Joyful Leigh

Literal Leigh Romance Diaries #5

by Melanie James

‘Tis the season for magical mayhem. Leigh vows upon her magic desk and witch’s broom that Thankshanukkamas will be filled with childlike joy for her, her family, and her friends—even if it kills them. And it may just come to that! With a new publishing contract in hand, the disasterpieces fly from Leigh’s desk. With titles like Sleighing the Elfa-The Elf Pack Book1, Restoring The Old Schlitt House-A “Do Yourself” Romance, Fangin’ the Billion-were, and Gangin’ the Billion-were, the mischief piles up.

When the EPA (Elf Protection Agency) shows up at Leigh’s door, she’s got some explaining to do. Throw in a couple of retired mobsters, Fur-Con, bats in the belfry, along with a shape-shifting witch, and you’ve got a recipe for catastrophe. Can Leigh and the gang save the fate of all paranormals? Or will this be the end of the line for Leigh and her band of magical misfits?

Genres: Paranormal, Romance, Witches, Fantasy, Humor, Magic, Fiction

284 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 17, 2014

About the author

New York Times & USA Today Bestselling author, Melanie James spent 14 years as an IT systems administrator before tiring of the hustle and bustle of the technology world. She's doing what she loves, by writing paranormal comedy, steamy paranormal, and contemporary romance books. Melanie has a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh in Leadership and Development, with a minor in Women's Studies. She is working on her Master's Degree in Adult Education at the University of Wisconsin-Stout.

Melanie is married to a wonderful man who supports her dreams and goals. She has two children, three step-children, a beautiful daughter-in-law, and an adorable grand-baby.

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Reviews

[T.M. Payne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book: Joyful Leigh – Literal Leigh Romance Diaries Book #5
Author: Melanie James
Publication Date: 12/17/2014
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 5 Stars


REVIEW

Leigh is on a trip to the grocery store after work with Gertie. Well things go all kinds of wrong for these two.
It’s Hunter to the rescue.

The old house that Leigh and Hunter are restoring has no working furnace and its beyond freezing in there. Leigh decides to write about a couple who of course fix the heat or do they?

Leigh has hopes of having Thanksgiving meal at her and Hunters home but with no heat how can she?

Leigh has been published but only for her witch books. The girls now have a spell club and they meet weekly.
Hunter has a new assignment he is going undercover dressed as what else? A Cat?

Oh no now the publishing company wants a Christmas paranormal book and Leigh is up for the challenge Oh the crazy things this witch does.


This book as all the books in this series was hilarious I found myself laughing out loud so many times while reading it. It is well written and the escapades of Leigh and her friends is never ending trouble with a capital T.

If you want a good read with Romance, Comedy and a tad bit suspense then grab yourself a copy of this book and get reading.
Joyful Leigh

[Sassy Ray Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melanie James has done it again! I think I have to say this is my favorite Leigh book of all of them! It is full of mishaps and again will have you laughing out loud. I loved what Hunter said to Leigh! “The way I see it, life is crazy and unpredictable anyway. I might as well team up with someone who knows how to make it fun, too.” Loved it!!

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this Kindle e-book through the Amazon Kindle Store. I am a part of the Review Team @ The Paranormal Bookshelf.

Category: paranormal, witches, humor, 17+
Spoilers: NONE
Book #5 in The Literal Leigh Romance Diaries

As the last book in this series, I have to say that I am officially in need of an emotional get out of work day lol. This book was absolutely AMAZING! A wonderful way to finish of this part of the Leigh story and I can honestly say that I cannot wait for Gertie and Randy's side of things. Definitely something to keep an eye out for in the future. Melanie James has brought us one of the best paranormal witch series of the year and this 5th book just nails that in even more.

We find Leigh picking up right where she left off in book 4 after she was proposed to. Questions of what kind of wedding and what to do for the holiday season are all the main focus of this book which with Leigh is AWESOME. The characters are in full swing as always and Melanie James didn't let us down one bit with the humor and gut busting laugh out loud that we are used to. Wonderful job on this book and can't wait to see what's next for this author and these characters. 5 star series!

[Anna Salamatin]

Well, Leigh is in the thick of it again...and again and again! It just doesn't let up in this one! From the very first pages she is a hostage at the grocery store, .. A misshape spell is drunkenly spewed out at the first meeting of their spell club, which has a "sticky "effect on Hunter....The furnace needs fixing but no one will come because of the house being haunted, so Leigh writes about it getting fixed, and does it ever!....A portal opens up one night and she meets the wizard Cosmos and the witch Sybil who tell Leigh about the Order of Dobrin, led by Villus & the Teutonic Knights. He is out to gain all magic for himself under the guise of witch hunts, trials & inquisitions. What he can't control he destroys.....Meanwhile, Leigh has planned for both her and Hunter's family to have Thanksgiving at their new house and have the families get to know each other and they can announce their engagement......I don't think I need to tell you how that's going to work out!.....We do however finally learn about the origin of the desk! and the Voodoo Queen is to grant Leigh a Royal Title, but your going to read it to find out why........So we are going to a Royal Wedding! Yay!. Hunter really is a keeper!
I laughed all the way through this one and can't wait for the next adventure.

[Linda Quick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner in the Leigh series. This is hysterically funny as Leigh and the rest of her coven continue to struggle with their magic - with bizarre and funny results. By far, my favorite quote from the entire series appears in this book: "I'm pretty sure we're standing on the corner of Are-you-fucking-kidding-me Avenue and I-seriously-need-theropy-after-this-shit." That pretty much says it all - despite good intentions, Leigh's magic becomes a comedy of errors....or is that a tragic comedy?

Please keep writing, Melanie, and I'll keep buying.

[Dawn Trepczyk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melanie James does it once again. This is the 5th book in the Literal Leigh Series, and I absolutely love it. I think this is my favorite one so far. You are literally laughing out loud. There were times I was laughing so hard I thought my family was gonna think I was crazy. Leigh and her friends always end up in some sort of mishap. If you haven't read this series I really think you need to start 1 clicking. I can't wait to see what Melanie has in store for Leigh and her friends.

[K.M. Lowe · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started off not a huge fan of the books, but once you start reading them, you have to read them to see where the story is going...It was a story that finished off better than it started and I have enjoyed the last two books. It has kind of ended funny and I would of thought it would of ended better. Leigh and Hunter, have jumped hurdle after hurdle to still be together and its clear that they really love each other. It would of been really good to see how everything turned out for the duo.

[Crissy Sutcliffe · Rating 5 out of 5]

i have fallen in love with not only this series, but this author as well! this is book 5 in the Literal Leigh series and they just seem to keep getting better and better. This book for sure did not dissapoint! so much action, sillyness and tomfoolery that you cannot help but read it till the end with out putting it down! i cannot wait to see what Leigh has in store for us next! <3

[Catherine Wester · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joyful Leigh

Another great story ,I just love this series, the crazy things that happen to this group are just too much. And the outrageous things they think and say have me laughing out loud just imagining the scenarios. If you haven't read any of the series you are missing out, give them a read you won't be disappointed.

[Sydney · Rating 4 out of 5]

AUDIOBOOK REVIEW

Joyful Leigh, is so pure and filthy at the same time. I loved the whole idea of Thanks-hanukkah-mas and teacher-years. And then we had increasingly inappropriate situations with furry suits which just made me go into hysterics. AND THE MILF SPEECH! The writing is so clever and hilarious! The families had a bigger role in this book as they celebrate multiple holidays, and seeing their reactions to Leigh's magical craziness is fantastic. I'm so excited as Leigh and Hunter's wedding is teased. They've been through so much and I'm excited for them to get, what I hope will be, a happily ever after.

[Sydney M Neblett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holiday high jinks at their best

Any time Leigh and the gang get together I know I’m in for an uproariously good time. This author’s use of a thesaurus had me cracking up from the very first chapter. And oh those acronyms, I think I might have broken a rib with all the laughter inducing moments. Add to that the quirky characters I just can’t help falling in love with, and the dangerous situations that they all manage to survive with minimal damage, and you have this amazing story you just don’t want to miss. As always, I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading what the gang gets up to next.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun, lighthearted, and witty. Warning: Don't eat or drink while reading this book, or you might end up having to clean it up. Laugh out loud funny, and just the right amount of dirty, this will keep you reading until the last sentence. Highly recommend for all readers who like just a little raunch with a lot of tongue-in-cheek in your paranormal romance.

"I was given this free review copy book at my request and have voluntarily left this review."

[Carmen D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joyful Leigh

Hilarious, what Leigh does is continually get into mischief and not only speaking but physically as well. Highly recommended, now I must find the 1st 4 books. Already purchased the 6th!

[Alisa Jenkins · Rating 3 out of 5]

it wasn't bad, but I didn't enjoy this one as much as the rest of the series.
Still had some very funny moments, but lacking something for me.

However, I am glad I decided to read the whole series.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blazing Turkey's!!

These books just get funnier lol.

Thanks Giving, Hanukkah and Christmas.

Adding in, Furries, Witches, Elves, family, an order of nasties and you get a brill book!

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has been my favorite one of the series. I laughed many many times.

[Madeleine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book full of hijinks and laughter. Holly does a great job with the narration and Melanie does a great job making you feel like you were there with Leigh and her group of friends.

[Mandy Sawyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

As this storyline continues we get to know the characters so much more and I fall in love with them a lot more. This is a lighthearted fun book. With a fantastic performance from Hollie.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I literally laughed my ass off so many times while reading 'Joyful Leigh'. I read it in one sitting due to the fact that I didn't want to put it down. It was absolutely hilarious. The storyline was so full of 'oops' to 'oh hell no' to 'oh-my-god-I-can't-believe-this-is-happening-to-me' to 'aw, how sweet' moments that I was reminded again why this series, 'Literal Leigh Romance Diaries', is one of my favorites. The way it played out was well written and so damn funny. Where else can you get a 'damn yam issue', a 'psychedelic living room from hell', to 'goddamned bats', a true Thanksgiving turkey- that actually lives through dinner and is being asked for forgiveness, to so many innuendoes about the act of sex and any mans genitalia (pork sword and so many more that I actually laughed out loud, really loud mind you). The whole 'Thankshannukkamas' was quite creative. The characters were as great, if not more awesome, than ever. You have to love Leigh's friends. They are a riot. Leigh and Hunter are perfect together. Their relationship has definitely been tested time and time again. Then you add Dalia to the mix, along with Elpha and the Germans, and you get more shake your head, laughing scenes. An overall excellent read. I look forward to reading more of Leigh's adventures and mishaps, along with her friends. A must add to your tbr list.

[Jacky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet naive Leigh, I loved the way Melanie James has woven a sweet tale about witches and witchcraft whilst introducing us to a wonderful array of characters. Leigh manages to get herself into all sorts of mischief but things always manage to work out well for her.

If you are looking for something light to read then this series is a great series to read.

‘Tis the season for magical mayhem. Leigh vows upon her magic desk and witch’s broom that Thankshanukkamas will be filled with childlike joy for her, her family, and her friends—even if it kills them. And it may just come to that! With a new publishing contract in hand, the disasterpieces fly from Leigh’s desk. With titles like Sleighing the Elfa-The Elf Pack Book1, Restoring The Old Schlitt House-A “Do Yourself” Romance, Fangin’ the Billion-were, and Gangin’ the Billion-were, the mischief piles up.

When the EPA (Elf Protection Agency) shows up at Leigh’s door, she’s got some explaining to do. Throw in a couple of retired mobsters, Fur-Con, bats in the belfry, along with a shape-shifting witch, and you’ve got a recipe for catastrophe. Can Leigh and the gang save the fate of all paranormals? Or will this be the end of the line for Leigh and her band of magical misfits?

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm avid fan of Melanie James and especially of her witch Leigh series. I can't get enough of this series-full of rip roaring belly laughs!!

This book continues from book 4 with Leigh considering her wedding plans. Then Thanksgiving is coming and Leigh decides to have Thanksgiving dinner at her house. She's renamed the holiday to Thankshanukkamas (the three holidays into one)! She's inviting all the family and friends and even though she can't cook, she thinks she can manage this. Now what could go wrong with that-with the madcap crew anything is possible. Then there is the Order of Dobrin who persecute practitioners of magic and what is the cause for the bat infestation in Leigh's attic (no pun intended)!! We meet again with Sybil the witch and Cosmos, the older warlock. There are just so many hilarious shenanigans going on that this story keeps you laughing and reading until you've finished the story. I can't wait to see what is in store for us next.

This book was a gift.

[Sheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given a complimentary copy for an honest review by author Melanie James. This is book 5 of the Literal Leigh Romance Diaries by the author.

Leigh goes to town making her Thankshanukkamas
enjoyable for the whole family but when evil starts messing with her she puts her best foot forward to get things to work out for the best. Elves, witches, bats, uncle Carmine's friends, nosy neighbors and a witch set on wrecking havoc in this book.

Melanie James has outdone herself on this book because it is so creatively funny in all the right spots. The characters really make this book and series well worth the read. This is a very smooth flowing story from start to finish.

This is for any paranormal comedy romance book lover. It is best to read the series starting at book 1 because where 1 leaves off book 2 starts and so forth.

[Stephanie Mae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Transferred my review from audible

"Leigh you have some splainin to do"
Would you listen to Joyful Leigh again? Why?
I would absolutely listen to any and everyone one of Melanie James books over and over again! They are some of the funnies books out there!

What was one of the most memorable moments of Joyful Leigh?
If you have read any of Melanie's Leigh books you will know every part of the book is memorable! You read it and laugh the entire time and you can not just forget it!

Have you listened to any of Hollie Jackson’s other performances before? How does this one compare?
We have gone over this Audible! LOL I LOVE Hollie and if anyone reads any of my reviews you will find this out very quickly! Hollie is amazing and talented!

[Amanda Knobloch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great series! I love it! Leigh and all her goofy friends are a riot! This book continues after she accepts Hunters wedding proposal. This book focuses on the holidays and all the craziness that comes with the holidays. But, This group of friends and family takes the craziness of the holidays to a whole new level! Bat infestation, a runaway turkey, a sex crazed old witch, a old wizard, and so much more! Plus, Leigh plans to cook for thanksgiving and she has never cooked like that before. Its so crazy and funny. Again, I just love it! Can't wait for the next installment. Keep writing Melanie James! :-)

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well Melanie James did it again. Talk about laughing your butt off. To see Leigh and Gertie at it again with all the shenanigans they end up in. There was always something going on that no matter how hard you try to hold back the laughter forget it not going to happen. This is a MUST READ SERIES. If you like the Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich you will love Literal Leigh Romance Diaries. Leigh reminds me so much of Stephanie and Gertie reminds me of Grandma Mazur. Never know what will happen.

[SB Morales · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is such a fun series!! I always know what I open up a Literal Leigh Romance I'm going to be smiling! This installment takes Leigh into the Holiday's. It's so sweet how all she ever tries to do is help those she love. Good or Bad, Right or Wrong, she always has her heart in the right place and I am sure to smile at the end of it. I just love all the characters and can't wait to read more about them and find out what kind of trouble they find themselves in. James is one of my favorite authors and I can't wait to find out what adventure she takes me on in her next book!

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I must say this series is Brilliant. And I can not wait for more. I hope Melanie James has more in the works!!!

Leigh and her misfit family are creating havoc again and this installment in series left me laughing my bum off. I laughed so hard through chapter 8 I had to share it with my husband. And he laughed as hard as I did. The furry convention was a riot!! And the noisy neighbor with the child that calls in the neighborhood watch reminds me of Mrs. Kravitz from Bewitched. Some folks just can't mind their own business.

[JoAn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joyful Leigh by Melanie James is the fifth book in the series and was another funny romp through disasters and mishaps as Leigh and her friends continue to learn witchcraft.

Leigh has decided to write two more stories which she begins but doesn't quite finish - again. She is also planning her first Thanksgiving celebration with family and friends. I laughed throughout the Thanksgiving dinner with friends and family. We have some new characters to add to the mix this time as well as new foes. All of which add to the wonderful mix of laughter, misdirected spells and disasters.

[Louisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read in the Leigh Series.


I couldn't stop reading this it was so full of laughs and beautifully written.

Leigh is spending her Thanksgiving, Hanukkah and Christmas with her fiancé in their new place. She wants it the holiday season to be be perfect and so she use her magic to help but as usual things don't quite turn out as planned.


So if you haven't ready any of these series - get started now you won't be disappointed

[Relina Skye · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Joyful Leigh" by Melanie James is the fifth book in the "Literal Leigh Series". With the holiday season quickly approaching, Leigh is excited about having her first Thanksgiving in her new home with all of her family and friends. Even though Leigh envisions the perfect holiday season, nothing works out quite the way she expects it to. Overall, I enjoyed this last book in this fun filled series. I hope you do too!