Author/artist Jess Elliott got her B. A. in English Literature from the University of the South. She taught English in Kyoto, Japan from 1990—1993 working six days a week and sightseeing on her one day off. Always a spiritual seeker, this experience got her interested in Buddhism and Taoism. In Gainesville, she studied meditation under the guidance of a Buddhist monk and lay teachers in the New Kadampa tradition for approximately twelve years.

Elliott is currently working on the fourth book in a cozy mystery series lightly dusted with Buddhist concepts relating to how to tame the “monkey” mind. Her main character, Haint Blue has opened a meditation retreat. She thinks it will be a tranquil place where she can provide space for meditation, yoga, gourmet food, and mindful conversation. She soon finds that the weather, her guests, the wildlife, and the annoying stuff of life don’t share her harmonious vision. In fact, finding inner peace can be murder.

Jess was featured on the Heart Mind Healing Podcast Episode 8 - Monkey Mind: Exploring Buddhist Fiction with J. Elliott - Watch on Youtube / Listen on Spotify