The Booktown Series in Order

About the Booktown series

Series Premise

The series follows Tricia Miles, a former corporate professional who, after a divorce, moves to the small New Hampshire town of Stoneham to open her dream business: Haven't Got a Clue, a cozy mystery bookstore specializing in rare, out-of-print, and new titles. Stoneham has reinvented itself as "Booktown," a tourist destination lined with independent bookstores, attracting bibliophiles and generating economic revival.

Shortly after Tricia's arrival, she discovers a murdered bookstore owner, becoming the prime suspect. To clear her name, she begins investigating, uncovering motives tied to jealousy, rare books, hidden secrets, or business rivalries. This pattern repeats: each book introduces a new murder (often in or around the bookstore community), and Tricia—sharp, observant, and a mystery fan herself—finds herself drawn into solving it, despite warnings from law enforcement.

The premise combines cozy mystery tropes (amateur sleuth, small-town gossip, recurring suspects) with a bookish twist: crimes often involve rare editions, signed copies, or literary feuds. Subplots explore Tricia's adjustment to small-town life, her strained relationship with her older sister Angelica, her growing friendships, and the challenges of running an independent bookstore amid tourism and competition. The series celebrates the joy of reading, community spirit, and resilience while delivering satisfying whodunits.

Main Characters

Tricia Miles: The protagonist and amateur sleuth—a smart, independent woman in her thirties who owns Haven't Got a Clue. Practical, book-loving, and observant, she uses her mystery knowledge to solve crimes. After a divorce and big-city life, she adapts to small-town living, growing more confident and connected over the series.



- Miss Marple: Tricia's gray cat—a scene-stealer who often "helps" investigations by knocking over clues or providing comfort. Named after Agatha Christie's sleuth, she's a fan favorite.



- Angelica Miles: Tricia's older sister—outgoing, dramatic, and entrepreneurial. Initially a short-term visitor, she stays to open The Cookery (cookbook store) and later Booked for Lunch (cafe). Their sibling dynamic—love mixed with exasperation—adds warmth and humor.



- Ginny Wilson: Tricia's loyal employee at Haven't Got a Clue—cheerful, hardworking, and a good friend who assists in investigations.



- Chief Grant Baker: The local police chief—attractive, competent, and often at odds with Tricia's meddling, though tension hints at romance.

Setting

The primary setting is Stoneham, New Hampshire—a fictional small town transformed into "Booktown," a tourist haven lined with independent bookstores. Inspired by real book towns, Stoneham features quaint streets, historic buildings, a charming downtown with shops, a diner, a library, and seasonal events (festivals, author signings, holiday celebrations).



Tricia's bookstore, Haven't Got a Clue, is central: a cozy space with shelves of mysteries, comfy chairs, and a resident cat. Investigations span the town—other bookstores, homes, parks, nearby woods, or the library—creating a contained, atmospheric stage for crimes. The New England setting adds charm: autumn leaves, snowy winters, spring blooms, and summer tourists. Stoneham feels lived-in and welcoming, with a strong sense of community where gossip travels fast and neighbors help (or hinder) Tricia's sleuthing.

Tone & Themes

The tone is cozy, light-hearted, and engaging—classic cozy mystery with warmth, gentle humor, and low-stakes suspense. Barrett keeps violence off-page or minimal, focusing on puzzle-solving, character interactions, and the pleasures of books and small-town life rather than graphic details. Murders happen, but the emphasis is on motive, clues, and clever reveals rather than horror.

Humor comes from Tricia's wry observations, quirky town characters, and her cat Miss Marple's antics. Emotional moments (grief, family tension, romantic uncertainty) are handled with sensitivity and optimism. The books feel comforting and optimistic—justice prevails, friendships strengthen, and Tricia grows more confident. It's feel-good escapism with intellectual appeal: perfect for curling up with a cup of tea and a good mystery.

The Booktown Mystery series by Lorna Barrett is a delightful, book-loving cozy series that turns a charming New Hampshire town into a haven for mysteries and community. Through Tricia Miles' sharp sleuthing, supportive friendships, and the cozy world of Haven't Got a Clue, the books celebrate reading, small-town life, and the satisfaction of solving puzzles. With 20 entries full of clever clues, gentle humor, and satisfying resolutions, the series offers comforting escapism where murders are solved, friendships endure, and books bring joy. Whether Tricia is unraveling a rare-book theft or navigating sisterly bonds, the stories remind us that curiosity, kindness, and a good mystery can brighten any day. If you're seeking cozy whodunits with heart, literary charm, and a cat sidekick, Booktown delivers page-turning comfort and endless reread value.