Step into the charming yet thrilling world of the Josie Prescott Antiques Mysteries, where dusty treasures and clever sleuthing collide in coastal New Hampshire! Penned by Jane K. Cleland, this cozy mystery series follows antiques dealer Josie Prescott as she unravels murders with a keen eye for both clues and collectibles. With over a dozen books, it’s a delightful blend of whodunit suspense, rich character arcs, and fascinating antiques lore that keeps readers hooked.
Perfect for fans of cozy mysteries or anyone who loves a good puzzle sprinkled with vintage charm, Josie’s adventures offer a refreshing take on the genre. From hidden trunks to Jane Austen’s lost letters, each case is a treasure hunt wrapped in intrigue!
How Josie Prescott Antiques Mysteries Began
Jane K. Cleland, a former antiques dealer herself, launched the series in 2006 with Consigned to Death. Inspired by her own experiences in the antiques trade, Cleland crafted Josie Prescott as a savvy, ethical sleuth who moves to Rocky Point, New Hampshire, after a scandal rocks her New York career. The series was born from Cleland’s love for storytelling and her desire to weave her expertise into cozy mysteries that educate as much as they entertain. Her authentic voice and knack for suspense earned the series critical acclaim, including Agatha Award nominations.
The Heart of Josie Prescott Antiques Mysteries
The series kicks off with Consigned to Death, where Josie, newly settled in Rocky Point, is accused of murder after a client’s death. She clears her name by diving into the victim’s shady dealings, using her antiques knowledge to uncover clues. In Deadly Appraisal (2007), Josie investigates a murder at a women’s guild gala, blending vintage fashion with deadly secrets. Hidden Treasure (2020) sees Josie and her husband Ty renovating a Victorian home, only to find a mysterious trunk linked to a disappearance and murder. The latest, Jane Austen’s Lost Letters (2021), has Josie chasing rare letters tied to her father’s past, racing against danger.
Set against New Hampshire’s rugged coast, the series shines with its cozy yet suspenseful tone. Themes of trust, resilience, and community thread through Josie’s journey, while her appraisals—think Tiffany lamps or rare dolls—offer a crash course in antiques. Cleland’s plots are clever, with twists that reward attentive readers, and her cast, from police chief Ellis to assistant Gretchen, feels like family by book three. The setting, with its salty breezes and quaint charm, is practically a character itself.
Why Josie Prescott Antiques Mysteries Resonates
The Josie Prescott Antiques Mysteries have carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre by blending niche expertise with universal appeal. Fans rave about the antiques insights, which make each book feel like a backstage pass to Antiques Roadshow. Cleland’s storytelling, praised by outlets like Publishers Weekly, balances heart and suspense, making Josie a relatable yet sharp heroine. With awards like the David Award for Best Novel, the series has built a loyal following among cozy fans and antiques buffs alike, proving that even a lesser-known gem can shine brightly.
- First Book: Consigned to Death (2006)
- Latest Book: Jane Austen’s Lost Letters (2021)
- Number of Books: 14
- Awards: Two David Awards for Best Novel, Agatha Award finalist
Ready to hunt for clues with Josie? Grab Consigned to Death and dive into the cozy, collectible world of Josie Prescott Antiques Mysteries!