Step into the delectable world of the Chocolate Whisperer Mystery series, where chocolate isn’t just a treat—it’s a clue! Penned by Colette London, this cozy mystery series follows Hayden Mundy Moore, a globe-trotting chocolate expert with a knack for sniffing out danger amidst cacao and confections. Perfect for fans of culinary mysteries, this series blends mouthwatering chocolate details with amateur sleuthing, serving up a recipe for intrigue that’s impossible to resist.
With its unique premise, the Chocolate Whisperer Mystery series invites readers to savor a world where luxury chocolate meets murder. Hayden’s adventures are as rich as a truffle, offering a light, engaging escape for mystery lovers and chocoholics alike. Ready to dive into this luscious blend of suspense and sweetness?
How Chocolate Whisperer Mystery Began
Colette London, a pseudonym for bestselling novelist Lisa Plumley, launched the Chocolate Whisperer Mystery series in 2015 with Criminal Confections. Inspired by the growing popularity of culinary cozy mysteries, London crafted a heroine who’s both relatable and extraordinary. Hayden Mundy Moore, the world’s first “chocolate whisperer,” was born from London’s love for chocolate and her desire to explore a niche profession in the luxury food industry. Published by Kensington Books, the series quickly gained traction for its fresh take on the cozy genre, earning praise for its witty prose and vivid settings.
The Heart of Chocolate Whisperer Mystery
The series spans five books, each whisking Hayden to a new locale where chocolate and crime collide. In Criminal Confections (2015), Hayden attends a chocolate retreat in San Francisco, only to uncover a murder when a colleague dies mysteriously. Dangerously Dark (2015) takes her to Portland, Oregon, where a friend’s engagement party turns deadly after a fiancé’s shocking death. The Semi-Sweet Hereafter (2016) sees Hayden in London, solving a celebrity chef’s murder, while Dead and Ganache (2017) explores France’s Brittany region with a chocolate-making mentor. Finally, The Peppermint Mocha Murder (2018) brings festive suspense to New England.
Themes of adventure, independence, and culinary artistry weave through the series. Hayden’s expertise in chocolate—honed through jungle treks and exotic markets—sets her apart, while her amateur sleuthing adds relatability. The settings, from San Francisco’s spa resorts to London’s chic patisseries, are vividly drawn, immersing readers in a world of high-end chocolate culture. London’s light, humorous style, paired with chocolate facts and recipes, makes each book a delightful blend of education and entertainment.
Hayden’s relationships, particularly with her bodyguard Danny and mysterious financial advisor Travis, add a dash of romance and intrigue. The series balances cozy staples—small-town vibes, quirky characters—with a global flair, appealing to readers who crave both comfort and excitement.
Why Chocolate Whisperer Mystery Resonates
The Chocolate Whisperer Mystery series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, captivating fans of authors like JoAnna Carl and Diane Mott Davidson. Its blend of chocolate expertise and suspense offers a fresh twist, while Hayden’s spunky personality keeps readers invested. Reviews praise the series for its “smooth and delicious” prose, with Criminal Confections earning a starred Library Journal review. Though not a cultural juggernaut, the series’ loyal following appreciates its escapist charm and culinary focus, making it a hidden gem for cozy enthusiasts.
Its lasting appeal lies in its ability to make readers hungry—for both chocolate and answers. By merging a unique profession with classic whodunit elements, London created a series that feels both indulgent and clever, inviting readers to savor every page.
- First Book: Criminal Confections (2015)
- Number of Books: 5
- Author: Colette London (pseudonym for Lisa Plumley)
- Genre: Cozy Mystery
Grab Criminal Confections and dive into the Chocolate Whisperer Mystery’s scrumptious world of chocolate and suspense! Whether you’re a mystery buff or a chocolate lover, Hayden Mundy Moore’s adventures promise a sweet escape.