Bellevue University Instructor Launches New Gothic Mystery Set Around a Museum and a Murder
Bellevue University instructor Erica Wright has released her latest book, The Museum of Unusual Occurrence, published by Severn House. The novel introduces a new mystery series and continues Wright’s established career as a novelist, poet, and educator.
Key Facts
- Author: Erica Wright
- Book Title: The Museum of Unusual Occurrence
- Publisher: Severn House
- Genre: Gothic mystery
- Series: First installment of the Psychic City mystery series
- Availability: Independent bookstores, major retailers, and libraries
Launch of a New Mystery Series
Bellevue University instructor Erica Wright has published The Museum of Unusual Occurrence, marking the start of a new mystery series set in the fictional town of Wyndale, Florida. The novel follows Aly Orlean, who returns to her hometown after inheriting a museum filled with unusual exhibits. As Aly works to manage the museum, care for her teenage sister, and maintain her business, she discovers a body placed inside one of the exhibits, drawing her into a murder investigation.
Inspiration Behind the Setting and Story
Wright shaped the story’s setting after researching a real Florida town known for its association with psychic practices. While the location and characters are fictional, the novel draws on her interest in museums, place, and structure. The story also centers on people responding to change and working through transitions in their lives, a theme that appears throughout her writing in multiple genres.
“I’m interested in stories about people navigating change and figuring out what comes next, even when things don’t go as planned,” Wright said. "This book gave me the chance to combine my interest in museums and mysteries into a story about life choices."
Writing and Teaching at Bellevue University
In addition to her work as an author, Wright teaches writing and literature courses at Bellevue University, including Composition sequence and Voices Connecting the Global Community. Her experience as a working writer informs her classroom approach, where she emphasizes reading, revision, and critical thinking. Wright’s publication record includes novels, poetry collections, and essays, and The Museum of Unusual Occurrence adds to her ongoing body of published work.
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with more than 70,000 graduates worldwide. The University is a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, while making college affordable. Routinely ranked among the nation’s top military and accessible institutions, the University serves residential students at its main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, and everywhere online with more than 85 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).