Fall Reading 2016 Jamie Quinn Mystery Collection

Jamie Quinn may only be 5'2", but she packs a lot into that petite body. Although she is a family lawyer, she seems destined to be embroiled in danger and intrigue. Whether it is her cousin being accused of murder, the husband of a client dying of an overdose, or her boyfriend being stalked by a sinister figure - Jamie is sure to be in the thick of it. She isn't in it alone though, because she has a collection of friends and acquaintances that become involved along with her. Jamie's best friend and fellow lawyer Grace helps with her contacts in D.C. and legal smarts. Her former client and friend Duke lends his P.I. expertise as it is needed. 

Author Barbara Venkataraman has created an engaging character in Jamie Quinn. She has so many adorable quirks. Her insomnia, her grouchy cat, her complete lack of athleticism, and her quest to find her long-lost father all make a believable and very sympathetic character. How can readers resist a lawyer who oversleeps, and then rushes off to court wearing mismatched shoes? One who manages to spill the entire contents of her purse while trying to fish out her cell phone? Jamie feels as if she is someone we have always known and liked.

While there is intrigue and danger, there is also plenty of humor mixed into the stories. How many mysteries start off with a music store owner being bludgeoned to death with a didgeridoo? And when was the last time you heard of a disgruntled citizen leaving a message by mowing the words "Bite me," into the grass at a public park? Even some of the character names will have you smiling, like Marmaduke Broussard III or Commissioner Dilly Williams. (I won't repeat what Jamie changes her cat's name to, you will have to find out for yourself.)

If you enjoy mysteries with humor and a little romance mixed in, then give the adventures of Jamie Quinn a try. They are the perfect way to relax after a day at work.

I received a copy of the book from the author for review purposes.