Home of the Happy: A Murder on the Cajun Prairie – The National Bestselling True Crime Memoir of Family Secrets, Wrongful Conviction, and Justice in Louisiana

by Jordan LaHaye Fontenot

NATIONAL BESTSELLER

"Riveting and atmospheric, Home of the Happy is also a heartfelt grappling with a trauma in the author’s family and her attempts to unravel its secrets once and for all. LaHaye Fontenot’s writing is urgent, fueled not just by a desire for justice but by love for her ancestors and the Cajun community of south Louisiana. A must-read for true crime and mystery fans."— Ana Reyes, New York Times bestselling author of The House in the Pines

On January 16, 1983, Aubrey LaHaye’s body was found floating in the Bayou Nezpique. His kidnapping ten days before sparked “the biggest manhunt in the history of Evangeline Parish.” But his descendants would hear the story as lore, in whispers of the dreadful day the FBI landed a helicopter in the family’s front lawn and set out on horseback to search for the seventy-year-old banker.

Decades later, Aubrey’s great-granddaughter Jordan LaHaye Fontenot asked her father, the parish urologist, to tell the full story. He revealed that to this day, every few months, one of his patients will bring up his grandfather’s murder, and the man accused of killing him, John Brady Balfa, who remains at the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola serving a life sentence. They’ll say, in so many “Dr. Marcel, I really don’t think that Balfa boy killed your granddaddy.” 

For readers of Maggie Nelson’s The Red Parts and Emma Copley Eisenberg's The Third Rainbow Girl, Home of the Happy unravels the layers of suffering borne of this brutal crime—and investigates the mysteries that linger beneath generations of silence. Is it possible that an innocent man languishes in prison, still, wrongly convicted of murdering the author’s great-grandfather? 

Genres: True Crime, Nonfiction, Memoir, Audiobook, Crime, Mystery, History

336 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 1, 2025

About the author

Jordan LaHaye Fontenot’s work has appeared in Oxford American, Atlas Obscura, and others. The managing editor of Country Roads magazine, she lives in Lafayette, Louisiana. Home of the Happy is her first book.

Reviews

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of, Home of the Happy, by Jordan Lahaye Fontenot, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. In Louisiana in 1983 a body was found, Aubrey LaHaye's body. Jordan LaHaye Fontenot, had questions about her grandfathers murder. This was a n interesting read, but im still left with questions not answered.

[Marcellus Lahaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully brutal!
A story of how tragedy affects so many and of our human need for the truth and for closure.This writer tells this story with input from all who were touched by this horrific event. But, this book is really about its author ,Jordan, who shares so generously,in every line,her own heart, spirt,and truth!
Loved It!
Dad

(Pre released copy)

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

True-Crime Lovers:
The way in which this book is written, I can already picture the screen-play. This book is so rich in details, it's truly incredible that the author was not there to witness the happening of this story in which she writes so carefully and vibrantly.
Not only was I fully wrapped in the case as she lays it out so meticulously for you, but the ode to her family and where she grew up, had me feeling nostalgic towards my own family and hometown. Seriously, I feel like I need to call my mom, dad, Pappy and just listen to their stories.
In all, this book was beautifully written, and had me hooked from the first page--holding on to each detail as she wove the tale of the kidnapping, murder, and all that was to follow.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

HOME OF THE HAPPY: A Murder on the Cajun Prairie
By Jordan LaHaye Fontenot

Reading by: Christine Lakin was very well done.

A journey of reinvestigating a kidnapping and murder in 1983 and interwoven with Louisiana history.

Jordan LaHaye Fontenot’s great-grandfather was kidnapped and murdered in Mamou, Louisiana in 1983. This impacted her family deeply, as well as, many in her hometown. Jordan tells this tragic story from when her great-grandfather was kidnapped, the ten days of the search and FBI investigations, before his body was found floating in the Bayou Nezpique. She tells of the trial and conviction of, John Brady Balfa. As a journalist, Jordan LaHaye Fontenot, wants to get all the facts and has done extensive research on this.

I can only imagine how difficult it was for this young journalist and author to be objective against her responsibility to family. “Yes, Home of the Happy is a book about a murder. But it’s also a memoir—the story of a family and of a place, and of the culture that defines both.” From Country Roads Magazine

This debut book/memoir was heartfelt and the rawness and openness of her storytelling was impressive. Her writing is so vivid, you see, feel and even smell the descriptions that she so skillfully has written. I look forward to what she writes next.

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperAudio Adult | HarperAudio for the audiobook

[Rebecca Kuhn · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite listens of the year. I can't wait to see this author at the Louisiana Book Festival.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I might not have read this book without being asked to moderate a panel on memoir for the Louisiana Book Festival this past Saturday (the other books for the panel were Firstborn Girls: A Memoir by Bernice L. McFadden and Split the Baby by Lauren Rhoades), and I’m grateful and honored that I had the opportunity. True crime is not my genre, but when it’s written as a memoir too, with such empathy and concern for all, and a willingness by the author to completely understand her family, it most certainly is my kind of reading.

(I read an uncorrected proof given to me by the Festival.)

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book because I too am from the Acadiana area. The story is interesting enough, but I sometimes found it hard to follow as it often is chronologically out of order. I also wasn't really happy with the fact that the case is still ongoing so the end of the book doesn't really wrap up anything at all. I am curious to see what eventually happens to John Brady Balfa.

[Alyssa Soileau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I’m in awe of the way the author pours her heart onto the pages but can also remain level headed enough to perform such an in depth investigation. The way she writes just pulls you right in. She had me constantly wanting to know more.

[Dawn Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very interesting deep-dive into the kidnapping and murder of the author's great-grandfather [Aubrey LaHaye, a banker and influential and beloved man in his community, who's body was eventually found in the Bayou Nezpique] and both the history BEFORE it happened [and boy was THIS interesting; I know little about the this part of the South and learning different things was absolutely fascinating] and the aftermath, which continues to this day, 40+ years later.

Filled with cohesive, exhaustive research, rich Southern history [so much learning!], an amazing family lineage, and a story that will just blow your socks off [and make you question everything, much like the author and her family STILL are] and leave you with massive book hangover and wanting just a little bit more.

Christine Lakin is a new-to-me narrator, but I hope that I get to listen to her again soon. This could not have been an easy book to narrate [with all the names, crazy pronunciations, and EMOTIONS!] and she handles it with east and a clear, uplifting voice. I highly recommend this audiobook.

Thank you to NetGalley, Jordan LaHaye Fontenot, Christine Lakin - Narrator, Mariner Books, and Harper Audio Adult for providing the eBook and audiobook ARC's in exchange for an honest review.

[Alexandra Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jordan LaHaye Fontenot’s Home of the Happy is a deeply moving and brilliantly written memoir that weaves the tragic and complex story of her great-grandfather’s murder into a rich tapestry of family history, local politics, and the haunting history of Louisiana's prison system. From the very first page, Jordan’s narrative captivated me, not just because of the emotional weight of the story, but because of the authenticity and rawness with which she tells it.

I appreciate that she expands the story beyond her personal experience to address broader themes—specifically, the Louisiana prison system and the political corruption that ran rampant through the state. She deftly provides a historical context that enriches the narrative, shedding light on systemic injustices that continue to affect communities today. Her ability to seamlessly incorporate these insights without losing the emotional core of her family's story speaks to her skill as a writer.

Jordan’s heart is evident in every page. She doesn’t just tell a story of loss and tragedy, but a story of resilience, community, and a deep-seated connection to a place. This is a book that can’t help but stay with you long after the final page.

[ClairevoyantBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fascinating blend of true crime and memoir as the author investigated the murder of her great-grandfather. The research was thorough and you could see how tough it was for Jordan to stay unbiased as this murder has had ripple effects on all of her family - most of them tragic.
I enjoyed listening to this one, but you really had to pay attention as there were so many characters introduced (i wish I had family trees of the LaHaye’s and Balfa’s) and the timeline was not linear. There was a LOT of side stories, and while all of them were important and added to the story, it made it harder to follow on audio (I do see that a supplemental PDF is included with the final audiobook, which I’m hoping will help with some of this), but otherwise I would recommend reading a physical copy of this one.
I especially appreciated the depth to which the corruption of the county was laid out, as well as the Louisiana prison system, especially the history of Angola.
While some questions about the case were answered, it felt like even more were brought up. I intend to follow this case to see if anything more comes of it with the books publication.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and HarperAudio for my advanced listening copy!

[Deity World · Rating 4 out of 5]

A mystery which is still yet unsolved and a man jailed but apparently innocent a must read for true crime lovers

[HailzXMcc · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is how true crime ought to be written. With so much care and humanity. While I still have questions, Jordan’s quest for answers kept me hooked. I absolutely recommend this one for fans of true crime and memoirs.

[Brandon Soileau · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author is such a talented writer!

[Melanie Vidrine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wondered if this book would be as good as I was told. It was. I wondered if I would like it only because I know so many of the people involved. I would like it no matter where I lived.

[Tiara Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a spellbinding memoir/true crime. The writer does an amazing job not in just taking the reader on a journey through the days after the murder of her great grandfather but also on her mission to find answers. I have never read a book that so seamlessly takes a reader through the past and into the future. Mid way into the book you find yourself also looking for answers for the murder and trying to predict what will happen next. The only problem with that is… it takes such a turn, you don't see the twist coming. This book is filled with just about anything you can think of when it comes to true crime books, a murder, a questionable conviction, and a quest for truth. When you pick this book up, be prepared to never want to put it down.

[Susy · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars
Very interesting story and yet it couldn't really hold my attention… A bit too long, too much info/details, and not well organised.

Topic 7
Writing Style 6
Execution/Pace 5
Execution/Setup 4
Enjoyment/Engrossment 4
Narration 6

[A Broken Zebra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to NETGALLEY and Mariner Books for eARC

Though this account is delivered with a deep dedication to accuracy and faithfulness, the book, at its heart, is my interpretation of the information as I uncovered it, and not intended to be a perfect representation of events as they occurred. The narrative follows my investigation of the 1983 murder of my great-grandfather, Aubrey LaHaye— a first-person narrative occasionally interspersed with scenes drawn from a past I was not present for. - Jordan LaHaye Fontenot

This emotional, raw, haunting, sad, triumphant, resilient, open memoir slash true-crime novel slash...IDK, geographical recount book? is so well done. I couldn't put it down, I just instantly fell in love with Jordan's writing style. So much so that I Googled her to start following her on things like LinkedIn, and bookmarked other things she wrote. I am crossing all appendages that we'll get to see more from her, be graced with more books (please?). As insanely detailed as she could do. I don't know if the final product will provide images, as my eARC didn't come with any, but I think they would compliment this book (not the gory sort, I mean the places she references, a certain item from the case, etc, not looking for salacious for the sake of vapors here). We get exposed to the Cajun culture and I highlighted so many things, from music to food to words. I loved it.

Back included a bibliography, much appreciated.

[Hannah's Biblioblurbs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aubrey LaHaye was a well known and highly respected figure in his hometown of Mamou, Louisiana. Having just retired from his banking career, he was ready to enjoy his days with his wife, Emily. On January 6, 1983 this would all change as Aubrey was abducted from his home in the early morning hours while his wife Emily was left tied up at their home. His body would be discovered 10 days later in a nearby Bayou.

The book is true crime told memoir style as it is written by the great granddaughter of Aubrey LaHaye. The author has clearly done her research as so much is covered in the book. From court reports to LaHaye family interviews to interviews of the family of the man who still sits in jail for the crime.

I listened to the audiobook and would give it 3/5 stars. Being from Louisiana, more specifically about 30 miles from where the murder took place, I am very picky when it comes to "Cajun" narration. While most things were pronounced correctly, the accents were off. The narrator sounded like traditional "Southern" (ie: Mississippi) rather than Louisiana Cajun. She also mispronounced a few major names/locations that were repeated throughout the story so it was hard to listen to. This probably would not bother someone not from the area if you do not know the pronunciations.

I love how personal the author gets. She shares many "side stories" that create that small town atmosphere. Understanding the culture around small town South Louisiana is important in feeling the impact a case like this can have on the town. The material was a bit hard to follow - I felt like the layout/timeline was chaotic. I wish it had been organized a little better. Though with the amount of information presented I'm sure it was difficult to find a "flow" for the layout. I really appreciated that the author did not seem to have much bias even though this was her family's story. I felt like she did her best to stay objective and open minded throughout her research. Overall a very interesting read that I would recommend to true crime fans.

Thanks to NetGalley, Jordan LaHaye Fontenot, and the publisher for the audiobook copy and chance to give my honest opinion!

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed this book for a few reasons. First and foremost, I also graduated from LSU’s English program, so in addition to feeling some sort of connection to the author through that, I also am familiar with a lot of the history, many of the locations, and some of the figures mentioned throughout the book. Safe to say I was super engaged for most of the story, and I learned a lot about a part of the country that I am familiar with and enjoy.

Secondly, Jordan’s writing is so beautifully haunting. She is able to tell this story with a ton of emotion, as it is her family history. This perspective really adds a layer of complexity to the story that you don’t get with most true crime novels. The storytelling is very well done, and provides a lot of clarity for the reader.

As with most nonfiction, there are times where it’s just plain dry. That’s not really a fault of Jordan’s, moreso the nature of the beast. I listened to the first half of this on audio, and I have to say, the narrator was excellent. Her accents and such were great. I have to wonder if I would have enjoyed everything a bit more if I’d finished it via listening. Alas! 3.5/5 rounded up

[Darcia Helle · Rating 5 out of 5]

HOME OF THE HAPPY is a fascinating combination of true crime and memoir.

The author's grandfather was murdered in murky circumstances back in 1983. She takes us along as she tries to unravel family secrets and small town gossip in her quest to find out what really happened.

The writing is engaging and immersive. This is a powerful look at the generational trauma of violent crime.

*Thanks to Mariner Books for the free copy!*

[Lulu]

Jordan LaHaye Fontenot's "Home of the Happy: A Murder on the Cajun Prairie" is a riveting blend of true crime and memoir, centered around the 1983 kidnapping and murder of her great-grandfather in Louisiana.

Fontenot crafts a narrative that’s as much about the mystery of the crime as it is an exploration of family, trauma, and the complex relationships within a tight-knit community. The story immediately grips with its mix of personal history and the haunting backdrop of the Cajun prairie, which feels alive in Fontenot's vivid descriptions.

The investigation into her great-grandfather’s murder and the questions surrounding the man convicted of the crime pull readers deep into a web of small-town secrets and a larger quest for justice. Fontenot’s meticulous research and personal reflections create a captivating and emotionally charged narrative.

"Home of the Happy" stands out in the true crime genre, offering more than just a murder mystery. It’s a meditation on identity, memory, and the way communities carry collective grief. Fontenot’s emotional depth and dedication to uncovering the truth make this a thought-provoking and unforgettable read. Fans of true crime and memoirs alike will find it both compelling and poignant.

[Dodi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jordan LaHaye Fontenot tells the richly detailed story of her great-grandfather's kidnapping and murder in Home of the Happy. Fontenot's emotional journey researching the crime embraces not only her Louisiana community, but also her family history. It's a fascinating comprehensive look at the crime, local politics, and Southern life.

[Melanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 It's fine. I was definitely interested and I really liked the storytelling-vibe of this true crime but in the end it sort of felt like an exercise in futility. Justice systems not working for reasons like this are sooo depressing to me.

[Abby Perrault · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very inciteful, thought provoking, and entertaining. Fun interesting read!

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Long and tedious.

[Denise Underwood-Hannagan · Rating 2 out of 5]

A bit of a slog with a very unsatisfying ending that wasn’t an ending. Add True Crime to the list of genres that aren’t my favorites.

[Ashley Dufrene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great read! I stayed up waaaaay too late several nights in a row because I just couldn’t put it down

[Molly Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

a love letter to Cajuns who are fascinated by true crime and family secrets. Literally all of my favorite things!

[Gail Faucheaux · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 only because of the narrator. If I would have read physical book, I would have enjoyed more. I too am from South Louisiana. The narrator murdered ( pardon the pun) the pronunciations of places and surnames, especially “ Acadiana” which was used a lot in the book. Each time, I cringed. She’s a great narrator. I’ve listed to other books she’s done, and it was enjoyable.

As for the book itself, the writing was fantastic. I felt the authors frustrations to my bones. I loved not only the story of her grandfather, but about her upbringing in south Louisiana, the Cajun traditions etc. I was also intrigued in the reference to the book “ Mississippi Mud”, which my bookclub read several years back.

I do prefer a more linear timeline and this book did jump back and forth. But I think for the effect of the story, it was a necessity.