Step into the spellbinding world of the Witch City Mystery series, where cozy mysteries intertwine with a touch of magic in the historic streets of Salem, Massachusetts! Crafted by Salem-born author Carol J. Perry, this delightful series follows Lee Barrett, a reluctant psychic turned amateur sleuth, as she unravels murders with a paranormal twist. Perfect for fans of cozy mysteries with a witchy vibe, these books offer a charming blend of suspense, history, and supernatural flair.
With its vivid Salem setting—steeped in the lore of the 1692 witch trials—and a cast of colorful characters like the clairvoyant cat O’Ryan, the Witch City Mystery series invites readers to solve crimes in a town where the past is never truly buried. Whether you’re a mystery lover or a Halloween enthusiast, this series promises a thrilling escape!
How Witch City Mystery Began
Born on Halloween Eve in Salem, Massachusetts, Carol J. Perry was destined to weave tales of her hometown’s mystique. Inspired by Salem’s rich history and her own childhood there, Perry launched the Witch City Mystery series in 2014 with Caught Dead Handed. Her goal was to pay homage to Salem, blending its witchy reputation with cozy mystery charm. Perry’s background as a travel writer and young adult novelist infused the series with vivid settings and relatable characters, making it a hit among cozy mystery fans.
The Heart of Witch City Mystery
The series kicks off with Caught Dead Handed, where Lee Barrett returns to Salem after her husband’s death, hoping to land a reporting job at WICH-TV. Instead, she’s thrust into the role of a call-in psychic after the previous host is murdered. When Lee starts seeing visions in an obsidian ball, she wonders if she’s truly psychic—and must solve the crime to save her career. In Tails, You Lose, Lee volunteers at a local arts academy, only to uncover a murder tied to the building’s past as a department store. Grave Errors sees Lee’s TV class exploring Dia de Los Muertos, leading to chilling graveyard discoveries. The latest, Death Scene (2024), involves a Hollywood film crew in Salem, where a poisoned actress sparks a real-life mystery.
The Witch City Mystery series shines through its blend of cozy mystery staples—small-town charm, amateur sleuthing, and quirky sidekicks—with paranormal elements like Lee’s scrying abilities and O’Ryan’s uncanny instincts. Themes of family, resilience, and uncovering hidden truths resonate throughout, set against Salem’s atmospheric backdrop. Perry’s light, engaging style keeps readers hooked, with plots that balance suspense and humor while celebrating Salem’s history and Halloween spirit.
Why Witch City Mystery Resonates
The Witch City Mystery series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, enchanting readers with its unique blend of witchcraft and whodunits. Fans praise Perry’s ability to make Salem a living, breathing character, from its cobblestone streets to its haunted happenings. The series’ longevity—14 books and counting—reflects its devoted following, with readers on Goodreads and Amazon calling it “witchy fun” and “perfect for a spooky autumn read.” Its impact lies in offering a cozy yet thrilling escape, appealing to those who love mysteries with a magical twist.
- First Book Published: September 2014 (Caught Dead Handed)
- Total Books: 14 as of 2024
- Setting: Salem, Massachusetts
- Key Character: Lee Barrett, a scryer and amateur sleuth
Grab Caught Dead Handed and dive into the Witch City Mystery series’ enchanting world of cozy mysteries and paranormal thrills!