Dorothy Cannell

Dorothy Cannell is a British-American mystery novelist best known for her cozy mystery series featuring Ellie Haskell, which began with "The Thin Woman" in 1984. Born in England in 1943, Cannell emigrated to the United States in 1963 and became an American citizen. She established herself as a writer of humorous mystery novels that often incorporate elements of Gothic romance and domestic life. The Ellie Haskell series remains her most recognized work, following the adventures of an interior decorator turned amateur sleuth. Her books are characterized by their blend of mystery, wit, and observations of English village life. Beyond the Ellie Haskell series, Cannell wrote the Florence Norris Mystery series and several standalone novels. She received an Agatha Award nomination for Best Novel and has been recognized for her contributions to the cozy mystery genre.

Readers consistently describe Cannell's mysteries as cozy and humorous, with quirky characters and witty dialogue. Her Ellie Haskell series receives the most attention and commentary from fans. Readers praise: - The blend of mystery and comedy - British village settings and atmosphere - Character development across series - Clean content without graphic violence - Clever plotting and red herrings Common criticisms: - Plots can be slow-moving - Heavy use of coincidences to resolve mysteries - Some find the humor forced or overdone - Later books in series feel repetitive - Characters sometimes act unrealistically Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: Most books average 3.8-4.1 out of 5 stars Amazon: Typically 4+ out of 5 stars "The Thin Woman" (her most reviewed book): - Goodreads: 3.9/5 (4,800+ ratings) - Amazon: 4.2/5 (300+ ratings) One frequent reader comment: "Like a cross between Agatha Christie and P.G. Wodehouse"

The Thin Woman An overweight ghostwriter inherits a country house with conditions attached, leading her into a murder mystery involving family secrets.

Down the Garden Path A landscaper discovers dark secrets while working on a garden renovation project at an English country estate.

The Widows Club A group of wealthy widows becomes embroiled in mystery when their members begin dying under suspicious circumstances.

How to Murder Your Mother-in-Law A woman facing troubles with her mother-in-law finds herself investigating when the difficult woman disappears.

How to Murder the Man of Your Dreams An interior decorator becomes involved in solving a murder at a historic manor house.

The Spring Cleaning Murders A domestic organization expert encounters murder while helping clients declutter their homes.

The Importance of Being Ernestine Amateur sleuth Ellie Haskell investigates a mystery involving her husband's old school and a missing student.

Bridesmaids Revisited Ellie Haskell returns to her old boarding school to solve a mystery involving her former roommates.

The Trouble With Harriet A woman deals with complications after her father arrives with the preserved body of his recently deceased companion.

Goodbye, Ms. Chips A mystery unfolds at a girls' boarding school when a teacher is found dead during a reunion weekend.

She Shoots to Conquer Ellie Haskell investigates suspicious events during a country house weekend involving aristocrats and firearms.

Withering Heights A housewife turned detective searches for answers when strange occurrences plague a historic Yorkshire mansion.