Books On Board
series Reading Order

Hannah Swensen Books in Order

34 Books
2000 – 2014 Published
Jump to reading order
Affiliate links: We may earn a commission on purchases made at no extra cost to you.
Reading order

The Delicious Appeal of Lake Eden

Step into the deliciously thrilling world of Hannah Swensen, where murder mysteries are served with a side of chocolate chip cookies! Joanne Fluke’s cozy mystery series follows Hannah Swensen, a witty, red-haired baker in the quaint town of Lake Eden, Minnesota. As the owner of The Cookie Jar bakery, Hannah whips up delectable treats while solving crimes that keep her small town buzzing. Perfect for fans of culinary cozies, this series blends heartwarming recipes, charming characters, and just the right dash of suspense.

With over 30 books, the Hannah Swensen series has captured readers’ hearts since its debut in 2000. Whether you’re a foodie craving Hannah’s signature desserts or a sleuth eager to crack the case, this series offers a delightful escape into a world where every mystery comes with a recipe to savor.

Where to Start Your Sleuthing Journey

For the best experience, readers should start at the very beginning with Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder (2000). While each mystery wraps up neatly by the final page, the underlying character relationships, personal growth, and the infamous romantic triangle develop progressively across the books. Starting at the beginning ensures you do not miss any key developments in Hannah's life, her interactions with the residents of Lake Eden, or the evolution of her business, The Cookie Jar.

The Recommended Reading Order

The safest and most satisfying way to experience the series is in publication order. This matches the chronological flow of Hannah's life, with one notable exception. Here is the complete list of Hannah Swensen books and novellas:

  1. Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder (2000)
  2. Strawberry Shortcake Murder (2001)
  3. Blueberry Muffin Murder (2001)
  4. Lemon Meringue Pie Murder (2003)
  5. Fudge Cupcake Murder (2004)
  6. Sugar Cookie Murder (2004)
  7. Peach Cobbler Murder (2005)
  8. Cherry Cheesecake Murder (2006)
  9. Key Lime Pie Murder (2007)
  10. Candy Cane Murder (2007) — Novella
  11. Candy for Christmas (2008) — Novella
  12. Carrot Cake Murder (2008)
  13. Cream Puff Murder (2008)
  14. Plum Pudding Murder (2009)
  15. Apple Turnover Murder (2010)
  16. Gingerbread Cookie Murder (2010) — Novella
  17. Devil's Food Cake Murder (2011)
  18. Cinnamon Roll Murder (2012)
  19. Red Velvet Cupcake Murder (2013)
  20. Blackberry Pie Murder (2014)
  21. Double Fudge Brownie Murder (2015)
  22. Wedding Cake Murder (2016)
  23. Christmas Caramel Murder (2016)
  24. Banana Cream Pie Murder (2017)
  25. Raspberry Danish Murder (2019)
  26. Christmas Cake Murder (2019) — Prequel
  27. Chocolate Cream Pie Murder (2019)
  28. Coconut Layer Cake Murder (2020)
  29. Christmas Cupcake Murder (2020)
  30. Triple Chocolate Cheesecake Murder (2021)
  31. Christmas Dessert Murder (2021)
  32. Caramel Pecan Roll Murder (2022)
  33. Pink Lemonade Cake Murder (2023)
  34. Pumpkin Chiffon Pie Murder (2025)

Chronological Order vs. Publication Order

While publication order is the standard path, there is a major chronological detour: Christmas Cake Murder (2019). Although published late in the series, this book functions as an origin story prequel. It is set during the first Christmas after the passing of Hannah's father. At this point, Hannah has left her graduate program, returned home to support her mother, and hasn't yet opened The Cookie Jar. Despite its early setting, fans recommend reading it later in publication order. Knowing the characters makes this nostalgic trip back in time much more meaningful.

The Holiday Mysteries: A Seasonal Subseries

Joanne Fluke has written numerous Christmas-themed books and novellas. If you are looking for a festive, cozy reading block, these holiday titles can be grouped together. Many of the novellas, such as Candy Cane Murder and Gingerbread Cookie Murder, were originally published in holiday anthologies alongside other cozy mystery authors like Laura Levine and Leslie Meier. They offer shorter, punchier mysteries that capture the winter charm of Lake Eden.

Baking and Books: The Recipe Connection

What makes the Hannah Swensen series truly unique is the inclusion of real, fully detailed recipes throughout the pages of each book. Joanne Fluke, drawing from her own Minnesota roots and family baking heritage, includes everything from signature cookies to festive pies. For a complete companion experience, readers can also check out Joanne Fluke's Lake Eden Cookbook, which compiles many of the series' best recipes along with a bonus short story.

What to Know Before You Start

Before diving into Lake Eden, new readers should prepare for a few staple elements of the series. First is the long-running love triangle between Hannah, detective Mike Kingston, and dentist Norman Rhodes. This romantic subplot spans dozens of books, keeping readers divided on who Hannah should ultimately choose. Second is the local color: Hannah is supported by a quirky cast including her mother Delores, her sisters Andrea and Michelle, and her beloved cat Moishe. The cozy atmosphere means that graphic violence is kept off-stage, making it a perfect, comforting read for lighthearted mystery fans.

Frequently Asked

QWhat is the best book to start with in the Hannah Swensen series?

You should start with the first novel, Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder (2000), to properly follow the development of the characters and their relationships.

QCan the Hannah Swensen books be read as standalones?

Yes, the individual mystery plots are resolved in each book. However, the overarching character relationships and romantic subplots are continuous, so reading them in order is highly recommended.

QWhere does Christmas Cake Murder fit in the timeline?

Christmas Cake Murder is a prequel set years before the first book. However, it is best read in publication order (after book 25, Raspberry Danish Murder) once you are already familiar with the characters.

QAre the recipes in the books real?

Yes! Every book features multiple fully detailed, tested recipes for cookies, cakes, and other desserts that Hannah bakes during the story.

QWho does Hannah Swensen end up with?

Hannah's love life is a central focus of the series, primarily featuring a long-standing triangle between her, detective Mike Kingston, and dentist Norman Rhodes. The dynamics shift gradually throughout the books.