Below is the complete list of Ellery Adams’ Charmed Pie Shoppe Mysteries books in publication order. For this series, the chronological reading order is the same as the order of publication.
A Charmed Pie Shoppe Mystery Books in Publication Order
- Pies and Prejudice (2012)
- Peach Pies and Alibis (2013)
- Pecan Pies and Homicides (2014)
- Lemon Pies and Little White Lies (2015)
- Breach of Crust (2016)
About Charmed Pie Shoppe Mysteries
Ellery Adams’ Charmed Pie Shoppe Mysteries series blends cozy mystery storytelling with a touch of magical realism, all set in the charming small-town atmosphere of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains. At the center of the series is Ella Mae LeFaye, the owner of a beloved pie shop who possesses a secret gift inherited through generations of her family. Her ability to subtly influence emotions through baking—sometimes called “pie magic”—gives the series its unique charm while anchoring the stories in traditional cozy mystery structure.
Ella Mae returns to her hometown of Havenwood after her life in New York City falls apart. Seeking a fresh start, she takes over the family pie shop, known locally as the Charmed Pie Shoppe. Havenwood is a picturesque small town where neighbors know each other well, and community events often revolve around food, festivals, and local traditions. However, beneath the peaceful surface of the town, secrets occasionally emerge that lead to unexpected crimes.
Ella Mae’s pies are more than simple desserts. By carefully choosing ingredients and recipes, she can create pies that influence moods or encourage certain emotions. A pie might inspire courage, calm someone’s anger, or help mend a broken relationship. While the magic is subtle and never overwhelming, it adds an intriguing layer to the series as Ella Mae balances her gift with the responsibility that comes with it.
The series begins with Pies and Prejudice (2012). Shortly after returning to Havenwood and reopening the Charmed Pie Shoppe, Ella Mae becomes involved in a local scandal when a controversial developer arrives with plans that could drastically change the town. When the developer is found murdered, suspicion quickly spreads through the community. Because of her connection to several people involved in the dispute, Ella Mae finds herself drawn into the investigation.
As she tries to uncover the truth, Ella Mae relies on both her intuition and the support of friends who help her navigate the mystery. Among them are Loralyn Gaynor, her close friend and business partner, and Sheriff Don Richman, the local law enforcement officer who often finds himself both appreciative of and frustrated by Ella Mae’s tendency to investigate crimes on her own.
The second book, Pecan Pies and Homicides (2013), deepens the connections within the community of Havenwood. A holiday festival sets the stage for another mystery when a local resident dies under suspicious circumstances. As Ella Mae searches for answers, the investigation reveals hidden rivalries and long-standing grudges among the town’s residents.
Subsequent novels continue exploring both the mysteries and the relationships within Havenwood. Titles such as Apple Pies and Alibis (2013), Lemon Pies and Little White Lies (2014), and Chocolate Pies and Murder (2014) maintain the series’ familiar structure: a crime disrupts the peaceful town, and Ella Mae works alongside her friends to uncover the truth before more trouble unfolds.
One of the series’ strengths is its focus on community. Havenwood itself becomes an important character, filled with colorful residents whose lives intersect in both humorous and dramatic ways. Ellery Adams emphasizes the importance of friendship, family ties, and shared traditions, giving the stories a warm and welcoming atmosphere even as the mysteries grow more complicated.
Food also plays a central role in the series. The descriptions of pies and baking create a cozy, comforting tone, and many editions of the books include recipes inspired by the desserts mentioned in the story. These culinary elements reinforce the sense that the Charmed Pie Shoppe is a gathering place where people come together to share both meals and conversation.
Reading the Charmed Pie Shoppe Mysteries in publication order allows readers to follow Ella Mae’s gradual adjustment to life back in Havenwood. Over time, her friendships deepen, the town’s history becomes clearer, and the responsibilities that come with her magical baking gift evolve alongside the mysteries she helps solve.