Step into the sun-soaked, suspense-filled world of the Miami Jones Florida Mystery series, where palm trees sway, mysteries unfold, and private investigator Miami Jones tackles cases with wit and a laid-back charm! Penned by USA Today bestselling author A.J. Stewart, this series blends gritty noir with Florida’s vibrant culture, offering readers a refreshing take on the detective genre. With a protagonist who’s more beach bar than brooding, the series captures the heart of the Sunshine State.
Unlike the typical hardboiled detective, Miami Jones is a former baseball player turned PI, navigating Florida’s colorful landscapes with a sharp mind and a penchant for palm tree print shirts. Fans of mystery and suspense will find themselves hooked on his adventures, which combine humor, intricate plots, and a vivid sense of place.
How Miami Jones Florida Mystery Began
A.J. Stewart, a seasoned storyteller with a global background, found his muse in Florida’s eclectic charm. Having lived in places like Australia, Japan, and Norway, Stewart always returned to the Sunshine State, captivated by its casual vibe and diverse personalities. His love for Florida inspired the Miami Jones series, launched in 2012 with Stiff Arm Steal. Stewart’s goal was to craft a detective who broke the mold—no tragic past, no demons—just a clever guy solving crimes with a smirk and a network of quirky allies.
The Heart of Miami Jones Florida Mystery
The series kicks off with Stiff Arm Steal, where Miami hunts for a stolen Heisman Trophy, diving into a web of jealous husbands, feisty ex-cons, and retired athletes. In Offside Trap, he investigates a star athlete’s suspicious death, uncovering ties to Miami’s drug world. Deep Rough sees him tackling sabotage at a South Florida golf club, dodging alligators and corporate greed. King Tide traps Miami in a Palm Beach hotel during a hurricane, with a murder mystery that keeps readers guessing.
Themes of loyalty, resilience, and humor run through the series, set against Florida’s lush backdrop—from Miami’s bustling streets to the tranquil Bahamas. Stewart’s first-person narrative, peppered with sharp dialogue and vivid descriptions, brings the state to life. While some readers note occasional vagueness in scene transitions, the series’ strength lies in its engaging protagonist and authentic Florida flavor, appealing to fans of Carl Hiaasen and Robert B. Parker.
Miami Jones stands out for his lack of clichés. He’s not haunted by a dark past but grounded by strong relationships, like his thriving romance with fiancée Danielle Castle, a Florida Department of Law Enforcement agent. The series’ sports references, drawn from Miami’s baseball background, add depth without alienating non-sports fans, making it accessible and fun.
Why Miami Jones Florida Mystery Resonates
The Miami Jones series has carved a niche in the mystery genre, earning praise for its witty writing and engaging plots. With 19 books and counting, it’s a fan favorite for those craving Florida-set detective tales, a rarity in the genre. Readers on Goodreads and Amazon laud its fast-paced stories and relatable characters, with reviews calling it “a five-star romp” and “addictive as potato chips.” Its blend of humor, heart, and suspense keeps fans returning to Longboard Kelly’s, Miami’s favorite bar, for more.
Stewart’s ability to weave Florida’s culture into gripping mysteries has built a loyal following. The series’ lighthearted take on noir, paired with its vivid settings, makes it a standout, offering escapism and a taste of the Sunshine State’s wild side.
- First Book Published: 2012 (Stiff Arm Steal)
- Number of Books: 19 (as of 2025)
- Setting: Primarily Florida, with ventures to the Bahamas
- Author: A.J. Stewart, USA Today bestseller
Grab Stiff Arm Steal and dive into the Miami Jones Florida Mystery series’ sunlit world of suspense, humor, and heart!