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Miss Fortune Mystery #3
Swamp Sniper
From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Jana DeLeon, the third book in the Miss Fortune Mystery series.
When only a crack shot will do…
In the two weeks CIA assassin Fortune Redding has been hiding in Sinful, Louisiana, she’s been harassed, poisoned, and shot at…and that was the easy part. But now, she’s about to face her biggest challenge since setting foot in the tiny bayou town.
When mayoral candidate Ted Williams is murdered, everyone is surprised. Ted was a blowhole and a Yankee, but those usually weren’t good reasons to kill someone. When Sinful Ladies Society leader Ida Belle becomes the lead suspect in the crime, Fortune knows she’s got to solve a murder and save one of the only friends she’s ever had.
But as the investigation begins, more and more secrets surface, and Fortune realizes that sometimes nothing is as it seems.
When only a crack shot will do…
In the two weeks CIA assassin Fortune Redding has been hiding in Sinful, Louisiana, she’s been harassed, poisoned, and shot at…and that was the easy part. But now, she’s about to face her biggest challenge since setting foot in the tiny bayou town.
When mayoral candidate Ted Williams is murdered, everyone is surprised. Ted was a blowhole and a Yankee, but those usually weren’t good reasons to kill someone. When Sinful Ladies Society leader Ida Belle becomes the lead suspect in the crime, Fortune knows she’s got to solve a murder and save one of the only friends she’s ever had.
But as the investigation begins, more and more secrets surface, and Fortune realizes that sometimes nothing is as it seems.
268 pages, ebook
First published September 25, 2013
1566 people are currently reading
1939 people want to read
About the author
Jana Deleon
102 books4,228 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Jana DeLeon was raised in southwest Louisiana among the bayous and gators. Her hometown is Carlyss, but you probably won't find it on a map. Her family owned a camp located on a bayou just off the Gulf of Mexico that you could only get there by boat. The most important feature was the rope hammock hanging in the shade on a huge deck that stretched out over the water where Jana spent many hours reading books.
Jana and her brother spent thousands of hours combing the bayous in a flat-bottom aluminum boat, studying the natural habitat of many birds, nutria and alligators. She would like you to know that no animals were injured during these "studies," but they kept makers of peroxide in business.
Jana has never stumbled across a mystery or a ghost like her heroines, but she's still hopeful.
She now resides in Dallas, Texas, with the most spoiled Sheltie in the world.
Jana and her brother spent thousands of hours combing the bayous in a flat-bottom aluminum boat, studying the natural habitat of many birds, nutria and alligators. She would like you to know that no animals were injured during these "studies," but they kept makers of peroxide in business.
Jana has never stumbled across a mystery or a ghost like her heroines, but she's still hopeful.
She now resides in Dallas, Texas, with the most spoiled Sheltie in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 721 reviews
October 18, 2021
This is a series that is loosely related. There's not a ton of overlap, though the relationship between Fortune and Carter seems to be on a slow-burn progression. So I recommend reading in order, but you don't really have to. Definitely read at least the first, though, because the girl squad really does need some background, I think.
I'm not sure it actually works for the characters to be wondering what's up with all the shenanigans since Fortune became a resident. I mean, it's part of the series because murders seem to be the preferred mystery in these books. So that many murders in that many weeks (each book is a week, it seems) is a bit much for a small town. So they kind of have to notice it. But do they really? I mean it's the basis for the fiction so calling it out felt pro-forma at best.
I still love Fortune and her posse. I don't have much tolerance for slapstick but I found myself laughing myself sick at one or two scenes in this one. For the slapstick. And that's nearly unheard of. Having the plot hold together and the pace stay strong was just icing, really.
And I liked developments with Carter, too. It's very slow in terms of a series, but it has only been a few weeks internally, so not as slow as it feels. I'm a bit worried that Fortune's resistance is mostly negative motivation*. And generally unexamined, at that. Though to counter that a bit, I did enjoy the couple of characters who managed to challenge her, gently, about maybe she shouldn't be as temporary as her plans indicate.
At any rate, I was five-star entertained by this story. That's only possible because Deleon pulls off the premise so entertainingly. It's in no way realistic or anything more than escapist fantasy. But it's my kind of escapist fantasy, so it gets all the stars.
A note about Chaste: The only real romantic prospect is busy and still doubting whether to trust Fortune or not. Their friendship is near the point where her lying to him is becoming something of a problem and this story skirts around that a little. But there's no real intimacy and zero fooling around. So it's very chaste.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back (or, if that link doesn't work, here's a cache of the original) and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
I'm not sure it actually works for the characters to be wondering what's up with all the shenanigans since Fortune became a resident. I mean, it's part of the series because murders seem to be the preferred mystery in these books. So that many murders in that many weeks (each book is a week, it seems) is a bit much for a small town. So they kind of have to notice it. But do they really? I mean it's the basis for the fiction so calling it out felt pro-forma at best.
I still love Fortune and her posse. I don't have much tolerance for slapstick but I found myself laughing myself sick at one or two scenes in this one. For the slapstick. And that's nearly unheard of. Having the plot hold together and the pace stay strong was just icing, really.
And I liked developments with Carter, too. It's very slow in terms of a series, but it has only been a few weeks internally, so not as slow as it feels. I'm a bit worried that Fortune's resistance is mostly negative motivation*. And generally unexamined, at that. Though to counter that a bit, I did enjoy the couple of characters who managed to challenge her, gently, about maybe she shouldn't be as temporary as her plans indicate.
At any rate, I was five-star entertained by this story. That's only possible because Deleon pulls off the premise so entertainingly. It's in no way realistic or anything more than escapist fantasy. But it's my kind of escapist fantasy, so it gets all the stars.
A note about Chaste: The only real romantic prospect is busy and still doubting whether to trust Fortune or not. Their friendship is near the point where her lying to him is becoming something of a problem and this story skirts around that a little. But there's no real intimacy and zero fooling around. So it's very chaste.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back (or, if that link doesn't work, here's a cache of the original) and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
September 30, 2013
• OH WOW this is good. Even if you have not read the other two it is a stand alone. BUT do read the other two as one of the very few authors out there who does not have half of previous book in the next. And each book is more like coming home to good family. You will fall in love with Fortune, Gertie and Ida Bell and maybe a bit of drool over Carter. But the most important thing that will happen is you will laugh and laugh and laugh out loud. Jana can spin a tale that you are right in the scene with the characters. I love Jana's books and cannot wait to get a new one read it so fast that I would get sad that I am finishing but am laughing so hard. Very good author and what an imagination.
October 28, 2019
This is the hardest rating I have ever given. I liked the story, it was funny and the characters were quirky, but I find that I am less into the cozy mystery genre than I have been. Maybe because it was a favorite genre that I have been reading for at least 30 years-- starting with the different Charlotte Macleod series', Mrs. Polifax series and the Death by Demand series... Maybe it has just been too much and I need a larger break than I thought.
Still, I would recommend this book to cozy mystery lovers. It was definitely funny and I really liked the characters. The mystery wasn`t really much, but the story had a fast pace and was quick and easy to read.
Still, I would recommend this book to cozy mystery lovers. It was definitely funny and I really liked the characters. The mystery wasn`t really much, but the story had a fast pace and was quick and easy to read.
June 27, 2020
This wasn't my favorite of the Miss Fortune series. I thought the story was good, though getting even less believable because the stories occur in such a short time span. My favorite part of these stories is the humor and witty banter and this one was good, but not as good as the previous book in that area. I will still continue with the series because I really enjoy these Sinful ladies.
By the way, for anyone interested, Sinful, Louisiana has its own website. The can check it out here: http://sinfullouisiana.com
By the way, for anyone interested, Sinful, Louisiana has its own website. The can check it out here: http://sinfullouisiana.com
July 7, 2025
You never know when someone might start shooting.
This series is silly fun, but you do have to be in the right mood for it. After a couple of disappointing fantasy novels, I was ready for a bit of slapstick and Keystone Kops-like mayhem. I do recommend that you leave a good gap between books, or you will become bored with the repetitive nature of the humour. After all, how much longer can I giggle at Ida Belle refusing to wear her glasses? Or Gertie's kamikaze boat driving? Or Fortune having to hoist one of them into a tree or over a fence?
Fortune is supposed to be keeping a low profile in Sinful, Louisiana. She knows the rules—number one, do not get attached. That's already blown out of the water. She has discovered other women with military background (Gertie and Ida Belle) who are now her co-conspirators. Her friend Ally is thankfully younger, but has no idea of Fortune's true profession. Now she has been adopted by a cat. The ties to Sinful just keep increasing.
What makes Fortune a bit twitchy is her relationship with Deputy Carter LeBlanc. She knows that he has to do his job, whether that makes him happy or not. And she feels bad lying to him. What I don't think she has considered yet is that she can't be part of the Sinful Ladies Society anymore if she hooks up with him. The rules state that members must be single or widowed for at least 5 years. Carter is definitely interested and she can tell that he's pained each time she lies to him. Feeling guilty was the last thing she expected.
Although Swamp Team 3 is available and I'm tempted to plunge on in the series, I think I will pause instead. It's been three months in between books 2 and 3, and that has worked well for me. So maybe this fall I'll grab book 4.
I've been off a bit since I've been in Sinful. The residents here are not nearly as predictable as terrorists.
This series is silly fun, but you do have to be in the right mood for it. After a couple of disappointing fantasy novels, I was ready for a bit of slapstick and Keystone Kops-like mayhem. I do recommend that you leave a good gap between books, or you will become bored with the repetitive nature of the humour. After all, how much longer can I giggle at Ida Belle refusing to wear her glasses? Or Gertie's kamikaze boat driving? Or Fortune having to hoist one of them into a tree or over a fence?
Fortune is supposed to be keeping a low profile in Sinful, Louisiana. She knows the rules—number one, do not get attached. That's already blown out of the water. She has discovered other women with military background (Gertie and Ida Belle) who are now her co-conspirators. Her friend Ally is thankfully younger, but has no idea of Fortune's true profession. Now she has been adopted by a cat. The ties to Sinful just keep increasing.
What makes Fortune a bit twitchy is her relationship with Deputy Carter LeBlanc. She knows that he has to do his job, whether that makes him happy or not. And she feels bad lying to him. What I don't think she has considered yet is that she can't be part of the Sinful Ladies Society anymore if she hooks up with him. The rules state that members must be single or widowed for at least 5 years. Carter is definitely interested and she can tell that he's pained each time she lies to him. Feeling guilty was the last thing she expected.
Although Swamp Team 3 is available and I'm tempted to plunge on in the series, I think I will pause instead. It's been three months in between books 2 and 3, and that has worked well for me. So maybe this fall I'll grab book 4.
I've been off a bit since I've been in Sinful. The residents here are not nearly as predictable as terrorists.
June 12, 2018
In the two weeks CIA assassin Fortune Redding has been hiding in Sinful, Louisiana, she’s been harassed, poisoned, and shot at…and that was the easy part. But now, she’s about to face her biggest challenge since setting foot in the tiny bayou town.
This is the third book in the Miss Fortune series, set in Louisiana. I have no idea why I'm still reading these. They are mediocre at best and not nearly as funny as they could be. I felt like the comedic relief in this one was all done in the previous book. There are only so many times the same scenario is going to work. There was one mildly funny scene that involved the bathroom at the police department, but other than that it didn't really make me laugh at all. And really, how many people can get murdered in one tiny town in just two weeks? It's very far-fetched, but it is light reading that isn't supposed to be taken too seriously. At this point though, I'm really not sure if I'm going to continue on with this series.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
This is the third book in the Miss Fortune series, set in Louisiana. I have no idea why I'm still reading these. They are mediocre at best and not nearly as funny as they could be. I felt like the comedic relief in this one was all done in the previous book. There are only so many times the same scenario is going to work. There was one mildly funny scene that involved the bathroom at the police department, but other than that it didn't really make me laugh at all. And really, how many people can get murdered in one tiny town in just two weeks? It's very far-fetched, but it is light reading that isn't supposed to be taken too seriously. At this point though, I'm really not sure if I'm going to continue on with this series.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
March 18, 2018
Swamp Sniper by Jana Deleon was not a disappointment. I couldn't get book #2 from my library so I skipped on to this one. I know I missed another fun romp with Fortune, Ida Belle and Gertie with book #2 but I'll go back and get it when it's available.
Ms. Deleon's imagination is amazing when it comes to what she puts these ladies up to and I'm glad. Another wild ride as Fortune, Ida Belle and Gertie are now investigating a murder that has implicated Ida Belle. I laughed till I cried at their strategies and the twists and turns almost made me dizzy - in a good way.
Ms. Deleon's imagination is amazing when it comes to what she puts these ladies up to and I'm glad. Another wild ride as Fortune, Ida Belle and Gertie are now investigating a murder that has implicated Ida Belle. I laughed till I cried at their strategies and the twists and turns almost made me dizzy - in a good way.
July 9, 2017
This series is laugh out loud funny and, although, it is a little unbelievable it has a very worthy suspense/mystery plot. In only three weeks in the little town of Sinful, Louisiana there has been a string of murders and mayhem. The only new element in town is Miss Fortune, who is a librarian who has come to town to settle her aunt's estate, at least that is her "cover". Fortune is actually a CIA assassin who is in hiding from a terrorist who wants her dead. I cannot wait to see what happens in the next installment for Fortune, and the Geratol Mafia, Gertie, and Ida Belle.
Ida Belle is running for mayor of Sinful and her opponent, Ken, has been murdered. The evidence points to Ida Belle, but Fortune and Gertie are determined to prove her innocence. Deputy Carter has told them, very explicitly, to butt out, but that is not going to stop them.
Ida Belle is running for mayor of Sinful and her opponent, Ken, has been murdered. The evidence points to Ida Belle, but Fortune and Gertie are determined to prove her innocence. Deputy Carter has told them, very explicitly, to butt out, but that is not going to stop them.
June 6, 2022
Swamp Sniper by Deleon is the third hilarious installment in the Miss Fortune mystery series. After a near brush with death, Fortune tries to keep out of trouble by trying to assist Ida Belle with her run for mayor. When Ida's competition turns up poisoned and the same poison is found in a bottle of "cough syrup" given to him by Ida, the trio resorts to their usual antics to insure that Ida Belle is cleared. It doesn't take long to figure that the list of people with reason to kill Tom is quite lengthy. The hard part will be narrowing the field down to the correct culprit before Deputy Carter is forced to arrest Ida. 5 stars.
March 18, 2018
3.75 stars
If you're a citizen of Sinful, Louisiana, your odds of dying before nature intends are pretty high. Fortune Redding has only been in town, hiding out from an arms dealer she pissed off on one of her missions as a CIA agent, for three weeks but already there have been three murders...in a town of just about 300 people. Clearly, reading this series demands a complete suspension of disbelief...especially when you have to account for the utterly crazy "missions" that Fortune and her two over-seventy accomplices, Gertie and Ida Belle, get up to. Their misadventures reach Lucy Ricardo and Ethel Mertz level of epicness in their absurdity. Gertie is emerging as my favorite and it's a wonder she hasn't broken a hip by now. The lying to Deputy Carter is starting to get frustrating especially since the rationale for it doesn't make much sense. Fortune doesn't want Carter to know her real identity but I can't help wondering why it would be such a bad thing if he knew. It'd be one thing if he had been shown to be lazy, inept, or corrupt in his job as law enforcement but he's none of those things. He's the exact opposite in fact. I think it could only be a benefit for Fortune if the trustworthy local law officer knew of her special circumstances. But, whatever, it's all played for laughs and at least Fortune is starting to feel guilty about it as she grows to like Carter more than she ever intended to.
This time around we find Sinful in the midst of a mayoral campaign. Ida Belle is running for election but when her opponent ends up dead with her specialhomemade moonshinecough syrup as the agent of delivery for arsenic poisoning, things don't look so good for the old girl. Of course, neither Fortune or Gertie can just sit by while suspicious eyes turn towards their friend. Cue the whackadoodle shenanigans. I'm rounding my rating up to four stars because it certainly delivers on the chuckles and that's just what I've been in the mood for.
If you're a citizen of Sinful, Louisiana, your odds of dying before nature intends are pretty high. Fortune Redding has only been in town, hiding out from an arms dealer she pissed off on one of her missions as a CIA agent, for three weeks but already there have been three murders...in a town of just about 300 people. Clearly, reading this series demands a complete suspension of disbelief...especially when you have to account for the utterly crazy "missions" that Fortune and her two over-seventy accomplices, Gertie and Ida Belle, get up to. Their misadventures reach Lucy Ricardo and Ethel Mertz level of epicness in their absurdity. Gertie is emerging as my favorite and it's a wonder she hasn't broken a hip by now. The lying to Deputy Carter is starting to get frustrating especially since the rationale for it doesn't make much sense. Fortune doesn't want Carter to know her real identity but I can't help wondering why it would be such a bad thing if he knew. It'd be one thing if he had been shown to be lazy, inept, or corrupt in his job as law enforcement but he's none of those things. He's the exact opposite in fact. I think it could only be a benefit for Fortune if the trustworthy local law officer knew of her special circumstances. But, whatever, it's all played for laughs and at least Fortune is starting to feel guilty about it as she grows to like Carter more than she ever intended to.
This time around we find Sinful in the midst of a mayoral campaign. Ida Belle is running for election but when her opponent ends up dead with her special
October 22, 2019
Swamp Sniper is book 3 in the Miss Fortune Mystery series. I cannot get enough of these books. They are so funny. I started to binge listen to this series a few days ago and I find that I don't want to turn them off so I am blowing through them really quickly. I really like the characters and the whole who-dun-it aspect of the story. I don't have a lot of experience with Cozy Mysteries yet but from what I have read so far, I think this is a genre that I will really enjoy for years to come. I typically like a good dose of romance in my books so this is really different for me. I am happy to say that there is a bit of a budding romance between the main character, Fortune, and the town deputy, Carter. It is just a few bread crumbs that they are tossing me here and there but I'll take it. I am super excited to continue this series and see what the ladies of Sinful, Louisiana get up to next.
The narration is perfect for the book. I think the narrator does a good job with voices and pacing. I recommend this as an audiobook.
The narration is perfect for the book. I think the narrator does a good job with voices and pacing. I recommend this as an audiobook.
January 6, 2015
A funny and fun read
I usually read more complex mysteries and thrillers, but don't let the humor and light hearted set of this book steer you away from an opportunity to enjoy the efforts of this very able author. This is my third or fourth book by this author. For me it's not just about the mystery, it's about the eccentric, odd but totally believable characters, and the wild ride that takes you sliding and squealing to the conclusion. I have only read her Miss Fortune series so far, but I have every reason to believe that her talents will shine through in her other books as well. But don't take my word for it, take one for a spin yourself and see if your speedometer takes on some extra highs.
I usually read more complex mysteries and thrillers, but don't let the humor and light hearted set of this book steer you away from an opportunity to enjoy the efforts of this very able author. This is my third or fourth book by this author. For me it's not just about the mystery, it's about the eccentric, odd but totally believable characters, and the wild ride that takes you sliding and squealing to the conclusion. I have only read her Miss Fortune series so far, but I have every reason to believe that her talents will shine through in her other books as well. But don't take my word for it, take one for a spin yourself and see if your speedometer takes on some extra highs.
May 23, 2021
Swamp Sniper by Jana Deleon is 2013 publication.
This cozy mystery is book 3 in the Miss Fortune Mystery series. Reading the books in order is advisable so you get the MCs story arc, but not necessary.
Feelings led to guilt…
Each week of hiding out in Sinful, Louisiana have been eventful for Fortune when her priority has been to steer clear of exposure. When a mayoral candidate, one running against Fortune’s friend Ida Belle, is murdered following a public debate, Ida Belle becomes the prime suspect. Fortune will do anything to save her newfound friend from these false charges.
Soon Fortune realizes the mayoral candidate, “Theodore ‘Call-Me-Ted’ Williams” was more than an unlikable Yankee.
_________________
This was another great addition to the Miss Fortune Mystery series. The escapades of Fortune, Gertie, and Ida Belle are typical and humorous. In just over two weeks, these ladies have formed a strong friendship bonding over all that had happened since Fortune blew into town. When Fortune is involved somehow in, yet another murder, she proclaims, “One murder a week really should be the town limit.”
Although Swamp Sniper was not the funniest book thus far, it was a turning point for Fortune and Deputy Carter. Until this point, Fortune had not questioned keeping vital information she and the ladies discovered in their investigation a secret from Carter. Afterall, her life has depended upon being careful with that sort of thing. Now that she has begun to develop feelings for Carter, even if she does not realize the full extent of them, she feels guilty about her deception.
The murder mystery plot was enjoyable, and all points were fully supported. All the clues were in the text, but I still didn’t totally guess the twist. In fact, each book has offered just enough info to make me think I knew what was going on, before the end tied everything together. That’s one of the reasons why I find this series so satisfying, besides all the laughs and hint of romance.
The happy feelings I am left with after reading a book in this series is quite addicting. Next up, Swamp Team 3.
Favorite quotes from book 3:
This cozy mystery is book 3 in the Miss Fortune Mystery series. Reading the books in order is advisable so you get the MCs story arc, but not necessary.
Feelings led to guilt…
Each week of hiding out in Sinful, Louisiana have been eventful for Fortune when her priority has been to steer clear of exposure. When a mayoral candidate, one running against Fortune’s friend Ida Belle, is murdered following a public debate, Ida Belle becomes the prime suspect. Fortune will do anything to save her newfound friend from these false charges.
Soon Fortune realizes the mayoral candidate, “Theodore ‘Call-Me-Ted’ Williams” was more than an unlikable Yankee.
_________________
This was another great addition to the Miss Fortune Mystery series. The escapades of Fortune, Gertie, and Ida Belle are typical and humorous. In just over two weeks, these ladies have formed a strong friendship bonding over all that had happened since Fortune blew into town. When Fortune is involved somehow in, yet another murder, she proclaims, “One murder a week really should be the town limit.”
Although Swamp Sniper was not the funniest book thus far, it was a turning point for Fortune and Deputy Carter. Until this point, Fortune had not questioned keeping vital information she and the ladies discovered in their investigation a secret from Carter. Afterall, her life has depended upon being careful with that sort of thing. Now that she has begun to develop feelings for Carter, even if she does not realize the full extent of them, she feels guilty about her deception.
The guilt was overwhelming and I chastised myself, once again, for letting things get personal. If I hadn’t allowed myself to get friendly with Carter, I wouldn’t feel bad about lying to him now. I never thought I’d admit it, even to myself, but being a normal person was so much more difficult than being an assassin.
The murder mystery plot was enjoyable, and all points were fully supported. All the clues were in the text, but I still didn’t totally guess the twist. In fact, each book has offered just enough info to make me think I knew what was going on, before the end tied everything together. That’s one of the reasons why I find this series so satisfying, besides all the laughs and hint of romance.
The happy feelings I am left with after reading a book in this series is quite addicting. Next up, Swamp Team 3.
Favorite quotes from book 3:
Only in Sinful could someone win a mayoral election on the strength of a banana pudding cooler.
[Fortune]In my experience, the only thing that worked on crazy was crazier, and I could definitely top anything Sinful could deal out.
“So what I’m getting from this is that if Carter ever got you mad enough to shoot up your own house, you might keep him.”
March 11, 2025
'Swamp Sniper' was my third visit with Fortune Redding in the (very) small town of Sinful Louisana. Sadly, it was disappointing. I hadn't expected the series to start to feel tired by the third book. I almost set this aside because the first third of the book was all slapstick, pratfalls, sinking boats, will-she-won't-she with Carter and not much else. I felt like I'd read most of this book before. Yet again I had a murder of a not very nice person with one of Fortune's friends as the chief suspect. Yet again, Carter had to be kept out of the loop. Yet again, a lot of the humour came from Gertie bumping into things or crashing boats because she refused to wear her glasses. I was reminded of how bored I got with Stephanie Plum blowing up a car in every book.
A plot did finally surface just before the halfway point. If the book had started there, I wouldn't have felt that I'd missed much. I liked the plot, just not the pace it was revealed at. The scene with the gaseous open-coffined corpse made me laugh and the final action scenes were vivid and tense.
Overall, this book just about scraped three stars. I have the next book, 'Swamp Team 3' in my TBR but I'm not in a hurry to read it. I think I need a break from the women of Sinful so that the next Miss Fortune book I read won't feel so tired.
A plot did finally surface just before the halfway point. If the book had started there, I wouldn't have felt that I'd missed much. I liked the plot, just not the pace it was revealed at. The scene with the gaseous open-coffined corpse made me laugh and the final action scenes were vivid and tense.
Overall, this book just about scraped three stars. I have the next book, 'Swamp Team 3' in my TBR but I'm not in a hurry to read it. I think I need a break from the women of Sinful so that the next Miss Fortune book I read won't feel so tired.
March 27, 2023
This is book 3 in the Miss Fortune Mystery series.
I am obsessed with Fortune, Gertie and Ida Belle. The trouble that they get into is hilarious. And I am excited to hopefully see more romance.
Can't wait to read the next book.
I am obsessed with Fortune, Gertie and Ida Belle. The trouble that they get into is hilarious. And I am excited to hopefully see more romance.
Can't wait to read the next book.
April 12, 2022
My third Fortune book and my least favorite. I know it’s fiction, but it still seems like the action is taken just a step or two too far past funny. Let the hilarity ensue without going on and on and on … the banter between characters is written well, and I wish DeLeon would let the character development and interactions be the star instead of the outrageous craziness.
Not even halfway through the book and I knew who the murderer was, while Fortune was writing them off as a suspect. For a CIA agent in hiding, she is not that good at what she does. Just very disappointed overall.
I really wanted to like this series more, but as it stands I think this will be my last book in this series. I’m rating it a strong two but I’m not willing to round it up.
Not even halfway through the book and I knew who the murderer was, while Fortune was writing them off as a suspect. For a CIA agent in hiding, she is not that good at what she does. Just very disappointed overall.
I really wanted to like this series more, but as it stands I think this will be my last book in this series. I’m rating it a strong two but I’m not willing to round it up.
June 14, 2017
After the last book in this series I had almost decided to give up but the ratings for this book were very high so I thought I would give it one last chance.
Unfortunately I really don’t understand why the book gets such good reviews. A top CIA assassin falls in a toilet and gets stuck !! This is the height of the humour.
The author has created a really interesting set of characters but then makes them behave like circus clowns. It’s obviously just me, but I find this slapstick humour just too childish, especially when they should be capable of so much more.
Unfortunately I really don’t understand why the book gets such good reviews. A top CIA assassin falls in a toilet and gets stuck !! This is the height of the humour.
The author has created a really interesting set of characters but then makes them behave like circus clowns. It’s obviously just me, but I find this slapstick humour just too childish, especially when they should be capable of so much more.
November 26, 2016
Swamp Sniper by Jana DeLeon is the 3rd book in the Miss Fortune Mystery series. When her rival for the position of mayor of Sinful, Louisianna, is murdered, Ida Belle becomes chief suspect. This series just keeps getting better. A light, very entertaining and very funny book that will keep you laughing. Fortune seems to get herself in a lot of strange situations. The scene in the church where the corpse lets off gas was hilarious. The narrator for this series is superb.
July 12, 2019
I gave it this series 3 tries and that is all the time I going to waste on it. There were some funny part but then they were repeated over and over, can we say cut and paste. But the complete ineptness of the main character()was just to much to take. They all should have died in the first book just due to their stupidity.
March 16, 2020
2020 bk 91: A local election. Even without our terrific trio of main characters a local election can call to minds all sorts of mischief, but add in Sinful, Louisiana and you've got a crime. In this case, one of the mayoral candidates is murdered and Ida Belle is the chief suspect. Follow Fortune and her sidekicks as they seek out the real criminal in this fun story.
June 12, 2015
These books about the small town of Sinful, LA. are such fun to read. The characters are lively with a great sense of humor and the mysteries convoluted and not always so easy to figure out. Very enjoyable books by Jana Deleon.
September 23, 2021
3.5 STARS
I am still enjoying the series, but this installment teetered more on silliness than humor. I continue to adore Fortune and the ladies, but I did not find the mystery as engaging. I will keep going to this series when a light/fun read is needed.
I am still enjoying the series, but this installment teetered more on silliness than humor. I continue to adore Fortune and the ladies, but I did not find the mystery as engaging. I will keep going to this series when a light/fun read is needed.
March 25, 2022
This is book 3 in the Sinful Louisiana series. It begins with Ida Belle running for mayor. I mean, come on, that alone is ridiculous enough to make you laugh. The story gets better and I laughed out loud multiple times. The small town antics and view of the deep south is just too funny.
July 21, 2015
Very predictable. Same premise and action that was in first book
December 31, 2020
Fortune, who is a CIA assassin, is being hunted by a very dangerous man. It was decided that she should go underground and disappear. She is living now in a small town call Sinful in Louisiana . She is suppose to be a librarian who is there to settle her aunt's estate. She has met up with two seniors called Gertie and Ida Belle who had done undercover work in the Vietnam era. They get into many dangerous situations together. They make a good team.
Ida Belle is running for mayor against Ted, a relative newcomer to Sinful. When Ted turns up murdered by poison, suspicion turns against Ida Belle. She had given Ted a small bottle of "cough syrup" moonshine, which appears to have contained poison. Fortune and Gertie go through many escapades to solve the murder and take the suspicion off Ida May. Time is running out as Ida May will soon be arrested.
I like to read this series when I want to read a book that is light, fun, humorous and a quick read. The series is quite entertaining.
Ida Belle is running for mayor against Ted, a relative newcomer to Sinful. When Ted turns up murdered by poison, suspicion turns against Ida Belle. She had given Ted a small bottle of "cough syrup" moonshine, which appears to have contained poison. Fortune and Gertie go through many escapades to solve the murder and take the suspicion off Ida May. Time is running out as Ida May will soon be arrested.
I like to read this series when I want to read a book that is light, fun, humorous and a quick read. The series is quite entertaining.
June 3, 2024
What I like most about these books is that there is a certain level of believability in them. They’re not overly sappy, often quite funny, and there’s an element of realism not often seen in cozies. A CIA agent hiding in a small town from a druglord hit put out on her, masquerading as the niece of a recently deceased towns person. She’s hooked up with two older citizens who happen to be Vietnam special service veterans. The three of them, wind up in some pretty madcap, murder investigations, usually declare the name of somebody they know and often, one of their own. The it’s hard to believe a CIA agent would make as many mistakes as there are in these books, it’s still done with humor and several follow-up excuses. But I really like the characters and will continue to do so, at least I hope so.
February 24, 2021
Far-out fun with laugh out loud moments.
April 14, 2025
Fun. easy, comfortable, loveable characters...
November 17, 2023
Read as an audio book. This was nearly a DNF.
What started out as a quirky, fun, slightly implausible but agreeable series turned ridiculous and utterly implausible. And I say this as someone who reads science fiction and fantasy. This was a train wreck in painfully slow motion, and I skipped an hour and a half of narration to confirm the "who done it" and see how the awkward romance progresses.
While the first two books made for good commute reads, I kept bouncing back to my podcasts with this one. I can see one or two situations with Idabell, Gertie and Fortune getting out of control, but it was every. single. one. in this installment. And every "mis-fortune" could have been mitigated by Fortune taking the lead and going solo, using those stealthy CIA skills.
Sadly a slapstick comedy of errors became a painful read and I really don't know if I have it in me to listen to the next one. Which is a shame because the narrator does an outstanding performance.
Sigh.
What started out as a quirky, fun, slightly implausible but agreeable series turned ridiculous and utterly implausible. And I say this as someone who reads science fiction and fantasy. This was a train wreck in painfully slow motion, and I skipped an hour and a half of narration to confirm the "who done it" and see how the awkward romance progresses.
While the first two books made for good commute reads, I kept bouncing back to my podcasts with this one. I can see one or two situations with Idabell, Gertie and Fortune getting out of control, but it was every. single. one. in this installment. And every "mis-fortune" could have been mitigated by Fortune taking the lead and going solo, using those stealthy CIA skills.
Sadly a slapstick comedy of errors became a painful read and I really don't know if I have it in me to listen to the next one. Which is a shame because the narrator does an outstanding performance.
Sigh.
November 20, 2018
When the mayor candidate is killed, everyone thinks that Ida Belle did it since she was running for mayor as well. However, that is not at all what happened. Fortune and her friends must do everything they can to try to clear Ida Belle, even if that puts someone else at risk.
This was another great addition to the series. I thought Fortune was awesome in this one, and she is finally starting to realize that she enjoys what she is doing now, and is learning to have close feelings for all those new people around her.
After reading another great book, I'm excited for more. Fortune is an amazing hilarious character, and the two old ladies are also funny.
This was another great addition to the series. I thought Fortune was awesome in this one, and she is finally starting to realize that she enjoys what she is doing now, and is learning to have close feelings for all those new people around her.
After reading another great book, I'm excited for more. Fortune is an amazing hilarious character, and the two old ladies are also funny.
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