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Lola Cruz Mystery #1
Living the Vida Lola
Meet Lola Cruz. After paying her dues as an intern, she's now a full-fledged detective at Camacho and Associates. Her boss is Manny Camacho, a "muy caliente" former cop with a mysterious ex-wife, a Lara Croft look-alike girlfriend, and a sudden personal interest in Lola. Her first big case? A missing mother who may not want to be found. And to make her already busy life even more complicated, Lola's helping her cousin plan her "quinceanera, "and battling her family and their old-fashioned views on women and careers. She's also reunited with the gorgeous Jack Callaghan, her high school crush whom she shamelessly tailed years ago and photographed doing the horizontal salsa with some other lucky girl.
Lola takes it all in stride, but when the subject of her search ends up dead, she realizes she has a lot more to worry about. Soon she finds herself wrapped up in the possibly shady practices of a tattoo parlor, local politics, and someone with serious---maybe deadly---road rage. To top it all off, her treasured postcoital pictures of Jack are missing! Still, Lola is well-equipped to handle these challenges. She's a black-belt in kung fu, and her body isn't her only weapon. She's got smarts, sass, and more tenacity than her Mexican mafioso-wannabe grandfather. A few of her famous margaritas don't hurt, either.
Debut author Misa Ramirez, a blond-haired, green-eyed gal with a passion for the Latino culture and authentic Mexican food, has penned a delicious mix of mystery, romance, and all-out fun. Filled with sizzling scenes and side-splitting humor, "Living the Vida Lola" is a thrilling ride that will have you up all night.
Lola takes it all in stride, but when the subject of her search ends up dead, she realizes she has a lot more to worry about. Soon she finds herself wrapped up in the possibly shady practices of a tattoo parlor, local politics, and someone with serious---maybe deadly---road rage. To top it all off, her treasured postcoital pictures of Jack are missing! Still, Lola is well-equipped to handle these challenges. She's a black-belt in kung fu, and her body isn't her only weapon. She's got smarts, sass, and more tenacity than her Mexican mafioso-wannabe grandfather. A few of her famous margaritas don't hurt, either.
Debut author Misa Ramirez, a blond-haired, green-eyed gal with a passion for the Latino culture and authentic Mexican food, has penned a delicious mix of mystery, romance, and all-out fun. Filled with sizzling scenes and side-splitting humor, "Living the Vida Lola" is a thrilling ride that will have you up all night.
304 pages, Paperback
First published January 8, 2008
149 people are currently reading
682 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Bourbon
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Melissa Bourbon is the national bestselling author of more than forty novels and nonfiction writing resource books. All of her books feature strong female and family relationships, bits of history, and lots of fun.
Melissa used to teach middle school English/Language Arts, but now she teaches creative writing to adults. She founded WriterSpark Academy, an online school for aspiring and new writers seeking to hone their craft.
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***
Melissa Bourbon is the national bestselling author of more than forty novels and nonfiction writing resource books. All of her books feature strong female and family relationships, bits of history, and lots of fun.
Melissa used to teach middle school English/Language Arts, but now she teaches creative writing to adults. She founded WriterSpark Academy, an online school for aspiring and new writers seeking to hone their craft.
Find me online!
Website:
http://melissabourbon.com
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/MelissaBourb... ArcherBooks
Goodreads:
https://bit.ly/MelissaOnGoodreads
Instagram:
http://instagram.com/bookishly_cozy
Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/melissabour...
Are you an aspiring writer? Learn about about WriterSpark Academy at www.writersparkacademy.com
For updates about my books and writing life, sign up for my newsletter on my website: http://melissabourbon.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
May 22, 2020
3.5 stars
A fast paced and interesting story but for my taste a little too much focused on the men around Lola.
A fast paced and interesting story but for my taste a little too much focused on the men around Lola.
August 12, 2020
A quick, somewhat light semi-cozy mystery with heavier romantic overtones than found in most cozies. Set in Sacramento, California, which is not a common mystery setting so it was nice to see that. The mc and her family are Mexican Americans, also not common in mysteries, and I enjoyed the interplay between the family members. I also enjoyed the Hispanic phrases thrown into the dialogue; it gave the story some extra flavor. The mc, who is a P.I., is dedicated and earnest about her profession, despite discouragement from her mother and others. Relentless, too, in her pursuit of the truth behind a local homicide. This was a good start to this older series, 3.5*
April 20, 2020
When I was fourteen years old, I snapped pictures of Jack Callaghan doing the horizontal salsa in the backseat of a car with Greta Pritchard.
Lola Cruz has wanted to be a private eye since she was a teenager. She is currently working for a small agency in her hometown of Sacramento, California. Am missing persons case she is working on becomes a murder and Lola is determined to find the killer.
This is an interesting take on the cozy genre since it is the main character's job to be a snoop. I enjoyed getting to know Lola as she works the case presented to her.
Lola has a large extended family who all think she should find a less dangerous job. She still lives at home although it is in an apartment that she shares with her older brother over her childhood home. Lola is inquisitive to a fault. A good trait for a private investigator. She is also tougher than she seems given the opportunity to prove herself.
Lola's childhood crush, Jack, is back in the picture. He is a reporter and gets caught up in the action of the case. I will be interested to see where their relationship goes.
The mystery was convoluted and involved shady dealings, questionable businesses and politics. I was a bit surprised by the culprit until everything came together.
This was an interesting start to the series and I look forward to learning more about Lola in the coming books.
3.5 stars
Lola Cruz has wanted to be a private eye since she was a teenager. She is currently working for a small agency in her hometown of Sacramento, California. Am missing persons case she is working on becomes a murder and Lola is determined to find the killer.
This is an interesting take on the cozy genre since it is the main character's job to be a snoop. I enjoyed getting to know Lola as she works the case presented to her.
Lola has a large extended family who all think she should find a less dangerous job. She still lives at home although it is in an apartment that she shares with her older brother over her childhood home. Lola is inquisitive to a fault. A good trait for a private investigator. She is also tougher than she seems given the opportunity to prove herself.
Lola's childhood crush, Jack, is back in the picture. He is a reporter and gets caught up in the action of the case. I will be interested to see where their relationship goes.
The mystery was convoluted and involved shady dealings, questionable businesses and politics. I was a bit surprised by the culprit until everything came together.
This was an interesting start to the series and I look forward to learning more about Lola in the coming books.
3.5 stars
April 9, 2019
A cozy with light steamy romance.
Dolores, aka Lola, has been in the PI business for 4 years, trained under Manny of Camacho & Assoc, in Sacramento CA. When her brother,Antonio's childhood friend Jack Callaghan returns all the hot flashes of lust & crush reignite in Lola.
Meanwhile Dolores is assigned to Emily Diggs. Emily's son died of a heart infection after a tattoo and Emily wants justice. When Emily turns up dead, the case gets very blurred by lies and legal blockades.
There are many plot twists in this who-done-it. There are also a lot of Spanish phrases and responses that I had a hard time following as exposure to Spanish is not common in Canada, especially in my generation.
Our Thrillers & Suspense book club is featuring book 3 in this series as April 2019 book of the month so I am working my way through this series!
Dolores, aka Lola, has been in the PI business for 4 years, trained under Manny of Camacho & Assoc, in Sacramento CA. When her brother,Antonio's childhood friend Jack Callaghan returns all the hot flashes of lust & crush reignite in Lola.
Meanwhile Dolores is assigned to Emily Diggs. Emily's son died of a heart infection after a tattoo and Emily wants justice. When Emily turns up dead, the case gets very blurred by lies and legal blockades.
There are many plot twists in this who-done-it. There are also a lot of Spanish phrases and responses that I had a hard time following as exposure to Spanish is not common in Canada, especially in my generation.
Our Thrillers & Suspense book club is featuring book 3 in this series as April 2019 book of the month so I am working my way through this series!
March 12, 2017
Lola Cruz is a fairly newly licensed PI, but she's wanted to be an investigator for almost her entire life, ever since she stalked her high school crush and snapped pictures of him from the bushes. As a PI, she's given a case to look into a missing woman. Things get complicated in both the investigation and her life as her high school crush, and brother's friend, comes back into her life while she's getting deeper and deeper into the investigation.
Death threats, dates, and a quincineara family and history blend together to make a fascinating mystery and a delicious romance. I wasn't sure before starting this if I'd continue on the series, but now I need to see where things go.
Death threats, dates, and a quincineara family and history blend together to make a fascinating mystery and a delicious romance. I wasn't sure before starting this if I'd continue on the series, but now I need to see where things go.
February 1, 2020
I wasn’t sure if I’d like this when I reserved this from my library, and for the first couple of chapters I was beginning to think that I was right. However, once I got used to the rhythms of the characters and the story, I began to warm up to Lola and her struggle to be taken seriously as a PI in a seemingly religious family where everyone else’s dramas seem to come first.
Now, I enjoyed the location and the action the author packed into a couple of hundred pages. However Jack is a problematic character for me. I don’t enjoy jock characters that seem to think that scoring with every pretty girl they met in college is a great lifestyle, especially when they meet one of their conquests years later - and she’s still not over him. It is worked into the story very well, and plays a role in how Lola and other characters act, but it’s still not an attractive quality in a character that I’m not sure has been redeemed during the ensuing years.
Then there’s Manny. There’s something up with super spy extraordinaire, and Sadie and Isabel seem to know what’s up, but Lola is flailing around in the dark. We might find out more in book 2, so I’m definitely here for that as I came to enjoy this book more than I’d expected and am now going to look for a copy to add to my shelves.
3.5 stars ⭐️ (would have been a 4 but for Jack’s smug attitude).
Now, I enjoyed the location and the action the author packed into a couple of hundred pages. However Jack is a problematic character for me. I don’t enjoy jock characters that seem to think that scoring with every pretty girl they met in college is a great lifestyle, especially when they meet one of their conquests years later - and she’s still not over him. It is worked into the story very well, and plays a role in how Lola and other characters act, but it’s still not an attractive quality in a character that I’m not sure has been redeemed during the ensuing years.
Then there’s Manny. There’s something up with super spy extraordinaire, and Sadie and Isabel seem to know what’s up, but Lola is flailing around in the dark. We might find out more in book 2, so I’m definitely here for that as I came to enjoy this book more than I’d expected and am now going to look for a copy to add to my shelves.
3.5 stars ⭐️ (would have been a 4 but for Jack’s smug attitude).
August 16, 2021
Lola is finally living her dream. Ever since she was a teen and she snuck around taking pictures of her crush with another girl, Lola decided that she was going to be a detective. Her Latinx family doesn’t understand why she wants to do such a dangerous job when she could be working in the family restaurant like her brother.
She’s given the task of tracking down a missing mother, but that’s not all. She’s got to help plan her cousin’s quinceañera, and deal with her family always talking to her about how dangerous her job is.
The missing mother’s body is found and now she’s trying to figure out why she was killed. Her boss told her that the person who had paid for the missing other tracking, was going to be paying for her to find out who it is. When she finds the killer, and the reason, we’re surprised. But the whole missing woman was a strange case for Lola and she’s glad that she solved it in time to head to the quinceañera and show off her dance moves.
Do you love quirky characters, cozy mysteries, wonderful writing, a great cast of characters? The I highly recommend this series. I definitely enjoyed reading this story and I can’t wait to read the rest of the book in this series.
** I read this story using my Kindle Unlimited account.
She’s given the task of tracking down a missing mother, but that’s not all. She’s got to help plan her cousin’s quinceañera, and deal with her family always talking to her about how dangerous her job is.
The missing mother’s body is found and now she’s trying to figure out why she was killed. Her boss told her that the person who had paid for the missing other tracking, was going to be paying for her to find out who it is. When she finds the killer, and the reason, we’re surprised. But the whole missing woman was a strange case for Lola and she’s glad that she solved it in time to head to the quinceañera and show off her dance moves.
Do you love quirky characters, cozy mysteries, wonderful writing, a great cast of characters? The I highly recommend this series. I definitely enjoyed reading this story and I can’t wait to read the rest of the book in this series.
** I read this story using my Kindle Unlimited account.
January 28, 2023
A fun yet deadly mystery.
I couldn't stop listening. The narrator did a fabulous job adding another dimension to a cast full of quirky characters. The story was well-paced and intriguing. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to devouring more in this series.
I couldn't stop listening. The narrator did a fabulous job adding another dimension to a cast full of quirky characters. The story was well-paced and intriguing. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to devouring more in this series.
May 6, 2023
This is a fast paced fun beginning to a series. Lola is a strong independent female protagonist. The secondary characters are interesting and give another level of entertainment to the storyline. The mystery is full of twists and turns to keep you guessing. I have book 2 on my TBR.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I have not been influenced by anyone.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I have not been influenced by anyone.
October 1, 2012
I’m not really sure why I bothered finishing this book. I was emotionally finished with it by about the 2/3 mark, though I’d been coasting by the halfway point. I think I was just curious whether or not Lola finally gets with Jack or not.
The problem is that I didn’t care much for Lola. She’s kind of a spaz for someone who is in her late twenties and in an established profession. And she’s a huge spaz for someone who is supposedly a Private Investigator. Of course, it didn’t help that Lola has some reflexive stupidity about things like guns and politicians (also: I’d like to know where she found a Republican Assemblyman in Sacramento. I suppose that, since he was supposed to be corrupt she had to imply he was a Republican…).
The biggest detriment to the book is how Ramirez completely wasted Jack as a character. I mean, an investigative reporter and a P.I.? That’s built-in conflict/synergy right there, that is. But it’s completely unused. Not to mention that he’s supposed to be, you know, smart and stuff. But all he is to Lola is a hot bod and long-term crush. Once it became clear that he was nothing more, I quickly lost faith that Ramirez was developing anything interesting. Unfortunately that was borne out by the ending.
Other problems with the book:
- the central mystery only barely holds together and depends a lot on some pretty unreasonable premises (starting with a person who would be stupid enough to have the motives they did and yet smart enough to get away with the crime for as long as they did).
- Lola’s agency is populated by adults stuck in emotional adolescence.
- Reilly’s obsession with Lola’s brother was supposed to be funny but came across as creepy, instead.
- Antonio’s motivations make no sense whatsoever at any point in the novel (particularly with regards to the photographs of Jack).
Yes, that’s a lot of dumb packed into a novel-sized package. I’m sorry for it because Ramirez isn’t a bad writer at the detail level. It’s “only” characters and plots that she messed up. And I did finish it when it comes right down to it.
A note about Steamy: This is a really light steam level. There’s no actual sex but the couple of groping sessions are detailed even if somewhat short. I almost didn’t flag it at all, but there’s enough there that those sensitive to such things ought to have fair warning.
The problem is that I didn’t care much for Lola. She’s kind of a spaz for someone who is in her late twenties and in an established profession. And she’s a huge spaz for someone who is supposedly a Private Investigator. Of course, it didn’t help that Lola has some reflexive stupidity about things like guns and politicians (also: I’d like to know where she found a Republican Assemblyman in Sacramento. I suppose that, since he was supposed to be corrupt she had to imply he was a Republican…).
The biggest detriment to the book is how Ramirez completely wasted Jack as a character. I mean, an investigative reporter and a P.I.? That’s built-in conflict/synergy right there, that is. But it’s completely unused. Not to mention that he’s supposed to be, you know, smart and stuff. But all he is to Lola is a hot bod and long-term crush. Once it became clear that he was nothing more, I quickly lost faith that Ramirez was developing anything interesting. Unfortunately that was borne out by the ending.
Other problems with the book:
- the central mystery only barely holds together and depends a lot on some pretty unreasonable premises (starting with a person who would be stupid enough to have the motives they did and yet smart enough to get away with the crime for as long as they did).
- Lola’s agency is populated by adults stuck in emotional adolescence.
- Reilly’s obsession with Lola’s brother was supposed to be funny but came across as creepy, instead.
- Antonio’s motivations make no sense whatsoever at any point in the novel (particularly with regards to the photographs of Jack).
Yes, that’s a lot of dumb packed into a novel-sized package. I’m sorry for it because Ramirez isn’t a bad writer at the detail level. It’s “only” characters and plots that she messed up. And I did finish it when it comes right down to it.
A note about Steamy: This is a really light steam level. There’s no actual sex but the couple of groping sessions are detailed even if somewhat short. I almost didn’t flag it at all, but there’s enough there that those sensitive to such things ought to have fair warning.
December 18, 2012
Reviewed by: Celia
This is not a good book
This is suppose to be a story of sexy, witty, smart Lola Cruz, PI. Correct?
Well, first of all, Lola struck me as a poor detective. She has the sassy spunk n' all, but she lacked the intuitive and deductive reasoning skills that come with being a great detective. Maybe I was spoiled with being a "Monk" fan (Monk being the most incredible genius I ever saw with him being able to see things that no other detective saw) but Lola was not even an amateur sleuth. Of course, I am taking into consideration that she is a rookie that just came out of internship, but still. She didn't have it. For crying out loud, she didn't even put the extra piece together about the tattoo parlor until one of her associates did it for her. What kind of detective is she? Oh, and she is supposedly a black belt in kung fu and all that. She talks a big game, but she doesn't back it up.
Second, the whole mystery was a little hard to follow. Mainly because you can't remember who the characters are. Mary? Allison? Bonatee? Muriel? Zod? Who are these people again? (Even now I had to go back to the book to get the names again). This exemplifies that the characters were not fleshed out enough to be memorable. And, on top of all that, I thought the "mystery" in the story was weak and lame. It didn't keep me up all night trying to figure out who done it.
All in all, I found Lola to be unlikable. She was flaky and dumb. Really, she spent the bulk of the book getting all "sexed up" for her Jack Callaghan. C'mon, cool your panties, girl!
In conclusion: This book, the first one in a mystery series, made me realize that I will not be following the PI cases of Ms. Lola Cruz.
This is not a good book
This is suppose to be a story of sexy, witty, smart Lola Cruz, PI. Correct?
Well, first of all, Lola struck me as a poor detective. She has the sassy spunk n' all, but she lacked the intuitive and deductive reasoning skills that come with being a great detective. Maybe I was spoiled with being a "Monk" fan (Monk being the most incredible genius I ever saw with him being able to see things that no other detective saw) but Lola was not even an amateur sleuth. Of course, I am taking into consideration that she is a rookie that just came out of internship, but still. She didn't have it. For crying out loud, she didn't even put the extra piece together about the tattoo parlor until one of her associates did it for her. What kind of detective is she? Oh, and she is supposedly a black belt in kung fu and all that. She talks a big game, but she doesn't back it up.
Second, the whole mystery was a little hard to follow. Mainly because you can't remember who the characters are. Mary? Allison? Bonatee? Muriel? Zod? Who are these people again? (Even now I had to go back to the book to get the names again). This exemplifies that the characters were not fleshed out enough to be memorable. And, on top of all that, I thought the "mystery" in the story was weak and lame. It didn't keep me up all night trying to figure out who done it.
All in all, I found Lola to be unlikable. She was flaky and dumb. Really, she spent the bulk of the book getting all "sexed up" for her Jack Callaghan. C'mon, cool your panties, girl!
In conclusion: This book, the first one in a mystery series, made me realize that I will not be following the PI cases of Ms. Lola Cruz.
August 12, 2020
I got "Pleating For Mercy" by Melissa Bourbon and thoroughly enjoyed my introduction to Bliss, Texas. Deciding to check out the author's website I discovered the "Lola" series written as Misa Ramirez.
I have to digress here and state that I read... A LOT. So for me to spend more than $8.00 on a book (especially in digital format) I have to really enjoy it. There are so many methods to obtain literature (audiobooks, libraries, paperbackswap.com) I have to really justify to myself spending on books. (I'm not a cheapskate I just read so much I have to explore all options to get my "fix").
The "Lola" series sounded fun (I am addicted to Stephanie Plum and Izzy Spellman) and just like the type of series I would enjoy. However it's ten bucks on Nook. I decided to download the Christmas prequel novella "The Lola Cruz Christmas Story". Darn, the book was like how people describe drugs from a dealer. Once I had a "taste" of Lola's world I needed more. There is no audio (hint, hint) and I have no patience to wait for paperbackswap.com to get the book to me. So I downloaded it courtesy of the instant satisfaction my Nook provides.
I actually read the book last week. However, I needed to re-read it. The dialogue was so crisp, the banter so great that I had to go back and do it all again. I wanted to make sure I hadn't accidentally skimmed over a witty remark, know with certainty I hadn't missed a single thought Lola had.
Lola (and her family) are relatable and charming. The storyline is inventive and exciting. And with my birthday next week I'm going to treat myself to the next book in the series!
I have to digress here and state that I read... A LOT. So for me to spend more than $8.00 on a book (especially in digital format) I have to really enjoy it. There are so many methods to obtain literature (audiobooks, libraries, paperbackswap.com) I have to really justify to myself spending on books. (I'm not a cheapskate I just read so much I have to explore all options to get my "fix").
The "Lola" series sounded fun (I am addicted to Stephanie Plum and Izzy Spellman) and just like the type of series I would enjoy. However it's ten bucks on Nook. I decided to download the Christmas prequel novella "The Lola Cruz Christmas Story". Darn, the book was like how people describe drugs from a dealer. Once I had a "taste" of Lola's world I needed more. There is no audio (hint, hint) and I have no patience to wait for paperbackswap.com to get the book to me. So I downloaded it courtesy of the instant satisfaction my Nook provides.
I actually read the book last week. However, I needed to re-read it. The dialogue was so crisp, the banter so great that I had to go back and do it all again. I wanted to make sure I hadn't accidentally skimmed over a witty remark, know with certainty I hadn't missed a single thought Lola had.
Lola (and her family) are relatable and charming. The storyline is inventive and exciting. And with my birthday next week I'm going to treat myself to the next book in the series!
October 14, 2009
I had to read a book with the character named Lola and Living the vida Lola! Lola is one of my fantasy names!!
And this book is great. Lola is an almost thirty something girl living in Sacremento upstairs from her parents. To their eternal consternation and disapproval, she's a black belt and a private detective. She is living her career dream ever since she stalked her brother's friend Jack when she was 14.
Lola fields a missing person case. As she starts to investigate she finds a card of a reporter who is -- lo and behold -- Jack, he of her adolescent fantasies and stalker behavior. As they move inexorably and sexily together, the case takes on a more dangerous and complicated turn. Exciting and funny, Lola solves the mystery and gets the guy, well at least sort of. Lots of unanswered and intriguing questions to be explored in a sequel...or two...or three.
Funny, fun, and an affectionate look at tightly knit Mexican-American families through the eyes of a woman who is both traditional and modern; cool and old-fashioned.
And this book is great. Lola is an almost thirty something girl living in Sacremento upstairs from her parents. To their eternal consternation and disapproval, she's a black belt and a private detective. She is living her career dream ever since she stalked her brother's friend Jack when she was 14.
Lola fields a missing person case. As she starts to investigate she finds a card of a reporter who is -- lo and behold -- Jack, he of her adolescent fantasies and stalker behavior. As they move inexorably and sexily together, the case takes on a more dangerous and complicated turn. Exciting and funny, Lola solves the mystery and gets the guy, well at least sort of. Lots of unanswered and intriguing questions to be explored in a sequel...or two...or three.
Funny, fun, and an affectionate look at tightly knit Mexican-American families through the eyes of a woman who is both traditional and modern; cool and old-fashioned.
April 11, 2009
This sparkling debut novel, set in Sacramento, is narrated by Dolores (Lola) Cruz, a detective at the Martinez agency. She's been assigned a missing person case, and is determined to find the woman, who disappeared leaving her six year old son behind. What can her high school crush Jack, recently returned to town as a reporter on the local newspaper, have with her case? She's found his card among the missing woman's possessions. And is Jack--hotter than ever--really interested in Lola? Speaking of hotness, her boss Manny--who is no slouch in that department--has also been giving her messages that Lola can't quite interpret. Meanwhile, Lola is still living in an apartment above her parents' house, and fielding Mama and Papa's complaints about her dangerous job.
Currently reading
November 13, 2023If this book is on your shelf, now is your chance to read it for FR.E.E. on Amazon! This is one of my absolute favorite series. Love Lola!
March 1, 2009
This is a great new series! It was very entertaining.
February 26, 2009
A fast paced and witty read! The main character is a Latina PI learining the ropes and coping with family expectations and love life issues. It is a fast read and very entertaining.
April 3, 2009
I really enjoyed reading this book! I love how the author used spanish & spanglish thru the entire book.....one can relate! The characters are real....Lola can be any one of us! Very enjoyable......
December 29, 2009
This book did not focus enough on the mystery. Lola was too busy getting all wrapped up in her high school crush.
April 23, 2023
Laugh out loud moments that has you completely immersed into the story.
I loved the characters in this book. Dolores, also known as Lola, is the type of character I would love to have as a best friend. She’s a loyal, strong, independent woman with a sense of humor and occasional self doubt. Jack Callaghan is handsome, successful, and sexy. He and Lola are hot for each other. A mixture of co-workers, Manny, a sexy he-man type; Sadie, who is a little bitchy, and always angry at Manny; and Reilly, who is the receptionist, and is wild about Lola’s brother, Antonio. All the characters blend well together, have great chemistry, and propel the story forward.
A rousing plot keeps the reader engaged and happy. You have the mystery to solve as well as the fun of Lola and her authentic Mexican family. The homey feel to the story was perfect against the less than perfect family of the mystery. Lola thoughts as she worked on solving the murder, dealing with her family, and the unexpectedness of having Jack back in her life were hilarious. I was laughing out loud.
Ms. Bourbon’s writing was engaging and a delight to read. She kept the book moving with excitement from the mystery as well as Lola’s personal life. This is the perfect book after a stressful day. Lola and her family will ease every bit of that stress. I highly recommend it.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
I loved the characters in this book. Dolores, also known as Lola, is the type of character I would love to have as a best friend. She’s a loyal, strong, independent woman with a sense of humor and occasional self doubt. Jack Callaghan is handsome, successful, and sexy. He and Lola are hot for each other. A mixture of co-workers, Manny, a sexy he-man type; Sadie, who is a little bitchy, and always angry at Manny; and Reilly, who is the receptionist, and is wild about Lola’s brother, Antonio. All the characters blend well together, have great chemistry, and propel the story forward.
A rousing plot keeps the reader engaged and happy. You have the mystery to solve as well as the fun of Lola and her authentic Mexican family. The homey feel to the story was perfect against the less than perfect family of the mystery. Lola thoughts as she worked on solving the murder, dealing with her family, and the unexpectedness of having Jack back in her life were hilarious. I was laughing out loud.
Ms. Bourbon’s writing was engaging and a delight to read. She kept the book moving with excitement from the mystery as well as Lola’s personal life. This is the perfect book after a stressful day. Lola and her family will ease every bit of that stress. I highly recommend it.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
February 15, 2024
Dolores "Lola" Cruz is a Private Investigator in Sacramento, California, who works for Camacho and Associates, a P.I. outfit. She, like her boss Manny Camacho, is Mexican-American. They have just been hired to investigate the disappearance of a woman named Emily Diggs and Lola is assigned the job. Emily eventually turns up murdered.
Basically, there are two intertwined plots running through this book. One is the murder mystery which leads Lola through all kinds of situations and meeting unsavory people, tattoo artists, politicians, etc. The other is her personal life. She lives in a flat above her parents' home with her brother Antonio, and her family is not happy with her career decision to be a PI - it's too dangerous for a young woman who refuses to carry a gun. The other factor in her personal life is Jack Callaghan - she has had the hots for him since high school, when she surreptitiously caught him doing the "horizontal salsa" with another girl, taking pictures. Early in her investigation of Emily Diggs' disappearance, Jack turns up as a newspaper reporter with whom Emily has thought to contact.
So the story goes, with the usual twists and turns of a murder mystery and the interplay of Lola and Jack, as well as her dealing with her parents and other relatives and their life events. And the text is interlarded with occasional Spanish exclamations and remarks reflecting her Mexican-American background.
Basically, there are two intertwined plots running through this book. One is the murder mystery which leads Lola through all kinds of situations and meeting unsavory people, tattoo artists, politicians, etc. The other is her personal life. She lives in a flat above her parents' home with her brother Antonio, and her family is not happy with her career decision to be a PI - it's too dangerous for a young woman who refuses to carry a gun. The other factor in her personal life is Jack Callaghan - she has had the hots for him since high school, when she surreptitiously caught him doing the "horizontal salsa" with another girl, taking pictures. Early in her investigation of Emily Diggs' disappearance, Jack turns up as a newspaper reporter with whom Emily has thought to contact.
So the story goes, with the usual twists and turns of a murder mystery and the interplay of Lola and Jack, as well as her dealing with her parents and other relatives and their life events. And the text is interlarded with occasional Spanish exclamations and remarks reflecting her Mexican-American background.
November 16, 2023
Living La Vida Lola is the first book in the Lola Cruz PI mystery series. It was fabuloso! Lola (Dolores) is 28 and is living her dream as a private investigator something she decided to become when she did undercover work at the age of 14 and took surreptitious photos of Jack Callahan in a compromising position with another girl (she treasures those photos!). Jack comes back into her life as a lead in a missing person's case, his newspaper reporter's card stapled into a journal of the missing women. Two murders later Lola is still working hard on the case, has several close calls as someone doesn't want her to continue investigating.
This was a laugh out loud cozy mystery with elements of romance that kept me on the edge my seat. I did not guess the perpetrator until the end.
Lola's family is a hoot, Mami, Papi, brother Antonio and various aunts, uncles and cousins (Lola has been roped into preparations for a cousin's quinceañeros celebration while tracking down a killer). Jack is another great character (thankfully he's also Catholic even though Irish instead of Latino). And the various members of the PI group, Manny, Sadie, Neil, and Reilly are also great characters. I would highly recommend this book and am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
This was a laugh out loud cozy mystery with elements of romance that kept me on the edge my seat. I did not guess the perpetrator until the end.
Lola's family is a hoot, Mami, Papi, brother Antonio and various aunts, uncles and cousins (Lola has been roped into preparations for a cousin's quinceañeros celebration while tracking down a killer). Jack is another great character (thankfully he's also Catholic even though Irish instead of Latino). And the various members of the PI group, Manny, Sadie, Neil, and Reilly are also great characters. I would highly recommend this book and am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
November 26, 2023
Okay I want to say I enjoyed this book but I nearly didn't finish it. It didn't feel like a mystery, in fact I had to check that I hadn't picked a romance. The story focused too much on sexual tension and I just wished that they would hurry up and sleep together, to get it out of the way. The mystery just got lost in the steamy gazes. It also had a lot of Spanish words that means nothing to me, okay I know it gives a character background etc but I had to stop reading to try a interrupt the meaning. Which is a shame because there was some funny moments and on the whole I did like the characters. The mystery had a number of suspects and I did finish it to find out who the killer was but I am not in a hurry to pick up the next book.
Life is hard for a female private detective but things got even harder for Lola when she is assigned the case of finding a missing mother. While investigating she discovers a business card for the man she had been in love with since she was a little girl, a man who was the reason she became a detective. Then the worse happens and the woman's body is discovered and it becomes even more important to get in contact with her list love. Does he hold the answers to the death? Or does her family hold the key? Can Lola and Jack find lost love and a killer?
Life is hard for a female private detective but things got even harder for Lola when she is assigned the case of finding a missing mother. While investigating she discovers a business card for the man she had been in love with since she was a little girl, a man who was the reason she became a detective. Then the worse happens and the woman's body is discovered and it becomes even more important to get in contact with her list love. Does he hold the answers to the death? Or does her family hold the key? Can Lola and Jack find lost love and a killer?
May 20, 2023
Delores Cruz aka Lola decided to be a PI when she followed Jack Callahan, her older brothers friend, and took pictures of him. She had a major crush on Jack and he didn't know she existed. Fast forward about 15 years and his name pops up on a missing person case she's working on. This time, however, the sparks are flying in both directions.
I love the way this author gives her characters so much life. Lola lives with her brother in the upstairs apartment over her parents. He is still friends with Jack who just moved back to town, and he loves to torment Lola. Her mother is exactly what you would expect from a controlling momma with a daughter who should be married by now with a plethora of children. Hilarious!
The missing person case has many twists and turns and as Lola follows them she gets reacquainted with Jack, tries to impress her boss, fights with one co-worker about who should work on which cases, and get her brother to take out a quirky co-worker with a crush on him.
The missing person case is interesting, the guilty party was a surprise to me, and I thoroughly enjoyed this first book in the series.
I love the way this author gives her characters so much life. Lola lives with her brother in the upstairs apartment over her parents. He is still friends with Jack who just moved back to town, and he loves to torment Lola. Her mother is exactly what you would expect from a controlling momma with a daughter who should be married by now with a plethora of children. Hilarious!
The missing person case has many twists and turns and as Lola follows them she gets reacquainted with Jack, tries to impress her boss, fights with one co-worker about who should work on which cases, and get her brother to take out a quirky co-worker with a crush on him.
The missing person case is interesting, the guilty party was a surprise to me, and I thoroughly enjoyed this first book in the series.
April 9, 2024
“Living the Vida Lola” is an odd read – the central mystery (concerning a missing woman) plays second fiddle a lot of the time to the almost romance between P.I. Lola Cruz and investigative journalist Jack Callaghan.
In fact it was stalking Jack back in high school that convinced Lola she was destined to be a P.I.
Jack is back in town after several years and but, like several other characters in the book – i.e. Manny and Sadie - is very coy about revealing any details of his private life.
Oddly, Jack's main function is arm candy for the lustful Lola – his journalistic and investigative abilities are redundant until the end.
There's a lot of thinking about sex, some heavy petting sessions, but the sex itself falls victim to a series of interruptions.
Get a room outta town I say.
It's a mostly fun read with a couple of humorous set pieces but it's too scatterbrained to make a coherent whole.
2.5 Stars raised to 3 Stars.
In fact it was stalking Jack back in high school that convinced Lola she was destined to be a P.I.
Jack is back in town after several years and but, like several other characters in the book – i.e. Manny and Sadie - is very coy about revealing any details of his private life.
Oddly, Jack's main function is arm candy for the lustful Lola – his journalistic and investigative abilities are redundant until the end.
There's a lot of thinking about sex, some heavy petting sessions, but the sex itself falls victim to a series of interruptions.
Get a room outta town I say.
It's a mostly fun read with a couple of humorous set pieces but it's too scatterbrained to make a coherent whole.
2.5 Stars raised to 3 Stars.
November 27, 2018
she is working in a pi agency. she found the robbers of a market. she doesnt get along with the other woman in her office. the boss is hot
her crush from high school moved back from SLO and she is trying to get with him. she is trying to figure out what happened to a missing lady that turned up dead. her son died from a heart infection after getting a tattoo
while she was at the tattoo place asking questions she got her belly button pierced and its turning all kinds of colors. she needs to go to a dr! never heard how it healed up, maybe next book which i ordered
her crush got shot in the arm. her brother got in a car accident meant for her when he borrowed her car. her parents want her to quit her dangerous job. she wants to move out to her own apt, not above her parents
will be fun to read the next book and find out what happens.
her crush from high school moved back from SLO and she is trying to get with him. she is trying to figure out what happened to a missing lady that turned up dead. her son died from a heart infection after getting a tattoo
while she was at the tattoo place asking questions she got her belly button pierced and its turning all kinds of colors. she needs to go to a dr! never heard how it healed up, maybe next book which i ordered
her crush got shot in the arm. her brother got in a car accident meant for her when he borrowed her car. her parents want her to quit her dangerous job. she wants to move out to her own apt, not above her parents
will be fun to read the next book and find out what happens.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2021
Living the Vida Lola
Great effort for first in series. I really enjoyed it. Fast paced, great mystery, and a little bit of romance. Lola was smart, strong and adorably naive at times. Can't wait until everything is revealed. Like who is Sarah and what the deal is with Mannie and Sadie. Sadie has a huge chip on her shoulder and ie hateful, bossy and pushy. There is no cliffhanger, the mystery and murders are solved. These questions are gonna be part of ongoing arc. I love Jack. I REALLY hope he is as good as advertised .Reilly is delusional and needs to stop embarrassing herself.
Book told from FMC POV. Some steam. As mentioned above, no cliffhanger. Fun start, really enjoyed.
Great effort for first in series. I really enjoyed it. Fast paced, great mystery, and a little bit of romance. Lola was smart, strong and adorably naive at times. Can't wait until everything is revealed. Like who is Sarah and what the deal is with Mannie and Sadie. Sadie has a huge chip on her shoulder and ie hateful, bossy and pushy. There is no cliffhanger, the mystery and murders are solved. These questions are gonna be part of ongoing arc. I love Jack. I REALLY hope he is as good as advertised .Reilly is delusional and needs to stop embarrassing herself.
Book told from FMC POV. Some steam. As mentioned above, no cliffhanger. Fun start, really enjoyed.
April 16, 2023
Lola Cruz is a PI with the Comacho Detective Agengy working for Manny and fighting for cases with her fellow PI Sadie. Lola is a fun character with a Latino heritage, and I enjoyed the sprinkling of Spanish phrases throughout the book. She is daring, has a black belt in kung fu (and refuses to carry a gun - saying her body is her weapon!) and is pretty fearless. Her latest case, finding a missing mother who was making waves about her son being killed by an infected tattoo, has her going in circles trying to find clues! All the while dodging politics, crazy people, and threats to her life! She’s also trying to help her cousin plan her quinceanera in her spare time! This was a fast paced and delightful read. I received a free ARC from the author and write this review voluntarily.
April 20, 2024
You go girl
A story about a strong, intelligent Latina? Yes, please. Lola knows what she's wanted since she was a teenager, to be a PI and Jack Callaghan. She worked to become the first and just may a have a chance with the second when her latest case leads her to Jack. The missing woman had Jack's card, as a reporter, he finds himself interacting with all kinds of people and finding information is his job. With his help, a whole lot of luck, and a passel of clues to work through, Lola's got her what she needs to solve her case. Especially when things get even crazier as people around her dies or gets hurt, including herself.
I loved this story. She did good and reading about a strong Latina doing her thing is always a bonus.
A story about a strong, intelligent Latina? Yes, please. Lola knows what she's wanted since she was a teenager, to be a PI and Jack Callaghan. She worked to become the first and just may a have a chance with the second when her latest case leads her to Jack. The missing woman had Jack's card, as a reporter, he finds himself interacting with all kinds of people and finding information is his job. With his help, a whole lot of luck, and a passel of clues to work through, Lola's got her what she needs to solve her case. Especially when things get even crazier as people around her dies or gets hurt, including herself.
I loved this story. She did good and reading about a strong Latina doing her thing is always a bonus.
May 13, 2023
This was such a fun read from one of my all time favorite writers. It is the first book in the series and introduces us to Lola in an outstanding humorous way. It also emphasizes her family dynamics and culture. I really enjoyed those interactions and learning more about a culture I studied in high school briefly. Lola is the type of main female sleuth I enjoy - smart, sassy, able to take care of herself, has a quirky and loving family, and is someone I'd like to be friends with. Recommended to mystery lovers who enjoy humor with a splash of romance in their reads.
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