Miss Zukas by Jo Dereske
The Miss Zukas series by Jo Dereske is a delightful collection of cozy mysteries. It follows Helma Zukas, a meticulous librarian in Bellehaven, Washington, who often finds herself solving murders. The series is known for its quirky characters, humor, and engaging mysteries. Below is a list of all the books in the series, along with their publication years, followed by a brief preview of each.
Publication Order of Miss Zukas Books
- Miss Zukas and the Library Murders (1994)
- Miss Zukas and the Island Murders (1995)
- Miss Zukas and the Stroke of Death (1995)
- Miss Zukas and the Raven’s Dance (1996)
- Out of Circulation (1997)
- Final Notice (1998)
- Miss Zukas in Death’s Shadow (1999)
- Miss Zukas Shelves the Evidence (2001)
- Bookmarked to Die (2006)
- Catalogue of Death (2007)
- Index to Murder (2008)
- Farewell, Miss Zukas (2011)
1. Miss Zukas and the Library Murders (1994)
In the first book, Helma Zukas discovers a dead body in the fiction section of her library. The police have no leads, so Helma uses her librarian skills to investigate. With her quirky artist friend Ruth, she uncovers clues and solves the mystery. This book introduces Helma’s organized and no-nonsense personality.
2. Miss Zukas and the Island Murders (1995)
Helma attends a library conference on a remote island. When a fellow attendee is found dead, Helma suspects foul play. Despite the idyllic setting, danger lurks, and Helma must use her sharp mind to uncover the truth.
3. Miss Zukas and the Stroke of Death (1995)
Helma joins a rowing class, but the peaceful activity turns deadly when a body is found in the water. Helma’s curiosity leads her to investigate, uncovering secrets among her fellow rowers.
4. Miss Zukas and the Raven’s Dance (1996)
Helma is tasked with cataloging Native American artifacts at a cultural center. When a murder occurs, she delves into the world of Native American history and culture to solve the crime.
5. Out of Circulation (1997)
Helma reluctantly goes on a hiking trip with Ruth. Their adventure takes a dark turn when they discover a dead body in the wilderness. Helma’s determination to find the truth puts her in danger.
6. Final Notice (1998)
Helma’s elderly Aunt Em comes to visit, but her arrival coincides with a murder. Helma must balance family drama and her investigation to uncover the killer.
7. Miss Zukas in Death’s Shadow (1999)
When a businessman is found dead near a homeless shelter, Helma becomes a suspect due to a past disagreement with the victim. She must clear her name and find the real killer.
8. Miss Zukas Shelves the Evidence (2001)
Helma discovers a body buried in her neighbor’s garden. As she investigates, she uncovers secrets about her neighbors and the victim’s past.
9. Bookmarked to Die (2006)
Helma investigates the death of a local author who was about to reveal a scandal. The case takes her into the world of publishing and literary rivalries.
10. Catalogue of Death (2007)
Construction begins on a new library, but the project is marred by a murder. Helma must navigate library politics and uncover the truth behind the crime.
11. Index to Murder (2008)
Helma investigates the death of a local historian. The case leads her to uncover hidden secrets about the town’s past.
12. Farewell, Miss Zukas (2011)
In the final book, Helma faces her most personal case yet. As she prepares to leave the library, she must solve one last mystery that hits close to home.
Why You’ll Love the Series
The Miss Zukas series is perfect for fans of cozy mysteries. Helma’s sharp wit, attention to detail, and unique personality make her a memorable protagonist. The books are filled with humor, engaging plots, and a charming small-town setting. If you enjoy mysteries with quirky characters and clever storytelling, this series is a must-read.