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Nightmare, Arizona #2
Drowning at the Diner
Death, danger, and dirty dishes in Nightmare, ArizonaHer car might be fixed, but that doesn’t mean Olivia Kendrick is leaving the town of Nightmare, Arizona just yet. As she settles into her new life working at Nightmare Sanctuary Haunted House, Olivia still wants to know what Damien Shackleford really is, other than handsome, brooding, and a total jerk.
When the new dishwasher at the Lusty Lunch Counter is found drowned in a sink full of dirty dishes, Olivia’s friend Ella is the main suspect. After all, the victim had been stalking her. Meanwhile, the arrival of a mysterious stranger will lead to an astonishing discovery about the diner owner’s past.
Olivia will enlist her supernatural friends at Nightmare Sanctuary to help her track down the truth and clear Ella’s name. At the same time, Olivia begins to hear a phantom voice from an abandoned mine at the edge of Nightmare, and it seems to be tied to the disappearance of Damien’s father. Is Olivia tapping into her own supernatural ability, or is something sinister lurking in the old tunnels…?
Drowning at the Diner is book 2 in the Nightmare, Arizona paranormal cozy mystery series. This lighthearted series is about starting over, found family, and solving murders in a quirky old mining town with a secret supernatural community.
When the new dishwasher at the Lusty Lunch Counter is found drowned in a sink full of dirty dishes, Olivia’s friend Ella is the main suspect. After all, the victim had been stalking her. Meanwhile, the arrival of a mysterious stranger will lead to an astonishing discovery about the diner owner’s past.
Olivia will enlist her supernatural friends at Nightmare Sanctuary to help her track down the truth and clear Ella’s name. At the same time, Olivia begins to hear a phantom voice from an abandoned mine at the edge of Nightmare, and it seems to be tied to the disappearance of Damien’s father. Is Olivia tapping into her own supernatural ability, or is something sinister lurking in the old tunnels…?
Drowning at the Diner is book 2 in the Nightmare, Arizona paranormal cozy mystery series. This lighthearted series is about starting over, found family, and solving murders in a quirky old mining town with a secret supernatural community.
198 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 13, 2023
323 people are currently reading
227 people want to read
About the author
Beth Dolgner
46 books442 followersBeth Dolgner writes paranormal fiction and non-fiction. Her interest in things that go bump in the night really took off on a trip to Savannah, Georgia, so it's fitting that the Betty Boo, Ghost Hunter Series of paranormal romance novels takes place in that spooky city. Beth's young adult novels, the steampunk Manifest and the urban fantasy A Talent for Death, also have paranormal elements. Her non-fiction work includes Georgia Spirits and Specters and Everyday Voodoo.
Since Georgia is obviously on her mind, you might think Beth lives there. Well, she did, but these days she and her husband live in Berlin, Germany, with their three cats. Beth misses those mild Georgia winters and proper iced tea, but there's no reason her characters can't enjoy those things.
Beth also enjoys giving presentations on Victorian death and mourning traditions as well as Victorian Spiritualism. She has been a volunteer at an historic cemetery, a ghost tour guide and a paranormal investigator. Right now she's chronicling the best spooky spots around Europe.
Beth is online at www.BethDolgner.com.
Betty Boo, Ghost Hunter Series
Ghost of a Threat,
Ghost of a Whisper
Ghost of a Memory
Ghost of a Hope
Manifest
Georgia Spirits and Specters,
Everyday Voodoo
Since Georgia is obviously on her mind, you might think Beth lives there. Well, she did, but these days she and her husband live in Berlin, Germany, with their three cats. Beth misses those mild Georgia winters and proper iced tea, but there's no reason her characters can't enjoy those things.
Beth also enjoys giving presentations on Victorian death and mourning traditions as well as Victorian Spiritualism. She has been a volunteer at an historic cemetery, a ghost tour guide and a paranormal investigator. Right now she's chronicling the best spooky spots around Europe.
Beth is online at www.BethDolgner.com.
Betty Boo, Ghost Hunter Series
Ghost of a Threat,
Ghost of a Whisper
Ghost of a Memory
Ghost of a Hope
Manifest
Georgia Spirits and Specters,
Everyday Voodoo
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
March 22, 2025
I liked it though it didn't have so many funny moments as the first one
November 28, 2023
What a great series, I am totally enjoying binge reading them.
July 3, 2023
Well, I Kinda Didn't See That Coming! Or Did I?
by Barbara Kelley
"Drowning at the Diner" is Book 2 of the Nightmare, Arizona Paranormal Cozy Mysteries, written by Beth Dolgner. I love this series and the wacky group of paranormal beings that it encompasses. This series is about Olivia, a divorced woman from Nashville, Tennessee, who got stuck in Nightmare, Arizona on her way to live with her brother and sister-in-law in Los Angeles, California. In book 1, her car broke down near Nightmare, Arizona, and while in that town, found herself drawn into staying there. She works at The Sanctuary, an old Psychiatric Hospital that was turned into a Haunted House for tourists and residents of Nightmare, Arizona. The Sanctuary is the residence of nearly all of the paranormals who work there: vampires, werewolf, witches, and so on. All of these people are really nice people who feel safe at The Sanctuary. The former owner had been missing for six months at the beginning of Book 1. His son, Damien Shackleford, arrived to take over the Haunted House, and most of the paranormal beings living there don't trust him or like him. The other people of Nightmare are mostly humans, but some of them have paranormal abilities, such as being psychic, or having chill bumps going up and down their arms when they come into contact with a shady character. Olivia, too, seems to have some sort of ability, although she refuses to believe it. Damien seems to think Olivia is a Conjurer: such as, conjuring up a note from The Haunted House, in order to get a job there. In Book 1, she solves a murder case. In this book, she has to solve a murder case, in order to get her friend, Ella, a waitress, freed from jail. She does so with the help of her friends from the Haunted House, including Damien, who we find has a few paranormal abilities of his own. Olivia also hears a strange voice speaking from an abandoned copper mine that was owned by the previous owner of the Haunted House. We learn some interesting facts about that job notice that Olivia found on the Library's bulletin board in Book 1. I guessed who the killer was, but didn't know why this person killed the victim. I didn't guess until a chapter or two before they revealed themself. I just love Olivia and Damien and hope this will become a love story in a future book. I gave this book a 5 star rating and recommend it to anybody who likes paranormal mysteries.
I received an advanced copy for free via BookFunnel, and this is my voluntary and honest review.
by Barbara Kelley
"Drowning at the Diner" is Book 2 of the Nightmare, Arizona Paranormal Cozy Mysteries, written by Beth Dolgner. I love this series and the wacky group of paranormal beings that it encompasses. This series is about Olivia, a divorced woman from Nashville, Tennessee, who got stuck in Nightmare, Arizona on her way to live with her brother and sister-in-law in Los Angeles, California. In book 1, her car broke down near Nightmare, Arizona, and while in that town, found herself drawn into staying there. She works at The Sanctuary, an old Psychiatric Hospital that was turned into a Haunted House for tourists and residents of Nightmare, Arizona. The Sanctuary is the residence of nearly all of the paranormals who work there: vampires, werewolf, witches, and so on. All of these people are really nice people who feel safe at The Sanctuary. The former owner had been missing for six months at the beginning of Book 1. His son, Damien Shackleford, arrived to take over the Haunted House, and most of the paranormal beings living there don't trust him or like him. The other people of Nightmare are mostly humans, but some of them have paranormal abilities, such as being psychic, or having chill bumps going up and down their arms when they come into contact with a shady character. Olivia, too, seems to have some sort of ability, although she refuses to believe it. Damien seems to think Olivia is a Conjurer: such as, conjuring up a note from The Haunted House, in order to get a job there. In Book 1, she solves a murder case. In this book, she has to solve a murder case, in order to get her friend, Ella, a waitress, freed from jail. She does so with the help of her friends from the Haunted House, including Damien, who we find has a few paranormal abilities of his own. Olivia also hears a strange voice speaking from an abandoned copper mine that was owned by the previous owner of the Haunted House. We learn some interesting facts about that job notice that Olivia found on the Library's bulletin board in Book 1. I guessed who the killer was, but didn't know why this person killed the victim. I didn't guess until a chapter or two before they revealed themself. I just love Olivia and Damien and hope this will become a love story in a future book. I gave this book a 5 star rating and recommend it to anybody who likes paranormal mysteries.
I received an advanced copy for free via BookFunnel, and this is my voluntary and honest review.
March 18, 2024
I received a free audiobook copy from Tantor Audio and voluntarily reviewed it.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and was excited to continue the series. Drowning at the Diner is a great sequel, it follows Olivia as she gets involved in another murder mystery. This time her friend at the diner Ella gets framed for the murder of the dishwasher at the diner who was obsessed with her. I like this paranormal cozy mystery series so far, the paranormal aspect is prominent, the mysteries are good and there are lots of interesting and likable characters.
I liked the mystery in this book. It kept me guessing and while I was sure Ella hadn't done it, I wasn't sure who did it or how they framed her. There are some interesting developments and reveals along the way. I did figure a few things out shortly before the characters did and while I hadn't predicted the murderer I did think of this person maybe being the murderer, so I wasn't too surprised, but I wasn't sure about the motive. The vital clue that confirms who the killer is occurs right before Olivia figures it out. I liked that Olivia was the one to figure out who the murderer was.
I enjoyed being back in the town of Nightmare and reading more about Olivia as well as her friends and the people who work at the haunted house. There are some new characters too, with some interesting reveals regarding them. I like learning more about the paranormal and I like how it's a prominent aspect of the book. I like the narrator for this book and hope the rest of the series will be done in audio as well as I enjoy listening to it.
To summarize: This was a great sequel and I again had a lot of fun listening to it. I liked reading about Olivia as she gets involved in another mystery and is determined to clear her friend Ella's name who is the main suspects. The mystery was an interesting with some great developments along the way. The vital clue is toward the end right before Olivia figures it out. I like how she is the one to figure things out. While I hadn't predicted who the murderer was I had considered this person as the murderer, so I wasn't too surprised, but I wasn't sure about the motive. I enjoyed being back in Nightmare and reading about this town and the people who live there. It's a fun series so far and I like the narrator's style for these books, so I hope the rest of the series will be in audio as well.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and was excited to continue the series. Drowning at the Diner is a great sequel, it follows Olivia as she gets involved in another murder mystery. This time her friend at the diner Ella gets framed for the murder of the dishwasher at the diner who was obsessed with her. I like this paranormal cozy mystery series so far, the paranormal aspect is prominent, the mysteries are good and there are lots of interesting and likable characters.
I liked the mystery in this book. It kept me guessing and while I was sure Ella hadn't done it, I wasn't sure who did it or how they framed her. There are some interesting developments and reveals along the way. I did figure a few things out shortly before the characters did and while I hadn't predicted the murderer I did think of this person maybe being the murderer, so I wasn't too surprised, but I wasn't sure about the motive. The vital clue that confirms who the killer is occurs right before Olivia figures it out. I liked that Olivia was the one to figure out who the murderer was.
I enjoyed being back in the town of Nightmare and reading more about Olivia as well as her friends and the people who work at the haunted house. There are some new characters too, with some interesting reveals regarding them. I like learning more about the paranormal and I like how it's a prominent aspect of the book. I like the narrator for this book and hope the rest of the series will be done in audio as well as I enjoy listening to it.
To summarize: This was a great sequel and I again had a lot of fun listening to it. I liked reading about Olivia as she gets involved in another mystery and is determined to clear her friend Ella's name who is the main suspects. The mystery was an interesting with some great developments along the way. The vital clue is toward the end right before Olivia figures it out. I like how she is the one to figure things out. While I hadn't predicted who the murderer was I had considered this person as the murderer, so I wasn't too surprised, but I wasn't sure about the motive. I enjoyed being back in Nightmare and reading about this town and the people who live there. It's a fun series so far and I like the narrator's style for these books, so I hope the rest of the series will be in audio as well.
October 14, 2024
Another fun read perfect for October!
Book 2 dives deeper into both the characters and the world they live in. We also get to see a darker side to life as a supernatural.
I enjoyed reading about our main character settling into Nightmare more. Sometimes you have to get lost to truly find yourself. :)
Damien is quite the enigma wrapped in mystery isn't he? With time and some healing, I hope he's able to open himself up to the amazing world around him more - and begin to let the people around him in.
This was a fun myself with a twist I did not see coming! It's always fun for me to be surprised by who the baddie is.
This is a series I highly recommend!
Book 2 dives deeper into both the characters and the world they live in. We also get to see a darker side to life as a supernatural.
I enjoyed reading about our main character settling into Nightmare more. Sometimes you have to get lost to truly find yourself. :)
Damien is quite the enigma wrapped in mystery isn't he? With time and some healing, I hope he's able to open himself up to the amazing world around him more - and begin to let the people around him in.
This was a fun myself with a twist I did not see coming! It's always fun for me to be surprised by who the baddie is.
This is a series I highly recommend!
August 25, 2025
Again, I love her cozy mysteries. And I literally binge read them once I start. I wish I had waited until October for these because they are a perfect cozy spooky read, but now that I have started the series, I am compelled to binge until I am finished.
November 26, 2024
Olivia has decided to stay in Nightmare, she’s making friends, feels accepted and enjoying life. But when her friend Ella is accused of murder, she has to start investigating.
There seems to be an ironclad case against Ella but Olivia knows her friend isn’t guilty. The person she is accused of killing was an obnoxious person who had been hassling Ella, there is a new occupant of he motel that Mama has a bad feeling about, and the murdered man’s travelling companion is in the local campground.
This has a good mystery as more information comes out about the Nightmare citizens.
One of the things I love about this book is the names of the different buildings. As Nightmare is a tourist town that is based on its old west history, the names correspond with both. The Italian restaurant is the Spaghetti Western; the coffee house is in the old morgue and is called Caffeinated Cadaver.
This book has a good mystery, interesting characters and events.
It is an easy, fun, quick read.
There seems to be an ironclad case against Ella but Olivia knows her friend isn’t guilty. The person she is accused of killing was an obnoxious person who had been hassling Ella, there is a new occupant of he motel that Mama has a bad feeling about, and the murdered man’s travelling companion is in the local campground.
This has a good mystery as more information comes out about the Nightmare citizens.
One of the things I love about this book is the names of the different buildings. As Nightmare is a tourist town that is based on its old west history, the names correspond with both. The Italian restaurant is the Spaghetti Western; the coffee house is in the old morgue and is called Caffeinated Cadaver.
This book has a good mystery, interesting characters and events.
It is an easy, fun, quick read.
January 17, 2025
well that was fun! I can't believe I am thoroughly enjoying murder mysteries. who am I?
I liked that with every book, we learn a bit more about each of the characters. At first I thought it was going to be someone at the horror house because
I knew that Damion was going to be the main interest but is sure moving slowly. i like that they are taking time to build up their friendship. I wish there was a lot more of some of the other characters in there. I really want to know so much more about the witches!
Will be continuing.
I liked that with every book, we learn a bit more about each of the characters. At first I thought it was going to be someone at the horror house because
I knew that Damion was going to be the main interest but is sure moving slowly. i like that they are taking time to build up their friendship. I wish there was a lot more of some of the other characters in there. I really want to know so much more about the witches!
Will be continuing.
August 28, 2025
"Drowning at the Diner" by Beth Dolgner is book two in the "Nightmare, Arizona" series. Olivia is such a fun character to follow. I enjoy seeing what type of situation she is going to happen upon next. In this book, she is trying to help clear her friend, Ella, of a murder. While doing this, she gets blamed for another incident. I would have to say my favorite scene was when Olivia catches Damien without his shirt on. Beth does a great job writing mystery type books with supernatural elements. This book was a great continuation in a series, and I can't wait to read book three.
October 26, 2025
I am really loving this series! I love the town, the atmosphere, the characters, everything. The mysteries are fun and there's an overarching mystery that you get a bit more information about in each book while solving the immediate mystery. Love it! I listened to most of this on audio and I really enjoyed the narration. Great job!
June 20, 2024
I liked the first one better. The ending obvi left a cliffhanger for a 3rd book, but ended REAL abruptly.
January 15, 2025
3.25 stars
September 24, 2024
My second Nightmare in two days
I highly recommended Ms Beth's Nightmare Arizona series! Fun and quick, these mysteries are quick, fun, and engrossing. While the characters are supernatural, they are so very human - though, being human may not be the best thing to call them, as humans can be a lot more monsterous than the supposed "monsters" they are so afraid of. Humans fear anything different and slaughter even the most innocent - children and others whose only "crime" is being in some was out of their concept of normal. I felt so sad for the perpetrator in this story - but his human side made him just as bad in some ways as a bog standard human. Ah, I say too much! Grab the first book, then you will want to become a citizen of the quirky town of Nightmare just as I do!
I highly recommended Ms Beth's Nightmare Arizona series! Fun and quick, these mysteries are quick, fun, and engrossing. While the characters are supernatural, they are so very human - though, being human may not be the best thing to call them, as humans can be a lot more monsterous than the supposed "monsters" they are so afraid of. Humans fear anything different and slaughter even the most innocent - children and others whose only "crime" is being in some was out of their concept of normal. I felt so sad for the perpetrator in this story - but his human side made him just as bad in some ways as a bog standard human. Ah, I say too much! Grab the first book, then you will want to become a citizen of the quirky town of Nightmare just as I do!
April 7, 2025
The second book to this series was okay. The audiobook was narrated well but I think I kind of expected more paranormal out of the book. I figured that there would be more in this second one considering that the characters have been introduced more and the main character has come into information about themselves. However, it's just not there.
The mystery was okay. I do like the haunted house I just want more. I'll give series one more book but it might not just be for me.
The mystery was okay. I do like the haunted house I just want more. I'll give series one more book but it might not just be for me.
August 28, 2023
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Coziness: ☕☕☕☕☕
Mystery: 🔎🔎🔎🔎🔎
Paranormal: 👻👻👻👻👻
Plot: 5/5
Series: Nightmare, AZ Paranormal Cozy Mystery
Place: Nightmare, AZ
Tropes: Paranormal, Cozy Mystery
TW: Death, Drowning, Violence
Main Characters: Olivia, Damien, Mama, Ella, Margot, Claw, Wynn, Cowan
To say that I was excited to start Drowning is an understatement. I absolutely fell in love with the first book and have been anticipating the second installment. It only brought me back to the happiness that is Nightmare, AZ.
I would suggest you read these in order to get the max out of the books, but it's not a necessity. There is enough recounting of previous events that you can get through no problem.
Olivia is such a force to be reckoned with, not only as a strong willed woman but also supernatural being. She has a lot to learn about herself still in who she has become and what she has to offer. I enjoyed her banter between characters and her attitude towards most things. She was determined to find the killer because she knew something was amiss.
I'm starting to love Damien more and more with each book. He has sooo much to offer but he isn't ready for everything all at once. He is still finding who he is in Nightmare and himself. With his father missing it leaves so many open ended questions that can't be answered. But I think with the help of Olivia they can find some of those answers.
This cozy mystery was unlike any other I have read. It gave so much chase to find whodunnit and why. I absolutely couldn't get enough of the chase and the characters involved. There were many characters but it made this book even better with them!
I can't wait to read the next installment upon release day!
Coziness: ☕☕☕☕☕
Mystery: 🔎🔎🔎🔎🔎
Paranormal: 👻👻👻👻👻
Plot: 5/5
Series: Nightmare, AZ Paranormal Cozy Mystery
Place: Nightmare, AZ
Tropes: Paranormal, Cozy Mystery
TW: Death, Drowning, Violence
Main Characters: Olivia, Damien, Mama, Ella, Margot, Claw, Wynn, Cowan
To say that I was excited to start Drowning is an understatement. I absolutely fell in love with the first book and have been anticipating the second installment. It only brought me back to the happiness that is Nightmare, AZ.
I would suggest you read these in order to get the max out of the books, but it's not a necessity. There is enough recounting of previous events that you can get through no problem.
Olivia is such a force to be reckoned with, not only as a strong willed woman but also supernatural being. She has a lot to learn about herself still in who she has become and what she has to offer. I enjoyed her banter between characters and her attitude towards most things. She was determined to find the killer because she knew something was amiss.
I'm starting to love Damien more and more with each book. He has sooo much to offer but he isn't ready for everything all at once. He is still finding who he is in Nightmare and himself. With his father missing it leaves so many open ended questions that can't be answered. But I think with the help of Olivia they can find some of those answers.
This cozy mystery was unlike any other I have read. It gave so much chase to find whodunnit and why. I absolutely couldn't get enough of the chase and the characters involved. There were many characters but it made this book even better with them!
I can't wait to read the next installment upon release day!
June 13, 2023
Olivia has decided to stick around Nightmare, AZ. The new dishwasher at the Lusty Lunch Counter is murdered and her favorite waitress is the main suspect. Olivia knows that her buddy Ella couldn't possibly have offed someone. So she sets off to solve the mystery and investigates some interesting characters who just came to town. We learn some interesting things about Jeff, the owner of the diner, and his past as well. Damien, Olivia's boss, is still convinced that she's a conjurer and can make things happen just by wishing for them. Olivia is still not convinced but agrees to allow Mr Broody McBrooderson to help her "control her powers". Damien believes that Olivia and her dad may be connected somehow after she hears someone speaking inside a locked mine. I'm sensing a possible enemies to lovers vibe eventually, despite this not being a romance. Or maybe I'm just conjuring? 😉
I loved this second installment of the Nightmare, Arizona Paranormal Cozy Mysteries series. It was such a quick and fun read. I have always been a fan of the cozy mystery genre and love to read them in between my smutty books as a "cleanse" for my brain. lol! This story was a perfect distraction from everyday life. I love that Olivia chose to stick around, and I'm looking forward to learning more about these characters at the sanctuary. And i'm especially interested in learning about this Damien guy.
Thank you to Bookmojo and the Author for the ARC. So happy to have the opportunity to continue the series!
I loved this second installment of the Nightmare, Arizona Paranormal Cozy Mysteries series. It was such a quick and fun read. I have always been a fan of the cozy mystery genre and love to read them in between my smutty books as a "cleanse" for my brain. lol! This story was a perfect distraction from everyday life. I love that Olivia chose to stick around, and I'm looking forward to learning more about these characters at the sanctuary. And i'm especially interested in learning about this Damien guy.
Thank you to Bookmojo and the Author for the ARC. So happy to have the opportunity to continue the series!
June 23, 2023
Good
Olivia is beginning to settle down in Nightmare (although I do hope she’s told her brother where she is so he doesn’t think she’s vanished!), and she’s reluctant to move on. Her new job is interesting, her coworkers have shown her an absolutely fascinating world, and she’s having fun.
That is, right up until her friend Ellie, the waitress at Olivia’s favourite diner, is accused of murdering the creepy new dishwasher!
Since Olivia knows at least one Nightmare Sanctuary worker has a motive for murder, she’s determined to find out who the real culprit is…
I like this series. I find Olivia somewhat amusing, and definitely a busybody in the making; but her character is interesting and her new beginning is kind of fun to follow along with. I love the fact she is so accepting of the reality of the supernatural around her, and isn’t inclined to just freak out about it- even if she does think she’s perfectly normal!
I am honestly looking forward to seeing what she can do, and what she and Damien discover about Baxter, and maybe even about her own potential abilities.
And although the books do have completed mysteries, and we’re not left hanging as far as they are concerned, I am both enjoying the slower pace of the overarching storyline, and yet anxious to find out more.
This is an entertaining series, with a mature heroine and a fascinating supporting cast of characters in a decidedly Western style. It’s quirky, and fun, and paranormal mystery lovers will enjoy the read, and the fact that this is just a little different.
Olivia is beginning to settle down in Nightmare (although I do hope she’s told her brother where she is so he doesn’t think she’s vanished!), and she’s reluctant to move on. Her new job is interesting, her coworkers have shown her an absolutely fascinating world, and she’s having fun.
That is, right up until her friend Ellie, the waitress at Olivia’s favourite diner, is accused of murdering the creepy new dishwasher!
Since Olivia knows at least one Nightmare Sanctuary worker has a motive for murder, she’s determined to find out who the real culprit is…
I like this series. I find Olivia somewhat amusing, and definitely a busybody in the making; but her character is interesting and her new beginning is kind of fun to follow along with. I love the fact she is so accepting of the reality of the supernatural around her, and isn’t inclined to just freak out about it- even if she does think she’s perfectly normal!
I am honestly looking forward to seeing what she can do, and what she and Damien discover about Baxter, and maybe even about her own potential abilities.
And although the books do have completed mysteries, and we’re not left hanging as far as they are concerned, I am both enjoying the slower pace of the overarching storyline, and yet anxious to find out more.
This is an entertaining series, with a mature heroine and a fascinating supporting cast of characters in a decidedly Western style. It’s quirky, and fun, and paranormal mystery lovers will enjoy the read, and the fact that this is just a little different.
October 12, 2024
Review of Drowning at the Diner (Nightmare, Arizona #2) by Beth Dolgner
I loved Drowning at the Diner by Beth Dolgner! This book is a fantastic continuation of the Nightmare, Arizona series. It offers a fun, fast-paced read filled with strong, interesting characters that kept me thoroughly entertained. The narrative flows seamlessly, making it hard to put down.
One of the most exciting aspects of this instalment is the ongoing development of the protagonist's powers. As we delve deeper into the story, I eagerly await answers to questions like, "Is she a witch?" This sense of anticipation adds an intriguing layer to the plot, keeping readers engaged.
Additionally, I genuinely appreciate the themes of acceptance and tolerance woven throughout the story. The way the characters support one another creates a warm atmosphere that resonates deeply.
After finishing book one, I couldn’t resist diving straight into this second instalment, and now I'm eagerly reading book three. I would rate Drowning at the Diner four stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐ for its entertaining narrative and strong character dynamics. It's a thrilling continuation of the Nightmare, Arizona series! Highly recommended
I loved Drowning at the Diner by Beth Dolgner! This book is a fantastic continuation of the Nightmare, Arizona series. It offers a fun, fast-paced read filled with strong, interesting characters that kept me thoroughly entertained. The narrative flows seamlessly, making it hard to put down.
One of the most exciting aspects of this instalment is the ongoing development of the protagonist's powers. As we delve deeper into the story, I eagerly await answers to questions like, "Is she a witch?" This sense of anticipation adds an intriguing layer to the plot, keeping readers engaged.
Additionally, I genuinely appreciate the themes of acceptance and tolerance woven throughout the story. The way the characters support one another creates a warm atmosphere that resonates deeply.
After finishing book one, I couldn’t resist diving straight into this second instalment, and now I'm eagerly reading book three. I would rate Drowning at the Diner four stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐ for its entertaining narrative and strong character dynamics. It's a thrilling continuation of the Nightmare, Arizona series! Highly recommended
July 2, 2023
Thank you Beth Dolgner for the ecopy, as always my reviews are my unbiased opinion.
First up I absolutely loved Book 1 and I couldn't wait to read book 2. I love Olivia and all the characters at the haunted Sanctuary.
I got so engrossed in Drowning at The Diner that I read it in one sitting. I love the cosy Paranormal mystery and I thought the murder mystery in this novel was intriguing, it was so unique that I didn't even expect it, let alone have any idea who the killer is.
As I've mentioned before with Beth Dolgner's novels, they're so easy to get engrossed in, she has a marvelous way of writing stories with rich and realistic descriptions that pull you into the story.
What I love most about these novels is that even though there's a murder to solve theres an undercurrent storyline that builds up the novel, whilst something is happening you know there's something lurking behind the scenes, which I'm dying to find out what.
I'm so pleased to learn that there's a book 3 because I need to know where Baxter is, what Damien is and Olivia... Is there more to her than she/we know?
I can't wait to read the next cosy mystery.
First up I absolutely loved Book 1 and I couldn't wait to read book 2. I love Olivia and all the characters at the haunted Sanctuary.
I got so engrossed in Drowning at The Diner that I read it in one sitting. I love the cosy Paranormal mystery and I thought the murder mystery in this novel was intriguing, it was so unique that I didn't even expect it, let alone have any idea who the killer is.
As I've mentioned before with Beth Dolgner's novels, they're so easy to get engrossed in, she has a marvelous way of writing stories with rich and realistic descriptions that pull you into the story.
What I love most about these novels is that even though there's a murder to solve theres an undercurrent storyline that builds up the novel, whilst something is happening you know there's something lurking behind the scenes, which I'm dying to find out what.
I'm so pleased to learn that there's a book 3 because I need to know where Baxter is, what Damien is and Olivia... Is there more to her than she/we know?
I can't wait to read the next cosy mystery.
April 15, 2025
Olivia hasn't been in Nightmare very long, but she's made friends and she keeps, umm, helping investigate suspicious deaths? In this case, the person of interest is one of the first people who greeted Olivia in town and, unfortunately, the evidence against Ella is pretty substantial.
Which means Olivia has her work cut out for her. Especially with everything else going on. After all, strange voices only she can hear along with a couple of new faces in town who might have a sinister agenda need to be investigated, too. PLUS, the victim has ties to the strangers and ...yeah, Olivia has a lot going on.
Anywho. Olivia's Sanctuary friends (who are turning out to be more like family than Olivia ever expected when she broke down outside of town) pull together to help Olivia clear Ella's name. Damien is unwinding (or whatever you want to call it) a little (although he's still pretty tense and/or uptight when it comes to all things Sanctuary). And Olivia might just be finding her groove in this quirky little town.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Which means Olivia has her work cut out for her. Especially with everything else going on. After all, strange voices only she can hear along with a couple of new faces in town who might have a sinister agenda need to be investigated, too. PLUS, the victim has ties to the strangers and ...yeah, Olivia has a lot going on.
Anywho. Olivia's Sanctuary friends (who are turning out to be more like family than Olivia ever expected when she broke down outside of town) pull together to help Olivia clear Ella's name. Damien is unwinding (or whatever you want to call it) a little (although he's still pretty tense and/or uptight when it comes to all things Sanctuary). And Olivia might just be finding her groove in this quirky little town.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
June 21, 2023
The second book in the Nightmare, AZ paranormal cozy mystery series that you can't put down once you begin. With Olivia opting to stay in Nightmare, and continue her working at the Sanctuary Haunted House. With new visitors coming to town, Mama tells Olivia a strange new character checked into the hotel so Olivia promises to keep an eye on things. When a second man shows up and threatens Serafina and then goes to the diner and gets abusive with Olivia's friend Ella, Olivia feels there is something going on. But when this arrogant, aggressive visitor is found dead the next day; drowned in the diner's sink, Ella becomes a suspect in his murder. So Olivia with her group of friends decide to go into investigator mode and find the murderer and clear her friend Ella's name. With so many twists and turns and red-herrings you are taken down so many paths, you are led to a surprise in the end. I love the group of characters in this series! I can't wait to see where the dynamic between Olivia and Damien leads. I received an ARC of the book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
June 28, 2025
Olivia is back on her feet and was considering continuing on to her brother’s house in California but decides that staying Nightmare with her new friends and life is the better choice. Winn, a new dishwasher at the diner has come to town and he is not making the best of impressions. He is stalking lovely Ella who is a waitress at the diner. When Winn ends up dead and Ella is the main suspect Olivia steps up to clear her name. More secrets are exposed when another newbie arrives in town. Turns out they are hunters. Olivia is drawn to the old mine when she hears a voice coming from it. She tells Damien what the voice said and he claims those are the exact words his dad used. As secrets unfold, we learn that a shapeshifter is in town causing a lot of trouble. Olivia sets a trap to catch the shapeshifter and solve the mystery. Damien is insisting that Olivia is a conjurer and urges her to practice. Damien admits that he doesn’t know what he is – his dad kept it a secret.
June 11, 2023
Olivia has decided to stay in Nightmare and continue working at the Sanctuary Haunted House. She has made friends on both paranormal and regular human planes. A new checkin at the hotel gives Mama the willies so Olivia is going to keep an eye on him. And then a different man shows up at the Sanctuary and threatens Seraphina. The next day at lunch this same man is aggressive towards her friend Ella at the Lusty Lunch Counter. The next morning he is found dead and drowned in the sink at the restaurant and Ella is accused. Too many mysterious things going on to be coincidental so Olivia goes into investigator mode with the help of her friends from work.
A well done mystery with a strong female lead and many interesting supporting characters. I look forward to more of Olivia's adventures in Nightmare.
I received an ARC copy from the author.
A well done mystery with a strong female lead and many interesting supporting characters. I look forward to more of Olivia's adventures in Nightmare.
I received an ARC copy from the author.
April 2, 2025
In a new adventure Olivia has another mystery to solve, this time a newcomer to Nightmare has been murdered and her favorite server at the diner is arrested for it. Olivia is certain that Ella is innocent, even though she is caught on video in the diner at the time of the murder. Olivia, with help from her co-workers at the Nightmare Sanctuary Haunted House, keeps investigating to try to get to the bottom of the crime. It’s hard keeping the supernatural citizens and the regular citizens and tourists separate, since they don’t know about each other, but Olivia manages to navigate both worlds. Now another group has shown up, they’re hunters who go after the supernatural, which makes it dangerous for all of Olivia’s new friends. I like this determined and gutsy heroine and plan to read more in the series soon.
July 19, 2025
In the second book in the Nightmare, Arizona series Olivia has decided to stay in Nightmare and continue working at the Nightmare Sanctuary Haunted House. Several unknown men have come to town and each seems a bit shifty. When one of the men is killed Olivia’s friend Ella is arrested for the murder. Olivia and the rest of the Sanctuary crew jump into action to clear Ella’s name. The beings at Sanctuary have become Olivia’s family and they are as protective of her as she is of them. Information is beginning to come to light about Sanctuary owner Baxter’s son Damien. A big question still remains. What exactly is Olivia? Is she a supernatural being or plain old human like she thinks? I can’t wait to find out! I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries.
I listened to the audiobook. Narrator Patrea Burchard gives a great performance.
I listened to the audiobook. Narrator Patrea Burchard gives a great performance.
September 30, 2025
2.5 stars rounding up to 3 because this is independently published
While this series has some intriguing points: what is Damien? Where is Baxter? Is Olivia supernatural? , for the most part it is rather tedious. This second book in the series was extremely repetitive and by the time I was a third finished, I was ready for it to be over.
It was obvious how the murderer was framing people from the beginning- how are all these supernaturals and hunters too dumb to figure this out?!
And Olivia is fine but also a bit clueless most of the time. The side characters are boring and completely limited to what kind of supernaturals they are with no other defining characteristics.
So, I think I will be giving up on this series unfortunately. I’m slightly interested in the overarching mystery but not enough to suffer through eight more tedious creature of the week installments.
While this series has some intriguing points: what is Damien? Where is Baxter? Is Olivia supernatural? , for the most part it is rather tedious. This second book in the series was extremely repetitive and by the time I was a third finished, I was ready for it to be over.
It was obvious how the murderer was framing people from the beginning- how are all these supernaturals and hunters too dumb to figure this out?!
And Olivia is fine but also a bit clueless most of the time. The side characters are boring and completely limited to what kind of supernaturals they are with no other defining characteristics.
So, I think I will be giving up on this series unfortunately. I’m slightly interested in the overarching mystery but not enough to suffer through eight more tedious creature of the week installments.
Read
January 18, 2024It has been a few weeks that Olivia has settled into Nightmare. We were gradually introduced further into the supernatural setup in this world. It was interesting to see how a character
Oddly I was able to guess who the killer was before Olivia herself once i knew what the killer was. I had trouble believing that
Oddly I was able to guess who the killer was before Olivia herself once i knew what the killer was. I had trouble believing that
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2024
Audiobook: I enjoyed book two of the "Nightmare, Arizona Paranormal Cozy Mysteries" series as much as the first one. Olivia Kendrick decided to stay in Nightmare, Arizona a little longer. After a friend of Olivia's was accused of murder, Olivia had to utilize her sleuthing skills to try and find the real culprit. The inhabitants of the Nightmare Sanctuary Haunted House continued to delight me with their antics. I was entertained by the questionable characters that made an appearance in the city of Nightmare. I liked the unexpected twists. Petrea Burchard's narration was entertaining, and her performance kept my attention. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review which reflected my opinions.
May 22, 2024
Again, a lovely, quick, cosy mystery to read. A continuation of the main storyline but a different mystery being solved.
Love the characters, so quirky. Like a little family.
I wish there were more character developments going on through the books though, a bit more depth with the characters. I feel like there’s so much that could be brought out about them but simply isn’t.
I’m waiting on something to click into place with Damian and Olivia, kind of wished it would’ve happened in this book but it didn’t. Again part of why I say that more could be happening with the characters.
I am enjoying the storyline though and I do want to know what happens next and what mystery comes along next 🧐😄
Love the characters, so quirky. Like a little family.
I wish there were more character developments going on through the books though, a bit more depth with the characters. I feel like there’s so much that could be brought out about them but simply isn’t.
I’m waiting on something to click into place with Damian and Olivia, kind of wished it would’ve happened in this book but it didn’t. Again part of why I say that more could be happening with the characters.
I am enjoying the storyline though and I do want to know what happens next and what mystery comes along next 🧐😄
June 18, 2024
So, I'm hooked on Olivia and the fine folks of Nightmare, Arizona. I love the way the locals and Olivia have taken to each other.
In this story, Ella, the cute young waitress at the Lusty is seen on camera going into the restaurant after hours to kill the new employee who has been hitting on her. She is jailed and confused since she knew she was innocent. Then Olivia gets arrested after being accused of attacking a man whose presence in Nightmare is suspect. She too knows she was home, asleep when the attack happened.
These are quick novels, and fun, and like I said, I really like the characters.
In this story, Ella, the cute young waitress at the Lusty is seen on camera going into the restaurant after hours to kill the new employee who has been hitting on her. She is jailed and confused since she knew she was innocent. Then Olivia gets arrested after being accused of attacking a man whose presence in Nightmare is suspect. She too knows she was home, asleep when the attack happened.
These are quick novels, and fun, and like I said, I really like the characters.
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