While traveling, be it by bus, train, or plane, have you noticed that quite a few of the passengers are reading to pass the time?  Not long ago my husband and I were at the Mid Coast Medical Center getting our COVID-19 shots. Per instructions, I waited my 30 minutes before leaving.  I looked around me and observed several people sitting with open books.  The librarian in me was curious as to what they were reading.  I was pleasantly surprised to see that at least four were reading mysteries.  What does this tell you about Maine readers?

Although Maine's Stephen King has been called the father of thrillers I'm going to recommend a few of Maine's award-winning and very talented mystery writers. There is something for everyone.

Bruce Coffin writes the Portland Police Detective series. His latest 2020 (“Within Plain Sight”). You will recognize Portland and its surroundings. He will draw you into his story. Hard to put down.

Paul Doiron's latest in the Game Warden Mike Bowditch series 2020 (“One Last Lie”). If you love the woods, nature and crime this is for you.

Tess Gerritsen, a retired physician is well known for her medical examiner series. Her latest however is a stand alone 2021 (“On the Edge”).

Linda Greenlaw writes maritime mysteries. Her last is “Bimini Twist” (2018).

Gerry Boyle's latest in the reporter Jack Morrow series is “Random Act” (2019).

James Hayman's most recent thriller is “Fatal Obsession” (2018).

Julia Spencer-Fleming writes the Episcopal Priest series. The latest is “Hid From Our Eyes” (2020).

Kate Flora's latest in her Thea Kozak series is “Death Comes Knocking” (2020).

Sarah Graves writes cozy mysteries. Her latest is “Death by Snickerdoodle” (2021).  Fun!

Lea Wait is another well read cozy writer. Her last book is “Thread and Buried” (2019).

Barbara Ross is also part of the Cozy mystery genre. Look for “Shucked Apart” (2021).

Happy reading mystery lovers!