If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries with a side of delicious recipes, Diane Mott Davidson’s Goldy Schulz series is a must-read. This bestselling American author has crafted a delightful blend of suspense, humor, and mouthwatering cuisine, centered around Goldy Schulz, a caterer-turned-amateur-sleuth in the charming town of Aspen Meadow, Colorado. Whether you’re new to the series or a longtime fan looking to revisit Goldy’s adventures, this guide provides the complete list of Diane Mott Davidson books in order, along with tips to dive into her culinary mystery world.
In this SEO-optimized blog post, we’ll cover the full Goldy Schulz series in publication order, highlight key themes, share why these books are so engaging, and offer tips for new readers. Plus, we’ll sprinkle in some fun facts about Diane Mott Davidson and her inspiration for this beloved series. Let’s get cooking!
Who Is Diane Mott Davidson?
Diane Mott Davidson is an American novelist born in 1949 in Honolulu, Hawaii, and raised in Charlottesville, Virginia. A graduate of Stanford University with a double major in Art History and Political Science, she later earned a master’s degree in Art History from Johns Hopkins. Her passion for storytelling was sparked early by an encouraging English teacher at St. Anne’s School. After settling in Colorado, Davidson created the Goldy Schulz series, inspired by Robert B. Parker’s food-themed mysteries. Her novels, which often include recipes, have earned her accolades like the Anthony Award and nominations for the Agatha and Macavity Awards. With 17 mysteries and a cookbook to her name, Davidson’s work is a feast for mystery lovers.
Why Read the Goldy Schulz Series?
The Goldy Schulz series stands out for its unique blend of cozy mystery and culinary flair. Here’s why readers keep coming back:
- Engaging Characters: Goldy Schulz, a witty and resourceful caterer, juggles solving crimes and running her catering business, making her relatable and inspiring.
- Foodie Appeal: Each book includes delectable recipes you can try at home, from chocolate treats to savory dishes, bringing the story to life.
- Cozy Mystery Vibes: Set in the picturesque Aspen Meadow, the series offers suspense without gore, perfect for fans of lighthearted whodunits.
- Humor and Heart: Goldy’s banter with her family and friends, including her detective husband Tom, adds warmth and charm to every story.
Whether you’re a foodie, a mystery enthusiast, or both, this series is a delightful escape.
Diane Mott Davidson Books in Order: Goldy Schulz Series
Below is the complete list of Diane Mott Davidson’s Goldy Schulz culinary mystery series in publication order, which is also the recommended reading order due to the chronological storyline. The table includes all novels, the related non-fiction cookbook, and a short story/novella, with publication years for reference.
| # | Title | Year | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Catering to Nobody | 1990 | Novel | Goldy Schulz’s catering gig turns deadly when a guest is poisoned, launching her amateur sleuth career in Aspen Meadow. |
| 2 | Dying for Chocolate | 1992 | Novel | A retreat to a friend’s cabin leads Goldy to a murder mystery, paired with chocolate-heavy recipes. |
| 3 | The Cereal Murders | 1993 | Novel | A high school catering event becomes a crime scene when a student is murdered. |
| 4 | The Last Suppers | 1994 | Novel | A priest’s death at a wedding catering job pulls Goldy into a personal and dangerous mystery. |
| 5 | Killer Pancake | 1995 | Novel | A cosmetics event catering job leads to corporate intrigue and a murder investigation. |
| 6 | The Main Corpse | 1996 | Novel | Goldy uncovers financial fraud and murder while catering for a mining company. |
| 7 | The Grilling Season | 1997 | Novel | Goldy must clear her ex-husband’s name when he’s suspected of murder, with BBQ-inspired recipes. |
| 8 | Prime Cut | 1998 | Novel | A rival caterer’s death sparks a mystery involving culinary sabotage. |
| 9 | Tough Cookie | 2000 | Novel | A ski resort catering job turns deadly amid a snowy murder investigation. |
| 10 | Sticks & Scones | 2001 | Novel | A historical reenactment at a castle leads to a murder Goldy must solve. |
| 11 | Chopping Spree | 2002 | Novel | A mall catering event uncovers dark secrets and a murder. |
| 12 | Double Shot | 2004 | Novel | A coffee-themed event brews trouble when a competitor is killed. |
| 13 | Dark Tort | 2006 | Novel | A law firm’s party ends in murder, with Goldy digging into legal secrets. |
| 14 | Sweet Revenge | 2008 | Novel | A holiday catering job turns deadly when a map dealer is murdered. |
| 15 | Fatally Flaky | 2009 | Novel | A wedding spa event leads to deception and a murder investigation. |
| 16 | Crunch Time | 2011 | Novel | A fire at a friend’s home reveals a murder Goldy must solve. |
| 17 | The Whole Enchilada | 2013 | Novel | The series finale, where a friend’s death at a party sends Goldy on a quest for truth. |
| – | Goldy’s Kitchen Cookbook | 2015 | Cookbook | A collection of recipes featured throughout the Goldy Schulz series. |
| – | Cold Turkey | 1992 | Short Story/Novella | A bite-sized Goldy Schulz mystery solving a quick crime. |
Notes:
- The Goldy Schulz series is best read in publication order to follow Goldy’s personal and professional journey.
- Davidson has also contributed short stories to anthologies like The Longman Anthology of Detective Fiction, which may include additional Goldy tales.
- All novels feature recipes tied to the story, making the series a favorite for foodie mystery fans.
Diane Mott Davidson Books in Order: Goldy Schulz Series
Below is the complete list of Goldy Schulz books in publication order, which is also the recommended reading order since the series follows a chronological storyline. Each title is a play on food or drink, reflecting the culinary theme.
- Catering to Nobody (1990)
Goldy Schulz’s catering gig takes a deadly turn when a guest is poisoned. As she investigates, she uncovers secrets in Aspen Meadow.
Why Read It: A perfect introduction to Goldy’s world with a gripping mystery and recipes like Goldy’s Cappuccino-Pecan Muffins. - Dying for Chocolate (1992)
Goldy retreats to a friend’s cabin, only to stumble upon another murder. Chocolate recipes sweeten the suspense.
Why Read It: A cozy setting and decadent desserts make this a fan favorite. - The Cereal Murders (1993)
A high school catering event turns deadly when a student is found murdered. Goldy digs into academic rivalries.
Why Read It: Clever plot twists and cereal-inspired recipes keep you hooked. - The Last Suppers (1994)
A wedding catering job goes awry when a priest is killed, and Goldy’s personal life gets complicated.
Why Read It: Emotional stakes and wedding-themed dishes add depth. - Killer Pancake (1995)
A cosmetics event leads to a murder, and Goldy must navigate corporate intrigue.
Why Read It: Pancake recipes and a fast-paced mystery make this a treat. - The Main Corpse (1996)
Goldy caters a mining company event, but financial fraud and murder stir up trouble.
Why Read It: A blend of corporate drama and savory recipes. - The Grilling Season (1997)
Goldy’s ex-husband is a suspect in a murder, forcing her to clear his name.
Why Read It: BBQ-inspired dishes and personal drama add spice. - Prime Cut (1998)
A rival caterer’s death puts Goldy in the hot seat as she uncovers culinary sabotage.
Why Read It: Intense rivalries and meaty recipes keep the stakes high. - Tough Cookie (2000)
A ski resort job leads to a suspicious death, and Goldy investigates amid snowy chaos.
Why Read It: Wintery vibes and cookie recipes make this a cozy read. - Sticks & Scones (2001)
A historical reenactment catering gig turns deadly, with Goldy solving a castle murder.
Why Read It: Scone recipes and a unique setting stand out. - Chopping Spree (2002)
A catering job at a mall leads to a murder, and Goldy uncovers dark secrets.
Why Read It: Shopping-themed intrigue and tasty recipes engage readers. - Double Shot (2004)
A coffee-themed event brews trouble when a competitor is killed.
Why Read It: Espresso-fueled suspense and coffee recipes perk you up. - Dark Tort (2006)
A law firm’s party ends in murder, and Goldy digs into legal secrets.
Why Read It: Tort recipes and a twisty plot make this a page-turner. - Sweet Revenge (2008)
A holiday catering job turns sour when a map dealer is murdered.
Why Read It: Festive vibes and sweet recipes add holiday cheer. - Fatally Flaky (2009)
A wedding spa event leads to a murder, and Goldy uncovers deception.
Why Read It: Flaky pastry recipes and wedding drama keep it fresh. - Crunch Time (2011)
A fire at a friend’s home reveals a murder, and Goldy investigates.
Why Read It: Crunchy recipes and intense suspense deliver. - The Whole Enchilada (2013)
A friend’s death at a party sends Goldy on a quest for the truth.
Why Read It: The series finale wraps up with bold flavors and closure.
Non-Fiction and Short Stories
- Goldy’s Kitchen Cookbook (2015)
A collection of recipes from the series, perfect for fans who want to cook like Goldy.
Why Read It: Brings the series’ culinary magic to your kitchen. - Cold Turkey (1992, Short Story/Novella)
A short tale featuring Goldy solving a quick mystery.
Why Read It: A bite-sized mystery for fans craving more. - Anthologies
Davidson has contributed to collections like The Longman Anthology of Detective Fiction. Check these for additional Goldy stories.
Tips for Reading the Goldy Schulz Series
- Start with Publication Order: The series builds on Goldy’s personal life, so reading in publication order (listed above) ensures you follow her journey.
- Try the Recipes: Each book includes recipes tied to the story. Cooking them enhances the experience—think chocolate truffles or savory scones!
- Enjoy the Cozy Vibes: Perfect for readers who love light mysteries with strong female leads and small-town charm.
- Join the Community: Connect with fans on Goodreads or book blogs to share favorite recipes and theories.
Fun Facts About Diane Mott Davidson
- Inspiration: Davidson got the idea for food-themed mysteries from Robert B. Parker, blending her love for cooking and suspense.
- Awards: She’s won the Anthony Award and was named Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers’ Writer of the Year in 1993.
- Personal Life: Married to her husband Jim for nearly 40 years, Davidson lives in Colorado with her family and a basset hound.
- Community Involvement: She’s volunteered as a tutor in a correctional facility and served as a rape-victim counselor.
Why This Series Is Perfect for 2025 Readers
With cozy mysteries trending in 2025, the Goldy Schulz series is a timeless pick. Its blend of food, humor, and suspense appeals to fans of authors like Joanne Fluke (Hannah Swensen series) or Ellie Alexander. Whether you’re curling up with a book or trying Goldy’s recipes, this series offers a comforting yet thrilling escape. Plus, with Goldy’s Kitchen Cookbook, you can bring Aspen Meadow’s flavors to your table.
Where to Buy Diane Mott Davidson Books
You can find the Goldy Schulz series at major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or your local bookstore. Many are available in paperback, eBook, and audiobook formats. For the latest deals, check sites like BookNotification.com or Amazon.
Conclusion: Start Your Culinary Mystery Journey Today
Diane Mott Davidson’s Goldy Schulz series is a delicious mix of mystery, food, and heart. With 17 novels, a cookbook, and a short story, there’s plenty to savor. Start with Catering to Nobody and work your way through the list above to enjoy Goldy’s adventures in order. Have a favorite Goldy recipe or book? Share in the comments below, and let’s talk mysteries and meals! Happy reading and happy cooking!
