L.V. “Lynne” Albuquerque is a former science teacher, lifelong reader, and proud science geek who believes curiosity is the key to solving both mysteries and life’s everyday puzzles.

After years in the classroom, she combined her love of science, storytelling, a good dose of humor and a pinch of romance to write First Day Back, the first book in her Hearts and Homicides series. The series follows Bridget Cruz, a teacher-turned-amateur sleuth who proves that sharp instincts—and a little scientific thinking—can go a long way in uncovering the truth.

Lynne lives in the scenic Catskill Mountains of upstate New York with her very vocal and opinionated calico cat, Pancake, who insists she is the real brains behind the operation (despite doing very little to contribute).

When she’s not writing, Lynne enjoys curling up with a good book, cooking, playing mahjongg and canasta, fishing, listening to live music, and supporting her local community library, where she serves on the Board of Trustees.

To learn more, visit LVAlbuquerque.com or sign up for her newsletter for updates on new releases, life in the Catskills, and Pancake’s latest complaints.