Marsh Mystics: Miss Fortune Mysteries, Book 30

Miss Fortune Mystery #30

by Jana Deleon, Cassandra Campbell (Narrator)

Namaslay all day.

Yoga retreats are supposed to have bodies…just not dead ones. But when Eleanor, the owner of the retreat, turns up dead, Ronald and Gertie know just who to call. Eleanor’s sister, Mildred, is convinced Eleanor’s shady business partner had something to do with her death, but there’s no evidence to prove it.

To add more limitations to the mix, Carter is being audited by the state police due to complaints concerning his conduct, with specific claims that he’s feeding Fortune confidential information. Swamp Team 3 fully intend to help Mildred find out what happened to her sister, but they’ll have to fly below radar to avoid risking Carter’s position as sheriff.

How far can they bend?

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Humor, Fiction, Audiobook, Ebooks, Contemporary

Audible Audio

Published July 21, 2026

About the author

New 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.

Reviews

[Anita · Rating 5 out of 5]

For Number Thirty Fortune and the gang get a locked room mystery to solve. Yeah, it could be a suicide but where's the fun in that. I don't get the name for this book; there is nothing about Mystics in it and the bear doesn't appear until about 75% into the story. Fortune and Carter have their share of problems and the tension between his job as sheriff and hers as a PI cause some difficulties. The story was a little slow in the beginning, but as Fortune digs in and begins to unravel things the pace picks up. These books are always fun, but this one ended on a bit of a downer.

Gertie and Ronald are at a yoga retreat and suddenly a gunshot rings out. Gertie and resort assistant Kim are first on the scene and discover the owner's cabin all locked up. After gaining entry Gertie finds the owner, Eleanor, dead. It looks like a suicide, but Eleanor wouldn't be anyone's nominee for suicidal. Gertie and Roland convince Mildred, Eleanor's sister, to call Fortune. As Fortune talks to the others at the retreat it seems no one liked Eleanor's business partner and yoga instructor, Zion. It appears there were some shady goings on happening.

Big problem is that it really looks like a suicide and Carter is being hounded by an audit being performed the nastiest state police officer who is nothing but a blowhard buffoon, but major comic relief. Carter has to keep the investigation by the book, but Fortune doesn't.

[Carolyn Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you aren’t reading the swamp team three series you’re missing something fun. Often with long running series, the books become stale and formulaic. Not the case here.

From the other reviews, you probably know the main characters, Fortune, the retired CIA operative along with her two senior cohorts Gertie and Ida Bell. This mystery focuses around a con man, the victim who becomes his accomplice and a surprise murderer or two. The author is known for her hilarious chaos scenes, for example, from an earlier book where a cat gets entangled in someone’s handbag and manages to discharge the weapon inside it multiple times while it tries to run across the backyard. There are fewer of those in this book than usual, but nevertheless a complicated and satisfying mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to the next one.

[Nancy Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was not a favorite. It started out slowly with a whole bunch of truly unlikeable characters and I'm sorry but the death was just flat out wrong. Women rarely shoot themselves and in the chest?? with the gun left off to the side? Implausible. Obviously she was shot. That drove me nuts. And burn those damn nun outfits. The only saving grace was that I was right about the killer in the end. But this really lacked in the key element that would make me pay $8 to read a book. Where was the joy? Not enough Gertie or Ronald--Callahan wasn't treated nearly badly enough. Some of the new characters have potential but I never want to hear about Mildred or Jasper again.

[Tom · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cozy‑chaos investigation set at a yoga retreat where the owner turns up dead, pushing Fortune, Ida Belle, and Gertie into a stealthy, high‑stakes case complicated by a state police audit targeting Carter.

A yoga retreat in Louisiana becomes the center of a suspicious death when Eleanor, the retreat’s owner, is found dead. Her sister Mildred believes Eleanor’s business partner is involved, but there’s no evidence to support the accusation. Ronald (Fortune's flamboyantly excentric next door neighbor) and Gertie who were staying at the resort call in Fortune, who quickly realizes this case requires Swamp Team 3 to operate under the radar. Carter, Sinful’s sheriff and Fortune's fiancée, is being audited by the state police, accused of feeding Fortune confidential information which means any overt investigation could jeopardize his job. The trio must investigate quietly, navigating retreat guests, shady financial dealings, and interpersonal tensions while keeping Carter safe. The mystery expands into a web of con‑artists, accomplices, and unexpected culprits, maintaining the series’ trademark humor and escalating chaos.

[Sue Ellen Melo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I pre-ordered this one and literally minutes after it hit my audible library I was returning to Sinful Louisiana for another case with Swamp team 3. This time, Ronald and Gerty’s yoga retreat weekend has come to a screeching hault when the owner of the retreat is discovered dead in the sana a gun lying by her side. At first blush, it looks like a suicide but the woman, Elenore, is not a person anyone would have thought would go down that path. Carter is limited in what kind of investigation he can perform as an audit has been ordered on him by the state police and the man performing it, Calahan is bucking to make a name for himself in this case and earn himself a promotion. Fortune has no such limitations. She, Idabel and Gerty soon zero in on Elenore’s business partner and the yoga instructor Zion as a suspect and the ladies go under cover as nuns in order to expose him for the fraudster he was. This book was more chuckle fest than laugh out loud funny but was still very satisfying. It took several turns before getting to where I thought it would and I totally enjoyed the ride. I really hope we haven’t seen the last of the barbies.

[MaKai Magie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always enjoy these books. They make me laugh and are a fun read. Lots of plot twists and wild adventures. I mostly read these between much heavier books.

[Short, Sweet and Cozy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marsh Mystics is the 30th (!) fun book in Jana DeLeon's Miss Fortune Mystery series and I haven't laughed this much in a while! Fortune Redding is a former CIA Assassin who now is a PI along with her friends Ida Belle and Gertie. Fortune is engaged to Sheriff Carter LeBlanc who is dealing with Lt. Calahan who is conducting an audit of the Sheriff's Department. Callahan is convinced Carter is providing Fortune with confidential information. Gertie and friend Ronald are at a yoga retreat when the owner Eleanor turns up dead which is labeled a suicide. Eleanor's sister Mildred is convinced Eleanor's business partner Zion was involved in her death. Zion has a retreat so Fortune, Ida Belle and Gertie go under cover to find out what he is up to. There are some funny moments! The humor is good and not as silly as in some of the books. It is just what I was in the mood for and I totally enjoyed it! The audiobook is well done.
#MarshMystics #MissFortuneMystery #J&RPublishing

[Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love this series, Gertie and Ronald go on a Yoga retreat. When Gertie hears a gun shot she runs to see what is happing and finds a dead body. She calls Fortune to come help so with the help of Ida Bell they look into what happened, lots of laughs. I listened to this book, Cassandra Campbell does a really good job narrating this series.

[Marsha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been a big fan of the Miss Fortune Mysteries for a long time. I love the characters and all of the shenanigans of the geriatric townspeople. However, for the past few books, the storyline is beginning to become a little too formulaic and relying less of the interactions of the characters I have grown to love.

I want to know more about Ally & her beau, I want more of the Hueberts, I want a scandal with Celia where she comes to Fortune and asks for her assistance. I want a new, creative storyline instead of outsiders coming to Sinful, getting killed and moving on to the next set of visitors and murders. I want a bigger storyline with Fortune and Carter.

If things don't start to change or improve; then, I do not think I will be continuing on with this series. It is losing it's edge and I am starting to lose interest. Sorry Ms. Leon but change is definitely needed!

[Wanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marsh Mystics really packed a punch!

What a great read. So full of humor, excitement and great plot with a twist. Well played. Jana’s books just keep taking her talent up more notches.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love this series

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Alex Major]

Good fun times!

[Traci Adkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

great read

Marsh Mystics Day by Jana DeLeon was such a fun and entertaining read. Jana DeLeon always does a great job blending humor, mystery, and quirky characters, and this book was no exception. The story kept me interested from beginning to end, with plenty of laughs, small-town charm, and twists that made it hard to put down.

The characters felt lively and memorable, and the dialogue was witty and engaging. I especially loved the atmosphere of the marsh setting—it added so much personality to the story. The balance between mystery and humor was perfect, and the pacing kept everything moving without feeling rushed.

Overall, this was a great book and one I thoroughly enjoyed. If you love cozy mysteries with humor, heart, and entertaining characters, this one is definitely worth reading.

[Lindsay T · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love this series but this book didn't do it for me. It started off really slow. I did enjoy the twist at the end but there was not nearly enough shenanigans. I miss Celia and the pudding races along with the trips to the Swamp Bar. Big, Little and Manny need to make more appearances. Where has Ally been? Give us some more Francis and Godzilla. I miss the old humor and hope the next book brings back some of these beloved characters.

[Books Data · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sinful, Louisiana, is never quite as peaceful as it seems, especially with former CIA assassin Fortune Redding hiding out there. Along with her best friends and partners in crime, the formidable senior citizens Ida Belle and Gertie, Fortune makes up the unofficial investigative group known as Swamp Team 3. They are used to finding trouble, or having trouble find them, but their latest adventure in Marsh Mystics brings a completely new kind of chaos to the sleepy bayou town. The town is introduced to the zen lifestyle when a new yoga retreat opens up, promising relaxation and inner peace. However, tranquility is the last thing on the menu when a dead body is discovered on the premises, quickly turning the retreat from a sanctuary of meditation into an active crime scene.

The victim is Eleanor, the owner of the newly established yoga retreat. At first glance, her death might seem like a tragic accident or a deeply unfortunate suicide, but those closest to her know better. Eleanor’s grieving sister, Mildred, is absolutely convinced that foul play is involved. Mildred points the finger squarely at Eleanor’s shady business partner, believing that greed and hidden financial swindles led to her sister's untimely demise. Unfortunately for Mildred, there is a distinct lack of hard evidence to support her claims. Desperate for answers and justice, Mildred reaches out to Ronald and Gertie, knowing exactly who to call when official channels hit a dead end. Once Swamp Team 3 is on the case, Fortune, Ida Belle, and Gertie are fully committed to uncovering the truth behind the yoga retreat's deceptive calm.

However, this investigation is fraught with much more risk than their usual escapades. The stakes are incredibly high, not just for the victim's family, but for Swamp Team 3 and their closest ally, local Sheriff Carter LeBlanc. Carter is currently facing a massive professional crisis. The state police have launched a full-scale audit and investigation into his conduct as sheriff. Anonymous complaints have been filed, explicitly claiming that Carter has been feeding confidential police information to Fortune and allowing her to interfere in official investigations. Because of this intense scrutiny, Carter’s job and reputation are hanging by a thread. If the state police catch Fortune and her friends poking around the yoga retreat murder, it will provide the exact proof they need to ruin Carter's career permanently.

This intense limitation forces Swamp Team 3 to operate entirely under the radar. They cannot rely on Carter for background checks, crime scene access, or official backup. Fortune, who usually utilizes her extensive CIA training in tandem with Carter's local authority, must now rely purely on stealth and the chaotic, albeit highly effective, undercover skills of Ida Belle and Gertie. The trio must infiltrate the yoga retreat, blending in with the health-conscious guests and spiritual gurus while secretly digging through financial records and searching for clues. The humor of the novel shines brightly here, as the image of the pragmatic Ida Belle and the eccentric Gertie trying to fit into a world of downward dogs, green smoothies, and crystal healing provides endless comedic relief amidst the tension.

As they dig deeper into the retreat's operations, Swamp Team 3 uncovers a tangled web of lies, financial swindles, and bitter resentments. Eleanor's shady business partner proves to be just as slippery and deceitful as Mildred suspected, hiding behind a facade of spiritual enlightenment while quietly draining the retreat's funds. The investigation reveals that Eleanor had likely discovered the embezzlement and was prepared to confront her partner, making her a prime target for murder. The suspect pool widens as Fortune and the ladies discover other disgruntled employees who might have had motives of their own. They carefully piece together the evidence, connecting the staged death scene to the financial motives hidden in the retreat's ledgers.

The climax of the story requires Fortune to use all of her tactical expertise to trap the killer without drawing the attention of the state police hovering over Carter. The ladies devise an elaborate and hilarious sting operation, using Gertie as a distraction in a way that only Gertie can pull off, complete with her signature wild antics and lack of filter. Through a mix of CIA precision and geriatric unpredictability, they manage to corner the shady business partner, forcing a confession and uncovering the definitive proof of the murder. They anonymously feed the neatly wrapped evidence to the authorities, ensuring that the killer is apprehended while keeping their own involvement invisible.

In the end, Swamp Team 3 successfully secures justice for Eleanor and brings peace of mind to Mildred, all without leaving a single fingerprint behind. More importantly, their stealthy operation ensures that Carter passes his state police audit with flying colors. By flying completely below the radar, Fortune protects the man she loves and secures his position as sheriff of Sinful. The story delivers the perfect blend of high-stakes mystery, clever detective work, and the laugh-out-loud humor that fans of the series expect. It highlights the unbreakable bond between Fortune, Ida Belle, and Gertie, proving once again that no matter how complex the murder, there is no problem that bayou ingenuity and friendship cannot solve.

[tina beckum · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hard read

I had a hard time reading this book. It just didnt grab me like Janas previous Miss Fortune books. I enjoy the town citizens being included in the storyline. I want more of Ally, Fannie, Big and Little, Emmaline and Alexander, Francie, even Ceila. At Least Harrison and Cassidy had their moment.
Also, time for the sheriff election, this has been going on too long

[Margaret Elizabeth Rose · Rating 1 out of 5]

Will update and rate once I read more than the synopsis. Which, considering how garbage and misogynistic this series has been since book 1, may not happen.

It's unfortunate that the synopsis opens with "Namaslay all day". It's very uncomfortable. And Carter being under investigation for misconduct and being accused of feeding Fortune confidential information just seems like exactly what he does to me, lol. It's a misstep to explore this plot, in my opinion, because the "cop love interest discusses the case with the main character" trope is such a mainstay of this genre.

Okay, I just started reading it. I might kick it over to DNF because I'm working on self-care. Fortune is still the "I'm Soooo Badass And Tough, Like A Man's Man, But I'm A Woman" Miss Congeniality caricature that she's been since book one. It seems so disproportionate, beyond parody. Miss Congeniality, but possessed by the soul of what conservatives think John Wayne is. It is so beyond I'm-not-like-other-girls that I can only assume she's an alien trying to do reverse psychology to convince people she's human.

"Gertie and Ronald went to a spa retreat. I didn't go. My idea of relaxation is a shower and a cold beer". When Carter mentions that yoga is great for fitness, balance, and exercise, Fortune jumps out of the hammock and throws a knife at his hand. After he jumps out of the way and asks what would have happened if he'd gotten hit, she says that she would have to cook their steaks tonight, because of course they're eating steaks. It's truly beyond parody at this point.

Zero character growth in the main character is such a series killer for me. Other examples of this are Siobhan O'Sullivan from the Irish Village mystery series and Tricia Miles from the Booktown mysteries. They're childish and incompetent (Siobhan) and petulant and judgemental (Tricia). Fortune is obnoxious and way too focused on appearing "badass" and Spartan.

Also, I don't agree with "spa retreat" and "yoga retreat" being used interchangeably. I picture two totally different things. Spas are all about mud baths, massages, and relaxation. Yoga (at least the Westernized version) is about mindfulness, meditation and gentle exercise.

[Melody · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gertie goes on a yoga retreat to support an old family friend’s daughter. Things are ok at the retreat until one of the workers is not able to get the owner to answer the door of her cabin as there is a problem in the office. Gertie comes along and after looking at all locked windows, shoots the dead bolt off the door. The owner is found dead in her sauna of a self inflicted gun shot. The owners sister, who works there hires Fortune as the finds out the guy her sister is in business with stands to take possession of the site on the owners death. She has a feeling he is conman. So begins another investigation. Oh and Elia complained to the state police that Carter is talking police business with Fortune so a Guy from the state police is shadowing him. Another great adventure. But there is a twist at the end I didn’t see coming. Definitely a good red.

[Elisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

another fabulously hilarious story.

Some authors write so well you just have to sit back after finishing a book and truly admire their smooth blend of mystery, adventure, action, intrigue and hilarity, it’s a rare author in my experience who blends it all seemlesly each and v.
Book 30 in the Miss Fortune Mysterious was everything and so much more in one story.
Fortune, Ida Belle and Gertie are back in action, there is yoga, questionable wardrobe choices, dynamite distractions and so very much more.
Carter has his work cut out for him with this mystery to solve because it’s definitely more than just a suicide, or is it?
What I always enjoy about this series is the reoccurring characters, how they’ve grown, changed and blended to make this series an all time favourite of mine.
I always excited to see what happens in Sinful next.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to my library for providing a copy.
I couldn’t wait to return to Sinful, and this installment was worth the wait! I loved how the Barbies were smarter than they appeared (and the fact they were nicknamed the Barbies). Gertie’s Gerties were hilarious; glitter bomb- enough said. Fortune’s CIA training was in full force.
The only down side was that Ally and Big and Little were just mentioned. I’d love for them to get more scenes- we really haven’t seen them in the last few books. Otherwise this was a great addition to the series!

There are mentions of stories from Fortune’s CIA past, including Fort Knox (in the last book) and Britney as an alias. I would love to read them someday.

[Starla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved It!

I have been a fan of Ms. Jana seldom since I stumbled across Louisiana Longshot. Her books are funny with enough sass to make them feel realistic. Her character development is top notch. My favorite series is this one. With this being the 30th book in this series her characters are still consistent in behavior with them evolving as anyone would as you get older. Her imagination is phenomenal! Get it's character alone will have you rolling on the floor laughing. The things she does is wild but so her. Read this series. And once you read all 30 books you will be so hooked on these characters you can read all of the Miss Fortune World/Universe books.

[Judith A Ford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marsh Mystics

I'm so glad there will be another Swamp Team 3 book coming coming this year. Jana keeps you guessing from the beginning of Marsh Mystics and then continues to layer incidents and probable villains to the end of the book. Each new chapter or two you're sure you know who killed the evil Eleanor, and just how Zion's deceptions will come to haunt him. Of course, there are lots of laughs thanks mostly to Gertie! The IA state trooper, Celia has riled up to audit the good sheriff, is a hilarious jerk. You'll love to see him get his shake down. In the end there is a big reveal you won't see coming! Enjoy!!

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very enjoyable with a ton of twists and turns that keep the mystery moving. There is quite a bit of investigation in this one, more than usual. Satisfactorily, Fortune with help from Gertie and Ida sets up a very suitable comeuppance for Callahan. That was good for a few laughs indeed. It was interesting to see how much Fortune worked around Carter's job to keep things as above board as possible. Of course, Carter ignores a few things also. The ending was quite interesting and it was very satisfying to get a strong closure on the whole mystery. So much fun and I look forward to the next book in the series.

[Angela Frank · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love these 3 ladies

The Swamp Team are near and dear to my heart. Fortune, Ida Belle and Gertie have been apart of my world for years. This story unfolds around Eleanor's apparent suicide. Eleanor's sister Mildred wants them to figure out what truly happened. As they begin to investigate, they learn that Eleanor's husband and mother both died recently. Something seems off and answers were not easily found. With Carter being investigated by the State Police, Fortune had to really be careful with her investigation. This was a fun read! Favorite Moment: pink glitter bombing of a truck!

[Dallass · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love this series, however as I was reading this I just found that I wasn’t as enthused about the story as usual. Perhaps it was the mystery itself (or at least the retreat segment), or maybe the lack of Celia front and centre as a source of entertainment and ire, or not seeing all the usual suspects (I do love it when the story stays in Sinful), but I think it was a combination of all three. Now, that’s not to say that this was a bad story, it’s just that it didn’t hit that sweet spot that I enjoy so much. Can’t wait to see what happens in the next book.

3.75 stars

[John Belcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes the Unlawful Thing is the Correct Thing to Do

Mildred and Jasper were both forced into doing something that because of others deception and lies was illegal. Callahan was so full of himself, that he couldn't tell right from wrong, causing untold grief on everyone around him especially Carter by hindering his progress in solving the case. I was captured by this story line more so than any previous books. Jana does a masterful job of weaving the narrative to hold and excite any readers interest. This is a definite five-star book.

[JoAn · Rating 5 out of 5]

As usual I laughed till I cried while reading this book. The banter between Gertie and Ida Belle is always worth reading. This mystery was really complex; and I never guessed where the new twist or turn would take me. The pacing was excellent and I resisted real life calling so I could keep turning the pages. Gertie had her moments but that's the norm for one of the Miss Fortune novels but always welcome when it happens. This book may be #30 in the series, but the story is as fresh and entertaining as all of the previous ones in the series.

[Garnet Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Swamp team 3 gets to investigate a possible suicide involving a scammer targeting vulnerable women

Gertie and Ronald attend a yoga retreat led by Zion when one of the property owners supposedly dies by suicide in a dead bolted sauna. Swamp team 3 tries to figure out if Zion caused Eleanor's death but lots of questions pop up. They know Zion is a scammer and need to get the evidence to prove it. Lots of twists and turns and a great ending. Glad another book is in the works. This series is quite awesome!

[Carie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Excellent Read!

Once more Jana DeLeon serves up a Fortune Redding, Gertie, & Ida Bell mystery. This one complete with a dead-bolted door!

Per usual, there is evil as well as: twists & turns, VERY unexpected allies, & laugh-out-loud humor (some courtesy of, of course, Gertie herself!)

WARNING: Don't not begin without allotting enough time to finish! VERY difficult to put down. Even if you have suspicions about one part of the ending, keep reading; there is another surprise ending. Also, the writing is so good; you don't want to deny yourself!