Miss Julia Books in Order

This reading order guide provides the complete list of Miss Julia books in order, from the very first to the latest, so you won’t miss anything!

About the Miss Julia Series

If you’re looking for a charming, witty, and heartwarming mystery series with a Southern flair, then The Miss Julia Series might be just what you need. Written by Ann B. Ross, this beloved series follows the adventures of Miss Julia, an older woman living in the small, fictional town of Abbotsville, North Carolina. At first glance, Miss Julia seems like your typical Southern lady—polite, well-dressed, and traditional—but once you step into her world, you’ll quickly learn that there’s much more beneath the surface. She’s smart, strong-willed, hilariously outspoken, and surprisingly bold when it comes to protecting the people she cares about.

Miss Julia’s journey begins shortly after the death of her husband. But instead of fading quietly into widowhood, she discovers a secret that changes everything: her late husband had a mistress—and a young son. This shocking revelation could have broken her, but instead, it leads to a whole new chapter in her life. With grace and determination, Miss Julia chooses to welcome both the boy, Lloyd, and his mother, Hazel Marie, into her home. It’s a surprising move, one that shows the reader just how big her heart really is.

In one of the early books, Miss Julia Takes Over, we see her dive headfirst into solving the mystery of Hazel Marie’s sudden disappearance. When the police don’t act fast enough, she hires private investigator J.D. Pickens and insists on joining him in the search—taking little Lloyd along for the ride! This combination of comedy, danger, and maternal concern makes Miss Julia both lovable and endlessly entertaining. Her adventures are filled with funny moments and unexpected twists, all while reflecting the warmth of small-town Southern life.

The tone throughout the series is cozy and uplifting, even when the stakes are high. In Miss Julia Throws a Wedding, for example, she takes on the enormous task of planning a wedding for a young couple in her neighborhood. Her sense of duty to others often pulls her into situations she never imagined, but she always rises to the occasion—with plenty of humor along the way. Whether she’s dealing with nosy neighbors, unexpected guests, or society drama, Miss Julia manages to keep her composure… well, most of the time!

What makes Miss Julia so relatable is that she doesn’t pretend to be perfect. She’s quick to judge sometimes and doesn’t always listen before she speaks. Yet, her intentions are almost always good, and she grows through her experiences. Her moral compass is deeply influenced by her Southern upbringing and her strong religious faith. Pastor Ledbetter and his wife Sue often appear throughout the series, highlighting the importance of community, respect, and trust. One memorable example of this is in Miss Julia Lays Down the Law, where she finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation—facing the risk of being accused herself, simply for trying to do the right thing.

The relationships in the books also add emotional depth. There are tender flashbacks to her late husband, romantic sparks with others like J.D. Pickens, and touching moments of female friendship. Other women in the town often seek her advice, look up to her, or occasionally drive her crazy. Yet, Miss Julia’s voice remains unique and unforgettable—sharp when she needs to be, but always laced with warmth, honesty, and Southern charm.

The novels are known for blending mystery with comedy in a way that feels natural and comforting. These aren’t dark thrillers—they’re stories that wrap you in a blanket and make you laugh out loud while keeping you guessing. Each book offers a new adventure, but there’s always a familiar feeling that makes you want to return to Abbotsville again and again.

With sixteen books in the series (so far), including bestsellers like Miss Julia Makes a Marvelous Makeover and Miss Julia Lays Down the Law, there’s plenty to enjoy for fans of cozy mysteries. Whether you’re reading at home with a cup of tea or passing the time on a road trip, these books offer a delightful escape. And once you meet Miss Julia, you’ll find yourself wanting to know what she’s up to next.

So if you haven’t already been introduced, now’s the perfect time to meet Miss Julia. She’s not your average heroine—but maybe that’s exactly why readers can’t get enough of her.

How many books are there in the Miss Julia series?

There are a total of 22 main Miss Julia books and 1 short story. The series, written by Ann B. Ross, includes the following titles in order: