Dive into the captivating world of the Medlar Mystery series, where small-town secrets unravel with a dash of charm and suspense! Penned by New York Times bestselling author Jude Devereaux, this cozy mystery series follows retired romance novelist Sara Medlar and her quirky team of amateur sleuths as they tackle chilling murders in Lachlan, Florida. With its blend of heartfelt family ties, gripping justice-driven plots, and a sprinkle of Southern intrigue, Medlar Mystery hooks readers from the first page.
Unlike typical whodunits, the series shines with Devereaux’s knack for weaving emotional depth into suspense, making every clue and character feel personal. Whether you’re a cozy mystery fan or new to the genre, the Medlar Mystery books promise a delightful escape into a world of hidden pasts and clever detective work.
How Medlar Mystery Began
Jude Devereaux, renowned for her historical and contemporary romances, ventured into the mystery genre with the Medlar Mystery series in 2018. Inspired by her love for storytelling and complex characters, Devereaux crafted a series that blends her signature romantic flair with the thrill of amateur sleuthing. Set in the fictional town of Lachlan, Florida, the series reflects her experiences living in Florida, infusing the narrative with authentic Southern charm. The idea sparked from Devereaux’s desire to explore family dynamics and unresolved pasts, creating a trio of sleuths whose bond drives the heart of each mystery.
The Heart of Medlar Mystery
The Medlar Mystery series kicks off with A Willing Murder (2018), where Sara Medlar, her niece Kate, and charming houseguest Jackson Wyatt uncover two skeletons buried in Lachlan, sparking a quest to solve a decades-old crime. In A Justified Murder (2019), the trio investigates the shocking death of a beloved local, revealing secrets the town prefers to keep buried. A Forgotten Murder (2020) takes the team to Oxley Manor in England, where they reenact a 1994 disappearance to unearth a killer. The latest, An Unfinished Murder (2024), delves into Lachlan House’s dark history, with a skeleton and hidden jewels stirring Kate’s forgotten childhood memories.
Themes of family, justice, and confronting the past pulse through the series. Lachlan’s small-town setting amplifies the stakes, where gossip and grudges hide clues to long-buried crimes. Devereaux’s cozy mystery style balances suspense with humor and heart, with witty banter between Sara, Kate, and Jack adding levity. The Florida backdrop, with its sultry charm, contrasts the grim murders, while occasional settings like England in A Forgotten Murder add variety to the sleuthing adventures.
Why Medlar Mystery Resonates
The Medlar Mystery series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, captivating fans with its relatable characters and intricate plots. Readers praise the trio’s chemistry, with Sara’s wisdom, Kate’s curiosity, and Jack’s charm creating a found-family dynamic that grounds the suspense. Devereaux’s shift from romance to mystery showcases her versatility, earning accolades like glowing Kirkus Reviews for A Willing Murder and A Justified Murder. While some critique the latest book for its complex cast, the series’ ability to blend emotional depth with clever twists keeps fans eagerly awaiting more.
Its lasting appeal lies in its universal themes—seeking truth, healing old wounds, and building bonds—making it a comforting yet thrilling read for mystery lovers. The series’ niche status only adds to its allure, offering a fresh take on cozy mysteries for those craving something new.
- Publication Years: 2018–2024
- Number of Books: 5
- Main Characters: Sara Medlar, Kate, Jackson Wyatt
- Setting: Primarily Lachlan, Florida
Ready to unravel small-town secrets with the Medlar Three? Grab A Willing Murder and step into the cozy, thrilling world of Medlar Mystery today!