Step into the globe-trotting, mystery-solving world of the Travel Writer Mystery series, where a witty travel writer named Jacob Smalls turns exotic vacations into thrilling whodunits! Crafted by Jeff Soloway, this delightful series blends cozy mystery vibes with armchair travel, set against stunning backdrops like Bolivia’s lush jungles and the Grand Canyon’s rugged cliffs. With humor, suspense, and a touch of environmental awareness, it’s perfect for readers craving adventure without leaving the couch.
Jacob Smalls, the series’ sardonic protagonist, isn’t your typical sleuth. He’s a freelance travel writer with a knack for landing in sticky situations, often lured by free trips and the faint hope of rekindling old flames. Through his self-deprecating lens, Soloway weaves tales that are as much about human nature and love as they are about cracking cases.
How Travel Writer Mystery Began
Jeff Soloway, a former editor and writer for Frommer’s travel guides, drew on his own adventures to create the Travel Writer Mystery series. His debut novel, The Travel Writer, published in 2014, introduced Jacob Smalls and earned Soloway the Robert L. Fish Memorial Award from the Mystery Writers of America. Inspired by his time working in Europe and his love for exotic locales, Soloway crafted a series that marries the allure of travel with the intrigue of cozy mysteries, offering readers a fresh take on the genre.
The Heart of Travel Writer Mystery
The series kicks off with The Travel Writer, where Jacob jets to a luxurious Bolivian resort to investigate a missing journalist, Hilary Pearson, at the behest of his ex-lover, Pilar Rojas. The lush Andes setting and Jacob’s bumbling yet clever sleuthing make it a captivating start. In The Last Descent (2016), Jacob tackles a murder at the Grand Canyon, uncovering a mob conspiracy while grappling with heartbreak over his ex-girlfriend Jewel Rider’s death. The Ex-President (2017) sees him probing a suspicious death on a cruise led by a controversial ex-politician, blending political satire with mystery.
Soloway’s books shine through their vivid settings, which double as characters—from Bolivia’s ancient Incan terraces to the Grand Canyon’s perilous trails. Themes of environmental impact, like the clash between tourism and nature in The Last Descent, add depth, while Jacob’s musings on love and human connection lend emotional weight. The series’ cozy mystery style, infused with light humor and sharp prose, makes it a quirky, accessible read for fans of both travel and suspense.
Why Travel Writer Mystery Resonates
The Travel Writer Mystery series stands out for its unique blend of travelogue and cozy mystery, appealing to readers who love exploring new cultures through a thrilling lens. Jacob Smalls, with his flawed yet relatable charm, has won fans for his witty narration and underdog spirit. Reviews praise Soloway’s ability to craft settings that feel alive, alongside mysteries that keep readers guessing. The series’ focus on tourism’s environmental toll also strikes a chord, reflecting real-world concerns about preserving natural wonders.
Though not a blockbuster, the series has carved a niche among cozy mystery enthusiasts, with fans on Goodreads calling it “fun” and “thought-provoking.” Its lasting appeal lies in its ability to transport readers to far-flung destinations while delivering satisfying, light-hearted mysteries.
- Publication Years: 2014–2017
- Number of Books: 3
- Award: Robert L. Fish Memorial Award (2014)
Grab The Travel Writer and dive into Jacob Smalls’ world of mystery, humor, and exotic adventures!