L J M Owen

Dr L.J.M. Owen escapes dark and shadowy days as a public servant by exploring the comparatively lighter side of life: murder, mystery and forgotten women's history. An Australian author, archaeologist and librarian with a PhD in palaeogenetics, L.J.’s focus is on transforming science and history into accessible fiction with a broad appeal.

A passionate advocate for reclaiming women’s history, L.J. incorporates human genetics, forensic science and ancient cultures in her Australian-set mystery series: Dr Pimms, Intermillennial Sleuth.

The first book in the series, Olmec Obituary, introduces readers to a young Dr Elizabeth Pimms, an archaeologist-librarian who solves ancient mysteries from across the globe. Struggling with grief, loss and difficult colleagues, Elizabeth searches for the identity of those buried in a royal Olmec cemetery discovered deep in the Mexican jungle. Olmec Obituary was awarded a Highly Commended in the 2016 ACT Writing and Publishing Awards.

The second book in the series, Mayan Mendacity, explores the ancient world of Maya politics, scribes and female rulers.

The third, Egyptian Enigma, will plunge Elizabeth into a world of missing mummies, forgotten female Pharaohs and modern cannibals. It is due for release in 2018.

In addition to writing, L.J. is a panellist, interviewer, workshop provider and public speaker. Rare moments of free time are spent experimenting with ancient recipes…under strict feline supervision, of course.

The Dr Pimms, Intermillennial Sleuth series. Really cold cases.