How I Named My Sleuth (Hint: It Was a Cat)
“Simba, ever watchful while I write a mystery…”
How I Named My Sleuth (Hint: It Was a Cat)
There’s a lot that goes into writing a mystery. Twists, clues, red herrings, suspects, but one of the first and most important decisions? Naming your sleuth.
When I began sketching out the world for my cozy mystery series, I knew I wanted a heroine who was smart, creative, a little scarred, and a lot determined. I didn’t want her to be a cop or detective. I wanted her to be someone like us. So I gave her a name that felt timeless and just a bit theatrical: Seraphina Beckett.
“Seraphina” has an old-world elegance. It’s not overly common, but it lingers. It says, this person might surprise you. And “Beckett”? That’s a nod to the theater. (You’ll find quite a few stage-inspired breadcrumbs in her backstory.)
But the truth? The very first name that stuck wasn’t hers. It was her cat’s.
Simba, her blue-eyed Siamese with a sixth sense for danger, came to me long before I figured out the murder. He’s the one who mirrors her moods, warns her of shady suspects, and occasionally steals the scene.
So, in a way, it was Simba who named the sleuth. Because I needed someone who could match that energy—who could be clever but vulnerable, curious but not jaded. Someone who, like Simba, could trust her instincts.
Naming a sleuth isn’t just about sound. It’s about spirit. And once I found hers, the rest of the story started to fall into place.
Do you have a favorite fictional sleuth (human or feline)? Let me know in the comments!
🖋️ Until next time,
Meg Ryder
Welcome to the Blog
This is where I’ll occasionally share what’s brewing in the world of Meg Ryder — from behind-the-scenes peeks at upcoming mysteries to cozy recommendations and updates from Alderhaven.
I’m so glad you’re here. More posts coming soon!
What makes a Cozy Mystery?
🕵️♀️ What Makes a Cozy Mystery So...Cozy?
If you're anything like me, there's nothing better than curling up with a mystery that offers just enough suspense to keep you turning pages—but with characters you'd actually want to have tea with.
Cozy mysteries are a special kind of storytelling magic. The bodies may fall (gracefully, of course), but the stories always promise a sense of comfort, connection, and cleverness.
So what exactly makes a mystery cozy?
1. A charming setting
From coastal villages to bookshops, bakeries, and B&Bs, cozy mysteries often take place in places we’d happily move into—if not for the occasional murder. These settings aren’t just backdrops; they’re characters in their own right.
2. An amateur sleuth with heart
Whether it’s a former librarian, a quippy cat café owner, or a playwright-turned-bookstore-owner (hello!), cozy sleuths bring a unique perspective to their cases. They solve crimes not because it’s their job—but because they care.
3. Quirky side characters
Every cozy town comes with its fair share of gossip, grudges, and well-meaning meddlers. And let’s not forget the local law enforcement who alternately help and hinder the investigation.
4. A puzzle to untangle
There’s always a mystery worth solving—but without the gore or grit of darker crime fiction. Just enough clues, red herrings, and “aha!” moments to keep your brain ticking while your tea stays warm.
5. A touch of warmth (and often, whiskers)
Many cozies come with a cat, a dog, or another lovable companion. They’re not just cute—they often know who to trust before the humans do.
Whether you're a lifelong cozy reader or just discovering the genre, I’m so glad you’ve found your way here. My stories are filled with the things I love most: unexpected clues, heartwarming friendships, and a little light mischief served with your mystery.
Have a favorite cozy mystery series or sleuth? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!
🫖 Until next time,
Meg Ryder