Step into the quirky, sun-soaked world of the Worst Detective Ever series, where Hollywood glamour meets small-town sleuthing! Written by Christy Barritt, this cozy mystery series follows Joey Darling, a former TV actress who played detective Raven Remington on the hit show Relentless. When her life unravels, Joey retreats to the Outer Banks of North Carolina, only to stumble into real-life mysteries that test her bumbling investigative skills. With humor, romance, and a dash of danger, this series is a delightful escape for fans of lighthearted whodunits.
Joey’s knack for landing in trouble, paired with her witty banter and relatable flaws, makes her an irresistible heroine. Whether she’s clashing with the no-nonsense Detective Jackson Sullivan or sparking chemistry with her thrill-seeking neighbor Zane Oakley, every page brims with charm. Ready to unravel the magic of this underrated gem? Let’s dive in!
How Worst Detective Ever Began
Christy Barritt, a USA Today bestselling author known for her clean, faith-infused mysteries, launched the Worst Detective Ever series in 2017 with Ready to Fumble. Inspired by her love for quirky characters and coastal settings, Barritt crafted Joey Darling as a fish-out-of-water heroine—a celebrity trying to escape fame while embracing her inner sleuth. The Outer Banks, with its sandy beaches and tight-knit community, became the perfect backdrop for Joey’s misadventures. Bar=20
Barritt’s own klutzy personality and passion for storytelling shine through in Joey’s comedic mishaps and heartfelt journey, making the series a fan favorite. With over three million books sold and awards like the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense, Barritt’s creative spark has cemented her as a cozy mystery powerhouse.
The Heart of Worst Detective Ever
The series kicks off with Ready to Fumble, where Joey, reeling from a failed marriage and a missing father, takes a job at her Aunt Dizzy’s salon. When a client mistakes her for a real detective, Joey’s drawn into a murder mystery echoing her TV show. Reign of Error ups the stakes as Joey’s framed for murder, forcing her to outwit a killer. Safety in Blunders finds her chasing fame-hungry predators, while Wreck the Halls, a festive novella, delivers holiday-themed chaos with a dead Santa. Each book blends fast-paced plots with laugh-out-loud moments.
Themes of resilience, faith, and self-discovery weave through the series, grounded by the Outer Banks’ vibrant setting—think salty breezes, beachside cafes, and quirky locals. Joey’s growth from a self-doubting star to a confident sleuth, alongside her tangled love triangle with Jackson and Zane, keeps readers hooked. Barritt’s clean, faith-based storytelling adds heart, making the series a cozy haven for readers seeking humor and hope.
Why Worst Detective Ever Resonates
The Worst Detective Ever series shines in the cozy mystery genre for its fresh take on a reluctant detective. Fans rave about Joey’s relatability and Barritt’s knack for blending suspense with humor, earning high ratings on Goodreads and Amazon. Its standalone mysteries make it easy to jump in, while the ongoing search for Joey’s father adds depth. The series’ charm lies in its celebration of imperfection—Joey’s flaws make her a hero readers root for.
With 12 books and counting, the series has built a loyal following, inspiring audiobook adaptations and calls for a TV adaptation. Its blend of small-town vibes and Hollywood flair offers a unique niche, perfect for readers craving light, uplifting reads. Barritt’s storytelling continues to captivate, proving that even the worst detective can leave a lasting mark.
- First Book Published: 2017 (Ready to Fumble)
- Number of Books: 12
- Genre: Cozy Mystery, Christian Fiction
- Setting: Outer Banks, North Carolina
Grab Ready to Fumble and dive into the Worst Detective Ever’s hilarious, heartwarming world. Whether you’re a cozy mystery fan or just love a good laugh, Joey Darling’s adventures are sure to steal your heart!