Step into the breezy, thrilling world of the Susan Hunter Mystery series, where racquetball, romance, and unexpected danger collide! Maddie Cochere’s chick lit mysteries follow Susan Hunter, a spirited weight loss adviser by day and racquetball ace by night, who stumbles into adventures that keep readers hooked. With her sharp wit and knack for landing in the wrong place at the right time, Susan’s tales blend humor, suspense, and heart in a way that’s as refreshing as a Florida sunrise.
From sunny beaches to glitzy Las Vegas stages, this series delivers cozy mysteries with a modern twist. Perfect for fans of lighthearted whodunits, Susan’s escapades offer a delightful escape into a world where murder mysteries meet chick lit charm.
How Susan Hunter Mystery Began
Maddie Cochere, an Ohio-based author, launched the Susan Hunter Mystery series in 2012 with Sunshine Hunter. Drawing from her own experiences working for a weight loss company and playing racquetball in the 1980s, Cochere crafted Susan as a relatable yet adventurous heroine. Her background in writing training manuals and children’s books gave her the tools to spin engaging, accessible stories. Cochere’s love for humor and family dynamics—think whoopee cushions at gatherings—infuses the series with a playful, authentic vibe.
The Heart of Susan Hunter Mystery
The series spans seven books, each whisking Susan to vibrant settings. In Sunshine Hunter (2012), Susan flees to Florida after discovering her boyfriend’s betrayal, only to face a stalker and a murder back home. Sin City Hunter (2012) sees her in Las Vegas, where a magic show mishap lands her in a murder investigation. Big Easy Hunter (2012) takes her to New Orleans, blending wedding festivities with home break-in mysteries. Windy City Hunter (2013) dives into Chicago’s culinary scene, with Susan entangled in a murder at a cooking competition.
Themes of resilience, friendship, and romance weave through the series, grounded by Susan’s athletic lifestyle and quirky personality. The stories cross genres—chick lit, cozy mystery, and action—offering fast-paced plots with a humorous edge. Settings like Florida’s beaches, Chicago’s urban buzz, and New Orleans’ vibrant culture act as vivid backdrops, making each book a mini-vacation. While not traditional sleuth-driven mysteries, Susan’s knack for chaos delivers suspense with a side of laughter.
Why Susan Hunter Mystery Resonates
The Susan Hunter Mystery series has carved a niche among cozy mystery fans for its light, engaging style. Readers praise its clean, fun narratives, with reviews highlighting Cochere’s deft blend of humor and suspense. Though not a cultural juggernaut, the series’ relatable protagonist and escapist adventures appeal to those seeking a break from heavier reads. Its crossover with Cochere’s Two Sisters and a Journalist series adds depth for dedicated fans, creating a shared universe of sassy, mystery-solving women.
The series’ lasting charm lies in its accessibility. Susan’s imperfections—her clumsiness, her love for fashion—make her a heroine readers root for, while the quick reads suit busy lives. For a niche series, its loyal following speaks to its ability to entertain and uplift.
- Publication Years: 2012–2015
- Number of Books: 7
- Genres: Chick lit, cozy mystery, romance, humor
- Setting: Various U.S. cities and Canada
Grab Sunshine Hunter and dive into the Susan Hunter Mystery series’ world of laughter, danger, and heart-pounding fun!