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Murder by Month Mystery #12
April Fools
An alternative cover edition for this ASIN B07MLT8PV9 can be found here.
Librarian and aspiring PI Mira James has discovered one corpse a month for each of the eleven months she's lived in Battle Lake, Minnesota. She'd give her left foot to break that streak this April.
But when she stumbles across a disturbing note, and a Battle Lake girl vanishes, she has no choice except to get involved.
She follows the note's trail and is horrified to discover that it leads to her father, who died 13 years earlier. It's a race against the clock to crack the secret he carried to his grave in time to save the girl. Meanwhile, chiseled police chief Gary Wohnt is scrutinizing her every move, aching to finally put her behind bars, and Johnny, her sexy boyfriend, is planning a surprise for her. Problem is, she doesn't know if it's a marriage proposal or an intervention.
As Mrs. Berns and Mira take on their final case together, Mira discovers it's more personal than she could have imagined, and that she holds not only the life of the vanished girl but the fate of all Battle Lake in her hands.
April Fools is the twelfth in an ongoing series featuring Mira James, an urban woman with rural Minnesota roots. The books can be read in any order; each novel stands alone.
Librarian and aspiring PI Mira James has discovered one corpse a month for each of the eleven months she's lived in Battle Lake, Minnesota. She'd give her left foot to break that streak this April.
But when she stumbles across a disturbing note, and a Battle Lake girl vanishes, she has no choice except to get involved.
She follows the note's trail and is horrified to discover that it leads to her father, who died 13 years earlier. It's a race against the clock to crack the secret he carried to his grave in time to save the girl. Meanwhile, chiseled police chief Gary Wohnt is scrutinizing her every move, aching to finally put her behind bars, and Johnny, her sexy boyfriend, is planning a surprise for her. Problem is, she doesn't know if it's a marriage proposal or an intervention.
As Mrs. Berns and Mira take on their final case together, Mira discovers it's more personal than she could have imagined, and that she holds not only the life of the vanished girl but the fate of all Battle Lake in her hands.
April Fools is the twelfth in an ongoing series featuring Mira James, an urban woman with rural Minnesota roots. The books can be read in any order; each novel stands alone.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2019
1140 people are currently reading
6760 people want to read
About the author
Jess Lourey
49 books4,382 followersMy name is Jess Lourey, and I write about secrets.
The story of my first published novel is both devastating and transformative, something I speak about in my TEDx Talk (https://youtu.be/a5vSLh3oPXI). I've come a long way since then. I'm proud to call myself a bestselling, twice Edgar-nominated, and twice Goodreads Readers Choice Awards shortlisted author who has won the ITW Thriller, Minnesota Book, and Anthony Awards. I write crime fiction, young adult, nonfiction, children's books, and book club fiction.
I've reached over a million readers since 2020. I'm also a former writing and sociology professor who still loves to teach transformative creative writing workshops built around my Rewrite Your Life method.
I live in Minneapolis with a rotating batch of foster kittens (and occasional foster puppies, but man those goobers are a lot of work). Pop on over to Lourey's Literati, my VIP Reader group on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/groups/38538...) and/or sign up for my molasses newsletter (https://jessicalourey.com/newsletter) for the latest news, giveaways, and insider information.
p.s. You can find the Unspeakable Things epilogue here: https://jessicalourey.com/survey-two.
The story of my first published novel is both devastating and transformative, something I speak about in my TEDx Talk (https://youtu.be/a5vSLh3oPXI). I've come a long way since then. I'm proud to call myself a bestselling, twice Edgar-nominated, and twice Goodreads Readers Choice Awards shortlisted author who has won the ITW Thriller, Minnesota Book, and Anthony Awards. I write crime fiction, young adult, nonfiction, children's books, and book club fiction.
I've reached over a million readers since 2020. I'm also a former writing and sociology professor who still loves to teach transformative creative writing workshops built around my Rewrite Your Life method.
I live in Minneapolis with a rotating batch of foster kittens (and occasional foster puppies, but man those goobers are a lot of work). Pop on over to Lourey's Literati, my VIP Reader group on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/groups/38538...) and/or sign up for my molasses newsletter (https://jessicalourey.com/newsletter) for the latest news, giveaways, and insider information.
p.s. You can find the Unspeakable Things epilogue here: https://jessicalourey.com/survey-two.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 254 reviews
April 26, 2023
That did not end the way I thought it would. Mira and Mrs. Berns are undoubtedly a team, so that part is no surprise, but I was rooting for Gary Wohnt to replace Johnny in Mira's affections. I guess I should have guessed from his surname, which to me is pronounced “won't.“
Lourey wraps things up neatly, managing to restore Jed to his place in the community (and debunk the story of a Bigfoot in the area). Mira manages to hook up Karen Kramer with the inspector who is responsible for rating Battle Lake as a tourist destination, assuring that he feels very welcome in town. Kennie Rogers uses her mayoral powers for good instead of entirely for mischief (although there are enough pot infused foods to get Mira and Mrs. Berns into trouble a couple of times). All of this while dealing with a sex trafficking ring that is abducting teen girls. The situation is well described and reflects Lourey's concern with the people who prey on women and girls.
Just like Thomas King's DreadfulWater series, I will miss all these townsfolk and sidekicks every bit as much as the main character. So I was glad to read the note at the end that Lourey has written another novel featuring the same crew.
I have really enjoyed this series which seems to be Lourey in her fun setting. The only other book of hers that I've read (The Quarry Girls) just about did me in with tension and angst! Unfortunately I didn't get started until the November volume, so I may backtrack and read the earlier books that I skipped. More Mrs. Berns is always a good thing!
Lourey wraps things up neatly, managing to restore Jed to his place in the community (and debunk the story of a Bigfoot in the area). Mira manages to hook up Karen Kramer with the inspector who is responsible for rating Battle Lake as a tourist destination, assuring that he feels very welcome in town. Kennie Rogers uses her mayoral powers for good instead of entirely for mischief (although there are enough pot infused foods to get Mira and Mrs. Berns into trouble a couple of times). All of this while dealing with a sex trafficking ring that is abducting teen girls. The situation is well described and reflects Lourey's concern with the people who prey on women and girls.
Just like Thomas King's DreadfulWater series, I will miss all these townsfolk and sidekicks every bit as much as the main character. So I was glad to read the note at the end that Lourey has written another novel featuring the same crew.
I have really enjoyed this series which seems to be Lourey in her fun setting. The only other book of hers that I've read (The Quarry Girls) just about did me in with tension and angst! Unfortunately I didn't get started until the November volume, so I may backtrack and read the earlier books that I skipped. More Mrs. Berns is always a good thing!
March 2, 2025
Book Review: April Fools by Jess Lourey
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
First off, big thanks to NetGalley for the free copy in exchange for an honest review!
April Fools is the sixth book in Jess Lourey’s Murder by Month series, following Mira James, a journalist turned sleuth who keeps stumbling into mysteries in small town Minnesota. This time around, it’s April, and she’s investigating a missing person case that, of course, turns into something much bigger (and more dangerous) than she expected.
I really liked Mira as a character, she’s funny, relatable, and definitely the kind of person I’d want to grab coffee with. The small town setting was also super charming, and Lourey does a great job balancing humor with suspense. Some of the twists were pretty solid, and the book kept me engaged for the most part.
That said, I had a few issues. The pacing was a little off, especially in the middle, and some parts felt repetitive. The mystery itself wasn’t as gripping as I’d hoped, and I saw a couple of the twists coming. I also felt like some of the side characters weren’t as developed as they could have been, which made it hard to really care about their involvement in the story.
Overall, April Fools is a fun, light mystery with a quirky main character and a good dose of humor. It’s not groundbreaking, but if you like cozy mysteries with a little snark, it’s worth checking out!
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
First off, big thanks to NetGalley for the free copy in exchange for an honest review!
April Fools is the sixth book in Jess Lourey’s Murder by Month series, following Mira James, a journalist turned sleuth who keeps stumbling into mysteries in small town Minnesota. This time around, it’s April, and she’s investigating a missing person case that, of course, turns into something much bigger (and more dangerous) than she expected.
I really liked Mira as a character, she’s funny, relatable, and definitely the kind of person I’d want to grab coffee with. The small town setting was also super charming, and Lourey does a great job balancing humor with suspense. Some of the twists were pretty solid, and the book kept me engaged for the most part.
That said, I had a few issues. The pacing was a little off, especially in the middle, and some parts felt repetitive. The mystery itself wasn’t as gripping as I’d hoped, and I saw a couple of the twists coming. I also felt like some of the side characters weren’t as developed as they could have been, which made it hard to really care about their involvement in the story.
Overall, April Fools is a fun, light mystery with a quirky main character and a good dose of humor. It’s not groundbreaking, but if you like cozy mysteries with a little snark, it’s worth checking out!
April 29, 2019
To start with, I received an ebook copy through Goodreads for this review (my first Goodreads giveaway win! Hoorah!)
Also, though this title is the 12th in a 12th part series, I've only read one previously: "October Fest" (Book 6). So I kind of jumped in at the middle and resumed at the very end. The first one I read...didn't really send me. But I was willing to give the benefit of the doubt; there could very well be improvement after eight years (publication-wise). In any case, the writing keeps you up-to-speed with characters and relationships in case you haven't read all or any of the others. I didn't feel "lost" at all having not read the rest of the series.
Overall, I don't think this is the book for me. I was in it for the library-related content, but other than a clue tied to the last patron who returned a book (which could raise privacy concerns, but maybe I'm putting too much thought into this), the library setting seems to be just that - little more than the place where the main characters happen to go during the day. Maybe there's more library-ness in any of the other ten books in the series and I chose the wrong ones.
Another reason this series isn't for me... is that there is definitely an aim towards - how should I put this - people who are into reading about sexy guys. The heroine spends a substantial amount of time thinking about how much she loves her sexy boyfriend, and how hot and perfect he is, kind of to the point where it gets a little embarrassing. The more interesting relationship is the professional one on the crime-solving side of things. How often is an adult woman partnered with a much older woman?
Then there's the humor. It's also...not for me. Occasionally there's a funny turn of phrase that gives me a smile - I highlighted the phrase "as ugly as the first pancake," for example - but for the most part the comedy is situational. To give you an idea of what I mean, pot-laced snacks do play into the antics, and yes, they are ingested accidentally.
I was ready to be more unrestrained and sarcastic in my review until I read the very end notes which explain Jess Lourey's reason for getting into writing in the first place. I thought, "I can't give this a Book Sins nitpicks treatment." After all, it is a cozy mystery. It did make for good, relaxed bedtime reading.
[Note: I accidentally posted a very partial version of this review because I didn't realize the notes section had a character limit. The above is my "real" full review.]
Also, though this title is the 12th in a 12th part series, I've only read one previously: "October Fest" (Book 6). So I kind of jumped in at the middle and resumed at the very end. The first one I read...didn't really send me. But I was willing to give the benefit of the doubt; there could very well be improvement after eight years (publication-wise). In any case, the writing keeps you up-to-speed with characters and relationships in case you haven't read all or any of the others. I didn't feel "lost" at all having not read the rest of the series.
Overall, I don't think this is the book for me. I was in it for the library-related content, but other than a clue tied to the last patron who returned a book (which could raise privacy concerns, but maybe I'm putting too much thought into this), the library setting seems to be just that - little more than the place where the main characters happen to go during the day. Maybe there's more library-ness in any of the other ten books in the series and I chose the wrong ones.
Another reason this series isn't for me... is that there is definitely an aim towards - how should I put this - people who are into reading about sexy guys. The heroine spends a substantial amount of time thinking about how much she loves her sexy boyfriend, and how hot and perfect he is, kind of to the point where it gets a little embarrassing. The more interesting relationship is the professional one on the crime-solving side of things. How often is an adult woman partnered with a much older woman?
Then there's the humor. It's also...not for me. Occasionally there's a funny turn of phrase that gives me a smile - I highlighted the phrase "as ugly as the first pancake," for example - but for the most part the comedy is situational. To give you an idea of what I mean, pot-laced snacks do play into the antics, and yes, they are ingested accidentally.
I was ready to be more unrestrained and sarcastic in my review until I read the very end notes which explain Jess Lourey's reason for getting into writing in the first place. I thought, "I can't give this a Book Sins nitpicks treatment." After all, it is a cozy mystery. It did make for good, relaxed bedtime reading.
[Note: I accidentally posted a very partial version of this review because I didn't realize the notes section had a character limit. The above is my "real" full review.]
January 9, 2022
Goodreads, I want to be able to give zero stars.
What a sloppy, half-assed ending to an otherwise fun series. There were small but glaring mistakes, characters swapped personalities, back stories changed, it's almost like the author was OVER the series and didn't bother to edit. The series subject matter (sex trafficking of underage girls) didn't match the fun, flip tone of most of the book making it for a jarring read at times.
But most galling was the fact that the ENTIRE 11th BOOK IN THE SERIES APPARETNLY NEVER HAPPENED. It had some pretty major stuff in it: Johnny broke up with Mira; a guy tried to murder Mira by tying her up in the library and setting the building on fire; the police chief shot out a window to save her life and held her and cried because he (SO VERY OBVIOUSLY) is in love with her. Yet none of that stuff is even addressed and life goes on as if it was some fever dream. I would've questioned my sanity if I hadn't just finished the 11th book minutes before starting this one. I wonder if the author didn't realize she threw in too much "big crap" too close to the end of the series and had no way to resolve everything in one book, or if she just didn't care. (Or if she hates her readers?) And then to add insult to injury (and take away any stakes the series might had), a character is improbably brought back to life. Just so Mira could have her perfect, happy ending.
What a sloppy, half-assed ending to an otherwise fun series. There were small but glaring mistakes, characters swapped personalities, back stories changed, it's almost like the author was OVER the series and didn't bother to edit. The series subject matter (sex trafficking of underage girls) didn't match the fun, flip tone of most of the book making it for a jarring read at times.
But most galling was the fact that the ENTIRE 11th BOOK IN THE SERIES APPARETNLY NEVER HAPPENED. It had some pretty major stuff in it: Johnny broke up with Mira; a guy tried to murder Mira by tying her up in the library and setting the building on fire; the police chief shot out a window to save her life and held her and cried because he (SO VERY OBVIOUSLY) is in love with her. Yet none of that stuff is even addressed and life goes on as if it was some fever dream. I would've questioned my sanity if I hadn't just finished the 11th book minutes before starting this one. I wonder if the author didn't realize she threw in too much "big crap" too close to the end of the series and had no way to resolve everything in one book, or if she just didn't care. (Or if she hates her readers?) And then to add insult to injury (and take away any stakes the series might had), a character is improbably brought back to life. Just so Mira could have her perfect, happy ending.
May 13, 2025
Entertaining mystery listening 😙🌜
This kindle ebook novel is from my Kindle Unlimited account book 12 of 12
Girls are going missing from the area. She finds one and rescues her. There is a murder of a suspect. Another girl 😏 goes missing! She is kidnapped! There everything comes together leading to arrest and a happy ending 😮.
I would recommend this series and author to readers of romantic family and friends relationships mystery novels 👨❤️💋👨🐕 2025 🐈👒
This kindle ebook novel is from my Kindle Unlimited account book 12 of 12
Girls are going missing from the area. She finds one and rescues her. There is a murder of a suspect. Another girl 😏 goes missing! She is kidnapped! There everything comes together leading to arrest and a happy ending 😮.
I would recommend this series and author to readers of romantic family and friends relationships mystery novels 👨❤️💋👨🐕 2025 🐈👒
July 16, 2020
What. In. The. Hell?
Did the author just decide to handwave away March of Crime? Jed's body was found and they had a (closed casket) funeral. Mira almost died, saved by the chief of police who clutched her to him and sobbed. Johnny walked away from her.
Oops. Never mind. This is not the story you were looking for so we'll pretend none of that actually happened.
On its own, April Fools is a good story. It's the last in the series and brings back remembrances of all the previous escapades (except, of course, March's) and the goofy cast of characters. It also tackles a very real problem - sex trafficking. Mrs. Berns is accused of murder. Johnny and Gary are having a pissing contest over Mira, though Mira has no clue. Kennie has a decent business idea. A Chick Club is established to help girls see their worth.
It's still raunchy in places, has some agenda items, and makes you giggle at times. But completely disregarding the events of the previous book in the series is unforgiveable.
Did the author just decide to handwave away March of Crime? Jed's body was found and they had a (closed casket) funeral. Mira almost died, saved by the chief of police who clutched her to him and sobbed. Johnny walked away from her.
Oops. Never mind. This is not the story you were looking for so we'll pretend none of that actually happened.
On its own, April Fools is a good story. It's the last in the series and brings back remembrances of all the previous escapades (except, of course, March's) and the goofy cast of characters. It also tackles a very real problem - sex trafficking. Mrs. Berns is accused of murder. Johnny and Gary are having a pissing contest over Mira, though Mira has no clue. Kennie has a decent business idea. A Chick Club is established to help girls see their worth.
It's still raunchy in places, has some agenda items, and makes you giggle at times. But completely disregarding the events of the previous book in the series is unforgiveable.
March 2, 2019
Sadly this is the last in an excellent series that has kept me entertained for a good while
Mira James and Mrs Berns make a great team, whether practicing their martial art, “toe can do” as Mrs B calls is, or investigating the rather large amount of crime in tiny Battle Lake. (Which is about to end up on a list of ten worst places to live, due in no small part to those corpses Mira keeps finding)
Jess Laurey has managed once again to witte a page turner, generously sprinkled with humor, romance, and small town bonhomie.
Mira James and Mrs Berns make a great team, whether practicing their martial art, “toe can do” as Mrs B calls is, or investigating the rather large amount of crime in tiny Battle Lake. (Which is about to end up on a list of ten worst places to live, due in no small part to those corpses Mira keeps finding)
Jess Laurey has managed once again to witte a page turner, generously sprinkled with humor, romance, and small town bonhomie.
April 2, 2025
My first in the Murder by the Month Romcom Series ( I know,...I'm SO out of order here and know some spoilers now,..) and I LOVED IT.
This series has everything I love:
Cozy mystery
Romantic humor that had me giggling out loud in a coffee shop (many judgey remote workers were displeased)
A plucky FMC
Mira James, aspiring PI, is thrown into the chaos when she finds the word- HELP -scribbled inside an old book. She's thrown into a case that seems to have throw backs to many of her previous adventures, and for a reader that probably followed all these characters over the years- I bet it was heartwarming and fun to relive those adventures.
I will be reading these backwards now, because I guess I love chaos too, just like Mira. I'm looking forward to more in series, so a thank you to NetGalley for the chance to read this one and be introduced to a whole new world of fun rom-com mysteries!
This series has everything I love:
Cozy mystery
Romantic humor that had me giggling out loud in a coffee shop (many judgey remote workers were displeased)
A plucky FMC
Mira James, aspiring PI, is thrown into the chaos when she finds the word- HELP -scribbled inside an old book. She's thrown into a case that seems to have throw backs to many of her previous adventures, and for a reader that probably followed all these characters over the years- I bet it was heartwarming and fun to relive those adventures.
I will be reading these backwards now, because I guess I love chaos too, just like Mira. I'm looking forward to more in series, so a thank you to NetGalley for the chance to read this one and be introduced to a whole new world of fun rom-com mysteries!
April 4, 2025
I loved this mystery. I dropped into this series in the middle and I loved it so much. I had a great time with the characters. The writing was well done, though the mystery elements weren't brand new. It was a romp to read.
March 29, 2019
Thank you Toadhouse Books and Netgalley for allowing me to find my new favorite cozy mystery book series! I came across this book after wondering if there was a cozy mystery series that had a month/holiday theme, and I didn't realize this was the last book of the series. Not to spoil too much, but I have definitely put 2 of the other 11 books on hold at the library!
CW: Murder, Sex Trafficking
April Fools (Murder by Mystery Month #12)
by Jess Lourey
Published : April 2019
Read : March 2019
Format : ebook ARC
Genre : Cozy Mystery
Page Count : 255 pages
Rating :
5/5 Moose
Synopsis
Mira James has come across a murdered body every month for the last 11 months. It has cost her one of her best friends, and it might cost her town their "Best Small Town" status. And she is willing to break the streak....until she finds a note in a library book that is literally asking for help.
Characters
Mira James - our amateur detective main character. She is a librarian and a journalist with a troubled background and a knack for finding dead bodies.
Mrs. Berns - our plucky side kick. An 80+ year old bad ass who takes tae kwon do, has the best quips, and also has her own troubled past.
Rants, Raves, and Thoughts
THIS IS THE COZY MYSTERY SERIES I HAVE BEEN MISSING. I mean, I love cozy mysteries, but I don't...expect much from them. They are great palette cleansers, and I do genuinely enjoy them! To the point that I go through waves on netgalley requesting some or through Overdrive looking for some. But I don't necessarily LOVE any of them.
Until now.
This books has shown me that Lourey has taken a well known genre and updated it. There are drug references, her father is quite possibly a terrible person, there is diversity in characters and sexuality, and at least for this book, it isn't explicitly JUST a murder! In fact I hit 50% on my Kindle and realized there hadn't been a murder yet, but I wasn't put off by this? So much was going on showing everything that Mira had gone through, especially after losing one of her best friends six weeks before. The story is also very "of its time" - it in part is a #metoo thought piece. But it also serves to bring awareness to something I personally hadn't realize: it isn't just the states that border the ocean that have a sex trafficking issue. Minnesota is actually on the top 10 list of states with the highest sex trafficking problems. That is not something I had ever thought possible, and the book does a great job of showing how it can be something overlooked.
Lourey can build characters too. I may not remember all of the small town cast, but I can tell you that Mrs. Berns comes across as more three dimensional than most "side kicks." She's also exactly who I want to be when I am 80 years old. The men are written a little two dimensional, but I am chalking that up to not having full knowledge of the entire series. Plus, the love stories and triangles of cozy mysteries aren't what I read them for. I am genuinely shocked with how it turns out (again, no other book to have me swaying either way). And honestly? Lourey had me crying over a character that I had never met who died two books ago.
She even had me putting non-comic books on hold at the library. What is that?
Finally, the portrayal of the teenage girls. So many adults (myself included oh god) want to help prepare the next generation for what they need to look out for. How to look out for gross dudes. How to stand up for themselves. But the actuality is, they know already. They are still going to make the stupidest decisions, but they're more aware than we give them credit. And these teenage girls are written realistically. Yes they love their cell phones and yes they aren't quite ready to tell you the whole truth. But they aren't vapid and airheads. And they will fight for what they believe to be right.
Also, I am 100% on board if the next series is all about Maisy and Peaches: Teenage Detectives.
Final Moments
Honestly, I cannot wait for the other books to come in. If I like one more, I'll buy the entire series for when I need a good cozy mystery. I mean, how many of them have multiple scenes of an 80 year old woman getting high on edibles?
-
CW: Murder, Sex Trafficking
April Fools (Murder by Mystery Month #12)
by Jess Lourey
Published : April 2019
Read : March 2019
Format : ebook ARC
Genre : Cozy Mystery
Page Count : 255 pages
Rating :
5/5 MooseSynopsis
Mira James has come across a murdered body every month for the last 11 months. It has cost her one of her best friends, and it might cost her town their "Best Small Town" status. And she is willing to break the streak....until she finds a note in a library book that is literally asking for help.
Characters
Mira James - our amateur detective main character. She is a librarian and a journalist with a troubled background and a knack for finding dead bodies.
Mrs. Berns - our plucky side kick. An 80+ year old bad ass who takes tae kwon do, has the best quips, and also has her own troubled past.
Rants, Raves, and Thoughts
THIS IS THE COZY MYSTERY SERIES I HAVE BEEN MISSING. I mean, I love cozy mysteries, but I don't...expect much from them. They are great palette cleansers, and I do genuinely enjoy them! To the point that I go through waves on netgalley requesting some or through Overdrive looking for some. But I don't necessarily LOVE any of them.
Until now.
This books has shown me that Lourey has taken a well known genre and updated it. There are drug references, her father is quite possibly a terrible person, there is diversity in characters and sexuality, and at least for this book, it isn't explicitly JUST a murder! In fact I hit 50% on my Kindle and realized there hadn't been a murder yet, but I wasn't put off by this? So much was going on showing everything that Mira had gone through, especially after losing one of her best friends six weeks before. The story is also very "of its time" - it in part is a #metoo thought piece. But it also serves to bring awareness to something I personally hadn't realize: it isn't just the states that border the ocean that have a sex trafficking issue. Minnesota is actually on the top 10 list of states with the highest sex trafficking problems. That is not something I had ever thought possible, and the book does a great job of showing how it can be something overlooked.
Lourey can build characters too. I may not remember all of the small town cast, but I can tell you that Mrs. Berns comes across as more three dimensional than most "side kicks." She's also exactly who I want to be when I am 80 years old. The men are written a little two dimensional, but I am chalking that up to not having full knowledge of the entire series. Plus, the love stories and triangles of cozy mysteries aren't what I read them for. I am genuinely shocked with how it turns out (again, no other book to have me swaying either way). And honestly? Lourey had me crying over a character that I had never met who died two books ago.
She even had me putting non-comic books on hold at the library. What is that?
Finally, the portrayal of the teenage girls. So many adults (myself included oh god) want to help prepare the next generation for what they need to look out for. How to look out for gross dudes. How to stand up for themselves. But the actuality is, they know already. They are still going to make the stupidest decisions, but they're more aware than we give them credit. And these teenage girls are written realistically. Yes they love their cell phones and yes they aren't quite ready to tell you the whole truth. But they aren't vapid and airheads. And they will fight for what they believe to be right.
Also, I am 100% on board if the next series is all about Maisy and Peaches: Teenage Detectives.
She was wearing a ripped pair of Levi's with a Led Zeppelin t-shirt knotted at her tummy and black Cons on her feet. [...]
My heart swelled so big it almost cracked. "May I ask what the four of you are dressed up as?"
"Superheroes," Angelina said, grinning.
Final Moments
Honestly, I cannot wait for the other books to come in. If I like one more, I'll buy the entire series for when I need a good cozy mystery. I mean, how many of them have multiple scenes of an 80 year old woman getting high on edibles?
Plus, Mrs. Berns legitimately stopped to full-on hug four different trees.
-
August 19, 2019
I was mixed about this one. I was little sad it was the last adventure, I’ve gotten familiar with the characters and all their mysteries. I was glad Jed came back though that seemed far fetched - didn’t he fall off a train into mountains or something? This was the first book that I actually didn’t really want her to end up with Johnny. Their relationship turned annoying and maybe it was too much back and forth and I was tired of that. I actually wanted to see what developed between her and the chief and suddenly she decides she loves Johnny and chooses him. All that unspoken something between her and the chief poof gone with a “we’ll be just fine” joke. Overall I really enjoyed the series, it kept my attention and I learned to like most of the characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2025
This was my first murder by month and my first Jess Lourey book, and I found this story fun and cozy.
A small town, loveable characters and a string of mysterious events it's hard to hate a book like this. I found it hard to get into, and it took me quite a while to figure out what the main conflict of this book was, but once I got about 50% of the way through it I devoured the rest. My favourite part of this story was the characters; they were funny, and while I didn't have a lot of the context to their relationships from the previous books, I was still able to understand and enjoy their interactions.
This book was the last installment of the "Murder by Month" series, and while I would definitely suggest reading the previous books first, this book also performed well as a stand alone!
Over all a good cozy read.
I would recommend checking the trigger warnings for this book as well as there are some pretty dark/heavy themes in the story.
A small town, loveable characters and a string of mysterious events it's hard to hate a book like this. I found it hard to get into, and it took me quite a while to figure out what the main conflict of this book was, but once I got about 50% of the way through it I devoured the rest. My favourite part of this story was the characters; they were funny, and while I didn't have a lot of the context to their relationships from the previous books, I was still able to understand and enjoy their interactions.
This book was the last installment of the "Murder by Month" series, and while I would definitely suggest reading the previous books first, this book also performed well as a stand alone!
Over all a good cozy read.
I would recommend checking the trigger warnings for this book as well as there are some pretty dark/heavy themes in the story.
March 29, 2025
This may be my favorite of this series so far. (I have a couple left to read). Jess Lourey writes with a perfect mix of humor to get you laughing out loud, mystery to keep you wondering, and suspense to get you at the edge of your seat, with a cozy small-town feel that I enjoy. Great characters, as well!
March 4, 2025
Another fantastic installment to the series. The mystery in this book series is as unique as the previous ones. I was eagerly anticipating to read April Fools and I was not disappointed one bit. The characters are so well written that they feel like they are real.
November 24, 2021
Five things:
- Missing children
- Trafficking
- Small town
- Librarian MC
- Love triangle?
- Missing children
- Trafficking
- Small town
- Librarian MC
- Love triangle?
February 13, 2022
This book was a wonderful way to end the series - a couple surprises.
May 1, 2023
I read one book each month for the year and am so happy I found this series. I enjoyed the ending and am sad to be at the end... I will be looking into more of this authors books.
April 5, 2025
Very enjoyable series!!
April 17, 2025
eBook + Audio
Fiction / Mystery / Cozy Mystery / Humor / Romance / Audiobook
Story: ⭐⭐⭐/5 Narration: 🎧 🎧 🎧/5
I kept forgetting it was a mystery because of all the other drama in the story. I am not a fan of "he is mean cause he likes you" at any age. I don't think this was is for me.
Fiction / Mystery / Cozy Mystery / Humor / Romance / Audiobook
Story: ⭐⭐⭐/5 Narration: 🎧 🎧 🎧/5
I kept forgetting it was a mystery because of all the other drama in the story. I am not a fan of "he is mean cause he likes you" at any age. I don't think this was is for me.
May 1, 2025
Great final book in the series! Love these characters and how things wrapped up.
July 4, 2025
Lol maybe don't start at the end of a series. BUTTT it does take place in MN. Very cutesy murder mystery
April 18, 2025
Thank you to @brilliancepublishing and @netgalley for my gifted copy!
This was the third book in the Murder by Month series that I have listened to and definitely my favorite so far! There are 12 total books and this is the last one, but I have listened to random ones and all totally out of order while still being able to 100% follow the plot. These are quick & humorous reads that are great palate cleansers or just good if you’re looking for a light book!
I’ve said in my other reviews that I know Mrs. Berns is written to be a hilarious octogenarian sidekick, but she’s just too over the top for me. I will say that I liked her better in this book—or maybe she’s just growing on me 🤷🏻♀️ Either way, I do like her and Mira’s unconventional friendship!
The mystery in this one was my favorite yet, especially with how it ties into Mira’s personal life. It was a dark topic, but I felt Lourey did a good job of using humor to deflect this and not make it feel heavy.
Book 12 does tie up loose ends, and I will say Mira’s romance subplot did not go the way I expected (or frankly, wanted, but it’s all good). This story feels like a satisfying conclusion for everything, but also a little sad. 🥲
🎧The narrator is the same one who does all of the audiobooks in this series, and she does what I would consider a good and adequate job. A bit overacted at times, but nothing that I felt detracted from the story.
This was the third book in the Murder by Month series that I have listened to and definitely my favorite so far! There are 12 total books and this is the last one, but I have listened to random ones and all totally out of order while still being able to 100% follow the plot. These are quick & humorous reads that are great palate cleansers or just good if you’re looking for a light book!
I’ve said in my other reviews that I know Mrs. Berns is written to be a hilarious octogenarian sidekick, but she’s just too over the top for me. I will say that I liked her better in this book—or maybe she’s just growing on me 🤷🏻♀️ Either way, I do like her and Mira’s unconventional friendship!
The mystery in this one was my favorite yet, especially with how it ties into Mira’s personal life. It was a dark topic, but I felt Lourey did a good job of using humor to deflect this and not make it feel heavy.
Book 12 does tie up loose ends, and I will say Mira’s romance subplot did not go the way I expected (or frankly, wanted, but it’s all good). This story feels like a satisfying conclusion for everything, but also a little sad. 🥲
🎧The narrator is the same one who does all of the audiobooks in this series, and she does what I would consider a good and adequate job. A bit overacted at times, but nothing that I felt detracted from the story.
March 9, 2019
Mira James -- oh how I have missed you and Mrs. Berns! Author Jess Lourey winds up (say it isn't so!) her Mira James Murder by Month Mystery series with a humdinger. Librarian Mira James and her sidekick Mrs. Berns find themselves in the thick of things again in Battle Creek, Minnesota. Will there be a murder (undoubtedly) and will Mira be involved somehow (absolutely).
The beloved characters of Battle Creek all make an entrance as the mystery unfolds and once again I found myself giggling and laughing out loud at their antics. While murder is never a good thing it is a very entertaining tale with just enough touches of reality and current events to keep it real and (somewhat) believable.
Lourey's characters are so well written and by the 12th novel I find that I am having a difficult time saying goodbye to them. I am hoping that they all speak to her again and make a reappearance somewhere down the road for all of the die hard Mira James fans out there.
Per normal Jess Lourey shares the page turner that I have come to expect from her and I loved this book as much as the first one I read - May Day. If you are new to the series I urge you to get a copy of each and every one for your own library. You won't regret it.
I was thrilled and honored to receive an ARC of this book for review purposes. It, and Jess Lourey, definitely did not disappoint.
The beloved characters of Battle Creek all make an entrance as the mystery unfolds and once again I found myself giggling and laughing out loud at their antics. While murder is never a good thing it is a very entertaining tale with just enough touches of reality and current events to keep it real and (somewhat) believable.
Lourey's characters are so well written and by the 12th novel I find that I am having a difficult time saying goodbye to them. I am hoping that they all speak to her again and make a reappearance somewhere down the road for all of the die hard Mira James fans out there.
Per normal Jess Lourey shares the page turner that I have come to expect from her and I loved this book as much as the first one I read - May Day. If you are new to the series I urge you to get a copy of each and every one for your own library. You won't regret it.
I was thrilled and honored to receive an ARC of this book for review purposes. It, and Jess Lourey, definitely did not disappoint.
November 17, 2021
After reading the whole series, i have to say I really enjoyed the series….. Mostly. However, this book seemed to completely forget the happenings in the previous book!
Overall, Mira and Mrs Berns were great as were the support characters of Jed and Curtis. I felt that lack of characterization of Johnny led me to believe that he was a temporary fixture in Mira’s life. He was sweet and “too good”. But he never had a thing to say to Mira about all of her dangerous situations and you never really got a feel for his emotions or their relationship other than they were sexually combustible and compatible.
Furthermore, I really thought that the police chief was going to move in as a love interest. Previous books led us to believe this… Mira’s visit after he was shot, then the info about him saving Mira from the fire and being by her side in the hospital for days… where was Johnny? I was hoping Gary would push forward as a love interest. I was looking forward to that development! Gary seemed much more suited to Mira, and his emotions were more apparent than Johnny’s. His character was better developed as was the relationship and interaction between him and Mira. Needless to say, I was disappointed that Mira didn’t wind up with the chief, (her Chief Wenonga statue look-alike).
Overall, Mira and Mrs Berns were great as were the support characters of Jed and Curtis. I felt that lack of characterization of Johnny led me to believe that he was a temporary fixture in Mira’s life. He was sweet and “too good”. But he never had a thing to say to Mira about all of her dangerous situations and you never really got a feel for his emotions or their relationship other than they were sexually combustible and compatible.
Furthermore, I really thought that the police chief was going to move in as a love interest. Previous books led us to believe this… Mira’s visit after he was shot, then the info about him saving Mira from the fire and being by her side in the hospital for days… where was Johnny? I was hoping Gary would push forward as a love interest. I was looking forward to that development! Gary seemed much more suited to Mira, and his emotions were more apparent than Johnny’s. His character was better developed as was the relationship and interaction between him and Mira. Needless to say, I was disappointed that Mira didn’t wind up with the chief, (her Chief Wenonga statue look-alike).
April 7, 2024
Spoilers
I'm not sure what to say. I devoured all 12 novels in a month. The unexpected development of Gary's attraction was like nothing I've really read before. And I've read a lot. The short scenes between Mira and Gary sizzled with an electricity that was palpable, leading up to the ending of March of Crimes, the library fire and Gary crying over Mira's body. The short description of what he was like after the fire and Mira's acknowledgment that something between then had changed. Then absolutely none of that was even mentioned in the next book. Like literally. The entire library burned down, Gary saved her life, and NONE of that of that was mentioned. He wouldn't leave her side after the fire, but we didn't even get that fleshed out. Nothing. As an author, why even the the time setting this up at all?
I don't understand why Jess Lourey would even bother making Gary a potential love interest, to have the wonderful scenes that she wrote, only to have a throw away line at the end of this book, the entirety of wrapping up their arc, that they'd be "just fine", even after she finally saw his attraction to her, and she's admitted multiple times her attraction? Johnny as a gladiator? Storming in front of Mira to declare that he'd fight Gary for her? In public, after he'd already presumably talked to Gary in private? None of it made sense. None of the setup that for multiple books appeared to be so strategically planned. Kennie ending up with Brad? Johnny and Mira finally breaking up? Then no payoff after the build-up with Gary? I just don't understand. I don't think I've ever been so disappointed in the ending of a book, let alone a 12 book series. Sigh. I mean, why even bother. I know it's just a book, but I feel an actual physical letdown.
I'm not sure what to say. I devoured all 12 novels in a month. The unexpected development of Gary's attraction was like nothing I've really read before. And I've read a lot. The short scenes between Mira and Gary sizzled with an electricity that was palpable, leading up to the ending of March of Crimes, the library fire and Gary crying over Mira's body. The short description of what he was like after the fire and Mira's acknowledgment that something between then had changed. Then absolutely none of that was even mentioned in the next book. Like literally. The entire library burned down, Gary saved her life, and NONE of that of that was mentioned. He wouldn't leave her side after the fire, but we didn't even get that fleshed out. Nothing. As an author, why even the the time setting this up at all?
I don't understand why Jess Lourey would even bother making Gary a potential love interest, to have the wonderful scenes that she wrote, only to have a throw away line at the end of this book, the entirety of wrapping up their arc, that they'd be "just fine", even after she finally saw his attraction to her, and she's admitted multiple times her attraction? Johnny as a gladiator? Storming in front of Mira to declare that he'd fight Gary for her? In public, after he'd already presumably talked to Gary in private? None of it made sense. None of the setup that for multiple books appeared to be so strategically planned. Kennie ending up with Brad? Johnny and Mira finally breaking up? Then no payoff after the build-up with Gary? I just don't understand. I don't think I've ever been so disappointed in the ending of a book, let alone a 12 book series. Sigh. I mean, why even bother. I know it's just a book, but I feel an actual physical letdown.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2019
I'm sad that this is the end of the year for Mira. April Fools does a nice job of wrapping everything up. For me the mystery in this final book played a background role to my enjoyment of new time spent with great characters. I love that Kennie Rogers wasn't made into a villain as she could have been and that she and Mira maintain a sometimes tense but always hilarious friendship. I also appreciated Mrs. Berns's arc through the series: not just comic relief but a thoughtful and loyal friend. Fans of the Murder by Month series will enjoy this one.
(I have to add, though, that I was distracted for a good long time at the start of reading by the fact that while the library was burned to a crisp in March, this fact is never mentioned in April. They must do some mighty fast repairs in Battle Lake.)
I received an advance copy of this book, in exchange for my review (but I also bought the book, because I really like this series!)
(I have to add, though, that I was distracted for a good long time at the start of reading by the fact that while the library was burned to a crisp in March, this fact is never mentioned in April. They must do some mighty fast repairs in Battle Lake.)
I received an advance copy of this book, in exchange for my review (but I also bought the book, because I really like this series!)
September 29, 2019
A nice end to a good series, although I have to confess that I was not thrilled with her boyfriend choice at the end. I was totally Team Gary and thought Johnny was too meek. He did seem to come around at the end, and Mira seem to finally get some sense. She has made some poor choices throughout the series. Sad to know that her father’s background was even worse than the way his life had ended. Look forward to see what she writes in the future and whether she does continue with some short stories for Mira and Mrs. Berns as indicated in the authors note. I really hate to say goodbye to all these neat characters of Battle Lake.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2021
Loved this book. So sad that it is the last one in the series. But I haven’t read the first one, May Day so I still have one more to go. This one is a little far fetched with Jed magically turning up back in Battle Lake. There are girls disappearing near and in Battle Lake and Mira finds a clue that may connect her dad to the kidnappings. Kind of sad Mira didn’t end up with Gary. I am going to miss these characters. B
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2021
Cute, cozy mystery where the protagonist does some silly things but not as far-fetched as other cozy mystery heroines.
Update: I'm taking off a star after finishing all the other books in the series. The main reason is that I am not quite sure what happened between writing the previous book and this one. There was no continuity in what happened at the end of March of Crimes and how this book began concerning some pretty major aspects of the series.
Update: I'm taking off a star after finishing all the other books in the series. The main reason is that I am not quite sure what happened between writing the previous book and this one. There was no continuity in what happened at the end of March of Crimes and how this book began concerning some pretty major aspects of the series.
July 22, 2022
Fun Minnesota cozy series
A satisfying conclusion to a cute series. I grew up in Minnesota so the setting is familiar. A great cast of characters. The love triangle wasn't really which was good. I'm going to miss Mira and company.
A satisfying conclusion to a cute series. I grew up in Minnesota so the setting is familiar. A great cast of characters. The love triangle wasn't really which was good. I'm going to miss Mira and company.
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