Step into the sun-soaked, scandal-filled world of Jessica Huntington, where glamour meets gritty mysteries in the heart of Palm Springs! Anna Celeste Burke’s Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery series follows a wealthy divorcee turned amateur sleuth as she navigates high-society betrayals and sinister crimes with her loyal 'Cat Pack' friends. Blending cozy mystery charm with psychological depth, this series is a delightful escape for fans of wit, intrigue, and desert opulence.
Jessica Huntington, a Stanford-educated lawyer, starts as a heartbroken socialite reeling from a cheating husband and a stalled career. Armed with a Black AMEX card and a knack for uncovering secrets, she transforms into a savvy investigator, proving that money can’t buy happiness—but it can fund a thrilling chase for justice.
How Jessica Huntington Began
Anna Celeste Burke, a former professor with a knack for research, crafted the Jessica Huntington series after retiring to the Coachella Valley. Inspired by the stark contrast between Palm Springs’ glitzy facade and its hidden underbelly, Burke saw the desert as the perfect backdrop for mysteries. Her academic background fueled her ability to weave complex puzzles, while her love for cozy mysteries added humor and heart. The series debuted in 2013 with A Dead Husband, introducing Jessica’s journey from betrayal to empowerment.
The Heart of Jessica Huntington
The series kicks off with A Dead Husband, where Jessica returns to Rancho Mirage to escape her crumbling life, only to dive into solving the murder of her best friend’s husband, Roger Stone. In A Dead Sister, a cold case heats up as Jessica investigates the hit-and-run death of her high school friend Kelly, uncovering a web of lies. A Dead Daughter sees her tackling the chaotic life of Libby Van Der Woert, a troubled heiress, at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. A Dead Mother delves into family dysfunction, with Jessica confronting her own past while solving a client’s murder.
Themes of resilience, loyalty, and self-discovery shine through Jessica’s evolution from a vulnerable socialite to a confident sleuth. The Palm Springs setting, with its lavish estates and desert beauty, contrasts sharply with the series’ darker elements—greed, addiction, and betrayal. Burke’s witty prose and vivid descriptions create a cozy yet thrilling vibe, blending light-hearted banter with psychological tension. Fans praise the series for its intricate plots and relatable characters, especially Jessica’s 'Cat Pack,' a tight-knit crew that adds warmth and humor.
Why Jessica Huntington Resonates
The Jessica Huntington series captivates cozy mystery fans with its unique blend of glamour and grit. Jessica’s journey mirrors real-life struggles—overcoming betrayal, finding purpose, and building chosen family—making her a relatable heroine despite her wealth. Burke’s sharp social commentary on privilege and corruption resonates, while the Palm Springs backdrop offers a fresh twist on the cozy mystery genre. With awards and USA Today bestselling status, the series has carved a niche for readers craving smart, stylish whodunits.
- First Book Published: 2013 (A Dead Husband)
- Number of Books: 7, including A Dead Nephew
- Awards: USA Today and Wall Street Journal Bestseller
- Setting: Coachella Valley, near Palm Springs
Grab A Dead Husband and dive into Jessica Huntington’s dazzling desert mysteries—where every clue sparkles, and every twist keeps you guessing!