Viola Russell

I am a teacher by day but a writer by night. As a native New Orleanian, I know the city and love its unique culture and people. New Orleans is a character in many of my novels; the city's vibrant culture and citizens make my work come to life. "A Fair Grounds Mystery" and "The Doctor and the War Widow" contain vibrant New Orleans characters. An academic, I also love history and literature. My novels also celebrate my Irish and German heritage as well as my fascination with the historical events of the twentieth century. "Love at War" and "Jude Mooney" bring the era of Prohibition, WWI, and WWII to life. In "Buccaneer Beauty," I ventured into Ireland of the 1500s, celebrating the life of the famous Irish pirate, Grainne O'Malley. In "The Unveiling of Amber" I delved into the world of eroticism and sexual intrigue. "The Blood-Dimmed Tide" took me into the 1960s as I explored the impact that time had on an Irish family living in New Orleans and later when they returned to Ireland. Their lives intertwine with a Creole family living in New Orleans--a family whose son faces the horror of Vietnam and then finds redemption. In "Love and Betrayal in a Time of Plague," I depicted the lives of doctors in nurses as they find love amid the horror of COVID and the challenges that time posed for so many medical professionals. I also have contributed to a number of anthologies of which I am very proud.

My life is full and busy. I am a full-time teacher as well as a full-time writer who lives in New Orleans with my husband, the love of my life. I am a constant learner, studying German and exploring new ways to reach students and foster their love of words and writing. As I grow as an author and teacher, I hope to inspire others to achieve as well.