How to Read Christine DeSmet's Books
If you love small-town charm, lighthearted humor, recipes you can actually make, and a touch of romance mixed with mystery, Christine DeSmet is an author you should check out. Based in Wisconsin, DeSmet writes cozy mysteries that feel like a warm hug, featuring rich local settings, tight-knit communities, and engaging amateur sleuths.
To get the most out of her work, we recommend dividing your reading path by her two main series, plus her standalone romantic suspense novel. Because character relationships and town dynamics evolve over time, it is highly recommended to read each series in order of publication.
The Fudge Shop Mystery Series
Set in the picturesque peninsula of Door County, Wisconsin—often referred to as the "Cape Cod of the Midwest"—the Fudge Shop Mystery series is DeSmet's signature cozy collection. The story revolves around Ava Oosterling, a talented confectioner who runs a fudge shop in the town of Fishers' Harbor. Ava has a knack for creating mouthwatering fudge flavors, but she also has a habit of stumbling into crime scenes.
The series combines amateur sleuthing, diamond smuggling, Belgian-American culture, and a slow-burn romance. Plus, each book includes original fudge recipes that readers can try at home. Here is the recommended reading order by publication date:
- First-Degree Fudge (2013) – Ava’s signature "Cinderella Pink Fudge" is found next to a body, plunging her into a murder investigation with ties to diamond smuggling.
- Hot Fudge Frame-Up (2014) – A historic festival takes a dark turn when a local historian is murdered, and Ava must clear her family's name.
- Five-Alarm Fudge (2015) – When a local fire house and community politics heat up, a killer uses a historic fire to hide a crime, forcing Ava to track down a murderer.
- Deadly Fudge Divas (2020) – A confectionery competition turns cutthroat when a judge dies, placing Ava right in the crosshairs of the murder investigation.
- Undercover Fudge (2021) – Ava goes undercover at the Blue Heron Inn to prevent a band of thieves from ruining her best friend's wedding.
- Holly Jolly Fudge Folly (2023) – A winter snowfall reveals the body of a tax assessor, and Ava must clear her grandfather's name before the holidays are ruined.
The Mischief in Moonstone Series
The Mischief in Moonstone series shifts focus to the shores of Lake Superior in northern Wisconsin. These novellas are quick, lighthearted, and blend romantic suspense with small-town mystery. While the stories are written to be read as standalones, they share a recurring cast of quirky locals, holiday celebrations, and a distinct love for "Silkie" chickens.
The suggested reading order for these novellas follows their publication:
- When Rudolph Was Kidnapped (2016) – First-grade teacher Crystal Hagan has to track down a stolen reindeer with the help of a local deputy.
- Misbehavin' in Moonstone (2017) – A hilarious dispute over a topless touring boat brings chef Kirsten Peplinski and local authorities into conflict.
- Mrs. Claus and the Moonstone Murder (2017) – County deputy Lily Schuster investigates the murder of a pie contest judge during the winter festivities.
- When the Dead People Brought a Dish-to-Pass (2018) – A mystery involving local ghost stories, town history, and a potluck gathering.
- A Moonstone Wedding (2021) – A festive romance and mystery centered around a high-profile small-town wedding.
- The Moonstone Fire (2024) – Deputy John "Bozeman" Hall investigates a suspicious fire threatening the local community.
- All She Wore Was a Bow (2025) – A holiday-themed romance featuring a wedding planner, a bull rider, and a new layer of small-town gossip.
Standalone Novels and Anthology Contributions
Beyond her primary cozy series, Christine DeSmet has written standalone romantic suspense and contributed to various short story collections. If you want to see a slightly different side of her writing, look for these titles:
- Spirit Lake (2000) – An award-winning romantic suspense novel set in a woodland hideaway in northern Wisconsin. The story follows wildlife rescuer Laurel Hastings as she confronts her past when her ex-boyfriend Cole Wescott returns, wounded and on the run from a killer.
- Shadows in the Heart (2007) – A romance anthology featuring a short story by DeSmet alongside other writers.
- Tales from the Treasure Trove (Volumes III and IV) (2007–2008) – Anthologies published by the Jewels of the Quill writer's group, featuring early short stories that helped lay the groundwork for her later cozy mysteries.
What to Know Before You Start
Christine DeSmet’s books are celebrated for their vivid Midwestern settings. As an educator and writing coach at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, DeSmet infuses her stories with structural precision and playful, engaging prose. The Fudge Shop mysteries are classic cozies, meaning they feature minimal graphic violence and a strong emphasis on community, humor, and puzzles. If you enjoy cozy mysteries with a strong culinary theme, start directly with First-Degree Fudge. If you prefer shorter, faster-paced romantic comedies with a mystery subplot, the Mischief in Moonstone novellas are a perfect weekend read.