Hello and welcome to Brakenville!

Let me tell you a little secret—Brakenville started as a joke. Way, way back when I was pregnant with my third (or was it fourth?) child, a colleague joked that I was building my own little village.

Well, four grown kids, an armful of books, and 8 grandkids later, it turns out they were onto something! Now, with a bustling family and a growing circle of readers, it really does feel like Brakenville is a cozy little town—and I’m thrilled you’ve joined our community.

At Emerald Prairie Press, I believe in three simple things: Elevating Stories, Spreading Positivity, and Bridging Worlds. Whether you’re here for my cozy mysteries or the adventures of Duke the Deaf Dog, there’s something special waiting for you (and just so you know, my real dog Duke isn’t deaf—he’s a bird-chasing German Wirehair Pointer, and my running partner, but that’s another story).

Oh, and if you’re wondering why @inBrakenville has become my handle on social media—it’s because this little village has grown to include readers, friends, and fellow story lovers like you!

 What’s in Store?

Two Genres, Twice the Fun: I write cozy mysteries and children’s books, so you’ll find a little of both here. Whether you’re unraveling mysteries with Cassandra or learning ASL with Duke, you’re in for a fun ride.

2024 Updates: This year, I’m working on adding more resources for parents and educators, streamlining the book pages, and tidying up older content. It’s a work in progress—just like me!—but check back for more goodies soon.

What You’ll Find Here:

Behind-the-Scenes Peeks: Ever wondered what my writing process looks like? Spoiler: it involves a lot of caffeine. I’ll also be sharing sneak peeks of upcoming books and progress updates.

Monthly Newsletters: Full of book news, recipes, and inspiration. If you haven’t already, hit that Subscribe button at the bottom of the page!

Coming Soon:

• • A Pet Forum (because we all know the internet needs more cute pet pics)

• • Book club discussion guides

• • Spotlights on Deaf contributors and resources

My mission is simple: to create a world where stories provide full access and foster a deep sense of belonging for both Deaf and hearing communities. Through cozy mysteries and educational children’s books, I’m here to amplify Deaf stories, break down barriers, and show that being different is a superpower.

Meet Duke, my real-life sidekick (though, to be honest, he’s more of a slacker employee who naps all day).

Thanks for being part of this wild, wonderful journey! Together, we can elevate stories, spread positivity, and bridge worlds—all from our cozy corner of Brakenville.

Sincerely, 

Kelly

Kelly Brakenhoff is the author of 15 books and a seasoned ASL interpreter. She splits her writing energy between two series: cozy mysteries set on a college campus and children’s books featuring Duke the Deaf Dog.

Parents, kids, and teachers love the children’s books and activity guides because they introduce ASL and the Deaf community through fun, engaging stories. And if you enjoy a smart female sleuth, want to learn more about Deaf culture, or have ever lived in a place where livestock outnumber people, the Cassandra Sato Mystery series will have you connecting the dots faster than a group project coming together the night before it’s due.

A proud mom to four adults, head of the dog-snuggling department, and grandma to a growing brood of perfectly behaved grandkids, Kelly and her husband call Nebraska home.