Born into Murder
by Edale Lane
Released: Jun 16, 2026
Genre: Mystery
Why this book and why now?
After three+ years following our heroines, Jenna and Randi, the time for another milestone has arrived – a new baby. This is book 14 in the series, and these women have built a solid relationship. Going forward, we’ll see how they handle parenthood.
Do your character names have special significance or meaning?
Dr. Miranda McLeod was NOT named for sapphic author Miranda MacLeod. That turned out to be a weird coincidence, since I named the character before discovering Miranda and TB. Ferrari was specifically chosen. I wanted my detective to have Italian heritage, so I scoured names until the famous sports car creator jumped out at me. It fits her perfectly – sleek, powerful, and full throttle.
What’s one fun fact about your book that most people wouldn’t know?
Most of Randi’s childbirth experiences mirror my own – even the embarrassing ones.
Which character do you relate to the most, and why?
I actually based Randi on myself. I only taught elementary and high school, and never got that doctorate degree from Chapel Hill. I practiced karate, but never earned my black belt. But we’re both tall, compassionate church-going teachers with overly positive attitudes who love sci-fi and fantasy. I used to be lanky and fit before having 2 children and hitting my 40s. We’ll see if Randi suffers my fate now that she’s entering that stage in her life. The big difference is that she eats healthier than I did back then. You could say Randi is the woman I might have been if life hadn’t gotten in the way.
If you could spend a day with one character from the book, who would it be and why?
After 14 books and a prequel, I feel like I spend every day with both of my main characters. They hang out in my head. Jenna struggles with doubt and points out everything wrong in police dramas. Randi makes quirky comments about everything that goes on and sometimes suggests a new recipe. They both motivate me to get up and exercise.
Publishing a book is a huge accomplishment and it’s time to party! Choose a celebratory beverage for one of your main characters to toast the release of your new book.
Randi is breastfeeding, so she would have to make her toast with lemon iced tea, since she preaches against sodas. Jenna is free to choose a harder celebratory drink, but is usually happy with an iced cold beer.
What song does your character put on to start your book launch party?
Since this book is all about the baby (well, and solving a few murders), Randi would play “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack. I love that song, too, and sang it for my children when they were teenagers in 2000. Now my daughter is 40 and my son 38. You should see them dance! So proud.
Who are your biggest literary influences?
This series is loosely patterned after JD Robb’s (Nora Roberts) “In Death” series. Her woman cop is complicated, dedicated, and gutsy, but unlike her, Jenna winds up with a “normal” love interest – not a billionaire. Unlike the “In Death” books, my crimes are more believable and down-to-earth, rather than over-the-top spectacular.
What are you currently reading?
I’m currently reading something outside my usual – an MM werewolf novel, Wolfsong, by TJ Klune. I’ve never read (listened to) an MM book before, and my partner loves werewolf stories. Our book club picked it, and I figured I should read some non-sapphic books to discuss at monthly meetings.
