Step into the sun-drenched streets of Aix-en-Provence, where the Verlaque and Bonnet Mystery series by M.L. Longworth weaves intricate whodunits with the irresistible charm of southern France. This cozy mystery series follows Antoine Verlaque, the charismatic chief magistrate, and Marine Bonnet, a sharp law professor, as they unravel murders amidst Provençal culture, fine wines, and delectable cuisine. Perfect for fans of Donna Leon or armchair travelers craving a French escape, these novels are as addictive as a warm croissant!
With a blend of romance, crime, and vivid settings, the series captures the heart of Provence while keeping readers guessing. Let’s explore how this delightful series came to be, its captivating stories, and why it’s a must-read for mystery lovers.
How Verlaque and Bonnet Mystery Began
Canadian author M.L. Longworth, who moved to Aix-en-Provence in 1997, drew inspiration from her deep love for the region’s history, food, and culture. After years of writing nonfiction for publications like Bon Appétit, Longworth turned to fiction to bring Provence to life through the eyes of her sleuthing duo. Her debut novel, Death at the Chateau Bremont, published in 2011 by Penguin Books, introduced Verlaque and Bonnet, launching a series that now spans ten books. Longworth’s intimate knowledge of Aix, where she still resides, infuses each story with authenticity, making the town a character in its own right.
The Heart of Verlaque and Bonnet Mystery
The series kicks off with Death at the Chateau Bremont, where Verlaque suspects foul play in the death of nobleman Étienne de Bremont, enlisting his on-again, off-again girlfriend Marine Bonnet to dig deeper. In Murder in the Rue Dumas, the duo tackles the murder of a theology professor over a coveted university fellowship, unraveling academic rivalries. Death in the Vines sees them investigating stolen rare wines and a missing woman found dead in a vineyard, while The Mystery of the Lost Cézanne blends art history with a murder tied to a possible Cézanne painting.
Longworth’s novels are steeped in themes of community, culture, and the complexities of relationships. The mysteries are intricate yet accessible, with clues woven into the fabric of Provençal life—think bustling markets, historic chateaux, and cozy bistros. The evolving romance between Verlaque and Bonnet adds emotional depth, while the lush descriptions of Aix’s landscapes, cuisine, and wines make every page a sensory delight. Fans praise Longworth’s ability to balance plot-driven suspense with character-driven storytelling, creating a cozy yet sophisticated vibe.
Why Verlaque and Bonnet Mystery Resonates
The Verlaque and Bonnet Mystery series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, enchanting readers with its immersive portrayal of Provence. Its appeal lies in its ability to transport readers to a world of sunlit vineyards and cobblestone streets while delivering satisfying puzzles. The series’ adaptation into the 2022 BritBox show Murder in Provence, starring Roger Allam and Nancy Carroll, introduced it to a wider audience, though fans often prefer the books’ richer detail. Longworth’s nuanced characters and her knack for capturing French culture keep readers returning, with each novel feeling like a mini-vacation.
The series also resonates for its universal themes—love, betrayal, and the search for truth—set against a backdrop that feels both exotic and familiar. Its growing fanbase, evident in glowing Goodreads reviews, proves its lasting charm, especially for those who crave mysteries with heart and atmosphere.
- First Book: Death at the Chateau Bremont (2011)
- Total Books: 10 (as of 2022)
- Setting: Aix-en-Provence, France
- Genre: Cozy Mystery
Grab Death at the Chateau Bremont and dive into the Verlaque and Bonnet Mystery series’ world of Provençal charm and clever crime-solving. Your next literary adventure awaits!