Step into the sun-soaked, suspense-filled world of Murders by Design, where interior designer Deva Dunne transforms spaces and solves crimes with equal flair! Jean Harrington’s cozy mystery series, set in vibrant Naples, Florida, blends the charm of home decor with the thrill of murder investigations. Perfect for fans of light-hearted whodunits with a touch of Southern spice, this series hooks readers with its quirky characters and twisty plots.
Deva, a young widow rebuilding her life, brings a fresh perspective to the cozy mystery genre. Her knack for spotting details—whether it’s a misplaced throw pillow or a hidden clue—makes her an irresistible amateur sleuth. With romance, humor, and a dash of danger, Murders by Design is a delightful escape into a world where every room holds a secret.
How Murders by Design Began
Jean Harrington, a Massachusetts native turned Naples resident, launched Murders by Design in 2012 with Designed for Death. After years of teaching writing, Harrington drew inspiration from her new Florida home, weaving its subtropical allure into her stories. Her love for mysteries and romance shines through, as she crafts Deva Dunne as a relatable heroine who stumbles into sleuthing while chasing her design dreams. Published by Carina Press, the series quickly found a niche among cozy mystery fans for its unique interior design angle.
The Heart of Murders by Design
The series kicks off with Designed for Death (2012), where Deva’s condo redesign takes a deadly turn when she finds her client, an exotic dancer named Treasure, murdered. The Monet Murders (2012) ups the ante as Deva uncovers a stolen Monet painting and a dead cook, navigating a web of deceit with her detective beau, Victor Rossi. Killer Kitchens (2013) sees Deva tackling a restaurant explosion and a poisoned guest, while Rooms to Die For (2014) finds her unraveling a shop owner’s suspicious death at a design mall.
Murders by Design stands out for its blend of cozy charm and deeper character exploration. Themes of grief, resilience, and reinvention resonate as Deva heals from her husband’s death while solving crimes. The Florida setting—think humid summers, Gulf breezes, and chic condos—adds a vivid backdrop, while Harrington’s dry humor and well-plotted mysteries keep readers guessing. Unlike traditional cozies, the series sprinkles in light romance and edgier crimes, appealing to a broad mystery audience.
Why Murders by Design Resonates
Murders by Design has carved a cozy corner in the mystery world, captivating readers with its niche interior design hook and Deva’s plucky spirit. Fans praise its witty dialogue and Naples flavor, with reviews calling it “a page-turner” and “refreshingly light-hearted.” Though not a bestseller, the series’ loyal following cherishes its escapist fun and relatable heroine. For cozy mystery lovers, it’s a hidden gem that balances comfort with clever twists.
- First Book Published: 2012 (Designed for Death)
- Number of Books: 5
- Setting: Naples, Florida
- Publisher: Carina Press
Ready to unravel a mystery with a side of style? Grab Designed for Death and dive into Murders by Design’s cozy, crime-filled world!