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Haunted Home Renovation Mystery #3
Murder on the House
Since word has spread that contractor Mel Turner can communicate with the spirits of the dead, it's been difficult to maintain a low profile. She embraces her new reputation, however, for the chance to restore an historic house in San Francisco's Castro District. The new owners, who hope to run a haunted B&B, want Mel to encourage the ghosts that supposedly roam the halls to enhance the paranormal charm.
The catch: Mel has to spend one night in the house to win the project. But during the spine-chilling sleepover, the estate gains another spectral inhabitant—when someone doesn't survive the night. And as Mel tries to coax the resident spirits into revealing the identity of the killer, she risks becoming the next casualty of this dangerous renovation.
The catch: Mel has to spend one night in the house to win the project. But during the spine-chilling sleepover, the estate gains another spectral inhabitant—when someone doesn't survive the night. And as Mel tries to coax the resident spirits into revealing the identity of the killer, she risks becoming the next casualty of this dangerous renovation.
325 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 4, 2012
128 people are currently reading
1664 people want to read
About the author
Juliet Blackwell
41 books2,911 followersJuliet Blackwell (aka Julie Goodson-Lawes, aka Hailey Lind) started out life in Palo Alto, California, born of a Texan mother and a Yankee father. The family soon moved to what were, at the time, the sticks of Cupertino, an hour south of San Francisco. Walking to and from kindergarten every day she would indulge in her earliest larcenous activity: stealing walnuts and apricots from surrounding orchards.
By the time she graduated middle school, the orchards were disappearing and the valley at the southern tip of the San Francisco Bay had become the cradle of the silicon semi-conductor. A man named Steve Jobs was working in his garage in Cupertino, just down the street. Juliet's father advised his daughters to enter the lucrative and soon-to-flourish field of computers.
"Bah" said Juliet, as she went on to major in Latin American Studies at the University of California, Santa Cruz (they had, by far, the best parties of any department). Rather than making scads of money in computers, she read, painted, learned Spanish and a little French and Vietnamese, lived in Spain and traveled through Europe, Mexico, and Central America. She had a very good time.
Juliet pursued graduate degrees in Anthropology and Social Work at the State University of New York at Albany, where she published several non-fiction articles on immigration as well as one book-length translation. Fascinated with other cultural systems, she studied the religions, folklore and medical beliefs of peoples around the world, especially in Latin America. Juliet taught the anthropology of health and health care at SUNY-Albany, and worked as an elementary school social worker in upstate New York. She also did field projects in Mexico and Cuba, studied in Spain, Italy, and France, worked on a BBC production in the Philippines, taught English as a second language in San Jose, and learned how to faux finish walls in Princeton, New Jersey. After having a son, moving back to California, and abandoning her half-written dissertation in cultural anthropology, Juliet started painting murals and portraits for a living. She has run her own mural/faux finish design studio in Oakland, across the bay from San Francisco, for more than a decade. She specializes in the aesthetic renovation of historic homes.
Finally, to round out her tour of lucrative careers, Juliet turned to writing. Under the pseudonym of Hailey Lind, Juliet penned the Art Lover's Mystery Series with her sister Carolyn, about an ex-art forger trying to go straight by working as a muralist and faux finisher in San Francisco. The first of these, Feint of Art, was nominated for an Agatha Award; Shooting Gallery and Brush with Death were both IMBA bestsellers, and Arsenic and Old Paint is now available from Perseverance Press.
Juliet's Witchcraft Mystery series, about a witch who finally finds a place to fit in when she opens a vintage clothes shop on Haight Street in San Francisco, allows Juliet to indulge yet another interest—the world of witchcraft and the supernatural. Ever since her favorite aunt taught her about reading cards and tea leaves, Juliet has been fascinated with seers, conjurers, and covens from many different cultures and historic traditions. As an anthropologist, the author studied and taught about systems of spirituality, magic, and medicine throughout the world, especially in Latin America. Halloween is by far her favorite holiday.
When not writing, painting, or haranguing her funny but cynical teenaged son, Juliet spends a lot of time restoring her happily haunted house and gardening with Oscar the cat, who ostensibly belongs to the neighbors but won't leave her alone. He started hanging around when Juliet started writing about witches...funny coincidence.
By the time she graduated middle school, the orchards were disappearing and the valley at the southern tip of the San Francisco Bay had become the cradle of the silicon semi-conductor. A man named Steve Jobs was working in his garage in Cupertino, just down the street. Juliet's father advised his daughters to enter the lucrative and soon-to-flourish field of computers.
"Bah" said Juliet, as she went on to major in Latin American Studies at the University of California, Santa Cruz (they had, by far, the best parties of any department). Rather than making scads of money in computers, she read, painted, learned Spanish and a little French and Vietnamese, lived in Spain and traveled through Europe, Mexico, and Central America. She had a very good time.
Juliet pursued graduate degrees in Anthropology and Social Work at the State University of New York at Albany, where she published several non-fiction articles on immigration as well as one book-length translation. Fascinated with other cultural systems, she studied the religions, folklore and medical beliefs of peoples around the world, especially in Latin America. Juliet taught the anthropology of health and health care at SUNY-Albany, and worked as an elementary school social worker in upstate New York. She also did field projects in Mexico and Cuba, studied in Spain, Italy, and France, worked on a BBC production in the Philippines, taught English as a second language in San Jose, and learned how to faux finish walls in Princeton, New Jersey. After having a son, moving back to California, and abandoning her half-written dissertation in cultural anthropology, Juliet started painting murals and portraits for a living. She has run her own mural/faux finish design studio in Oakland, across the bay from San Francisco, for more than a decade. She specializes in the aesthetic renovation of historic homes.
Finally, to round out her tour of lucrative careers, Juliet turned to writing. Under the pseudonym of Hailey Lind, Juliet penned the Art Lover's Mystery Series with her sister Carolyn, about an ex-art forger trying to go straight by working as a muralist and faux finisher in San Francisco. The first of these, Feint of Art, was nominated for an Agatha Award; Shooting Gallery and Brush with Death were both IMBA bestsellers, and Arsenic and Old Paint is now available from Perseverance Press.
Juliet's Witchcraft Mystery series, about a witch who finally finds a place to fit in when she opens a vintage clothes shop on Haight Street in San Francisco, allows Juliet to indulge yet another interest—the world of witchcraft and the supernatural. Ever since her favorite aunt taught her about reading cards and tea leaves, Juliet has been fascinated with seers, conjurers, and covens from many different cultures and historic traditions. As an anthropologist, the author studied and taught about systems of spirituality, magic, and medicine throughout the world, especially in Latin America. Halloween is by far her favorite holiday.
When not writing, painting, or haranguing her funny but cynical teenaged son, Juliet spends a lot of time restoring her happily haunted house and gardening with Oscar the cat, who ostensibly belongs to the neighbors but won't leave her alone. He started hanging around when Juliet started writing about witches...funny coincidence.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 239 reviews
December 12, 2023
Entertaining ghost 👻 mystery listening 🎶🔰
This is a kindle e-book novel from the local library by Juliet Blackwell book three in the series.
Mel Turner is completing for the contract to turn the old estate into a ghost 👻 haunted B&B. But the owner is murdered and the mystery begin. There are a number of suspects going back one hundred years with the death of the owner and his family together. Mel's investigation leads to several truths and the arrest of the killer.
I would recommend this series and author to 👍 readers of romantic family and friends relationships ghost 👻 adventure novels 👍🔰. 2023 👒😀😡💘🏡👻
This is a kindle e-book novel from the local library by Juliet Blackwell book three in the series.
Mel Turner is completing for the contract to turn the old estate into a ghost 👻 haunted B&B. But the owner is murdered and the mystery begin. There are a number of suspects going back one hundred years with the death of the owner and his family together. Mel's investigation leads to several truths and the arrest of the killer.
I would recommend this series and author to 👍 readers of romantic family and friends relationships ghost 👻 adventure novels 👍🔰. 2023 👒😀😡💘🏡👻
November 9, 2017
This is the third book in the haunted home renovation series. Mel Turner has an opportunity to renovte a historic home and to restore it to what it once was. All previous contractors were scared off the project because of ghostly activity. So if Mel wants the job, she and another contractorwho also wants the job have to stay in the house overnight. Whoever lasts the longest gets the job. But when their elderly host is found at the bottom of a well, Mel takes it upon herself to find out who killed their host.
I always love revisiting this series. The mystery was well done. I didn't figure out who the killer was until the end . I loved the idea of a haunted bed and breakfast. I loved the interaction between Mel and Graham. I love the characters and can't wait to read more .
I always love revisiting this series. The mystery was well done. I didn't figure out who the killer was until the end . I loved the idea of a haunted bed and breakfast. I loved the interaction between Mel and Graham. I love the characters and can't wait to read more .
September 20, 2018
Another enjoyable entry in what is now my favorite cozy mystery series. The MC is still feisty, the murders are still mostly off-screen and not very gruesome, and Dog still doesn't have a name. Plus, I like the little tidbits about historic home restoration.
I was able to figure out the mystery of the older deaths pretty easily from the clues given, but there were enough suspects for the current murder mystery for the final reveal to be satisfying. There's some light romance, and I find the whole trope of the MC obviously being far more attractive than she thinks she is annoying, but still would recommend.
The author slips in a little commentary on the role of immigrants/undocumented workers in the construction business and the challenges they face and some truly unsavory business practices they are subjected to.
Audiobook via Audible. The performance by Xe Sands really enhances this story.
I was able to figure out the mystery of the older deaths pretty easily from the clues given, but there were enough suspects for the current murder mystery for the final reveal to be satisfying. There's some light romance, and I find the whole trope of the MC obviously being far more attractive than she thinks she is annoying, but still would recommend.
The author slips in a little commentary on the role of immigrants/undocumented workers in the construction business and the challenges they face and some truly unsavory business practices they are subjected to.
Audiobook via Audible. The performance by Xe Sands really enhances this story.
July 30, 2025
4.5 🌟
Glad I finally gave this one the attention it deserved. A few things I would’ve changed but overall an enjoyable read.
Glad I finally gave this one the attention it deserved. A few things I would’ve changed but overall an enjoyable read.
April 5, 2015
By the time I finished Chapter 1, I was hooked!! I literally couldn't put this book down!! This is the 3rd book in Juliet Blackwell's Haunted Renovation series. I won't bother to repeat the blurb~~
Who couldn't love a story that has a female construction/renovation company owner who can see and talk to ghosts; who also uses power tools power tools, and is comfortable with guns. Interesting characters, a cool dog, yummy food, old haunted houses, and ghosts!! Plus a murder and a touch of romance~~ all of the above makes for a great cozy mystery!!
I started reading this book on Saturday morning and I finished it up 24 hrs later. I didn't do much anything else~~ how could I?? I was entangled in the pages!! :)
Who couldn't love a story that has a female construction/renovation company owner who can see and talk to ghosts; who also uses power tools power tools, and is comfortable with guns. Interesting characters, a cool dog, yummy food, old haunted houses, and ghosts!! Plus a murder and a touch of romance~~ all of the above makes for a great cozy mystery!!
I started reading this book on Saturday morning and I finished it up 24 hrs later. I didn't do much anything else~~ how could I?? I was entangled in the pages!! :)
May 29, 2017
In this book we find Mel Turner biding a renovation job in San Francisco Castro district. The house has a history of ghosts and the new owners plan on creating a haunted bed and breakfast establishment. Mel needed to spend a night in the house in order to win the bid. A young girl, Annabelle meets Mel as she enters the house for the first time. Mel is startled to learn that Annabelle does in the 1800's. The night, Mel and her competitor, Josh are spending the night, the owner of the house, Mrs. Bernini is found dead in a well. Mel seeking answers for death explores several avenues.
The owner of the house is in dispute. The toy room is usually locked but whenever it is open the ghosts are busy. Can ghosts hurt or kill a person? Mel needs an answer before in order to win the contract. I highly recommend this book and series.
The owner of the house is in dispute. The toy room is usually locked but whenever it is open the ghosts are busy. Can ghosts hurt or kill a person? Mel needs an answer before in order to win the contract. I highly recommend this book and series.
July 7, 2021
Mel is a female contractor who can communicate with ghosts. In this cozy mystery, she is trying to get a project to renovate a haunted home into a B&B in the San Francisco neighborhood and all she has to do is spend one night in the house.
This is a very cute series with some fantastic characters that keep showing up in each book. I find it very enjoyable!
This is a very cute series with some fantastic characters that keep showing up in each book. I find it very enjoyable!
June 8, 2019
Another fun, cozy mystery. I really like the historic & construction details which blend well with the murder mysteries, both old & new. The ghosts are there, but not relied on too much. I like that the MC is still kind of skeptical about the whole thing. She knows she can see ghosts, but doesn't put a lot of faith in either her abilities or their help. There's also a bit on illegal immigrants that I found well done.
The MC's love life is getting a bit old, but at least she kept her hands off the tools most of the time. The author does very well with the higher levels of construction, pretty poorly with the actual hands on use of tools. Some of the timing of pieces of construction are also a bit off, but not terrible.
Anyway, it's a fun read. I highly recommend reading these in order since there are recurring characters.
The MC's love life is getting a bit old, but at least she kept her hands off the tools most of the time. The author does very well with the higher levels of construction, pretty poorly with the actual hands on use of tools. Some of the timing of pieces of construction are also a bit off, but not terrible.
Anyway, it's a fun read. I highly recommend reading these in order since there are recurring characters.
January 7, 2013
MURDER ON THE HOUSE was a spooky little cozy mystery, and I loved every minute of it! Though I haven't read the first two books in this series, I was able to jump right into this one with no problems. The main character Mel and I felt like longtime friends.
Mel Turner is a contractor, specializing in the restoration of older homes in San Francisco. She can also see and sometimes communicate with ghosts that dwell in these places.
The new owners of a Victorian house want to hire Mel for both her restoration and "ghost whispering" abilities. They want Mel to convert the home into a Bed & Breakfast, but first she has to spend the night in the house to see if she's up to the challenge. But, things don't go so well. Someone ends up murdered in the house, and Mel's hoping the ghostly residents will help her figure out the culprit.
Truly I enjoyed everything about this book. It was the perfect blend of ghost story and clever mystery, with a cast of interesting and likable characters. I also loved the author's rich descriptions of the San Francisco Bay area - really drew me into the story.
I would highly recommend MURDER ON THE HOUSE to fans of paranormal cozy mysteries. 5-stars!
Review copy courtesy of the publisher.
Mel Turner is a contractor, specializing in the restoration of older homes in San Francisco. She can also see and sometimes communicate with ghosts that dwell in these places.
The new owners of a Victorian house want to hire Mel for both her restoration and "ghost whispering" abilities. They want Mel to convert the home into a Bed & Breakfast, but first she has to spend the night in the house to see if she's up to the challenge. But, things don't go so well. Someone ends up murdered in the house, and Mel's hoping the ghostly residents will help her figure out the culprit.
Truly I enjoyed everything about this book. It was the perfect blend of ghost story and clever mystery, with a cast of interesting and likable characters. I also loved the author's rich descriptions of the San Francisco Bay area - really drew me into the story.
I would highly recommend MURDER ON THE HOUSE to fans of paranormal cozy mysteries. 5-stars!
Review copy courtesy of the publisher.
July 31, 2020
3.5 but it gets bonus points for being against ICE
October 13, 2023
In order to win the bid to renovate a historic home, Mel has to first spend the night. The home is rumored to be haunted and the new owners want it to be a haunted B&B. The current owner, Betty Bernini has been allowed to live in her long time home and she has been assured she has a home until she passes.
This was pretty good. Mel meets another construction contractor- Josh Avery. Her dad happens to know his uncle and Josh has taken over once the Uncle retired. They both are present when Mrs Bernini is murdered. There is also the mystery of the original owners of the house; they were all found deceased in the same bed (mom, dad, and their 2 children- Annabell and Ezekiel).
This was a decent mystery, Mel is a bit more comfortable in her ability to see/communicate with ghosts. Her romance with Graham might be happening. Maybe. I liked Josh's introduction and how he could have been an asshole and pleasantly wasn't. Instead he is over his head and admits it; Mel offers help. I also liked the simple explanation for the deaths of the original owners.
This was pretty good. Mel meets another construction contractor- Josh Avery. Her dad happens to know his uncle and Josh has taken over once the Uncle retired. They both are present when Mrs Bernini is murdered. There is also the mystery of the original owners of the house; they were all found deceased in the same bed (mom, dad, and their 2 children- Annabell and Ezekiel).
This was a decent mystery, Mel is a bit more comfortable in her ability to see/communicate with ghosts. Her romance with Graham might be happening. Maybe. I liked Josh's introduction and how he could have been an asshole and pleasantly wasn't. Instead he is over his head and admits it; Mel offers help. I also liked the simple explanation for the deaths of the original owners.
June 9, 2021
3.5 stars. The good thing about books with ghosts is that you get multiple story lines. I enjoyed all the stories and had fun reading about this house. I enjoy the characters in this series and am looking forward to reading about Mel’s next ghost and renovation adventure.
September 11, 2013
I loooove a good paranormal mystery! Juliet Blackwell and Victoria Laurie are definitely my top favorites in that category! Although, Darynda Jones's books do get shelved there too, so hell yeah, she needs to be included there as well! But moving on...Juliet Blackwell writes two amazing paranormal mystery series; Witchcraft Mysteries & Haunted Home Renovation Mysteries. Murder on the House is her third installment in the latter.
Mel Turner is definitely not your average heroine. In fact, it's because she's your average woman, that makes her so different. Although in these paranormal mystery series, your heroine isn't a leather clad vampire would can kick ass with a katana! (As my last read had!) Mel is your thirty-something-year-old divorcee, running her father's home renovation business that truly is a family business. But lately, the places she goes to renovate and restore to their historical glory have been otherwise occupied by ghosts! And if that weren't enough, a murder usually happens soon after.
It's like Murder She Wrote all over again, no matter what house or building Mel is determined to restore, a murder happens. It's even mentioned by the leading investigator in this one! Kind of funny, but nice that it's acknowledged, even with Mel herself.
In this one, a couple is determined to turn a house into a haunted B&B. Although, there are many complications. Past construction workers have run out on the job because the house is haunted, ghostly children frightening them off. Yup, children ghosts, freaky, right? And it's the playroom in particular that gets the most ghostly occurrences--come and play with us. (Hee-hee, couldn't resist!)
The soon-to-be owners, for it's not quite official yet, have a stipulation, Mel and the competition from another renovators company have to spend one night in the haunted house. Whoever lasts the longest gets to be the company to restore the house--although it makes you wonder what would happen if they both lasted? Unfortunately, there's no need for that question, because the legal owner of the house, a little old lady, is found dead at the bottom of a well that same night.
Now Mel is determined to figure out who done it. There are too many questions that she can't quite answer. Could it be the ghosts? Can ghosts kill people? She's not quite sure of that herself, but it's clear that somebody was there that night and did the poor old woman harm.
To make matters even more difficult, it seems Mrs. Bernini, the woman who was the true owner of the house, promised the house and all its property to quite a few people. Which means, there are quite a few possible suspects to the murder. And honestly, it was quite the challenge to figure out who-done-it. I had an inkly of a suspicion, but didn't really consider him to be the murderer in truth. Turns out I was right on that matter, but I still never pegged the real murderer down.
This was a highly enjoyable read! What one calls a "cozy mystery" and it's definitely a fun read! There's still some romance going on as well, for Mel has caught the eye of Graham, the "green" construction consultant. And then there's Zach, a man who is definitely her junior in years, but there's not a real spark between them. Just flirty moments. Plus, Zach did kidnap her...and then there's Graham. A man who is quite more like Mel herself than she realizes. I like that the romance just happens in spurts and doesn't take central focus of Mel's life, but Graham is definitely integrating himself into her life now, whether she's ready or not!
If you're a paranormal fan and are looking for a good mystery with just a hint of romance, then this is definitely a series for you! I'd recommend this really to any paranormal mystery fan!
Overall Rating 5/5 stars
Mel Turner is definitely not your average heroine. In fact, it's because she's your average woman, that makes her so different. Although in these paranormal mystery series, your heroine isn't a leather clad vampire would can kick ass with a katana! (As my last read had!) Mel is your thirty-something-year-old divorcee, running her father's home renovation business that truly is a family business. But lately, the places she goes to renovate and restore to their historical glory have been otherwise occupied by ghosts! And if that weren't enough, a murder usually happens soon after.
It's like Murder She Wrote all over again, no matter what house or building Mel is determined to restore, a murder happens. It's even mentioned by the leading investigator in this one! Kind of funny, but nice that it's acknowledged, even with Mel herself.
In this one, a couple is determined to turn a house into a haunted B&B. Although, there are many complications. Past construction workers have run out on the job because the house is haunted, ghostly children frightening them off. Yup, children ghosts, freaky, right? And it's the playroom in particular that gets the most ghostly occurrences--come and play with us. (Hee-hee, couldn't resist!)
The soon-to-be owners, for it's not quite official yet, have a stipulation, Mel and the competition from another renovators company have to spend one night in the haunted house. Whoever lasts the longest gets to be the company to restore the house--although it makes you wonder what would happen if they both lasted? Unfortunately, there's no need for that question, because the legal owner of the house, a little old lady, is found dead at the bottom of a well that same night.
Now Mel is determined to figure out who done it. There are too many questions that she can't quite answer. Could it be the ghosts? Can ghosts kill people? She's not quite sure of that herself, but it's clear that somebody was there that night and did the poor old woman harm.
To make matters even more difficult, it seems Mrs. Bernini, the woman who was the true owner of the house, promised the house and all its property to quite a few people. Which means, there are quite a few possible suspects to the murder. And honestly, it was quite the challenge to figure out who-done-it. I had an inkly of a suspicion, but didn't really consider him to be the murderer in truth. Turns out I was right on that matter, but I still never pegged the real murderer down.
This was a highly enjoyable read! What one calls a "cozy mystery" and it's definitely a fun read! There's still some romance going on as well, for Mel has caught the eye of Graham, the "green" construction consultant. And then there's Zach, a man who is definitely her junior in years, but there's not a real spark between them. Just flirty moments. Plus, Zach did kidnap her...and then there's Graham. A man who is quite more like Mel herself than she realizes. I like that the romance just happens in spurts and doesn't take central focus of Mel's life, but Graham is definitely integrating himself into her life now, whether she's ready or not!
If you're a paranormal fan and are looking for a good mystery with just a hint of romance, then this is definitely a series for you! I'd recommend this really to any paranormal mystery fan!
Overall Rating 5/5 stars
January 16, 2016
Bed-and-breakfast—with a side of ghosts.
Mel Turner has a way with ghosts and people are starting to talk. So much so that the new owners of a historic house have contacted her not only to restore the house but to use her abilities to encourage the ghosts thought to be there to roam about. They want to open a haunted Bed & Breakfast.
In order to win the contact she must stay overnight in the house with another prospective contractor and the elderly caretaker, who also is the previous owner. The sleepover comes to an abrupt halt when the estate gains another supernatural occupant. Someone didn’t make it through the night. Mel hopes that she can get the resident spirits help her find the killer before she becomes another victim and joins them in their ghostly world .
Dollycas’s Thoughts
These stories first drew me in because of my house construction background but now in addition to that it is the history woven into the story. Juliet Blackwell blends the history with the mystery to give us readers an excellent read. That the house the story is based on could actually have been haunted just added to the story. I could hear the creaks and the groans and the marbles bouncing down the stairs – sent shivers up my spine.
Mel is a spunky protagonist and seems to have no fear most of the time but even this set of ghosts took their toll on her. Her life is not turning out the way she planned. She wanted to take off for Paris but her dad needed her so she came home. She enjoys restoring homes but there are days she wishes for Paris, but I think the trouble who just follow her there. Her gift now realizes would sneak up on her wherever she goes. I am glad she is sticking around San Francisco and the construction biz. Who knows who she will have haunting her during her next renovation?
Murder on the House is a smart and clever mystery all cozy lovers will enjoy!!
Mel Turner has a way with ghosts and people are starting to talk. So much so that the new owners of a historic house have contacted her not only to restore the house but to use her abilities to encourage the ghosts thought to be there to roam about. They want to open a haunted Bed & Breakfast.
In order to win the contact she must stay overnight in the house with another prospective contractor and the elderly caretaker, who also is the previous owner. The sleepover comes to an abrupt halt when the estate gains another supernatural occupant. Someone didn’t make it through the night. Mel hopes that she can get the resident spirits help her find the killer before she becomes another victim and joins them in their ghostly world .
Dollycas’s Thoughts
These stories first drew me in because of my house construction background but now in addition to that it is the history woven into the story. Juliet Blackwell blends the history with the mystery to give us readers an excellent read. That the house the story is based on could actually have been haunted just added to the story. I could hear the creaks and the groans and the marbles bouncing down the stairs – sent shivers up my spine.
Mel is a spunky protagonist and seems to have no fear most of the time but even this set of ghosts took their toll on her. Her life is not turning out the way she planned. She wanted to take off for Paris but her dad needed her so she came home. She enjoys restoring homes but there are days she wishes for Paris, but I think the trouble who just follow her there. Her gift now realizes would sneak up on her wherever she goes. I am glad she is sticking around San Francisco and the construction biz. Who knows who she will have haunting her during her next renovation?
Murder on the House is a smart and clever mystery all cozy lovers will enjoy!!
October 12, 2021
Mel Turner might have found the renovation of her dreams. A beautiful historic home in the Castro district that would have a good chance of winning a prestigious award if it was brought back to its former glory. The supposed new owners want to open the house as a functioning inn. Mel is one of the contractors called in to make a bid for the construction. The only catch is that the house is supposedly haunted and the residents have noticed quite a bit of paranormal activity. It has scared off other crews in the past, so the new bidders have to spend one whole night in the house in order to win the job. On their overnight stay, Mel and her friends immediately encounter some ghosts and unfortunately the dead body of one of their hosts. And so the mystery begins.
I really enjoy this series and this was a wonderful addition. I immediately got sucked into the story from the very first chapter. I love the San Francisco setting, the idea of an old haunted house, and the ghost encounters! The mystery was well paced and pretty captivating. There were plenty of suspects and I didn't figure it out until Mel did at the end. The cast of characters seem real and likable. I loved the scenes between Mel, Stephen and Luz. That trio cracks me up and feels like a true friendship. The ghost story was really good! I figured out what happened to them, but still loved reading about their interactions and hauntings. I'm glad that Graham is sticking around and that he finally told Mel that not everyone has to remain bitter after a divorce. Hoping that helps her open up more. I'll definitley be looking forward to reading the next book in this fun series.
I really enjoy this series and this was a wonderful addition. I immediately got sucked into the story from the very first chapter. I love the San Francisco setting, the idea of an old haunted house, and the ghost encounters! The mystery was well paced and pretty captivating. There were plenty of suspects and I didn't figure it out until Mel did at the end. The cast of characters seem real and likable. I loved the scenes between Mel, Stephen and Luz. That trio cracks me up and feels like a true friendship. The ghost story was really good! I figured out what happened to them, but still loved reading about their interactions and hauntings. I'm glad that Graham is sticking around and that he finally told Mel that not everyone has to remain bitter after a divorce. Hoping that helps her open up more. I'll definitley be looking forward to reading the next book in this fun series.
January 21, 2015
Murder on the House is the third book in the Haunted Home Renovation Series. The series takes place in San Francisco. Mel Turner has taken over her father's business as he recovers from the death of his wife. Mel desire to flee to Paris, find a small room and just be alone is again on hold. She is living with her dad, Stan (dad's friend) and dog. One can feel the love when the group sits around the table eating her dad's meals. Her dad loves to cook and anyone that shows up at the house is invited to eat with the family.
I am not going to do a synopsis of the plot as many reviews have already done so. What I liked about this book are the characters. Mel is funny, spunky and humorous. She is divorced and cares greatly for her step son. She also cares greatly about old historic home and the proper restoration of them. It was interesting to me as reader and it did not overwhelm with technical information.
Mel's friends are varied and really a lot of fun. Her family situation is full of love and brings a cozy feel to this light paranormal book. The ghosts in each book that Mel comes in contact with are different personalities. She is still learning about her ability to see and talk to them.
The first part of the book took off and really had my interest. I was chuckling aloud at the antics of Mel and her friends at their overnight stay at the Bernini house. I felt the book slowed down some in the middle of the book and the ending did have a rushed feel to me. However, I do really like this series due to the characters and the content. I am looking forward to the next book as I enjoy the writing of Juliet Blackwell
I am not going to do a synopsis of the plot as many reviews have already done so. What I liked about this book are the characters. Mel is funny, spunky and humorous. She is divorced and cares greatly for her step son. She also cares greatly about old historic home and the proper restoration of them. It was interesting to me as reader and it did not overwhelm with technical information.
Mel's friends are varied and really a lot of fun. Her family situation is full of love and brings a cozy feel to this light paranormal book. The ghosts in each book that Mel comes in contact with are different personalities. She is still learning about her ability to see and talk to them.
The first part of the book took off and really had my interest. I was chuckling aloud at the antics of Mel and her friends at their overnight stay at the Bernini house. I felt the book slowed down some in the middle of the book and the ending did have a rushed feel to me. However, I do really like this series due to the characters and the content. I am looking forward to the next book as I enjoy the writing of Juliet Blackwell
April 1, 2023
The first hundred pages or so of this book are pure fun. After that it slows down a little, though it never really drags. The author seems to wrap things up rather abruptly at the end, and I felt like one of the characters seemed to have had a personality transplant. But all in all, I enjoyed the book and look forward to the next one, due out in July.
December 12, 2012
A good ghost story than built suspense right up to the somewhat disappointing climax. I'm not sure what happened but the ending seemed rushed and a bit flat. A solid ending would have easily netted this book 4 stars but lacking that I am going with 3.
June 20, 2015
Pretty much on par with this series as a whole. Nothing special in and of its self, but for some reason, that I can't quite put my finger on, I always enjoy this author.
January 12, 2022
Why are children ghost so creepy? I think this book creepied me out the most just because of children ghost. Still loved it
July 4, 2018
What can I say. Another cozy mystery enjoyed till the end. This series is indeed cozy.
September 5, 2014
I crave paranormal mysteries in modern, adult literature and realistic heroines of a young, vibrant forty. Even more so than in the previous novel, "Murder On The House" fixes the right atmosphere for old era ghosts. It doesn’t have the deranged quality we saw last. Better: we are treated to a classic haunting; a dose of paranormal activity revved up to a notch that Juliet Blackwell hasn’t attempted before! Her boutique witch series is highly mystical but its entities tend to be gargoyles or demons; angles I dislike. This home renovation project thrusts such direct spiritual encounters onto the pages, Mel Turner’s newfound perception isn’t required! Other than seeing and hearing an inhabitant from the past; the trademark atmosphere, like inexplicably locked doors and toys tumbling down a staircase, are in clear evidence to Mel’s friends.
She and another firm are invited as overnight guests, in a peculiar competition for this lucrative job. Modern elements contribute to this mystery a great deal. The other general contractor vanishes, during a sad murder that stretches the arm of culpability to additional parties. His uncle is odd - founder of their company, the estate gardener is odd and has long been coasting on favours. But present day crime tends to be of least interest to me. What absorbed me is the mystery of the original inhabitants. A whole family died and there was a feud with a neighbouring manor, regarding water rights.
Juliet has become one of my favourite living authors and got an easy five stars out of me. I’m beseeching authors until a change is evident: ethereal, non-vampire literature for adults is too scarce. The authors providing it, spoil the effect by turning to comedy. This time, surroundings are charged with a freaky electricity that makes us shudder and danger too!
She and another firm are invited as overnight guests, in a peculiar competition for this lucrative job. Modern elements contribute to this mystery a great deal. The other general contractor vanishes, during a sad murder that stretches the arm of culpability to additional parties. His uncle is odd - founder of their company, the estate gardener is odd and has long been coasting on favours. But present day crime tends to be of least interest to me. What absorbed me is the mystery of the original inhabitants. A whole family died and there was a feud with a neighbouring manor, regarding water rights.
Juliet has become one of my favourite living authors and got an easy five stars out of me. I’m beseeching authors until a change is evident: ethereal, non-vampire literature for adults is too scarce. The authors providing it, spoil the effect by turning to comedy. This time, surroundings are charged with a freaky electricity that makes us shudder and danger too!
June 25, 2021
When it comes to Cozy Mysteries, my number one favorite genre, or sub-genre, as the case may be, is Witchy-themed Cozy Mysteries. I also love any Cozy Mysteries that prominently feature bookstores, cafes, cats and anything Metaphysical, such as Victoria Laurie's "Psychic Eye Mysteries."
However, although ghost-themed Cozy Mysteries are not necessarily my least favorite, they are my least-read.
Which is why I AM surprised, at least slightly, at how enamored I have become over Ms. Blackwell's "Haunted Home Renovation Mysteries." Then again, I devour Ms. Blackwell's "Witchcraft Mystery Series," or as I love to call it, "The Chronicles of Lily Ivory."
"Murder on the House," by Juliet Blackwell is the third in the "Haunted Home Renovation Mysteries," and like the two that came before it, not a lick of disappointment can be found. Mel Turner, our Leading Lady in this Cozy Mystery Series, has been sought out, not so much because she owns/manages/runs Turner Construction, but because she has ghost-busting capabilities.
When a small group of people inform Mel that they want to take their haunted house and turn it into a Haunted B & B (short for Bed and Breakfast), she is a bit flabbergasted. When she discovers that she must spend the night, she is not only flabbergasted, but a tad taken aback, and then the hijinks begin.
And, as Dr. River Song would say, "No spoilers!" So I shall leave it there.
Feel free to visit Ms. Blackwell's Website at:
https://julietblackwell.net/mysteries...
In case you are wondering, I expect to begin reading "Home for the Haunting," fourth in this series, within the next day or two.
However, although ghost-themed Cozy Mysteries are not necessarily my least favorite, they are my least-read.
Which is why I AM surprised, at least slightly, at how enamored I have become over Ms. Blackwell's "Haunted Home Renovation Mysteries." Then again, I devour Ms. Blackwell's "Witchcraft Mystery Series," or as I love to call it, "The Chronicles of Lily Ivory."
"Murder on the House," by Juliet Blackwell is the third in the "Haunted Home Renovation Mysteries," and like the two that came before it, not a lick of disappointment can be found. Mel Turner, our Leading Lady in this Cozy Mystery Series, has been sought out, not so much because she owns/manages/runs Turner Construction, but because she has ghost-busting capabilities.
When a small group of people inform Mel that they want to take their haunted house and turn it into a Haunted B & B (short for Bed and Breakfast), she is a bit flabbergasted. When she discovers that she must spend the night, she is not only flabbergasted, but a tad taken aback, and then the hijinks begin.
And, as Dr. River Song would say, "No spoilers!" So I shall leave it there.
Feel free to visit Ms. Blackwell's Website at:
https://julietblackwell.net/mysteries...
In case you are wondering, I expect to begin reading "Home for the Haunting," fourth in this series, within the next day or two.
March 25, 2016
An engaging cozy mystery, even though the victim is more sympathetic than is usual in the cozies, and many of the suspects are pretty dubious; for me, the mystery solution was not especially satisfying.
Still, it's got some interesting historical tidbits, and the secondary characters, especially the recurring ones, are well-drawn and fun to get to know better.
Still, in the end a lot more questions remained unanswered than were resolved. Partly that's because Mel, our first-person protagonist, is making some difficult decisions about the path her life will take- but partly it's also because various situations, especially regarding the various suspects- remained unresolved by the quick and neat ending.
You could probably start here in the series without missing much, except I think the 2 previous books were tighter than this one.
Recommended for cozy mystery fans who don't mind a touch of the paranormal.
Still, it's got some interesting historical tidbits, and the secondary characters, especially the recurring ones, are well-drawn and fun to get to know better.
Still, in the end a lot more questions remained unanswered than were resolved. Partly that's because Mel, our first-person protagonist, is making some difficult decisions about the path her life will take- but partly it's also because various situations, especially regarding the various suspects- remained unresolved by the quick and neat ending.
You could probably start here in the series without missing much, except I think the 2 previous books were tighter than this one.
Recommended for cozy mystery fans who don't mind a touch of the paranormal.
May 28, 2020
Mel the anthropologist/general contractor/lover of all things old house is slowly edging into some kind of comfort level with her ability to see and communicate with ghosts. And that is one thread in the story. Another is her relationship with a man she is attracted to, and yet another is with her ex-stepson and his father. Besides interacting with the owners of the house she is helping to bring into code for a Bed And Breakfast she is becoming friends with the little girl who has lived there since before her death in 1912. And then there is the current murder to be investigated and all the copies of the will to be found. Great story!
Xe Sands has great skills in interpreting the characters as their narrator.
Xe Sands has great skills in interpreting the characters as their narrator.
April 16, 2013
I think this series is taking a new direction, sort of a cross between Ghost Hunters/This Old House, and I'm looking forward to continuing on with it.
Once again, the description of San Francisco's wonderful architecture and what the character needs to do to maintain the integrity, is compelling. The ghostly visitors and events were described in such a way as it made me wonder if they were 'good' ghosts, or 'evil' ones. Plus, I sometimes wondered if the real people were alive, or if they were ghosts, too, such was the way the author wrote the characters. Kept me guessing!
Loved it.
Once again, the description of San Francisco's wonderful architecture and what the character needs to do to maintain the integrity, is compelling. The ghostly visitors and events were described in such a way as it made me wonder if they were 'good' ghosts, or 'evil' ones. Plus, I sometimes wondered if the real people were alive, or if they were ghosts, too, such was the way the author wrote the characters. Kept me guessing!
Loved it.
May 22, 2018
A weak spot in the series. Not a lot of ghost interaction or any other sort of plot development, for that matter. There is plenty to get us to dislike the ex and his new wife, but the absentee mom of Mel's former stepson always gets a pass. The frequent mentions of Mel's desire to move to Paris and write doesn't sound true to character and is probably just the author projecting a little too much of herself into the book.
December 4, 2012
Murder on the House is the third installment in the Haunted Home Renovation Mystery series. This series just keeps getting better and better! This is a wonderful paranormal mystery series by writer Juliet Blackwell. Her writing is impeccable, the story fun and utterly readable. Don't miss this one!
October 17, 2025
A Step Up in Storytelling, but Still Haunted by Stereotypes
The third book in Juliet Blackwell’s Haunted Home Renovation series, Murder on the House, the author is known for spooky charm and ghostly intrigue. The pacing felt tighter and the story flowed better than the second book and I appreciated that the mystery itself was more cohesive this time around. The supernatural details were vivid, the haunted house setting was atmospheric, and overall, the plot held my attention more consistently.
However, the ongoing issue that continues to surface throughout the series: the depiction of Hispanic and immigrant characters in less than favorable light. Once again, most of the Hispanic characters are portrayed as low-income, non-English speakers, and the narrative sometimes leans on their immigration status or fear of the police as a plot device. That kind of representation is frustrating and, frankly, harmful. It reinforces tired stereotypes rather than broadening the types of characters Hispanic people portray.
There’s a difference between writing a diverse community and writing with depth and respect for that community. Even her bestie a Latina has surface level depth and only exists yo hear the WFL drone on about her problems. I believe Blackwell’s intent is to honor the cultural richness of her city, but the execution misses the mark for me. A character can be bilingual or work in a trade without being written as “less than.” These nuances matter, especially in a city built on the contributions of multicultural, working-class families.
I’m still committed to finishing the series because I enjoy the ghostly mystery, but my hopes future books showing a little more awareness are all but lost at this point. We need more authors who build fully functional characters with thoughts, feelings, and emotions outside of their white counterparts, they don’t have to be the punchy side kick or the inconsequential characters who portray a less than version of a vibrant community. I need compassion in how my communities of color are portrayed.
The third book in Juliet Blackwell’s Haunted Home Renovation series, Murder on the House, the author is known for spooky charm and ghostly intrigue. The pacing felt tighter and the story flowed better than the second book and I appreciated that the mystery itself was more cohesive this time around. The supernatural details were vivid, the haunted house setting was atmospheric, and overall, the plot held my attention more consistently.
However, the ongoing issue that continues to surface throughout the series: the depiction of Hispanic and immigrant characters in less than favorable light. Once again, most of the Hispanic characters are portrayed as low-income, non-English speakers, and the narrative sometimes leans on their immigration status or fear of the police as a plot device. That kind of representation is frustrating and, frankly, harmful. It reinforces tired stereotypes rather than broadening the types of characters Hispanic people portray.
There’s a difference between writing a diverse community and writing with depth and respect for that community. Even her bestie a Latina has surface level depth and only exists yo hear the WFL drone on about her problems. I believe Blackwell’s intent is to honor the cultural richness of her city, but the execution misses the mark for me. A character can be bilingual or work in a trade without being written as “less than.” These nuances matter, especially in a city built on the contributions of multicultural, working-class families.
I’m still committed to finishing the series because I enjoy the ghostly mystery, but my hopes future books showing a little more awareness are all but lost at this point. We need more authors who build fully functional characters with thoughts, feelings, and emotions outside of their white counterparts, they don’t have to be the punchy side kick or the inconsequential characters who portray a less than version of a vibrant community. I need compassion in how my communities of color are portrayed.
January 28, 2025
Ahoy there me mateys! I am in one of those weird reading periods where I am having trouble finding something to fit my mood. I was scrolling through Audible Plus when I found a novel called "Dead Bolt." That was a silly name so I randomly clicked on it. It follows Mel Turner, a contractor, who restores historic homes in San Francisco and finds out she can see ghosts. Can she solve the murders and still get the projects done in time? I wanted to find out.
I enjoy other people's home renovation projects - especially the historical ones. I am a nerd for rediscovered fireplaces and original lighting fixtures.
Mel is getting a reputation on working on haunted houses. She is also getting more comfortable with her ghostly encounters. Her skills bring her to a new possible project - a haunted B&B. The owners want to keep the ghosts. The catch? To win the contract, Mel must stay the night in the house. But there is competition and whoever stays the longest wins. Mel thinks she is ready to handle this house and its child ghost. Of course someone is murdered that night.
This was the best yet. I loved the silly competition. I loved that marbles are creepy. I loved how the sale of the house was contingent on the owner's living there and all the consequences of that. I even love the police captain.
Both the mystery of the ghosts and the modern day murder were easily solvable to me but again I had a fabulous time with this one. Arrrr!
I enjoy other people's home renovation projects - especially the historical ones. I am a nerd for rediscovered fireplaces and original lighting fixtures.
Mel is getting a reputation on working on haunted houses. She is also getting more comfortable with her ghostly encounters. Her skills bring her to a new possible project - a haunted B&B. The owners want to keep the ghosts. The catch? To win the contract, Mel must stay the night in the house. But there is competition and whoever stays the longest wins. Mel thinks she is ready to handle this house and its child ghost. Of course someone is murdered that night.
This was the best yet. I loved the silly competition. I loved that marbles are creepy. I loved how the sale of the house was contingent on the owner's living there and all the consequences of that. I even love the police captain.
Both the mystery of the ghosts and the modern day murder were easily solvable to me but again I had a fabulous time with this one. Arrrr!
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