Made In Savannah -- Cozy Series by Hope Callaghan

I have just finished the last available book in the cozy mystery series "Made In Savannah" by Hope Callaghan.  There were 9 books in the series with a 10th due out soon.  I am looking forward to it.

This series was delightful to read and held my interest, clearly.  The books are clean yet not squeaky --they do involve the Mafia, after all! They are not long books and are really quick reads. 

The characters are not as fleshed out and complex as they could be but it is very easy to identify with Carlita's plight trying to keep her children on the up and up -- pretty difficult for a Mafia wife! And Elvira -- what a character -- the kind of you love to hate but end up really liking -- just because.  The character of Mercedes could have been developed more but I suspect that is going to come in the next book. 

If you have any knowledge of Savannah, Georgia, you will be able to identify places with changed names, events and activities that are associated with the city, and the architectural descriptions.  However, I think the settings could have been expanded upon.  If you don't have a good working knowledge of Savannah, it would be hard to develop a mental picture of the area.

The plots are good but could have a few more twists and turns.  They are safe and straightforward but would be more engaging with more intrigue and complication.

With all this said, however, I do recommend these books.  If they hadn't been good I would never have stayed through the entire series.  I am looking forward to book 10 and hope it is out soon!