Scrapbooking Mystery Books in Order: Complete Carmela Bertrand Reading Guide

Last updated: December 2025

Series Overview

The Scrapbooking Mystery Series has 16 books spanning from 2003 to 2019, set against the colorful backdrop of New Orleans.

Laura Childs brings her signature cozy mystery style to the Big Easy with Carmela Bertrand, owner of Memory Mine scrapbooking shop in New Orleans' French Quarter. Between crafting classes, Mardi Gras celebrations, and her complicated relationship with ex-husband Shamus, Carmela finds herself solving murders with the help of her best friend Ava.

What makes this series special: The vibrant New Orleans setting—Mardi Gras, jazz, Cajun culture, and French Quarter charm—combined with creative scrapbooking tips makes this series uniquely atmospheric.

Reading Order Complexity Level: SIMPLE - Read in publication order

Quick Answer: The Complete Reading Order

1. Keepsake Crimes (2003)
2. Photo Finished (2004)
3. Bound for Murder (2004)
4. Motif for Murder (2006)
5. Frill Kill (2007)
6. Death Swatch (2008)
7. Tragic Magic (2009)
8. Fiber & Brimstone (2010)
9. Skeleton Letters (2011)
10. Postcards from the Dead (2012)
11. Gilt Trip (2013)
12. Gossamer Ghost (2014)
13. Parchment and Old Lace (2015)
14. Crepe Factor (2016)
15. Glitter Bomb (2018)
16. Mumbo Gumbo Murder (2019)

Note: This series concluded in 2019 with Mumbo Gumbo Murder.

Why Reading Order Matters

The Shamus Factor: Carmela's complicated relationship with her ex-husband Shamus Allan runs throughout the series. Their on-again, off-again dynamic provides ongoing subplot drama.

Detective Babcock: Carmela's relationship with NOPD Detective Edgar Babcock develops across multiple books.

Post-Katrina New Orleans: Book 4, Motif for Murder, takes place in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, and subsequent books reference the city's recovery.

Meet the Main Characters

Carmela Bertrand - Owner of Memory Mine scrapbooking shop, amateur sleuth with a talent for getting into trouble.

Ava Grieux - Carmela's best friend, owner of the Juju Voodoo shop, always ready for adventure.

Shamus Allan - Carmela's frustrating ex-husband from a wealthy New Orleans banking family.

Detective Edgar Babcock - NOPD detective and Carmela's love interest who tolerates her sleuthing.

New Orleans Celebrations

Many books coincide with New Orleans festivals and traditions:

- Mardi Gras features in several books including Death Swatch, Postcards from the Dead, and Glitter Bomb
- Halloween provides the backdrop for Frill Kill, Fiber & Brimstone, and Gossamer Ghost
- Jazz Fest plays a role in Mumbo Gumbo Murder

Series Themes

- Creative crafts - Scrapbooking tips and techniques woven throughout
- New Orleans culture - Mardi Gras, voodoo, jazz, and Cajun cuisine
- Female friendship - Carmela and Ava's unbreakable bond
- Southern charm - French Quarter atmosphere and Louisiana hospitality
- Mystery and romance - Murder-solving with a side of complicated relationships

What to Expect

- Cozy mysteries with New Orleans flair
- Scrapbooking tips and craft project ideas
- Recipes featuring Louisiana cuisine
- French Quarter atmosphere - the sights, sounds, and flavors of New Orleans
- Mardi Gras celebrations - parades, krewes, and costumes

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the series complete?
A: Yes, the series concluded with Mumbo Gumbo Murder in 2019. All 16 books provide a complete story arc.

Q: Do I need to scrapbook to enjoy these books?
A: Not at all! The scrapbooking elements add flavor but aren't essential to enjoying the mysteries.

Q: How does this compare to Laura Childs' other series?
A: The New Orleans setting gives these books a different feel than her Charleston-based Tea Shop series. If you love both cities, enjoy both series!

Q: Are there recipes included?
A: Yes! Each book features New Orleans-inspired recipes.

Start Your Reading Journey

Ready to explore the French Quarter? Start with [Keepsake Crimes](/series/scrapbooking-mysteries) and meet Carmela Bertrand.