Step into the quirky, crime-solving world of Kenni Lowry, where Southern charm meets ghostly guidance in the cozy streets of Cottonwood, Kentucky! Tonya Kappes’ Kenni Lowry Mystery series is a delightful blend of cozy mysteries, small-town shenanigans, and a touch of the paranormal, following Sheriff Kenni Lowry as she tackles murders with her trusty hound Duke and the spectral wisdom of her late grandfather, Poppa. Perfect for fans of fried food and fiendish plots, this series serves up suspense with a side of sass.
With nine books and counting, Kenni’s adventures have captured readers’ hearts, offering a cozy escape into a world where gossip travels faster than a Kentucky wildfire and secrets lurk behind every charming facade. Whether you’re a mystery buff or just craving a dose of Southern hospitality, Kenni Lowry’s tales are sure to keep you hooked!
How Kenni Lowry Began
Tonya Kappes, a USA Today bestselling author known for her Southern-flavored cozy mysteries, launched the Kenni Lowry series in 2016 with Fixin’ to Die. Inspired by her Kentucky roots and love for quirky characters, Kappes crafted Cottonwood as a vibrant backdrop where small-town life collides with big-time mysteries. The idea of a young female sheriff guided by her grandfather’s ghost added a unique paranormal twist, setting the series apart in the cozy mystery genre. Kappes’ knack for humor and heart, honed through her prolific career, brought Kenni to life as a relatable, determined heroine.
The Heart of Kenni Lowry
The series kicks off with Fixin’ to Die (2016), where Kenni, Cottonwood’s newly elected sheriff, investigates a doctor’s murder and a jewelry store robbery, discovering Poppa’s ghost has been keeping crime at bay. In Southern Fried (2016), a murder tied to a secret-laden cookbook tests Kenni’s growing confidence, spiced with her budding romance with Deputy Finn Vincent. Ax to Grind (2017) dives into a scandalous manuscript that leads to a deadly cover-up, while Thick as Thieves (2025) sees Kenni juggling wedding plans and a judge’s murder.
Themes of community, resilience, and family shine through, wrapped in Kappes’ signature Southern humor. Cottonwood’s quirky residents—from nosy neighbors to gossiping shopkeepers—create a lively setting where every mystery feels personal. The paranormal element, with Poppa’s ghostly guidance, adds a heartwarming layer, blending spooky fun with emotional depth. Kappes’ fast-paced plots, filled with twists and red herrings, keep readers guessing, while Kenni’s wit and determination make her a standout sleuth.
Why Kenni Lowry Resonates
The Kenni Lowry series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery world, earning praise for its Southern charm and engaging mysteries. Fans adore Kappes’ ability to balance humor, suspense, and heart, with reviews highlighting the series’ addictive quality and Cottonwood’s vivid atmosphere. Its light paranormal touch appeals to readers seeking a fresh spin on the genre, while Kenni’s relatable struggles—balancing duty, love, and family—resonate widely. As Kappes continues to expand the series, its growing fanbase eagerly awaits each new adventure.
- First Book: Fixin’ to Die (June 2016)
- Latest Book: Thick as Thieves (February 2025)
- Total Books: 11 (as of 2025)
- Publisher: Henery Press
Grab Fixin’ to Die and dive into Kenni Lowry’s world of Southern cozy mysteries, where every page is packed with charm, chills, and a whole lot of Kentucky heart!