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Missy DuBois Mystery #2
Something Foul at Sweetwater
Louisiana hat maker Miss DuBois is making a name for herself veiling Southern brides-to-be with her sophisticated designs. She’s also gaining a reputation for unveiling murderers . . .
Missy is shocked when she sees the asking price for the Sweetwater mansion . . . in a good way. With business thriving at Crowning Glory, it would be nice to set up shop surrounded by alabaster columns and gleaming mahogany. The Southern connections only deepen when it turns out the real estate agent is Mellette Babineaux, a college classmate and sorority sister. But when Missy drags her best friend Bo along to the mansion for a second look, they barely make it past the live oaks before they discover Mellette’s dead body in a shed. Now, for the sake of her college friend, Missy finds herself investigating everyone from a superstitious Cajun caretaker to a Rolls Royce-driving billionaire—and finding that lots of closet space can mean lots of skeletons, too . . .
SOMETHING FOUL AT SWEETWATER
Missy is shocked when she sees the asking price for the Sweetwater mansion . . . in a good way. With business thriving at Crowning Glory, it would be nice to set up shop surrounded by alabaster columns and gleaming mahogany. The Southern connections only deepen when it turns out the real estate agent is Mellette Babineaux, a college classmate and sorority sister. But when Missy drags her best friend Bo along to the mansion for a second look, they barely make it past the live oaks before they discover Mellette’s dead body in a shed. Now, for the sake of her college friend, Missy finds herself investigating everyone from a superstitious Cajun caretaker to a Rolls Royce-driving billionaire—and finding that lots of closet space can mean lots of skeletons, too . . .
SOMETHING FOUL AT SWEETWATER
184 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2016
142 people are currently reading
599 people want to read
About the author
Sandra Bretting
11 books286 followersAuthor Sandra Bretting made the switch from writing traditional mysteries to writing inspirational historical fiction in 2024. Her first historical novel, called Unfit to Serve, revolves around the chaos caused by the U.S. military when it adopts a brand-new test from France called the IQ test during World War 1. Based on real events, the novel features a courageous school teacher who fights to help the immigrants who can't read the test and fail it by the thousands.
During a career that spans two decades, Bretting also wrote the Missy Dubois Mystery Series, which earned distinction as an Amazon national bestseller.
She graduated from the University of Missouri's School of Journalism and previously wrote for the Los Angeles Times and Houston Chronicle. You can get to know Bretting's books at www.sandrabretting.com.
During a career that spans two decades, Bretting also wrote the Missy Dubois Mystery Series, which earned distinction as an Amazon national bestseller.
She graduated from the University of Missouri's School of Journalism and previously wrote for the Los Angeles Times and Houston Chronicle. You can get to know Bretting's books at www.sandrabretting.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
May 22, 2020
Something Foul at Sweetwater is the 2nd book in the Missy DuBois mystery series written by Sandra Bretting. I usually read a series in order, but I had received a later one as an ARC for a blog tour, and I've only just been able to get caught up with this one. Now, I'm current and ready to read the newly released fifth one next week. As with the ones before, this was a fun cozy mystery set in Mississippi where a hat designer solves crimes (accidentally) in grand ole homes.
Missy has a thing for Ambrose, but he's still nursing some wounds after a former love died. She's letting him lead things, but something might be heating up with another guy in town, a local cop. She's close with the cop, as bodies seem to show up around Missy all the time. Poor girl! At least she handles it well. This time, it's someone she was in a sorority with years ago, and in the house she wants to buy, fix up, and make her new offices. First, she'll have to weed thru a bunch of suspects: the house's caretaker, the caretaker's son who practices VooDoo, the father of a bride Missy helped convict previously, a local restaurant waiter, a strange real estate agent and uncle to one of Missy's key staff... it gets a wee bit complicated this time.
All in all, it's a fun series. I like the characters, and the mysteries usually have layers. The setting can be a little over the top, along with the dialogue, but in all honesty, there are people who talk like that. So it's just a matter of getting used to the details for me... by now, I am, and I'm excited about the next one. The titles are always clever, and this book moves things forward for Missy on a bunch of levels. I am curious about her family, and I hope that's who shows up soon.
Missy has a thing for Ambrose, but he's still nursing some wounds after a former love died. She's letting him lead things, but something might be heating up with another guy in town, a local cop. She's close with the cop, as bodies seem to show up around Missy all the time. Poor girl! At least she handles it well. This time, it's someone she was in a sorority with years ago, and in the house she wants to buy, fix up, and make her new offices. First, she'll have to weed thru a bunch of suspects: the house's caretaker, the caretaker's son who practices VooDoo, the father of a bride Missy helped convict previously, a local restaurant waiter, a strange real estate agent and uncle to one of Missy's key staff... it gets a wee bit complicated this time.
All in all, it's a fun series. I like the characters, and the mysteries usually have layers. The setting can be a little over the top, along with the dialogue, but in all honesty, there are people who talk like that. So it's just a matter of getting used to the details for me... by now, I am, and I'm excited about the next one. The titles are always clever, and this book moves things forward for Missy on a bunch of levels. I am curious about her family, and I hope that's who shows up soon.
December 2, 2016
Pour a glass of iced tea and settle into a comfy chair to idle away the hours while relaxing with this cozy mystery. Hat designer, Missy DuBois is settling in at Morningside with her best friend, Ambrose 'Bo' Jackson, who designs custom wedding gowns. The two make a great team for brides-to-be. Out and about town one day, Missy spies a For Sale sign at an old antebellum mansion, Sweetwater, and impulsively stops to take a tour. To her, the fixer-upper has lots of potential; the price is right; and she's able to persuade Bo to go back and look at it with her. The realtor just happens to be one of Missy's sorority sisters, Mellette Babineaux. Shocked to the core, Missy and Bo stumble upon Mellette's corpse in the cottage/studio out back. Later, Missy and her assistant, Bea, paddle a pirogue out in the muddy waters of the bayou to track down the mansion's crotchety caretaker, Ruby, and question her about the suspicious death. There appears to be mysterious happenings at Sweetwater Mansion--rumors of voodoo ceremonies and missing antiques.
Missy's meandered upon another perplexing mystery that her curiosity just has to help solve. Childhood friend, Detective Lance LaPorte, is on the case and cautiously sharing information with Missy. Although the killer reveal seemed a bit abrupt to me, the murderer fit the bill for someone who disliked the realtor and the future plans for Sweetwater Mansion. I was thrilled that Bo finally made a move on Missy, too!
As a Southerner myself, I find the author's weaving of Southern prose throughout the story charming and true to the natives. For a cozy afternoon of reading and relaxing, this mystery is irresistible.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book.
Missy's meandered upon another perplexing mystery that her curiosity just has to help solve. Childhood friend, Detective Lance LaPorte, is on the case and cautiously sharing information with Missy. Although the killer reveal seemed a bit abrupt to me, the murderer fit the bill for someone who disliked the realtor and the future plans for Sweetwater Mansion. I was thrilled that Bo finally made a move on Missy, too!
As a Southerner myself, I find the author's weaving of Southern prose throughout the story charming and true to the natives. For a cozy afternoon of reading and relaxing, this mystery is irresistible.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book.
December 19, 2016
Book 2 in the Missy DuBois Mystery series.
Missy is a delight. I especially love the southern voice that instantly enters your mind when reading the book. Her best friend, Ambrose, is so much fun!
I was definitely kept guessing throughout the book, the identity of the killer was a surprise.
Something Foul at Sweetwater was a quick and delightful read. The book is not too long, but you will be entertained with it's southern charm and wit.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review and opinion.
Missy is a delight. I especially love the southern voice that instantly enters your mind when reading the book. Her best friend, Ambrose, is so much fun!
I was definitely kept guessing throughout the book, the identity of the killer was a surprise.
Something Foul at Sweetwater was a quick and delightful read. The book is not too long, but you will be entertained with it's southern charm and wit.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review and opinion.
December 30, 2016
When Sweetwater, a mansion in the area, goes up for sale, Missy can't help herself...she must tour the inside. It would be nice if she and Ambrose had a home of their own instead of living in a rent house. The mansion, its amenities, and the price are exactly what Missy and Bo need and can afford. However, when the lifeless body of the realtor, Mellette Babineaux, a former sorority sister of Missy, is found in a shed on the property, Sweetwater becomes a crime scene. Between speculations of voodoo, a grubby billionaire, a Cajun property attendant, and other possible suspects, Sweetwater is becoming more unattainable.
As the mystery unfolds, Missy discovers several hypotheses as to why the realtor may have been killed. As she continues to help find out why Mellette was killed, the history of Sweetwater continues to bubble to the surface. The murder could be related to any number of things, and with a little bit of help from her cop friend, Lance, she's determined to figure it out. Just as clumsy as she was in book 1, Missy isn't the only one that sidestepped the law in book 2. Lance secures a search warrant and allows Missy to tag along and touch things in the home being searched....
The plot is nicely executed and pretty solid. I enjoyed the multiple threads involving the murder, the history of voodoo, the ties Sweetwater has to the Civil War, the billionaire, and the other storylines. There are many twists, turns, viable suspects, and diversions along the way. The author did a great job concealing the real suspect(s) and the reason for the murder.
I really enjoyed the interactions between Missy and her best friend, Ambrose. Their conversations, actions, and mannerisms are realistic. There has been a spark between them since book 1 and it is eventually explored in book 2. The interactions with other characters in the book, dialogue, actions, and discussions are done well.
If you're looking for a fun cozy mystery then Something Foul at Sweetwater will suit you just fine.
I voluntarily reviewed a NetGalley copy of this book.
As the mystery unfolds, Missy discovers several hypotheses as to why the realtor may have been killed. As she continues to help find out why Mellette was killed, the history of Sweetwater continues to bubble to the surface. The murder could be related to any number of things, and with a little bit of help from her cop friend, Lance, she's determined to figure it out. Just as clumsy as she was in book 1, Missy isn't the only one that sidestepped the law in book 2. Lance secures a search warrant and allows Missy to tag along and touch things in the home being searched....
The plot is nicely executed and pretty solid. I enjoyed the multiple threads involving the murder, the history of voodoo, the ties Sweetwater has to the Civil War, the billionaire, and the other storylines. There are many twists, turns, viable suspects, and diversions along the way. The author did a great job concealing the real suspect(s) and the reason for the murder.
I really enjoyed the interactions between Missy and her best friend, Ambrose. Their conversations, actions, and mannerisms are realistic. There has been a spark between them since book 1 and it is eventually explored in book 2. The interactions with other characters in the book, dialogue, actions, and discussions are done well.
If you're looking for a fun cozy mystery then Something Foul at Sweetwater will suit you just fine.
I voluntarily reviewed a NetGalley copy of this book.
February 7, 2017
I love being introduced to new authors and new series and was delighted to have the chance to read SOMETHING FOUL AT SWEETWATER by Sandra Bretting. Set in Louisiana, Sandra brings Southern charm via her protagonist, Missy Dubois. Missy runs a hat shop, Crowning Glory, catering to brides and wedding parties. I loved hearing Missy’s “voice” right off the bat. She’s chatty, uses Southern colloquialisms that had me laughing out loud at times, and she is a tiny bit self-deprecating, making her instantly likable. Missy’s best friend, Ambrose “Bo” Jackson, provides a nice balance to Missy and is owner of Allure Couture, designing bridal gowns and bridesmaids dresses. They make a good team and there is definitely chemistry happening in their relationship but it doesn’t detract from the mystery. The author paints strong descriptive scenes bringing the sights, sounds, and smells of the humid bayou to life.
Weaving murder, superstitions, voodoo queens, and bridezillas into the story, Sandra pulls you in for an entertaining read. She provides plenty of suspects to keep you guessing and turning pages to find out what happens next. Even though this is the second book in the Missy DuBois Mystery series, it is easily read as a standalone.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Weaving murder, superstitions, voodoo queens, and bridezillas into the story, Sandra pulls you in for an entertaining read. She provides plenty of suspects to keep you guessing and turning pages to find out what happens next. Even though this is the second book in the Missy DuBois Mystery series, it is easily read as a standalone.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 17, 2016
I was torn as to how to rate this book. On the positive side, the protagonist, Missy DuBois is likeable, the voodoo element was interesting and for the most part, the plot was well done. On the other hand, the author just tries too hard to make this "Southern" by throwing in every possible cliché ever uttered South of the Mason-Dixon line. This is extremely off putting for a couple of reasons. First, these phrases are thrown in at will and often seem forced and sort of stop the flow. Also, I'm not sure how to explain it, but she mixed the clichés of various segments of society within the speech of the same characters, so the same "daddy's girl debutant is spouting off that lingo but also has the same character using the language and clichés the poor rural types. If this was the case in the first book, I would have hoped an editor would have nicked the language before the second book, but apparently not. Secondly, while the plotting was done fairly well, the mystery isn't really all that much of a puzzle. Hopefully if the series continues, more emphasis will be put on the puzzle and less on making the characters "sound" Southern.
Something Foul in Sweetwater is the second book in this series, but the first book I have read.
Something Foul in Sweetwater is the second book in this series, but the first book I have read.
December 22, 2016
Bretting nails southern charm in this second book in the Missy DuBois mystery series. This is such a fun and sweet read even if you have not read the first book in this series. She does an excellent job of bringing back some of the best characters from the first book, which is fun for someone like me who started with book one. For new readers she shares details from the first story that will make you want to go back and read it. I loved all of Missy's funny southern sayings. They really grow on you and I found myself waiting to see what she would say next. In the first book we find out that Missy has feelings for her best friend and roommate and that storyline plays out in greater detail in this book. I found myself really rooting for these two. Their chemistry is undeniable. The mystery element to this book was very good and had me second guessing myself every time I thought I was close to figuring it out. I really enjoyed the variety of characters Bretting introduces. Any one of them could potentially be a suspect and in the next moment it seems there is no way it could be them.
I will most certainly be following Missy on her next adventure and look forward to seeing how her relationship grows in future installments.
I will most certainly be following Missy on her next adventure and look forward to seeing how her relationship grows in future installments.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 18, 2016
Missy DuBois, owner of Crowning Glory, is settling into her career as a designer of custom bridal headpieces but in this novel her fascination with antebellum mansions lands her right in the middle of another crime scene. At the beginning of the book she stops to look at a fixer upper. The realtor is her former college classmate/sorority sister, Mellette Babineaux. Missy has grand ideas for the property and forces her best friend Bo to return with her for a second look. Unfortunately, they discover Mellette’s body and Missy’s attention turns to solving her murder. Missy has to deal with rumors of voodoo ceremonies and hidden treasure to determine a motive and there are just enough twists to keep the reader intrigued until she finds the answers. This series oozes Southern charm from the names to the descriptions to the colorful dialogue. It may be too much at times, especially for people unfamiliar with the culture. The main characters are pleasant and easy to connect with. I had not read the first book in the series but I plan to and I look forward to whatever hijinks ensue in book three.
December 20, 2016
Sandra Bretting has created an entertaining and sweet mystery. Missy DuBois is experiencing some success in her hat making business and she and her best friend Ambrose share a little house. When she sees a for sale sign at the Sweetwater mansion, she has to go take a look. Bretting introduces us to a variety of quirky characters, and, of course, one of them ends up dead. Finding the truth behind that death becomes Missy's mission, with the requisite rabbit holes, misunderstandings and opportunities for personal growth.
I did find the story entertaining, perhaps a bit loosely written. I will look for the previous book (this is the second in this series) once I get caught up on my TBR stacks.
I was actually a bit surprised - and a touch put off - by the cover. I wasn't sure why until at the end of the book I found a picture of the cover of the first book, which is almost identical to the cover of one of Caroline Haines' books. I'm surprised that the publisher would allow for that kind of duplication of cover art. I do NOT consider this the fault of Ms. Bretting.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reading Copy of this book.
I did find the story entertaining, perhaps a bit loosely written. I will look for the previous book (this is the second in this series) once I get caught up on my TBR stacks.
I was actually a bit surprised - and a touch put off - by the cover. I wasn't sure why until at the end of the book I found a picture of the cover of the first book, which is almost identical to the cover of one of Caroline Haines' books. I'm surprised that the publisher would allow for that kind of duplication of cover art. I do NOT consider this the fault of Ms. Bretting.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reading Copy of this book.
December 2, 2016
Something Foul at Sweetwater is the second book in Sandra Bretting’s Missy DuBois Mystery series. The book is well written and there are some twists and turns. The characters are likeable and I loved the Southern charm and humor in this book but I felt there were too many Southern clichés. This somewhat slow but steady paced murder mystery references voodoo practices in the Bleu Bayou, Louisiana area.
Melissa “Missy” DuBois is a custom hat maker and her best friend and roommate, Ambrose “Bo” Jackson, is a wedding gown designer. When Missy drives by Sweetwater Plantation, she notices it’s for sale, picks up a flyer and is shocked by the low asking price. She decides to look at it, falls in love with the house and discovers the realtor, Mellette Babineaux, is a college classmate and sorority sister. When she brings Bo back to look at the house, they discover the body of Mellette in a shed on the property. Missy feels compelled to help Officer Lance LaPorte with the investigation.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Melissa “Missy” DuBois is a custom hat maker and her best friend and roommate, Ambrose “Bo” Jackson, is a wedding gown designer. When Missy drives by Sweetwater Plantation, she notices it’s for sale, picks up a flyer and is shocked by the low asking price. She decides to look at it, falls in love with the house and discovers the realtor, Mellette Babineaux, is a college classmate and sorority sister. When she brings Bo back to look at the house, they discover the body of Mellette in a shed on the property. Missy feels compelled to help Officer Lance LaPorte with the investigation.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
December 7, 2016
When Missy finds out that the beautiful Sweetwater mansion is up for sale, she just has to take a peek inside. That's where she finds her old sorority sister, Mellette Babineaux, who just happens to be the realtor for the sale. Missy and Mellette tour the house and Missy falls in love with the place. Intending to talk her best friend, Ambrose, into buying the house for a showroom/living place, they go back together to check the place out. When they get there, another interested buyer is leaving the place, complaining that he couldn't find the realtor. As they tour the grounds, Missy and Ambrose sure find her. But, she's not up to taking them on the tour. She's a bit too dead for that.
Did the other interested party take her out? Did the caretaker Missy met on her first trip do it? And what's with the creepy owner of the place?
I really enjoyed this book. I was totally surprised by who the killer was and that's always fun when reading a mystery. Can't wait for the next book!
I volunteered to read and review an advance copy of this book.
Did the other interested party take her out? Did the caretaker Missy met on her first trip do it? And what's with the creepy owner of the place?
I really enjoyed this book. I was totally surprised by who the killer was and that's always fun when reading a mystery. Can't wait for the next book!
I volunteered to read and review an advance copy of this book.
December 21, 2016
Louisiana hat designer Missy Dubois has a found herself at the center of another murder in this second book in the Missy DuBois cozy mystery series. After stopping to get her best friend and roommate, Ambrose (Bo) some fresh beignets, Missy comes across the Sweetwater Mansion that is listed for sale at jaw-dropping low price. After meeting the realtor who turns out to be former sorority sister, Missy takes a tour of this enchantingly old antebellum mansion and decides that she must have it for herself and Ambrose. After convincing Ambrose to go and look at what Ambrose is convinced is a potential money pit, they discover that the realtor has been murdered and that her body has been left in a potting shed. There are a series of twist, turns, and revelations as Missy and Bo try to uncover who is the real killer and the mystery of why the house is for sale.
I received an advanced copy of this book in review for my honest opinion. All opinions and comments regarding this book are solely my own.
I received an advanced copy of this book in review for my honest opinion. All opinions and comments regarding this book are solely my own.
December 21, 2016
Something Foul at Sweetwater, is the second book in Sandra Bretting's Missy DuBois Mystery series. Murder at Morningside is the first. This 171 page book has a beautiful cover that hints at the story. I really enjoy cozy mysteries and even though I have not read the first book, I easily got into Missy DuBois and her "adventure". Missy lives in Louisiana where she has a hat shop called Crowning Glory. When she sees a "For Sale" sign on a historic mansion, she just has to check it out. Later when she goes back for a second look, she discovers the real estate agent's dead body! So Missy goes into investigative mode. Readers are also treated to Missy's relationship with Ambrose. Ambrose is a widower and he is finally ready to start dating Missy. This book has fun characters. I am looking forward to the next book in the series, Someone's Mad at the Hatter.
December 21, 2016
Sandra Bretting’s Something Foul at Sweetwater follows the southern sleuth Missy DuBois as she investigates real estate agent Mellette Babineaux’s mysterious death. While this is the second Missy DuBois mystery, it is the first one I have read. It was easy to jump into the series and Bretting catches new readers up on the characters in a way that lacks redundancy for those who read the first book. Something Foul at Sweetwater offers likeable characters, an interesting mystery, and Louisiana culture to keep the reader entertained throughout. My only negative comment…it seemed unrealistic to me the level of obligation and concern that Missy felt towards her sorority sister…even though they had barely met. Overall, I would recommend Something Foul at Sweetwater.
November 20, 2016
First, I have to say I adore this cover! What do you get when you throw in a little swamp voodoo, a woman living in the swamp, an old plantation house and a murder? Missy happens to drive by an old plantation house one morning and notices it is for sale. Just out of curiosity she picks up a flyer and notices the price is enough for her to afford. She decides to take a look at it, can't hurt right?! She loves the house and rushes back to convince her roommate to come take a look. Only they find a dead body and Missy is drawn into helping solve the crime.
I was given an advanced eARC by the publisher through NetGalley.
I was given an advanced eARC by the publisher through NetGalley.
December 24, 2016
Something Foul at Sweetwater, is the Second book in the Missy DuBois mystery series.
This the first book of Sandra Bretting that I have read.
This cozy is set in Louisiana and is full of southern charm.
The main character Missy DuBois,mis a hat designer and finds herself, investigating a murder at an old mansion that is for sale. Missy finds herself investigating everyone from the caretaker to the Rolls Royce driving good looking billionaire.
This is a good book, with a good story and well developed characters.
Once I started this book I couldn't put it down, can't wait to read more books in this series.
This the first book of Sandra Bretting that I have read.
This cozy is set in Louisiana and is full of southern charm.
The main character Missy DuBois,mis a hat designer and finds herself, investigating a murder at an old mansion that is for sale. Missy finds herself investigating everyone from the caretaker to the Rolls Royce driving good looking billionaire.
This is a good book, with a good story and well developed characters.
Once I started this book I couldn't put it down, can't wait to read more books in this series.
netgalley
March 30, 2017.
May 20, 2017
An enjoyable Sunday afternoon read.
This is the second instalment in the Missy DuBois Mystery series and even though I had not read the first book, this story was easy to follow and hooked me with fun banter and spooky intrigue.
Missy DuBois is a hat-maker in Morningside, Louisiana, and even though the closest I've come to experiencing Southern lifestyles is via the cooking channel and reality TV, Sandra Bretting did an excellent job of bringing Louisiana right to my doorstep, from the quaint range of characters to the freaky voodoo customs. I appreciate when an author takes the time and writer-know-how to bring a setting to life while not feeling like a documentary.
On her way to work one morning, Missy cannot refuse the opportunity to view a beautiful mansion that has recently been put up for sale. Who can resist peeking into the lifestyles of the rich and famous? Once inside, Missy cant help but think what an amazing shop/studio the mansion could be for her booming wedding hat industry and she could share the space with Abrose 'Bo' Jackson, who makes customs wedding gowns in the shop next to hers and just happens to be her roommate as well.
That afternoon, when Missy convinces Bo to view the mansion with her, they are totally shocked when they find the dead body of the realtor, Mellette Babineax, who is also a previous sorority sister of Missy's. And so, Missy is thrown headfirst into the mystery of who murdered Mellette Babineax.
This mystery is an easy read, with loads of interesting history about Louisiana's civil war ties and voodoo culture thrown in. The characters are fun, diverse and the real Southern prose gems just add to the page-turning thrills.
I would recommend this fun, light-hearted mystery to anyone looking to enjoy some Southern flair intertwined with voodoo and a tiny bit of flirty romance. A few of the twists and turns are some-what predictable, but that seems to add to the scary, but safe and entertaining feel.
This is the second instalment in the Missy DuBois Mystery series and even though I had not read the first book, this story was easy to follow and hooked me with fun banter and spooky intrigue.
Missy DuBois is a hat-maker in Morningside, Louisiana, and even though the closest I've come to experiencing Southern lifestyles is via the cooking channel and reality TV, Sandra Bretting did an excellent job of bringing Louisiana right to my doorstep, from the quaint range of characters to the freaky voodoo customs. I appreciate when an author takes the time and writer-know-how to bring a setting to life while not feeling like a documentary.
On her way to work one morning, Missy cannot refuse the opportunity to view a beautiful mansion that has recently been put up for sale. Who can resist peeking into the lifestyles of the rich and famous? Once inside, Missy cant help but think what an amazing shop/studio the mansion could be for her booming wedding hat industry and she could share the space with Abrose 'Bo' Jackson, who makes customs wedding gowns in the shop next to hers and just happens to be her roommate as well.
That afternoon, when Missy convinces Bo to view the mansion with her, they are totally shocked when they find the dead body of the realtor, Mellette Babineax, who is also a previous sorority sister of Missy's. And so, Missy is thrown headfirst into the mystery of who murdered Mellette Babineax.
This mystery is an easy read, with loads of interesting history about Louisiana's civil war ties and voodoo culture thrown in. The characters are fun, diverse and the real Southern prose gems just add to the page-turning thrills.
I would recommend this fun, light-hearted mystery to anyone looking to enjoy some Southern flair intertwined with voodoo and a tiny bit of flirty romance. A few of the twists and turns are some-what predictable, but that seems to add to the scary, but safe and entertaining feel.
January 8, 2018
This is the second book in Missy Dubois Mystery series and the first book I had read by this author. I am leaning towards 3 and half stars as it was a solid story but it just lack some flair for me as a mystery story.
I really enjoyed the main character overall - she has an interesting personality and seemed to know her own mind. I wasn't completely sold on her relationship her good friend Ambrose as I wasn't convinced of the chemistry between them but maybe that is something that would grow on me with future books.
The southern charm of the story is a strong selling point for me as an Australian reading the book as it was quite engaging the way Missy and some of her fellow characters would use expressions. I wasn't totally mesmerized by the way the story unfolded as it seemed a bit predictable in places but there were some original touches that helped the story become more interesting - the jobs that Missy and Ambrose do are cool - I just worried if Missy could make a real living from her hat designs. (The practical side of me coming out). I did want to join in a mealtime - some of the food sounded delicious.
I didn't love the story but I certainly enjoyed it enough to seek out the first book in the series and be ready to read the next adventure Missy partakes of. Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this author in return for an honest opinion.
I really enjoyed the main character overall - she has an interesting personality and seemed to know her own mind. I wasn't completely sold on her relationship her good friend Ambrose as I wasn't convinced of the chemistry between them but maybe that is something that would grow on me with future books.
The southern charm of the story is a strong selling point for me as an Australian reading the book as it was quite engaging the way Missy and some of her fellow characters would use expressions. I wasn't totally mesmerized by the way the story unfolded as it seemed a bit predictable in places but there were some original touches that helped the story become more interesting - the jobs that Missy and Ambrose do are cool - I just worried if Missy could make a real living from her hat designs. (The practical side of me coming out). I did want to join in a mealtime - some of the food sounded delicious.
I didn't love the story but I certainly enjoyed it enough to seek out the first book in the series and be ready to read the next adventure Missy partakes of. Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this author in return for an honest opinion.
December 27, 2016
**I voluntarily reviewed this ARC**
This was a good book, but the mystery felt a little too easy. There was a distinct lack of suspects, which made it fairly simple to pick out the murderer. Other than that, I really enjoyed this book. The author has a way with words that just paints a gorgeous picture. I also had fun with all the little southern sayings sprinkled through the book.
This was a good book, but the mystery felt a little too easy. There was a distinct lack of suspects, which made it fairly simple to pick out the murderer. Other than that, I really enjoyed this book. The author has a way with words that just paints a gorgeous picture. I also had fun with all the little southern sayings sprinkled through the book.
June 12, 2018
The characters just keep getting better and better. A good depth of personality development helps the enhance the storyline. An interesting plot with multiple suspects to lead you down different paths. An entertaining read that has me looking forward to the next book in the series.
October 27, 2016
Something Foul at Sweetwater is the second installment in the Missy DuBois series featuring Melissa "Missy" DuBois, owner of Crowning Glory, a hat shop located in Bleu Bayou, Louisiana. Missy shares a house with Ambrose Jackson, famed wedding designer and the two have shops next door to each other.
Missy is driving to work one day when she sees that the Sweetwater Mansion is for sale. Obsessed with old mansions she pulls in to investigate and encounters real estate agent Millette Babineaux, her former college sorority sister. After touring the home and discovering the price is very cheap, Missy talks Ambrose into going to see the house and discuss a possible purchase. Unfortunately, the duo discovers Millette's body in the empty garden shed.
This series is a little difficult to get used to - the over the top Southern expressions will undoubtedly grate on some readers. A fast paced storyline that delves into the Louisiana Bayou voo doo culture, and the return of familiar characters including Officer Lance LaPorte.
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
Missy is driving to work one day when she sees that the Sweetwater Mansion is for sale. Obsessed with old mansions she pulls in to investigate and encounters real estate agent Millette Babineaux, her former college sorority sister. After touring the home and discovering the price is very cheap, Missy talks Ambrose into going to see the house and discuss a possible purchase. Unfortunately, the duo discovers Millette's body in the empty garden shed.
This series is a little difficult to get used to - the over the top Southern expressions will undoubtedly grate on some readers. A fast paced storyline that delves into the Louisiana Bayou voo doo culture, and the return of familiar characters including Officer Lance LaPorte.
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
December 20, 2016
This story takes us into Louisiana where Missy DuBois,
milliner and her best friend Ambrose 'Bo' Jackson who
design wedding dresses are settling.
On the way to work one morning Missy discovers that
an old pre-Civil War mansion called Sweetwater is for
sale. She also discovers that the real estate agent,
Mellette Babineaux is one of her sorority sisters.
Returning later in the day with Ambrose to look at
Sweetwater, they find Mellette dead!!!!
Missy is ready to jump into the investigation to try to
figure out how and who killed Mellette.
The characters are vivid, colorful and well defined.
There is an array of suspects to eliminate.
Come along with Missy as she ventures into the bayou,
meets some of the the river people, finds out about
voodoo and gets to see at voodoo ceremony at Sweetwater.
Captivating writing, vivid description, thrills and chills make
this a fun read.
This is the second book in A Missy DuBois Mystery series.
It can be read as a stand alone.
I volunteered to read an advance copy of the book. Thanks
to author via the Cozy Mystery Review Crew for the book.
My opinion is my own.
milliner and her best friend Ambrose 'Bo' Jackson who
design wedding dresses are settling.
On the way to work one morning Missy discovers that
an old pre-Civil War mansion called Sweetwater is for
sale. She also discovers that the real estate agent,
Mellette Babineaux is one of her sorority sisters.
Returning later in the day with Ambrose to look at
Sweetwater, they find Mellette dead!!!!
Missy is ready to jump into the investigation to try to
figure out how and who killed Mellette.
The characters are vivid, colorful and well defined.
There is an array of suspects to eliminate.
Come along with Missy as she ventures into the bayou,
meets some of the the river people, finds out about
voodoo and gets to see at voodoo ceremony at Sweetwater.
Captivating writing, vivid description, thrills and chills make
this a fun read.
This is the second book in A Missy DuBois Mystery series.
It can be read as a stand alone.
I volunteered to read an advance copy of the book. Thanks
to author via the Cozy Mystery Review Crew for the book.
My opinion is my own.
November 20, 2016
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I had not read the first Missy DuBois mystery but had no trouble jumping into number 2. Simple curiosity about an old mansion and a chance meeting with a former sorority sister leads milliner Missy into murder once again while she juggles bridezillas at her shop and growing feelings for her best friend, Ambrose. Something Foul at Sweetwater is well written and kept me guessing whodunit until the end. I loved the characters who feel like old friends and the humor throughout the book. I could feel myself floating through the bayou and smelling the beignets. I cannot wait to see what Missy gets into next.
December 20, 2016
A fun, well-written mystery with lots of southern charm including colorful characters, interesting suspects, humorous moments, an element of Bayou voodoo, and great old idioms I hadn't heard in years. I was drawn in immediately and couldn't turn the pages fast enough to see what would happen next. I love Missy DuBois and her interactions with the other characters, especially her best friend, Ambrose Jackson. Even though this is the second book in the series, it is the first I have read and had no problem reading it as a standalone. However, I liked it so much, I plan to read all of the Missy DuBois Mysteries. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
December 22, 2016
Something Foul at Sweetwater by Sandra Bretting is the second book in the Missy Dubois mystery series. This cozy mystery is set in Louisiana and is full of southern charm. The main character Missy Dubois, a hat designer finds herself investigating a murder at an old mansion that is for sale. The characters are likable and the story keeps you guessing until the end. This book has humor and little to much southern charm, but I will be reading the next book in this series. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
December 20, 2016
This is the 2nd book of the series.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. I haven't read the first book in the series, but I found the protagonist, Missy DuBois to be quite charming. She is a hat designer specializing in weddings. I look forward to more detail in future adventures in the series.
The one drawback I found in the story was the dialogue. The southern idioms are rather forced and altogether too frequent. It's a bit jarring in an otherwise delightful story.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. I haven't read the first book in the series, but I found the protagonist, Missy DuBois to be quite charming. She is a hat designer specializing in weddings. I look forward to more detail in future adventures in the series.
The one drawback I found in the story was the dialogue. The southern idioms are rather forced and altogether too frequent. It's a bit jarring in an otherwise delightful story.
August 30, 2019
Sad, but satisfying resolution
I'm adoring these characters. Southern charm abounds in this cozy mystery series. The author does a great job making the reader feel the South: the slower paced days as well as the stifling heat that hangs like a cloak. Readers will understand why I found the resolution a bit sad, however, the main characters move forward. Now I'm craving a tall glass of sweet tea.
I'm adoring these characters. Southern charm abounds in this cozy mystery series. The author does a great job making the reader feel the South: the slower paced days as well as the stifling heat that hangs like a cloak. Readers will understand why I found the resolution a bit sad, however, the main characters move forward. Now I'm craving a tall glass of sweet tea.
July 6, 2023
Sadly, I enjoyed this one less than the first. The case was ridiculous and not in the hilarious way. Missy was opinionated, doesn’t listen and seems to think only her way of thinking can be the good one. Even more annoying is how everyone seems to always gush over her, how great, talented or smart she is.
I like the southern twang and that the read is short and easy. But yeah. I had hoped for so much more …
I like the southern twang and that the read is short and easy. But yeah. I had hoped for so much more …
July 11, 2018
Silly, silly, silly book....an accomplished Milner running around accusing persons of murder, then oops I made a mistake...it's not that one its a different one...and the police think she's so funny ...
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