Step into the sizzling world of the Sweet Pepper Fire Brigade Mysteries, where fiery peppers, ghostly allies, and small-town secrets create a cozy mystery recipe you won’t resist! Set in the charming town of Sweet Pepper, Tennessee, this delightful series by J.J. Cook follows Chicago firefighter Stella Griffin as she trades city life for the Smoky Mountains, only to find herself solving crimes with a spectral twist.
Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Sweet Pepper is famous for its Tennessee Teardrop peppers—both the hottest and sweetest around. But it’s the town’s mysteries, from arson to murder, that keep Stella on her toes, with help from the ghost of former fire chief Eric Gamlyn. Blending cozy mystery with a dash of paranormal flair, this series is perfect for readers craving heartwarming intrigue.
How Sweet Pepper Fire Brigade Mysteries Began
J.J. Cook, the pseudonym for husband-and-wife duo Joyce and Jim Lavene, crafted the Sweet Pepper Fire Brigade Mysteries to bring cozy mystery fans a fresh setting and a bold heroine. Launched in 2013, the series was inspired by the Lavenes’ love for Southern culture and their knack for weaving paranormal elements into grounded stories. Their extensive experience—over 60 novels across multiple genres—shaped a series that’s both accessible and delightfully unique, rooted in the vibrant community of Sweet Pepper.
The Heart of Sweet Pepper Fire Brigade Mysteries
The series kicks off with That Old Flame of Mine (2013), where Stella arrives in Sweet Pepper to lead the volunteer fire brigade. When her friend Tory Lambert dies in a suspicious fire, Stella teams up with Eric’s ghost to uncover arson and murder, sparking her journey as an amateur sleuth. Playing with Fire (2014) deepens the stakes as Stella investigates Eric’s own mysterious death, juggling her Chicago past and new clues from a retired deputy. In Hot Water (2015) delivers explosive action with a deadly house fire and a shady investigation, while Sweet Pepper Hero (2016) sees Stella tackling a moonshine distillery blaze amid old rivalries.
Themes of community, resilience, and uncovering hidden truths shine through, set against Sweet Pepper’s picturesque yet secretive backdrop. The series’ cozy mystery style—think quirky characters, light romance, and pepper-inspired recipes—pairs with supernatural elements, making it stand out. Stella’s bond with Eric, a ghostly mentor with a knack for cooking, adds humor and heart, while the Smoky Mountains provide a vivid, atmospheric stage for each twisty plot.
Why Sweet Pepper Fire Brigade Mysteries Resonates
The Sweet Pepper Fire Brigade Mysteries have carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, earning praise for their engaging plots and lovable cast. Fans on Goodreads rave about the series’ fast-paced action and the charm of Sweet Pepper, with many calling it a “sizzling” escape. The Lavenes’ ability to balance mystery, humor, and paranormal intrigue keeps readers hooked, while Stella’s journey from outsider to town hero resonates with those who love stories of belonging. Though the series ended in 2016, its blend of Southern warmth and ghostly chills continues to attract new readers.
- Publication Span: 2013–2016
- Number of Books: 4, plus a novella (Hero’s Journey)
- Setting: Sweet Pepper, Tennessee
- Authors: J.J. Cook (Joyce and Jim Lavene)
Ready to spice up your reading list? Grab That Old Flame of Mine and dive into the Sweet Pepper Fire Brigade Mysteries’ world of cozy thrills and ghostly charm!