Laura Levine

Laura Levine is an American author best known for writing the Jaine Austen mystery series, which follows the adventures of a freelance writer who solves crimes in Los Angeles. Before becoming a novelist, she worked as a television writer for shows including "The Bob Newhart Show," "Three's Company," and "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman." The Jaine Austen series, which began with "This Pen for Hire" in 2002, combines elements of cozy mystery with humor and includes over 15 books. The protagonist shares her apartment with her cat Prozac and frequently becomes entangled in murder investigations while pursuing her work as a writer of advertising copy. Levine's writing style incorporates comedic elements drawn from her experience in television, often featuring quirky characters and humorous situations alongside traditional mystery plotting. Her novels typically include elements of romance and social commentary while maintaining the lighter tone associated with cozy mysteries. Her work in both television and literature has established her as a writer who specializes in combining comedy with mystery elements. The Jaine Austen series continues to expand with regular new releases that maintain consistent themes and style.

Readers consistently rate Laura Levine's Jaine Austen mysteries as light, fast reads with humorous storylines. What readers liked: - Quick-paced plots that can be finished in one sitting - Funny email exchanges between Jaine and her parents - The cat Prozac's personality and antics - Relatable protagonist who makes realistic mistakes - Clean content without graphic violence What readers disliked: - Repetitive plot formulas across the series - Too many food references and descriptions of eating - Some found the humor forced or sitcom-like - Limited character development over multiple books Ratings across platforms: - Goodreads: Average 3.8/5 across series - Amazon: 4.2/5 average rating - Barnes & Noble: 4.1/5 average Reader quote: "Perfect for when you want a mystery that won't give you nightmares but will make you laugh" (Goodreads) Critical quote: "The jokes can feel recycled after a few books, but the mysteries remain solid" (Amazon reviewer)

Killer Blonde A mystery novel featuring freelance writer Jaine Austen investigating the murder of a Beverly Hills trophy wife.

This Pen for Hire Jaine Austen's first case involves writing a love letter that leads to murder and a complex investigation.

Last Writes Jaine Austen searches for a killer while working on a TV show about a crime-solving vegetarian vampire.

Killing Bridezilla When a demanding bride is found dead before her wedding, Jaine Austen must find the killer among numerous suspects.

Death by Pantyhose A stand-up comedian dies on stage, and Jaine Austen investigates while dealing with her own failed comedy routine.

Shoes to Die For Jaine Austen becomes entangled in a murder investigation at a trendy Los Angeles shoe store.

Death of a Trophy Wife A murder investigation unfolds at an exclusive country club involving wealthy suspects and hidden motives.

Pampered to Death Jaine Austen investigates a murder at a high-end spa while reluctantly enduring "wellness" treatments.

Death of a Neighborhood Witch A Halloween-themed mystery involving the murder of a former TV witch actress in Los Angeles.

Killer Cruise Jaine Austen solves a murder while working as a lecturer on a cruise ship vacation.

Death by Tiara A murder investigation at a teen beauty pageant where Jaine Austen is writing promotional content.

Death by Chocolate Lab A veterinarian is found dead, and Jaine Austen must solve the case while dealing with her cat's antics.

Janet Evanovich writes mystery novels featuring Stephanie Plum, a female bounty hunter who solves crimes with humor and romantic subplots. Her characters find themselves in outlandish situations while pursuing criminals in New Jersey.

Sarah Strohmeyer creates mystery series with female protagonists who balance detective work with personal relationships. Her Bubbles Yablonsky series follows a hairdresser-turned-reporter solving crimes in a small town setting.

Elaine Viets writes two mystery series featuring working-class female protagonists who investigate murders while holding down day jobs. Her Dead-End Job series follows Helen Hawthorne, who takes different minimum-wage positions while solving crimes.

Dorothy Cannell develops mystery novels with British settings and female amateur sleuths who use wit to solve cases. Her Ellie Haskell series combines crime-solving with domestic life and family dynamics.

Joanne Fluke writes culinary mysteries featuring Hannah Swensen, a baker who solves murders in small-town Minnesota. Her books include recipes and focus on family relationships while following murder investigations.