Reading order
| # | Title | Published | Author | Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mayhem & Mass | 2017 | Patricia Sargeant | Buy |
| 2 | Peril & Prayer | 2018 | Patricia Sargeant | Buy |
| 3 | Alibis & Angels | 2019 | Patricia Sargeant | Buy |
Sister Lou Mystery is a three-book cozy mystery series by Patricia Sargeant set in the fictional small town of Briar Coast, Ohio. The protagonist is Sister Louise LaSalle, known as Sister Lou, a nun in her 60s who becomes an unlikely amateur detective when murders occur in her community.
The three books follow Sister Lou as she investigates cases often involving the Catholic community she lives and works in: Mayhem and Mass (2017), Peril and Prayer (2018), and Alibis and Angels (2019). Her age and religious vocation give the series a distinctive voice compared to most cozy mystery protagonists. Her nephew, who works in law enforcement, is a recurring supporting character and a source of tension over Sister Lou’s involvement in police matters.
The series is best read in order, as the ongoing relationship between Sister Lou and the recurring cast develops across the three books. Readers who enjoy cozy mysteries with unusual amateur detectives will find Sister Lou an appealing change of pace.