Does anyone else have old, favorite books they pull out when they feel sick or just need to spend some time with the familiar and the comfortable? One of my favorite comfort authors is Elizabeth Cadell. She published her first book in 1946, but I didn't "discover" her until the mid 60's when I began making my way through the adult fiction section of our local library. Since she was shelved in the "C" section, she was one of the first women's fiction writers I came across and it was love at first sight.

I loved the characters she created and the humor she brought to her storytelling. Her last book was published in 1987, well, until recently when her heirs authorized the publication of her biography, which includes a story that has never been published in book form, called Death and Miss Dane. It was so fun to read about how EC got her ideas and more than fun to have a new book to read. 

After discovering a website devoted to EC, I've managed to collect all her titles, though some are very rare and very expensive. I find it interesting that publishers continue to reissue Georgette Heyer titles (another of my comfort authors), but have so far ignored Elizabeth Cadell.

If you visit the website, you'll find links to buy the newly released biography/novel, information about EC's books and a link to join a discussion group about the author's books. Through this list, I've "discovered" some other great, vintage authors, not to mention having the fun of discussing EC's books with other fans.

As an author myself, I am impressed by the fact that EC's first published novel was as well written as her last. She explored romance, mystery and even a bit of paranormal, but always delivered a great story and a heart warming romance. She is one of the authors that lit in my heart the desire to become a writer. As I sit here typing this blog, I only have to turn to my head to see her books on my shelf. 

If you haven't "met" EC's books yet, and you love classic, vintage story telling, the kind of books you can give to your teenage daughter without worrying, then you should check her out. Many of her books are still available at the library, though they are slowly disappearing. And if you like to read about how authors get their ideas and where their books came from, then stop by the website and check out Death and Miss Dane and EC's biography.

I'll also be giving away a copy of Death and Miss Dane in an upcoming contest. Subscribers to my newsletter will hear about it first. :-)

Perilously yours,
Pauline