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Jamie Quinn Mystery #5
Jeopardy in July
Old people were dying at an alarming rate at La Vida Boca, a posh assisted living facility in Boca Raton, Florida. With its sterling reputation, dedicated staff, and top-notch medical care, none of the deaths are considered suspicious, but when members of the poker club start to die under strange circumstances, attorney Jamie Quinn finds herself once again embroiled in a mystery. With help from her new friend, Jessie Sandler, and her favorite P.I., Duke Broussard, Jamie uncovers a crime that took place forty years earlier. Can she stop the killer in time? Or is she in danger of becoming the next victim?
220 pages, ebook
First published March 27, 2017
43 people are currently reading
198 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Venkataraman
25 books434 followersAward-winning author Barbara Venkataraman is an attorney and mediator specializing in family law. Her works include: "The Fight for Magicallus", a children's fantasy; "If you'd Just Listened to Me in the First Place", a humorous short story; and three books of humorous essays: "I'm Not Talking about You, Of Course," "A Trip to the Hardware Store & Other Calamities," and "A Smidge of Crazy", from her series, "Quirky Essays for Quirky People."
Her Jamie Quinn cozy mystery series includes: "Death by Didgeridoo", "The Case of the Killer Divorce", "Peril in the Park", "Engaged in Danger" and "Jeopardy in July".
Her newest book has just been released: "Accidental Activist: Justice for the Groveland Four", a memoir she co-authored with her son about lessons he learned while working to exonerate four men falsely convicted of a terrible crime in the Jim Crow South. All of her books are available on Amazon Kindle.
Her Jamie Quinn cozy mystery series includes: "Death by Didgeridoo", "The Case of the Killer Divorce", "Peril in the Park", "Engaged in Danger" and "Jeopardy in July".
Her newest book has just been released: "Accidental Activist: Justice for the Groveland Four", a memoir she co-authored with her son about lessons he learned while working to exonerate four men falsely convicted of a terrible crime in the Jim Crow South. All of her books are available on Amazon Kindle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 257 reviews
September 15, 2017
4 out of 5 stars to Barbara Venkataraman's Jeopardy in July, the fifth book in her Jamie Quinn mystery series. I'm starting to love this series! It's simple, direct and easy-to-read, but it makes for such a fun experience.
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Why This Book
The author and I connected months ago and I began reading her series. When the newest one came out, we chatted again and I was quick to jump on this read. I added it to TBR in late March when it was released and found myself propelling it to the must-read rather quickly. And I sat down at the end of my day today and finished it in less than 3 hours!
Overview of Story
Jamie Quinn has been a family law attorney for about ten years, growing tired of the boring cases that pass her desk. Though she’s had fun working on the unexpected murder cases over the last few years, those aren’t ones she comes across very often. And her boyfriend is stuck in Australia for a month longer than they expected, leaving her facing the world on her own. When she takes on some extra work at the local senior facility, providing advice about wills, inheritances and long-term care. But when something seems amiss with too many deaths at the facility, Jamie’s hot on the trail again.
South Florida. Forged paintings. An artist with a potential passion to do the right thing. Unfamiliar family connections. A mysterious flower that causes death, appearing as though it's a foaming mouth. And that’s just 1 of her newest cases. How will Jamie figure it all out? With the help of bestie Grace, and Grace’s state senate candidate boyfriend, who annoys the heck out of Jamie. As she gets closer to the clues, along with PI sidekick Duke, Jamie’s sure to find a future in crime fighting this time!
Approach & Style
Barbara Venkataraman's style is absolute ease. The main character is a fun and quirky lawyer, one who has a witty and snappy tongue, but always comes across as someone you wish you knew. The book has so much humor, it’s hard to stop giggling sometimes. It’s not all-out crazy laughter, but a subtle hint of “this chick is cool and I wanna know her” type humor. And her banter with her favorite PI, ladies’ man Duke Broussard, is dynamic. I love their scenes together, even if it’s not about the case. Long-term, I kinda want them to end up together.
I read this as an e-read on my iPad through Kindle. The point of view stays on Jamie the whole story, following her antics across her own family drama and her various cases. In this one, two of her cases collide when art forgery meets death at the senior care facility. Chapters are short, quick to ingest… always humorous… and they leave you constantly wanting to click forward to the next one. And the author publishes a few a year, which should be enough, but I’m always wanting more!
Strengths
Jamie’s a true heroine. She’s funny. She’s smart. Flawed. Tragic. Strong. And represents us all.
Duke’s such a hoot. He’s over-the-top and warrants a good slap in the face… or a little fun on the side… hard to tell sometimes.
The plot is straightforward, but has a few fun jaunts along the way. It is easy to follow, leaves you wanting to solve it on your own with all the information at your fingertips.
Jamie’s search for her own love and family hops along throughout the story, and with each of the five books, she gets a little closer. I love following this side-story.
Open Questions & Thoughts
I wish these were longer. Barbara Venkataraman's gonna hate me for saying this, but it always ends a little too soon. I wish the plots were a little more complex and a little longer, just to draw out the fun.
Jamie just falls into her situations all the time. I think it’s a good thing, but it can also be a problem... as in too coincidental; however, the way book 5 ends shows a lot of promise for changes to Jamie’s life that I think could be of a great benefit.
Final Thoughts
When I first started the series, I thought it had potential. As I read each story, my biggest concern was they were too short (about 200 pages). As I made the journey from book 1 thru book 5, I found myself really looking forward to reading each book. It’s an uncomplicated and focused read, taking you on a fun journey through a likable character’s personal and career growth. It’s not about how complex the plot is or how much the author can shock you. It’s just a good laugh-out-loud read for a few hours. And I’m quite fond of them!
About Me
For those new to me or my reviews... here's the scoop: I read A LOT. I write A LOT. And now I blog A LOT. First the book review goes on Goodreads, and then I send it on over to my WordPress blog at https://thisismytruthnow.com, where you'll also find TV & Film reviews, the revealing and introspective 365 Daily Challenge and lots of blogging about places I've visited all over the world! And you can find all my social media profiles to get the details on the who/what/when/where and my pictures. Thanks for stopping by!
[image error]
Why This Book
The author and I connected months ago and I began reading her series. When the newest one came out, we chatted again and I was quick to jump on this read. I added it to TBR in late March when it was released and found myself propelling it to the must-read rather quickly. And I sat down at the end of my day today and finished it in less than 3 hours!
Overview of Story
Jamie Quinn has been a family law attorney for about ten years, growing tired of the boring cases that pass her desk. Though she’s had fun working on the unexpected murder cases over the last few years, those aren’t ones she comes across very often. And her boyfriend is stuck in Australia for a month longer than they expected, leaving her facing the world on her own. When she takes on some extra work at the local senior facility, providing advice about wills, inheritances and long-term care. But when something seems amiss with too many deaths at the facility, Jamie’s hot on the trail again.
South Florida. Forged paintings. An artist with a potential passion to do the right thing. Unfamiliar family connections. A mysterious flower that causes death, appearing as though it's a foaming mouth. And that’s just 1 of her newest cases. How will Jamie figure it all out? With the help of bestie Grace, and Grace’s state senate candidate boyfriend, who annoys the heck out of Jamie. As she gets closer to the clues, along with PI sidekick Duke, Jamie’s sure to find a future in crime fighting this time!
Approach & Style
Barbara Venkataraman's style is absolute ease. The main character is a fun and quirky lawyer, one who has a witty and snappy tongue, but always comes across as someone you wish you knew. The book has so much humor, it’s hard to stop giggling sometimes. It’s not all-out crazy laughter, but a subtle hint of “this chick is cool and I wanna know her” type humor. And her banter with her favorite PI, ladies’ man Duke Broussard, is dynamic. I love their scenes together, even if it’s not about the case. Long-term, I kinda want them to end up together.
I read this as an e-read on my iPad through Kindle. The point of view stays on Jamie the whole story, following her antics across her own family drama and her various cases. In this one, two of her cases collide when art forgery meets death at the senior care facility. Chapters are short, quick to ingest… always humorous… and they leave you constantly wanting to click forward to the next one. And the author publishes a few a year, which should be enough, but I’m always wanting more!
Strengths
Jamie’s a true heroine. She’s funny. She’s smart. Flawed. Tragic. Strong. And represents us all.
Duke’s such a hoot. He’s over-the-top and warrants a good slap in the face… or a little fun on the side… hard to tell sometimes.
The plot is straightforward, but has a few fun jaunts along the way. It is easy to follow, leaves you wanting to solve it on your own with all the information at your fingertips.
Jamie’s search for her own love and family hops along throughout the story, and with each of the five books, she gets a little closer. I love following this side-story.
Open Questions & Thoughts
I wish these were longer. Barbara Venkataraman's gonna hate me for saying this, but it always ends a little too soon. I wish the plots were a little more complex and a little longer, just to draw out the fun.
Jamie just falls into her situations all the time. I think it’s a good thing, but it can also be a problem... as in too coincidental; however, the way book 5 ends shows a lot of promise for changes to Jamie’s life that I think could be of a great benefit.
Final Thoughts
When I first started the series, I thought it had potential. As I read each story, my biggest concern was they were too short (about 200 pages). As I made the journey from book 1 thru book 5, I found myself really looking forward to reading each book. It’s an uncomplicated and focused read, taking you on a fun journey through a likable character’s personal and career growth. It’s not about how complex the plot is or how much the author can shock you. It’s just a good laugh-out-loud read for a few hours. And I’m quite fond of them!
About Me
For those new to me or my reviews... here's the scoop: I read A LOT. I write A LOT. And now I blog A LOT. First the book review goes on Goodreads, and then I send it on over to my WordPress blog at https://thisismytruthnow.com, where you'll also find TV & Film reviews, the revealing and introspective 365 Daily Challenge and lots of blogging about places I've visited all over the world! And you can find all my social media profiles to get the details on the who/what/when/where and my pictures. Thanks for stopping by!
March 31, 2017
I really enjoy these Jamie Quinn stories. Jamie is a lawyer, but is still someone that I can relate to. She is someone that stands up for her beliefs, but also has her uncertainties concerning her personal life. The supporting characters are well written and very believable. This is really not like so many cozy mystery series where the stories are all the same, but the scene changes. All of the stories feel fresh and new. I have enjoyed everyone of the series and can't wait for the next one. I certainly do recommend this to everyone.
July 5, 2018
What an excellent book!! Jamie is one of those characters that you want to be friends with. I love her interactions with Duke the best. They have great chemistry. This book had one of those rare instances where you find yourself laughing and crying at the same time. Can't wait to see where Jamie goes next. I'm excited to tag along on her next adventure!
Reread July 2018 — With my favorite books I like to get them in different formats. So when This brilliant author gave me the opportunity to listen to the audio of this book I was so thrilled! It was so much fun to visit with Jamie and her cast of characters again.
Reread July 2018 — With my favorite books I like to get them in different formats. So when This brilliant author gave me the opportunity to listen to the audio of this book I was so thrilled! It was so much fun to visit with Jamie and her cast of characters again.
July 26, 2019
Fantastic Mystery With Our Favorite Lawyer In The Middle Of Everything!!
I love this story with Jamie Quinn, the series improves with every book!! Fun, quick and always finding herself in trouble, Jamie is still awaiting the return of boyfriend Kip. But she sure keeps busy!! She even stumbles across murder and mayhem in a long-term care facility!
These stories are easy to read and keep you laughing and crying throughout the story. Very enjoyable and I am excited for the next book out!!!
I love this story with Jamie Quinn, the series improves with every book!! Fun, quick and always finding herself in trouble, Jamie is still awaiting the return of boyfriend Kip. But she sure keeps busy!! She even stumbles across murder and mayhem in a long-term care facility!
These stories are easy to read and keep you laughing and crying throughout the story. Very enjoyable and I am excited for the next book out!!!
August 10, 2019
Jamie Quinn, Family Service lawyer and reluctant amateur detective, is such a rip. If you enjoy an intriguing cozy mystery mixed with great heart, good fun and crazy characters, this series is for you.
In this fifth outing of the series set in Hollywood, FL, Jamie gets involved with the residents of La Vida Boca, an assisted living facility. She has been called to help arrange the divorce of an elderly couple but as she arrives, the husband is being carried out and later dies. Deaths among the elderly are commonplace, but are they occurring a little too frequently here? Jamie and Private Investigator Duke Broussard are also working on a family's inheritance that includes a forged painting--is someone at La Vida Boca involved?
Meanwhile, Jamie's personal life is still in an uproar, with Kip talking about postponing his return home from a 3-month stint in Australia and there's more difficulties getting her Cuban father's visa approved. Keep the tissues handing for the ending!
Many thanks to author, Barbara Venkataraman, for the gift of this book and the previous four in the series as well. I've enjoyed getting to know Jamie and her friends and being a vicarious part of their hilarious adventures in these books.
In this fifth outing of the series set in Hollywood, FL, Jamie gets involved with the residents of La Vida Boca, an assisted living facility. She has been called to help arrange the divorce of an elderly couple but as she arrives, the husband is being carried out and later dies. Deaths among the elderly are commonplace, but are they occurring a little too frequently here? Jamie and Private Investigator Duke Broussard are also working on a family's inheritance that includes a forged painting--is someone at La Vida Boca involved?
Meanwhile, Jamie's personal life is still in an uproar, with Kip talking about postponing his return home from a 3-month stint in Australia and there's more difficulties getting her Cuban father's visa approved. Keep the tissues handing for the ending!
Many thanks to author, Barbara Venkataraman, for the gift of this book and the previous four in the series as well. I've enjoyed getting to know Jamie and her friends and being a vicarious part of their hilarious adventures in these books.
June 5, 2017
Attorney Jamie Quinn was at the retirement home, Vida la Boca to meet with an elderly couple when the ambulance arrived and hustled one of the residents to hospital. When Jamie discovered it was one of the couple she was due to meet, she was shocked. But worse was to come – the discovery of a piece of art which was forty years old suddenly turned out to be a forgery and tied into some of the residents.
Jamie knew she needed help and contacted the flamboyant Private Investigator, and good friend Duke Broussard who immediately began digging deeply. Between them and Jessie whose labradoodle Marley was a popular addition to the home, they started uncovering startling facts. Was someone killing residents of Vida la Boca? Jamie knew she needed to find the culprit before he struck again – but could she?
Jeopardy in July is another great cosy mystery in the Jamie Quinn series (#5) and I thoroughly enjoyed catching up with Jamie and Kip (though Kip was mostly on Skype this time), Duke, Grace and Nick once again. Author Barbara Venkataraman brings these characters to life with humour and wit, while solving mysteries. Highly recommended.
Jamie knew she needed help and contacted the flamboyant Private Investigator, and good friend Duke Broussard who immediately began digging deeply. Between them and Jessie whose labradoodle Marley was a popular addition to the home, they started uncovering startling facts. Was someone killing residents of Vida la Boca? Jamie knew she needed to find the culprit before he struck again – but could she?
Jeopardy in July is another great cosy mystery in the Jamie Quinn series (#5) and I thoroughly enjoyed catching up with Jamie and Kip (though Kip was mostly on Skype this time), Duke, Grace and Nick once again. Author Barbara Venkataraman brings these characters to life with humour and wit, while solving mysteries. Highly recommended.
February 15, 2018
Jamie is a family law attorney, and her current divorce case takes her to an assisted living facility. After visiting the facility and getting to know some of the people, Jamie takes a job there to lead seminars. The job is fairly simple, Jamie will host seminars and help the seniors with their legal paperwork, but, of course, nothing is as easy as it appears. As Jamie spends time with the seniors, she gets involved in a mystery of suspicious deaths and art forgery.
The 5th book in the Jamie Quinn mystery series. Jamie is an attorney that practices family law, but manages to occasionally find herself in the middle of a mystery. To help her solve the mysteries, she gets helps from an amusing cast of characters, primarily her best friend Grace and a private investigator, Duke.
This book brings back Jessie, a friend Jamie made in a previous book, but includes her bestie Grace and the odd, but lovable, Duke. I enjoy the recurring characters in this series. Jamie is fun, but her friends provide some real laugh out loud moments. Jamie's family drama continues, but takes a backseat to the other action.
My favorite Grace/Jamie interaction in this book:
"I was wondering -- do you want to check out a new brewery in Fort Lauderdale? They have games and food trucks."
"But do they have beer?" I joked.
"They have kegs and kegs of the stuff -- with flavors like coffee, and peanut butter and jelly."
"Call me old-fashioned," I said, "but I like beer-flavored beer. Do they have any of that?"
This made me laugh out loud because my husband and I enjoy visiting breweries and trying new beers, and we always make fun of the weird beers that breweries make nowadays. I'm with Jamie, I like beer-flavored beer.
The 5th book in the Jamie Quinn mystery series. Jamie is an attorney that practices family law, but manages to occasionally find herself in the middle of a mystery. To help her solve the mysteries, she gets helps from an amusing cast of characters, primarily her best friend Grace and a private investigator, Duke.
This book brings back Jessie, a friend Jamie made in a previous book, but includes her bestie Grace and the odd, but lovable, Duke. I enjoy the recurring characters in this series. Jamie is fun, but her friends provide some real laugh out loud moments. Jamie's family drama continues, but takes a backseat to the other action.
My favorite Grace/Jamie interaction in this book:
"I was wondering -- do you want to check out a new brewery in Fort Lauderdale? They have games and food trucks."
"But do they have beer?" I joked.
"They have kegs and kegs of the stuff -- with flavors like coffee, and peanut butter and jelly."
"Call me old-fashioned," I said, "but I like beer-flavored beer. Do they have any of that?"
This made me laugh out loud because my husband and I enjoy visiting breweries and trying new beers, and we always make fun of the weird beers that breweries make nowadays. I'm with Jamie, I like beer-flavored beer.
September 6, 2018
This is a great cozy mystery. Jamie continues to be likable and oh so easy for me to relate to! The writing is nicely paced and flows smoothly, and the plot is interesting. The author has a way of writing characters so there is something relatable to them, and they come alive on the page. If you have not yet read any of the Jamie Quinn books, now is the time! This is probably my favorite one and it did keep me guessing.
March 23, 2018
This book is the last one in the series and I do hope that this will only be temporary. I really would like to know what is going to happen in the rest of Jamie's life and which cases she will solve. She so puts a smile on my face.
If you would ask me to name my favourite one, it would be difficult to answer. It's true that sometimes you like a subject less, but that does not change the fact that the books are well written and a give you much pleasure reading them.
I can't thank Barbara enough for giving me the chance to read her books. I was nice getting to know both her and Jamie.
If you would ask me to name my favourite one, it would be difficult to answer. It's true that sometimes you like a subject less, but that does not change the fact that the books are well written and a give you much pleasure reading them.
I can't thank Barbara enough for giving me the chance to read her books. I was nice getting to know both her and Jamie.
October 15, 2021
Advance Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I love these books and, even though the plot is not very believable, I loved this one too. Just suspend your crack mystery brain and enjoy. Jamie is a fun character and the supporting cast is wonderful too. Jamie has a knack for getting into the most interesting situations and, somehow, getting out of them. This one is no different and the humor is great.
Jamie Quinn is approached by the son of a client she prepared a will for. He is seeking additional information about a particular asset, a very valuable piece of art, his father left specific instructions for. Turns out the painting is a forgery. Her latest divorce case involves a couple of octogenarians. If they can't make marriage work, who can? As she arrives at La Vida Boca, a high end retirement resort, she is greeted by an ambulance taking one of her clients to the hospital. Not a great start for this case. This, and other things, has Jamie rethinking her career choice as a Family Law attorney. Turns out the trail of the forged painting leads to La Vida Boca. Small world. Jamie loves a puzzle. Now all she has to do is assemble all the pieces and solve the mystery before all the people involved are dead.
I love these books and, even though the plot is not very believable, I loved this one too. Just suspend your crack mystery brain and enjoy. Jamie is a fun character and the supporting cast is wonderful too. Jamie has a knack for getting into the most interesting situations and, somehow, getting out of them. This one is no different and the humor is great.
Jamie Quinn is approached by the son of a client she prepared a will for. He is seeking additional information about a particular asset, a very valuable piece of art, his father left specific instructions for. Turns out the painting is a forgery. Her latest divorce case involves a couple of octogenarians. If they can't make marriage work, who can? As she arrives at La Vida Boca, a high end retirement resort, she is greeted by an ambulance taking one of her clients to the hospital. Not a great start for this case. This, and other things, has Jamie rethinking her career choice as a Family Law attorney. Turns out the trail of the forged painting leads to La Vida Boca. Small world. Jamie loves a puzzle. Now all she has to do is assemble all the pieces and solve the mystery before all the people involved are dead.
May 21, 2017
Fantastic
I can't believe how far Jamie has come. From the grieving daughter to an amazing woman. The feel good ending of this book had me in tears. An other fantastic book Barbara x
I can't believe how far Jamie has come. From the grieving daughter to an amazing woman. The feel good ending of this book had me in tears. An other fantastic book Barbara x
March 9, 2020
I was introduced to this series when I was gifted with the first four books in the series.
Jamie Quinn is a family law attorney but in these stories she is constantly being drawn into cases which have little or nothing to do with family law. All the stories have her good friend Grace, a fellow attorney who works in a separate and successful law firm, and Duke, a private eye who loves the ladies and whose divorce Jamie handled in the past. But he is grateful for that past help and they have become not only close friends but partners in solving the various crimes Jamie is tries to solve.
Grace's boyfriend, Nick, running for a state office, has a position as a frenemy to Jamie but has to salute her when in the end of the past cases she has come out smelling like a rose.
Then there is Jamie's personal life. Her father has still not cleared immigration to enter the USA. Her boyfriend, Kip, has sprung on her that he is off to Australia to help protect and save an endangered species. The time difference between their locations makes even keeping in tough difficult.
It is ironic that in this book Jamie goes to an assisted living facility to handle an uncontested divorce for an elderly couple. The husband dies before Jamie can even meet him. Jamie soon meets other characters living at this facility and learns about some "ancient" past events which were suspicious and/or never sorted out. Soon she is following twists and turns as she is drawn further in...by her own curiosity or by requests for her legal help.
It all revolves around a "fake" or "forged" Chagall painting.
I found this book slow at the beginning and stretching my mental facilities trying to remember who is who and what their connection was in the story. Sometimes I think I need a list of characters to consult when a story has this depth.
Jamie Quinn is a family law attorney but in these stories she is constantly being drawn into cases which have little or nothing to do with family law. All the stories have her good friend Grace, a fellow attorney who works in a separate and successful law firm, and Duke, a private eye who loves the ladies and whose divorce Jamie handled in the past. But he is grateful for that past help and they have become not only close friends but partners in solving the various crimes Jamie is tries to solve.
Grace's boyfriend, Nick, running for a state office, has a position as a frenemy to Jamie but has to salute her when in the end of the past cases she has come out smelling like a rose.
Then there is Jamie's personal life. Her father has still not cleared immigration to enter the USA. Her boyfriend, Kip, has sprung on her that he is off to Australia to help protect and save an endangered species. The time difference between their locations makes even keeping in tough difficult.
It is ironic that in this book Jamie goes to an assisted living facility to handle an uncontested divorce for an elderly couple. The husband dies before Jamie can even meet him. Jamie soon meets other characters living at this facility and learns about some "ancient" past events which were suspicious and/or never sorted out. Soon she is following twists and turns as she is drawn further in...by her own curiosity or by requests for her legal help.
It all revolves around a "fake" or "forged" Chagall painting.
I found this book slow at the beginning and stretching my mental facilities trying to remember who is who and what their connection was in the story. Sometimes I think I need a list of characters to consult when a story has this depth.
July 18, 2020
Jamie is a Family Law Attorney practicing in Hollywood, Florida. However, she is thinking that life as a divorce attorney is no fun and agrees to help out at an assisted living facility “La Vida Boca’ Perhaps she be a probate lawyer. Hmm, of course, someone dies and not from “Old Age. Trouble seems to follow Jamie. However she always has help of friends: Duke Broussard, Grace Anderson and her boyfriend and Jamie’s frenemy Nick Dimitropoulis all are recurring characters! …Lucky for us.
There is a mysterious berry from at La Vida Boca and causes death a sign is foaming at the mouth. Well there is more to this story than THAT!
Narrator Fay Annette does a great job in performing all the characters.
This story is more complicated than the other four I read. I like it the best. However, if you haven’t read any I believe you should read at least the first in the series. It is a quick read and will give you a background on the recurring characters.
There is no doubt you will like Jamie. She is bright and funny and yes a little flawed!
I am disappointed with this cozy having unnecessary nasty language. True the nasty language certainly is ‘little’ however; it bugs me since most just isn’t necessary.
But yes, of course, I am looking forward to see what troubles follow Jamie in “Book #6" !
I do want to thank author Barbara Venkataraman for this free copy of “Jamie Quinn Mystery Book #5" in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expresses in this review are entirely my own.
There is a mysterious berry from at La Vida Boca and causes death a sign is foaming at the mouth. Well there is more to this story than THAT!
Narrator Fay Annette does a great job in performing all the characters.
This story is more complicated than the other four I read. I like it the best. However, if you haven’t read any I believe you should read at least the first in the series. It is a quick read and will give you a background on the recurring characters.
There is no doubt you will like Jamie. She is bright and funny and yes a little flawed!
I am disappointed with this cozy having unnecessary nasty language. True the nasty language certainly is ‘little’ however; it bugs me since most just isn’t necessary.
But yes, of course, I am looking forward to see what troubles follow Jamie in “Book #6" !
I do want to thank author Barbara Venkataraman for this free copy of “Jamie Quinn Mystery Book #5" in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expresses in this review are entirely my own.
June 16, 2017
I think this one is my favorite yet. Set in a retirement home (named after a Ricky Martin song! love it!) and full of fun characters. Especially love the budding Grace/ Nick romance.
VERY impatient for the next one!! Write faster, please :-)
VERY impatient for the next one!! Write faster, please :-)
April 24, 2018
It is always so much fun to be involved with Jamie's lives - both personal and professional. She is a real character and invites you to all the fun drama!!
October 11, 2017
Another great addition to the series! Got lots of twists, turns, and mysteries to solve cuz it seems like most everyone is hiding something in this one!
June 29, 2021
I love Jamie Quinn ! I cannot put the books down but at times i have too because of life . All the characters and the plot everything is fantastic, I think it would be a great TV series ! I’m just trying to decide who should play duke 😜 back in the day James Garner comes to mind …now ?
May 2, 2017
“So, what's your story, Herb? You seem like an interesting guy."
Without missing a beat, he said: "Why, you writing a book? How about you make it a mystery and leave my chapter out."
Leave it to Jamie Quinn to take on a seemingly simple divorce case only to find herself embroiled in the middle of an art forgery scam and suspicious deaths… all while becoming part of all the hubbub of an assisted living facility!
“Hear that, Nick?" I smirked. "She needs my help."
He sighed. "We follow procedures and you stumble onto evidence and don't even know what you have. There's no justice.”
I loved this latest instalment of the Jamie Quinn Mysteries. Jamie continued to be the type of person I would love to have for a friend in real life. She’s a lawyer, though still hasn’t quite found a niche she enjoys. Why? Because she is a good and kind person and doesn’t want to practice law in a way that would hurt people.
“So the activities director, the pet therapist, and I agreed we would try to find out who she was talking about."
"Are you kidding me with this story?" Nick said. "Is this a Nancy Drew mystery or a plot from Scooby-Doo?”
Sounds like a joke, right? Well, as funny as that exchange was to read, (I couldn’t breathe I was laughing so hard) this was every day life for Jamie in Jeopardy in July. I loved how easily Jamie became a part of the lives of everyone at La Vida Boca. People can’t help but take to Jamie, with her no-nonsense attitude and “tell it like it is” tongue. She couldn’t seem to avoid getting mixed up in everyone else’s lives and problems, while solving a mystery or two along the way.
“Sylvia, I have this friend at the State Attorney's office, his name is Nick Dimitropoulos and he can help you with this. I'm sure he'll conduct a full investigation. Let me give you his private cell number. Do you have a pen?"
It was hard to write with Nick yelling in my ear, but somehow I managed.”
You don’t technically need to read the other books in this series in order to follow along, but I highly recommend it. It will give you a better understanding of how far Jamie has come and all the relationships she has developed along the way. It’s been great to watch her friendship with Duke form and her ‘frenemy’ relationship with Nick evolve along the way.
April 4, 2017
Summary:
With Kip still gone, Jamie takes on a side job doing a seminar at Vida la Boca, the local retirement home. When the residents start dying at alarming rates, Quinn finds herself in the middle of a mystery. A crime was committed forty years ago- a forged painting sold. This only came to light when the owner died, bequeathing the forgery to his children. But what if the sellers never knew it was forgery. It's one secret on top of another. How far will one person go to keep these secrets? Can Jamie and company stop the killer?
My thoughts:
I loved this book. Jamie was sweet and hilarious. I loved her interactions with Jess, Uncle Tommy, and Herb. I also loved the play between Quinn and the recurring characters like Duke, Gracie, and Nick. The story was fast and interesting, with enough twists to keep me guessing (though I sometimes wonder how hard that really is...). Still, I had a great time, and for me this is a five star book.
On the adult content scale, some lewd humor, language and mild violence. I give it a four.
With Kip still gone, Jamie takes on a side job doing a seminar at Vida la Boca, the local retirement home. When the residents start dying at alarming rates, Quinn finds herself in the middle of a mystery. A crime was committed forty years ago- a forged painting sold. This only came to light when the owner died, bequeathing the forgery to his children. But what if the sellers never knew it was forgery. It's one secret on top of another. How far will one person go to keep these secrets? Can Jamie and company stop the killer?
My thoughts:
I loved this book. Jamie was sweet and hilarious. I loved her interactions with Jess, Uncle Tommy, and Herb. I also loved the play between Quinn and the recurring characters like Duke, Gracie, and Nick. The story was fast and interesting, with enough twists to keep me guessing (though I sometimes wonder how hard that really is...). Still, I had a great time, and for me this is a five star book.
On the adult content scale, some lewd humor, language and mild violence. I give it a four.
May 22, 2021
Attorney Jamie Quinn is back with another exciting mystery. This one surrounds the residents at La Vida Boca, an assisted living facility in Boca Raton, Florida and missing artwork. One by one a small group of friends is killed. Jamie finds herself right in the middle of all of it. She calls her good P.I. friend Duke Broussard to lend a helping hand in this mystery.
Jamie has so many things going on in her life. She’s trying to establish a relationship with her long-lost father, she’s not quite sure about her boyfriend Kip and she has mixed emotions about her career. Her concerns are realistic and the author does a wonderful job of bringing Jamie’s emotions to life.
It’s a fast-pace story. I listened to the audiobook as I walked and it made for a delightful distraction. I really enjoy the author's smooth writing style. I, also, have to give a shout out to the narrator, Fay Annette. She is excellent. To me, she *is* Jamie Quinn. She has the perfect voice and tone for this role. The author gave us a surprising climax to the story with a big splashy ending that brought tears to my eyes.
I do enjoy my visits with Jamie and her cohorts. They always find themselves in the craziest situations. This is the 5th book in the Jamie Quinn series. Although the mystery aspect is contained in this story, there are some secondary storylines that carry through from book to book. The author does give you some background information sprinkled throughout the book, but I do believe it makes for a better reading experience to read the series in order.
I’m looking forward to the next entry into Jamie Quinn’s life.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free audio book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Jamie has so many things going on in her life. She’s trying to establish a relationship with her long-lost father, she’s not quite sure about her boyfriend Kip and she has mixed emotions about her career. Her concerns are realistic and the author does a wonderful job of bringing Jamie’s emotions to life.
It’s a fast-pace story. I listened to the audiobook as I walked and it made for a delightful distraction. I really enjoy the author's smooth writing style. I, also, have to give a shout out to the narrator, Fay Annette. She is excellent. To me, she *is* Jamie Quinn. She has the perfect voice and tone for this role. The author gave us a surprising climax to the story with a big splashy ending that brought tears to my eyes.
I do enjoy my visits with Jamie and her cohorts. They always find themselves in the craziest situations. This is the 5th book in the Jamie Quinn series. Although the mystery aspect is contained in this story, there are some secondary storylines that carry through from book to book. The author does give you some background information sprinkled throughout the book, but I do believe it makes for a better reading experience to read the series in order.
I’m looking forward to the next entry into Jamie Quinn’s life.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free audio book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 25, 2019
Book 5 of the Jamie Quinn series and it's a good one. I still love Jamie as a character. She's helping out at a senior living facility, trying to see if she could stop being a divorce attorney, and of course, death and mystery happens. There's also forged painting that she's got her PI friend, Duke, investigating. And as with these kinds of book, the painting is found tied into what's happening at the senior's home. I think this is the last book for this series. Overall, big thumbs-up to the whole series!
June 12, 2017
I truly enjoy reading the Jamie Quinn mysteries...this one was filled with mystery, humor and was a fun, fun read. With the help of her friends, Jamie solves the mystery and so much more...
I look forward to reading more by author Barbara Venkataraman!
I look forward to reading more by author Barbara Venkataraman!
September 10, 2018
Jeopardy in July #5 - The Jamie Quinn series is addicting. Sadly, I've reached the last book available at present, but I thoroughly enjoyed all five books. Again, this is a well written and intriguing story, with humor and multiple on going story lines. The main characters remain interesting with realistic dialog and behavior. You don't realize it by the relaxed writing style, but Jeopardy is fast paced and intriguing with good suspense.
Reading these books in order keeps the fabric of the stories intact and understandable. The author does a good job in highlighting past events without doing a Gabaldon-style rewrite, so you can still understand what's going on without having read the previous stories, but you miss so much. 4*
Jamie Quinn Mystery Collection: Box Set Books 1 - 3: I enjoyed these books by an author new to me. I had been collecting her books over the years and finally decided to read them. Entertaining and funny and good suspense are a few descriptors to pop into my head. The main characters are a perfect fit: two female lawyers (they're likable); one Cajun PI; and a couple of love interests. With each story, most of these characters grew more likable and complex. The other main characters are added as the stories go along. Grace and Duke are the perfect characters to make this series full of interest and humor.
There are many stories being followed along with the main plot. A continuous series that doesn't have any cliffhangers; just moves along a time line. The story lines hold the reader's interest and there's humor throughout the books. There's no crazy situations, like that lovable Plum character, but realistic happenings. There's no silly/stupid dialog or formulas, just plain entertainment. The writer's style is laid back, almost as if you're on the porch gossipin while sippin yur iced tea. Well written and quickly read, but still substantial enough to make reading these books worthwhile. Needs a little editing, but nothing that distracts from reading. 4*
Death by Didgeridoo #1 - This is my first read by this author and I like it. A good introduction to a few main characters of the series. Well written and easily read, fast paced and interesting; it was easy to sit down and finish quickly. All of the characters are likable, realistic and entertaining; think of Moonlighting for the humor and a male character. 4*
The Case of the Killer Divorce #2 - This story picks up about six months after where Didgeridoo finished. Well written with plenty of suspense, the reader can't help but enjoy the story. The humor is good and the characters keep developing. 4*
Peril in the Park #3 - This story picks up about six months later from the ending of Killer Divorce. Boy, there's a neat twist to one of on going the background stories! There's also a fun surprise involving someone's dad that makes the future books a must read; we know the ending to that story, but it's the path taken that interesting. Plenty of humor and everyone has more added to their characters/stories. 4*
Engaged in Danger #4 - Another good addition to the Jamie Quinn series. Well written, funny and intriguing, this suspense filled book with its well thought out, multiple and continuous story lines keeps the reader glued to the pages. There's a few kinks that the well developed, realistic characters handle, while their dialog is believable. The writing style is casual but entertaining. If you like Evanovich or Elmore, you'll enjoy Ms. Venkataraman. 4*
Reading these books in order keeps the fabric of the stories intact and understandable. The author does a good job in highlighting past events without doing a Gabaldon-style rewrite, so you can still understand what's going on without having read the previous stories, but you miss so much. 4*
Jamie Quinn Mystery Collection: Box Set Books 1 - 3: I enjoyed these books by an author new to me. I had been collecting her books over the years and finally decided to read them. Entertaining and funny and good suspense are a few descriptors to pop into my head. The main characters are a perfect fit: two female lawyers (they're likable); one Cajun PI; and a couple of love interests. With each story, most of these characters grew more likable and complex. The other main characters are added as the stories go along. Grace and Duke are the perfect characters to make this series full of interest and humor.
There are many stories being followed along with the main plot. A continuous series that doesn't have any cliffhangers; just moves along a time line. The story lines hold the reader's interest and there's humor throughout the books. There's no crazy situations, like that lovable Plum character, but realistic happenings. There's no silly/stupid dialog or formulas, just plain entertainment. The writer's style is laid back, almost as if you're on the porch gossipin while sippin yur iced tea. Well written and quickly read, but still substantial enough to make reading these books worthwhile. Needs a little editing, but nothing that distracts from reading. 4*
Death by Didgeridoo #1 - This is my first read by this author and I like it. A good introduction to a few main characters of the series. Well written and easily read, fast paced and interesting; it was easy to sit down and finish quickly. All of the characters are likable, realistic and entertaining; think of Moonlighting for the humor and a male character. 4*
The Case of the Killer Divorce #2 - This story picks up about six months after where Didgeridoo finished. Well written with plenty of suspense, the reader can't help but enjoy the story. The humor is good and the characters keep developing. 4*
Peril in the Park #3 - This story picks up about six months later from the ending of Killer Divorce. Boy, there's a neat twist to one of on going the background stories! There's also a fun surprise involving someone's dad that makes the future books a must read; we know the ending to that story, but it's the path taken that interesting. Plenty of humor and everyone has more added to their characters/stories. 4*
Engaged in Danger #4 - Another good addition to the Jamie Quinn series. Well written, funny and intriguing, this suspense filled book with its well thought out, multiple and continuous story lines keeps the reader glued to the pages. There's a few kinks that the well developed, realistic characters handle, while their dialog is believable. The writing style is casual but entertaining. If you like Evanovich or Elmore, you'll enjoy Ms. Venkataraman. 4*
May 7, 2020
When I read the firs book of Jamie Quinn Mystery, I wasn’t expecting much. The author is new to me and I rarely read cozy mysteries. But now I’m in the fifth book, Jeopardy in July and I can say, I really fall in love with the series.
I really like how the author weaves her stories. It’s like in the first half of the book, the author is setting a stage, introducing all the props that are all important once the main play starts. In Jeopardy in July, the author introduces lots of elements – the old people dying in La Vida Boca, the thing with the forged paintings, Jamie meeting new people. All of those make the reader keep guessing how they’re all connected. Because, as a fan of this series, I already expect them to be connected, but I need to know how they’re connected.
I just love it when stories keep me interested till the end. Jeopardy in July did the job well. It is engaging and entertaining. And once the connection between all the elements becomes clearer, I was nodding. Because I love how they’re connected. I mean, how on earth a forged painting is connected to a series of deaths in an assisted living facility? The reveals are amazing, and the journey before the reveals is smooth. I didn’t have any issues navigating through the plot, even though the said plot has lots of elements. Like I said, I love how this author weaves her stories.
As for the characters…I really like Jamie. I’m pretty sure I already said this in my past reviews, but she’s the kind of person I want to be friends with. She’s smart, funny and strong. But don’t think she’s perfect, she’s flawed just as you and I and that just makes me like her character more. I also love her wits, and she’s truly kind-hearted. Her relationship with all the people in her life is just so nice to read.
But really, my favorite thing about the characters, not just Jamie, is the way they make me feel as if I’m part of the story. Or more like I’m part of the community they’re part of. How good is that?
My only issue, (actually my issue in the whole series) is that I can’t help but feel like every story ends a little too fast. It’s like one minute, I’m still solving this mystery with Jamie and then after 3 chapters, it’s the ending already. This is really not a big issue and more like a me-thing. I just want more thrill and tension in the climax.
But aside from that, I really enjoyed this series. I hope the author write more about Jamie Quinn.
I really like how the author weaves her stories. It’s like in the first half of the book, the author is setting a stage, introducing all the props that are all important once the main play starts. In Jeopardy in July, the author introduces lots of elements – the old people dying in La Vida Boca, the thing with the forged paintings, Jamie meeting new people. All of those make the reader keep guessing how they’re all connected. Because, as a fan of this series, I already expect them to be connected, but I need to know how they’re connected.
I just love it when stories keep me interested till the end. Jeopardy in July did the job well. It is engaging and entertaining. And once the connection between all the elements becomes clearer, I was nodding. Because I love how they’re connected. I mean, how on earth a forged painting is connected to a series of deaths in an assisted living facility? The reveals are amazing, and the journey before the reveals is smooth. I didn’t have any issues navigating through the plot, even though the said plot has lots of elements. Like I said, I love how this author weaves her stories.
As for the characters…I really like Jamie. I’m pretty sure I already said this in my past reviews, but she’s the kind of person I want to be friends with. She’s smart, funny and strong. But don’t think she’s perfect, she’s flawed just as you and I and that just makes me like her character more. I also love her wits, and she’s truly kind-hearted. Her relationship with all the people in her life is just so nice to read.
But really, my favorite thing about the characters, not just Jamie, is the way they make me feel as if I’m part of the story. Or more like I’m part of the community they’re part of. How good is that?
My only issue, (actually my issue in the whole series) is that I can’t help but feel like every story ends a little too fast. It’s like one minute, I’m still solving this mystery with Jamie and then after 3 chapters, it’s the ending already. This is really not a big issue and more like a me-thing. I just want more thrill and tension in the climax.
But aside from that, I really enjoyed this series. I hope the author write more about Jamie Quinn.
April 22, 2017
"After we said our good-byes, I sat in front of the dark computer screen lost in thought. How had my dad managed to make me feel so loved and so rejected all in a span of fifteen minutes? I was on an emotional roller coaster that I didn't remember buying tickets for. Here he had the chance to meet his only child, the one he didn't even know he had, and he blew it. The men in my life were stressing me out and I wished I knew what to do about it."........
Attorney Jamie Quinn is back in this fifth book in the "Jamie Quinn Cozy Mystery." This story finds her investigating deaths at a local nursing home.
With colorful characters and even more colorful friends, like Duke, can Jamie solve the mystery of what is happening at "La Vida Boca?" She may put herself, and her friends in jeopardy, as she gets closer to the answers.
New friend, Jessie, is there to give her a hand. I love Duke. He's a one of a kind friend. Jessie is special in her own right. She is providing animal therapy to the nursing home residents, while Jamie is supposed to be providing a legal service to the residents. All is not what it seems. From mysterious deaths to a forged painting, there's a few mysteries to be solved.
The author has a great sense of humor. Jamie is a great character. It's a nice comfortable kind of book. I really enjoyed it. Some nice surprises. Some endings to some story lines that have been a common thread in the other books. Overall, an entertaining and fun, "who done it" book.
Thank you Barbara Venkataraman
Attorney Jamie Quinn is back in this fifth book in the "Jamie Quinn Cozy Mystery." This story finds her investigating deaths at a local nursing home.
With colorful characters and even more colorful friends, like Duke, can Jamie solve the mystery of what is happening at "La Vida Boca?" She may put herself, and her friends in jeopardy, as she gets closer to the answers.
New friend, Jessie, is there to give her a hand. I love Duke. He's a one of a kind friend. Jessie is special in her own right. She is providing animal therapy to the nursing home residents, while Jamie is supposed to be providing a legal service to the residents. All is not what it seems. From mysterious deaths to a forged painting, there's a few mysteries to be solved.
The author has a great sense of humor. Jamie is a great character. It's a nice comfortable kind of book. I really enjoyed it. Some nice surprises. Some endings to some story lines that have been a common thread in the other books. Overall, an entertaining and fun, "who done it" book.
Thank you Barbara Venkataraman
April 10, 2020
A fancy assisted living facility where Jamie takes on some extra work provides her with a new mystery to solve. Residents are dropping dead at a suspicious rate all of a sudden, and it might have something to do with a four decades old crime. With Duke's help, Jamie digs into the past, hoping to solve the case before someone else ends up dead.
Entertaining as ever - the mystery kept me guessing, and it's always great fun to spend some quality time with Jamie and friends. Some changes in both work and personal life are on the horizon for Jamie going into the next book, so I'm looking forward to seeing where the author takes her story from here.
Entertaining as ever - the mystery kept me guessing, and it's always great fun to spend some quality time with Jamie and friends. Some changes in both work and personal life are on the horizon for Jamie going into the next book, so I'm looking forward to seeing where the author takes her story from here.
June 30, 2019
Book 5 is just as exciting and fun as the previous books! Jamie's is looking for different things in her life, growing, just as we all do. A divorce consultation leads her to a new project which of course involves her in death and murder. Duke is back in fine flirting form. Her family and friends continue to add fun and challenges to her life. But best of all, the mysteries and murders create a puzzle that kept me reading late into the night. I love this series and recommend it highly for everyone who likes mysteries and cozy mysteries.
September 30, 2018
Jamie Quinn is looking for a new career path where she can help people make their lives easier while making her job easier. She thinks she has found the perfect job advising senior citizens at a retirement home when some of the men in a group of friends start to die. Jamie can't help letting herself get pulled into the investigation. In her regular legal practice, one of her client's has asked her to help find out about an art forgery that he inherited recently.
Following the trend with the previous books in the series, this book is an entertaining well written cozy. This is the 5th book in the series, but can definitely be enjoyed as a stand-alone mystery. Jamey is independent, intelligent, caring at the same time insecure and a pessimist especially when it comes to her closet relationships (Kip and her father). These characteristics make Jamey a very relatable and interesting protagonist. Several of the recurring secondary characters are very likable as well. The mystery is well crafted with twists and turns to keep the reader engaged and entertained.
I would recommend this book to mystery lovers, especially cozy mystery fans. I was given a copy of this book in hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced.
Following the trend with the previous books in the series, this book is an entertaining well written cozy. This is the 5th book in the series, but can definitely be enjoyed as a stand-alone mystery. Jamey is independent, intelligent, caring at the same time insecure and a pessimist especially when it comes to her closet relationships (Kip and her father). These characteristics make Jamey a very relatable and interesting protagonist. Several of the recurring secondary characters are very likable as well. The mystery is well crafted with twists and turns to keep the reader engaged and entertained.
I would recommend this book to mystery lovers, especially cozy mystery fans. I was given a copy of this book in hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced.
October 24, 2018
I think this is my favorite Jamie Quinn Mystery yet! Jamie is getting a little tired of her family law practice and looking for something to break up the monotony. She takes a side job at an assisted living facility helping the residents with forms like power of attorney. Little does she know that this will land her smack in the middle of a much bigger kind of case. Kip is still out of the country, so it is Jamie and her former client and PI Duke to solve the crime.
I love how the author keeps you laughing at and with Jamie in her adventures. Trouble seems to find her no matter what she is doing. Barbara keeps you guessing at the who done it right up to the end. There are references to things that happened in the former books but each story is complete and you can read as stand alones as well. If you are looking for a light, fun read grab a Jamie Quinn mystery and sit down for a laugh.
I love how the author keeps you laughing at and with Jamie in her adventures. Trouble seems to find her no matter what she is doing. Barbara keeps you guessing at the who done it right up to the end. There are references to things that happened in the former books but each story is complete and you can read as stand alones as well. If you are looking for a light, fun read grab a Jamie Quinn mystery and sit down for a laugh.
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