Starting the Liz Lucas Cozy Mystery Series
If you are looking for a cozy mystery series featuring a mature heroine, delightful animal companions, scenic Northern California backdrops, and delicious culinary recipes, USA Today bestselling author Dianne Harman's Liz Lucas Cozy Mystery series is a perfect fit. The series centers around Liz Lucas, a 52-year-old widow who starts a new chapter in her life by running the serene Red Cedar Lodge and Spa, nestled in the forests north of San Francisco. However, peace is frequently disrupted by clever murders, prompting Liz to step up as an amateur sleuth.
For the best reading experience, it is highly recommended to read this series in publication order. While each mystery is resolved within its own book, the overarching character development, Liz's relationship with criminal defense attorney Roger Langley, and the introduction of her loyal dogs follow a clear chronological progression. Readers who jump around may find themselves spoiled on major life milestones, such as Liz's wedding day in the fourth book.
Liz Lucas Cozy Mystery Books in Order
The series consists of 13 novels published between 2015 and 2020. Below is the complete reading list in chronological and publication order:
- Murder in Cottage #6 (2015) – The series kicks off when a guest is found dead in one of the Red Cedar Spa cottages, forcing Liz to investigate to clear her business's name.
- Murder and Brandy Boy (2015) – Liz investigates the suspicious death of an intern, aided by her St. Bernard, Brandy Boy.
- The Death Card (2015) – A local deputy is murdered, and Liz has to work alongside a bumbling police chief to solve the case.
- Murder at the Bed & Breakfast (2015) – Liz and Roger Langley's wedding day is turned upside down when a shocking murder occurs at the reception venue.
- The Blue Butterfly (2016) – The discovery of an endangered Lotis Blue butterfly in a logging forest sparks conflict and murder in the small town of Red Cedar.
- Murder at the Big T Lodge (2016) – Liz and Roger travel to Texas for a hunting trip, only for Roger's friend, the California Attorney General, to turn up dead. Liz is assisted by a local bullmastiff named Sam.
- Murder in Calistoga (2017) – Liz visits a friend's newly opened spa in Calistoga, California, only to find herself investigating a murder in the sauna.
- Murder in San Francisco (2017) – When a wealthy octogenarian dies, Liz investigates to protect a pregnant woman who stands to inherit his massive estate.
- Murdered by Superstition (2018) – A mysterious doll with rumored occult powers brings sinister occurrences to Red Cedar.
- Murdered by Prejudice (2019) – Liz teams up with an FBI agent to track down a serial killer targeting federal employees at the spa.
- Murdered by Success (2019) – A young tech millionaire rents out the spa, bringing greed, jealousy, and eventually murder to Liz's doorstep.
- Murder in the Forest (2020) – A former police officer enlists Liz's help to find a runaway teenager, leading to a grim discovery in the woods.
- Murdered for Millions (2020) – The final book in the series centers on four tech developers with a million-dollar app, where Liz must find a killer among her spa guests when the local police chief falls ill.
Key Characters and Canine Sidekicks
Unlike many cozy mysteries that feature younger sleuths, Liz Lucas is a relatable, mature 52-year-old widow. Her growth throughout the books is supported by a warm cast of recurring characters:
- Roger Langley: A criminal defense attorney who starts as Liz's boyfriend and becomes her husband in Book 4. His legal background and supportive nature anchor Liz's sleuthing adventures.
- Brandy Boy: A lovable St. Bernard who joins Liz early in the series and helps sniff out clues.
- Winston: Liz's protective and energetic boxer dog who provides constant backup during her investigations.
- Chef Wes and Gertie: Key local business owners and staff members who provide the small-town community feel, local gossip, and culinary inspiration.
What to Know Before You Start
Each book in the Liz Lucas series wraps up with a collection of the mouthwatering recipes mentioned in the story, such as Gertie’s Diner classics, gourmet spa dishes, and home-cooked comfort foods. Dianne Harman's background as a yoga instructor and antique appraiser shines through in the spa setting and the attention to detail in the characters' lifestyles.
Additionally, while Dianne Harman has authored other successful cozy mystery series, such as the Cedar Bay series and the Cottonwood Springs series, they are separate and distinct. There are no major crossover books, meaning you can enjoy the Liz Lucas series as a self-contained 13-book journey without needing to read her other franchises.