Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
FOR NEW ORLEANS STYLE MURDER—TAKE LAUGHS, TWISTS, MIX WELL, AND ADD A BELLE
Colleen Mooney keeps the twists coming as fast as the laughs in her third THIRD funny cozy starring Brandy Alexander, everybody’s idea of the perfect chick lit heroine. Brandy’s blonde, adorable, has a good job, two guys to choose from, and very possibly the poor judgment to pick the wrong one. (Half the fun’s watching to see if she’s ever going to wind up with the right guy for her.)The other half’s watching her life complicate itself in ways that would send the average female sleuth screaming into the night.
First, she witnesses a murder at a drive-through joint with the unlikely name of CLUCK IT—CHICKEN BY THE BUCKET. And then it turns out nothing at the scene’s what it seems—or at any rate, nobody’s what they seem. Seems CLUCK IT’s not just a place to clog your arteries, but also a transgender hangout. And with that discovery, you know you're in New Orleans. The local color never stops as Brandy’s complex Irish Channel family develops the kind of problem that’s a lot more fun on the page than in real life. What to do when your sister gets pregnant with one of the next-door twins who are also the brothers of your lifelong flame—but she doesn't know which twin? (Be glad it's Brandy’s problem, not yours.) She also finds a mysterious box of valuable jewelry under her closet floor, becomes the unofficial caretaker of the Tarot reader across the street who knows the future but can never predict when she’s going to get so drunk she’s going to fall into her own bushes, and develops a strong suspicion about one of her other neighbors, all the while juggling the two Romeos.
Good thing she’s better at solving mysteries than she is at wrangling her boyfriends.The reader can rest assured she’s eventually, and in fine style, going to weave together the myriad mysterious strands that confound the police (who happen to count Boy Friend # 1 among their ranks) and present them the solution with all the panache of an old-style detective like Hercule Poirot—yet none of the pretension. You can almost hear her wondering, “Did I do that?”
Fans of cozy mysteries and chick lit heroines will delight in Brandy’s flat-out lovability and Mooney’s almost offhand yet spot-on (and often hilarious) observations of everyday New Orleans life. If you like contemporary stylish heroines like those popularized by Janet Evanovich, Elaine Viets, Stephanie Bond, and Gemma Holliday, and humorous mysteries like those by Donna Andrews, Dorothy Cannell, and Lisa Lutz, you're going to get a girl-crush on Brandy Alexander.

328 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 7, 2017

453 people are currently reading
346 people want to read

About the author

Colleen Mooney

18 books148 followers
I was born, raised, and still live in New Orleans. I started going to parades and watched them from sitting on my Dad's shoulders before I could walk. I've been in Girl Scout parades, high school parades, St. Patrick's parades, Mardi Gras parades, on dance teams in parades and just about any loosely organized group who deemed it necessary to parade. I just can't help myself. I love parades.
I attended Loyola of the South here in New Orleans so I wouldn't be far from a parade.

I spent 20+ years working for and retired from AT&T. I have worked and lived in New York City, Madison, New Jersey, Atlanta, Georgia and Birmingham, Alabama returning home for the big parade every year--Mardi Gras. 


Before Katrina, I moved away and back three times, four if you count rebuilding the same house at the same address after Katrina flooded my home. I did miss a couple of parades that year.

I'm an avid sailor and Scuba diver for many years, and made lasting friendships from sailing and dive trips. I love travel and if the opportunity presents itself, I'm there. Except for a brief stint where I had to own and learn how to ride a motorcycle, I've been a water baby. When I am not enjoying fun with friends in all New Orleans has to offer- sailing and racing with friends on Lake Pontchartrain, Mardi Gras, parties and festivals- I head to Florida. 

I am an ardent animal lover and direct an all volunteer rescue group, Schnauzer Rescue of Louisiana. I love to write and I write about what I know and love! You can take the girl out of New Orleans, but it won’t be for long!

Dead & Breakfast, the second book in my series THE NEW ORLEANS GO CUP CHRONICLES placed in two categories in the 2014 SOLA Chapter of RWA's Dixie Kane contest for Short/Long Series for Contemporary fiction and for Single Title Contemporary fiction. My first book is RESCUED BY A KISS.

The third book in the series, Drive-Thru Murder is scheduled to be released in the fall 2016.

There's no place like New Orleans to have a good crime!

Feel free to email/contact me at colleen@colleenmooney.com, or my Facebook page, www.facebook.com/TheNewOrleansGoCupCh... my blog/website is http://www.colleenmooney.com

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
371 (57%)
4 stars
205 (31%)
3 stars
60 (9%)
2 stars
8 (1%)
1 star
5 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
Profile Image for Tamara.
Author 154 books459 followers
October 1, 2019
Humorous, Entertaining Mystery

Drive Thru Murder is the third book in The New Orleans Go Cup Chronicles by Colleen Mooney and can be read as a standalone, although I would recommend reading the first few books in the series because of the overlapping characters.

It’s moving day for Brandy Alexander, and at the end of the long day when she pulls up to a drive through window for food, the last thing she expects is to witness a murder.

What complicates the situation more is that her on again, off again love interest Dante is the detective on the case, and because of his hesitance to make a commitment, Brandy has been seeing someone new.
Both Dante and Jiff are both trying to help, and become entangled in the situation, but the more Dante tries to boss her around, the more she turns to Jiff, who’s tempted her with his fabulous kiss.

She’s caught up in unimaginable events, further muddling a life filled with funny characters and wacky family members, along with some Schnauzer rescues; the latest who complicates her life more, by rewarding her with a human leg bone he’s apparently discovered.

Fast-paced and entertaining and set in the city of New Orleans, it's a humorous, sexy mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end.

And it’s also a clean read!

I give the story five stars and I highly recommend it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Cherry London.
Author 1 book83 followers
May 6, 2018
Okay folks here is the thing I like the mystery and romance blend but I surely do not like a three-way split people, hello why don’t Brandy make-up her mind and kick Dante to the curb and just latch on to Jiff, although I prefer Dante but he seems to have some commitment issues or he just don’t know how to show his emotions. Jiff is a little too staid for my taste, but hey, he floats her boat. Imagine moving into your new apartment with your roommate and witnessing a drive-thru shooting and kidnapping, now that roommate has disappeared and you fear the worst when your dogs brought inside a bone from your backyard and not just any bone a human leg bone. A mystery book with a definite twist that puzzles and keeps you glued to its pages.
483 reviews86 followers
May 6, 2020
Brandy Alexander (yes that’s her real name) finds herself smack dab in the middle of another police investigation, or two. Being in the right place at the wrong time, Brandy witnesses a kidnapping and murder, and things spiral from there. Oh, and her personal life is in upheaval too!

Colleen Mooney has written another entertaining cozy mystery set in the streets of New Orleans. The characters are quirky, the setting is fabulous, and the mystery keeps you guessing.

Another well done narration by Alyson Krawchuk. No complaints here.

I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
Profile Image for Cheryl A..
305 reviews31 followers
July 31, 2021
Another really fun mystery/romance. I really love these stories as I can recognize locations in NOLA after having lived there over 5 years. I can hardly wait to start #4!
Profile Image for Kathleen.
1,846 reviews9 followers
October 25, 2020
I listened to the audiobook version of this story. This is the third book in the Go Cup Series. It can be read as a stand-a-lone. To get a full sense of the characters, I recommend starting from the beginning even though I jump around in this series. Each book of the series has the main mystery resolved before it ends.

I like the quirkiness of each book, the characters, and the interaction between Suzann and Brandy.
In this episode, the Cluck It robbery/murder and the found jewelry pose two mysteries to be solved.
I am hoping for an amicable resolution to the Jiff-Dante-Brandy triangle. Dante needs to open up to Brandy or maybe it’s too late. We’ll see as the series continues.

The narrator does a good job with it. The author infuses the book with humor which makes the story progress quickly. I have to agree that Brandy appears to be a magnet for trouble. I especially enjoyed the family drama and learning her sister is really manipulative. Not sure I would trade my reputation for a marriage proposal. This was very entertaining and kept me company on my daily walk.

I highly recommend this book and series.
113 reviews
January 23, 2020
I listened to the audiobook version of this story. This is the third book of the Go Cup Series and while it can be read as a stand-a-lone, I recommend starting with the first because while each mystery is resolved in each book, the personal story line of the main character, Brandy Alexander continues throughout. The book combines a little romance, mystery, and humor. In this book, Brandy Alexander witnesses a kidnapping at a drive thru and a resulting murder once again landing her smack dab in the middle of a murder investigation that her childhood friend, Dante has to investigate but Brandy, being Brandy, can't help but stick her nose in further and investigates on her own as well and assists in solving the crime. The narrator does a great job with making voices distinct and bringing the characters and story to life. I look forward to reading/listening to the next book of the series. I received a copy of the audiobook for free at my request and am leaving my honest review.
Profile Image for Ann.
1,117 reviews19 followers
August 30, 2020
Brandy always seemed to get involved in some sort of issue. Her boyfriend Dante, a cop kept telling her just stay away and stop getting involved with stuff. Well one nite she was hungry so decided to stop at a fast food place. While at the drive thru someone got shot and someone with a mini skirt on and heel went thru the take out window and pulled someone out and took off. So she called Dante. Then her and her friend move into a house across from Sandra the cat lady who always got drunk and fell in the bushes. Things started to added up after awhile but Dante didnt really listen to her. Then her room mate disappeared & Brandy go tired of waiting on Dante to propose to her. She started seeing Jiff a attorney , rich and gorgeous. She finds a box of jewelry in the floor of the house shes renting. Her dogs find a bone under her shed. A human bone. Who killed the lady who lived there before her? Come on Dante put it all together. Well who did she end up with Dante or Jiff?
2,000 reviews37 followers
January 15, 2020
I've come to expect Colleen Mooney's Brandy Alexander series to provide a great mystery story with quirky characters and all the laughs I can handle and this third story in the series didn't disappoint.
Brandy's moved into a new apartment with her stripper friend Suzanne and expected a more peaceful existence now that she's moved away from her family and Dante's, but a late night trip to a fast food chicken restaurant's drive-thru changes all that and lands her in the middle of a series of murders.
I love the characters, the NOLA setting and Brandy's unerring talent for finding herself in the middle of one disaster after another, both in her amateur sleuthing and her dysfunctional family life.
This one's definitely worth a read.
Profile Image for PJ Lea.
1,064 reviews
May 11, 2017
Brandy has a crazy family, no doubt about that, her love life isn't straight forward either. There is also the small matter of a murder to solve.
The story is a little confusing in places, though it does eventually become clear. The murder mystery aspect was good, it kept me guessing and interested in the outcome. The cast of characters was diverse and had someone for all tastes.
I did find her slack attitude to relationships off putting, especially the weekend away. It was not what I expected from this type of book, though it possibly won't concern other readers. Despite this it was a book I don't regret reading.

*I voluntarily read and reviewed this book, my opinions are my own*
74 reviews3 followers
July 18, 2017
Brandy's back and still finding trouble!

When Brandy Alexander pulls up to a drive through window, she expects to order food, not a fatality. New Orleans and her crazy characters form the backdrop for Colleen Mooney's latest mystery, as Brandy copes with the two men in her life, a new residence and a sister's upcoming shotgun nuptials. Join the fun in the latest edition of the Go-Cup Chronicles. The story is fun and funny, with with moments of sheer panic (sounds like driving the Huey P. Long Bridge at rush hour, doesn't it?). If you like NOLA, mysteries and eccentric characters, you'll love Drive Thru Murder.
Profile Image for Susan Keene.
Author 30 books56 followers
May 2, 2022
My review for The Drive by Murder by Colleen Mooney.
Although Drive by Murder is the third book in a series, I thought it read very well as a standalone.
As with most series, the characters become deeper and more developed with each book, so I will go back and read the first two in the series.
From the time Brandy witnesses a murder while in a drive thru, until the end; the book moves at pace that makes you want to skip your chores and read all day.
Mooney's characters have depth and humor.
Brandy's romantic triangle with Dante and Jiff adds another spark to the story.
I highly recommend this book.
47 reviews
October 21, 2018
An OK read

The story took forever before it actually got moving, so I had to deduct one star for that.

The writing style was clumsy at best and on occasions the text was non-sensical, so I had to remove one star for that.

I almost removed another point for the main female character whose was unbearably obtuse about the men in her life. Luckily she finally came to her senses, so that saved one star.

Thus the rating is three stars and not two. I shan't bother reading any other books from this author.
23 reviews
February 8, 2018
Essence of New Orleans in a complex mystery

Colleen Mooney is a true New Orleanian, interesting into her story the essence of this beautiful quirky city. Writing is excellent, developing her characters and plot in a most beguiling manner. The story is filled with twists that keep you guessing to the end. I look forward to reading book 4 in the series when it is published. Highly recommend!
486 reviews2 followers
March 4, 2018
Brandy Alexander

There's a murder and a kidnapping at a drive-thru restaurant. And of course, Brandy Alexander is right there to witness it. In the most of solving this crime, other things are going on. Like, moving to a new house, Brandy's sister getting pregnant and trying to figure out which of the two men in her life, she wants to keep seeing. My favorite part of the book is the family dinner. Hilarious!
414 reviews1 follower
May 29, 2018
Murder and more....

Brandy stops to get something to eat after dropping her roommate Suzanne off at work and witnesses a murder at a a drive thru. Only there is more to it.

Come join Brandy as she tries to help her childhood sweetheart, Dante, solve the crime, deal with her sister's pregnancy, finding out where the tenant that lived in the apartment before her is and which of the two men she is in love with she wants to be with. Full of adventure and humor.

Jo-Ann Doyle
405 reviews
September 27, 2018
Really interesting read

I received this book free from one of the book sites. I do not remember which one! This is my honest review.
Another New Orleans winner! Things are heating up in the south, Dante is out & Jiff is in? What's the connection.
What about the nutsy neighbor that nose dives off her porch a few times a week? Who killed Jimmie at Cluck It by the Bucket?
Murder is going down in New Orleans & you don't want to miss this one.
Recommended by me!
863 reviews4 followers
November 11, 2018
Wow!!! Just finished it! Full of excitement, fun and mayhem, loved it! It is the 3rd one so far, they just get better! Lots of surprises! Small world, I don't think Dante will ever have time for Brandy! looks like Jif is going to end up with her! This one will keep you guessing til the end, can't wait to read the next. They are so real you feel like family! Truly hooked on this series!

Profile Image for Susan Clark.
549 reviews2 followers
July 14, 2022
So far, this is my favorite book in this extraordinarily wonderful series. Mooney starts us off with a “BANG!”, pardon the pun, and keeps us so intrigued that all we want to do is to keep reading. Mystery and pacing are perfect. Characters are all believable. Scenes with Brandy’s mother leave scars even on readers. There is one point that is more important than ALL of the others: READ THESE BOOKS IN ORDER. You will enjoy them far more. Excellent book
543 reviews3 followers
March 1, 2018
Wicked good fun

This series is just too fun, being set in New Orleans is perfect. Lacey gets involved in murders and mayhem with each book. While this could be read as a stand alone. I recommend reading the series in order for the backstories. Just downloaded book four, can't wait to see what she gets involved in this time.
Profile Image for Barbara.
30 reviews
June 24, 2018
Loved, Loved, Loved It!!!!

I thought this book was just as wonderful as the very first one! It lets you know what happens after the Martigra parade. To all that are involved. It made me think about Brandy's home life. It will keep you thinking you know what is going on until the very end!!
Profile Image for Barb.
1,547 reviews39 followers
January 17, 2019
There's a murder and a kidnapping at a drive-thru restaurant. Brandy Alexander is right there to witness it. In the most of solving this crime, other things are going on. Like, moving to a new house, Brandy's sister getting pregnant and trying to figure out which of the two men in her life, she wants to keep seeing.
865 reviews7 followers
September 16, 2019
This book had a different story line with a number of twists and turns. What can happen when you try to order late at night at a drive through restaurant for a quick snack. YOu might see something not meant for your eyes. Crazy neighbors galore make you keep turning pages. But I didn't like not knowing which beau our inquisitive lady decides to continue her future.
42 reviews2 followers
October 3, 2019
Super!

The Brandy Alexander books are fun to read. Colleen Mooney sets the scene and takes us off on an exciting journey all the way to the satisfying end. Both her characters and plot are are well-developed, and the setting of New Orleans is perfect for the development of her stories.
Profile Image for Michelle Ferrari-Johnson.
1,559 reviews39 followers
October 7, 2019
Sibling Terrors

Holy twisted murderers! There is so much happening in this book it will make your head spin! Thankfully, it all flows and makes sense the further along you get. The love triangle between Brandy, Jiff and Dante comes with some information from their past. On to book four as I try to piece it together~
11 reviews6 followers
November 4, 2019
I have read the previous 2 books in this series. I enjoyed them all. However, this one lost me a time or two with the plot. I am tired of the relationship triangle. I don't believe I will be reading any more in this series. I (not unlike Brandy) don't enjoy being strung along. And the details to Jiff's adoption circumstances are just unbelievable. Come on! No one looked for him?
Profile Image for Nola Arganbright.
1,592 reviews32 followers
November 22, 2019
I have to read this series

An extremely well written book that I just zoomed through it. Exciting with a strong plot and sub plots. Great characters that were very strong and well developed. Funny family drama, romance, suspense and brought to mind works by many of my favorite Cozy authors.
85 reviews
December 15, 2019
I love these ongoing stories

I think the attraction to this type of connected stories makes we readers wanting more to see how the romance ends. But then the p puzzles or crimes begin to stack up and they are quite compelling and confusing. All in all these are very entertaining!
Profile Image for Jana Gundy.
1,919 reviews17 followers
January 28, 2020
A complex and entertaining story

This isn’t your average fast cozy mystery at all. Brandy lives a very busy and complicated life but a very fulfilling one. She comes to a crossroads in her love life and I believe she made the perfect decision. The murder mysteries were very detailed and complex, which I love.
958 reviews2 followers
December 22, 2020
Brandy's in it again she watches a transgender guy being pull out of the drive thru window and another person being shot. Brandy has the ability to look at things and see the irregularities which Dante and the rest of the police dismiss. Her sister is pregnant by one of Dante's twin brothers. The marriage arrangements are a fiasco. What a fun read.
96 reviews
May 30, 2021
Great story

The characters in Drive Thru Murder are really interesting and believable. Brandy has a knack for being in the wrong place at the wrong time as well as knowing when something isn't right. The two men in her life are complete opposites . Dealing with witnessing a murder and the men in her life makes a very good read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews

Join the discussion

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.