I truly adored this book.

Mira James is the head (and only) librarian in Battle Creek. She’s also a local columnist and amateur sleuth. When religious zealots move into and seemingly take over Battle Creek over night, followed by the death of a local cheerleader (who worked in the library), Mira knows something isn’t right. She’s hellbent on leaving Battle Creek and all the trouble it’s caused her behind but can she really do that in good faith realizing who she might be leaving it to?

This book is hilarious, filled with an exciting cast of characters from Mrs. Berns the frisky fake gun totting grandma to Kennie the loud as life Mayor of Battle Creek. The close knit small town vibes make me feel all cozy inside, even though this is also a murder mystery. If you’re looking for a fun easy but engaging read, this book is definitely for you. The author has quite the grasp of humorous similes and metaphors. It’s the first Murder Of The Month book I’ve read but I’ll definitely be reading all of them ASAP! Thanks to Netgalley for ARC 💕

This book was laugh out loud funny! I absolutely love the main character, Mira, and the way that she solves murders. Battle Lake, Minnesota is the perfect setting for this cozy mystery. You will not be disappointed by this book or this series. This is book 4 in her Monthly Murder Series. Thank you for the chance to read this.

Not as great as the other ones. Lot of drunk detectives, religion, and just seemed a bit messier than the other books.

Thank you NetGalley and Publisher for my DRC in exchange for my honest review.

August Moon by Jess Lourey
Pub date: 08 Jun 2008
Pub date: 30 Jul 2024
• Billed as humor and hijinks mystery but not so much here
• Not sure if she was trying to be funny or serious, but I prefer authors who stay away from religion and political issues, and this story is about religion and prejudice
• Consists of juvenile tropes, made up words, poor grammar, and nonsense phrases
• Newer edition has some editorial revisions, thank goodness-for example:
"prostate" [sic] form lying on a bed
• Author needs to learn the differences between singular and singular possessive, plural and plural possessive cases along with other grammar and punctuation issues
• Not my idea of sarcasm and wit
• If you enjoy reading light stupidity, this is the book for you

Another winner in this fun and clever series. The plot is more complex than it appears and the final resolution is dramatic and shocking, with a bit more doubt than usual that Mira will actually make it out alive! As ever, the story within the story is impeccable, with Battle Lake’s odd ensemble of characters all dealing with various sub-plots which are as intriguing as they are amusing. Mira’s character growth continues to emerge with dark corners, adding depth to the way in which the reader understands her perspectives and responses.