Mary Daheim

Mary Rene Daheim (born November 7, 1937) is an American writer of romance and mystery novels.

Daheim was born in Seattle, Washington, United States, to Hugh and Monica Richardson. She attended the University of Washington where she was one of the first female editors of The Daily, the campus newspaper. After receiving her BA in communications, Daheim worked as a journalist in Anacortes and Port Angeles, Washington.

Daheim's first novel, the historical romance Love's Pirate, was published in 1983. Daheim continued writing historical romances for several years until she tired of writing "bodice-rippers". She switched genres to her personal favorite, mysteries.

The "Bed & Breakfast" series featuring amateur detective Judith McMonigle (later Flynn) was published beginning in 1991.

The first book in her "Alpine" series The Alpine Advocate was published in 1992. Emma Lord is the protagonist who tackles mysteries in the small town of Alpine, Washington. The real Alpine no longer exists; however in her series Daheim resurrects the town. Interest in the old town led to it being rediscovered in 2008 by a group calling themselves "The Alpine Advocates".

Daheim was nominated for an Agatha Award for her first mystery novel Just Desserts in 1991. In 2008, she was inducted into the University of Washington Department of Communications Alumni Hall of Fame. Daheim continues to write both series from her Seattle home.