Dive into the cozy yet thrilling world of Books To Die For, where a burned-out software engineer and his Golden Retriever sidekick unravel mysteries with heart and humor! Richard Houston’s beloved series blends amateur sleuthing, canine charm, and quirky small-town vibes, making it a must-read for mystery lovers who adore a loyal dog and a good puzzle.
Centered on Jake Martin and his extraordinary Golden Retriever, Fred, this series delivers fast-paced plots with a light, comedic touch. From hidden treasures to cold-case murders, each book invites readers into a world where ordinary people—and their pets—solve extraordinary crimes.
How Books To Die For Began
Richard Houston, a former NASA software engineer turned USA Today bestselling author, crafted Books To Die For from his lakefront home in Missouri. Inspired by his love for Golden Retrievers and the rich history of the Ozarks, Houston created Jake Martin as an everyman hero—a relatable, down-on-his-luck guy with a knack for stumbling into mysteries. His debut novel, A View to Die For, was sparked by a fascination with Jesse James’ hidden gold, evolving into a series that’s as much about character as it is about crime.
After a 30-year tech career and early retirement, Houston turned to writing, self-publishing his first novel in 2012. His background as a carpenter and roofer lent authenticity to Jake’s handyman struggles, while his Missouri roots infused the series with vivid local color, from Colorado’s Rockies to the Ozarks’ backwaters.
The Heart of Books To Die For
The series kicks off with A View to Die For, where Jake and Fred travel to the Missouri Ozarks to clear Jake’s sister of murder charges, uncovering a web of killers and hidden gold. A Book to Die For sees Jake accused of manslaughter in Denver, entangled in a poaching ring while falling for a game warden. A Treasure to Die For ramps up the stakes with a coded message in a rare Tom Sawyer edition, leading to murders in Colorado’s mines. Letters to Die For finds Jake remodeling a house, only to discover love letters that trigger a deadly chase.
Themes of friendship, resilience, and second chances weave through the series, with Fred’s loyalty stealing the show. Houston’s conversational style and multilayered plots keep readers guessing, while settings like Evergreen, Colorado, and Truman, Missouri, ground the stories in vivid detail. The series’ cozy mystery vibe—no graphic violence, just clever sleuthing—pairs perfectly with its comedic undertones and focus on Jake’s quirky neighbor, Bonnie, and Fred’s crime-solving antics.
Fred, often compared to Lassie for his smarts, isn’t just a pet but a clue-finder and icebreaker, making the series a standout for dog lovers. Houston’s ability to balance suspense with lighthearted moments creates a unique niche in the mystery genre, appealing to readers who crave both thrills and warmth.
Why Books To Die For Resonates
Books To Die For has carved a loyal following among cozy mystery fans, particularly those who adore animal-themed stories. Its blend of relatable characters, intricate plots, and Fred’s charm has earned praise from readers and critics, with titles hitting Amazon’s top ranks in the cozy animal mystery category. Houston’s underdog journey from tech to bestselling author mirrors Jake’s own grit, resonating with readers who root for second acts.
The series’ lasting appeal lies in its heart: the bond between Jake and Fred, the humor of small-town life, and the thrill of solving crimes against the odds. It’s a reminder that heroes don’t need badges—just a good dog and a sharp mind.
- First Book: A View to Die For (2012)
- Total Books: 8 (as of 2023)
- Genre: Cozy Mystery
- Key Setting: Colorado and Missouri
Grab A View to Die For and join Jake and Fred in a cozy mystery adventure that’s equal parts heart, humor, and suspense!