New Orleans is a city full of secrets and stories, perfect for mystery and historical novels. Think uncovering hidden truths in the French Quarter, solving crimes in those eerie old alleys, or diving into the city’s rich past. If historical or mystery books set in New Orleans are your jam, you’re in for a treat. These picks will bring you the unique charm of the Big Easy.
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12 Historical + Mystery Books Set in New Orleans
Historical Romance Books Set in New Orleans
Through the Storm by Beverly Jenkins
Sable, a runaway slave, ends up in an arranged marriage with Raimond LeVeq, the charming Union officer she once betrayed. This powerful historical romance is set against the backdrop of New Orleans during the Civil War.
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Rebel by Beverly Jenkins
Valinda Lacy is determined to help the newly emancipated community in New Orleans thrive post-Civil War. When her school is destroyed and her life is threatened, she finds safety and love in the arms of Captain Drake LeVeq.
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Carnage by Sandra R. Neeley
Carnage, a volatile and lonely Gargoyle, spots a human woman running into his swamp, chased by three men. Making a split-second decision, he rescues her and hides her in the treetops. Fascinated by her bravery, he claims her as his own, despite his fear that she might be terrified of his monstrous appearance. Set in the haunting swamps of South Louisiana.
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Listen to our podcast episode discussion of Carnage by Sandra R. Neeley.
Frankly, My Dear by Sandra Hill
New York model Selene finds herself magically transported to 18th-century Louisiana. Trying to channel her inner Scarlett O’Hara, she meets the brooding plantation owner James Baptiste. A time travel re-imagining of Gone with the Wind in the Louisiana bayou.
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Cozy Mystery Books Set in New Orleans
Maid for Murder by Barbara Colley
Charlotte La Rue, owner of Maid-for-a-Day in New Orleans, finds herself embroiled in a murder mystery when her wealthy client, Jackson Dubuisson, is found dead. Balancing her cleaning business and sleuthing skills, Charlotte navigates through a maze of dirty laundry and dark secrets in the historic Garden District.
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Bayou Book Thief by Ellen Byron
Ricki, a young widow, returns to New Orleans to open a mystery bookstore in the heart of the French Quarter. But when she discovers a dead body among the stacks, she must uncover the killer before becoming the next victim.
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Cat Got Your Diamonds by Julie Chase
Lacy, a pet boutique owner in New Orleans, finds herself a suspect in a murder case. With her reputation and business on the line, she teams up with a handsome detective to clear her name.
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Mumbo Gumbo Murder by Laura Childs
Carmela, a scrapbook shop owner, stumbles upon a murder during Jazz Fest in New Orleans. With her best friend Ava, she dives into the mystery, navigating the city’s colorful culture and uncovering dark secrets.
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Read our book reviews of the Scrapbooking Mystery series and all our Laura Childs book reviews
Mysteries Set in New Orleans
Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys
Josie, a young woman with dreams of escaping the French Quarter, gets entangled in a murder investigation that threatens to derail her plans. Set in the 1950s, this gripping mystery explores themes of ambition, identity, and the struggle for a better life in the vibrant, gritty streets of New Orleans.
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Under the Cajun Moon by Mindy Starns Clark
Chloe Ledet, daughter of a famous New Orleans chef, races to uncover her father’s secret recipes while dodging danger. Framed for murder, she must rely on a mysterious Cajun guide to navigate the treacherous waters of the bayou.
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That Old Black Magic by Mary Jane Clark
Piper Donovan, a wedding-cake decorator, arrives in New Orleans to perfect her pastry skills and gets wrapped up in a murder mystery. As she juggles cake decorating and investigating the “Hoodoo Killer,” Piper discovers that the Big Easy’s charm comes with a dark side. This suspenseful tale is filled with voodoo, jazz, and intrigue.
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The Neon Rain by James Lee Burke
Detective Dave Robicheaux tackles crime and corruption in the murky waters of New Orleans. When a routine investigation uncovers a web of murder and deceit, he must navigate through the city’s underworld to find the truth. This gritty mystery is a deep dive into the darker side of the Big Easy.
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We’d love to hear your favorites! Drop a comment below with your top historical romances, cozy mysteries, and mystery books set in New Orleans. And if you’re craving more adventures in the Big Easy, be sure to check out our other New Orleans recommendation lists.
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