Authors We’re Thankful For: Celebrating Cozy Mystery Writers
As the season of gratitude wraps us in its cozy embrace, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the storytellers who bring a dash of mystery and a whole lot of warmth into our lives. Cozy mystery authors have a knack for crafting worlds where small-town charm meets suspense, and every twist of the plot feels like catching up with an old friend.
This November, we’re giving thanks to the brilliant writers who fill our bookshelves with quirky sleuths, clever crimes, and heartwarming tales that keep us turning the pages late into the night. Let’s celebrate the authors who make our cozy mystery community so wonderfully vibrant!
Here are just a few of our favorites.
Amanda Flower
When it comes to cozy mysteries, Amanda Flower is truly a gem in the genre. Her ability to create charming, small-town settings brimming with quirky characters and delightful humor has made her a beloved author among fans (as well as one of our favorites, with her Farm to Trouble mystery topping our list of Favorite Reads of 2022.)
From the whimsical adventures in the Amish Candy Shop Mysteries to the magical charm of the Magical Bookshop Mysteries, Amanda’s stories are as heartwarming as they are clever. But her talent doesn’t stop there—Amanda has also brought history to life in series like The Emily Dickinson Mysteries, where the famous poet becomes an amateur sleuth (check out our Book Club questions about Because I Could Not Stop for Death), and her upcoming series about Katharine Wright, the sister of the Wright Brothers. With her signature blend of intrigue, historical richness, and heart, Amanda Flower continues to captivate readers. This season, we’re especially grateful for her ability to transport us to both enchanting small towns and fascinating moments in history.
Ellie Alexander
Ellie Alexander has become a favorite in the cozy mystery genre, known for her knack for blending delicious food with delightful mysteries. Her Bakeshop Mysteries series, set in the charming town of Ashland, Oregon introduces readers to Juliet Capshaw, a talented baker who somehow always finds herself in the middle of a mystery. What makes Ellie’s books so special is her ability to mix lighthearted humor, endearing characters, and just the right amount of intrigue to create stories that are as comforting as a fresh batch of cookies. We also love the Secret Bookcase Mystery series and its real life inspiration, the Ashland Mystery Fest that Ellie Alexander has also created where cozy mystery lovers can gather and sleuth.
This November, we’re filled with gratitude for Ellie Alexander’s irresistible stories that have brought so much warmth, sweetness, and fun to cozy mystery fans everywhere.
Agatha Christie
Agatha Christie’s contributions to the mystery genre are nothing short of legendary, and this November, we’re especially grateful for the way she revolutionized the world of whodunits. (Check out our discussion of whether Agatha Christie was a cozy mystery writer.)
With iconic detectives like Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple, Christie created intricate, suspenseful puzzles that still captivate readers today. Her gift for building tension and misdirection, paired with her sharp understanding of human nature, has made her books timeless classics. Whether it's the quiet village mysteries or the grand, more elaborate settings, Agatha Christie’s influence on all mysteries is unrivaled. This season, we celebrate her unparalleled talent for crafting the perfect mystery, one that keeps readers eagerly turning pages from start to finish.
Mia P. Manasala
This November, we’re filled with gratitude for Mia P. Manasala and her Tita Rosie's Kitchen Mysteries series, which brings a fresh, vibrant twist to the cozy mystery genre. Set in a family-run Filipino restaurant, the series follows Lila Macapagal as she navigates both culinary challenges and murder investigations. Mia’s rich storytelling, steeped in culture, food, and family dynamics, provides a delightful escape while also celebrating the warmth of community and heritage.
With her unique blend of humor, heart, and suspense, Mia P. Manasala has quickly become a favorite among cozy mystery fans and reinvigorated the genre. We’re thankful for her ability to craft mysteries that are as flavorful and heartwarming as the dishes her characters prepare.
Joanne Fluke
The Queen of the Culinary Mystery, Joanne Fluke, has brought so much warmth and joy to the cozy mystery genre, and we're especially grateful for her delightful stories and unforgettable characters who feel like old friends.
With her mouthwatering descriptions of cookies, cakes, and other delectable treats, Fluke has not only captured our imaginations but also our taste buds. Her Hannah Swensen series—featuring a clever and charming amateur sleuth and baker—has captured the hearts of readers around the world. The series, set in the charming town of Lake Eden, Minnesota, combines classic cozy mystery elements with delightful recipes that readers can try at home.
Fluke’s ability to balance humor, heart, and intricate mysteries makes each book a perfect escape from the ordinary. We’re thankful for her warm, inviting characters and the cozy, comforting world she creates, which keeps readers coming back book after book.