Meet the face
behind the posts

If you’ve ever wondered why there are two s’s in “Lissa,” you’re not alone. My parents chose Melissa as my formal name—pronounced “Muh-leesa”—and over the years I’ve answered to Lissa, Melissa, and everything in between. No matter how you say it, I’ll probably respond.

My love of storytelling started early, thanks to my mom’s subscription to True Story magazine. I’m not sure she ever actually read an issue, but I devoured them and discovered what would become a lifelong obsession with a good narrative.

I graduated from Southwest Missouri State University (now MSU) in my hometown of Springfield, Missouri. I was lucky enough to step straight into a newsroom—first as an intern, then as a producer. I adored the work. In fact, I can honestly say I never dreaded a single day on the job… unless you count election nights, which could give anyone a case of shingles.

Today, I still live in Springfield with my husband, Bill, our two dogs, Roo and Cookie, and our cat, Rusty. Bill and I are both retired, which means we enjoy a strict policy of No Bad Days—ever.

When I’m not writing mystery novels, you’ll likely find me on the pickleball court (my latest obsession) or buried in my craft room, where I may or may not own enough soap-making supplies to open a small boutique.