Cozy Case Files, Volume 24: A Cozy Minotaur Sampler

by Donna Andrews, Carolyn Haines, Katharine Schellman

Looking for a new cozy series? In the new edition of Cozy Case Files, Minotaur Books compiles the beginnings of five charming cozy mysteries publishing in Spring/Summer 2025 for free and easy sampling.

The twenty-fourth edition of Cozy Case Files features cozies from the following Elizabeth Penney, Korina Moss, Donna Andrews, Carolyn Haines, and Katharine Schellman.

Uncover a skeleton with a bullet still in tact in For Duck's Sake. Investigate a dognapper before it's too late in Doggone Bones. Return to the luscious and mysterious Nightingale series and solve a cold case in Last Dance Before Dawn. Solve a chocolatey murder in Bait and Swiss. Capture a murderer at a picturesque bed and breakfast in Bodies and Battlements.

162 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 6, 2025

About the author

Donna Andrews was born in Yorktown, Virginia, the setting of Murder with Peacocks and Revenge of the Wrought Iron Flamingos, and now lives and works in Reston, Virginia. When not writing fiction, Andrews is a self-confessed nerd, rarely found away from her computer, unless she's messing in the garden

http://us.macmillan.com/author/donnaa...

Reviews

[Sarah Jensen]

Book Review: Cozy Case Files, Volume 24 (A Cozy Minotaur Sampler)

A Delightful Buffet of Cozy Mysteries

Cozy Case Files, Volume 24 is a charming anthology that serves as a perfect introduction to some of the genre’s most beloved authors, including Donna Andrews, Carolyn Haines, Katharine Schellman, Korina Moss, and Elizabeth Penney. This sampler offers a taste of nine distinct cozy mysteries, each brimming with small-town charm, quirky characters, and clever whodunits. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the genre, this collection is like a literary tea party—varied, satisfying, and utterly delightful.

Highlights of the Collection
-Diverse Settings & Tropes: From bookshops (Elizabeth Penney’s atmospheric opener) to cheese shops (Korina Moss’s Bait and Swiss series) and Southern Gothic flair (Carolyn Haines), the settings are as rich as the mysteries.
-Strong Protagonists: Each snippet introduces memorable sleuths—amateur detectives, bookstore owners, and even a skeleton with a bullet still intact (For Duck’s Sake).
-Pacing & Tone: True to the cozy genre, the stories balance lightheartedness with suspense, avoiding graphic violence while delivering satisfying puzzles.

Standout Stories
-Donna Andrews’ Contribution: Known for her Meg Langslow series, Andrews delivers her signature wit and family-driven chaos.
-Katharine Schellman’s Entry: A historical cozy with a sharp, feminist edge.
-Korina Moss’s Bait and Swiss: A cheesy (in the best way) mystery that’s as warm as fondue.

Score Breakdown (Out of 5)
Variety & Curation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – A well-rounded sampler, though some stories shine brighter.
Hook Factor: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Effectively leaves you craving full novels.
Cozy Atmosphere: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Perfectly captures the genre’s comforting vibe.
Character Appeal: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Protagonists are instantly engaging.
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – A must-try for cozy mystery enthusiasts.

Ideal Reader:
-Fans of light, character-driven mysteries.
-Readers seeking new series to binge.
-Anyone who loves small-town quirks and clever sleuthing.

Gratitude:
Thank you to NetGalley and the contributing authors (Donna Andrews, Carolyn Haines, Katharine Schellman, Korina Moss, and Elizabeth Penney) for the advance review copy. This anthology is a treasure trove of escapism—proof that coziness and intrigue are a match made in literary heaven.

Final Assessment:
Cozy Case Files, Volume 24 is a polished, playful collection that showcases the genre’s best. While not every story will resonate equally, the sampler succeeds in its mission: to lure readers into new worlds, one charming mystery at a time. Packed with humor, heart, and just enough suspense, it’s a perfect palate cleanser between heavier reads.

[Stacey E.]

This was my first time reading a Cozy Case Files Sampler, and I really appreciated the variety it offered. It’s a great way to explore different cozy mystery authors and series before committing to a full book.

Book 1 was a pleasant surprise. It felt like a quick, easy read with short chapters that kept the pace moving. I enjoyed it enough that I’d like to finish the full book and possibly dive deeper into the series.

Book 2 initially caught my attention because of the animal theme, which I love. However, I was a bit let down by the paranormal elements—it’s just not my usual taste.

Book 3 didn’t really grab me, and I found myself just not caring about the story or characters in general.

Thank you, NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Minator Books for the opportunity to read and review this advanced copy.

[Patricia Romero]

I just found all of my cozy authors in one place!

I look forward to these samplers. I have been fortunate enough to have read several on NG already and they are all really good.

Give this one a try and I know you will find a few new favorite authors.

NetGalley/ May 06, 2025 St. Martin's Press

[Tina]

This was a fun and quick (under 200 page) sampler that introduced me to some new authors in addition to sharing previews of new releases from familiar authors. I enjoyed the range of storylines and settings. I am most excited about the new "Ravensea Castle Series" by author Elizabeth Penney, which starts with Bodies and Battlements. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

[LeeAnn]

I adore cozy mysteries! And these are just the perfect bite-size treats! There's something here for every cozy fan (baking, ghosts, romance,

This is the perfect sampler to introduce readers to the genre - and to help seasoned fans meet someone new!