We are deeply saddened by the news of author Gail Bowen’s passing.
We are proud to have been her publisher for the last seven years, and we know how much the Joanne Kilbourn series meant to so many readers. Reader’s Digest has called her Canada’s best mystery novelist. Among her numerous achievements, she has been recognized with the title of Grand Master by Crime Writers of Canada, the Saskatchewan Order of Merit, and the Distinguished Canadian Award from the University of Regina.
Beyond her many literary accolades, she was a thoughtful, kind, and gracious person who was an absolute pleasure to work with. She will be deeply missed by all at ECW Press.
A note from her editor, Jack David:
When Gail began looking for a new home for her Joanne Kilbourn series, ECW was thrilled to be selected.
It was only seven years ago, but we connected easily and quickly, and it feels like it’s been a lot longer. She knew her characters well and understood Saskatchewan politics and society. Letters from readers felt like they came from friends of Joanne and her family and her extended connections.
I spent some time with Gail at the writers’ festival in Moose Jaw. She was revered and honoured and gracious. All doors were open for her. And later when I was in Regina (my hometown), there was always a family member to talk with, or an event, or a reason to gossip or laugh. She wrote the best of herself into Joanne.
One of the pleasures of being a publisher is helping an author develop a manuscript, a cover, a publicity plan, and then becoming friends and co-conspirators. I treasure my time with Gail, and I miss her.
