Step into the charming yet thrilling world of the Made in Savannah cozy mystery series, where historic cobblestone streets hide secrets and a former mafia wife seeks a fresh start! Penned by Hope Callaghan, this delightful series follows Carlita Garlucci and her daughter Mercedes as they trade New York’s gritty underworld for Savannah, Georgia’s Southern charm, only to stumble into local mysteries that keep them on their toes.
With its blend of cozy amateur sleuthing, family dynamics, and a touch of faith, Made in Savannah offers a clean, fun-filled escape for readers who love heartwarming stories with a side of suspense. Whether it’s unraveling a murder or dodging their mafia past, Carlita and Mercedes prove you can run, but you can’t hide from adventure!
How Made in Savannah Began
Hope Callaghan, an American author known for her clean, faith-infused mysteries, launched the Made in Savannah series in 2016. Inspired by her love for crafting relatable characters and vivid settings, Callaghan created Carlita Garlucci, a widow determined to honor her late husband’s dying wish to escape their mafia ties. The historic allure of Savannah, with its moss-draped oaks and ghostly charm, became the perfect backdrop for Carlita’s new chapter. Callaghan’s knack for weaving family sagas with suspense has since made the series a fan favorite, with over 20 books and counting.
The Heart of Made in Savannah
The series kicks off with Key to Savannah (2016), where Carlita discovers a mysterious key among her late husband’s belongings, leading her to inherited property in Savannah. As she and Mercedes settle in, they face vandalism and a shadowy past that refuses to stay buried. In Road to Savannah (2016), the duo’s renovations take a dark turn when a body is found on their property, forcing them to clear their names. Missing in Savannah (2017) sees Carlita hunting for a missing tenant, Elvira Cobb, whose disappearance ties to a dangerous figure from New York. Later, Cruising Family Style (2021) takes the Garluccis on a cruise, blending humor and murder with a crossover from Callaghan’s Cruise Ship Mysteries.
Made in Savannah shines through its cozy mystery style—think light suspense, no gore, and plenty of Southern hospitality. Themes of redemption, family loyalty, and starting anew resonate throughout, as Carlita transforms from a mafia wife to a savvy sleuth. Savannah’s historic district, with its haunted forts and bustling riverfront, isn’t just a setting; it’s a character, infusing each book with charm and mystery. Callaghan’s inclusion of recipes in each novel adds a delightful touch, inviting readers to savor the South.
Why Made in Savannah Resonates
The Made in Savannah series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, earning thousands of four- and five-star reviews on Amazon and Goodreads. Fans praise its clean storytelling, relatable characters, and the way it balances humor with heartfelt moments. Carlita’s journey from mob life to community pillar inspires readers, while the series’ focus on faith and family appeals to those seeking uplifting tales. Its vivid portrayal of Savannah has even sparked interest in the city’s tourism, making it a love letter to Southern culture.
- First Book Published: 2016
- Number of Books: Over 20
- Award: Mom’s Choice Award for Key to Savannah (2017)
Grab Key to Savannah and dive into the Made in Savannah cozy mystery world, where Southern charm meets sleuthing fun!