Step into the sun-drenched, mystery-filled world of the High Desert Cozy Mystery series, where antique appraiser Marty Morgan trades heartbreak for sleuthing in the California desert! Written by USA Today Bestselling Author Dianne Harman, this charming cozy mystery series blends suspense, quirky characters, and a touch of romance, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Palm Springs. With her psychic sister, Laura, a pink-bootie-wearing Labrador named Duke, and detective boyfriend Jeff, Marty dives into murder cases that keep readers guessing.
Perfect for fans of lighthearted whodunits, this series offers a delightful mix of desert charm, antique lore, and heartwarming moments. Whether you’re a cozy mystery veteran or a newcomer, High Desert Cozy Mystery promises an engaging escape filled with intrigue and recipes to boot!
How High Desert Cozy Mystery Began
Dianne Harman, a former antique appraiser and dog lover, drew inspiration from her own experiences to craft the High Desert Cozy Mystery series. After years running a national antique business and traveling the world, Harman settled in California, where the desert’s allure sparked her imagination. Launched in 2015 with Murder & The Monkey Band, the series reflects her passion for art, food, and furry companions, weaving these elements into cozy mysteries that feel both personal and universal.
Harman’s goal was simple: create stories that entertain without gore, focusing on community, clever clues, and a dash of psychic flair. Her background in yoga and global cuisine also shines through, with recipes tucked into each book, making the series a multisensory delight.
The Heart of High Desert Cozy Mystery
The series kicks off with Murder & The Monkey Band, where Marty, newly divorced, appraises a collection of antique figurines, only to stumble into a murder case. In Murder & The Secret Cave, she uncovers a stash of illegal Native American artifacts, leading to another deadly puzzle. Murdered by Country Music takes readers to a lively music festival where a chef’s death stirs up suspects, while Murdered by Plastic Surgery explores vanity and vengeance in a high-stakes medical mystery.
Themes of resilience, friendship, and second chances run deep, as Marty rebuilds her life while solving crimes. The Palm Springs setting, with its stark deserts and quirky communities, acts as a vivid character, enriched by historical tidbits about Native American culture and antique collecting. Harman’s style is breezy yet suspenseful, balancing cozy staples—dogs, romance, recipes—with intricate plots that keep readers hooked.
Duke, the black Labrador who insists on pink booties to brave the desert floor, steals hearts, while Laura’s psychic visions add a mystical twist without overpowering the grounded storytelling. From polo clubs to music festivals, each book explores unique subcultures, making every mystery feel fresh and immersive.
Why High Desert Cozy Mystery Resonates
The High Desert Cozy Mystery series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, earning praise for its relatable heroine and evocative setting. Fans on Goodreads and Amazon laud its “entertaining” plots and “vivid” desert descriptions, with many calling it a “must-read” for cozy enthusiasts. Harman’s knack for blending everyday life with extraordinary mysteries appeals to readers seeking escapism with heart.
Its lasting appeal lies in its celebration of reinvention—Marty’s journey from divorcee to confident sleuth inspires readers of all ages. The series’ focus on community and clever, bloodless mysteries makes it a comforting yet thrilling read, perfect for curling up with a cup of tea and a curious mind.
- First Book Published: October 2015
- Number of Books: 17
- Author: Dianne Harman, USA Today Bestselling Author
- Genre: Cozy Mystery
Grab Murder & The Monkey Band and dive into the High Desert Cozy Mystery’s world of sunlit suspense and desert delights!