most of the time, I like the arrangement; since I’m states away from my students, I don’t have to worry about any of them confronting me about their grades when I’m sniffing cantaloupes at the grocery store or sipping a chocolate cooler at Caribou Coffee.

But today, I’m bummed that I don’t live near campus. They’re having a special event in the gym, and I would SO like to be there.

It’s Giant Inflatable Colon day.

“Oh my gosh,” I told my husband and daughter. “We are totally missing out on seeing the Giant Inflatable Colon. It’s a health project for the university. I wonder if it’s big enough to walk… ...more...