Natalie Seachrist Hawaiian Mysteries
Natalie's Sojourns Through Murder...
The Natalie Seachrist Hawaiian Mysteries (published by Artemesia Publishing, LLC) are set in the multicultural and lush environs of Hawai`i. They offer puzzling deaths, snippets of pan-Pacific history…and Natalie’s visions. Each of the books includes: a cast of characters; Hawaiian language summary; a prologue and epilogue; opening chapter aphorisms; notes and acknowledgements; an annotated glossary of Hawaiian and other non-English terms. The paper color of each book varies, but the frames and images within them are presented by the enchanting art of Yasamine June. Her recipe for a delightful Persian New Year’s feast is included in the recipes offered on the above menu!
Sequential Reading?
Unlike some series of novels, you do not have to read mine in sequence to enjoy their revelations. Nevertheless, there is a layering of details about the captivating characters and themes within these multi-layered tales. With the expansion of the linked books, there are unveilings of some aspects of the diverse characters’ lives in the multicultural stories. Even Natalie’s companion, the inimitable Miss Una, has activities within her life that will change over time. In addition, there are links to the fascinating lives of some characters’ family members before and during the action that occurs within the pages of these volumes. Also, I can promise that there will be surprises in the books to come!
Natalie’s Life in Hawai`i
Protagonist Natalie Seachrist is a semi-retired journalist who has lived in Hawai`i during many phases of her life being the daughter of a naval officer. During the early days of her career, she specialized in writing articles for travel magazines,,,and was sometimes called on to perform on-air reporting of international incidents. From her early childhood, she has experienced visions. Although they usually featured members of her family, with the passing of time, she has become visited by images less personal...and definitely less enjoyable! As you will learn in each of these books, her prescient visions now drive much of the crime- solving activity that marks her life.
Natalie’s Companions
I hope you will enjoy meeting the interesting companions who surround Natalie Seachrist. The first and closest is her fraternal twin Nathan, a psychologist who often responds negatively affected by her visions. Her daily…and nightly…buddy is feline Miss Una, a silent but fleet-footed tortoise-shell. Initially a friend, PI Ke`oni Hewitt, joins in the investigation after having needed her research skills previously. They are soon joined by his former partner in detection, Lieutenant John Dias of the Honolulu Police Department. After aiding in Natalie’s tragic first exploration of murder, he becomes her stalwart companion. Through the passing of this time of crisis, they become far more!
Prospect for Murder
Hardcover: 9781932926453 ~ Softcover: 9781932926880
Ebook: 9781932926477 ~ E-Audio: 9781932926484
2017 NEW MEXICO/ARIZONA BOOK AWARDS
Winner, Cover Design- Fiction (6x9) ~ Finalist, Mystery-Suspense
Writer Natalie Seachrist has always had visions. But envisioning the body of her grandniece draped over a vintage Mustang shatters her world. Aided by her friend private investigator Ke`oni Hewitt (and her cat Miss Una), Natalie moves to the Honolulu foothills apartment where Ariel died. There she discovers the Shànghăi origins of the complex’s owners…and a bit of discord. Will she learn the truth about the unlikely death before the case is closed? Or has she put herself in the way of a murderer who is willing to kill again to hide their secret?
DJ Sakata, Good Reads, 4.5 Stars
Being a resident of Hawaii, I could not pass up a murder mystery based in Honolulu. It was thrilling while at the same time oddly relaxing to read a story with so many local references to places, food, culture, and traits....The writing was insightful, observant, emotive, and intelligent...
Midwest Book Review
A deftly crafted and impressively engaging read from cover to cover, "Prospect for Murder" clearly demonstrates novelist Jeanne Burrows-Johnson as a master of the mystery/suspense genre...”
AudioBook Reviewer, Audible
[She] did an excellent job of reading the book. The enunciation and clearness of her speech as well as the passion was not over the top or fake…Her voice was soothing and calming.
Murder on Mokulua Drive
Hardcover: 9781932926606 ~ Softcover: 9781932926804 ~ Ebook: 9781932926620
2018 ARIZONA LITERARY EXCELLENCE CONTEST
2nd PLACE, Published Fiction
2018 NEW MEXICO/ARIZONA BOOK AWARDS
Winner, Cover Design-Fiction (6x9) ~ Finalist, Mystery-Cozy
Natalie, her mischievous cat Miss Una, and boyfriend Keʻoni Hewitt have moved to a Lanikai cottage on the island of Oʻahu. Unfortunately their seaside bliss evaporates when her chilling vision is confirmed by the moonlit garroting of someone they just met. Discovery of a suspect’s body at Diamond Head Beach may have solved the case. But touring historic Kawai Nui Marsh puts Natalie and her new friends in the crosshairs of a wily adversary. Does the murder's resolution lie in the victim’s past, or among her seemingly innocuous companions?
Prospect for Murder is available as
a downloadable audio file!
Kirkus Reviews
...a winsomely detailed setting . . . the protagonist is first-rate. The plot offers a couple of impressive twists…A diverting tale led by a smashing amateur detective whose dexterity far exceeds her paranormal gift.
Manhatten Book Review, 4.5 Stars
The use of Hawaiian words and explanations was also a very nice touch, making me feel that I was part of the local culture…The story had many layers as well as some twists and turns, which kept me glued to the pages...
N. Jones, Amazon, 5 Stars
This is my first Natalie Seachrist story, but won't be my last. The story was quick paced, yet lingered appropriately on Hawaii life. The author took time to develop each character, and ensure their place in the story was appropriate.
Below is my draft for the cover of
Murder on Mokulua Drive...
Artist Yasamine June and I work closely together on the art for the
Natalie Seachrist Hawaiian Mysteries…this was one of my best artistic attempts at a starting point…
Murders of Conveyance
Hardcover: 9781932926729 ~ Softcover: 9781951122065
Ebook: 9781932926736
2019 NEW MEXICO/ARIZONA BOOK AWARDS
Winner, Adventure-Drama ~ Finalist Cover Design- Fiction (6x9)
Journalist Natalie Seachrist and her boyfriend private investigator Keʻoni Hewett are delighted to plunge into a Chinese New Year Aloha Scavenger Hunt. But when she realizes a recent haunting dream is actually one of her continuing visions of murder, the pair again volunteer to help his former partner, HPD homicide detective Lieutenant John Dias. Soon Natalie’s expanding visions and the unrelenting assistance of feline companion Miss Una link two murders separated by sixty years to a mysterious woman dressed in red... and a false clue hinting at a priceless white jade Kuan Yin statue.
Kirkus Reviews
The author’s bountiful details explore Hawaii’s history and culture, as scavenger hunt clues direct Natalie and Keoni to historical landmarks and the inquiry includes Chinatown in Honolulu…A whodunit as smart and engrossing as the unlikely gumshoe.
Michael Radon, US Book Review 4 stars of 5
The pace of this story naturally transitions from the scavenger hunt and its locales to the identity of the murderer...and gives the reader a grounded perspective before launching them into the action.
Tamara Benson, San Francisco Book Review 4 stars
…The descriptions of each destination and the players' race during the scavenger hunt are well done and leave the reader ready to book-travel to see the sights first-hand. ..And, of course, any murder mystery that involves a cat is a winner from the start...
Frank Kaleba, Amazon Book Review 5 stars
A swirling mix of the Asian immigrant experience, a modern scavenger hunt, revenge and murder, all set onto the perfumed tropical stage that is Oahu…As I read it, I was sure I was tagging along with Natalie, enjoying the sights, tastes and excitement of the tropics.
Yen for Murder
Softcover: 9781951122850 ~ Ebook: 9781951122867
Published in June 2024
In recent years, Natalie Seachrist has had visions beyond her family and community. But she surprisingly, experiences one of a Buddhist minister murdered at her altar. Later, while viewing an antique auction brochure, Natalie and her life partner Keʻoni Hewitt see an ancient statue of the Shākyamuni Buddha. When he realizes it was stolen during a case that haunted the end of his career with the Honolulu Police Department, the pair soon dive into the realm of international auctions. Aided by the nimble feline Miss Una, surprising objects emerge from unlikely places. Did the crimes of murder and larceny arise from ambitions for wealth, or religious zeal? Can the conjoined cases be solved, or will the scanty evidence simply be returned to HPD’s cold case files?
Kirkus Reviews
A flavorful dip into Hawaii’s cross-cultural currents amid cozy mystery sleuthing
…Natalie has intriguing visions—this time, about the killing of a female minister in a Buddhist temple as its Buddha statue is stolen...Arizona-based author Burrows-Johnson lived in Hawaii for two decades, and her love for the state infuses this sensory-and fact-filled narrative, providing readers enjoyment and education regarding the Hawaiian lifestyle, history, and culture...
Jennifer Soper, US Review of Books
Recommended by the US Review of Books
...a mix of mystery, history, and the supernatural... One of the story’s standout elements is its richly drawn setting...Beyond the murder mystery, the story touches on the concept of fate versus free will as Natalie grapples with the responsibility of her visions and how they influence the unfolding events. The historical and artistic details make the story feel even richer, appealing to readers who enjoy mysteries with an intellectual edge.
David K, AuthorsReading.com
…a mesmerizing blend of mystery, history, and the supernatural…This book is more than a murder mystery—it’s a journey through Hawaii’s vibrant landscapes, a glimpse into its rich history, and an introduction to the Buddhist religion. Drawing from her years of living in Hawaii, the Arizona-based author infuses the story with vivid descriptions of the islands' lush scenery and cultural traditions. Burrows-Johnson not only immerses readers in the beauty of Hawaii but also educates them about its deep heritage, seamlessly blending storytelling with her insight…The result is an immersive and heartwarming tale that leaves a lasting impression on readers.
What’s next for Natalie?
Yen for Murder was completed just before my wonderful editor, Viki Gillespie took a long-deserved vacation to the British Isles!
She's now helping me with A Spineless Murder which will bring you Natalie's visions of a Christmas in Honolulu during World War II...
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A top 50 pick by Southwest Books of the Year 2012
A printed and audio anthology of fiction and non-fiction literature written and narrated by
Tucson, Arizona, co-authors: Bill Black, Jeanne Burrows-Johnson, Susan Cosby-Patton,
Kay Lesh, Patricia Noble, and Larry Sakin.
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