Fireside Whispers

Cozy fictions from a mountain recluse

Welcome to Fireside Whispers

Come in, find a seat by the fire. The kettle’s always on, and a story awaits.

I love Cozies of all types, and I dabble with writing several genres, though most of my stories are mystery or fantasy.

I’m Caryn Cordova. A retired teacher, high mountain dweller, and fiction writer with a fondness for goats, dogs, and other critters. I also adore stories rooted deep in place, found family, and faith. I created Fireside Whispers as a space for sharing those tales.

Whether they warm the heart or trouble it, they share the same fire.

On December 8th, I will be launching Songborne of Kaldora, a cozy-epic fantasy about a half-elven bard and her struggle to embrace her family legacy. In a month or so, I will add Honky Tonk Happenstance, a cozy mystery about a country singer named Dakota Rain Teague, her grandfather’s suspicious death, and a family goose named Gertie who might be the real detective.

Why write novels?

Some stories won’t leave you alone.

They wait quietly in the corners, brushing your thoughts while you feed the animals or stack firewood in the shed. They nudge you while you drive. They invade your dreams when you try to rest.

They demand to be written.

Why cozies?

I am an old soul, raised by teetotalling parents with old-fashioned sensibilities. Cozies offer a lighter flavor that can still provide an emotional punch.

Some of my stories challenge the traditional cozy label, veering into more epic or lyrical content. If appropriate, I will post alerts about any elements that may be outside my norm.

What is my vision for Fireside Whispers?

Fireside Whispers is a gathering place for readers who love small towns, mysteries, faithful (and possibly talking) animals or dragons, and flawed people finding their way home. If you’re the kind of reader who sighs over a sunset scene or mutters, “How did that goose know?” then welcome.

You belong here.

What should you expect?

Fireside Whispers will include thoughts on the writing craft, story and plot dilemmas, and insights that helped me solve them.

There will also be complete song lyrics (the story may only reveal snippets), possibly artwork, including real-life images of my goats and dogs.

New chapters will be released twice weekly for now. So, on Mondays and Thursdays, expect a chapter or newsletter post. Once Songborne feels comfortably launched, I will add my second story.

I would love to hear your comments and questions about the stories!

Right now, all posts are free.

Come rest by the fire. Everyone’s welcome.

You’ve got lots of places you could be. I’m honored you chose this one.

Thanks for being here.

– Caryn