Step into the wickedly fun world of Lizzy & Diesel, where cupcakes, supernatural stones, and a dash of romance collide in a thrilling urban fantasy adventure! Written by #1 New York Times bestselling author Janet Evanovich, the Lizzy & Diesel series follows pastry chef Elizabeth 'Lizzy' Tucker and the charmingly mysterious Diesel as they race to find seven magical stones, each tied to a deadly sin. Set in the quirky backdrop of Salem, Massachusetts, this series blends humor, mystery, and just the right amount of paranormal pizzazz to keep readers hooked.
With a mischievous monkey named Carl and a villainous cousin, Gerwulf Grimoire, hot on their trail, Lizzy and Diesel’s escapades are anything but ordinary. If you’re craving a lighthearted yet action-packed read, this series is your perfect recipe for fun!
How Lizzy & Diesel Began
Janet Evanovich, renowned for her Stephanie Plum series, introduced Diesel as a supporting character in her 'Between-the-Numbers' Plum novellas before giving him his own spotlight. Launched in 2010 with Wicked Appetite, the Lizzy & Diesel series was born from Evanovich’s desire to explore a more supernatural narrative while retaining her signature blend of comedy and suspense. Co-authored with Phoef Sutton for later books, the series reflects Evanovich’s knack for crafting quirky characters and fast-paced plots that don’t take themselves too seriously.
The Heart of Lizzy & Diesel
The series kicks off with Wicked Appetite (2010), where Lizzy, a talented baker, discovers she’s an 'Unmentionable' with the ability to sense magical objects. Teamed with Diesel, who can unlock anything (doors, bras, you name it!), they hunt for the Gluttony Stone before Gerwulf gets his hands on it. Wicked Business (2012) ups the ante as the duo chases the Luxuria Stone, tied to lust, through Boston’s catacombs and beyond. Wicked Charms (2015), co-written with Phoef Sutton, sees them searching for the Avarice Stone amidst pirate treasure and mummified bootleggers.
Themes of good versus evil, self-discovery, and forbidden attraction weave through the series, all wrapped in Evanovich’s trademark humor. Salem’s spooky charm and a cast of eccentric sidekicks—like a spell-casting friend and a one-eyed cat—add flavor to the mix. While the series leans into urban fantasy, its light paranormal elements and focus on mystery make it accessible to fans of cozy mysteries and romantic suspense alike.
Why Lizzy & Diesel Resonates
Despite only three books, Lizzy & Diesel has carved a niche among Evanovich fans for its playful tone and addictive pacing. Readers love the chemistry between Lizzy and Diesel, whose will-they-won’t-they dynamic keeps the pages turning. The series’ blend of supernatural stakes and everyday relatability—Lizzy’s struggles with bills and baking resonate with many—makes it a delightful escape. Though fans clamor for a fourth book, the existing trilogy stands as a testament to Evanovich’s ability to craft stories that are equal parts zany and heartfelt.
Its influence extends to readers seeking lighter urban fantasy, offering a refreshing contrast to darker paranormal tales. For those who fell for Stephanie Plum’s antics, Lizzy & Diesel delivers a similar vibe with a magical twist, cementing Evanovich’s legacy as a master of fun, genre-blending fiction.
- Publication Years: 2010–2015
- Number of Books: 3
- Genres: Urban Fantasy, Mystery, Romance
- Setting: Salem, Massachusetts
Grab Wicked Appetite and dive into Lizzy & Diesel’s deliciously thrilling world of magic, mystery, and cupcakes today!