Books in Order: A Deep Dive into the Engaging World of Author Joan Hess
About the Author: Joan Hess
Joan Hess, a renowned American novelist, has left an indelible mark on the realm of mystery literature. Her prominent works include the gripping Claire Malloy series and the intriguing Arly Hanks series, alternatively known as the Maggody mystery series. With a background in art from the University of Arkansas and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Development from Long Island University, Hess carries a unique academic perspective to the table.
Hess’s journey into the world of letters was not instant but a result of persistence and trial. Encouraged by a friend to dabble in novel writing, Hess tried her hands at romance before finding her true calling—mystery. Today, she resides in Austin, Texas and takes great delight in spending time with her twin grandchildren.
Joan Hess: A Unique Writing Style
Hess’s writing style is characterized by an intricate level of detail and profound character development, making her mystery novels deeply engaging. Her readers are ushered into a world of suspense and intrigue, deftly woven by her ability to develop an intricate plot while maintaining high readability.
Books in Order: Joan Hess’s Captivating Mystery Series
Hess made her debut in the literary world with the riveting mystery novel, Strangled Prose in 1986. The following is a list of Joan Hess’ books in order of their original publication dates:
Publication Order of Claire Malloy Books
| Strangled Prose | (1985) |    |
| The Murder at the Murder at the Mimosa Inn | (1986) | |
| Dear Miss Demeanor | (1987) | |
| A Really Cute Corpse | (1988) | |
| A Diet to Die For | (1989) | |
| Roll Over and Play Dead | (1991) | |
| Death by the Light of the Moon | (1992) | |
| Poisoned Pins | (1993) | |
| To Kill a Husband | (1994) | |
| Tickled to Death | (1994) | |
| Busy Bodies | (1995) | |
| Closely Akin to Murder | (1996) | |
| A Holly, Jolly Murder | (1997) | |
| A Conventional Corpse | (2000) | |
| Out on a Limb | (2002) | |
| The Goodbye Body | (2005) | |
| Damsels in Distress | (2007) | |
| Mummy Dearest | (2008) | |
| Deader Homes and Gardens | (2012) | |
| Murder as a Second Language | (2013) | |
| Pride v. Prejudice | (2015) | |