Step into the sun-soaked, laugh-filled world of the Sophie Kimball Mystery series, where quirky retirees, a meddling mom, and a reluctant sleuth named Sophie 'Phee' Kimball unravel cozy mysteries with a side of Arizona charm! Written by the husband-and-wife duo J.C. Eaton, this delightful series blends humor, heart, and whodunit intrigue, making it a must-read for fans of lighthearted crime-solving adventures.
Centered in the vibrant retirement communities of Sun City West, Arizona, the series follows Phee, a divorced, middle-aged accountant turned amateur detective, as she tackles bizarre murders with her kooky mother, Harriet, and a cast of eccentric locals. With each book delivering a standalone mystery wrapped in witty dialogue and family dynamics, Sophie Kimball Mystery is perfect for readers craving a cozy escape.
How Sophie Kimball Mystery Began
The Sophie Kimball Mystery series sprang from the creative minds of Ann I. Goldfarb and James E. Clapp, who write under the pen name J.C. Eaton. After relocating from New York to Arizona, the couple found inspiration in the quirky dynamics of their new retirement community. A friend’s suggestion to write a mystery about their local dog park sparked the idea for Phee’s adventures. Ann, a former educator with a knack for detail, and James, a retired winery manager with a flair for big ideas, combined their talents to craft humorous, character-driven stories. Their debut, Booked 4 Murder, hit shelves in 2017, launching a series that’s since charmed cozy mystery fans.
The Heart of Sophie Kimball Mystery
The series kicks off with Booked 4 Murder, where Phee investigates a string of deaths linked to a supposedly cursed book in her mother’s book club. Ditched 4 Murder follows Phee as she juggles her aunt’s chaotic wedding plans and a murder tied to a shady groom. In Broadcast 4 Murder, Harriet’s radio show takes a deadly turn when she discovers a body live on air, pulling Phee into another twisty case. Railroaded 4 Murder sees Phee infiltrating a dance group to clear a friend’s name in a model railroad club killing.
Themes of family, community, and resilience shine through, with Phee’s evolving confidence as a sleuth anchoring the series. The Arizona setting, with its blazing sun and lively retiree antics, adds a unique backdrop, while humor—often courtesy of Harriet’s Chiweenie, Streetman—keeps the tone playful. J.C. Eaton’s knack for twists and colorful characters ensures each mystery is a fresh, engaging romp.
Why Sophie Kimball Mystery Resonates
The Sophie Kimball Mystery series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre with its blend of humor, heart, and clever plotting. Fans adore Phee’s relatable journey from reluctant detective to savvy investigator, as well as the laugh-out-loud antics of Harriet and her book club crew. The series’ focus on quirky community dynamics and intergenerational bonds resonates with readers seeking warmth alongside their whodunits. Its 2018 New Mexico-Arizona Book Award win for Booked 4 Murder underscores its regional appeal and storytelling prowess.
- Publication Years: 2017–present
- Number of Books: At least 13
- Awards: Booked 4 Murder won the 2018 New Mexico-Arizona Book Award (Cozy Mystery)
Grab Booked 4 Murder and dive into the Sophie Kimball Mystery series’ sunny, suspenseful world! Whether you’re a cozy mystery veteran or a newcomer, Phee’s adventures promise a delightful blend of laughs, heart, and clever crime-solving.