Summer in Warner Pier on Lake Michigan means long, cozy days and beautiful sunsets. This summer it also means pirates. Not the modern dangerous version, but a small group of acrobatic performers dressed to the nines in pirate gear who board boats, seemingly at random, and all for the sake of a prank. No one gets hurt, but no one can find out who they are, either. Soon vacationers and residents are casting off at sunset in droves, hoping to be the next group to be entertained by their local pirate troop. Lee McKinney Woodward figures it's just more of the pirate fever in Warner Pier fanned by the success of a recent movie starring hot Hollywood heartthrob Marco Spear. She manages to keep her head down and focuses on running her aunt's chocolate shop, TanHuis, until rumors explode about Marco planning a visit to her town to pick up a yacht he has ordered. Things take a turn toward the serious when a young man disappears, and a body is found at the beach near Lee and her husband Joe's home bearing a tattoo similar to one seen on the arm of one of the mysterious pirates. Lee wants nothing more than peace to be returned to Warner Pier, and she is willing to do whatever she can to help solve the mystery.

Cozy as cozy gets, THE CHOCOLATE PIRATE PLOT is the tenth book in this gentle, entertaining series. Long-time readers will not be disappointed. JoAnna Carl has filled her story with an entertaining plot sprinkled thoroughly with chocolate trivia. This is the perfect book to snuggle with to forget about any unpleasant winter weather while getting to know some of your favorite characters a bit better. Fireplace and hot chocolate are optional, but recommended.