Miss Julia Takes Over (Miss Julia Series #2) by Ann B. Ross
Viking Penguin, 2001
In the second book of the Miss Julia series, Miss Julia must tackle another of life’s disruptions when Hazel Marie doesn’t return from a dinner date with a man who Miss Julia is suspicious of for several reasons. Unable to persuade the local police that Hazel Marie is in danger, Miss Julia hires a private investigator. While Mr. Pickens, Miss Julia, and Little Lloyd search for Hazel Marie, they run into endless adventures, including a high-speed car chase on the track of a NASCAR speedway. But if Miss Julia doesn’t take over, who will?
Just like the first book in the series, Miss Julia Takes Over is a fun, fast-paced read with subtle moral themes.
The story picks up shortly after where the first book left off. Hazel Marie is starting to get her life on track, thanks to Miss Julia. It even looks Hazel Marie has finally landed the “right” kind of man. Meanwhile, Hazel Marie’s uncle is still trying to get his hands on Little Lloyd’s inheritance. As Little Lloyd settles in his new home, he forms a sweet attachment to Miss Julia. Housekeeper Lillian continues to hold down the home fort and provide sensible—and insensible—advice. Miss Julia is still engaging members of her church and police department in prickly interactions. And the first hint of romance blooms for Miss Julia—but she’s too busy running around, taking over, to see it happening.
Readers, Chapter Twenty-One includes a scene I doubt that I will soon forget. Without giving any spoilers, I suggest that you plan to read this chapter somewhere you can laugh out loud.
Now that I’ve whirled through two books with her, I’m thinking of Miss Julia as a friend. Does she drive me nuts sometimes? Absolutely. But I’ll continue to share my life with her, knowing that I will always learn something from her. Not to mention, I’ll never be bored when I’m with Miss Julia!
Can a reader pick up the second book in the series without having read the first? Yes, but I recommend reading the series in order. The ongoing entertainment in these stories is enhanced when readers can recall Miss Julia’s earlier escapades. (Click here to read my review of the first book, Miss Julia Speaks Her Mind.)
How about you, reader? What are your favorite funny moments from the Miss Julia series?
