Step into the delectable world of the Chocoholic Mysteries, where chocolate, small-town charm, and a sprinkle of murder create a recipe for cozy mystery bliss! Written under the pseudonym JoAnna Carl by Eve K. Sandstrom, this beloved series follows Lee McKinney, a former Texas trophy wife turned amateur sleuth, as she manages her aunt’s luxury chocolate shop in the picturesque lakeside town of Warner Pier, Michigan. With each book, readers are treated to a new puzzling case, laced with humor, romance, and irresistible chocolate trivia.
Perfect for fans of culinary mysteries and lighthearted whodunits, the Chocoholic Mysteries series serves up a sweet escape. Whether you’re craving a cozy read by the fire or a tale that pairs perfectly with a box of truffles, Lee’s adventures are sure to satisfy.
How Chocoholic Mysteries Began
Eve K. Sandstrom, a seasoned journalist and mystery writer, launched the Chocoholic Mysteries in 2002 under the pen name JoAnna Carl, a nod to her children’s middle names. Inspired by her summers on Lake Michigan’s shores, she crafted Warner Pier as a vibrant resort town blending elements of real Michigan locales like Saugatuck and Holland. Her editor’s request for a cozy mystery series led to the creation of TenHuis Chocolade, a high-end chocolate shop that anchors the series’ indulgent premise. Sandstrom’s love for Oklahoma and Michigan infuses the stories with authentic regional flavor, making the setting as rich as the chocolates themselves.
The Heart of Chocoholic Mysteries
The series kicks off with The Chocolate Cat Caper (2002), where Lee McKinney stumbles into a murder investigation after a defense attorney’s party goes awry, with custom chocolates as a key clue. In The Chocolate Bear Burglary (2002), a teddy bear promotion turns deadly when a friend is murdered, and Lee’s stepson is wrongly accused. The Chocolate Frog Frame-Up (2003) sees Lee chasing clues tied to chocolate frogs, while The Chocolate Raccoon Rigmarole (2021) involves a bizarre jewelry store break-in where thieves steal only snacks.
At its core, the series blends cozy mystery staples—small-town gossip, quirky characters, and clever sleuthing—with chocolate-themed twists. Themes of reinvention shine through Lee’s journey from divorcee to confident businesswoman, while romance simmers with her love interest, Joe Woodyard. Warner Pier’s resort-town vibe, with its seasonal tourists and tight-knit locals, adds layers of intrigue. Sandstrom’s witty prose and knack for suspense keep readers guessing, and each book’s chocolate trivia sprinkles extra sweetness.
Why Chocoholic Mysteries Resonates
The Chocoholic Mysteries have carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, delighting readers with their blend of culinary charm and lighthearted suspense. Fans praise the series for its relatable protagonist and immersive setting, which feel like a warm hug from a lakeside town. With over 18 books, the series has built a loyal following, appealing to those who love Hannah Swensen or Cupcake Bakery Mysteries. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to balance murder and merriment, making it a go-to for readers seeking comfort with a side of clever plotting.
- First Book Published: 2002 (The Chocolate Cat Caper)
- Total Books: 18, plus a short story, ‘The Chocolate Kidnapping Clue’
- Setting: Warner Pier, Michigan
- Author Pseudonym: JoAnna Carl (Eve K. Sandstrom)
Grab The Chocolate Cat Caper and dive into the Chocoholic Mysteries’ delicious world of chocolate and secrets today!