Step into the sun-soaked, thrilling world of the Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery series, where turquoise waves crash, mysteries unfold, and a determined lifeguard named Kailani Pope chases her dreams under the Hawaiian sun! Written by Kathi Daley, this cozy mystery series blends heart-pounding whodunits with a touch of romance, set against the vibrant backdrop of Oahu’s beaches. Perfect for readers craving an escape to paradise with a side of suspense, this series is your ticket to a tropical adventure.
With its engaging protagonist, vivid island setting, and clever mysteries, Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery invites you to dive into a world where every sunrise might reveal a new clue. Let’s explore how this delightful series came to be, its captivating stories, and why it continues to charm cozy mystery fans.
How Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery Began
Kathi Daley, a USA Today bestselling author based in Lake Tahoe, crafted the Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery series to transport readers to the lush landscapes of Hawaii. Inspired by her love for coastal settings and her knack for weaving romance into mysteries, Daley introduced Kailani ‘Lani’ Pope in 2016 with Murder at Dolphin Bay. Her goal was to create a cozy mystery series that felt like a vacation, filled with relatable characters and island charm. Drawing from her own experiences with nature and community, Daley infused the series with authentic Hawaiian culture and a strong sense of ohana (family).
The Heart of Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery
The series kicks off with Murder at Dolphin Bay, where Lani, a lifeguard at Dolphin Bay Resort, stumbles upon a guest’s murder. Determined to prove her worth to the Honolulu Police Department—where her father and five brothers serve—she dives into solving the case before her brother. In Murder at Sunrise, Lani investigates a death during a summer solstice celebration, uncovering secrets among her senior bingo group friends. Murder at Christmas brings festive chaos when Lani finds Santa—played by a beloved senior—dead behind the resort. Murder at Waters Edge takes Lani to Maui, where a friend’s sister dies in a suspicious accident during a high-stakes contest.
Themes of family, ambition, and community shine through, with Lani’s journey to join the police reflecting her resilience and determination. The Hawaiian setting isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a character, with vivid descriptions of Oahu’s beaches, surf, and cultural traditions like sunrise ceremonies. Daley’s light, engaging style balances suspense with humor and a budding romance between Lani and Luke Austin, making each book a cozy, page-turning escape.
The series’ strength lies in its diverse cast, from Lani’s protective brothers to the quirky senior sleuths who aid her investigations. Whether it’s unraveling red herrings or exploring Hawaiian history, each story keeps readers guessing until the final twist.
Why Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery Resonates
Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, captivating fans with its tropical allure and relatable heroine. Readers praise Daley’s ability to craft immersive settings, with reviews highlighting how the series transports them to Hawaii’s shores. Its blend of mystery, romance, and cultural authenticity appeals to those seeking light yet gripping reads. The series’ crossover with Daley’s Zoe Donovan Mysteries in Murder at Waters Edge delighted fans, showcasing her skill in connecting her fictional worlds.
With eight books and two bundled collections, the series has built a loyal following, offering a perfect blend of escapism and suspense. Its lasting appeal lies in Lani’s growth, the tight-knit community, and the promise of more adventures in paradise.
- Publication Years: 2016–2019
- Number of Books: 8
- Setting: Oahu and Maui, Hawaii
- Author: Kathi Daley
Grab Murder at Dolphin Bay and dive into the Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery series’ world of sun, surf, and suspense! Whether you’re a cozy mystery veteran or a newcomer, Lani’s adventures will whisk you away to Hawaii’s enchanting shores.