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The Sarah Milton Chronicles
Reading The Dead
Note: Original cover edition for ASIN# B00BGE5DEM
The first book of an exciting paranormal detective comedy/thriller series!
While investigating the brutal murders committed by a mysterious serial killer known only as "Raithe," bookish LAPD Detective Sarah Milton is unprepared to have her entire world turned upside down. Innate powers to see the dead, lying dormant since her mother's murder, have reawakened in her after a near-fatal shooting. Along for the ride is Sarah's irrepressible thirteen-year-old childhood "imaginary friend," Anna Nigma, a most atypical poltergeist. Amid fears for her sanity, Sarah must come to grips with the realization that her reality is now a mix of the natural and supernatural, where powerful, ancient mystic symbols can grant amazing powers over life and death, and paranormal influence extends even into her current murder investigation. Forced to hide her abilities from everyone, Sarah, aided by her spectral friend, has no choice but to bring Raithe to justice on her own, before the sinister forces behind his murder spree claim yet another victim.
The first book of an exciting paranormal detective comedy/thriller series!
While investigating the brutal murders committed by a mysterious serial killer known only as "Raithe," bookish LAPD Detective Sarah Milton is unprepared to have her entire world turned upside down. Innate powers to see the dead, lying dormant since her mother's murder, have reawakened in her after a near-fatal shooting. Along for the ride is Sarah's irrepressible thirteen-year-old childhood "imaginary friend," Anna Nigma, a most atypical poltergeist. Amid fears for her sanity, Sarah must come to grips with the realization that her reality is now a mix of the natural and supernatural, where powerful, ancient mystic symbols can grant amazing powers over life and death, and paranormal influence extends even into her current murder investigation. Forced to hide her abilities from everyone, Sarah, aided by her spectral friend, has no choice but to bring Raithe to justice on her own, before the sinister forces behind his murder spree claim yet another victim.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 14, 2013
6 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
About the author
J.B. Cameron
11 books30 followersThis author also writes under the pen name Cameron Jon Bernhard.
Author of the paranormal detective comedy/thriller series "Reading The Dead - The Sarah Milton Chronicles" and the urban fantasy novella "Magpie & Jynx", J.B. Cameron hails from New Brunswick, Canada. His vivid adventure tales typically place fun, believable characters in situations of suspense or urban horror, making for an exciting roller coaster ride to both chill and amuse his readers.
Author of the paranormal detective comedy/thriller series "Reading The Dead - The Sarah Milton Chronicles" and the urban fantasy novella "Magpie & Jynx", J.B. Cameron hails from New Brunswick, Canada. His vivid adventure tales typically place fun, believable characters in situations of suspense or urban horror, making for an exciting roller coaster ride to both chill and amuse his readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
August 5, 2013
4 Stars!
This book was kindly provided by the author for an honest review.
Sarah has always been a little different. When she was a child, other people were afraid of her, and considered her crazy because she talked to herself. But of course, Sarah is not crazy. She can just see ghosts - especially one ghost in particular, Anna. Many years later, Sarah is a detective, investigating terrible murders committed by a serial killer with no pattern.
This book was engaging and Sarah, while bookish - is never boring. If you like crime novels with strong female protagonists, you'll probably enjoy this series.
This book was kindly provided by the author for an honest review.
Sarah has always been a little different. When she was a child, other people were afraid of her, and considered her crazy because she talked to herself. But of course, Sarah is not crazy. She can just see ghosts - especially one ghost in particular, Anna. Many years later, Sarah is a detective, investigating terrible murders committed by a serial killer with no pattern.
This book was engaging and Sarah, while bookish - is never boring. If you like crime novels with strong female protagonists, you'll probably enjoy this series.
July 18, 2014
I received a free copy of this book from the Goodreads Group Lovers of the Paranormal in exchange for an honest review.
Overall, I really thought this book was great and immediately after I finished it, I started reading the next in the series – which is always a good indication of my level of enjoyment.
Sarah Milton has the ability to see and communicate with ghosts. When she was a child, she had a ghost friend who she named Anna Enigma. Of course, others thought this was an imaginary friend. Growing up, she was an outcast and people thought she was crazy because that thought that she talked to herself. When Sarah was in her teens, her mother was murdered and Anna Enigma disappeared - just when Sarah needed her the most. The murder wasn’t solved.
Now, Sarah holds a doctorate in criminal psychology and is a detective with the Los Angeles Police Department's Violent Crimes Unit. Sarah and her unit are hunting down a psychopathic killer. During this time, Sarah has a life-altering incident with the result being that she can see and communicate with Anna Enigma again (as well as other ghosts). Anna turns out to be a pivotal member of the Violent Crimes team in tracking down and capturing the killer. Of course, Sarah has to figure out a way to explain what she knows to her coworkers.
This is one of those books that I just couldn’t put down. The last part is action packed and full of suspense. I love a great paranormal story and I love a great mystery story. When they are combined together in such a great way, well I am now a devoted fan. On top of that, the characters in the story are great, even with their flaws. This includes Sarah’s fellow police officers and friends. There is a lot of humor in this book, which just makes it even better.
The author has a wonderful way with words and I found myself highlighting a number of great lines, including: “It came as a relief to know that I didn’t need a doctor – an exorcist, perhaps, but not a medical practitioner.”
Sarah is a strong heroine and Anna Enigma is a great character. When they first met, Sarah was younger than Anna, but now Sarah is an adult and Anna will always be a twelve or thirteen year old ghost. This makes for an interesting dynamic in their relationship.
There were a couple of occasions where things were just a bit too obvious. Also, sometimes a thought or information was communicated twice in the matter of a couple of pages. These are my only minor criticisms.
The story is engaging and well written, especially for a "new" novelist. If you like mysteries, humor, and paranormal elements, I highly recommend this series.
Overall, I really thought this book was great and immediately after I finished it, I started reading the next in the series – which is always a good indication of my level of enjoyment.
Sarah Milton has the ability to see and communicate with ghosts. When she was a child, she had a ghost friend who she named Anna Enigma. Of course, others thought this was an imaginary friend. Growing up, she was an outcast and people thought she was crazy because that thought that she talked to herself. When Sarah was in her teens, her mother was murdered and Anna Enigma disappeared - just when Sarah needed her the most. The murder wasn’t solved.
Now, Sarah holds a doctorate in criminal psychology and is a detective with the Los Angeles Police Department's Violent Crimes Unit. Sarah and her unit are hunting down a psychopathic killer. During this time, Sarah has a life-altering incident with the result being that she can see and communicate with Anna Enigma again (as well as other ghosts). Anna turns out to be a pivotal member of the Violent Crimes team in tracking down and capturing the killer. Of course, Sarah has to figure out a way to explain what she knows to her coworkers.
This is one of those books that I just couldn’t put down. The last part is action packed and full of suspense. I love a great paranormal story and I love a great mystery story. When they are combined together in such a great way, well I am now a devoted fan. On top of that, the characters in the story are great, even with their flaws. This includes Sarah’s fellow police officers and friends. There is a lot of humor in this book, which just makes it even better.
The author has a wonderful way with words and I found myself highlighting a number of great lines, including: “It came as a relief to know that I didn’t need a doctor – an exorcist, perhaps, but not a medical practitioner.”
Sarah is a strong heroine and Anna Enigma is a great character. When they first met, Sarah was younger than Anna, but now Sarah is an adult and Anna will always be a twelve or thirteen year old ghost. This makes for an interesting dynamic in their relationship.
There were a couple of occasions where things were just a bit too obvious. Also, sometimes a thought or information was communicated twice in the matter of a couple of pages. These are my only minor criticisms.
The story is engaging and well written, especially for a "new" novelist. If you like mysteries, humor, and paranormal elements, I highly recommend this series.
March 14, 2014
Reading the Dead – the Sarah Milton Chronicles
Sarah Milton is special. Oh, she wouldn’t agree that she was special – she is more inclined to believe that she is just an oddball who grew up with an invisible friend as a child. An invisible friend who disappeared when Sarah’s mother was murdered, when Sarah needed her the most. Lonely and heartbroken, Sarah disappears into her books, and her obsession over her mother’s murder.
Now grown, Sarah is a police officer in Los Angeles, assigned to the Violent Crimes Unit. Well educated and intelligent, Sarah is an up and coming star of the division, tracking and bringing down a psychopathic serial killer on her first case. Now, another killer is out there, and Sarah is right in the middle of it. But before she can truly get started, something happens that changes Sarah’s life forever.
Bosco, Sarah’s hyperactive Yorki best buddy is out of kibble, so she stops at the minimart – and walks straight into a robbery. A robbery that gains her a bullet in the chest, and a trip to the land of the dead. Brought back, the first ‘person’ she sees is Anna Nigma, her long lost invisible friend.
J.B. Cameron has written a seriously good story. This is a paranormal story, filled with ghosts and things that go bump in the night. It is exceptional as a paranormal, with solid writing and a well-written story line. But it is more than that. It is a great suspense story, with thrills, chills, and exceptional mystery and police procedure. With ghosts and invisible people leading the way, how does a detective explain how she knows what she knows? And how does she stop it when the story is more than ever expected?
This is exceptional writing for a “new” author. I will be purchasing the next books, and I have no doubt that I will greatly enjoy them.
I am acquainted with Cameron through Goodreads.com, however, I purchased the book on my own and have not received payment for the purchase in any manner. All opinions are my own.
Sarah Milton is special. Oh, she wouldn’t agree that she was special – she is more inclined to believe that she is just an oddball who grew up with an invisible friend as a child. An invisible friend who disappeared when Sarah’s mother was murdered, when Sarah needed her the most. Lonely and heartbroken, Sarah disappears into her books, and her obsession over her mother’s murder.
Now grown, Sarah is a police officer in Los Angeles, assigned to the Violent Crimes Unit. Well educated and intelligent, Sarah is an up and coming star of the division, tracking and bringing down a psychopathic serial killer on her first case. Now, another killer is out there, and Sarah is right in the middle of it. But before she can truly get started, something happens that changes Sarah’s life forever.
Bosco, Sarah’s hyperactive Yorki best buddy is out of kibble, so she stops at the minimart – and walks straight into a robbery. A robbery that gains her a bullet in the chest, and a trip to the land of the dead. Brought back, the first ‘person’ she sees is Anna Nigma, her long lost invisible friend.
J.B. Cameron has written a seriously good story. This is a paranormal story, filled with ghosts and things that go bump in the night. It is exceptional as a paranormal, with solid writing and a well-written story line. But it is more than that. It is a great suspense story, with thrills, chills, and exceptional mystery and police procedure. With ghosts and invisible people leading the way, how does a detective explain how she knows what she knows? And how does she stop it when the story is more than ever expected?
This is exceptional writing for a “new” author. I will be purchasing the next books, and I have no doubt that I will greatly enjoy them.
I am acquainted with Cameron through Goodreads.com, however, I purchased the book on my own and have not received payment for the purchase in any manner. All opinions are my own.
November 19, 2024
Interesting and fun with a badass fem lead. Worth chassing another book
October 16, 2013
Reading the Dead by J.B. Cameron
The Sarah Milton Chronicles
Sarah Milton was six was when Anna Nigma first appeared. Anna was twelve or thirteen, a child of the 1930s, with long blonde hair, always dressed in a red dress and bobby socks. As Sarah grew older, Anna stayed the same age, not disappearing until Sarah’s mother died with Sarah was fifteen.
Anna’s presence during Sarah’s childhood led to Sarah being ostracized by others and labeled a “freak” within her school. Once Anna vanished, Sarah tried hard to overcome this label and fit in with “normal” society.
Sarah’s mother was murdered; the crime was never solved. This led to Sarah’s burning desire to do something to change things, and hopefully solve her mother’s murder. As an adult, Sarah became a homicide detective with LAPD Violent Crimes Unit.
A serial killer known as Raithe was wreaking havoc on the city. Raithe was like no other serial known. So far, he’d murdered eight people in a very short time. The victims seemed to have nothing in common. They were different sexes, from different socioeconomic statuses, and were murdered in different ways. They only clue was the word “Raithe” left at each murder scene.
When Anna pops back into Sarah’s life after an armed robbery intervention gone wrong, the case really gets interesting.
This is an appealing story with several unexpected twists. The author uses humor, creating characters that are lively and memorable. Anna is fun and snarky, making the reader very curious about her back-story. Sarah is a lonely, little lost girl, all grown up. She’s a strong heroine, flawed and believable. The story itself draws the reader into the book, pages turning almost by themselves, as the killer draws closer to his ultimate goal.
J.B. Cameron has created two great characters with Anna Nigma and Sarah Milton. This is a burgeoning series well worth following. For readers interested in mysteries with a touch of the supernatural or paranormal, this book is most definitely for you.
I received this book through Goodreads’ Lovers’ of Paranormal Read for Review program. All opinions are my own.
The Sarah Milton Chronicles
Sarah Milton was six was when Anna Nigma first appeared. Anna was twelve or thirteen, a child of the 1930s, with long blonde hair, always dressed in a red dress and bobby socks. As Sarah grew older, Anna stayed the same age, not disappearing until Sarah’s mother died with Sarah was fifteen.
Anna’s presence during Sarah’s childhood led to Sarah being ostracized by others and labeled a “freak” within her school. Once Anna vanished, Sarah tried hard to overcome this label and fit in with “normal” society.
Sarah’s mother was murdered; the crime was never solved. This led to Sarah’s burning desire to do something to change things, and hopefully solve her mother’s murder. As an adult, Sarah became a homicide detective with LAPD Violent Crimes Unit.
A serial killer known as Raithe was wreaking havoc on the city. Raithe was like no other serial known. So far, he’d murdered eight people in a very short time. The victims seemed to have nothing in common. They were different sexes, from different socioeconomic statuses, and were murdered in different ways. They only clue was the word “Raithe” left at each murder scene.
When Anna pops back into Sarah’s life after an armed robbery intervention gone wrong, the case really gets interesting.
This is an appealing story with several unexpected twists. The author uses humor, creating characters that are lively and memorable. Anna is fun and snarky, making the reader very curious about her back-story. Sarah is a lonely, little lost girl, all grown up. She’s a strong heroine, flawed and believable. The story itself draws the reader into the book, pages turning almost by themselves, as the killer draws closer to his ultimate goal.
J.B. Cameron has created two great characters with Anna Nigma and Sarah Milton. This is a burgeoning series well worth following. For readers interested in mysteries with a touch of the supernatural or paranormal, this book is most definitely for you.
I received this book through Goodreads’ Lovers’ of Paranormal Read for Review program. All opinions are my own.
August 4, 2013
Wow is what I thought. I was given a copy to read and review, so since I didn't go out and get this from a best seller list I was open to the possibility that I might not like this book.
Wrong. I loved it. About the only complaint I had was a minor thing about possibily too much telling rather than showing at the start, and the motivation for the murders seeming obvious to me, but I think these are my quirks. I'm the sort that can tell a twist is coming a mile away, and that in no way stopped me from enjoying it. I'm also an author in the middle of taking an editing class, so I see holes in everything.
Saying that, this book had very few holes. I loved the relationship between Sarah and Anna, and was on the edge of my seat when I knew Anna was about to make her appearance. It was a nice mystery storyline, decent amount of twists, nice action, good thread of romance that didn't take away from the main plot, and most of all great humor. I definately saw the influence of Joss Wheldon in play, but again the humor was played right, not taking away from tension when it needed to be tense.
The descriptions were very vivid. I found myself halfway through thinking this would make a great movie because I could see it so clearly in my head. Not sure if that will happen since movies out lately seem to pick the most angst ridden books, but we can hope. Maybe a tv series. It has that sort of vibe.
Anyway. The major problem I had with this book I noticed a third of the way through (but I'm sure I just didn't notice it earlier), I couldn't put it down. I had work to do. I had sleep to do, but no, I wanted to see what happened next. What funny thing would Anna do next? Would Sarah's coworkers find out? What trouble is Sarah going to land herself into next time?
Then it was over, gone, but unlike other books I wasn't overwhelmed with sadness because the author was nice enough to give a satisfying conclusion. That said, I do want to read the next one and I will be looking out for what the author writes next.
Wrong. I loved it. About the only complaint I had was a minor thing about possibily too much telling rather than showing at the start, and the motivation for the murders seeming obvious to me, but I think these are my quirks. I'm the sort that can tell a twist is coming a mile away, and that in no way stopped me from enjoying it. I'm also an author in the middle of taking an editing class, so I see holes in everything.
Saying that, this book had very few holes. I loved the relationship between Sarah and Anna, and was on the edge of my seat when I knew Anna was about to make her appearance. It was a nice mystery storyline, decent amount of twists, nice action, good thread of romance that didn't take away from the main plot, and most of all great humor. I definately saw the influence of Joss Wheldon in play, but again the humor was played right, not taking away from tension when it needed to be tense.
The descriptions were very vivid. I found myself halfway through thinking this would make a great movie because I could see it so clearly in my head. Not sure if that will happen since movies out lately seem to pick the most angst ridden books, but we can hope. Maybe a tv series. It has that sort of vibe.
Anyway. The major problem I had with this book I noticed a third of the way through (but I'm sure I just didn't notice it earlier), I couldn't put it down. I had work to do. I had sleep to do, but no, I wanted to see what happened next. What funny thing would Anna do next? Would Sarah's coworkers find out? What trouble is Sarah going to land herself into next time?
Then it was over, gone, but unlike other books I wasn't overwhelmed with sadness because the author was nice enough to give a satisfying conclusion. That said, I do want to read the next one and I will be looking out for what the author writes next.
July 26, 2013
I quite enjoyed this novel; the characters are engaging and the plot kept my interest. I especially enjoyed the development of the relationship between Sarah and Anna. Anna is a great character; she pulls pranks, is gobby and obnoxious, prone to temper tantrums, loves Sarah unconditionally and likes to play Scrabble. There’s a lot of potential in this series of books, especially for the development of the damaged Sarah, and her relationship with Ryan (a colleague), and the solving of her mother’s murder. Hopefully, Anna will eventually find out who she is as well.
I try not to judge harshly, but I do have a couple of criticisms. I found some of the characters too convenient and predictable – Meghan the trust fund baby, who just so happens to be the owner of a rare and ancient book collection, just when Sarah needs such a friend. I hope she’s developed as more than just helpful scenery in the rest of the books. Sarah needs a friend. Sarah’s dad is also a bit of a caricature of the distant father/politician. Unfortunately I found myself guessing the plot about half way through. It was obvious that Anna’s a ghost and that Raithe is murdering people as revenge for the already dead. I was only mildly surprised when I discovered that the same already dead were pulling his strings – it’s in his name, after all.
It’s possible I’ve read far too many supernatural and crime novels and I’m being picky; it doesn’t matter that this means I can predict a plot with a decent amount of accuracy because I can still enjoy a new story. I look forward to reading the next in the Sarah Milton Chronicles ‘Fidelis In Æternum’.
I try not to judge harshly, but I do have a couple of criticisms. I found some of the characters too convenient and predictable – Meghan the trust fund baby, who just so happens to be the owner of a rare and ancient book collection, just when Sarah needs such a friend. I hope she’s developed as more than just helpful scenery in the rest of the books. Sarah needs a friend. Sarah’s dad is also a bit of a caricature of the distant father/politician. Unfortunately I found myself guessing the plot about half way through. It was obvious that Anna’s a ghost and that Raithe is murdering people as revenge for the already dead. I was only mildly surprised when I discovered that the same already dead were pulling his strings – it’s in his name, after all.
It’s possible I’ve read far too many supernatural and crime novels and I’m being picky; it doesn’t matter that this means I can predict a plot with a decent amount of accuracy because I can still enjoy a new story. I look forward to reading the next in the Sarah Milton Chronicles ‘Fidelis In Æternum’.
July 10, 2013
I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review LoP. The main character, Sarah, has an imaginary friend, Anna Nigma. From the time she is a child Anna is Sarah's constant companion; then suddenly after a life altering event, no more Anna. Sarah comes to terms with the abandonment of her friend for the most part. Sarah is a book addict, like me, so I can relate. She's also a Criminal Profiler who specializes in putting away the really bad guys and she's very good at her job. She's still her normal, dorky self and has more time for books than people. Although she is trying to change that.
Reading The Dead is a great traditional paranormal read. When I say traditional, I mean the "I see dead people" kind of way. This is an absolutely creative plot, with many twists and turns along the way. Turns out that Anna has been there for Sarah the whole time. And Anna isn't an imaginary friend - she's a ghost with really cool powers. Okay, only one, but it is cool; and it helps Sarah when she needs it most. The other characters in the story are pretty solid, the plot solid and very creative. I love the way the book ended - "Not the end." So I'm looking forward to the next installment and finding out more about Sarah and her other friends/co-workers.
Reading The Dead is a great traditional paranormal read. When I say traditional, I mean the "I see dead people" kind of way. This is an absolutely creative plot, with many twists and turns along the way. Turns out that Anna has been there for Sarah the whole time. And Anna isn't an imaginary friend - she's a ghost with really cool powers. Okay, only one, but it is cool; and it helps Sarah when she needs it most. The other characters in the story are pretty solid, the plot solid and very creative. I love the way the book ended - "Not the end." So I'm looking forward to the next installment and finding out more about Sarah and her other friends/co-workers.
October 22, 2014
Disclosure: I purchased the Kindle version of "Reading The Dead (The Sarah Milton Chronicles #1). I do not know the author, other than some brief interactions on the Goodreads site, nor have I ever had any communication with him about this book. The comments that follow are my own personal opinion. I received NO compensated of any kind, or from any one, to provide this review.
I enjoyed this book. Although I am not normally a fan of paranormal - I am definitely a crime/thriller fan and this book did it for me in that regard. I felt the story was entertaining and the main characters Sarah and Anna were well developed and engaging.
The writing and dialogue seemed a bit stiff at times. I found the plot interesting but not as intricate as I would have hoped. There seemed to be a lot of back story initially and some places where the pace seemed to bog down. But nothing here to knock the reader out of the story.
I can definitely recommend this book and found it an easy and relaxing read.
I enjoyed this book. Although I am not normally a fan of paranormal - I am definitely a crime/thriller fan and this book did it for me in that regard. I felt the story was entertaining and the main characters Sarah and Anna were well developed and engaging.
The writing and dialogue seemed a bit stiff at times. I found the plot interesting but not as intricate as I would have hoped. There seemed to be a lot of back story initially and some places where the pace seemed to bog down. But nothing here to knock the reader out of the story.
I can definitely recommend this book and found it an easy and relaxing read.
July 27, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the “Lovers of Paranormal” Group on Goodreads.com and the Author.
This was a terrific paranormal detective story. I absolutely loved Anna Nigma. Her character is a really snarky girl in her early teens and she is Sarah Milton's "imaginery" friend (or maybe not). This story was well written and entertaining. The detective story was great and the paranormal element added a great twist. I highly recommend this book to lovers of detective stories and paranormal stories.
This was a terrific paranormal detective story. I absolutely loved Anna Nigma. Her character is a really snarky girl in her early teens and she is Sarah Milton's "imaginery" friend (or maybe not). This story was well written and entertaining. The detective story was great and the paranormal element added a great twist. I highly recommend this book to lovers of detective stories and paranormal stories.
December 1, 2017
My first glance at this series was a few chapters in preview from Amazon.
I eagerly took advantage of the free advance copy of this book I received via Booksprout.
I'm pleased to have had the chance to read some amazing stories.
A tough LA cop who had suffered the loss of her mother at a young age was a character I enjoyed
discovering is a good sleuth, and an intuitive profiler, even before a serious injury forces her to face some
of her other abilities and vulnerabilities.
I don't think it would always be fun to be a psychic at murder scenes.
Sometimes funny, sometimes disturbing insights into twisted offenders.
Often filled with colorful support characters like psychic fortune teller Mama Chen.
If your're a mystery junkie like me, and you also enjoy the ocassional thriller and paranormal read,
this could be your next edge of your seat read.
I eagerly took advantage of the free advance copy of this book I received via Booksprout.
I'm pleased to have had the chance to read some amazing stories.
A tough LA cop who had suffered the loss of her mother at a young age was a character I enjoyed
discovering is a good sleuth, and an intuitive profiler, even before a serious injury forces her to face some
of her other abilities and vulnerabilities.
I don't think it would always be fun to be a psychic at murder scenes.
Sometimes funny, sometimes disturbing insights into twisted offenders.
Often filled with colorful support characters like psychic fortune teller Mama Chen.
If your're a mystery junkie like me, and you also enjoy the ocassional thriller and paranormal read,
this could be your next edge of your seat read.
January 25, 2018
I'm gonna jump right into my favorite thing about this book. Sarah Milton is tough, but without being hard or jaded. She's awkward but still tries to flirt. She has trauma in her past, but is perfectly willing to acknowledge her issues. Basically, she's not the stereotype female detective. That's pretty awesome. So I loved Sarah. Anna, on the other hand, had me wanting to twist her little head off for most of the book. She redeemed herself in the end, but the majority of the time, she was a very stereotypical teenager. I enjoyed the story, and love that the ending allows the book to stand alone, but leaves the reader wanting to head right into the next book.
This book was provided to me free of charge. I am writing this review voluntarily.
This book was provided to me free of charge. I am writing this review voluntarily.
March 14, 2018
Best Friends forever. That saying takes a whole new meaning when forever is really forever. Sarah enjoyed her invisible friends when she was young. She and Anna were inseparable. However, the grown-up Sarah has a definite problem realizing that she has a gift, a gift of being able to see ghosts. Sarah calls it a curse, not a gift. You will be entirely enchanted with the hard boiled cop that Sarah believes herself to be and her quirky ghost best friend Anna. The story is quite entertaining and I am looking forward to reading another book in this series. Enjoyed the writing style and how the story enfolded. You will enjoy this book if you like a good cast of characters and an intriguing story.
December 26, 2017
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I love to read paranormal and this has to rate right up there among my top 8 new series discovered this year. I loved everything about this book, but the main character was the best. What happens when the past rears its ugly head and with it comes the return of something you once thought was lost, and now your life is changed forever? Sarah was an amazing character and this book was filled with nonstop twists and turns that made this book impossible to put down until I finished it two hours later. I can't wait to read it again, and then continue in to book two.
December 24, 2017
It is always nice to read a book with a new twist. A good detective who is good at her job without any paranormal help finds herself surrounded by paranormal. Her imaginary childhood friend returns, the crimes she is investigating may have paranormal roots and she meets a woman who can also see and talk to the imaginary friend. There are all kinds of threads in the story that were left open to explore in future books, and kept my interest enough that I look forward to reading more in this series.
August 24, 2018
This first book in a series new to me was very intriguing. I found the protagonists to be very interesting, especially Sarah;
I was impressed with how well-written the book is and how well the characters came to life.
Overall, I enjoyed this first book and found it hard to put down. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
If you like non-stop action, wonderful romance, and great characters, pick up this book! Highly recommend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was impressed with how well-written the book is and how well the characters came to life.
Overall, I enjoyed this first book and found it hard to put down. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
If you like non-stop action, wonderful romance, and great characters, pick up this book! Highly recommend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 27, 2017
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the first book of a paranormal mystery series and I really loved it! There are gritty scenes, romantic ones, and hilarious as well. I love the mixing of genres with mystery books as it is my all time favorite genre! The characters were fleshed out well and gave me enough intrigue to get sucked in. I look forward to more of these books.
This is the first book of a paranormal mystery series and I really loved it! There are gritty scenes, romantic ones, and hilarious as well. I love the mixing of genres with mystery books as it is my all time favorite genre! The characters were fleshed out well and gave me enough intrigue to get sucked in. I look forward to more of these books.
February 4, 2018
This murder mystery with just a touch of paranormal by J B Cameron was a true delight to read and enjoy. This was much more than just your average detective story as it included a much deeper look at the police involved in the cases, along with their fun loving sidekick. I have already added the next book in this series to my TBR pile for sure. This is a very very late voluntary review of a review copy of this book from booksprout.com.
December 4, 2017
Well J.B. Cameron, this book was awesome!
As a believer (with experience), I love this story.
For someone to hear AND see spirits...wow, how lucky can you get.
I loved the twists and turns, the intrigue and the suspense.
How to catch a serial killer with NO (almost) clues to go on.
Grab this and treat yourself to a GREAT read!
As a believer (with experience), I love this story.
For someone to hear AND see spirits...wow, how lucky can you get.
I loved the twists and turns, the intrigue and the suspense.
How to catch a serial killer with NO (almost) clues to go on.
Grab this and treat yourself to a GREAT read!
December 27, 2017
A well written crime thriller with paranormal elements. It has a good plot great characters, ghosts, thrills, mystic elements, drama and a powerful story. I enjoyed this story and will read more by this author in the future. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 17, 2018
omg this was fab!.. heart pounding nonstop action. Ghosts, specters, death,
murder by proxy.. In the beginning I was liking it, but then it grabbed me and I was done for and couldnt put this book down! Mystery. Psychics
murder by proxy.. In the beginning I was liking it, but then it grabbed me and I was done for and couldnt put this book down! Mystery. Psychics
September 5, 2019
It may be that the technical issues (e-reader froze twice) I had during my time reading this book slightly influenced my lack of enjoyment, however I found many of the "exciting" scenes to take far too long to describe. I really liked the premise, though, and may continue with the series.
July 25, 2024
Absolutely brilliant story! Characters that bounce off the page, just the good ones for me. And action that doesn’t stop, good guys bad guys or otherwise. I loved it and will definitely read more from this author!
September 2, 2017
A thrilling murder mystery, but the ending left me figuratively hanging in the air ..
December 25, 2017
Loved reading this book alot.it was a great book.
December 26, 2017
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Great book!!! I really loved this book.
Great book!!! I really loved this book.
December 27, 2017
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
great twists and turns really enjoyable read
great twists and turns really enjoyable read
October 29, 2018
I received a free copy for a review. This story is really good and intense. The ending shocked me, when the problem wasn't solved but continued to the next book.
August 3, 2013
I was provided a copy of this book through Goodreads’ READ AND REVIEW program in exchange for my fair and honest review. I thank the author for this opportunity.
I rate Reading the Dead 4-1/2 stars!
I generally begin my reviews with a comment on how “readable” I found the work at issue to be, in light of possible grammar and editing issues. They happen—and most of the time (though not always) they can be disregarded. This is one of those cases. There were a few—but only a few—such issues and so, they were not accounted for this review.
Where to start with the story itself? Well, I suppose I will begin with the simple statement: I really enjoyed this read! Although the story does not fall within my usual genre, it is not a genre I would shy away from. Still and all, most paranormal stories I’ve read in the past that have included “spirits of those who have gone before,” have been rather dark, foreboding. Sometimes, they make the hair on my arms stand on end or I get that creepy “is somebody there watching?” feeling. Not so with Reading the Dead. Quite the contrary, in fact. That is—I laughed—frequently!
Sarah discovers an “imaginary friend” as a child, a friend that makes Sarah stand out—and not in a good way. That friend, was the lost spirit of a child, whom Sarah dubs “Anna Nigma.” (An enigma! That’s funny! Or, was it Anna Nimity? Or, Anna Nonimus? Great stuff, Cameron.) It is not until Sarah’s mother’s death that Sarah loses this sidekick—for a time. Anna shows up again after Sarah has a brush with death.
What I am next going to say will probably anger a few folks, but here it is: I have grown weary of fragile, witless, whiny, female lead characters—more often than not—though by no means always—written by men. (In fairness, I suspect men fairly frequently find fragile, witless, whiny male lead characters written by women—and I imagine they tire of them as well!) BUT—Cameron’s creation of Sarah has helped restore my faith that it can be done!
As to little Anna, she is the quintessential sassy child—a little too young to be independent—but old enough to have something to say in nearly every situation. Anna’s antics seemed very real to me.
I enjoyed Cameron’s word pictures and his ability to make his characters “real.” We learn that as a child, Sarah had “eventually learned to mimic [Anna’s] knack for blending into the background.” (A ghost with a knack for blending into the background! Ha!) Together, Sarah and Anna “grew up,” though Anna never aged a day. As to Sarah’s relationship with her father, things had never been good. Indeed, after the wake and funeral of Sarah’s mother, Sarah’s father made his way through the room with a “practiced politician’s fashion,” barely noticing Sarah. Thus, “[i]t was the most alone [she] had ever felt in a crowd.” Even now, years later, Sarah’s father cannot even seem to remember Sarah’s birthday. . . .
But, Sarah is made strong through her troubled years and experiences—strong and smart. She is a well-known criminal investigator for the LAPD. It is when Sarah is on the job that we meet more interesting characters, including Detective Chelsea “Kandy” Kane, a former-porn-star-turned-detective, Commander Mason Childs, a man so tall that every time he stood over Sarah, he “eclipse[d] the sun,” and Lieutenant Carmine Delgado, a man who did not get along well with others. Indeed, Delgado “stepped on more toes than a three legged ballroom dancer.” We read of a rookie who, unable to stand the sights at a murder scene, earns the moniker “Sir Pukes a Lot,” (even while Sarah, before entering that same crime scene, dons rubber gloves that are referred to as her “party favors”), and so on.
Truly, Cameron brought genuine humor to this story—humor that was not forced but natural, relating to all of the characters—even to Bosco, Sarah’s dog. (Sarah thinks she might go back to the pet store to see if they will take trade-ins. She’s not sure she asked the clerk for a puppy, but she is certain she had not requested “a furry demon.”)
Now and again, a reader comes across an indie-published work that makes that reader think: I sure hope some literary agent didn’t pass on this because if so, that person should be kicking himself! Reading the Dead is one of those works.
Well done, Cameron! If you ever need another work reviewed—let me know!
I rate Reading the Dead 4-1/2 stars!
I generally begin my reviews with a comment on how “readable” I found the work at issue to be, in light of possible grammar and editing issues. They happen—and most of the time (though not always) they can be disregarded. This is one of those cases. There were a few—but only a few—such issues and so, they were not accounted for this review.
Where to start with the story itself? Well, I suppose I will begin with the simple statement: I really enjoyed this read! Although the story does not fall within my usual genre, it is not a genre I would shy away from. Still and all, most paranormal stories I’ve read in the past that have included “spirits of those who have gone before,” have been rather dark, foreboding. Sometimes, they make the hair on my arms stand on end or I get that creepy “is somebody there watching?” feeling. Not so with Reading the Dead. Quite the contrary, in fact. That is—I laughed—frequently!
Sarah discovers an “imaginary friend” as a child, a friend that makes Sarah stand out—and not in a good way. That friend, was the lost spirit of a child, whom Sarah dubs “Anna Nigma.” (An enigma! That’s funny! Or, was it Anna Nimity? Or, Anna Nonimus? Great stuff, Cameron.) It is not until Sarah’s mother’s death that Sarah loses this sidekick—for a time. Anna shows up again after Sarah has a brush with death.
What I am next going to say will probably anger a few folks, but here it is: I have grown weary of fragile, witless, whiny, female lead characters—more often than not—though by no means always—written by men. (In fairness, I suspect men fairly frequently find fragile, witless, whiny male lead characters written by women—and I imagine they tire of them as well!) BUT—Cameron’s creation of Sarah has helped restore my faith that it can be done!
As to little Anna, she is the quintessential sassy child—a little too young to be independent—but old enough to have something to say in nearly every situation. Anna’s antics seemed very real to me.
I enjoyed Cameron’s word pictures and his ability to make his characters “real.” We learn that as a child, Sarah had “eventually learned to mimic [Anna’s] knack for blending into the background.” (A ghost with a knack for blending into the background! Ha!) Together, Sarah and Anna “grew up,” though Anna never aged a day. As to Sarah’s relationship with her father, things had never been good. Indeed, after the wake and funeral of Sarah’s mother, Sarah’s father made his way through the room with a “practiced politician’s fashion,” barely noticing Sarah. Thus, “[i]t was the most alone [she] had ever felt in a crowd.” Even now, years later, Sarah’s father cannot even seem to remember Sarah’s birthday. . . .
But, Sarah is made strong through her troubled years and experiences—strong and smart. She is a well-known criminal investigator for the LAPD. It is when Sarah is on the job that we meet more interesting characters, including Detective Chelsea “Kandy” Kane, a former-porn-star-turned-detective, Commander Mason Childs, a man so tall that every time he stood over Sarah, he “eclipse[d] the sun,” and Lieutenant Carmine Delgado, a man who did not get along well with others. Indeed, Delgado “stepped on more toes than a three legged ballroom dancer.” We read of a rookie who, unable to stand the sights at a murder scene, earns the moniker “Sir Pukes a Lot,” (even while Sarah, before entering that same crime scene, dons rubber gloves that are referred to as her “party favors”), and so on.
Truly, Cameron brought genuine humor to this story—humor that was not forced but natural, relating to all of the characters—even to Bosco, Sarah’s dog. (Sarah thinks she might go back to the pet store to see if they will take trade-ins. She’s not sure she asked the clerk for a puppy, but she is certain she had not requested “a furry demon.”)
Now and again, a reader comes across an indie-published work that makes that reader think: I sure hope some literary agent didn’t pass on this because if so, that person should be kicking himself! Reading the Dead is one of those works.
Well done, Cameron! If you ever need another work reviewed—let me know!
May 13, 2025
I do not know how I came across a rant from the author that someone had stolen their Pen Name & author account. I purchased this on kindle immediately.
It's a good thriller, a good paranormal, a good female-main lead story; the physical pain described in the book really got me ! The humour is also okay.
At one point I thought that the book is going to trash Psychologists & the profession but it was only trashing a particular police psychologist.
It's a good thriller, a good paranormal, a good female-main lead story; the physical pain described in the book really got me ! The humour is also okay.
At one point I thought that the book is going to trash Psychologists & the profession but it was only trashing a particular police psychologist.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews