Step into the charming yet thrilling world of Martha’s Vineyard, where a 92-year-old poet and deputy police officer named Victoria Trumbull solves crimes with wit sharper than a sea breeze! Cynthia Riggs’ Martha’s Vineyard Mysteries series blends cozy mystery vibes with the rich tapestry of island life, offering readers a delightful escape starring an indomitable nonagenarian who proves age is just a number when it comes to catching culprits.
With Victoria at the helm, this series delivers heartwarming tales of community, clever sleuthing, and the natural beauty of Martha’s Vineyard, making it a must-read for fans of cozy mysteries and strong, unconventional heroines.
How Victoria Trumbull Began
The Martha’s Vineyard Mysteries sprang from the vivid imagination of Cynthia Riggs, a 13th-generation Islander with a deep love for her home. Inspired by her mother, Dionis Coffin Riggs, a poet who lived to 98 and remained active until her final days, Riggs crafted Victoria Trumbull as a fiercely independent, razor-sharp sleuth. Launched in 2001 with Deadly Nightshade, the series reflects Riggs’ intimate knowledge of the island’s history, flora, and quirky locals, weaving them into mysteries that feel as authentic as a Vineyard sunset.
The Heart of Victoria Trumbull
The series, spanning 14 books, follows Victoria as she tackles crimes with her encyclopedic knowledge of Martha’s Vineyard and a knack for noticing the smallest details. In Deadly Nightshade (2001), Victoria uncovers a murder after hearing a scream by the harbor, setting the tone for her fearless investigations. The Cranefly Orchid Murders (2002) sees her protecting endangered plants and stumbling upon a corpse, blending environmental themes with suspense. The Cemetery Yew (2003) has her probing odd gravestone antics, while Widow’s Wreath (2018) involves a deadly wedding reception at her home.
Riggs’ stories are steeped in the island’s charm, from windswept cliffs to cozy village lanes, with each book named after a local plant, like Poison Ivy or Touch-Me-Not. Themes of resilience, community, and the power of observation shine through, elevated by Victoria’s spunky spirit and realistic portrayal as a nonagenarian who walks with a stick but never misses a clue. The cozy mystery style—light on gore, heavy on character—makes these tales perfect for readers craving intrigue with a side of heart.
Why Victoria Trumbull Resonates
Victoria Trumbull’s appeal lies in her defiance of stereotypes about aging. As a 92-year-old heroine, she challenges the notion that adventure is for the young, inspiring readers with her vigor and intellect. The series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, earning praise for its vivid setting and authentic characters. Fans adore Riggs’ ability to capture Martha’s Vineyard’s soul, from its eccentric locals to its natural splendor, making each book a love letter to the island.
With reviews lauding Victoria’s charm and Riggs’ storytelling, the series has built a loyal following, proving that a small-town sleuth can make a big impact. Its blend of humor, heart, and mystery continues to draw readers eager for a fresh take on the genre.
- First Book: Deadly Nightshade (2001)
- Total Books: 14 (as of 2018)
- Setting: Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
- Genre: Cozy Mystery
Ready to meet a sleuth who’s as spry as she is wise? Grab Deadly Nightshade and dive into Victoria Trumbull’s enchanting world of Martha’s Vineyard mysteries!