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A Jane Ladling Mystery #5
Grave Wars
Jane Ladling presents the perfect fail-proof “Don’t Fall Deeper In Love With Your Boyfriend” Checklist!
Remember the family curse—check (ish)
Keep your mind focused on his bid for sheriff—check
Never find his competition dead in their home—check mate?
For too long, Jane has lived in fear of a generational curse. Fall in love, lose the guy; marry him and watch him die. Finally, this quirky ray of sunshine is determined to experience all life offers. With the help of the world’s most amazing guardcat, she preserves Garden of Memories, a landlocked cemetery and heaven on earth. At her side is the best ragtag team of friends in history. Plus, she’s dating the tastiest snack in Aurelian Hills, Georgia. Protective grump and future sheriff Conrad Ryan. There’s just one problem: someone murdered Conrad’s only opponent.
Of course, like any expert amateur sleuth, Jane dives heart first into an investigation. Except, the hotter the leads, the colder the case. From feuding neighbors to secret blackmailers and a missing crime boss, reality proves stranger than fiction. As new buddies and old enemies emerge, Jane will stop at nothing to uncover the truth. And maybe, just maybe, she’ll win her own campaign along the way: being crowned Miss Happily Ever After.
Remember the family curse—check (ish)
Keep your mind focused on his bid for sheriff—check
Never find his competition dead in their home—check mate?
For too long, Jane has lived in fear of a generational curse. Fall in love, lose the guy; marry him and watch him die. Finally, this quirky ray of sunshine is determined to experience all life offers. With the help of the world’s most amazing guardcat, she preserves Garden of Memories, a landlocked cemetery and heaven on earth. At her side is the best ragtag team of friends in history. Plus, she’s dating the tastiest snack in Aurelian Hills, Georgia. Protective grump and future sheriff Conrad Ryan. There’s just one problem: someone murdered Conrad’s only opponent.
Of course, like any expert amateur sleuth, Jane dives heart first into an investigation. Except, the hotter the leads, the colder the case. From feuding neighbors to secret blackmailers and a missing crime boss, reality proves stranger than fiction. As new buddies and old enemies emerge, Jane will stop at nothing to uncover the truth. And maybe, just maybe, she’ll win her own campaign along the way: being crowned Miss Happily Ever After.
185 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 25, 2023
23 people are currently reading
586 people want to read
About the author
Gena Showalter
262 books27.9k followersGena Showalter is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of over seventy books, including the acclaimed Lords of the Underworld series, the Gods of War series, the White Rabbit Chronicles, and the Forest of Good and Evil series. She writes sizzling paranormal romance, heartwarming contemporary romance, and unputdownable young adult novels, and lives in Oklahoma City with her family and menagerie of dogs and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
September 29, 2023
I want to be Jane Landing.
Jane endured what most would call an unhappy childhood, abandoned by her parents she was raised by her grandparents who owned and lived in a landlocked (meaning no more burials allowed) cemetery, tormented at school she was given the name cemetery girl and it's stuck to this day. Now her grandparents are gone nd Jane has become the custodian of the cemetery a job she goes very seriously. Her relationship with the residents of Aurelia Hills has not improved over time Jane is still an outcast among the townsfolk, though there are a few who extend their friendship. As a defence mechanism Jane has developed her.one inimitable style, her dress is somewhat eccentric, homemade dresses in fifties styles, some from the twenties too, she never leaves the.house without a hat (or other form of headpiece) and drives around.town in a hearse.....what! It gives good mileage and still run perfectly (well sometime it does). Anyway this is Jane, also I should mention he is living with a family curse, if Jane falls in love that love will end badly, if she marries her love he will die. So ........ No love for Jane Landing, but that we before Conrad Reid came to town, a detective with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation he is investigating a murder (the body is found in Jane's cemetary) when Jane first meets him and although Jane is attracted she is determined to resist. That the bare bones of the books which are all good fun to read Jane Landing is a wonderful character her quirky at of looking t things help her we things others miss and free book one Jane decides she has a talent for detective work and sets.out with the aid of her.friends to.solve murders which keep happening in Aurelia Hills and.for.some.reason the killers.keep dumping the bodies in Jane's cemetery so.she has.to get involved....................it's almost like she was given an invitation...............
Jane endured what most would call an unhappy childhood, abandoned by her parents she was raised by her grandparents who owned and lived in a landlocked (meaning no more burials allowed) cemetery, tormented at school she was given the name cemetery girl and it's stuck to this day. Now her grandparents are gone nd Jane has become the custodian of the cemetery a job she goes very seriously. Her relationship with the residents of Aurelia Hills has not improved over time Jane is still an outcast among the townsfolk, though there are a few who extend their friendship. As a defence mechanism Jane has developed her.one inimitable style, her dress is somewhat eccentric, homemade dresses in fifties styles, some from the twenties too, she never leaves the.house without a hat (or other form of headpiece) and drives around.town in a hearse.....what! It gives good mileage and still run perfectly (well sometime it does). Anyway this is Jane, also I should mention he is living with a family curse, if Jane falls in love that love will end badly, if she marries her love he will die. So ........ No love for Jane Landing, but that we before Conrad Reid came to town, a detective with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation he is investigating a murder (the body is found in Jane's cemetary) when Jane first meets him and although Jane is attracted she is determined to resist. That the bare bones of the books which are all good fun to read Jane Landing is a wonderful character her quirky at of looking t things help her we things others miss and free book one Jane decides she has a talent for detective work and sets.out with the aid of her.friends to.solve murders which keep happening in Aurelia Hills and.for.some.reason the killers.keep dumping the bodies in Jane's cemetery so.she has.to get involved....................it's almost like she was given an invitation...............
October 2, 2023
* I would recommend reading the other entries in this series first.
Now the relationship between Jane and her hotshot boyfriend Conrad is official, Jane is supporting Conrad in his quest to become the new sheriff of Aurelian Hills. But then Jane is the one to find the dead body of Conrads only opponent, boosting them both to the top of the suspect list. Jane wouldn't be Jane however, if she didn't start her own investigation into the murder. With the help of new friends and mean enemies, she sets out to solve the crime and find her happily ever after with Conrad.
Another surprising mystery with our lovely Jane Ladling in the main role. I love how every mystery so far has been unique and fun and this entry is no exception to that rule. I didn't see this solution to the case coming and even the ending of the book was quite the surprise. It was fun and I'm a bit sad that the next book in the series will also be the last. This is the light and fluffy read that I need more of in my future.
Now the relationship between Jane and her hotshot boyfriend Conrad is official, Jane is supporting Conrad in his quest to become the new sheriff of Aurelian Hills. But then Jane is the one to find the dead body of Conrads only opponent, boosting them both to the top of the suspect list. Jane wouldn't be Jane however, if she didn't start her own investigation into the murder. With the help of new friends and mean enemies, she sets out to solve the crime and find her happily ever after with Conrad.
Another surprising mystery with our lovely Jane Ladling in the main role. I love how every mystery so far has been unique and fun and this entry is no exception to that rule. I didn't see this solution to the case coming and even the ending of the book was quite the surprise. It was fun and I'm a bit sad that the next book in the series will also be the last. This is the light and fluffy read that I need more of in my future.
October 10, 2023
This is, hands down one of my favorite series of all time and I loved this book so much! It’s such a comfort series for me. Gena and Jill (two of my absolute favorite authors of all time) truly outdid themselves with the 6th book of this series and I just had so much fun reading it! My one complaint, as always is I want more (I’m too greedy I know, I know!) lol and I’m already itching to get my hands on the last book.
Jane is her quirky, fun, animated, lovable self and Conrad is our smoke show of an agent as always. In this book, Jane and Conrad get to work together like never before to solve another murder mystery, which surprisingly didn’t happen at her cemetery, but in town! Not taking no for an answer she storms her way through this one to figure it out as an official consultant but… there is a surprise at the end of this book! It’s the sweetest thing of all time, I won’t give it away but, I totally swooned. And who would have though I’d end up liking Tiffany?! Lol, I actually really enjoyed her character in this book.
As always, Gena and Jill have written another amazing, sweet, fun murder mystery with a bit of romance on the side continuing to prove why they are my favorites! Jane and Conrad are so incredibly perfect for each other and I can’t express enough, my love for these characters and stories. I wholeheartedly recommend this series a thousand times over! ❤️
Jane is her quirky, fun, animated, lovable self and Conrad is our smoke show of an agent as always. In this book, Jane and Conrad get to work together like never before to solve another murder mystery, which surprisingly didn’t happen at her cemetery, but in town! Not taking no for an answer she storms her way through this one to figure it out as an official consultant but… there is a surprise at the end of this book! It’s the sweetest thing of all time, I won’t give it away but, I totally swooned. And who would have though I’d end up liking Tiffany?! Lol, I actually really enjoyed her character in this book.
As always, Gena and Jill have written another amazing, sweet, fun murder mystery with a bit of romance on the side continuing to prove why they are my favorites! Jane and Conrad are so incredibly perfect for each other and I can’t express enough, my love for these characters and stories. I wholeheartedly recommend this series a thousand times over! ❤️
October 14, 2023
We're back with Jane and Conrad and Jane's just as gloriously OTT convinced she absolutely can't fall in love with Conrad as ever. The generational curse might have been disproven, but Jane doesn't want to take any chances with her favorite person (outside all her other favorite people) so she's holding strong to the idea that she might enjoy being Conrad's girlfriend, but it can't go beyond that.
HA. Oh, Jane. Between Conrad's sly way of convincing her of things (he really does know how to get to the heart of problems with his girl) and her friends and all their insights, Jane doesn't stand a chance.
Speaking of friends, Jane appears to have picked up a new one. -Ish. Tiffany, Jane's perpetual suspect and potential stealer of Rolex's affections. It takes Jane time to get over her suspicions, but she eventually starts seeing that maybe Tiffany isn't quite as bad as she seemed to be. Plus, given that they're distantly related, Tiffany's family-adjacent now.
A dead body, a twisty investigation, clues that don't all add up, a sheriff's race that takes a turn, a man who is willing to fight hard for the lady who's stolen his heart, and a lady who is coming to realize she doesn't want to let life pass her by. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
HA. Oh, Jane. Between Conrad's sly way of convincing her of things (he really does know how to get to the heart of problems with his girl) and her friends and all their insights, Jane doesn't stand a chance.
Speaking of friends, Jane appears to have picked up a new one. -Ish. Tiffany, Jane's perpetual suspect and potential stealer of Rolex's affections. It takes Jane time to get over her suspicions, but she eventually starts seeing that maybe Tiffany isn't quite as bad as she seemed to be. Plus, given that they're distantly related, Tiffany's family-adjacent now.
A dead body, a twisty investigation, clues that don't all add up, a sheriff's race that takes a turn, a man who is willing to fight hard for the lady who's stolen his heart, and a lady who is coming to realize she doesn't want to let life pass her by. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
October 10, 2023
My favorite yet!
Read this review on Got Fiction? Book Blog
This was one of my favorites so far in the Jane Ladling series. I love this fun, cozy, and romantic series.
Quick background: Jane is the caretaker of an old cemetery that has been in her family for generations. Dead bodies keep finding her though, so she has become a bit of a detective. She’s quirky, she’s funny, she’s got a unique perspective on all the cases. She also believes her family is cursed in love and their partners will die due to the curse. She’s finally at the point where she’s starting to believe in love and not the curse. Enter her boyfriend Conrad Ryan.
Jane Ladling is out and about posting fliers for her boyfriend. He’s running for Sheriff. She winds up finding a dead body…and it’s her boyfriend’s competition, the current deputy. Or, the late deputy, it would seem. Obviously this doesn’t look good for either of them. But more determined that ever to crack this case, Jane finds that she’ll need all of her friends, new and old. And that she’ll make friends in places she never would have thought.
The clever twist that helped solve the case really got me! And I really feel like this whole series encompasses the cozy mystery vibe. If you aren’t a cozy mystery fan, you will be after you read this series.
With Gena and Jill’s trademark wit and wordsmithing, this book will climb to the top of your favorites. Read this book. See Jane solve crimes. See Jane win the day. See Jane find love. And for the love of all that’s holy, give Rolex his due as the best cat ever.
***ARC courtesy of the author’s publicist team
Read this review on Got Fiction? Book Blog
This was one of my favorites so far in the Jane Ladling series. I love this fun, cozy, and romantic series.
Quick background: Jane is the caretaker of an old cemetery that has been in her family for generations. Dead bodies keep finding her though, so she has become a bit of a detective. She’s quirky, she’s funny, she’s got a unique perspective on all the cases. She also believes her family is cursed in love and their partners will die due to the curse. She’s finally at the point where she’s starting to believe in love and not the curse. Enter her boyfriend Conrad Ryan.
Jane Ladling is out and about posting fliers for her boyfriend. He’s running for Sheriff. She winds up finding a dead body…and it’s her boyfriend’s competition, the current deputy. Or, the late deputy, it would seem. Obviously this doesn’t look good for either of them. But more determined that ever to crack this case, Jane finds that she’ll need all of her friends, new and old. And that she’ll make friends in places she never would have thought.
The clever twist that helped solve the case really got me! And I really feel like this whole series encompasses the cozy mystery vibe. If you aren’t a cozy mystery fan, you will be after you read this series.
With Gena and Jill’s trademark wit and wordsmithing, this book will climb to the top of your favorites. Read this book. See Jane solve crimes. See Jane win the day. See Jane find love. And for the love of all that’s holy, give Rolex his due as the best cat ever.
***ARC courtesy of the author’s publicist team
October 5, 2023
When the only competition for sheriff is found dead by our overconfident sleuth, team truth must find the killer and clear any possible suspicion from our very special detective agent Ryan.
This story was another fun installment in this cozy mystery series. The authors gave us a murder mystery full of over the top antics and a list of suspects as long as the town census. Jane is such an enjoyable character whose mind is always piecing together theories that others would discount. Conrad is a hunk that loves our leading lady and has no problem showing it.
I am excited to see where the last book in the series takes us.
This story was another fun installment in this cozy mystery series. The authors gave us a murder mystery full of over the top antics and a list of suspects as long as the town census. Jane is such an enjoyable character whose mind is always piecing together theories that others would discount. Conrad is a hunk that loves our leading lady and has no problem showing it.
I am excited to see where the last book in the series takes us.
December 18, 2023
This wasn’t the last one ??!!??!! 😭😭😭😭I’m so happy because I was not ready to say goodbye to them! I loved it! It was genuinely interesting to read and I loved putting the puzzle pieces together with everyone. I loved Jane and Conrad’s romance. It was so beautiful and organic and I cannot wait to see more.
An utterly pleasant surprise is Tiffany! I love their new sister relationship and seen as Sora has yet to make another appearance I am now shipping her with Beau or one of the 3 yum-yums because she deserves her happily ever after dammnit!
I need the next book right this second! 💙🪦
An utterly pleasant surprise is Tiffany! I love their new sister relationship and seen as Sora has yet to make another appearance I am now shipping her with Beau or one of the 3 yum-yums because she deserves her happily ever after dammnit!
I need the next book right this second! 💙🪦
October 14, 2023
Another cute adventure with Jane and the gang. Finally Jane I’d growing up and overcoming her fears of the “curse” as she works to solve the murder of Conrad’s opponent in the Sheriff’s race. These are definitely light and cozy reads, Jane is still quirky and silly and gathering misfits around her. Conrad embraces her oddities and knows how to outmaneuver her in order to allow Jane the time to come to decisions on her own. The murder mystery is light and Jane works with Conrad and the gang this time instead of behind his back. Tiffany was a surprise in this book!
October 3, 2023
Absolutely loved reading this book, it was another really great read, I loved the developments in their relationship, and this mystery!
September 26, 2023
I would like to start off by saying a big thank you to Gena Showalter and Jill Monroe for providing me with an arc copy in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts are my own.
Grave Wars is book 6 in The Jane Ladling Mystery Series! You could technically read it as a standalone but I highly recommend reading the books in order. That way you get a full grasp for the world, characters, and so you can truly see how everything is evolving and unraveling through the series!
The Jane Ladling Mystery Series Books Include
1. Romancing The Gravestone
2. No Gravestone Left Unturned
3. Game Of Gravestones
4. Twelve Graves Of Christmas
5. Falling For The Gravekeeper ( Conrad's POV of Romancing The Gravestone)
6. Grave Wars
It's always a delight to return to Aurelian Hills! Between the mysterious townsfolk always up to something, the rumors of old gold that run deep in the town's history, our quirky yet bewildering sleuth Jane, award winning guard cat Rolex, and the complete smokeshow's of men that are entangled in these mysteries! It's a pure delight in every way! Except for the dead bodies of course, but they lead to a lot of fun!
The charming little gold rush town of Aurelian Hills is about to be thrown into chaos again as Conrad's campaign to run for sheriff gets a little murky when his only competition is found dead. Which is definitely not a good look for our beloved Agent Spice. Jane Ladling is ready to solve the case and get Conrad elected!
The curse decides to ramp up its game a little in this one, while also mixing in some twists and turns of its own, that are thrust at Jane! On top of that our favorite gravekeeper has quite a few other curve balls thrown her way as well. So it was really fun and interesting to see how Jane handles everything. Jane adds such a unique element and personality to these books that I really enjoy. She creates this atmosphere in these stories that draws you in, and it makes you have to know more and just how she does it. Following along with her as she goes through this crazy thought process that just works for her to flesh out hard clues, it's as amazing as it is bewildering!
Our beloved Agent Spice is at it again with his brooding yet charming personality on full display! I loved seeing how much he has adapted to dealing with Jane's antics. Plus seeing him as a full immersed and supporting member of team truth, is so great! I won't spoil anything but I will say that I absolutely loved the Valentine's gift that Conrad gives Jane! Conrad gets a few twists and turns of his own in this one as well! It's so good!!
I really enjoyed the shift in some of the townsfolk and how their dynamics changed in this story! It had me stunned on a couple occasions! It made me need to know more. Beau anticipating Jane's antics had me not only grinning but laughing along with him. I completely adore these characters. Each time I see them they surprise me along the way. These people are such a wholesome bunch that are guaranteed to not only entertain you but also melt your heart!
This one definitely had me questioning some of the characters and their dynamic shift! It really drew me in and I just had to see what everyone's motive was! This mystery was a lot more intricate and I loved every minute of it! I devoured this book and I can't wait for more!
Gena and Jill do an absolutely phenomenal job with these books and I can't seem to get enough of Aurelian Hills and its scandalous inhabitants! These mysteries and the characters will suck you in! I highly recommend this series!
Grave Wars is book 6 in The Jane Ladling Mystery Series! You could technically read it as a standalone but I highly recommend reading the books in order. That way you get a full grasp for the world, characters, and so you can truly see how everything is evolving and unraveling through the series!
The Jane Ladling Mystery Series Books Include
1. Romancing The Gravestone
2. No Gravestone Left Unturned
3. Game Of Gravestones
4. Twelve Graves Of Christmas
5. Falling For The Gravekeeper ( Conrad's POV of Romancing The Gravestone)
6. Grave Wars
It's always a delight to return to Aurelian Hills! Between the mysterious townsfolk always up to something, the rumors of old gold that run deep in the town's history, our quirky yet bewildering sleuth Jane, award winning guard cat Rolex, and the complete smokeshow's of men that are entangled in these mysteries! It's a pure delight in every way! Except for the dead bodies of course, but they lead to a lot of fun!
The charming little gold rush town of Aurelian Hills is about to be thrown into chaos again as Conrad's campaign to run for sheriff gets a little murky when his only competition is found dead. Which is definitely not a good look for our beloved Agent Spice. Jane Ladling is ready to solve the case and get Conrad elected!
The curse decides to ramp up its game a little in this one, while also mixing in some twists and turns of its own, that are thrust at Jane! On top of that our favorite gravekeeper has quite a few other curve balls thrown her way as well. So it was really fun and interesting to see how Jane handles everything. Jane adds such a unique element and personality to these books that I really enjoy. She creates this atmosphere in these stories that draws you in, and it makes you have to know more and just how she does it. Following along with her as she goes through this crazy thought process that just works for her to flesh out hard clues, it's as amazing as it is bewildering!
Our beloved Agent Spice is at it again with his brooding yet charming personality on full display! I loved seeing how much he has adapted to dealing with Jane's antics. Plus seeing him as a full immersed and supporting member of team truth, is so great! I won't spoil anything but I will say that I absolutely loved the Valentine's gift that Conrad gives Jane! Conrad gets a few twists and turns of his own in this one as well! It's so good!!
I really enjoyed the shift in some of the townsfolk and how their dynamics changed in this story! It had me stunned on a couple occasions! It made me need to know more. Beau anticipating Jane's antics had me not only grinning but laughing along with him. I completely adore these characters. Each time I see them they surprise me along the way. These people are such a wholesome bunch that are guaranteed to not only entertain you but also melt your heart!
This one definitely had me questioning some of the characters and their dynamic shift! It really drew me in and I just had to see what everyone's motive was! This mystery was a lot more intricate and I loved every minute of it! I devoured this book and I can't wait for more!
Gena and Jill do an absolutely phenomenal job with these books and I can't seem to get enough of Aurelian Hills and its scandalous inhabitants! These mysteries and the characters will suck you in! I highly recommend this series!
September 26, 2023
Where to start?! This series just seems to get better after every book and the mystery more complex! It's one that keeps you trying to think like Jane as she pieces together clues along the way only to realize you were wrong or missing key evidence! Though I enjoyed seeing Jane and Conrad working together this time from start to finish, I did miss Jane having to sneak around and come up with crazy explanations and excuses trying to placate Conrad when she investigated behind his back. Those always gave me a good laugh.
I was also very happy to see Jane and Conrad's relationship progressing. I love how she decided to fight for what she not only wanted but what she honestly deserves. I don't think I've met a more forgiving and sweet heroine than Jane, unless of course you threathen or insult her loved ones. Or if you forget Rolex's perfection for even a minute! That's 63 seconds to long, even with his obvious betrayal that was like a knife to the heart! I'm still shocked by it and may or may not have grabbed my real life "Rolex" to cuddle and told him he's never allowed to betray me in such a way. Ever!
Conrad is boyfriend goals for sure, as well as my man Beau who I can't wait to see settle down, Sora anyone? Grave Wars shows you just how much Conrad really knows his woman and it was the sweetest thing ever. While I love their cuteness I'm rather hoping Beau and his special lady Jane is trying to find, or maybe already has found, for him have a sour then sweet type relationship. He is after all her eye candy friend.
I have to say I was most especially shocked to the point my jaw dropped at the conclusion of this book. My goodness that ending! Gena and Jill did us so dirty and I never saw it coming! I can't wait to see where things go for each couple and character in this series. Even the ones I thought I'd always hate.
I was also very happy to see Jane and Conrad's relationship progressing. I love how she decided to fight for what she not only wanted but what she honestly deserves. I don't think I've met a more forgiving and sweet heroine than Jane, unless of course you threathen or insult her loved ones. Or if you forget Rolex's perfection for even a minute! That's 63 seconds to long, even with his obvious betrayal that was like a knife to the heart! I'm still shocked by it and may or may not have grabbed my real life "Rolex" to cuddle and told him he's never allowed to betray me in such a way. Ever!
Conrad is boyfriend goals for sure, as well as my man Beau who I can't wait to see settle down, Sora anyone? Grave Wars shows you just how much Conrad really knows his woman and it was the sweetest thing ever. While I love their cuteness I'm rather hoping Beau and his special lady Jane is trying to find, or maybe already has found, for him have a sour then sweet type relationship. He is after all her eye candy friend.
I have to say I was most especially shocked to the point my jaw dropped at the conclusion of this book. My goodness that ending! Gena and Jill did us so dirty and I never saw it coming! I can't wait to see where things go for each couple and character in this series. Even the ones I thought I'd always hate.
September 25, 2023
It's safe to say that the Jane Ladling books will forever be a top cozy mystery series for me. There's just something about the plots and the characters that give these stories a little extra magic, and Grave Wars was no exception. I devoured Jane's latest adventure in one sitting - partially because I needed to know who the culprit was, but mostly (let's be honest) because I needed to know if Jane was finally going to forget about the curse and give in to her feelings for Conrad. Fans who have been waiting for Jane and Conrad to finally get together will be simultaneously praising and cursing the authors after this book. Saying that Grave Wars had an ending I never saw coming is an understatement.
Readers have been on quite the journey with these characters, and one of my favorite aspects of this story was how Gena and Jill were able to keep the plot fresh while also continuing to develop these characters. Jane and Conrad are truly at their peak in this book, and all of their friends (including a new ally) all shine as supporting characters. It was great to see Jane truly working with those closest to her to solve the mystery; in the past, Jane's quirkiness kept her on the outskirts. Now, Jane is right at Conrad's side, and these two made a formidable, if not humorous, team.
Even when things are going rough for Jane and her friends, Grave Wars never failed to make me feel warm and fuzzy. Between the fantastic cast of characters and Gena and Jill's cozy writing style, this book was easily a five-star read for me.
Readers have been on quite the journey with these characters, and one of my favorite aspects of this story was how Gena and Jill were able to keep the plot fresh while also continuing to develop these characters. Jane and Conrad are truly at their peak in this book, and all of their friends (including a new ally) all shine as supporting characters. It was great to see Jane truly working with those closest to her to solve the mystery; in the past, Jane's quirkiness kept her on the outskirts. Now, Jane is right at Conrad's side, and these two made a formidable, if not humorous, team.
Even when things are going rough for Jane and her friends, Grave Wars never failed to make me feel warm and fuzzy. Between the fantastic cast of characters and Gena and Jill's cozy writing style, this book was easily a five-star read for me.
October 4, 2023
Oh how I love catching up with Jane, Conrad, TeamTruth, Rolex, and other new/old friends! This time they're on the case of who killed Conrad's opponent in his bid for Sheriff of Aurelian Hills (after Jane finds the body, of course).
“Another body, Jane? Really?”
“The good news is, the body wasn’t on my property this time,” she said. “That’s progress.”
Who could have done the deed? Don't worry! Jane has a sure-fire way of catching the criminal - suspect everyone!! She really doesn't know how Conrad and his former agents solved any cases without her.... but she's here for them. She will close the case before the election. And she will fall, err...will not fall in love with Conrad. Nope. Never.
Love this series so hard! Quirky Jane, smoke-show Conrad, and Rolex and his murder mittens are my absolute favorites. I never want this series to end.
Wonder if I could talk Fiona into making me some of her famous blueberry pancakes?
Don't forget to vote Conrad for Sheriff!
Many thanks to the authors and Author Talk Media for an advance copy of this book. My thoughts and opinions are my own and without bias or favor or expectation.
“Another body, Jane? Really?”
“The good news is, the body wasn’t on my property this time,” she said. “That’s progress.”
Who could have done the deed? Don't worry! Jane has a sure-fire way of catching the criminal - suspect everyone!! She really doesn't know how Conrad and his former agents solved any cases without her.... but she's here for them. She will close the case before the election. And she will fall, err...will not fall in love with Conrad. Nope. Never.
Love this series so hard! Quirky Jane, smoke-show Conrad, and Rolex and his murder mittens are my absolute favorites. I never want this series to end.
Wonder if I could talk Fiona into making me some of her famous blueberry pancakes?
Don't forget to vote Conrad for Sheriff!
Many thanks to the authors and Author Talk Media for an advance copy of this book. My thoughts and opinions are my own and without bias or favor or expectation.
October 8, 2023
Man I love this series! It’s the perfect small town cosy mystery with a quirky heroine and a hero that worships every breath she breathes. I’m actually devastated that the next book will be the last because I will miss all the crazy antics.
Our heroine who runs one of the cemeteries in her small town is dragged into yet another murder (whilst campaigning for her boyfriend to be sheriff no less). Somehow both her boyfriend and current sheriff let her do her thing by running her own investigation because although she maybe kooky she does always hunt down the killer.
The mystery kept me guessing till the end and I enjoyed the twists and turns as much as I enjoyed the absolute craziness that is our heroine. Now that her and the hero are together I also love seeing how their relationship continues to develop. Now this is book 6 in the series and while they all can be read as standalone - when the series is this cute why would you miss out? Plus LOTS of pining in the first couple of books you do not want to miss out on!
Our heroine who runs one of the cemeteries in her small town is dragged into yet another murder (whilst campaigning for her boyfriend to be sheriff no less). Somehow both her boyfriend and current sheriff let her do her thing by running her own investigation because although she maybe kooky she does always hunt down the killer.
The mystery kept me guessing till the end and I enjoyed the twists and turns as much as I enjoyed the absolute craziness that is our heroine. Now that her and the hero are together I also love seeing how their relationship continues to develop. Now this is book 6 in the series and while they all can be read as standalone - when the series is this cute why would you miss out? Plus LOTS of pining in the first couple of books you do not want to miss out on!
September 26, 2023
Amazingly Great
I don't have the words to properly say how amazing this book is. This series gets better and better with each book, each crime to solve, and each interaction with Rolex.
Jane is her quirky and unique self, and Conrad is still hot and sweet. It's obvious how much he loves Jane, but that dang curse is always looming. To heck with it!
Anyway, a murder happens, Jane is needed to solve the case because she IS the best unoffical detective in history. As the case progresses, things are done and said, and lots happen that make my heart race and mind whirl. This case is a doosy.
The end? Oh, that is the best part of the book, and I can't wait for the next book in the series. If you've read the other books, you see how they are connected, and the funny bites are scattered throughout the series and items related to the series. This book is great ans a must have for the collection.
I don't have the words to properly say how amazing this book is. This series gets better and better with each book, each crime to solve, and each interaction with Rolex.
Jane is her quirky and unique self, and Conrad is still hot and sweet. It's obvious how much he loves Jane, but that dang curse is always looming. To heck with it!
Anyway, a murder happens, Jane is needed to solve the case because she IS the best unoffical detective in history. As the case progresses, things are done and said, and lots happen that make my heart race and mind whirl. This case is a doosy.
The end? Oh, that is the best part of the book, and I can't wait for the next book in the series. If you've read the other books, you see how they are connected, and the funny bites are scattered throughout the series and items related to the series. This book is great ans a must have for the collection.
December 19, 2025
I’m a huge fan of this series and usually rate the books 4–5 stars, but this book didn’t quite work for me, and I’m not entirely sure why.
It had all the familiar elements I normally love in this series, yet somehow it still fell short. I didn’t find myself fully immersed or “eating it up” the way I did with the previous books.
The mystery, in particular, didn’t impress me much, it felt fairly one-dimensional and lacked the depth I was expecting. I also missed the strong small-town atmosphere and the quirky, interconnected side characters that usually add so much charm and texture. They were technically present, but emotionally they didn’t feel fully realized, if that makes sense.
That said, I still love this series and have no hesitation about continuing, I’ll absolutely be jumping into the final book. This one just wasn’t a personal favorite.
It had all the familiar elements I normally love in this series, yet somehow it still fell short. I didn’t find myself fully immersed or “eating it up” the way I did with the previous books.
The mystery, in particular, didn’t impress me much, it felt fairly one-dimensional and lacked the depth I was expecting. I also missed the strong small-town atmosphere and the quirky, interconnected side characters that usually add so much charm and texture. They were technically present, but emotionally they didn’t feel fully realized, if that makes sense.
That said, I still love this series and have no hesitation about continuing, I’ll absolutely be jumping into the final book. This one just wasn’t a personal favorite.
September 26, 2023
This is not just a typical cozy mystery. Aurelian Hills is not just your average quant town either. Jane is a great quirky character who has a bad habit of finding dead bodies. Conrad, her on again off again (but “off” seems to just be in Jane’s head) boyfriend is finally beginning to accept that where Jane is trouble will follow no matter how hard he tries to protect her. Luckily he is not alone in his love for Jane or efforts to keep her safe. Team Truth is always right there to help protect her and maybe even solve the case. Chaos will ensue but so will adventure, mystery, love and friendship ultimately leading to the answers. A fabulous new addition to a great series!!!
September 27, 2023
Jane Ladling & Conrad Ryan are by far my favorite book couple!! Jane is funny, quirky & entertaining as always!! All I can say is this is another fantastic addition to this series with all the wonderful, endearing characters that we have grown to love. This time Conrad’s competition for running for sheriff is found murdered & Jane is on the case. I can’t say enough about this book & series except that you have to read them, you are truly missing out if you don’t. I voluntarily read for an honest review.
October 9, 2023
Bye Bye Curse
Yet another murder in Aurelian Hills and things do not add up. Jane discovers the deputy who is running against her boyfriend for sheriff murdered in his home. Once again, she gathers Team Truth to learn the identity of the killer. The most likely suspect dabbles in blackmail, but is he capable of murder. Jane must relinquish the fear of her curse if she is to tell her sexy boyfriend her true feelings and send the curse on its way.
An easy read that is entertaining and enjoyable. Hate to say not ready for the series to end.
Yet another murder in Aurelian Hills and things do not add up. Jane discovers the deputy who is running against her boyfriend for sheriff murdered in his home. Once again, she gathers Team Truth to learn the identity of the killer. The most likely suspect dabbles in blackmail, but is he capable of murder. Jane must relinquish the fear of her curse if she is to tell her sexy boyfriend her true feelings and send the curse on its way.
An easy read that is entertaining and enjoyable. Hate to say not ready for the series to end.
September 25, 2023
This book, wow, from the moment that I started reading it, I new that I was going to have a hard time putting it down. It moves along at a comfortable speed which is perfect for the flow of this story making for an easy and enjoyable read. The characters are so amazing and you feel as though you know them and no matter what happens you cannot help but love them. This book needs to be at the top of your TBR list, no doubt about it.
May 17, 2024
Este fue con el que más me tarde en leer y también el que menos me ha gustado, a pesar de que creo que el misterio en éste está mejor planteado que en los anteriores. No se si este me ha parecido más lento por la pequeña cantidad de interacciones entre Jane y Conrad o porque lo leí en temporada de evaluaciones en la universidad.
Como sea, sigue siendo una serie que me encanta y duele que este sea el penúltimo.
Como sea, sigue siendo una serie que me encanta y duele que este sea el penúltimo.
December 10, 2025
This book was amazing! She finally let him love her and she obviously love him too, without admitting it! Only in the end did she admit to loving him! I loved the their romance in this book and the mystery part was good as well!
I didn’t like Tiffany in the first book and in this one I also didn’t like her, I only started liking her when she help/saved the FMC!
I loved the end where she proposed to him!! I’m so excited to read the final book but also I’m so sad because it’s the final one!
I didn’t like Tiffany in the first book and in this one I also didn’t like her, I only started liking her when she help/saved the FMC!
I loved the end where she proposed to him!! I’m so excited to read the final book but also I’m so sad because it’s the final one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 26, 2023
I am going to be so sad when this story is over!!!
I love Jane and Conrad together. He is so cute with her. I love that she is working her mind over the curse and hoping that she gives love a chance.
I can't wait and can wait for the next book!! I really hope that the authors might continue.
I love Jane and Conrad together. He is so cute with her. I love that she is working her mind over the curse and hoping that she gives love a chance.
I can't wait and can wait for the next book!! I really hope that the authors might continue.
September 26, 2023
Jane and Conrad keep getting better and better. Though they are opposites, they are perfect for each other. I’ve been addicted to this cozy mystery series since the very beginning! I love the wit, humor, mystery and murder.
October 1, 2023
An action packed, emotionally thrilling and sweetly engaging adventure filled with mystery, danger and passion... Enjoyed every heart pounding twist and turn that kept me reading page after page from beginning to the thrilling end. An edge of your seat emotional roller-coaster journey.
October 9, 2023
Another adorable Jane Mystery!
I've loved this series from book 1! They're always so fun, sweet and exciting! I love a good whodunit and Jane is such an adorable character, it's easy to love her and everyone in her circle. It's a great read for October.
I've loved this series from book 1! They're always so fun, sweet and exciting! I love a good whodunit and Jane is such an adorable character, it's easy to love her and everyone in her circle. It's a great read for October.
April 12, 2024
I just love all of these books so much. The epitome of cozy mystery with chaotic good characters.
I know I will walk away pleased and not traumatized every time. 10 out of 10 in the cozy mystery with a dose of romance space.
I know I will walk away pleased and not traumatized every time. 10 out of 10 in the cozy mystery with a dose of romance space.
June 10, 2024
My second favourite of this series. Loved the book. My only issue was that there were several typos in the digital version. regulated instead of relegated; fiancé used instead of fiancée for Jane. Could probably do with further editing and then updating the Kindle copies of users.
October 3, 2023
I just keep enjoying these books. Jane is so fun and quirky. Conrad is so devoted, sexy and accommodating to Jane and her quirkiness. The entire cast is likable and their own versions of quirky.
Watching Jane finally accepting that maybe this Ladling curse isn't really going to doom Conrad and accepting how much he means to her has been fun all along but solidifies more now. Rolex is back but infatuated with the widow who's now living in Jane's house and what? burrowing into Jane's heart?
The story, yet another murder of course, is laid out well to keep the reader wondering throughout who did it and why.
The story is just fun, creative and entertaining.
Vote for Conrad!
Thanks to the author for the ARC.
Watching Jane finally accepting that maybe this Ladling curse isn't really going to doom Conrad and accepting how much he means to her has been fun all along but solidifies more now. Rolex is back but infatuated with the widow who's now living in Jane's house and what? burrowing into Jane's heart?
The story, yet another murder of course, is laid out well to keep the reader wondering throughout who did it and why.
The story is just fun, creative and entertaining.
Vote for Conrad!
Thanks to the author for the ARC.
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