Step into the snarky, thrilling world of the Avery Shaw Mysteries, where a fearless reporter named Avery Shaw turns every news scoop into a wild adventure! Written by Amanda M. Lee, this cozy mystery series blends murder, mayhem, and sharp-witted humor, set against the vibrant backdrop of present-day Michigan. With Avery’s knack for diving headfirst into danger, readers are in for a rollercoaster of laughs and suspense.
Whether she’s chasing a serial killer or dodging her overbearing mom’s fashion critiques, Avery’s chaotic life as a journalist keeps fans hooked. This series is perfect for those who love a sassy heroine, quirky family drama, and mysteries that keep you guessing until the last page.
How Avery Shaw Mysteries Began
Amanda M. Lee, a former newspaper reporter with a passion for science fiction and cozy mysteries, launched the Avery Shaw Mysteries in 2011 with Who, What, Where, When, Die. Drawing from her own journalism experience in Michigan, Lee crafted Avery as a bold, sarcastic reporter who mirrored the eccentricities of real-life newsrooms. Inspired by her love for quirky characters and fast-paced plots, Lee self-published the series, which quickly gained a loyal following for its unique blend of humor and suspense.
The Heart of Avery Shaw Mysteries
The series kicks off with Who, What, Where, When, Die, where Avery tackles a story about a dancing gunman, only to face death threats and a tangled web of crime. In If It Bleeds, It Leads, she investigates a murder tied to her own family, balancing her career with personal drama. Buried Leads sees Avery digging into a missing person case, clashing with her ex-boyfriend, the county sheriff, and her new love interest, Eliot. Later, Hard Hitting & Misleading throws her into a serial killer chase post-honeymoon, proving her knack for trouble never fades.
Avery Shaw Mysteries thrives on themes of tenacity, loyalty, and self-discovery. Avery’s unapologetic attitude and sarcastic banter make her a standout heroine, while her chaotic relationships—with her crazy family, ex-boyfriend Jake, and husband Eliot—add heart and humor. Set in Michigan’s Macomb County, the series grounds its wild plots in a relatable small-town vibe, with newsrooms and local scandals providing a vivid backdrop. Lee’s conversational style, packed with pop culture references and snarky dialogue, keeps the tone light yet gripping.
Why Avery Shaw Mysteries Resonates
The Avery Shaw Mysteries have carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, captivating readers with their blend of humor, romance, and unpredictable plots. Fans on platforms like Goodreads praise Avery’s relatability—her flaws, like selfishness and stubbornness, make her feel real, while her growth over 25 books keeps the series fresh. The series’ focus on a strong, witty female lead has inspired a dedicated fanbase, with readers rereading for the laughs and staying for the heartwarming moments.
Lee’s prolific output and ability to weave real-life journalism quirks into fiction have made the series a standout for cozy mystery lovers. Its enduring appeal lies in Avery’s fearless pursuit of truth, proving that even in a small town, big stories—and bigger personalities—can leave a lasting mark.
- First Book Published: 2011
- Total Books: 25 as of 2025
- Setting: Macomb County, Michigan
- Genre: Cozy Mystery
Ready to join Avery’s wild ride? Grab Who, What, Where, When, Die and dive into the Avery Shaw Mysteries’ hilarious, heart-pounding world of cozy crime!