The official website of
Australian fiction author JL Reidy

JL Reidy presents her debut mystery novel
A Death in Blackwood

Set in the mountains of the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, A Death In Blackwood is more than a murder mystery. It’s an in-depth look into intergenerational rural Australian life and relationships. A contemporary mystery exploring the lives and unique characters of a farming community.Returning to her childhood town of Blackwood for a family celebration brings a lot more complications than Jessica Collins had bargained for.An unexpected death in the small country town triggers suspicions for the police and relatives of the victim. Yet how does a mid-30s, soon to be single, mother of two teenagers, and aspiring journalist, go about solving the mystery death? Jess has to rely on her instincts, intelligence … and the internet. She is determined to clear her brother’s name while discovering who really killed their uncle.

JL Reidy A Death in Blackwood bookcover. Mysterious black cover with a bright crack of light showing through a doorway

About JL Reidy

JL Reidy is a contemporary Australian fiction writer, living and working in the Mid North Coast region of New South Wales. Her day to day experiences of rural Australian living fuel her writing, as does her sense of humour.Novels are literally pouring out of her head, so stay tuned for more murder mysteries populated with unique characters, set in the Aussie bush.She loves her family, animals, reading, and gardening. And it is in that order, no matter what her family may suggest!Having spent her early life on a dairy farm, then experienced small town living, some city living, and is now back in her beloved bush again, she can honestly say she prefers the country life.With a diverse background in archaeology, ancient history, law, the entertainment industry, farming, art, and organic gardening, she utilises her life experiences and observations to create distinctive works of fiction.FYI she doesn't usually work with a cat on her head ... but she also doesn't like boring headshot pics either!JL Reidy also has a messy gardening and life blog under the dubious handle of @bugsgrubsandslugs on Instagram, Threads and BlueSky. Join her there, or on Facebook page JL Reidy - Author

Latest Author News

The paperback edition of A Death in Blackwood will be available to purchase from mid-December 2025!
Stay tuned for more info!

Short Stories

Do you like short stories instead of a full novel?
My short story A Tragic Accident? is availble online now:
In rural Australia, a tragic farm accident occurs. Is it really an accident?
A short story giving a peek in the lives of uniquely Australian characters in a small town community.
Where truth and fiction can be very hard to separate.
Available to purchase here!

Connect with JL Reidy

JL Reidy also has a messy gardening and life blog under the dubious handle of @bugsgrubsandslugs on Instagram, Threads and BlueSky. Join her there, or on Facebook page JL Reidy - Author
Don't forget to check out my Author's page on Amazon!