Step into the sun-soaked, suspense-filled world of the Folly Beach Mystery series, where quirky characters, coastal charm, and clever crimes collide! Written by Bill Noel, this beloved cozy mystery series follows Chris Landrum, a retired school administrator turned amateur sleuth, as he unravels murders and mayhem on the eclectic Folly Beach, South Carolina. With over twenty books, it’s a perfect escape for readers craving lighthearted whodunits with a Lowcountry twist.
Whether you’re strolling past the Lost Dog Café or dodging suspects at the Tides Hotel, Noel’s vivid storytelling makes Folly Beach feel like home. Ready to dive into this addictive series? Let’s explore its origins, themes, and why it’s a must-read for mystery lovers!
How Folly Beach Mystery Began
Bill Noel, a fine art photographer from Louisville, Kentucky, discovered Folly Beach about a decade before publishing his debut novel, Folly, in 2007. At age 59, inspired by the island’s laid-back vibe and colorful residents, he crafted a series that captures its bohemian spirit. Noel’s self-publishing journey with iUniverse allowed him creative control, resulting in fast-paced, reader-friendly mysteries that resonate with fans. His love for Folly’s real-life haunts, like Rita’s Seaside Grille, grounds the series in authentic coastal charm.
The Heart of Folly Beach Mystery
The series kicks off with Folly, where Chris Landrum, a 50-something retiree, stumbles upon a murder during his quest for a peaceful retirement. In The Pier, the second installment, Chris and his quirky sidekick, Charles, investigate whether an antique dealer’s death was suicide or murder. Missing, the seventh book, ups the stakes as they tackle a kidnapping and a serial killer, with Charles’ spunky Aunt Melinda stealing scenes. Boneyard Beach, the tenth, weaves two murders into a twist-filled plot, earning praise as a series highlight.
Noel’s stories blend humor, suspense, and small-town dynamics, with themes of friendship, community, and perseverance shining through. The setting—Folly Beach’s sandy shores, quirky bars, and historic Charleston backdrop—acts as a vibrant character, immersing readers in Lowcountry life. Fans love the relatable, flawed protagonists, especially Chris and Charles, whose Laurel-and-Hardy-esque banter adds levity to dark crimes. Each book stands alone, but reading in order deepens the charm of recurring characters and inside jokes.
Why Folly Beach Mystery Resonates
The Folly Beach Mystery series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, earning accolades like the Imadjinn Award for Best Mystery Novel for seven of the last eight years. Readers rave about its “perfect beach read” vibe, with Amazon reviews averaging 4.5 stars and comments like “I want to take these characters home for supper!” Its appeal lies in its balance of lighthearted fun and gripping plots, making it a go-to for vacationers and armchair detectives alike. Noel’s knack for blending real Folly Beach locales with fictional drama keeps fans hooked, eagerly awaiting each new release, like Crossfire, set for February 2025.
- First Book Published: Folly (2007)
- Total Books: 27 (as of 2025)
- Awards: Multiple Imadjinn Awards for Best Mystery Novel
- Setting: Folly Beach, South Carolina
Grab Folly and dive into the Folly Beach Mystery series’ world of cozy crimes and coastal adventures! Whether you’re a mystery buff or just craving a beachy escape, Chris Landrum’s sleuthing will keep you turning pages under the palmetto trees.