Step into the chic and suspenseful world of the Hat Shop Mystery series, where stylish hats and clever sleuthing collide on London’s vibrant Portobello Road! Penned by New York Times bestselling author Jenn McKinlay, this cozy mystery series follows cousins Scarlett Parker and Vivian Tremont as they run their grandmother’s hat shop, Mim’s Whims, while unraveling murders with a flair for fashion and friendship. Perfect for fans of light-hearted whodunits, this series blends humor, heart, and a touch of millinery magic.
With its quirky characters and London charm, Hat Shop Mystery invites readers to don their detective caps and dive into a world where every hat hides a clue. Whether you’re a cozy mystery enthusiast or just craving a delightful escape, this series promises a stylish adventure.
How Hat Shop Mystery Began
Jenn McKinlay, a prolific author known for her Cupcake Bakery and Library Lover’s Mysteries, launched the Hat Shop Mystery series in 2013 with Cloche and Dagger. Inspired by her love for crafting and cozy storytelling, McKinlay created a unique premise centered around a London hat shop inherited by two cousins. The series’ inception blends McKinlay’s knack for humor with her fascination for niche settings, making Mim’s Whims a fresh backdrop for amateur sleuthing. Her goal? To craft mysteries that feel like a warm cup of tea with a dash of intrigue.
The Heart of Hat Shop Mystery
The series kicks off with Cloche and Dagger (2013), where Scarlett, fleeing a scandal in Florida, joins Viv in London only to find a client murdered while wearing one of their hats. In Death of a Mad Hatter (2014), the cousins tackle a poison-laced tea party during an Alice in Wonderland-themed event. At the Drop of a Hat (2015) sees them restoring a vintage bridal hat, only to stumble upon a corpse. Finally, Fatal Fascinator (2023) takes them to a castle wedding turned deadly, proving no setting is too grand for murder.
Set against the bustling Portobello Road, the series weaves themes of friendship, family, and resilience. Scarlett’s outgoing charm contrasts Viv’s reserved creativity, creating a dynamic duo whose banter sparkles. The art of hat-making adds a glamorous twist, with each book showcasing vivid descriptions of cloches, berets, and fascinators. McKinlay’s light, humorous tone and knack for red herrings keep readers guessing, while the cozy mystery style ensures a comforting yet thrilling read.
The London setting, from Notting Hill’s markets to Sussex castles, immerses readers in British culture, complete with tea, scones, and cheeky slang. Romantic tension, particularly between Scarlett and business manager Harrison Wentworth, adds a sweet undercurrent without overshadowing the mysteries. Fans praise the series for its relatable characters and unpredictable plots, making each book a delightful puzzle.
Why Hat Shop Mystery Resonates
Hat Shop Mystery has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, captivating readers with its blend of fashion and foul play. Its focus on millinery sets it apart, offering a fresh spin on the amateur sleuth trope. McKinlay’s ability to craft heartwarming relationships and clever mysteries has earned praise from outlets like Library Journal, which lauded the series’ humor and offbeat charm. Fans on Goodreads and NetGalley call the characters “like old friends,” reflecting the series’ emotional pull.
The series’ lasting appeal lies in its escapist joy—readers can lose themselves in a world where hats are art and mysteries are solved with wit. Its revival with Fatal Fascinator after a hiatus shows McKinlay’s commitment to her fans, ensuring Mim’s Whims remains a beloved destination for cozy mystery lovers.
- Publication Years: 2013–2023
- Number of Books: 7
- Genre: Cozy Amateur Sleuth Mystery
- Notable Recognition: Praised by Library Journal for humor and heart
Grab Cloche and Dagger and dive into the Hat Shop Mystery’s stylish world of clues, couture, and cozy crime-solving!