Miss Julia’s husband Sam was preparing for a two week trip to the Holy Land with members of their church. Miss Julia was staying home to help take care of Hazel Marie’s young twin babies and her older son Lloyd. Julia also decided to renovate three rooms in her house, especially a new office and writing space for Sam.

Shortly after Sam left, Miss Julia found out Hazel Marie’s husband, Mr. Pickens, had disappeared. He was a private detective who had gone to West Virginia on a case, but did not return when he said he would. A strange phone call from him ended abruptly and led Julia to believe he was in trouble. When she couldn’t get the local sheriff to help locate him, she and her friend Etta Mae made the trek.

Their attempt to locate Mr. Pickens, Miss Julie’s struggles with those who were renovating her house, and a strange religious cult that decided to relocate in their town were just a few situations that kept her busy. When her own life seemed to be in peril, Miss Julie pulled out all the stops to keep her friends and herself from harm while she also tried to complete the surprise she had for her husband.

Miss Julia to the Rescue was the thirteenth book out of the current sixteenth in this marvelous series written by Ann B. Ross, and the first I’ve read. I’m glad I've been introduced to the quirky characters that inhabit the town of Abbotsville, Virginia. Rarely do I struggle putting a book down when I am needed elsewhere, but this one quickly seemed attached to my hand.

As I read the book I quickly realized there is much past history to this series, and I decided I should start at the beginning if I wanted to get the "full" story. However, readers can pick up any book in the series and still enjoy a good read.

Along with the quirky characters are the thorough descriptions of the people and the places where they live or visit. The author is adept at making us feel we are a part of the location whether indoors or outdoors. Julia's running commentary throughout the book provides insights into her own thoughts while they also keep us up to date as to what everyone else is doing through visits and telephone calls.

Miss Julia is an active southern lady who seems to land the midst of everyone's personal business as she tries to help people who are in need and protect those she loves. She will do almost anything to keep her friends and family from harm even if it gets her into trouble.

The story is hilarious and well thought out, with a satisfying ending for both the characters and the reader.

A friend sent this complimentary copy for my review. You can find the Miss Julia to the Rescue at Amazon.com.