If there’s one thing I can’t resist, it’s curling up with a cozy mystery book—especially one filled with small-town charm, quirky characters, and, of course, a puzzling murder! I’ve always loved cozy mystery series, and my shelves are filled with favorites like Joanne Fluke’s Hannah Swensen Mysteries. But lately, I’ve been completely hooked on a new series: The Cider Shop Mysteries by Julie Anne Lindsay.
This series checks all the cozy mystery must-haves:
✔️ A charming small-town setting
✔️ A strong female protagonist
✔️ A family business full of heart
✔️ A cast of lovable (and suspicious) locals
✔️ A murder (or two) to keep things interesting
✔️ A little romance and plenty of humor
✔️ Bonus: Delicious apple cider recipes included!
If you love cozy books as much as I do, let me introduce you to my new obsession.
🍏 Book 1: Apple Cider Slaying
The first book in the Cider Shop Mysteries introduces us to Winona “Winnie” Montgomery and her Granny Smythe, who run a struggling apple orchard in the heart of Blossom Valley, West Virginia. In an effort to save their family farm, they host the First Annual Christmas at the Orchard Festival—but their plans take a sinister turn when Granny’s long-time rival, Nadine Cooper, turns up dead in the apple press!
With Granny as the prime suspect, Winnie takes matters into her own hands to uncover the truth before another murder spoils their cider season.
✨ Why I Loved It:
- Winnie is a smart, determined heroine with a great sense of humor.
- The orchard setting is beyond charming—I could practically smell the cider and feel the crisp autumn air.
- The mystery kept me guessing with plenty of suspects and red herrings.
- Did I mention there are apple cider recipes included?!
📚 Perfect for Fans Of:
- Joanne Fluke’s Hannah Swensen Mysteries
- Ellie Alexander’s Bakeshop Mysteries
- Amanda Flower’s Amish Candy Shop Mysteries
🍎 Book 2: Pulp Friction
With the cider shop thriving, Winnie and Granny are finally seeing some success—until murder rears its ugly head again. At a beautiful June wedding held in their orchard, Winnie’s ex-boyfriend Hank gets into an argument with the groom. Later, the groom is found dead, and Hank becomes the prime suspect. To clear his name, Winnie must sift through the clues and catch the real killer before more than just apples get crushed.
✨ Why I Loved It:
- A fresh new mystery with just as many twists and turns.
- Winnie’s relationships (both friendships and romance!) grow in this book.
- The orchard and cider shop continue to be the perfect cozy backdrop.
- The tension and humor balance beautifully—classic cozy mystery series charm!
🍂 Book 3: The Cider Shop Rules
Autumn has arrived in Blossom Valley, bringing pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and Civil War reenactors to the town’s annual Fall Festival. Everything seems to be going great—until Jacob Potter, the beloved pumpkin farmer, is found dead in Winnie’s truck! Now, Winnie is the main suspect, and she has to prove her innocence before the killer strikes again.
✨ Why I Loved It:
- The fall festival setting makes this book feel extra cozy!
- A fast-paced mystery that kept me flipping pages.
- Winnie proves once again that she’s a fantastic amateur sleuth.
- The suspense and small-town drama are on point!
Why You Should Read the Cider Shop Mysteries
If you love cozy mysteries with a mix of humor, heart, and small-town charm, the Cider Shop Mysteries are a must-read. The characters are warm and relatable, the setting is picture-perfect, and the mysteries are filled with plenty of twists to keep you guessing.
Plus, if you love books that include delicious recipes, this series delivers with apple cider-inspired treats you’ll want to try for yourself!
What’s Next?
I’m currently on the hunt for more cozy mystery books to add to my TBR list! Have you read the Cider Shop Mysteries? What are your favorite mystery novels? Drop your recommendations in the comments—I’d love to hear what you’re reading! 📚✨
