Step into the enchanting world of the Back Room Bookstore Cozy Mystery series, where a quaint bookstore hides a magical secret! Penned by Susan Harper, this delightful blend of cozy mystery and paranormal fantasy follows Monica Montoya, a witch navigating life in the mortal town of Bankstown while solving murders that span two realms. With a portal to the supernatural world tucked behind her bookstore’s back door, Monica’s adventures are brimming with charm, intrigue, and a sprinkle of magic.
Across twelve novels, Harper crafts a universe where witches, wizards, and mystical creatures mingle with small-town life, captivating readers who crave lighthearted whodunits with a fantastical twist. Whether you’re a cozy mystery aficionado or a fantasy enthusiast, this series promises a spellbinding escape.
How Back Room Bookstore Cozy Mystery Began
Susan Harper, a prolific cozy mystery author, launched the Back Room Bookstore Cozy Mystery series in 2018 with Books and Brews. Inspired by her love for blending everyday settings with extraordinary elements, Harper created a world where twin sisters Monica and Mona inherit their aunt’s bookstore, each managing a shop in separate realms—mortal and magical. Harper’s knack for crafting relatable characters and imaginative plots shines through, making the series a standout in her extensive catalog, which includes hits like the Caribbean Cruise Cozy series.
The idea of a bookstore as a gateway to a supernatural realm resonated with readers, tapping into the universal allure of hidden worlds. Harper’s Texas roots and storytelling flair infuse the series with warmth and whimsy, setting the stage for Monica’s sleuthing escapades.
The Heart of Back Room Bookstore Cozy Mystery
The series kicks off with Books and Brews (2018), where Monica, an ‘unnatural’ witch with limited magical prowess, settles into Bankstown only to stumble upon a murder at a local festival. Teaming up with Officer Brian, she uses her wits and a dash of magic to catch the killer. The Guilty Party (2018) follows the sisters to a party at Uncle Dracula’s mansion, where a guest’s death with suspicious bite marks puts their uncle in the slammer. A Staged Murder (2018) sees Monica investigating a killing during a play tied to her familiar’s past, while Holidays and Homicide (2019) weaves festive cheer with deadly secrets.
Harper’s stories thrive on themes of duality—mortal versus magical, ordinary versus extraordinary. The portal between Bankstown and the mystical Wysteria symbolizes Monica’s struggle to balance her witchy heritage with her new life. Characters like Abigail, a grumpy cat who’s actually a punished witch, and Holly, a mysterious human employee, add humor and depth. The series’ cozy style—think quirky characters, small-town vibes, and clever twists—makes it perfect for readers seeking light, engaging mysteries.
The setting, a bookstore bridging two worlds, is a character in itself. Harper’s vivid descriptions of Wysteria’s fantastical inhabitants, from centaurs to Santa, contrast with Bankstown’s quaint charm, creating a rich backdrop for Monica’s sleuthing. Each book delivers a self-contained mystery while advancing an overarching narrative about Monica’s growth and Holly’s hidden mystic origins.
Why Back Room Bookstore Cozy Mystery Resonates
The Back Room Bookstore Cozy Mystery series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, enchanting fans with its unique blend of paranormal flair and heartwarming storytelling. Readers praise Harper’s imaginative world-building and binge-worthy plots, with many devouring the entire series in days. Its appeal lies in its accessibility—simple yet engaging prose makes it ideal for young adults and cozy fans alike, while the magical elements attract fantasy lovers.
Harper’s ability to weave suspense, humor, and a touch of romance (hello, Monica and Brian’s budding chemistry!) ensures the series’ lasting charm. By celebrating the magic in everyday life, it invites readers to find wonder in their own world, cementing its place as a beloved gem in the genre.
- Publication Years: 2018–2019
- Number of Books: 12
- Genres: Cozy Mystery, Paranormal Fantasy
- Setting: Bankstown (mortal) and Wysteria (magical)
Grab Books and Brews and dive into the Back Room Bookstore Cozy Mystery’s spellbinding world of witches, mysteries, and magical portals!