Alice Kanaka is a cozy mystery writer whose novels feature intriguing characters, clever plot twists, and just the right amount of heart. You’ll find outdoor adventure, delicious food, laugh-out-loud moments, loyal friendships, and endearing pets—all wrapped around satisfying whodunit puzzles.

Over the course of 35 moves across 7 countries, Alice has always written. Languages and literature were her favorite subjects from an early age. Short stories as a child, a weekly newspaper column in high school, two unpublished books as a young adult, articles and short stories on Minds.com and Medium.com, and a travel blog called Exploring With Alice all paved the way for her current full-time writing career.

Twelve years at a state psychiatric hospital gave her deep insight into social work, mental health, medications, and treatment. Two degrees, three languages, extensive travel, and her innate curiosity and sense of adventure lend a distinctive edge to her mysteries. That love of learning shines through every book, inviting readers to discover and experience life alongside her characters.

Alice taught English in Japan for seven years and is a lifetime member of Sisters in Crime. She publishes short stories in Executive Function Magazine and has been a guest on the Focus on Success podcast. Of Winter Wonderdach, Self-Publishing Review says, “Charming and lighthearted, but also crafted with delicious suspense, this clever whodunit is an authentically page-turning mystery.”

Of Bumfuzzle and Cattywampus, Independent Book Review writes: “When you hear the words ‘mystery novel,’ you rarely expect a delight. You think of murder, crime, investigation, stress, but what about warmth, humor and friendship? That is exactly what Alice Kanaka has achieved with Trouble at the Buckeye Festival. Like a cozy tale written for adult children who refused to grow up, this book is as fun as it is charming.”

Pick up one of Alice Kanaka’s books and you’ll want to read them all. Sign up for her mailing list to become part of the community. She loves hearing from readers—whether you’re sharing constructive feedback, asking questions, or just saying hello.