Alumni Book Nook: Cheryl Dougan (BComm’88)

University of Saskatchewan (USask) graduate Cheryl Dougan (BComm’88) earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree at USask’s College of Commerce—now called the Edwards School of Business—in 1988, before embarking on a career in the investment industry. After retiring in 2008, Dougan began focusing on writing, publishing her first fiction novella in 2020.

Dougan, who lives and writes in Saskatoon, is now the author of numerous cozy mystery books in her River Cruise Cozies and Ocean Cruise Cozies series. Her latest book is Antics in the Adriatic, which was released on June 27, 2024. It is the sixth book in the Ocean Cruise Cozies series.

While on a cruise from Venice to Athens, Adelle and her friends help Interpol to uncover a smuggling ring.

Yes. My education taught me to always be curious.

Both series share the same relatable characters and cozy mystery style but explore different settings and challenges. The River Cruise Series was my first, featuring Adelle as she transitions from a boring retirement into a part-time tour director, solving charming, low-stakes mysteries like missing jewels, disappearing travellers, and even insurance fraud. It’s a relaxing read with detailed location descriptions and developing friendships. The Ocean Cruise Series has evolved into a blend of Golden Girls meets Charlie’s Angels, featuring more high-stakes adventures and action. Both series strive to provide engaging plots and character interactions, offering readers a light-hearted experience.

Travel has always been a significant part of my life, offering endless inspiration and fresh perspectives. Combining my love for travel with mystery allows me to create escapist stories that transport readers to exotic locales while engaging them in intriguing puzzles. Cozy mysteries, in particular, appeal to me because they offer a sense of comfort and community. This genre features amateur sleuths solving crimes in small, close-knit communities, with a strong emphasis on relationships and lighthearted moments. Cozies focus on solving the mystery without violence, swearing, or explicit content. It’s a genre that lets me blend my passion for exploration with my love of storytelling, offering readers a mix of adventure, suspense, and discovery.

I’ve written a total of 11 books so far. Each short book has been a unique journey, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have such a supportive readership that enjoys following along with each new adventure.

Writing provides an incredible outlet for creativity and imagination. I love crafting plots and developing characters that feel like old friends. There’s a unique joy in weaving together clues and red herrings to create a satisfying mystery. Additionally, hearing from readers who find comfort and enjoyment in my books is immensely rewarding. It’s a privilege to offer a temporary escape through my stories. Alumni will especially enjoy Tilly’s character in my books. She’s a spunky and resourceful woman in her seventies from rural Saskatchewan who often uses her practical prairie wisdom to help the team. Her love for learning about the history and culture of the places they visit adds depth and charm to the stories. Many of the cruise itineraries in my books are inspired by my travels and the alumni trips offered by the University of Saskatchewan. Through these series, readers can virtually explore these fascinating locales, enriched with mysteries and characters that bring each setting to life.

Yes, I self-publish all my books. The self-publishing process is both challenging and rewarding. It involves a lot of learning and multitasking, from writing and editing to the unique cozy cover design and marketing. Staying current with technology is crucial, as it includes using various digital tools and platforms for formatting, distribution, and promotion. However, it also offers complete creative control and the flexibility to bring my vision to life on my terms. The direct connection with readers and the ability to see a project through from start to finish is incredibly satisfying.

My advice is simple: start writing. Don’t get bogged down by perfectionism; the first draft is just about getting your ideas down on paper. Stay persistent, and don’t be afraid to seek feedback. Writing can be a solitary endeavour, but building a community of fellow writers and readers can provide valuable support and motivation. Lastly, believe in your story and your voice. Everyone has a unique perspective to share, and your story could be the escape or inspiration someone needs.