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A Jaine Austen Mystery #18
Murder Gets a Makeover
The latest in acclaimed TV comedy writer and novelist Laura Levine’s witty, lighthearted mystery series featuring Hollywood-based freelance writer Jaine Austen and her snarky cat, Prozac—a laugh-out-loud read for fans of Joanne Fluke, Miranda James, and Laura Childs. Uber-stylist Bebe Braddock plans to juice up her Instagram feed and thinks Jaine would make a perfect “Before & After” model. At Lance’s insistence Jaine is ushered into Bebe’s sprawling Brentwood spread to await her transformation. Yet, while the surroundings are glamorous, the atmosphere is toxic as Bebe bullies her team of assistants, and even her husband, into obeying her every whim. Having earned the wrath of everyone in her orbit, few are shocked when Bebe is found strangled with one of her detested wire hangers. But Jaine’s prints are all over the murder weapon, making her a prime suspect. The police, however, aren’t the only ones showing interest in her—so is Justin, Bebe’s very cute, very young personal assistant. While Jaine navigates a cougar-style romance, Prozac is mistakenly hailed as a feline hero and catapults into internet fame. Still, there are more urgent matters at hand than Prozac’s swelling ego. Unless Jaine can track down Bebe’s killer and clear her own name, the only new outfit she’ll be modeling is an orange prison jumpsuit . . . “As always, Levine’s spunky heroine gets the last laugh.” —Kirkus Reviews“For lovers of the zany this is a sure thing.” —Booklist
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2021
67 people are currently reading
490 people want to read
About the author
Laura Levine
58 books1,235 followersGrew up in Brooklyn, New York, back when mastodons (and Edsels) still roamed the earth.
Education: Barnard College
First job: Reporter/photographer at a newspaper so small, we had our photos developed in the local camera shop.
Advertising claim to fame: I created Count Chocula and Frankenberry cereals for General Mills.
TV gets invented, and I get a job as a sitcom writer, turning out scripts for shows like The Bob Newhart Show, Three’s Company, Laverne & Shirley, The Love Boat, The Jeffersons, and Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman.
Current (and favorite) incarnation: Author of Jaine Austen mysteries.
Marital status: Wedded blissfully to business journalist Mark Lacter (aka Mr. Hubby), whose insightful coverage of the Los Angeles business scene can be checked daily at http://www.laobserved.com/biz/
Favorite authors: COMEDY: Joe Keenan. MYSTERY: Agatha Christie. SERIOUS STUFF: Anne Tyler.
Hobbies: Reading, swimming, gardening, and lots of walks (mainly to the refrigerator).
Education: Barnard College
First job: Reporter/photographer at a newspaper so small, we had our photos developed in the local camera shop.
Advertising claim to fame: I created Count Chocula and Frankenberry cereals for General Mills.
TV gets invented, and I get a job as a sitcom writer, turning out scripts for shows like The Bob Newhart Show, Three’s Company, Laverne & Shirley, The Love Boat, The Jeffersons, and Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman.
Current (and favorite) incarnation: Author of Jaine Austen mysteries.
Marital status: Wedded blissfully to business journalist Mark Lacter (aka Mr. Hubby), whose insightful coverage of the Los Angeles business scene can be checked daily at http://www.laobserved.com/biz/
Favorite authors: COMEDY: Joe Keenan. MYSTERY: Agatha Christie. SERIOUS STUFF: Anne Tyler.
Hobbies: Reading, swimming, gardening, and lots of walks (mainly to the refrigerator).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
June 27, 2022
Jaine Austen is back! Her neighbor Lance signs her up for a makeover, but it turns out to be with a horrible woman who mistreats all her employees. When she turns up dead, Jaine, who found her and touched the murder weapon, is the prime suspect. As usual, Jaine does some investigating. This book was made especially hilarious by the antics of faithful cat companion Prozac, who becomes a YouTube star, and Jaine’s parents, who delight as always through their emails. Jaine’s mother doesn’t want to read a dreary Russian doorstop of a novel for her book club and her father is unable to give up his obsession with Lydia Pinkus. This series is always fun to read.
November 9, 2021
I really enjoy this series. Fun, entertaining, kitty with attitude, heroine with elastic-waist pants, corny friend, mind-boggling parents, hijinks and a mystery. What's not to love?!
October 15, 2021
Thanks to her neighbor, Jaine Austen is getting a free makeover. Unfortunately, it is with Bebe Braddock, who turns out to be a nasty woman. When Jaine goes to a fitting, she finds Bebe’s dead body. The police start looking at Jaine as their top suspect, so she tries to find the real killer. Meanwhile, Jaine’s cat, Prozac, becomes a viral star after saving a toddler’s life and her father thinks he finally has the goods on his nemesis in the retirement community.
Between the strong sub-plots and the solid mystery, this book is always hopping. Author Laura Levine does a great job of juggling everything and keeping us entertained the entire time. The book is filled with laughs, mainly coming from the sub-plots. The characters are more caricatures, but they fit the tone of the series perfectly and do their job of entertaining us. I did feel this book wasn’t quite as good as most of the series, but it’s mostly minor nitpicks. Overall, I enjoyed Jaine’s latest adventure and am sure that her fans will laugh as the pages fly by.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
Between the strong sub-plots and the solid mystery, this book is always hopping. Author Laura Levine does a great job of juggling everything and keeping us entertained the entire time. The book is filled with laughs, mainly coming from the sub-plots. The characters are more caricatures, but they fit the tone of the series perfectly and do their job of entertaining us. I did feel this book wasn’t quite as good as most of the series, but it’s mostly minor nitpicks. Overall, I enjoyed Jaine’s latest adventure and am sure that her fans will laugh as the pages fly by.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
June 23, 2021
I didn't release when I picked this book up that it was the 18th in a series. That being said it really didn't distract to much from the story as the author made sure I knew who was who and what was going on.
This book was a really fun and quick read and really is what a cosy mystery should strive to be. There is nothing to serious in this book and at times that is exactly what you need. I was also pretty easy to guess who did it - which actually works for me, there were no last minute clues that where never mentioned.
This book is exactly what it claims to be and that is refreshing. Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington for the ARC
This book was a really fun and quick read and really is what a cosy mystery should strive to be. There is nothing to serious in this book and at times that is exactly what you need. I was also pretty easy to guess who did it - which actually works for me, there were no last minute clues that where never mentioned.
This book is exactly what it claims to be and that is refreshing. Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington for the ARC
October 5, 2021
Jaine Austen somehow gets chosen for a celebrity makeover. She's not all that enthusiastic, but she might get some new clothes and things, so off she goes. The celebrity shopper is completely obnoxious, and gets the usual death sentence. Even though there is a plethora of suspects, Jaine is certainly a suspect herself. She starts investigating to clear her name. Her cat becomes an internet celebrity, Lance tries to solve the case too, and Jaine gets a 20 year old boytoy.
Light and funny, while being a well constructed mystery.
Light and funny, while being a well constructed mystery.
September 5, 2021
I have to admit that I have never been a big fan of the “A Jaine Austen Mystery” series, and unfortunately, Murder Gets A Makeover hasn’t changed that fact. Yes, it has moments of humor and some mystery, but for the most part, the entire series seems more about a woman who is obsessed with food and her cat and does not appear to care about her health, her family, or anything else. Added to this is a so-called best friend that is a complete bore, uncaring of Jaines feelings, and an attention whore. With friends like Lance, who needs enemies? After 18 books and countless years, the main character, Jaine, has never grown up, changed, or has shown any desire to do so. Even the writing she does has an air of carelessness. You would think as a writer, she would take some pride in her work, but she doesn’t seem to care about the people she works for any more than she does anything else. Jaine definitely needs a makeover, in every way, looks, habits, fashion, and personality. Her cat is far more entertaining than she is and has better hygiene.
This time around, Jaine gets involved when a horrible woman who is a fashion stylist to the stars is murdered, and Jaine is stupid enough to touch the murder weapon. For a woman who does nothing other than sit in her house eating all day and occasionally writing, she gets involved in a lot of murder investigations. The fashion stylist is giving Jaine a much-needed makeover, but when Jaine shows up to pick up her new wardrobe, she finds the stylist dead. Jaine’s cat becomes an internet star, and Jaine starts dating the dead woman’s assistant. These events should be funny, but they just fall flat.
It doesn’t take long for suspects to come out of the woodwork, or motives, while the mystery itself could easily have ended the moment the police showed up. Jaine isn’t a good detective; she jumps to conclusions and suspects/accuses everyone who ever knew the victim. However, the real killer isn’t difficult to spot from the beginning. Unfortunately, the makeover ends up a disaster, and Prozac, Jaine’s cat, ends up getting its 15-minutes of fame, then is soon forgotten. As for Jaines BFF and neighbor, he is a complete nightmare and not a person I would consider a friend. I am sorry to say that I just can’t find much in Murder Gets A Makeover to get excited about. I know fans of the series will love this book, but I’m not sure new readers will even want to pick it up.
This time around, Jaine gets involved when a horrible woman who is a fashion stylist to the stars is murdered, and Jaine is stupid enough to touch the murder weapon. For a woman who does nothing other than sit in her house eating all day and occasionally writing, she gets involved in a lot of murder investigations. The fashion stylist is giving Jaine a much-needed makeover, but when Jaine shows up to pick up her new wardrobe, she finds the stylist dead. Jaine’s cat becomes an internet star, and Jaine starts dating the dead woman’s assistant. These events should be funny, but they just fall flat.
It doesn’t take long for suspects to come out of the woodwork, or motives, while the mystery itself could easily have ended the moment the police showed up. Jaine isn’t a good detective; she jumps to conclusions and suspects/accuses everyone who ever knew the victim. However, the real killer isn’t difficult to spot from the beginning. Unfortunately, the makeover ends up a disaster, and Prozac, Jaine’s cat, ends up getting its 15-minutes of fame, then is soon forgotten. As for Jaines BFF and neighbor, he is a complete nightmare and not a person I would consider a friend. I am sorry to say that I just can’t find much in Murder Gets A Makeover to get excited about. I know fans of the series will love this book, but I’m not sure new readers will even want to pick it up.
April 16, 2021
There’s nothing I love better than reading a new book by the wonderfully talented Laura Levine.
Jaine Austin is my favorite character. I can relate to her very well. I, too, wear elastic waist pants, as well as enjoy my fair share of burgers and fries. I also have two cats that feel they should be treated like royalty, much like Prozac.
In Murder Gets a Makeover, Jaine finds herself wrapped up in another police investigation thanks to her friend and neighbor, Lance. Jaine ends up on the receiving end of a makeover, and as a result she not only finds the victim, but she’s lost her Cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs t-shirt! In the midst of all this drama, Jaine’s parents are emailing her with their own crazy shenanigans and Prozac is becoming an internet sensation.
If Jaine can get through all of this, it will be a miracle.
I love catching up with my favorite heroine, and I can’t wait for the next book.
#MurderGetsaMakeover #NetGalley
Jaine Austin is my favorite character. I can relate to her very well. I, too, wear elastic waist pants, as well as enjoy my fair share of burgers and fries. I also have two cats that feel they should be treated like royalty, much like Prozac.
In Murder Gets a Makeover, Jaine finds herself wrapped up in another police investigation thanks to her friend and neighbor, Lance. Jaine ends up on the receiving end of a makeover, and as a result she not only finds the victim, but she’s lost her Cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs t-shirt! In the midst of all this drama, Jaine’s parents are emailing her with their own crazy shenanigans and Prozac is becoming an internet sensation.
If Jaine can get through all of this, it will be a miracle.
I love catching up with my favorite heroine, and I can’t wait for the next book.
#MurderGetsaMakeover #NetGalley
September 10, 2021
My first in this series although it is the eighteenth instalment, Jaine Austen lives with her cat Prozac in L.A. Thirty-odd-year-old Jaine is a writer-for-hire and her best friend and neighbour, Lance thinks Jaime would appreciate a makeover. Bebe Braddock offers her services but is then found dead, strangled by someone using a wire coat hanger.
There is plenty to amuse in this great cozy including a mad deva-like feline and some crazy carry on from Jaime's parents. With a veritable bucketload of suspects, I was flummoxed whilst attempting to identify the culprit. A superb and wacky read in a new series for me. I'll be reading more by Laura Levine, for sure.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
There is plenty to amuse in this great cozy including a mad deva-like feline and some crazy carry on from Jaime's parents. With a veritable bucketload of suspects, I was flummoxed whilst attempting to identify the culprit. A superb and wacky read in a new series for me. I'll be reading more by Laura Levine, for sure.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
March 31, 2022
This was an extremely fun read! All the books in this series are. For Murder mysteries they’re never too dark and the wild antics of Jaine and her cat Prozac made this one super funny. While being funny and almost “silly” at times there’s still a real story told with some good twists and turns. I always look forward to next book.
May 6, 2021
Jaine Austen (no relation) is an at-home freelance writer with a crazy cat (she speaks for the cat in italics so it doesn't technically talk) named Prozac, and a pushy high society shoe salesman neighbor, Lance. Sound zany? It could have been fun, but the author had different ideas.
This book begins with a couple of laughs and appears very promising. But instead of it being a hobby, it becomes endlessly clear that Jaine genuinely loves food. She eats, thinks about, and talks about eating. Frequently and nearly constantly. All the time. Without end.
When Lance volunteers Jaine for a fashion makeover by famous fashion stylist, Bebe, Jaine meets Justin. He's Bebe's assistant. He's 20 (too young to buy booze so others have to buy it for him), and Jaine is 30-ish.
Justin, it seems, likes older women. This is when the mention of food begins to wear thin. It's also when Jaine switches some of her focus to "lady parts" and "undies-of-the-day," and even her cat's lady parts. That follows with other euphemisms through the rest of the book, giving everything a decidedly and increasing "eww" factor with each giggle. (And I began to gag.) Swearing also warms up and keeps going strong to the end.
There is a murder. There's an incident with Prozac the cat, that is supposed to be hilarious. Sadly, by then I keep checking to see how much book is left before it's mercifully over.
The yuck thermometer rises to a previously unguessed-at height, and finally, the book ends. After guessing that everyone was the killer except herself, her cat, and her parents, it was hard to call the big reveal a "twist." But the author gave it a shot anyway.
It's too bad that the amusing ideas were practically drowned in take-out or just disappointment and chunky monkey, and the mystery was literally strangled with distasteful "comedic" elements best left in a dive-bar's trash can. But I would not recommend this book, or the author in future endeavors.
This book begins with a couple of laughs and appears very promising. But instead of it being a hobby, it becomes endlessly clear that Jaine genuinely loves food. She eats, thinks about, and talks about eating. Frequently and nearly constantly. All the time. Without end.
When Lance volunteers Jaine for a fashion makeover by famous fashion stylist, Bebe, Jaine meets Justin. He's Bebe's assistant. He's 20 (too young to buy booze so others have to buy it for him), and Jaine is 30-ish.
Justin, it seems, likes older women. This is when the mention of food begins to wear thin. It's also when Jaine switches some of her focus to "lady parts" and "undies-of-the-day," and even her cat's lady parts. That follows with other euphemisms through the rest of the book, giving everything a decidedly and increasing "eww" factor with each giggle. (And I began to gag.) Swearing also warms up and keeps going strong to the end.
There is a murder. There's an incident with Prozac the cat, that is supposed to be hilarious. Sadly, by then I keep checking to see how much book is left before it's mercifully over.
The yuck thermometer rises to a previously unguessed-at height, and finally, the book ends. After guessing that everyone was the killer except herself, her cat, and her parents, it was hard to call the big reveal a "twist." But the author gave it a shot anyway.
It's too bad that the amusing ideas were practically drowned in take-out or just disappointment and chunky monkey, and the mystery was literally strangled with distasteful "comedic" elements best left in a dive-bar's trash can. But I would not recommend this book, or the author in future endeavors.
August 25, 2024
Half the fun of getting to a destination is the journey, so even though I knew immediately who the killer was, I enjoyed seeing Jaine bumbling along until the lightbulb finally went on over her head.
I wish Ms Levine would Google synonyms for tush - she uses that word at least 50 times in every book!
I finally have deduced that Jaine is in her late thirties- the perfect grand finale of the series should be titled Death Comes at Forty!!
I was always a fan of Lillian Jackson Braun’s The Cat Who…..books. Glad to see Prozac join the club with Koko and Yum Yum.
I wish Ms Levine would Google synonyms for tush - she uses that word at least 50 times in every book!
I finally have deduced that Jaine is in her late thirties- the perfect grand finale of the series should be titled Death Comes at Forty!!
I was always a fan of Lillian Jackson Braun’s The Cat Who…..books. Glad to see Prozac join the club with Koko and Yum Yum.
July 27, 2021
A solid cozy mystery that is fun and a great way to rest your brain. There are lots of funny moments. And if you love cats, you will appreciate Jaine’s relationship with the cat who owns her, Prozac. I wasn’t shocked by the killer but I wasn’t disappointed either.
The only draw back is that Jaine is too obsessed with food. Lots of cozies deal with food but this is not healthy.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.
The only draw back is that Jaine is too obsessed with food. Lots of cozies deal with food but this is not healthy.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.
September 29, 2021
I've read all the Jaine Austen "mysteries," and this one has some problems. Maybe things that were cute in the previous 17 books just look like major character flaws now. Jaine's neighbor Lance has never been very supportive, and there's always been a certain bitchy queenliness to the character, but he's even more selfish than usual in this story, unforgivably so. Jaine deserves better. Her best friend the TV writer doesn't even appear in this one. She's sane, so she's been phased out in the last 6 or 7 books. I don't know if the publisher or editor decided that Jaine is best if she's surrounded by people (and a cat) who don't value her at all, treat her like a fat imbecile, and take advantage of her. Maybe they think that's funny? The books have treated their own heroine progressively worse and worse, and become less and less funny, because no one seems to care about Jaine anymore. Nothing positive happens to her, because that wouldn't be funny. Even her cat is becoming too big an ahole to be amusing. I'm ready to quit this series if she doesn't dump Lance, train the cat to be less of a dirtbag, and have something good happen in her life.
April 16, 2021
There’s nothing I love better than reading a new book by the wonderfully talented Laura Levine.
Jaine Austin is my favorite character. I can relate to her very well. I, too, wear elastic waist pants, as well as enjoy my fair share of burgers and fries. I also have two cats that feel they should be treated like royalty, much like Prozac.
In Murder Gets a Makeover, Jaine finds herself wrapped up in another police investigation thanks to her friend and neighbor, Lance. Jaine ends up on the receiving end of a makeover, and as a result she not only finds the victim, but she’s lost her Cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs t-shirt! In the midst of all this drama, Jaine’s parents are emailing her with their own crazy shenanigans and Prozac is becoming an internet sensation.
If Jaine can get through all of this, it will be a miracle.
I love catching up with my favorite heroine, and I can’t wait for the next book.
#MurderGetsaMakeover #NetGalley
Jaine Austin is my favorite character. I can relate to her very well. I, too, wear elastic waist pants, as well as enjoy my fair share of burgers and fries. I also have two cats that feel they should be treated like royalty, much like Prozac.
In Murder Gets a Makeover, Jaine finds herself wrapped up in another police investigation thanks to her friend and neighbor, Lance. Jaine ends up on the receiving end of a makeover, and as a result she not only finds the victim, but she’s lost her Cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs t-shirt! In the midst of all this drama, Jaine’s parents are emailing her with their own crazy shenanigans and Prozac is becoming an internet sensation.
If Jaine can get through all of this, it will be a miracle.
I love catching up with my favorite heroine, and I can’t wait for the next book.
#MurderGetsaMakeover #NetGalley
September 13, 2021
3.5 stars
Murder Gets A Makeover by Laura Levine is Jaine Austen and her mischievous cat Prozac’s newest adventure Jaine is a freelance writer and together with her cat always seem to get into awkward, embarrassing situations. This time, Jaine’s troubles begin when her friend Lance arranges for her to get a fashion makeover from the talented but hateful Bebe Braddock. At the same time, Prozac becomes a viral Internet sensation when she saves a toddler from getting hit by a car (but was really going after the little boy’s chicken nugget.) When Bebe is murdered, Jaine finds herself one of the suspects and must find the real killer to clear her name. No matter what trouble Prozac causes, Jaine loves her and always forgives her.
This book is funny, just like all the others I’ve read in this series. Jaine has plenty of suspects to investigate, including a hot younger man who seems to be crushing on Jaine. Anyone who has read other books in the series know that romance doesn’t usually go Jaine’s way, so throughout the book, I was waiting for the other shoe to drop. Jaine’s parents relay their latest escapades via a series of emails and while this sub-plot isn’t related to the murder, I really liked the story of their current catastrophe.
I enjoyed the book, but not as much as other entries in this humorous mystery series. I would recommend starting with some of the earlier books in the series that are laugh out loud funny and although they’re definitely light reading, have a little more substance to the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing an advance copy of this ebook. The book was provided to me at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
Murder Gets A Makeover by Laura Levine is Jaine Austen and her mischievous cat Prozac’s newest adventure Jaine is a freelance writer and together with her cat always seem to get into awkward, embarrassing situations. This time, Jaine’s troubles begin when her friend Lance arranges for her to get a fashion makeover from the talented but hateful Bebe Braddock. At the same time, Prozac becomes a viral Internet sensation when she saves a toddler from getting hit by a car (but was really going after the little boy’s chicken nugget.) When Bebe is murdered, Jaine finds herself one of the suspects and must find the real killer to clear her name. No matter what trouble Prozac causes, Jaine loves her and always forgives her.
This book is funny, just like all the others I’ve read in this series. Jaine has plenty of suspects to investigate, including a hot younger man who seems to be crushing on Jaine. Anyone who has read other books in the series know that romance doesn’t usually go Jaine’s way, so throughout the book, I was waiting for the other shoe to drop. Jaine’s parents relay their latest escapades via a series of emails and while this sub-plot isn’t related to the murder, I really liked the story of their current catastrophe.
I enjoyed the book, but not as much as other entries in this humorous mystery series. I would recommend starting with some of the earlier books in the series that are laugh out loud funny and although they’re definitely light reading, have a little more substance to the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing an advance copy of this ebook. The book was provided to me at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
June 28, 2021
This 18th entry in the series follows the pattern that has proceeded before it. Jaine's relationship with food borders on eating disorder. She has various dating disasters. Prozac continues to be a diva, the emails from her parents continue to be off-the-wall and Lance continues to morph into mean-spirited (honestly, I don't remember him being like this in the early books - but as time marches on, my memory fades).
Levine continues to give reads a multitude of suspects to work with, although the character development felt very light in the pants (again, 18th book in the series....). The baddie however is fairly obvious if you take Jaine's personal history into account.
This is one of the few (OK, only) series I continue to read strictly for "brain candy" purposes. I go into each new book knowing it won't change my life or rock my world - but instead it's a way to unwind from my day and turn off my brain for a while. On that score it works. But the series itself has always had problematic elements and will continue to do so unless Jaine sees a therapist about her binge eating.
Levine continues to give reads a multitude of suspects to work with, although the character development felt very light in the pants (again, 18th book in the series....). The baddie however is fairly obvious if you take Jaine's personal history into account.
This is one of the few (OK, only) series I continue to read strictly for "brain candy" purposes. I go into each new book knowing it won't change my life or rock my world - but instead it's a way to unwind from my day and turn off my brain for a while. On that score it works. But the series itself has always had problematic elements and will continue to do so unless Jaine sees a therapist about her binge eating.
June 19, 2021
Makeovers, becoming a "cougar", losing her beloved Cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs t-shirt, watching Prozac become an star and trying keep Daddy-O from stalking Lydia Pinkus is all in a day's work for Jaine Austen.- advertising jingle writer and amateur sleuth!
Where to start? Jaine' sleuthing is at her best trying to prove she's innocent of the murder (by wire hanger) of Makeover/Influencer queen, Bebe Braddock. Her romantic life is blooming with a relationship with Justin, Bebe's young assistant. The descriptions of Jaine and Justin were hilarious. Prozac "saves" a toddler and is a star. As always the emails from Jaine's Mom and Dad are a hoot! Poor Lydia! So much happens in these mysteries, that turning a page is an adventure for Jaine and the reader.
If you want a fun mystery with humour and a lovable character, this series is the perfect fit!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Where to start? Jaine' sleuthing is at her best trying to prove she's innocent of the murder (by wire hanger) of Makeover/Influencer queen, Bebe Braddock. Her romantic life is blooming with a relationship with Justin, Bebe's young assistant. The descriptions of Jaine and Justin were hilarious. Prozac "saves" a toddler and is a star. As always the emails from Jaine's Mom and Dad are a hoot! Poor Lydia! So much happens in these mysteries, that turning a page is an adventure for Jaine and the reader.
If you want a fun mystery with humour and a lovable character, this series is the perfect fit!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
November 4, 2022
Nobody can drive from one end of the greater Los Angeles area to the other and make the headway, this slob (by her own description) does. She's not even a suspect in the murder, except in her own mind. She was only interviewed once and never hired a lawyer. There's no explanation of why the young man in courting her and why he's got a Murphy bed. Seriously, not in L.A. and not in modern times. As far as the secondary plot about her father stalking a woman and bumbling accounts in emails, it's absurd. He needs to be committed. I was surprised to read the author biography with writing credits in such shows as Mary Hart, Mary Hart and the Bob Newhart show. Kudos for still working in her later years.
September 26, 2021
Another entertaining volume to this series. Jaine's antics (and those of her father) are always good for a laugh. I thoroughly enjoyed her adventures in Hollywood as well as Prozac's leap to stardom. One of my biggest pet peeves in cozies is when the MC forgets that they have a day job/shop to run but that's not a problem for Jaine; she freelances so the mystery can be front and center and she still has time for work during her downtime. This is the series to turn to when I need a pick-me-up. Can't wait for the next!
I received a copy from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
#MurderGetsAMakeover #NetGalley
I received a copy from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
#MurderGetsAMakeover #NetGalley
May 9, 2021
This is the 18th book in the humorous cozy Jaine Austen Mystery series. I have read and loved every book in the series.
While, yes there is a murder. and yes Jaine is a suspect so investigatesthe murder to clear her name.Despite the circumstances, there are many hilarious moments and side comments to the reader. Emails from her parents are funny secondary stories that are not part of the main plot but are very amusing.
The Mystery itself is a good one . I did not guess correctly on the Who Done It".
I'd like to thank Kensington Publishing, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book. The book is published on 9/28/2021
While, yes there is a murder. and yes Jaine is a suspect so investigatesthe murder to clear her name.Despite the circumstances, there are many hilarious moments and side comments to the reader. Emails from her parents are funny secondary stories that are not part of the main plot but are very amusing.
The Mystery itself is a good one . I did not guess correctly on the Who Done It".
I'd like to thank Kensington Publishing, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book. The book is published on 9/28/2021
November 12, 2021
She is one of my favorite authors & this book is proof of why.
So many laugh out loud moments.
Can't wait for the next book.
So many laugh out loud moments.
Can't wait for the next book.
March 2, 2022
Absolutely love this gem of a series and author.
June 7, 2023
This was a really cute and fun part of the series.
September 27, 2021
This ARC was provided to me via Kindle by Kensington Books and #NetGalley for my honest opinion.
This series is getting a tad played out and boring. It’s not as enjoyable as it once was or other cozy series.
This series is getting a tad played out and boring. It’s not as enjoyable as it once was or other cozy series.
March 20, 2022
I know two books ago I said it was my last Jaine Austin book yet here I am.
For a positive, Laura Levin’s books are an easy and fun read. They’re short, simple, with an easy plot to follow.
My issue is after 18 books, Jaine should have evolved by now. I’m unsure of the direction Levin is going with her character and stories, but With this one Jaine became an unlikable character to me.
Lance was extremely selfish and rude, even moreso than usual. Jaine herself has no backbone and is completely obsessed with food to the point that it just looks unhealthy and not very funny anymore. She doesn’t seem to really focus on her job any longer, and her best friend is now out of the picture? (I had really liked her writer friend but she seems to be missing completely from this story!) She doesn’t even interact with her parents aside from the usual emails she gets from them in every book. And the real killer is very predictable, given Jaine’s track record with relationships with people (I’m being vague to avoid spoilers for anyone who may read this) which also seems weird that, at this point, she hasn’t gained any new friends since the beginning with everyone she meets.
After all this time, I wish Jaine would actually grow up as a character. She’s had zero character growth since the beginning and it would be nice to see her make herself better. And also maybe stop using childish words for sex like “whoopsie doodle” and “boffing”? No thirtysomething year old uses either of those words.
For a positive, Laura Levin’s books are an easy and fun read. They’re short, simple, with an easy plot to follow.
My issue is after 18 books, Jaine should have evolved by now. I’m unsure of the direction Levin is going with her character and stories, but With this one Jaine became an unlikable character to me.
Lance was extremely selfish and rude, even moreso than usual. Jaine herself has no backbone and is completely obsessed with food to the point that it just looks unhealthy and not very funny anymore. She doesn’t seem to really focus on her job any longer, and her best friend is now out of the picture? (I had really liked her writer friend but she seems to be missing completely from this story!) She doesn’t even interact with her parents aside from the usual emails she gets from them in every book. And the real killer is very predictable, given Jaine’s track record with relationships with people (I’m being vague to avoid spoilers for anyone who may read this) which also seems weird that, at this point, she hasn’t gained any new friends since the beginning with everyone she meets.
After all this time, I wish Jaine would actually grow up as a character. She’s had zero character growth since the beginning and it would be nice to see her make herself better. And also maybe stop using childish words for sex like “whoopsie doodle” and “boffing”? No thirtysomething year old uses either of those words.
October 13, 2021
As usual with the Jaine Austen books, I finished this in one sitting. I just can't help myself. When I start one I can never put it down until the end, they are all that good. Jaine is funny, smart and someone I could be best friends with. I wish she lived next door, or even here in town! The stories are light, laugh out loud funny, and most of the situations are relatable. I may have to go back to book one and start again. You can never have too much Jaine Austen! I highly recommend this book and this series!
October 26, 2021
This is book 18 in the Jaine Austen mystery series. All your favorites are back but you can read it as a stand alone if you somehow missed the first 17. Lance has arranged for Jaine to get a clothing/hair/etc makeover for free with famous Bebe. She's an obnoxious jerk who thinks Hollywood can't survive without her but someone doesn't care and kills her. Jaine finds the body and with the help of her cat Prozac helps the police find the killer since she's their main suspect. A quick easy read. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 28, 2021
The latest in this entertaining series will put a smile on your face and keep it there throughout. There is a murder mystery that will keep you guessing. Cat antics and emails from the parents add to the humor. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley.
November 3, 2021
Princess Fuzzypants here: Are you in need of some chuckles if not outright guffaws. This series with Jaine Austen and her cat Prozac is a sure fire antidote for whatever ails you. I have enjoyed each and every one of her adventures as the zaftig writer for hire tumbles into one zany situation after another. I am picky about how whacky I like my characters. Too much and I groan. Too little and they are just not funny. Jaine and Prozac hit the sweet spot.
This time her friend, Lance, has arranged for a makeover for fashion challenged Jaine with stylist Bebe. Bebe would make Cruella de Ville blush: she is vile to everyone including her husband and sister. One would think the cops would have a huge slew of potential suspects from all the people who hated her. But when Jaine discovers her body, succumbed by death by metal hanger, she becomes the prime one. Naturally she is determined to find the killer before she ends up behind bars. She does have a few things competing for her attention.
There is the ever present series of emails from her parents outlining her father’s most recent exploits. The man is certifiable. Then there is Prozac who, mistakenly, is lauded for saving the life of a toddler. Not only is Jane aware the act was not one of heroism but gluttony, Prozac is becoming more of a diva than normal. She is hilarious. And then dividing her time further are the affections of a younger, much younger, man who likes older, well padded woman.
It all works out in the end and Jaine brings the killer to justice but not before much humour interwoven with the mystery. I did, by the way, figure out the villain. It is, as always, a delightful romp that I can recommend highly. Five purrs and two paws up.
This time her friend, Lance, has arranged for a makeover for fashion challenged Jaine with stylist Bebe. Bebe would make Cruella de Ville blush: she is vile to everyone including her husband and sister. One would think the cops would have a huge slew of potential suspects from all the people who hated her. But when Jaine discovers her body, succumbed by death by metal hanger, she becomes the prime one. Naturally she is determined to find the killer before she ends up behind bars. She does have a few things competing for her attention.
There is the ever present series of emails from her parents outlining her father’s most recent exploits. The man is certifiable. Then there is Prozac who, mistakenly, is lauded for saving the life of a toddler. Not only is Jane aware the act was not one of heroism but gluttony, Prozac is becoming more of a diva than normal. She is hilarious. And then dividing her time further are the affections of a younger, much younger, man who likes older, well padded woman.
It all works out in the end and Jaine brings the killer to justice but not before much humour interwoven with the mystery. I did, by the way, figure out the villain. It is, as always, a delightful romp that I can recommend highly. Five purrs and two paws up.
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