Step into the vibrant, mystery-filled world of the Scrapbooking Mysteries, where New Orleans’ French Quarter buzzes with intrigue and amateur sleuth Carmela Bertrand crafts her way to solving crimes! Penned by New York Times bestselling author Laura Childs, this cozy mystery series blends the charm of scrapbooking with the pulse-pounding pace of a thriller—what Childs calls a 'Thrillzies' experience. With its colorful setting, relatable protagonist, and clever plots, it’s a delightful escape for fans of cozy mysteries and crafting alike.
Centered around Carmela’s scrapbooking shop, Memory Mine, the series immerses readers in the lively streets of New Orleans, where Mardi Gras floats, jazz clubs, and spooky cemeteries set the stage for murder and mayhem. Whether you’re a mystery buff or a crafting enthusiast, Scrapbooking Mysteries offers a unique blend of creativity and suspense that keeps you hooked.
How Scrapbooking Mysteries Began
Laura Childs, the pseudonym of Gerry Schmitt, launched the Scrapbooking Mysteries in 2003 with Keepsake Crimes. A former advertising executive with a knack for storytelling, Childs was inspired by the scrapbooking craze sweeping the U.S. at the time, with thousands of specialty shops popping up. She saw the potential to weave this craft into a cozy mystery series, setting it in the vibrant French Quarter of New Orleans—a city she fell in love with during Mardi Gras visits. Childs’ goal was to create a series that felt both cozy and thrilling, introducing Carmela Bertrand as a down-to-earth sleuth who stumbles upon crimes while running her shop.
The Heart of Scrapbooking Mysteries
The series kicks off with Keepsake Crimes (2003), where Carmela’s estranged husband, Shamus, is accused of murdering a city elite during Mardi Gras. Carmela dives into the case, uncovering clues in a customer’s scrapbook to clear his name. In Photo Finished (2004), a late-night 'Crop Till You Drop' session at Memory Mine turns deadly when a neighboring antique shop owner is found stabbed, forcing Carmela to rearrange jumbled clues. Bound for Murder (2004) sees Carmela preparing for a friend’s wedding, only to discover the groom’s body with a knife in his back. Later, Glitter Bomb (2018) delivers a Mardi Gras explosion when a float crashes, revealing a krewe member’s murder, with Shamus again under suspicion.
Themes of resilience, creativity, and community shine through, with Carmela’s scrapbooking skills mirroring her knack for piecing together clues. The series’ 'Thrillzies' style balances cozy elements—like recipes and crafting tips included in each book—with edgier suspense, set against New Orleans’ rich cultural backdrop. From zydeco rhythms to beignet-filled markets, Childs paints a vivid, immersive world that makes every mystery feel like a French Quarter adventure.
Why Scrapbooking Mysteries Resonates
Scrapbooking Mysteries has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, captivating readers with its relatable heroine and dynamic setting. Carmela’s blend of grit and heart, paired with her loyal friend Ava, who runs Juju Voodoo, makes for a duo that’s both endearing and entertaining. The series’ focus on New Orleans culture—its food, festivals, and folklore—adds authenticity and allure, drawing fans who crave a sensory-rich escape. With over 15 books, the series continues to thrive, proving its lasting appeal among cozy mystery lovers and inspiring readers to explore their own creativity.
- First Book Published: Keepsake Crimes, 2003
- Number of Books: Over 15 in the series
- Setting: New Orleans’ French Quarter
- Author: Laura Childs (Gerry Schmitt)
Ready to unravel a mystery with a side of scrapbooking flair? Grab Keepsake Crimes and dive into the Scrapbooking Mysteries’ thrilling New Orleans world!