Step into the charming world of the Madoc & Janet Rhys series, where a Canadian Mountie and his quick-witted fiancée unravel cozy mysteries in the picturesque wilds of New Brunswick. Penned by Charlotte MacLeod under the pseudonym Alisa Craig, this delightful series blends wit, romance, and clever puzzles, offering a refreshing escape from gritty crime dramas. Perfect for fans of lighthearted whodunits, it’s a hidden gem that captures the heart with its quirky characters and small-town charm.
With no graphic violence or vulgarity, the series invites readers to solve crimes alongside a lovable duo whose banter and blossoming love story add warmth to every page. Ready to discover a cozy mystery series that’s as inviting as a cup of tea on a snowy Canadian evening? Let’s explore!
How Madoc & Janet Rhys Began
Charlotte MacLeod, a Canadian-born author who later became a U.S. citizen, was a master of the cozy mystery genre, known for her ability to craft engaging stories with humor and heart. Writing as Alisa Craig, she introduced Madoc Rhys, a Royal Canadian Mounted Police inspector, and Janet Wadman, his resourceful partner, in 1980 with A Pint of Murder. MacLeod’s love for her native Canada shines through in the series’ vivid rural settings, inspired by her childhood in New Brunswick. Her goal was to create mysteries that entertained without relying on gore, appealing to readers who craved clever plots and memorable characters.
MacLeod’s background in advertising and short-story writing honed her knack for concise, witty prose, which she brought to this series. The Madoc & Janet Rhys books reflect her signature style: a blend of screwball comedy, romance, and intricate mysteries, all set against the backdrop of Canada’s Maritime provinces.
The Heart of Madoc & Janet Rhys
The series kicks off with A Pint of Murder (1980), where Janet suspects foul play when her friend Agatha dies from tainted green beans. Enter Madoc Rhys, a seemingly unassuming Mountie who proves his detective prowess, sparking a romance with Janet. In Murder Goes Mumming (1981), the newly engaged couple’s Christmas getaway turns deadly at a quirky family estate, blending holiday cheer with murder. A Dismal Thing to Do (1986) sees Janet caught in a crime wave after a car theft and an attempt on her life, with Madoc racing to the rescue. The series wraps up with The Wrong Rite (1992), taking the duo to Wales for a family celebration that, naturally, involves murder.
Themes of community, loyalty, and clever problem-solving run throughout, set in the tight-knit, often eccentric world of rural Canada. MacLeod’s New Brunswick feels alive, with snowy backroads and gossipy villages that ground the mysteries in a relatable yet enchanting setting. Her humor—think sharp dialogue and oddball suspects—keeps the tone light, while the romance between Madoc and Janet adds a sweet, slow-burn charm. Fans compare the duo to a Canadian Nick and Nora Charles, their banter making every investigation a joy.
Why Madoc & Janet Rhys Resonates
The Madoc & Janet Rhys series carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre by offering a distinctly Canadian perspective, free from the violence that dominates modern thrillers. Its focus on character-driven storytelling and wholesome romance has earned it a loyal, if small, fanbase, with readers on Goodreads praising its “light, fun” vibe and “quirky rural characters.” MacLeod’s ability to balance humor and suspense influenced later cozy mystery writers, proving that mysteries could be both smart and heartwarming.
Though less famous than MacLeod’s Peter Shandy or Sarah Kelling series, Madoc and Janet’s adventures remain a testament to the enduring appeal of cozy mysteries. Their stories remind us that even in a small town, big adventures—and bigger hearts—await.
- Publication Years: 1980–1992
- Number of Books: 5
- Setting: New Brunswick, Canada (with one book in Wales)
- Genre: Cozy Mystery
Grab A Pint of Murder and dive into the Madoc & Janet Rhys series for a cozy mystery adventure filled with wit, romance, and Canadian charm!