Intriguing Mystery Series

I read a wide variety of books, but mysteries are usually my go-to when nothing else is appealing to me. I do enjoy stand-alone mysteries, but I also enjoy a great series. There is something about the predictability of reading familiar characters in new situations that appeals to me. Here are some of my favorite mystery series:

Maisie Dobbs Series
by Jacqueline Winspear

This series is wonderful as each book builds upon the previous books. You really see Maisie’s character development when you read them all in order. These books are set in the years after World War I and explore facets of that time that I’ve never read about before.

Chief Inspector Armand Gamache Series
by Louise Penny

Canadian author Louise Penny’s books are incredible. The characters are vivid and memorable, and you see them grow and change throughout the series. These are not simple detective stories, but each one delves deeper into the communities in which the characters live and work. These books made me add Quebec to my travel bucket list!

Dandy Gilver Series
by Catriona McPherson

Scottish author Catriona McPherson offers a fun amateur detective in Dandy Gilver. I love the titles of the books in this series. These books can stand alone better than those in some series. I love the glimpses into Scottish life I get from reading these and I was disappointed when my local library didn’t carry the later installments in the series.

Flavia de Luce Series
by Alan Bradley

This is a series I frequently recommend. Young Flavia de Luce is a great narrator and amateur detective. She’s a budding chemist who excels at getting into trouble and solving mysteries. The series doesn’t start particularly strongly, but the books get better and better as the series continues. I also love the cover art!