Step into the sun-soaked, thrill-packed world of the Paradise series, where the Florida Keys serve up mystery, romance, and a hefty dose of humor! Deborah Brown’s beloved Florida Keys Mystery Series follows Madison Westin, a fiery redhead who inherits a quirky beachfront motel in Tarpon Cove, only to find herself knee-deep in murder, blackmail, and small-town shenanigans. With its zany characters, fast-paced plots, and tropical vibes, this series is a perfect escape for fans of cozy mysteries with a spicy edge.
From the moment Madison steps into Tarpon Cove, she’s hooked on its charm—and its chaos. Whether she’s dodging bullets, teaming up with her Glock-toting bestie Fabiana Merceau, or navigating steamy romances, the Paradise series delivers non-stop action wrapped in a light, laugh-out-loud tone. Ready to dive into this addictive blend of suspense and sunshine? Let’s explore the heart of Paradise!
How Paradise Began
Deborah Brown, a South Florida native with a knack for storytelling, launched the Paradise series in 2011 with Crazy in Paradise. Inspired by the vibrant, quirky culture of the Florida Keys, Brown wanted to craft a world brimming with unforgettable characters, sizzling romance, and plenty of guns—seasoned with humor and charm. Her lifelong love for writing, from poetry to a romance novel stashed under her bed, culminated in this wildly entertaining series that captures the essence of tropical intrigue.
Brown’s vision was clear: create a mystery series that feels like a beach vacation but keeps you on the edge of your seat. Madison Westin, the series’ sassy protagonist, embodies this spirit, tackling Tarpon Cove’s shady underbelly with wit and grit. With over 30 books and counting, Brown’s Paradise has become a fan favorite, proving her knack for spinning tales that readers can’t put down.
The Heart of Paradise
The Paradise series kicks off with Crazy in Paradise, where Madison inherits her aunt’s motel and a slew of colorful tenants—think drunks, ex-cons, and fugitives. As she battles a shady lawyer and a conniving manager, a dead body and a kidnapping pull her into a whirlwind of danger. In Deception in Paradise, Madison’s ex-husband Jax stirs up chaos, dragging her into a murder investigation with Fabiana by her side. Trouble in Paradise sees Madison donning her PI hat to probe a fisherman’s suspicious death, while Swindled in Paradise ramps up the stakes with a high-profile murder and Fab’s boyfriend in the crosshairs.
The series thrives on its blend of cozy mystery, romance, and action, set against the vivid backdrop of Tarpon Cove’s beaches and dive bars. Themes of friendship, loyalty, and resilience shine through, especially in Madison and Fab’s unbreakable bond. Brown’s humor—think quirky tenants and snappy banter—keeps the tone light, while the suspense and spicy romances add depth. Each book stands alone but builds a richer world when read in order, making it easy to binge or dip in casually.
The Florida Keys setting is a character in itself, with its sultry heat, turquoise waters, and seedy undercurrents. Brown paints Tarpon Cove as a place where everyone knows your business—except when a murder’s afoot, and the locals clam up. This contrast fuels the series’ addictive quality, drawing readers back for more of Madison’s misadventures.
Why Paradise Resonates
The Paradise series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, blending humor and suspense with a tropical twist that keeps fans hooked. Readers rave about its fast-paced plots, likable characters, and the escapist joy of Tarpon Cove’s beachy chaos. With over 30 books, the series’ longevity speaks to Brown’s ability to keep the stakes fresh and the humor sharp, earning glowing reviews on platforms like Goodreads and Amazon.
Its appeal lies in its balance: it’s light enough for a poolside read but gritty enough to satisfy thriller fans. Madison’s evolution from motel owner to badass PI, paired with Fab’s fearless energy, inspires readers who love strong, flawed heroines. The series’ cult following proves that even a lesser-known gem can shine bright with the right mix of heart and heat.
- First Book: Crazy in Paradise (2011)
- Number of Books: 31+ as of 2024
- Setting: Tarpon Cove, Florida Keys
- Genres: Cozy Mystery, Romance, Humor
Grab Crazy in Paradise and dive into the wild, sun-drenched world of Tarpon Cove! Whether you’re craving a murder mystery or a rom-com with a side of suspense, Deborah Brown’s Paradise series is your ticket to a thrilling escape.