What's Happening?
Mary Ann Eckels, a prominent figure in the mystery publishing world, has died at the age of 87. Eckels began her career in publishing at Ballantine, a Random House imprint, in 1980, where she worked under
Marc Jaffe, a key figure in the mass market paperback industry. Eckels became a mystery editor, acquiring paperback rights to numerous bestsellers and shaping original mystery series. In the mid-1990s, she was appointed editor-in-chief of the Mystery Guild Book Club, where she supported authors like Sue Grafton. Eckels concluded her career at the Blumer Literary Agency before retiring to Florida.
Why It's Important?
Mary Ann Eckels played a significant role in the mystery genre, influencing the publication and distribution of many popular mystery novels. Her work helped shape the careers of numerous authors and contributed to the genre's growth and popularity. Eckels's contributions to the Mystery Guild Book Club and her involvement in national mystery conferences highlight her impact on the literary community. Her passing marks the end of an era for those who appreciated her dedication to mystery literature and her support for emerging authors.
