About

child in costumeJust now, it’s 6:15 am, and I’m praying my preschooler stays asleep just a little bit longer so I can get some more work done. My dogs Meander and Mosey are snoring away under my desk. It’s a beautiful quiet here today in the Southwestern Mountains of Virginia.

I’m a writer and editor. I love to read narratives – stories that tell us more about other people and ourselves. My favorite genres are magical realism, mysteries, and essays, but I read widely and as much as I can.

I used to say I wrote most creative nonfiction – and that’s still where my heart and words most feel at peace – but I’ve also written two YA novels and a few books about the writing life, too. Plus, I’m now writing cozy mysteries under a pen name (which is not at all secret, obviously) ACF Bookens. Most of my books are self-published, but I also co-authored Plantation Jesus, a book about racism in the Christian church with Skot Welch and Rick Wilson that was published by the wonderful Herald Press.

Additionally, I edit manuscripts for other writers and provide coaching for folks who’d like a little accountability and support in their writing journey. I hold an MFA in Creative Writing and an MA in Literature, and I’ve taught at several colleges and universities all around the country including George Mason University, Cecil College, Stevenson University, Santa Clara University, and Solano College.

During my free moments, I cross-stitch, walk, enjoy time out with friends in Charlottesville or Richmond, and garden. I’m trying my hands at raised beds at my old farmhouse here in Albemarle County.

I have a Facebook page where I post lots of pictures of libraries and try to share other writing links, and you can chat with me on Twitter, too, if you’d like. I’m also over on Instagram trying to up my photo game.

That’s me. So if you have more personal questions, think carefully about whether you want to know the answers, and if you still do, write me at andi@andilit.com.

Thanks for reading.

  • ACF Bookens

    As ACF Bookens, Andrea writes cozy mysteries, including The St. Marin’s Cozy Mystery Series and Stitches In Crime, which you can find here.

  • Andrea Cumbo

    As Andrea Cumbo, Andi writes romantic comedies, including The Red Flag Dating Club Series, which you can find here.

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