Unveiling the Supernatural Layers: The Skinny on the Jinni

The Skinny on the Jinni by Gloria Lesher
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Year read: 2021

I received a free copy of the ebook from BookSirens in exchange for my review. All opinions shared are 100% my own.

Blythe Golightly is a retired professor researching the paranormal. It used to be purely academic research until a tragic accident left her with an ability to connect with the paranormal personally. Now, while one of her best friends is dying, Blythe finds herself in the middle of a non-custodial parent kidnapping, international intrigue, and aiding a young woman possessed with a jinni. 

There was a lot going on in this cozy. I loved the older, more self-assured Blythe as the main protagonist in a book that was about 50/50 on characters you will love and characters you will not. Overall, though, I felt like it suffered a lot of first-in-a-series issues, such as trying to hurry through world-building, not fully developing characters, and some timeline errors. For example, a character is said to leave the room to talk to the police but then is still in the room talking to Blythe, then returns from talking to the police! That was definitely missed in editing. I stopped and reread it several times, trying to figure out what was going on in the scene.

The storytelling and writing were clumsy at times as well. A romantic relationship materializes mostly out of thin air toward the end of the book, and some of the descriptions were odd, such as repeatedly referring to a character’s ethnicity long past when the reader should have internalized who that character was and odd turns of phrase such as “beaming at me with indifference”.

That being said, I’ve seen many a cozy series grow and develop over the course of several books. The characters, especially Blythe, Soledad, and Najia, are all likable enough and intriguing enough that I want to know what happens next for them, so I will read the second book, In a Black Monk Funk. I like to give series at least two books before abandoning or committing to them. At this time, there are only two books published in the series.

If you love an older protagonist and a new paranormal entity - a JINNI - then I think you will enjoy this cozy. I have hopes for the series since I think there is a lot of potential for future stories.

View all my reviews

A Tasty Slice of Mystery and Quirkiness: Ashes to Ashes, Crust to Crust

Ashes to Ashes, Crust to Crust by Mindy Quigley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Year read: 2023

I recently delved into the world of Mindy Quigley's "Ashes to Ashes, Crust to Crust," the second installment in the Deep Dish Mysteries series, and I must say, it was a delightful journey through the picturesque town of Geneva Bay, Wisconsin. While I can't quite give it a full five stars, several aspects of this book kept me eagerly turning the pages.

First and foremost, Delilah's character development is a notable highlight. In the first book of the series, she was a bit hard to warm up to, but in this installment, her independence and hard-headedness began to take on a more endearing quality. She's far from your typical sugar-coated heroine, which is a refreshing change. You might still want to smack some sense into her at times, but that's what makes her a compelling protagonist.

The supporting characters also shine in this story. We learn more about Auntie Biz and Sonya, adding depth to the ensemble cast. These characters bring their unique quirks and charm to the narrative, making the book richer and more engaging.

The central mystery, involving poison and a culinary contest rivalry, is intriguing and keeps you guessing throughout. However, the poison's portrayal might require some suspension of disbelief, as it doesn't entirely match reality. Nonetheless, it's a minor issue that doesn't significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the story.

The way Mindy Quigley weaves the town's gangster history into the narrative is a fun and unique touch. It adds depth and flavor to the setting, making Geneva Bay feel more alive.

One minor complaint is that I wished for more appearances from Butterball the Cat, who has quickly become a beloved character in this series. Butterball's antics add humor and heart to the story, and I hope to see even more of this furry sidekick in future installments.

In conclusion, "Ashes to Ashes, Crust to Crust" is a worthy addition to the Deep Dish Mysteries series. While it may not be a perfect five stars due to minor quibbles, it offers an engaging mystery, well-developed characters, and a unique setting. If you're a fan of cozy mysteries with a dash of humor and a slice of quirky characters, this series is worth sinking your teeth into. I'm looking forward to what Mindy Quigley serves up next!




View all my reviews

An Enchanting but Mixed Brew: Review of 'Witch is When The Penny Dropped' by Adele Abbott

Witch is When The Penny Dropped by Adele Abbott
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Year read: 2023

"Witch is When The Penny Dropped" by Adele Abbott is the 6th installment in the series. While it has its merits, I'm still determining if I'll continue with the rest of the books. On the positive side, the series offers quick, easy reads, and a few characters manage to entertain. It's a great way to while away an afternoon.

One of the drawbacks is that there are a staggering number of books in the series (47 at the time of this review), making it feel like a significant commitment. Additionally, the main character, Jill, comes across as a major pushover, allowing various family members to take advantage of her, which can be frustrating.

The "The Dark One" plotline feels a bit contrived. It's somewhat puzzling that a character so dangerous doesn't draw more attention or effort from the witch community, especially given Jill's supposedly powerful grandmother. It leaves me questioning the consistency of the world-building.

On the positive side, I appreciate that not all the mysteries in the series revolve around murders, as this book includes a subplot about a struggling business. It adds variety to the storyline.

In summary, "Witch is When The Penny Dropped" has its merits with its easygoing style and occasional entertainment. Still, the long series and some frustrating character dynamics give me pause about continuing. If you're looking for a light and undemanding way to spend an afternoon, this series might be worth exploring but don't expect groundbreaking storytelling or character development.




View all my reviews

Charming Spellford Cove: Double, Double, Tart and Trouble Delights

Double, Double, Tart and Trouble by Samantha Silver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Year read: 2023

Double, Double, Tart and Trouble by Samantha Silver is a delightful addition to the Spellford Cove series and a quick read. I have thus far enjoyed this series, and while it may not break new ground in its subgenre, it's undeniably pleasant and full of characters that you can't help but fall in love with. You know, the ones you just can't help but get attached to.

In this installment, we find ourselves knee-deep in yet another murder investigation in Spellford Cove, and it's clear that the little town has more than its fair share of poisonings.

The only downside of this book is its brevity. The story unfolds quite rapidly, and, much like the protagonist, Robin, we're quickly led to the conclusion about the identity of the murderer and their motivations. The murder plot seems to take a back seat to the relationships between the core characters, which are much more enjoyable to explore.

Ultimately, Double, Double, Tart, and Trouble is a delightful and enjoyable addition to the Spellford Cove series. It may follow some familiar tropes, but the camaraderie and charm of the characters keep us coming back for more.



View all my reviews

Unlocking the Magic of "Secrets and Scallywags": A Five-Star Journey into Cozy Mystery Adventure

Secrets and Scallywags by Elizabeth Pantley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Secrets and Scallywags" by Elizabeth Pantley is a delightful addition to the Magical Mystery Book Club series, and it deserves a solid five-star rating! This book takes the cozy mystery genre to a new level, offering readers a unique and enchanting experience.

One of the standout features of this series is the imaginative concept of book club members stepping into the world of the books they choose to read. In "Secrets and Scallywags," we embark on a swashbuckling adventure alongside the club members as they become entangled in the mysteries of pirates and stolen treasure. It's a refreshing departure from the typical murder-centric cozy mysteries, making it perfect for those who prefer a lighter, more whimsical approach to the genre.

Elizabeth Pantley's storytelling prowess shines brightly in this installment. The island community setting is charmingly vivid, and the mystery of the washed-up pirate boat with its rumored treasure adds excitement and intrigue to the plot. As the club members meet the spectral crew of the ill-fated ship, the story takes on a magical quality that keeps you glued to the pages.

What sets this book and the entire series apart is the camaraderie and diversity of the book club members. Their quirky personalities, unique strengths, and humorous interactions add depth and charm to the narrative. It's easy to become invested in their adventures and root for them as they strive to solve the mysteries that bind them to the books.

The ultimate quest to find the treasure and release the ghosts is a thrilling ride filled with clever twists and unexpected turns. Pantley masterfully keeps you guessing while delivering heartwarming moments of friendship and courage. The resolution is satisfying, and the journey is one you will remember.

"Secrets and Scallywags" is not just a cozy mystery; it's a delightful escape into the world of books within books. It's a reminder of the magic that can be found in reading and the power of imagination. Whether you're a fan of cozy mysteries or simply looking for a unique and engaging read, this book—and the entire Magical Mystery Book Club series—is an absolute gem. I've enjoyed the whole series and can't wait to see where Elizabeth Pantley takes us next!

View all my reviews

Magical Mystery: 5-Star Review of 'Whiskers and Lies' by Sofie Kelly

Whiskers and Lies by Sofie Kelly
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Year read: 2023

"Whiskers and Lies" by Sofie Kelly is an absolute gem in the beloved series that keeps improving with each installment. As a devoted fan, this book deserves a stellar 5-star rating and more!

Kathleen Paulson, our favorite librarian, once again finds herself in a perplexing mystery, and this time, it's a thrilling ride from start to finish. The Halloween-themed backdrop adds an extra layer of excitement to the story, and the author's vivid descriptions of spooky cupcakes had my mouth watering.

The real stars of the show are Kathleen's enchanting feline companions, Hercules and Owen. Their magical abilities and unwavering support make every adventure all the more enchanting. The bond between Kathleen and her cats is heartwarming and beautifully portrayed.

Sofie Kelly's writing is as enchanting as ever, with her knack for weaving an intricate plot while keeping the reader thoroughly engaged. Her characters are relatable and endearing, and her storytelling prowess shines brightly in "Whiskers and Lies."

In summary, "Whiskers and Lies" is a must-read for fans of the series. Fans will also be excited by the surprise ending! It's a delightful combination of cozy mystery, magical elements, and unforgettable characters. I can't recommend it enough, and I eagerly anticipate this excellent series's next adventure!




View all my reviews

Blooming Intrigue: A Review of 'The Chamomile Conspiracy' – A Cozy Mystery with a Botanical Twist

The Chamomile Conspiracy : A Garden Lover Cozy Mystery by Louise Marvin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I am a sucker for cat mysteries - and this one has some pretty adorable cats. I can't wait to learn more about them and follow along on their continued adventures. The real "sidekick" star of this show is the PLANTS, though. Our heroine, Pax, can communicate with plants. The plant facts and the personalities of each plant that help her along the way really add a new and fun angle to the cozy mystery genre.

Pax's world is upturned when she goes to visit her friend, Miss Millie, for the weekend and finds Miss Millie dying - her final words are accusations of murder and poison! Pax has only known Miss Millie for a couple of years but felt a strong bond and kinship with the sweet nonagenarian instantly. Pax is from the Harbor area but left when she was only 6 years old. Her parents passed away, and her hyper-controlling, emotionally distant grandparents took her to Boston. Pax has always longed for family and to know her history - especially her mother's family, whom her grandparents have denied her learning about. Revelations abound throughout the story as Pax finds herself, her people, and her family.

A fun start to a cozy mystery series. A lot smoother than many firsts! The world-building is already very engaging. I look forward to following along for more adventures with Pax, Sam, Angie, the plants, the cats, and the whole Harbor community.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

View all my reviews

Witches, Spiders, and Schemes (Destiny Falls Mystery & Magic, #4) by Elizabeth Pantley

Witches, Spiders, and Schemes (Destiny Falls Mystery & Magic #4) by Elizabeth Pantley

Publisher: Better Beginnings, Inc.

Publication date: November 10th 2021

My rating: 5 out of 5 stars

The link above is an affiliate link. If you make a purchase through it, I will receive a small amount of the sale, at no cost to you. It helps me make a little money to support my book reviewing hobby. Thank you! 

Publisher's description:

A magic mirror to an enchanted world... A mysterious ghost... A hilarious, perpetually annoyed witch... A brave, sassy cat... Two unexplained deaths and a mysterious community filled with secrets... Can Hayden and the people of Destiny Falls solve the mystery and return the community to its peaceful, enchanted existence? Hayden’s adventures in Destiny Falls continue in book four of the Destiny Falls Mystery & Magic series. Starting with a strange old woman at a cave and her father’s mysterious ferry journey, there are secrets to be unwound. The enchantments in Destiny Falls are showing cracks, and Hayden suspects that it is tied directly to her family, which has a history that’s more complex than she realized. When two bodies are found floating in the bay it’s clear that the mysteries surrounding Gladstone and the ferry are more dangerous than people realize. And then . . . those spiders. Luckily, Hayden and her sassy sidekick, Latifa have developed a group of family and friends in this enchanted place who are all ready and willing to help solve the mystery, and release Destiny Falls to resume its normal, amazing, enchanted existence. Hayden’s many adventures in Destiny Falls will keep you guessing with each book in this intriguing series.

My review:

I received a free copy of the ebook from the author in exchange for my review. All opinions shared are 100% my own.

More answers AND YET... more questions. Another installment in a fun, cozy mystery series. I usually read series that are already out so I don't have to wait between books! I do not like waiting! I want to know what happens next!!! I love how this one is building and building on itself. I would say these books can't be read stand-alone very well or, probably, shouldn't be read stand-alone. But that's okay... you'll want to read them all if you are a fan of cozies with elements of magic. I appreciate the level of intrigue and peril in these books... not too much. And balanced with a message of family and community. I honestly look forward to each book being published and it jumps to the head of my long to-read list when a new one is released.

Cookie Dough or Die by Virginia Lowell

Cookie Dough or Die (Cookie Cutter Shop Mystery #1) by Virginia Lowell

Publisher: Berkley Books

Publication date: April 5th 2011

My rating: 3 out of 5 stars

The link above is an affiliate link. If you make a purchase through it, I will receive a small amount of the sale, at no cost to you. It helps me make a little money to support my book reviewing hobby. Thank you! 

Publisher's description:

My review:

This book is the October pick from the Cozy Escape Book Club. This choice was a bit different for me since I prefer cozy mysteries with either a paranormal element or with cats... bonus points if it has both. This book does have a cute, little dog though!

It was a fun read, though it took some time to really get into it. Sometimes the dialogue between the two main characters was a struggle to figure who was saying what line. This did become a bit easier as you got to know the two characters better. As with many first-in-a-series, the world-building was a bit clunky at times and trying to do too much all at once. In particular, I felt like the main character Olivia could have been better developed. There were hints at her personality, but I never felt like there was a full picture of her created. Her business partner and best friend, Maddie, and her quirky mother, Ellie, were well-developed and delightful characters.

While the way the crime was solved was clever, I'm not sure how an entire series can be built on cookie cutters. Some of the choices the characters made in pursuit of answers seemed even more sketchy than usual for cozy mystery heroines. As is my usual practice, I will read the second book in the series at some point to see how it continues to build. I always like to read at least the first two books before I make a final decision on continuing a series. However, I didn't like it well enough to pick up the second book immediately. I'm pretty hit or miss on culinary cozies so I can't say if my "meh" status on this book is the genre or this particular book. I'll let you know later once I get back around to the second book.

Knifed In Nice (Travel P.I. Book 1) by Zara Keane

Knifed In Nice (Travel P.I. Book 1) by Zara Keane
Publisher: Beaverstone Press
Publication date: October 5th 2021
My rating: 5 out of 5 stars

The link above is an affiliate link. If you make a purchase through it, I will receive a small amount of the sale, at no cost to you. It helps me make a little money to support my book reviewing hobby. Thank you! 

Publisher's description: 

“I hadn’t planned on a trip to the French Riviera, but then, I hadn’t planned on shooting a London crime lord in his well-padded derrière.”

Meet Angel Doyle, a semi-reformed thief, and accidental P.I.

During an unfortunate incident at her first legit job in years, Angel fires a ketamine dart into one of London’s most notorious gangsters. Now she’s in disguise and on the run. With a bunch of thugs on her tail, she embarks on a mad chase across France, determined to stay one step ahead of the villains.

At least, that was the plan.

The moment out-of-work actor Sidney Foggington-Smythe sits next to her on the train to Paris, Angel has no idea she’s just met the second half of their crime-solving duo. How can a fashion-obsessed posh boy be anything but a hindrance? When fate forces the two twenty-somethings into the same stolen Mercedes, Angel is hampered by an unwanted sidekick, a kidnapped cat, and a corpse with a tendency to pull a Houdini. Now Angel and Sidney are in a race against time to reach Nice, find the killer, and clear their names before their next destination is the morgue. 

My review:

I received a free copy of the ebook from Netgalley in exchange for my review. All opinions shared are 100% my own.

Angel has had a bad, bad day and it just keeps getting worse. Fortunately, she at least doesn't have to go through it all alone when Sidney Foggington-Smythe befriends her on her get-away train and tags along for a whirlwind weekend adventure with a high body count of bad guys, a catnapped exotic pet, a feckless relative, and more. 

Angel and Sidney are delightful and their chemistry with one another is fantastic. The book is a wild, wild ride of adventure and coincidences. I couldn't put it down. It definitely had far more dead bodies than I'm used to in a cozy mystery (and with the punny title and cover - it definitely looks like it is trying to fit itself into the cozy category). It had lots of "aha" moments and many "Oooooooohhhhh" ones as well. Loved it and I can't wait to continue on with Angel and Sidney's adventures in the next in the series.

Author's Website

Mango, Mambo, and Murder by Raquel V. Reyes

Mango, Mambo, and Murder: A Caribbean Kitchen Mystery by Raquel V. Reyes

Publisher: Crooked Lane Books

Publication date: 12 Oct 2021

My rating: 5 out of 5 stars

The link above is an affiliate link. If you make a purchase through it, I will receive a small amount of the sale, at no cost to you. It helps me make a little money to support my book reviewing hobby. Thank you! 

Publisher's description:

Cuban-American cooking show star Miriam Quiñones-Smith becomes a seasoned sleuth in Raquel V. Reyes's Caribbean Kitchen Mystery debut, a savory treat for fans of Joanne Fluke and Jenn McKinlay.

Food anthropologist Miriam Quiñones-Smith's move from New York to Coral Shores, Miami, puts her academic career on hold to stay at home with her young son. Adding to her funk is an opinionated mother-in-law and a husband rekindling a friendship with his ex. Gracias to her best friend, Alma, she gets a short-term job as a Caribbean cooking expert on a Spanish-language morning TV show. But when the newly minted star attends a Women's Club luncheon, a socialite sitting at her table suddenly falls face-first into the chicken salad, never to nibble again.

When a second woman dies soon after, suspicions coalesce around a controversial Cuban herbalist, Dr. Fuentes--especially after the morning show's host collapses while interviewing him. Detective Pullman is not happy to find Miriam at every turn. After he catches her breaking into the doctor's apothecary, he enlists her help as eyes and ears to the places he can't access, namely the Spanish-speaking community and the tawny Coral Shores social scene.

As the ingredients to the deadly scheme begin blending together, Miriam is on the verge of learning how and why the women died. But her snooping may turn out to be a recipe for her own murder.

My review:

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my review. All opinions shared are 100% my own.

What a delightful cozy! I can’t wait to read more. It is very different than many cozies I have read, but it also hits many of the main points of “coziness” that I love and keeps me coming back to the genre. I liked the Spanish dialogue. I took four years in high school and college and have played around on keeping up my Spanish on Duolingo but I am nowhere near fluent. I was able to keep up with the Spanish dialogue fairly well though and the author provided enough contextual clues to figure out any of the more complex bits. 

The main character, Miriam, and her best friend, Alma, were wonderful. Miriam is so sweet and very real. There are so many likable characters… and, of course, a nemesis or two, though thankfully, one of those got their comeuppance in this first book in the series (I will NOT miss that character going forward). AND, there’s a cat… and kittens… so you know that always adds bonus points in my book. I learned a lot about Cuban cuisine as well. I had to look up so many things and… YUM! 

First installments often have clunky world-building but Ms. Reyes did a fantastic job of building all the various worlds in which Miriam finds herself. I am definitely looking forward to the next book in this series. 

Fun stuff: 

Sign up for the author’s newsletter here: http://rvreyes.com/newsletter/  She promises there will be recipes! 

About the author:

Raquel V. Reyes writes stories with Latina characters. Her Cuban-American heritage, Miami, and the Caribbean feature prominently in her work. Raquel is a co-chair for SleuthFest. Her short story “A Star Goes Dark” is in the 15th Malice Domestic anthology.

Dogged by Death (A Furry Friends Mystery #1) by Laura Scott

 

Dogged by Death (A Furry Friends Mystery #1) by Laura Scott

Publisher: Crooked Lane Books

Publication date: July 13th, 2021

My rating: 4 out of 5 stars

The link above is an affiliate link. If you make a purchase through it, I will receive a small amount of the sale, at no cost to you. It helps me make a little money to support my book reviewing hobby. Thank you! 

Publisher's description:

In Laura Scott's Furry Friends series debut, veterinarian Ally Winter must collar the killer of a shifty lawyer. Does the dead man's dog know who committed the arf-ul crime?

Ally Winter is going through a ruff patch. The thirty-something veterinarian lost her fiance, her clinic, and her savings in rapid succession. So when Ally's grandfather undergoes hip replacement surgery, she moves back to Willow Bluff, Wisconsin, to care for him. She arrives home, tail between her legs, only to find sleazy lawyer Marty Shawlin murdered in his home office. And the only witness was Marty's faithful boxer, Roxy.

Quick as a greyhound, Noah Jorgensen is on the case. The good news is, he's the best detective around. The bad news, at least the way Ally sees it, is that Noah is still just as fetching as he was back in high school. He also just happens to have witnessed every embarrassing incident that befell accident-prone Ally--including the fire-ant attack that set tongues wagging and won her the unshakable nickname Hot Pants.

Meanwhile, true-crime aficionado Gramps fancies himself a sleuth, and he is doggedly determined to sniff out the culprit himself...with Ally's reluctant help, of course. Ally has no choice but to team up with Noah--and the irrepressible Roxy--to solve the case while keeping Gramps on a short leash.

Ally had better learn some new tricks, lickety-split. Because if she can't bring the killer to heel, she won't just be playing dead.

My review:

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my review. All opinions shared are 100% my own.

I really loved the characters. Gramps (Oscar) is, well, a real character  -- a Vietnam veteran who watches too much Dateline and reads too many true crime books and fancies himself an amateur detective. His granddaughter, Dr. Ally Winter, is a veterinarian (yes, a vet & a vet) who returned to her small hometown after her ex-husband steals their money and runs off with the vet tech from their joint veterinary practice in the big city. She winds up getting dragged into a murder investigation in an attempt to keep her meddlesome grandfather safe. Ally, Gramps, and Noah, the ACTUAL detective in charge of the case, are all likable characters. Of course, Roxy the boxer is the best character and she ultimately helps solve the case. 

This definitely smacks of “first in a series”. I find that a lot of cozies (and probably other series but I don’t read many other serial works in other genres) suffer from the same first in the series tropes. It always seems like the characters make some of the most outlandish of choices in these first forays. Ally and her grandfather both keep digging and digging and poking their noses in places even after some pretty dangerous and threatening things have happened. The motive for murder also seemed weak to me. While the world-building and character development were good, I think the basic murder mystery plot left a bit to be desired. However, I liked the characters enough to read more when the next book is released. I am quite certain that the balancing necessary for the first book in a series is a tough one so I try not to judge too harshly on the first books. 

All in all, it has the potential to be a fun cozy mystery with a lot of animals involved since the main character is a veterinarian. There was a definite hint to some romance with the detective. I really hope the teensy tiny hint to another possible love interest doesn’t go anywhere since I am definitely not a fan of love triangles. Time will tell on that front. I didn’t realize until I read the author’s bio that she is considered a Christian fiction author. Nothing in the book seemed overtly Christian to me. It was a pleasant, clean cozy mystery with the potential for a lot of intriguing adventures in the future. 

About the author:

From the bio page on her website: I'm often asked when I started writing and I have to be honest, I can't remember when I wasn't writing. I loved books as a kid and like many authors, I ran out of stories that I liked to read so I began to make up my own. I wrote my first teen novel when I was thirteen and my first romance when I was seventeen. Of course, neither manuscript was very good, but I never gave up and after I finished Graduate school I decided to take some time for myself and get back to my writing. I'm so glad I did!

I grew up reading faith-based books by Grace Livingston Hill so writing for Love Inspired Suspense is a dream come true. I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I enjoy writing them.

I currently live in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with my husband of thirty-three years. My daughter Nicole is married to a wonderful man named Mike and my son Jonathan is a Registered Nurse at the same hospital where I work. I'm so blessed to have such a wonderful family. 

I'm a dog lover and had to put my Westie named Mac down a year or so ago. I still miss him but now have a chance to dog sit for my sisters and brother. I try to incorporate pets in my stories as much as possible

In May of 2017, I was the humble recipient of the Wisconsin Romance Writers Lifetime Achievement Award. I'm blessed to be a member of such an amazing group!

A Charming Yet Superstitious Journey: Lost Under a Ladder by Linda O. Johnston

Lost Under a Ladder by Linda O. Johnston
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Year read: 2017

Are you searching for a whimsical story set in a town steeped in superstition? If so, this book might be the one for you. While some aspects may leave you scratching your head, it's worth diving into for the endearing characters and unique setting.

The story occurs in Destiny, a town where superstitions rule the day. The word "superstition" appears frequently, which can get repetitive. The author establishes early on that this town is built on superstitions. Still, the word is overused in various forms throughout the book.

The plot itself might seem a bit far-fetched at times. Rory, the protagonist, visits Destiny after her fiancé tragically dies moments after walking under a ladder. Her quest? To determine whether superstitions hold any truth. It's a daring move and not one many would make. Once she arrives in Destiny, Rory, a pet store manager in her hometown, finds herself thrust into an unexpected role. The local pet shop owner, who doesn't know Rory, asks her to manage her business while she recovers. It's a questionable decision, both by the business owner and Rory. Still, it serves as a plot device to move the story forward.

Despite the occasional clunky plot device, the characters in the book are genuinely likable. Rory's character grows on you, as do others like Justin and the quirky residents of Destiny. As the background story unfolds, you see the potential for an enjoyable series. Whether I'll continue reading the series is up in the air. Still, one more book before making a final judgment is worth considering.

In summary, while this book has its quirks, it offers an endearing cast of characters and a charming, albeit superstitious, setting that may be worth exploring further. Read it to see if it's the start of a series you'll want to follow.




View all my reviews

Analyzing The Cupcake Caper: A Cozy Mystery with a Scientific Twist and an Adorable Feline Sidekick

The Cupcake Caper by Kelle Z. Riley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I like cozy mysteries... especially ones with cats or dogs or other adorable pets who get involved with solving crime. You need to engage in a little willful suspension of disbelief when it comes to cozy mysteries. Some of my favorite mystery solvers are librarians, pet store managers, and retirees - ordinary people who have a knack for sorting out clues to figure out whodunnit. I found Ms. Riley's choice of a scientist for her Sherlock-esque heroine, Dr. Bree Mayfield-Watson, in this book to be inspired. You really could see someone who is very analytical tackling solving a mystery for the sheer sake of discovery! This first in a series has the ubiquitous plot device of our main character being a suspect in a murder case - a storyline often used to get an ordinary person involved in solving a crime in order to clear their name. Given how logical and left-brained Bree is, I think she could become engaged in figuring out who murdered her boss without that particular plot device.

I was annoyed - put off, maybe? - a little by a couple unlikely choices Bree made, particularly when she withheld information from the police. Given that she endangered herself at almost every instance of this, I hope our main character learns in future additions to the series! The plot twist at the end was fun and is definitely setting up for a new twist on the cozy mystery genre with this series. I will definitely read the next book in the series when it comes out (no date given yet).

I can't forget to mention Sherlock - and I don't mean Bree. Sherlock is the cat Bree winds up with. Sherlock helps Bree solve the mystery. He is one smart kitty. I definitely hope we see as much and more of him in future installments. So, yes, even with our analytical, scientist heroine, there's a cute pet involved. There is no romance yet in the series either though there is potential for it. I do like to highlight when there is "sexy" content in a book, and there is none in this book. Just some possibly too-goofy ogling of two men in Bree's life.

Disclosure Statement:

I received a free Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my opinions or the content of my review. My feedback is voluntary and unbiased. My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an opportunity to read and review this book.

View all my reviews