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Murder by Month Mystery #2
June Bug
Mira James never imagined life after college would be a doublewide trailer outside Battle Lake, Minnesota. Then again, maybe the North Country has more to offer than mosquitoes and broasted chicken.
Local legend claims that a diamond necklace was lost nearly a century ago in Whiskey Lake, not far from the present day Shangri-La resort. Mira, a part-time reporter, goes fishing for the story behind the legend, but her dives turn up more than missing jewelry. Buoyed by frozen Nut Goodies and a diminutive circus performer, the exhilarating search leads to a new mystery to unravel, and puts her face to face with the surfacing of a menacing foe from her past.
Local legend claims that a diamond necklace was lost nearly a century ago in Whiskey Lake, not far from the present day Shangri-La resort. Mira, a part-time reporter, goes fishing for the story behind the legend, but her dives turn up more than missing jewelry. Buoyed by frozen Nut Goodies and a diminutive circus performer, the exhilarating search leads to a new mystery to unravel, and puts her face to face with the surfacing of a menacing foe from her past.
240 pages, Hardcover
First published March 8, 2007
1059 people are currently reading
5707 people want to read
About the author
Jess Lourey
50 books4,447 followersMy name is Jess Lourey, and I write about secrets.
The story of my first published novel is both devastating and transformative, something I speak about in my TEDx Talk (https://youtu.be/a5vSLh3oPXI). I've come a long way since then. I'm proud to call myself a bestselling, twice Edgar-nominated, and twice Goodreads Readers Choice Awards shortlisted author who has won the ITW Thriller, Minnesota Book, and Anthony Awards. I write crime fiction, young adult, nonfiction, children's books, and book club fiction.
I've reached over a million readers since 2020. I'm also a former writing and sociology professor who still loves to teach transformative creative writing workshops built around my Rewrite Your Life method.
I live in Minneapolis with a rotating batch of foster kittens (and occasional foster puppies, but man those goobers are a lot of work). Pop on over to Lourey's Literati, my VIP Reader group on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/groups/38538...) and/or sign up for my molasses newsletter (https://jessicalourey.com/newsletter) for the latest news, giveaways, and insider information.
p.s. You can find the Unspeakable Things epilogue here: https://jessicalourey.com/survey-two.
The story of my first published novel is both devastating and transformative, something I speak about in my TEDx Talk (https://youtu.be/a5vSLh3oPXI). I've come a long way since then. I'm proud to call myself a bestselling, twice Edgar-nominated, and twice Goodreads Readers Choice Awards shortlisted author who has won the ITW Thriller, Minnesota Book, and Anthony Awards. I write crime fiction, young adult, nonfiction, children's books, and book club fiction.
I've reached over a million readers since 2020. I'm also a former writing and sociology professor who still loves to teach transformative creative writing workshops built around my Rewrite Your Life method.
I live in Minneapolis with a rotating batch of foster kittens (and occasional foster puppies, but man those goobers are a lot of work). Pop on over to Lourey's Literati, my VIP Reader group on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/groups/38538...) and/or sign up for my molasses newsletter (https://jessicalourey.com/newsletter) for the latest news, giveaways, and insider information.
p.s. You can find the Unspeakable Things epilogue here: https://jessicalourey.com/survey-two.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 262 reviews
May 28, 2024
This is book 2 in the Murder by Month mystery series and this series is being re-released. I liked the protagonist better in the first book than this one, but the way it ended left me hope I will like her more again in future books. Mira is continuing to work as the librarian and reporter in the small town where she is house sitting for her best friend. In the middle of the night she was surprised in bed by Jason, an old friend of her best friend, who she can’t stand. He’s back visiting because of a contest to find a replica of a necklace that went missing under suspicious circumstances. The person who finds it and opens the box it’s in will get 5000 dollars. Mira knows something more than meets the eye is going on with Jason and what happened back in the day when the jewelry went missing. I like that these mystery books have humor woven in. I like Mira as an amateur detective and I was glad to see she gained some gumption to protect herself in this one. Overall I gave this one 3.5 stars rounded up because I have a soft spot for a librarian amateur sleuth.
February 3, 2025
Trouble Magnet
Mira is a trouble magnet. Dead bodies and useless men always find her, or she finds them. Mira is staying in the house of a friend in Battle Lake, MN while she writes for the tiny local newspaper and keeps the library going. Somehow or another a deadbeat boyfriend showed up in her bed, assuming she was the owner of the house. Ugh, how disgusting!
This book had promise, but didn’t thrill me. I did most of it on Audible and the performer was good. The character, however, was a little too odd to be a leading lady. The author had real life trauma that shows up in all of her books, and sometimes she doesn’t work it out in a way that’s interesting. The writing wasn’t bad and there was a mystery. Three stars for this snoozer.
Mira is a trouble magnet. Dead bodies and useless men always find her, or she finds them. Mira is staying in the house of a friend in Battle Lake, MN while she writes for the tiny local newspaper and keeps the library going. Somehow or another a deadbeat boyfriend showed up in her bed, assuming she was the owner of the house. Ugh, how disgusting!
This book had promise, but didn’t thrill me. I did most of it on Audible and the performer was good. The character, however, was a little too odd to be a leading lady. The author had real life trauma that shows up in all of her books, and sometimes she doesn’t work it out in a way that’s interesting. The writing wasn’t bad and there was a mystery. Three stars for this snoozer.
May 19, 2024
June Bug is the next book in the Murder by Month Mystery series that follows a woman who moves to a small Minnesota town and becomes a librarian. She keeps stumbling onto different mysteries in this small town. This one is about a missing necklace and people diving in the lake to find it for a competition.
I like these books. They are quick reads with a bit of humor, a bit of romance, and some mystery. I like all of the unique small town characters. I also love the small town, I would love to live in a small town like this one. It reminds me of Gilmore Girls or something like that. I loved the description of the nature settings as well.
I think the mystery was good too. It had a few different mysteries sprinkled in and it kept me interested throughout the story. Some of it was maybe just a bit dramatic but it didn't take away from my reading experience.
My biggest complaint is that I feel like some of the dialogue was just a bit weird. I feel like some of it just didn't feel real.
I did still enjoy this one and I'll continue on with the series! It is a cute series and I can't wait to continue.
Thanks so much to netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I like these books. They are quick reads with a bit of humor, a bit of romance, and some mystery. I like all of the unique small town characters. I also love the small town, I would love to live in a small town like this one. It reminds me of Gilmore Girls or something like that. I loved the description of the nature settings as well.
I think the mystery was good too. It had a few different mysteries sprinkled in and it kept me interested throughout the story. Some of it was maybe just a bit dramatic but it didn't take away from my reading experience.
My biggest complaint is that I feel like some of the dialogue was just a bit weird. I feel like some of it just didn't feel real.
I did still enjoy this one and I'll continue on with the series! It is a cute series and I can't wait to continue.
Thanks so much to netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review!
June 19, 2025
Mira is well on the way now to being the gal I met in November Hunt. Jed is in the scene now, poised to become her friend. Mrs. Berns has weaseled her way into a library assistant job with Mira and is saying and doing the inappropriate things that I love her for. Kennie Rogers is coming up with goofy schemes to try to make money. Plus Mira has met Johnny, although under less than ideal circumstances.
The mystery in this volume wasn't my favourite, but that could be because Mira doesn't have true partners in crime yet. She certainly has her reporter hat that she puts on to justify her curiosity, but she really doesn't have backup. Her dealings with Jason's violence prove that she could use some help, and unlike some main characters of cozy mysteries, Mira realizes it and is appropriately scared. At this point in the series, she's honestly on the edge of propriety herself, wielding a skeleton key, sneaking into hotel rooms, and generally slinking around.
It's interesting to see Mira's relationships and her place in the Battle Lake community evolving. I'm glad that I backtracked to read these early volumes of the series.
The mystery in this volume wasn't my favourite, but that could be because Mira doesn't have true partners in crime yet. She certainly has her reporter hat that she puts on to justify her curiosity, but she really doesn't have backup. Her dealings with Jason's violence prove that she could use some help, and unlike some main characters of cozy mysteries, Mira realizes it and is appropriately scared. At this point in the series, she's honestly on the edge of propriety herself, wielding a skeleton key, sneaking into hotel rooms, and generally slinking around.
It's interesting to see Mira's relationships and her place in the Battle Lake community evolving. I'm glad that I backtracked to read these early volumes of the series.
August 10, 2019
Easy, fun summer read... I already have the next book in this series ready to read...
May 15, 2024
The second book in the Murder by Month mystery series, and I'm starting to wonder about how the author is linking the protagonist to the mystery. I didn't really buy into the motivation for Mira to get involved in the hunt for the jewels in this book. The structure of the mystery was fine, but the impetus for her involvement, that seemed just to be because of spite, felt strange for a mystery series like this.
Part of me acknowledges that this book is probably meeting its brief. It's touted as a romantic comedy mystery. Maybe it depends on the humour you enjoy? I don't mind a bit of slapstick comedy, but not thrown at me for the entire book.
What we're given is a mystery that turns into a treasure hunt and has a coded message to solve. If anything in a mystery is going to grab my attention, those two elements will. But it's not the elements in the book, it's the characters and the plot that were lacking. The same issues I had with book one are prominent in the second book. Far too many of the characters are just too quirky. I wasn't enthralled with the comedic attempts - found them too forced. And much of it wasn't really funny at all. No doubt there are other readers who will find it funny, but this just feels too Stephanie Plum for me. And I looked up June bugs, or June beetles (which I think they are called), and why would the author have the protagonist colliding with one and being knocked out? That scene alone is enough to emphasise issues the the plot. Please correct me if I'm wrong, but having a June beetle hit your head is not going to knock you out and give you a huge lump on your head that is prominent for days. Am I wrong?
What saves this book for me are three things. The author included a threat that did seem real to the protagonist. Secondly, the action at the end. You could feel suspense in that scene. It was strong and well written. From that scene I could tell the author knew how to write. I just wish the rest of the book was written in that way. The final thing is, despite my thoughts on how quirky the characters are, the author is giving me a sense of community in this small town, and that feels real. And I think small town settings need that sense. It's vital for making the setting more realistic.
Thanks to the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for providing a free copy of this book for a review.
Part of me acknowledges that this book is probably meeting its brief. It's touted as a romantic comedy mystery. Maybe it depends on the humour you enjoy? I don't mind a bit of slapstick comedy, but not thrown at me for the entire book.
What we're given is a mystery that turns into a treasure hunt and has a coded message to solve. If anything in a mystery is going to grab my attention, those two elements will. But it's not the elements in the book, it's the characters and the plot that were lacking. The same issues I had with book one are prominent in the second book. Far too many of the characters are just too quirky. I wasn't enthralled with the comedic attempts - found them too forced. And much of it wasn't really funny at all. No doubt there are other readers who will find it funny, but this just feels too Stephanie Plum for me. And I looked up June bugs, or June beetles (which I think they are called), and why would the author have the protagonist colliding with one and being knocked out? That scene alone is enough to emphasise issues the the plot. Please correct me if I'm wrong, but having a June beetle hit your head is not going to knock you out and give you a huge lump on your head that is prominent for days. Am I wrong?
What saves this book for me are three things. The author included a threat that did seem real to the protagonist. Secondly, the action at the end. You could feel suspense in that scene. It was strong and well written. From that scene I could tell the author knew how to write. I just wish the rest of the book was written in that way. The final thing is, despite my thoughts on how quirky the characters are, the author is giving me a sense of community in this small town, and that feels real. And I think small town settings need that sense. It's vital for making the setting more realistic.
Thanks to the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for providing a free copy of this book for a review.
December 5, 2018
This is a very fast read.
I just had to google a june bug to see what it looks like. I find it hard to imagine contact with one resulting in an injury as described in this book.
There is a lot of oogling of the opposite sex in the beginning. Just not my thing. It tapers off as the action takes place but is involved with the ending. Not really integral to the plot.
The plot is very imaginative and the violence is not excessive. This is a fun series that most of my reading group is planning to approach to read December Dread.
I will get there too eventually.
I bought a copy of this installment in the series because the library did not have a copy.
I just had to google a june bug to see what it looks like. I find it hard to imagine contact with one resulting in an injury as described in this book.
There is a lot of oogling of the opposite sex in the beginning. Just not my thing. It tapers off as the action takes place but is involved with the ending. Not really integral to the plot.
The plot is very imaginative and the violence is not excessive. This is a fun series that most of my reading group is planning to approach to read December Dread.
I will get there too eventually.
I bought a copy of this installment in the series because the library did not have a copy.
March 9, 2010
This book made me laugh out loud while reading it. It's a funny series with some am sleuthing thrown in. Chech it out.
May 30, 2024
Mira James and the residents of Battle Lake, Minnesota, are growing on me. Looking forward to the next book in the Murder-by-Month series.
June 28, 2021
I LOVED Bloodline and Unspeakable Things, but YEESH I don't know if I'm going to be able to get through this first series of books Jess Lourey wrote when she was very obviously still green as a writer. I rounded up the stars for book 1 in the series because the afterward was so sweet and cool, explaining she knew it wasn't great but it had been personally significant to her as a coping strategy to get through a traumatic time of her life. And while this second one is better written as a whole and far less cringy crass, I struggled even more to finish it than I did the first one. I guess knowing the characters in this one made the uneven story and shallow characterizations seem even more campy and silly. And I really don't like the main character at all, which makes it very hard to care. I bought a bundle that included the first 4 of this 12 part series, but I don't know if I can do another. I am not looking forward to another ridiculous plot with still way too much awkwardly inserted sex stuff about characters that are genuinely unlikeble. I am absolutely NOT a prude, but one of the things I hate most in arts, entertainment, advertising, or conversation is anything done just for the sake of shock value. While she harnesses this and the small-town weirdness expertly in her later books, in these? Not so much.
Read
September 27, 2022 This series is pretty darn funny and quirky for a mystery series, maybe even cute, if that can be used to describe a mystery series. Having read the books for July, May and now June (in that order), I plan on continuing. Mira's adventures in small town Battle Lake, MN are a bit addictive for me, and I'm excited to see what body she stumbles upon next.
Plenty of little one-liners - "'... and come alone, or I'll disappear like dust in the wind.' Good lord. What sort of self-respecting circus performer quoted Kansas?"
And plenty of self-deprecation (but not in a whiny way), "If you look up 'dumb' in the dictionary, you would see as the definition 'one who meets a carnival performer on the lam in a secluded area at midnight.'"
And I don't have a handy example, but the descriptions of some of the side characters are usually quite creative and off beat (unlike the basic adjectives I'm using here!)
I'm not sure why these didn't take off like Jess Lourey's other books, but I'm ready to book a trip to Battle Lake, MN just because of them! (Also, to the publisher or whomever makes these decisions - why not audio books?)
Plenty of little one-liners - "'... and come alone, or I'll disappear like dust in the wind.' Good lord. What sort of self-respecting circus performer quoted Kansas?"
And plenty of self-deprecation (but not in a whiny way), "If you look up 'dumb' in the dictionary, you would see as the definition 'one who meets a carnival performer on the lam in a secluded area at midnight.'"
And I don't have a handy example, but the descriptions of some of the side characters are usually quite creative and off beat (unlike the basic adjectives I'm using here!)
I'm not sure why these didn't take off like Jess Lourey's other books, but I'm ready to book a trip to Battle Lake, MN just because of them! (Also, to the publisher or whomever makes these decisions - why not audio books?)
July 18, 2021
I wasn't sure I wanted to continue with the series after the first book, but I love the idea of monthly-themed cozy mysteries, so I gave it a shot. I didn't love the story. There were some darker elements that stretch a little outside the cozy subgenre. However, it's the way the main character talked about men that made it a DNF for me. It was a little vulgar and distasteful. It's definitely a personal preference, but it's not for me. There are too many other books I'd rather be reading.
July 11, 2024
A Delightful Dive
4.25 out of 5 stars
June Bug by Jess Lourey, narrated by the talented Jennifer Jill Araya, is an absolute gem that sparkles with mystery and charm. Having just finished May Day, the first book in the Murder by Month Mystery series, I was eager to dive back into the quaint, quirky world of Battle Lake, Minnesota. Lourey’s ability to blend cozy mystery elements with gripping suspense is a true delight, and this book takes it up a notch.
The story kicks off with Mira James, our intrepid part-time reporter, who finds herself caught up in a local treasure hunt. What starts as a fun summer escapade quickly turns into a high-stakes adventure when Mira discovers more than just a faux diamond at the bottom of Whiskey Lake.
Lourey’s knack for creating a comfortable yet thrilling atmosphere shines through as Mira unravels a puzzle that spans decades, all while dodging a menacing figure from her past. The balance of “oh no, what’s going to happen” mixed with that cozy “everything will hopefully be okay” charm kept me hooked from start to finish.
What makes this series truly special is the return of Mira James. Her character is hilariously relatable, especially when her love interest is around, transforming her into a lovable, tongue-tied puddle.
Lourey’s writing also captures the essence of Minnesota, making the setting feel both inviting and eerily mysterious.
Jennifer Jill Araya’s narration is the icing on the cake, bringing each character to life with warmth and authenticity. Her performance, paired with Lourey’s tight, engaging story, makes June Bug an enjoyable mystery.
Overall, June Bug is a delightful blend of mystery, humor, and heart. If you enjoyed May Day, you’ll love this sequel even more. Lourey’s storytelling prowess combined with Jennifer Jill Araya’s superb narration creates an audiobook experience that is both entertaining and heartwarming. Whether you’re a cozy mystery aficionado or a suspense lover, this book has something for everyone. Dive into Battle Lake and join Mira on her latest adventure—you won’t be disappointed!
It’s super weird and awesome to have your local newspapers and area mentioned in a book set in Minnesota. But a welcome surprise at that.
4.25 out of 5 stars
June Bug by Jess Lourey, narrated by the talented Jennifer Jill Araya, is an absolute gem that sparkles with mystery and charm. Having just finished May Day, the first book in the Murder by Month Mystery series, I was eager to dive back into the quaint, quirky world of Battle Lake, Minnesota. Lourey’s ability to blend cozy mystery elements with gripping suspense is a true delight, and this book takes it up a notch.
The story kicks off with Mira James, our intrepid part-time reporter, who finds herself caught up in a local treasure hunt. What starts as a fun summer escapade quickly turns into a high-stakes adventure when Mira discovers more than just a faux diamond at the bottom of Whiskey Lake.
Lourey’s knack for creating a comfortable yet thrilling atmosphere shines through as Mira unravels a puzzle that spans decades, all while dodging a menacing figure from her past. The balance of “oh no, what’s going to happen” mixed with that cozy “everything will hopefully be okay” charm kept me hooked from start to finish.
What makes this series truly special is the return of Mira James. Her character is hilariously relatable, especially when her love interest is around, transforming her into a lovable, tongue-tied puddle.
Lourey’s writing also captures the essence of Minnesota, making the setting feel both inviting and eerily mysterious.
Jennifer Jill Araya’s narration is the icing on the cake, bringing each character to life with warmth and authenticity. Her performance, paired with Lourey’s tight, engaging story, makes June Bug an enjoyable mystery.
Overall, June Bug is a delightful blend of mystery, humor, and heart. If you enjoyed May Day, you’ll love this sequel even more. Lourey’s storytelling prowess combined with Jennifer Jill Araya’s superb narration creates an audiobook experience that is both entertaining and heartwarming. Whether you’re a cozy mystery aficionado or a suspense lover, this book has something for everyone. Dive into Battle Lake and join Mira on her latest adventure—you won’t be disappointed!
It’s super weird and awesome to have your local newspapers and area mentioned in a book set in Minnesota. But a welcome surprise at that.
Read
June 26, 2024Despite finding the MC unpleasant in the first book of the series, I decided to give the second one a try. Unfortunately, things only get worse. Mira is even more rude and off-putting in this book, treating most people around her badly and looking down her nose at everyone. But there were also a few other things that really stuck in my craw.
One, does the author know how employment works… at all? Or particularly, what would actually be involved in running a library? Because it’s not just filing returned books and checking out new ones, although that seems to be all Mira does. Oh, right, and despite being a new employee of one month, she also hires an assistant. Because that would happen.
Two, does she know how time works? Mira does more things in one day than I manage all week.
Three, and the most frustrating, was how passive Mira is. She is physically assaulted on multiple occasions, and she just takes it. Not a thought to fight back, to say something, to yell for help, to go to the police, to scream, to protest. Now maybe if this was addressed in some fashion it could have made sense – like if she had some trauma in her past or what-have-you that she was struggling to overcome – but no, the Mira in the book is all about female empowerment. Except when it comes to herself, apparently. So frustrating.
Most of the humor was pretty crude, and the mystery was a bit ridiculous, especially the resolution. On the plus side, the secondary character of Jed, a stoner who is always happy, was a breath of fresh air from all the negativity of the main character.
One, does the author know how employment works… at all? Or particularly, what would actually be involved in running a library? Because it’s not just filing returned books and checking out new ones, although that seems to be all Mira does. Oh, right, and despite being a new employee of one month, she also hires an assistant. Because that would happen.
Two, does she know how time works? Mira does more things in one day than I manage all week.
Three, and the most frustrating, was how passive Mira is. She is physically assaulted on multiple occasions, and she just takes it. Not a thought to fight back, to say something, to yell for help, to go to the police, to scream, to protest. Now maybe if this was addressed in some fashion it could have made sense – like if she had some trauma in her past or what-have-you that she was struggling to overcome – but no, the Mira in the book is all about female empowerment. Except when it comes to herself, apparently. So frustrating.
Most of the humor was pretty crude, and the mystery was a bit ridiculous, especially the resolution. On the plus side, the secondary character of Jed, a stoner who is always happy, was a breath of fresh air from all the negativity of the main character.
May 30, 2024
Mira James is back in another Murder by Month book! I fell in love with her character in the introduction book, May Day. Now I find I adore her just a little more in this book. I feel like she is an old friend, who calls once a month to catch up.
Mira is a reporter/ librarian, and now a treasure hunter, lol. This girl has many tricks up her sleeve, and always surprises. Didn’t know she could scuba, especially since she’s in Minnesota. But I’m here for it. When she’s not diving for treasure, she’s finding bodies and trying not to get murdered. lol I love the trouble she gets into and her determination to get answers.
I laughed out loud a little too much, panicked in certain situations, and frantically page turned to see how this story was going to turn out. Now I’m ready for the next book!
Mira is a reporter/ librarian, and now a treasure hunter, lol. This girl has many tricks up her sleeve, and always surprises. Didn’t know she could scuba, especially since she’s in Minnesota. But I’m here for it. When she’s not diving for treasure, she’s finding bodies and trying not to get murdered. lol I love the trouble she gets into and her determination to get answers.
I laughed out loud a little too much, panicked in certain situations, and frantically page turned to see how this story was going to turn out. Now I’m ready for the next book!
June 8, 2025
And the friendship and adventures of Mrs. Berns truly begins in June Bug! The best cozy mystery duo!
Mira, still the murder magnet finds a false dead body this time while she is treasure hunting. What starts out as find a treasure for reward contest, turns into a whodunnit and a solving of a local historical legend.
Mira is one of my favorite amateur sleuths, a funny sense of humor, a little bit raunchy, full of midwest behaviors! She’s so relatable in her bumbling about life, and just lovable. You want to be her friend or her sister, her cheerleader!
Mira, still the murder magnet finds a false dead body this time while she is treasure hunting. What starts out as find a treasure for reward contest, turns into a whodunnit and a solving of a local historical legend.
Mira is one of my favorite amateur sleuths, a funny sense of humor, a little bit raunchy, full of midwest behaviors! She’s so relatable in her bumbling about life, and just lovable. You want to be her friend or her sister, her cheerleader!
July 29, 2024
The second book of the 'Murder by Month Romcom Mystery', 'June Bug' is yet another mystery, with our main girl finding herself in the middle of everything.
This time around, just like the main character, the story settles in the small town and gains those cozy mystery small town vibes.
The mystery was action packed as well.
This time around, just like the main character, the story settles in the small town and gains those cozy mystery small town vibes.
The mystery was action packed as well.
June 11, 2025
I really enjoy this series so far. Mira makes a great amateur detective. I love her wit and banter with people. I had trouble liking the other characters in this book. The plot felt a little short to me. I would’ve liked to have more. But I liked the twists at the end and didn’t see them coming. I overall enjoyed this book. It made me laugh a lot just like the first one!
April 27, 2025
This is my third book by Jess Lourey. I’m thrilled to see the reoccurrence of many of the same characters. And seeing their personalities continue to grow!! I’m looking forward to seeing what happens in the next book in the series!!
June 7, 2024
This book made me laugh out loud. The first book in the series was humorous, but this one topped it. I'm looking forward to reading the other 10 books in the series.
June 18, 2024
The second Mira James installment of Jess Lourey’s Murder of the Month series is delightfully quirky but lacks plot development. A great summer read with little challenge in the “Who done it?” aspect.
October 14, 2024
Another great book
This was really good. Took a few chapters to get going but really flew after that. Can't wait for the next one!
This was really good. Took a few chapters to get going but really flew after that. Can't wait for the next one!
November 5, 2024
Love the humor & mystery. A light but addictive read!
March 28, 2025
Ok continuation of this MN based mystery series, this one focusing on a long ago mystery of missing jewelry.
July 1, 2025
Two books in and I can already tell—May Day will probs be my fav, but this one still held its own! Same cozy, small-town mystery vibes with a super quick and easy pace (even though it took me all month because it was my “in-between books” read).
Mira continues to be super likable in this one! She’s the reason I’m sticking with this series but with all the relationships starting to take shape, I’m so ready to dive into July!
Mira continues to be super likable in this one! She’s the reason I’m sticking with this series but with all the relationships starting to take shape, I’m so ready to dive into July!
July 28, 2024
I would rate this one a 2.5 stars rounded up to 3 stars. I gave the first book in this series three stars as well, but that one I did like more. This one felt even more slight, but I did enjoy getting to know a bit more about Mira and the people of the town. It makes me feel like I'm watching a cozy television series where wacky things keep happening to Mira!
I was hoping this book would build a bit more on the whole mystery angle, but this also seems to be a story that is doing a lot of groundwork to set up where Mira lives now and who she is surrounded by. I just wanted a bit more from it. It is short though and I'm already reading the next one.
It was also a stretch to call it June Bug since june bugs don't really play into the story at all (one mention of one but it isn't related to the plot), but that's a minor quibble.
I was hoping this book would build a bit more on the whole mystery angle, but this also seems to be a story that is doing a lot of groundwork to set up where Mira lives now and who she is surrounded by. I just wanted a bit more from it. It is short though and I'm already reading the next one.
It was also a stretch to call it June Bug since june bugs don't really play into the story at all (one mention of one but it isn't related to the plot), but that's a minor quibble.
September 25, 2025
3.5 stars. This series is addicting!
June 19, 2015
This book is wrong on so many levels: 1) Mira James is surprised when a man climbs into bed with her but doesn't do anything but yell at him and even fixes him breakfast. 2) She goes diving alone and almost drowns when she gets tangled up in ropes. 3) She thinks it is OK to walk into a hotel room and search it without permission from either the guest or the owner. 4) She agrees to meet someone she doesn't know alone at midnight on the edge of a lake. I could go on. This book attempts to be witty and funny but falls flat. It is an OK read but the mystery isn't good and you know who did it and why so it is not a very interesting read. I won't waste my time on any of the others.
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August 31, 2010 I felt like I walked into a conversation already in progress with the start of this book. The heroine woke up early one morning and found a man in her bed. She wondered how he got there, and so did I. It was never really explained how this guy managed to get into this woman's trailer. Turns out she knew him from years before. She fed him food before he left. Then I find out this guy presumably would have raped her years earlier if he wasn't interrupted. Huh?? She fed him? Talked civilly with him?
Sorry, I want to read a story with a smart character, not a stupid doormat.
Sorry, I want to read a story with a smart character, not a stupid doormat.
June 28, 2024
I'd give it 0 stars if possible
The flippant descriptions of physical assault and sexual assault and the way the protagonist just accepted it in this book made me stop before I even got halfway. And I'm now soured on reading the rest of the series. DO BETTER JESS.
The flippant descriptions of physical assault and sexual assault and the way the protagonist just accepted it in this book made me stop before I even got halfway. And I'm now soured on reading the rest of the series. DO BETTER JESS.
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