Mystery Publisher to Keep an Eye On: Encircle Publications

At  the New England Crime Bake this weekend, the two (married to each other) people who "are" Encircle Publications, Eddie Vincent and Cynthia Brackett-Vincent, shared perceptive insight on today's mystery publishing business. Just as much in flux as any other market segment, it's also providing healthy new forms, and Encircle captures one of the most intriguing: a small to mid-sized publishing house where authors are significant, strong writing matters, and this much-loved genre thrives.

In a season when several small-ish mystery publishers have either folded or been gobbled up by the big franchises, here's a chance to pay attention -- and pay some support -- to a rising star.

Currently the mystery author list at Encircle includes:

• Gary Alexander
• Mike Befeler
• Richard Bolt
• Bill Brooks
• Richard J. Cass
• Dane Cobain
• Catherine Dilts
• Flo Fitzpatrick
• Phyllis Gobbell
• Al Lamanda
• BJ Magnani
• Tom Murphy
• Erica Obey
• Ang Pompano
• Jay Ruud
• Lois Schmitt
• Jacqueline Seewald
• Karen Hanson Stuyck
• Lara Tupper
• Susan Van Kirk
• C.M. Wedelboe
• Leslie Wheeler

I'm also fascinated by the deep books and writing backgrounds of both the owners. Check out their website, and even if you don't buy a book from them today, bookmark it, and share it on social media. It's easy to support a growing mystery publisher ... and well worth it. I can hardly wait to see which authors and books they add over the coming months. Based in Maine, and thriving!

PS:  Looking for mystery reviews, from cozy to very dark? Browse the Kingdom Books mysteries review blog here.