Step into the cozy yet thrilling world of Mack’s Bar Mysteries, where a Milwaukee bar owner with a knack for solving crimes pours drinks and uncovers secrets! Written under the pseudonym Allyson K. Abbott by Beth Amos, this series blends the charm of cozy mysteries with the intrigue of medical anomalies, following Mackenzie 'Mack' Dalton as she uses her synesthesia—a rare neurological condition—to crack cases in her lively tavern.
With a cast of quirky regulars, a dash of romance, and plots that keep you guessing, Mack’s Bar Mysteries offers a refreshing twist on the amateur sleuth genre. Whether you’re a fan of clever whodunits or just love a good story with a side of craft cocktails, this series is your next binge-read!
How Mack’s Bar Mysteries Began
Beth Amos, a Wisconsin ER nurse with a flair for storytelling, created the Mack’s Bar Mysteries under her pseudonym Allyson K. Abbott—a playful nod with initials spelling 'AKA.' Drawing from her medical background, Amos crafted Mack’s synesthesia as a unique crime-solving tool, inspired by the real-life condition where senses intertwine, like tasting sounds or seeing smells. Launched in 2013 with Murder on the Rocks, the series grew from Amos’s love for mysteries and her knack for weaving complex, character-driven plots.
The Heart of Mack’s Bar Mysteries
The series kicks off with Murder on the Rocks (2013), where Mack discovers a body in the alley behind her bar, eerily mirroring her father’s unsolved murder. Her heightened senses lead her to team up with detective Duncan Albright, sparking both clues and chemistry. In Murder with a Twist (2014), Mack dives deeper into crime-solving, tackling a suspicious suicide and a missing child case, all while navigating her growing feelings for Duncan. In the Drink (2015) sees Mack investigating a cold case for a patron, only to face a media frenzy and a cunning adversary testing her abilities. By Last Call (2018), the sixth book, Mack’s consulting gig with the Milwaukee PD takes a personal turn as she uncovers shocking secrets tied to a friend.
Set in the vibrant, relatable backdrop of Milwaukee, the series shines with themes of community, resilience, and embracing one’s quirks. Mack’s bar, inherited from her father, is a hub for the Capone Club—a group of regulars who love puzzling over crimes, making every book feel like a lively pub quiz with stakes. The cozy mystery vibe, paired with medical intrigue from Mack’s synesthesia, creates a unique flavor, while Amos’s witty dialogue and twisty plots keep readers hooked. Drink recipes sprinkled throughout add a fun, interactive touch!
Why Mack’s Bar Mysteries Resonates
Mack’s Bar Mysteries has carved a niche in the cozy mystery world, earning praise for its fresh take on the genre. Fans on Goodreads and Amazon rave about Mack’s relatable strength and the series’ ability to balance lighthearted barroom banter with gripping suspense. RT Book Reviews called Murder on the Rocks a 'hit,' awarding it 4.5 stars, and Fresh Fiction lauded the 'sleuthing pleasure' of Murder with a Twist. The series’ Milwaukee setting and diverse, well-developed characters resonate with readers craving authentic, community-driven stories.
Though not a household name, the series’ loyal following and Amos’s storytelling prowess—honed through her Mattie Winston mysteries as Annelise Ryan—prove its staying power. Its blend of heart, humor, and brain-teasing mysteries makes it a gem for cozy mystery enthusiasts seeking something new.
- First Book: Murder on the Rocks (2013)
- Total Books: 6
- Author: Allyson K. Abbott (Beth Amos)
- Setting: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Grab Murder on the Rocks and dive into the cozy, clever world of Mack’s Bar Mysteries—where every clue comes with a side of cocktails!