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Psychic Detective #2
Something Wicked
Something wicked this way comes…
All homicide detective Dylan Collins wants is a few hours of pleasure to take his mind off of the case haunting him. A serial killer is stalking the streets of Charleston, SC – a killer who calls himself The Grim Reaper. When the woman he'd just spent the night with turns up and offers her services as a psychic consultant on the case, his ardor quickly cools. Last thing he needs is to get tangled up with a con artist.
It doesn't take long for Dylan to realize Alexandra King is the real deal – and the killer's next target. Dylan's protective instincts battle his reluctance to get too involved with a woman he isn't sure he can trust. As they get closer to finding the killer, they also grow closer to one another, but will Alexandra's secret agenda destroy their chance at happiness – if the killer doesn't strike first?
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2013
About the author
Angela Campbell
9 books72 followersAn eclectic reader who loves almost every genre, Angela Campbell read her first romance novel at 16 and immediately endeavored to write one, too. Many offbeat attempts (and a couple of decades) later, she published her first novel through Carina Press. Her new romantic suspense series is being published by Harper Impulse. With every story she pens, Angela aims to build in a paranormal element to a contemporary and recognizable world with characters who find love in oftentimes humorous and extraordinary situations.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
August 12, 2014
3.5 stars
We first met Alexandra when she helped Zach come to terms with his psychic abilities in the first book, since then she has started working for Zach at his private detective agency and has become very good friend's with Hannah. Alexandra has always been able to talk to ghosts but she currently being haunted by Zach's mother who is desperate to find a way to reunite her sons. Zach and Dylan haven't spoken to each other for years, Dylan believes his older brother abandoned him and has refused Zach's attempts to reconnect. The only way Alexandra is going to be able to stop their mother from following her around all day is to find a way of getting the two of them to talk to each other but Dylan is stubborn so it won't be easy.
As it turns out Dylan is in need of Alexandra's help for more than one reason, he is a detective currently on the hunt for a serial killer but the murderer is very good at covering his tracks and it could be that Alexandra's abilities are the only way they'll be able to catch him. Dylan doesn't believe in psychics though so he is very reluctant to accept Alexandra's help and he pushes against it for all he's worth. Unfortunately Alexandra catches the eye of the killer and it looks like she's going to be the next victim, unless Dylan can get past his prejudice and learn to work alongside her to stop him before it's too late.
Something Wicked is the second book in Angela Campbell's psychic detectives series and I enjoyed it just as much as the first. While it was the pets that stole the show in the first book (watch out for a guest appearance from Abbott the cat here - he's just as snarky and amusing as usual!) this time around the quirky humour is added by the ghosts that surround Charleston. Alexandra is like a ghost magnet and they are all drawn to her because of her abilities which leads to some amusing situations. I liked both characters, Alexandra is confident about who she is and is proud of her abilities. I loved the fact that she doesn't care if people believe her or not - she just gets out there and does her thing and passes on the information to the police. Dylan is stubborn and doesn't want to believe her but it doesn't take her long to prove herself to him. They have great chemistry and make a really cute couple.
The books in this series are all quick, fun reads that are full of humour and a nice amount of romance versus action and I'm looking forward to reading the third book Spirited Away.
We first met Alexandra when she helped Zach come to terms with his psychic abilities in the first book, since then she has started working for Zach at his private detective agency and has become very good friend's with Hannah. Alexandra has always been able to talk to ghosts but she currently being haunted by Zach's mother who is desperate to find a way to reunite her sons. Zach and Dylan haven't spoken to each other for years, Dylan believes his older brother abandoned him and has refused Zach's attempts to reconnect. The only way Alexandra is going to be able to stop their mother from following her around all day is to find a way of getting the two of them to talk to each other but Dylan is stubborn so it won't be easy.
As it turns out Dylan is in need of Alexandra's help for more than one reason, he is a detective currently on the hunt for a serial killer but the murderer is very good at covering his tracks and it could be that Alexandra's abilities are the only way they'll be able to catch him. Dylan doesn't believe in psychics though so he is very reluctant to accept Alexandra's help and he pushes against it for all he's worth. Unfortunately Alexandra catches the eye of the killer and it looks like she's going to be the next victim, unless Dylan can get past his prejudice and learn to work alongside her to stop him before it's too late.
Something Wicked is the second book in Angela Campbell's psychic detectives series and I enjoyed it just as much as the first. While it was the pets that stole the show in the first book (watch out for a guest appearance from Abbott the cat here - he's just as snarky and amusing as usual!) this time around the quirky humour is added by the ghosts that surround Charleston. Alexandra is like a ghost magnet and they are all drawn to her because of her abilities which leads to some amusing situations. I liked both characters, Alexandra is confident about who she is and is proud of her abilities. I loved the fact that she doesn't care if people believe her or not - she just gets out there and does her thing and passes on the information to the police. Dylan is stubborn and doesn't want to believe her but it doesn't take her long to prove herself to him. They have great chemistry and make a really cute couple.
The books in this series are all quick, fun reads that are full of humour and a nice amount of romance versus action and I'm looking forward to reading the third book Spirited Away.
October 23, 2013
THIS IS OUT TODAY!
Something Wicked caught my eye as soon as I realized it was a paranormal novel based in Charleston, SC. I am so glad that I clicked that “Request” button!
Alexandra King is a psychic medium who visits Charleston to track down the estranged brother of her boss. She soon learns that all of the ghosts in this historic town can quickly overwhelm her defenses and there are strong spirits that want her out of the way.
This was a fun book that was easy to read. Alexandra is a fairly strong heroine and I especially appreciated that she wasn’t a doormat to gain the affection of our hero, Dylan. While he is an alpha male, he doesn’t overdo it with the “she’s mine” mentality that can be frustrating in some PNR.
There are no big surprises here – girl meets boy, they fall into bed together, conflict ensues, etc., etc., etc. But, sometimes it’s okay to be a little predictable. The author kept it interesting with the banter and flirtation between the main characters and the supporting cast (specifically the Charleston ghosts) was also very entertaining. It wasn’t too dark, was steamy but not raunchy and had a good amount of action. Charleston was a great back-drop to the story and it was nice to see restaurants and other locations mentioned that we all know and love.
I would recommend this for anyone looking for a good paranormal romance with a little mystery. 4/5 stars.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an E-ARC through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Something Wicked caught my eye as soon as I realized it was a paranormal novel based in Charleston, SC. I am so glad that I clicked that “Request” button!
Alexandra King is a psychic medium who visits Charleston to track down the estranged brother of her boss. She soon learns that all of the ghosts in this historic town can quickly overwhelm her defenses and there are strong spirits that want her out of the way.
This was a fun book that was easy to read. Alexandra is a fairly strong heroine and I especially appreciated that she wasn’t a doormat to gain the affection of our hero, Dylan. While he is an alpha male, he doesn’t overdo it with the “she’s mine” mentality that can be frustrating in some PNR.
There are no big surprises here – girl meets boy, they fall into bed together, conflict ensues, etc., etc., etc. But, sometimes it’s okay to be a little predictable. The author kept it interesting with the banter and flirtation between the main characters and the supporting cast (specifically the Charleston ghosts) was also very entertaining. It wasn’t too dark, was steamy but not raunchy and had a good amount of action. Charleston was a great back-drop to the story and it was nice to see restaurants and other locations mentioned that we all know and love.
I would recommend this for anyone looking for a good paranormal romance with a little mystery. 4/5 stars.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an E-ARC through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2018
I absolutely loved this Paranormal Romance. It had everything I love to read. Romance, steamy passion, and twists and turns in the suspense. It just hit all of my reading love buttons. It has a hint of humor and a couple of sidekicks, and I also learned a new slang phrase, LOL.
The book had a few typos which usually takes a star. And, I usually prefer a HEA not a HFN. But, those things did not take away from this delightful tale. Excellent read.
May 27, 2019
It didn't rock my world but I liked it
I liked the characters and the pace, though there was a part past de 50% that got a bit slow for me.
An entertaining and light read :)
I liked the characters and the pace, though there was a part past de 50% that got a bit slow for me.
An entertaining and light read :)
November 14, 2013
This turned out to be quite a surprise.
It is a very well-written paranormal romance, the sequel to On the Scent with plenty of sub-plots for further books.
It flowed really smoothly plotwise with just the right amount of steamy bedroom scenes with the paranormal storyline jogging seamlessly alongside. Often authors find it difficult to balance the two genres in one story but this was just right.
The main character Alexandra has been tasked with finding her employers brother so the two of them can reconcile. The person who has sent her on this mission just happens to be dead. Whilst out searching for him she stumbles into the midst of a police investigation and unfortunately the killer takes a shine to her.
So what we have here are the ingredients for a normal para romance and yes it has all been done before, but this just ticked all the boxes for me. It was entertaining without being cheesy, it was romantic without being x-rated or soppy and there was enough action to sustain an interest in the crime angle.
I received a copy of this book via Netgalley.
It is a very well-written paranormal romance, the sequel to On the Scent with plenty of sub-plots for further books.
It flowed really smoothly plotwise with just the right amount of steamy bedroom scenes with the paranormal storyline jogging seamlessly alongside. Often authors find it difficult to balance the two genres in one story but this was just right.
The main character Alexandra has been tasked with finding her employers brother so the two of them can reconcile. The person who has sent her on this mission just happens to be dead. Whilst out searching for him she stumbles into the midst of a police investigation and unfortunately the killer takes a shine to her.
So what we have here are the ingredients for a normal para romance and yes it has all been done before, but this just ticked all the boxes for me. It was entertaining without being cheesy, it was romantic without being x-rated or soppy and there was enough action to sustain an interest in the crime angle.
I received a copy of this book via Netgalley.
August 18, 2017
Another great book
This was a better book than the first one. I agree with other reviews that it would have been great to have a little more of the animals as well as Zach but overall it was worth the money. I am on to the next book. Hope it is as good as this one. I will be adding this series to my read again list.
This was a better book than the first one. I agree with other reviews that it would have been great to have a little more of the animals as well as Zach but overall it was worth the money. I am on to the next book. Hope it is as good as this one. I will be adding this series to my read again list.
August 27, 2017
ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC
This is the second book in the series and it was every bit as good as the first one. It has everything in it that I require in a good book, strong characters, a good romance and a great mystery. The paranormal aspect is just an amazing plus. Now I'm on to book 3. I sure hope these keep coming for a long time.
This is the second book in the series and it was every bit as good as the first one. It has everything in it that I require in a good book, strong characters, a good romance and a great mystery. The paranormal aspect is just an amazing plus. Now I'm on to book 3. I sure hope these keep coming for a long time.
October 10, 2025
Although the story started out fun, it went into demonology and all sorts of EVIL, and that's just not my thing. I enjoy ghosts and witches and having fun and and maybe a bad ghost here & there but not demons taking over ghosts who remain earth bound too long. I won't be reading more of this series and maybe not even the author.
August 28, 2017
Great fun with supernatural
Ms. Campbell has a way to make you want to be involved with the supernatural. I liked how she introduced demons into the book. Lots of smiles.
Ms. Campbell has a way to make you want to be involved with the supernatural. I liked how she introduced demons into the book. Lots of smiles.
September 2, 2017
I loved this book. It was very interesting. I read this book in one sitting.
October 16, 2018
At least 4.5 stars! This is a excellent read. Alexandra and Dylan make a great couple. There is lots of conflict, turmoil, and tension. Love the ghost, George; he is a character.
October 27, 2018
Creepier than book 1
Alexandra's and Dylan's story. Much creepier than the first one. Same sense of humor, but Charleston ghosts, demon, and a serial killer..
Alexandra's and Dylan's story. Much creepier than the first one. Same sense of humor, but Charleston ghosts, demon, and a serial killer..
December 10, 2018
If possible the each book is more thrilling.
August 24, 2025
Silly, fun mystery
November 3, 2013
Originally published at Reading Reality
“By the pricking of my thumbs, something wicked this way comes”, or so says one of the witches in Macbeth.
Something Wicked is also the darker second book in Angela Campbell’s Psychic Detectives series, after the first book in the series, the light-hearted romp On the Scent, reviewed at Book Lovers Inc.
I picked Something Wicked as my Halloween review because it considerably darker than the first book in the series. While the story still contains a romance, there is much more of a feeling of suspense and absolutely a heart of darkness; psychic medium Alexandra King and Charleston Police Detective Dylan Collins are on the trail of a serial killer calling himself “Grim Reaper”; all the while that Grim Reaper is stalking them.
The story starts as a simple quest. At the end of On the Scent, the late, lamented Rebecca Collins pesters Alexandra King until she agrees to go to Charleston to attempt to reunite her two sons, Zachary and Dylan. Alexandra left Zachary in Atlanta, happily in love with Hannah at the end of the previous story, but unfortunately very much estranged from his younger brother Dylan.
Dylan is a cop in Charleston, and Rebecca is sure that he is in danger, and not just the everyday kind of danger a cop usually faces. In case you missed it, I called Rebecca the “late, lamented”. Rebecca is a ghost, and Alexandra does, indeed, see dead people. This is that kind of story. It is Halloween, after all.
There's “meet cute” and then there's “meet really cute.” Alexandra gets to Charleston, goes to a bar/restaurant recommended by her hotel, has a meal, picks up a gorgeous guy, has a night of really fantastic sex, and never gets the guy's name.
The next morning, her visions show her that there’s a serial killer in town, and that the cop leading the case is both her one night stand and the guy she came to find. Only then does she discover that Dylan Collins hates psychics. Dylan does not want her on the case. His boss does. The police need all the help they can get, even from a psychic.
Something Wicked should have been the same kind of lighthearted romp that the first book was, but it isn't. Not just because the serial killer is not merely a sick bastard, but he’s chasing Alexandra and Dylan while they’re chasing him. It goes further than that. Alexandra has a sympathetic relationship with ghosts, she helps them “cross over” to the other side. Something evil is messing with the ghosts of Charleston, and is making living people get sick, too. A demon gives Dylan’s partner pneumonia. Charleston has LOTS of ghosts (think Civil War) and the demon is suborning those ghosts and getting them to attack the living. It’s very creepy.
So we have a live serial killer, killing people, and a dead serial killer messing with ghosts doing even more evil. Kind of a double-creepy effect. This shouldn't work but it very much does.
Because Alexandra talks with ghosts, she can be affected from both planes, so both the serial killer and the demon are out to get her.
It all starts because one mother wanted to make sure her sons reconciled. If Zachary and Dylan work together, maybe they can manage to save both Rebecca and Alexandra.
Escape Rating Boo+: Something Wicked is a wickedly fun read for Halloween, although it will help you enjoy the story if you read On the Scent first to get introduced to Alexandra and the other Collins brother, Zachary. The scene late in the book where Zach figures out where Alexandra is will be way more fun (and loads funnier!) if you know their history.
Dylan and Alexandra have a lot to work through. They start out not being honest with each other, at least partially because they start out not sharing much except hot sex. No introductions were made. It’s only later that Alexandra neglects to mention that she’s in Charleston because she knows Dylan’s brother.
The scene where Alexandra gives Dylan a complete dressing down for his assumptions about psychics is funny but also spot-on. He has a lot of baggage he needs to lose before they can have a real relationship. He spends most of the story dropping those bags, piece by piece.
This story had just the right amount of creepy factor for a Halloween read for me. I don’t like straight out horror, but I was looking for something with those elements to give the season that appropriately shivery sensation. Something Wicked was just right!
“By the pricking of my thumbs, something wicked this way comes”, or so says one of the witches in Macbeth.
Something Wicked is also the darker second book in Angela Campbell’s Psychic Detectives series, after the first book in the series, the light-hearted romp On the Scent, reviewed at Book Lovers Inc.
I picked Something Wicked as my Halloween review because it considerably darker than the first book in the series. While the story still contains a romance, there is much more of a feeling of suspense and absolutely a heart of darkness; psychic medium Alexandra King and Charleston Police Detective Dylan Collins are on the trail of a serial killer calling himself “Grim Reaper”; all the while that Grim Reaper is stalking them.
The story starts as a simple quest. At the end of On the Scent, the late, lamented Rebecca Collins pesters Alexandra King until she agrees to go to Charleston to attempt to reunite her two sons, Zachary and Dylan. Alexandra left Zachary in Atlanta, happily in love with Hannah at the end of the previous story, but unfortunately very much estranged from his younger brother Dylan.
Dylan is a cop in Charleston, and Rebecca is sure that he is in danger, and not just the everyday kind of danger a cop usually faces. In case you missed it, I called Rebecca the “late, lamented”. Rebecca is a ghost, and Alexandra does, indeed, see dead people. This is that kind of story. It is Halloween, after all.
There's “meet cute” and then there's “meet really cute.” Alexandra gets to Charleston, goes to a bar/restaurant recommended by her hotel, has a meal, picks up a gorgeous guy, has a night of really fantastic sex, and never gets the guy's name.
The next morning, her visions show her that there’s a serial killer in town, and that the cop leading the case is both her one night stand and the guy she came to find. Only then does she discover that Dylan Collins hates psychics. Dylan does not want her on the case. His boss does. The police need all the help they can get, even from a psychic.
Something Wicked should have been the same kind of lighthearted romp that the first book was, but it isn't. Not just because the serial killer is not merely a sick bastard, but he’s chasing Alexandra and Dylan while they’re chasing him. It goes further than that. Alexandra has a sympathetic relationship with ghosts, she helps them “cross over” to the other side. Something evil is messing with the ghosts of Charleston, and is making living people get sick, too. A demon gives Dylan’s partner pneumonia. Charleston has LOTS of ghosts (think Civil War) and the demon is suborning those ghosts and getting them to attack the living. It’s very creepy.
So we have a live serial killer, killing people, and a dead serial killer messing with ghosts doing even more evil. Kind of a double-creepy effect. This shouldn't work but it very much does.
Because Alexandra talks with ghosts, she can be affected from both planes, so both the serial killer and the demon are out to get her.
It all starts because one mother wanted to make sure her sons reconciled. If Zachary and Dylan work together, maybe they can manage to save both Rebecca and Alexandra.
Escape Rating Boo+: Something Wicked is a wickedly fun read for Halloween, although it will help you enjoy the story if you read On the Scent first to get introduced to Alexandra and the other Collins brother, Zachary. The scene late in the book where Zach figures out where Alexandra is will be way more fun (and loads funnier!) if you know their history.
Dylan and Alexandra have a lot to work through. They start out not being honest with each other, at least partially because they start out not sharing much except hot sex. No introductions were made. It’s only later that Alexandra neglects to mention that she’s in Charleston because she knows Dylan’s brother.
The scene where Alexandra gives Dylan a complete dressing down for his assumptions about psychics is funny but also spot-on. He has a lot of baggage he needs to lose before they can have a real relationship. He spends most of the story dropping those bags, piece by piece.
This story had just the right amount of creepy factor for a Halloween read for me. I don’t like straight out horror, but I was looking for something with those elements to give the season that appropriately shivery sensation. Something Wicked was just right!
November 23, 2013
Originally posted at http://smexybooks.com/2013/12/review-...
Alexandra King, a medium who works for The Psychic Detective agency, is at her wits end. Harassed by her boss’s deceased mother, she finds herself in Charleston, SC trying to find her boss’s brother and convince him to reconcile with her boss per their mother’s request. Using her contacts, she gets herself placed on a case he is working on only to discover he is her one night stand from earlier. Awkward to say the least, Alexandra has to convince the younger Collins that she and her gifts ar real before the killer they are hunting adds her to his collection.
Dylan Collins a detective on the Charleston police force and confirmed skeptic, is shocked to find the woman from his dream night is a psychic. Already caught up in a demanding case, he doesn’t have time to mess with a con artist. When he finally realizes she is in fact the real deal, he is dismayed to find she has become the focus of the serial killer he is hunting.
Working together brings Alexandra and Dylan closer and the chemistry heats up as these two do some heavy duty investigation between the sheets. Can Dylan keep Alexandra safe as the killer closes in on them? And when Alexandra’s real reason for being there comes to light, will it destroy whatever chance at happiness they might have?
Something Wicked is the second book in Campbell’s Psychic Detective series. Though it picks up where book one leaves off, Campbell interjects pertinent facts from book one into this story in order to allow the reader to dive right in without feeling as though they are missing parts of the story or need to read the first book to understand what is happening. A fast lightweight PNR that offers up some steamy romance intertwined with an interesting mystery. Heavily character driven, we see old friends and meet some new ones who add to the overall appeal of this series.
While I enjoyed Something Wicked, I wasn’t blown away by it. The story line, especially the romance, is fairly predictable. I found the actual story far less dark than the premise suggested though Campbell does a good job of setting up the main conflict and developing the villain’s storyline. What engaged me more was the characters. Alexandra is a strong intelligent good natured woman who isn’t ashamed of her gifts or her sexuality. She doesn’t allow Dylan at anytime to make her feel guilty for what she can do and I liked that she was able to engage in a sexual relationship with him without feeling guilty.
Dylan is equally strong and intelligent and even his hard to let go of skepticism didn’t distract. His feelings are genuine and I would have been skeptical myself if he had instantly accepted Alexandra’s claims. He has a strong alpha streak but doesn’t go overboard in his need to protect Alexandra.
Their chemistry is intense; filled with sexuality and humor. They have a delightful banter between them that heightens their appeal. The romance develops slowly in the midst of the main conflict and Campbell allows plenty of time for them to get to know one another and resolve their differences. Both carry a considerable amount of baggage and neither are completely honest with one another in the beginning. I did feel that Alexandra allowed Dylan to get away with too much. She would have a righteous anger going on but the minute he gave off any sexual vibes, she gave in to him and forgot her ire.
A personable cast of secondary characters add depth and humor to the story. I love the story is set in Charleston and a tribute paid to this lovely haunted city. George, the derby hat wearing ghost that haunts the local watering hole, is hilarious in his efforts to engage and interact with our hero and heroine. Various other ghostly entities make their way towards the heroine and help facilitate the storyline and it’s ending.
The ending is quite intense as Dylan and Alexandra find themselves caught in the serial killer’s web and fighting for their lives and love. Questions are answered and they get plenty of help from some unexpected sources. Everything wraps up nicely and we are left with our couple in a happy place.
All in all, a humorous lightweight PNR with a viable couple and engaging plotlines. Book three, title and release date to be announced, is Spider’s (Emma’s) story.
RATING: C+
Alexandra King, a medium who works for The Psychic Detective agency, is at her wits end. Harassed by her boss’s deceased mother, she finds herself in Charleston, SC trying to find her boss’s brother and convince him to reconcile with her boss per their mother’s request. Using her contacts, she gets herself placed on a case he is working on only to discover he is her one night stand from earlier. Awkward to say the least, Alexandra has to convince the younger Collins that she and her gifts ar real before the killer they are hunting adds her to his collection.
Dylan Collins a detective on the Charleston police force and confirmed skeptic, is shocked to find the woman from his dream night is a psychic. Already caught up in a demanding case, he doesn’t have time to mess with a con artist. When he finally realizes she is in fact the real deal, he is dismayed to find she has become the focus of the serial killer he is hunting.
Working together brings Alexandra and Dylan closer and the chemistry heats up as these two do some heavy duty investigation between the sheets. Can Dylan keep Alexandra safe as the killer closes in on them? And when Alexandra’s real reason for being there comes to light, will it destroy whatever chance at happiness they might have?
Something Wicked is the second book in Campbell’s Psychic Detective series. Though it picks up where book one leaves off, Campbell interjects pertinent facts from book one into this story in order to allow the reader to dive right in without feeling as though they are missing parts of the story or need to read the first book to understand what is happening. A fast lightweight PNR that offers up some steamy romance intertwined with an interesting mystery. Heavily character driven, we see old friends and meet some new ones who add to the overall appeal of this series.
While I enjoyed Something Wicked, I wasn’t blown away by it. The story line, especially the romance, is fairly predictable. I found the actual story far less dark than the premise suggested though Campbell does a good job of setting up the main conflict and developing the villain’s storyline. What engaged me more was the characters. Alexandra is a strong intelligent good natured woman who isn’t ashamed of her gifts or her sexuality. She doesn’t allow Dylan at anytime to make her feel guilty for what she can do and I liked that she was able to engage in a sexual relationship with him without feeling guilty.
Dylan is equally strong and intelligent and even his hard to let go of skepticism didn’t distract. His feelings are genuine and I would have been skeptical myself if he had instantly accepted Alexandra’s claims. He has a strong alpha streak but doesn’t go overboard in his need to protect Alexandra.
Their chemistry is intense; filled with sexuality and humor. They have a delightful banter between them that heightens their appeal. The romance develops slowly in the midst of the main conflict and Campbell allows plenty of time for them to get to know one another and resolve their differences. Both carry a considerable amount of baggage and neither are completely honest with one another in the beginning. I did feel that Alexandra allowed Dylan to get away with too much. She would have a righteous anger going on but the minute he gave off any sexual vibes, she gave in to him and forgot her ire.
A personable cast of secondary characters add depth and humor to the story. I love the story is set in Charleston and a tribute paid to this lovely haunted city. George, the derby hat wearing ghost that haunts the local watering hole, is hilarious in his efforts to engage and interact with our hero and heroine. Various other ghostly entities make their way towards the heroine and help facilitate the storyline and it’s ending.
The ending is quite intense as Dylan and Alexandra find themselves caught in the serial killer’s web and fighting for their lives and love. Questions are answered and they get plenty of help from some unexpected sources. Everything wraps up nicely and we are left with our couple in a happy place.
All in all, a humorous lightweight PNR with a viable couple and engaging plotlines. Book three, title and release date to be announced, is Spider’s (Emma’s) story.
RATING: C+
January 12, 2014
I love the idea of combining romantic suspense with the paranormal so when I saw this one I just had to read it. I'm glad I took the plunge with this new to me author and series. Enjoyable from cover to cover.
This is the second book in the series, but I had no trouble jumping in. There were references to the earlier story, but this second book was pretty self-contained as far as the main plot went. It only left me with a strong desire to go back and read the first book before continuing on with the next one.
Alexandra King is a psychic who is on a mission to find the estranged brother of her boss and attempt to get them to reconcile. The ghost of their mother won't leave her alone until she does. Alexandra arrives in Charleston, SC prepared to go on the hunt and her first night out she encounters a playful ghost and then accepts the company of a gorgeous flirty man. It's not until later that she discovers that her one night stand is none other than Nate's brother, Dylan, whom she was searching for. Unfortunately, she has to set aside the first mission because due to her psychic connections to ghosts she has encountered a more pressing issue. There's a serial killer in town with connections to something so dark that even ghosts fear it.
Dylan Collins, homicide detective, was just trying to enjoy some much needed down time away from his latest case when he encounters the spunky and pretty, Alexandra. They have a good time and he considers spending more time with her until he encounters her in his captain's office and learns she's volunteered to consult on his case as a psychic. He despises that set of phonies, but he has no choice. Slowly Alexandra's successes prove to him that she might just be the real thing. In the meantime, the killer makes it clear that his sights are now set on Alexandra and Dylan will have to learn to accept all that paranormal stuff and work with Alexandra if he wishes to save her and stop the killer.
The plot was engaging and the pace good. I loved both Alexandra and Dylan as narrators. Their characters were great. They had real chemistry between them, but I enjoyed how the relationship came along much more slowly as Dylan had to work through his issues when it came to psychics and the stuff from his past. Dylan will be a favorite cop hero. I enjoyed how he was more than competent at his job, gave off a strong, commanding confidence that was tempered with his protective, sensual and fun side. Alexandra did pretty well when it came to the relationship stuff and she was a great detective partner for Dylan for the most part. She didn't take any of his attitude and she communicated well with him even when he pushed her away or doubted her. She had a few stupid moments where she got cocky because of her abilities, but if she didn't there wouldn't have been that really intense build-up scene to the big stuff at the end. My favorite character was George the Ghost. He was a crack up and he played a big role in the story.
The romance was spicy and fun, but the suspense part of the story was well-worked too. I had no idea who the killer was even with the clues throughout until probably about the time the author wanted me to start having suspicions in that direction. Even then, there was still a second villain that needed everyone of the characters working together to take it out.
I really enjoyed the paranormal romantic suspense that was spicy on the romance and tension-filled on the suspense and recommend it to others who enjoy stories that put things together this way too.
This is the second book in the series, but I had no trouble jumping in. There were references to the earlier story, but this second book was pretty self-contained as far as the main plot went. It only left me with a strong desire to go back and read the first book before continuing on with the next one.
Alexandra King is a psychic who is on a mission to find the estranged brother of her boss and attempt to get them to reconcile. The ghost of their mother won't leave her alone until she does. Alexandra arrives in Charleston, SC prepared to go on the hunt and her first night out she encounters a playful ghost and then accepts the company of a gorgeous flirty man. It's not until later that she discovers that her one night stand is none other than Nate's brother, Dylan, whom she was searching for. Unfortunately, she has to set aside the first mission because due to her psychic connections to ghosts she has encountered a more pressing issue. There's a serial killer in town with connections to something so dark that even ghosts fear it.
Dylan Collins, homicide detective, was just trying to enjoy some much needed down time away from his latest case when he encounters the spunky and pretty, Alexandra. They have a good time and he considers spending more time with her until he encounters her in his captain's office and learns she's volunteered to consult on his case as a psychic. He despises that set of phonies, but he has no choice. Slowly Alexandra's successes prove to him that she might just be the real thing. In the meantime, the killer makes it clear that his sights are now set on Alexandra and Dylan will have to learn to accept all that paranormal stuff and work with Alexandra if he wishes to save her and stop the killer.
The plot was engaging and the pace good. I loved both Alexandra and Dylan as narrators. Their characters were great. They had real chemistry between them, but I enjoyed how the relationship came along much more slowly as Dylan had to work through his issues when it came to psychics and the stuff from his past. Dylan will be a favorite cop hero. I enjoyed how he was more than competent at his job, gave off a strong, commanding confidence that was tempered with his protective, sensual and fun side. Alexandra did pretty well when it came to the relationship stuff and she was a great detective partner for Dylan for the most part. She didn't take any of his attitude and she communicated well with him even when he pushed her away or doubted her. She had a few stupid moments where she got cocky because of her abilities, but if she didn't there wouldn't have been that really intense build-up scene to the big stuff at the end. My favorite character was George the Ghost. He was a crack up and he played a big role in the story.
The romance was spicy and fun, but the suspense part of the story was well-worked too. I had no idea who the killer was even with the clues throughout until probably about the time the author wanted me to start having suspicions in that direction. Even then, there was still a second villain that needed everyone of the characters working together to take it out.
I really enjoyed the paranormal romantic suspense that was spicy on the romance and tension-filled on the suspense and recommend it to others who enjoy stories that put things together this way too.
November 2, 2013
3.5/5
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I did not know anything about the series or the author, but when I saw the second volume on NetGalley, I was quite tempted. Then in regard of the synopsis, I thought it was certainly not so problematic to start with the second novel, although I’m sure that we discover Hannah and Zach in the first one. Yet this book is not really about them and this one is about Zach’s younger brother: Dylan and Alexandra, a Zach’s employee and a friend of Hannah.
It’s been some time that the ghost of the Zach’s mother is begging Alexandra to find her second son to reunite them together. Finally capitulating to her demands, and with the help of her friend, in the back of her boss, our young heroine travels to Charleston to find a track to find Dylan. But when after a one-night stand with a guy she realizes that the man with whom she spent the night is none other than the person she looking for, Alexandra believes it will be an easy mission. If only it was like that… Yes because before telling him the reason for her presence, she decides she is going to get to know him first. And what better way than to participate in his investigation to find a serial killer who seems to hit in a strange way. When Dylan discovers that the young woman became entrenched in his investigation, he can only be suspicious, especially when the lady is known to be a psychic medium, something in which he does not believe. But then a link will be forged between them, and he has to admit that her gifts are not a lie and that she could help to discover the identity of the killer, if she does not become herself the target.
I loved this story and the investigation we follow throughout the chapters. It will take a little time to Alexandra and Dylan to accept one another, especially as the policeman is so skeptical, but it was really interesting to see their relationship evolving like that. We can feel the tension between them from the start, yet they both remain quite suspicious about the other. However, they form a perfect duo and a beautiful couple. Alexandra is determined but does not hesitate to confess her fears while Dylan is like a knight ready to do anything to save her. In terms of the plot, I admit I was really curious to find out who was the mysterious killer. He seems to know a lot of things about her, which means he must be pretty close to them, but we discover his identity at the end of the novel. And I confess that I was really surprised, I did not expect this character. The survey was well done from the beginning to the end of the story, and we remain focused on the mystery that our heroes are trying to decipher. But of course there is much more, and we discover a few more things about the past of Dylan and Zach and the difficulties they had to endure while they were younger. As you can see there are many things happening in this novel, but I’ll leave you the chance to experience it all.
A good plot, an investigation fun to follow, all mixed with magic; it’s a nice discovery. I think I’ll have to try now the first volume.
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I did not know anything about the series or the author, but when I saw the second volume on NetGalley, I was quite tempted. Then in regard of the synopsis, I thought it was certainly not so problematic to start with the second novel, although I’m sure that we discover Hannah and Zach in the first one. Yet this book is not really about them and this one is about Zach’s younger brother: Dylan and Alexandra, a Zach’s employee and a friend of Hannah.
It’s been some time that the ghost of the Zach’s mother is begging Alexandra to find her second son to reunite them together. Finally capitulating to her demands, and with the help of her friend, in the back of her boss, our young heroine travels to Charleston to find a track to find Dylan. But when after a one-night stand with a guy she realizes that the man with whom she spent the night is none other than the person she looking for, Alexandra believes it will be an easy mission. If only it was like that… Yes because before telling him the reason for her presence, she decides she is going to get to know him first. And what better way than to participate in his investigation to find a serial killer who seems to hit in a strange way. When Dylan discovers that the young woman became entrenched in his investigation, he can only be suspicious, especially when the lady is known to be a psychic medium, something in which he does not believe. But then a link will be forged between them, and he has to admit that her gifts are not a lie and that she could help to discover the identity of the killer, if she does not become herself the target.
I loved this story and the investigation we follow throughout the chapters. It will take a little time to Alexandra and Dylan to accept one another, especially as the policeman is so skeptical, but it was really interesting to see their relationship evolving like that. We can feel the tension between them from the start, yet they both remain quite suspicious about the other. However, they form a perfect duo and a beautiful couple. Alexandra is determined but does not hesitate to confess her fears while Dylan is like a knight ready to do anything to save her. In terms of the plot, I admit I was really curious to find out who was the mysterious killer. He seems to know a lot of things about her, which means he must be pretty close to them, but we discover his identity at the end of the novel. And I confess that I was really surprised, I did not expect this character. The survey was well done from the beginning to the end of the story, and we remain focused on the mystery that our heroes are trying to decipher. But of course there is much more, and we discover a few more things about the past of Dylan and Zach and the difficulties they had to endure while they were younger. As you can see there are many things happening in this novel, but I’ll leave you the chance to experience it all.
A good plot, an investigation fun to follow, all mixed with magic; it’s a nice discovery. I think I’ll have to try now the first volume.
November 24, 2013
“Of all the men to fall into bed with her first night in town, of course he would turn out to be a cop and Zach’s brother.”–Alexandra’s thoughts
Alexandra finally caves and goes to Charleston to find and convince Dylan to come back and give his brother Zach a chance to get to know him. She’s sent by the brothers’ mom. Their dead mom’s ghost, that is. As a medium, she’s used to getting badgered by ghosts and since Zach’s her boss and friend, she’s killing two birds with one stone. Oh, ‘killing’ may be a bad choice of word since a serial killer’s lose and has Alexandra in his sights, and the cop assigned to the case doesn’t believe in psychics–and is also Dylan, her one-night stand…
“So her biggest fan was a total nut job serial killer?”–Alexandra’s thoughts
I loved this book! If you like ghost stories, this one is for you! This is the second book in the series, and there’s enough information that you’ll be fine if you haven’t read book one although if you have, then you’ll enjoy the references to the previous characters. What surprised me is that this book felt so different from the first book, which had much more humor in it, and yet I very much enjoyed both of them and appreciate the author’s range! This one felt more like a great paranormal/horror story with romantic elements rather than a romantic suspense as billed.
Unlike the first book, I loved the heroine and not the hero as much, but that could be because in Something Wicked, the heroine is the one with paranormal abilities and the hero the skeptic. We really get to know Alexandra and her abilities as a psychic medium while Dylan’s not as interesting (how can you compete with someone who talks to ghosts?). Ghosts play a huge role in this book (one is a great secondary character that I wish could somehow get his own story), and I love the mythology/background that the author uses to explain mediums’ role in the grand scheme of things and how ghosts can change over time. There was so much tension and suspense since not only does Alexandra have to deal with supernatural malevolent forces, there’s also a mortal villain who seems to always be one step ahead of the cops.
There is romantic tension, too, jump-started by a one-night stand encounter at the very start (which I actually wasn’t a fan of since it seemed out-of-character for both of them) and followed by the intense attraction between them (around medium heat level with few love scenes since the serial killer/malevolent entity story lines took center stage) despite Dylan’s distrust/disbelief of psychics, let alone ghosts.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and thought the ghost and serial killer plot was fantastic! It was like watching a scary movie where there were scenes that gave you chills, and Alexandra was a heroine that I could not help but root for! She’s such a giving and selfless person that I was cheering for her to beat the bad guys and find her happily ever after with Dylan. This is a 5 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a review copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
Alexandra finally caves and goes to Charleston to find and convince Dylan to come back and give his brother Zach a chance to get to know him. She’s sent by the brothers’ mom. Their dead mom’s ghost, that is. As a medium, she’s used to getting badgered by ghosts and since Zach’s her boss and friend, she’s killing two birds with one stone. Oh, ‘killing’ may be a bad choice of word since a serial killer’s lose and has Alexandra in his sights, and the cop assigned to the case doesn’t believe in psychics–and is also Dylan, her one-night stand…
“So her biggest fan was a total nut job serial killer?”–Alexandra’s thoughts
I loved this book! If you like ghost stories, this one is for you! This is the second book in the series, and there’s enough information that you’ll be fine if you haven’t read book one although if you have, then you’ll enjoy the references to the previous characters. What surprised me is that this book felt so different from the first book, which had much more humor in it, and yet I very much enjoyed both of them and appreciate the author’s range! This one felt more like a great paranormal/horror story with romantic elements rather than a romantic suspense as billed.
Unlike the first book, I loved the heroine and not the hero as much, but that could be because in Something Wicked, the heroine is the one with paranormal abilities and the hero the skeptic. We really get to know Alexandra and her abilities as a psychic medium while Dylan’s not as interesting (how can you compete with someone who talks to ghosts?). Ghosts play a huge role in this book (one is a great secondary character that I wish could somehow get his own story), and I love the mythology/background that the author uses to explain mediums’ role in the grand scheme of things and how ghosts can change over time. There was so much tension and suspense since not only does Alexandra have to deal with supernatural malevolent forces, there’s also a mortal villain who seems to always be one step ahead of the cops.
There is romantic tension, too, jump-started by a one-night stand encounter at the very start (which I actually wasn’t a fan of since it seemed out-of-character for both of them) and followed by the intense attraction between them (around medium heat level with few love scenes since the serial killer/malevolent entity story lines took center stage) despite Dylan’s distrust/disbelief of psychics, let alone ghosts.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and thought the ghost and serial killer plot was fantastic! It was like watching a scary movie where there were scenes that gave you chills, and Alexandra was a heroine that I could not help but root for! She’s such a giving and selfless person that I was cheering for her to beat the bad guys and find her happily ever after with Dylan. This is a 5 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a review copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
November 24, 2013
Originally posted at The Solitary Bookworm
There’s really no telling how to determine a psychic medium with true abilities. Alexandra King has her stories to share in this department. With all the impersonators running around and doing their theatrics – you can expect that Alexandra King is the real deal. Her abilities as a psychic not only helps her career but it is her life. Recently employed by her good friend Zach, Alexandra is on a mission to find Zach’s missing brother but ends up with something far from her expectations and more.
Reading On The Scent, which was the first book in the series, was so different from Something Wicked. Asides the fact that the main character were both psychic – there wasn’t much similarities between the two but the story line does continue with a different focus. On The Scent was a cute and light read Something Wicked on the other hand was more thrilling. Something Wicked is Alexandra and Dylan’s story line and although there is a focus in the romance department, Something Wicked has an explosive and amazing story (serial killing+ghosts) that readers will enjoy. The romance is also not cutesy stuff, I have to emphasize on that, but the “mature sexy sophisticated” kind. Steamy at some point too! Watch out for those.
I don’t know what it is but I love reading Something Wicked more than I did with the first book. Both are equally good but Something Wicked is better in my opinion. Alexandra is really an awesome woman and has a fabulous character that exudes confidence. She is one tough cookie but she does show her delicate side once in a while. Dylan on the other hand matches the hotness and confidence of Alexandra making them a strong and dynamic combination that elevated the story – they have chemistry and I believed the attraction. Another note that I would like to add is that although Something Wicked CAN be read as a stand alone, I advice you to still read On The Scent just to get acquainted with Hannah and Zach. You’ll enjoy the story better.
Something Wicked is a great pick if you want to read something fast paced with an interesting story that doesn’t only focus on one angle. Something Wicked is a story that highlights more on characters than the plot so I can guarantee you that you will never read a story with flat characters. Campbell also writes does not write with unnecessary flourish and I say that in a good way. She doesn’t need fillers or any tactic with her work because she knows she has a story and she has the talent to deliver. In addition, her works exceeds a readers expectation as what it did to me so yey for an amazing author. Something Wicked may not be as booming and spectacular as some highly praised books but it is a damn good book so grab a copy! Enjoy.
There’s really no telling how to determine a psychic medium with true abilities. Alexandra King has her stories to share in this department. With all the impersonators running around and doing their theatrics – you can expect that Alexandra King is the real deal. Her abilities as a psychic not only helps her career but it is her life. Recently employed by her good friend Zach, Alexandra is on a mission to find Zach’s missing brother but ends up with something far from her expectations and more.
Reading On The Scent, which was the first book in the series, was so different from Something Wicked. Asides the fact that the main character were both psychic – there wasn’t much similarities between the two but the story line does continue with a different focus. On The Scent was a cute and light read Something Wicked on the other hand was more thrilling. Something Wicked is Alexandra and Dylan’s story line and although there is a focus in the romance department, Something Wicked has an explosive and amazing story (serial killing+ghosts) that readers will enjoy. The romance is also not cutesy stuff, I have to emphasize on that, but the “mature sexy sophisticated” kind. Steamy at some point too! Watch out for those.
I don’t know what it is but I love reading Something Wicked more than I did with the first book. Both are equally good but Something Wicked is better in my opinion. Alexandra is really an awesome woman and has a fabulous character that exudes confidence. She is one tough cookie but she does show her delicate side once in a while. Dylan on the other hand matches the hotness and confidence of Alexandra making them a strong and dynamic combination that elevated the story – they have chemistry and I believed the attraction. Another note that I would like to add is that although Something Wicked CAN be read as a stand alone, I advice you to still read On The Scent just to get acquainted with Hannah and Zach. You’ll enjoy the story better.
Something Wicked is a great pick if you want to read something fast paced with an interesting story that doesn’t only focus on one angle. Something Wicked is a story that highlights more on characters than the plot so I can guarantee you that you will never read a story with flat characters. Campbell also writes does not write with unnecessary flourish and I say that in a good way. She doesn’t need fillers or any tactic with her work because she knows she has a story and she has the talent to deliver. In addition, her works exceeds a readers expectation as what it did to me so yey for an amazing author. Something Wicked may not be as booming and spectacular as some highly praised books but it is a damn good book so grab a copy! Enjoy.
October 30, 2013
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'Something Wicked' the second book in Angela Campbell's psychic detective series is darker but still includes a strong romance and plenty of the delightful humour which characterised the first book in the series 'On the Scent'.
The characters are engaging. Alexandra is independent but vulnerable in ways not immediately obvious to Dylan or the reader. Dylan is alpha but full of contradictions which make him likeable. As the animals were the stars in 'On the Scent' it is Charleston's ghosts who make this an enchanting read even for skeptics.
Strong-minded psychic medium Alexandra pursues Dylan Collins estranged brother of Zach her boss in Charleston at the behest Rebecca their dead mother. Charleston's numerous ghosts exhaust Alexandra with their multiple demands. The local bar famed for its ghosts witnesses a serendipitous meeting between Alexandra and Dylan set up by the mischievous resident ghost. The sexual tension is red hot.
Dylan Collins a successful homicide detective has cut his older brother from his life. On the trail of a suspected serial killer Dylan discovers Alexandra is the psychic consult on the case after she supplies vital evidence on the latest murder. A psychic skeptic Dylan pushes Alexandra away.
The plot is complex and fast paced. Alexandra realises she is on the serial killer's hit list. Dark paranormal forces stalk Alexandra which creates a nail-biting climax to the story. Plausibly written 'Something Wicked' has elements of a paranormal psychological thriller without the graphic blood and gore.
The anticipated reconciliation between the brothers contributes to a satisfying conclusion as does the happy for now ending for Alexandra and Dylan.
I'm hooked on the series and its characters.
I received an ARC from Harper Collins UK HarperImpulse via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
On the Scent
Angela Campbell
November 18, 2013
My thoughts are… AMAZING!
I absolutely loved Something Wicked. I loved the characters, the plot, the supernatural aspect, everything. I have nothing I would change or add, it was just awesome!
We start with Alexandra going to Charleston just to help reunite her boss with his brother because they are breaking their mama’s heart, mind you, she is dead, the mama, not Alexandra. She has a drink sent to her by this sexy guy playing pool and bada bing bada boom – chemistry.
I love books that have a paranormal aspect to them, and paranormal romances are my fave form of romance. Angela does not fail. She brings it all with the ghosts (and more), sexy police detectives, psychics, romance, different angles to the ghost phenomenon (what happens to them, etc), loved. I didn’t even hazard to guess who did it until close to the end and that is unusual for me. Usually I am trying to guess who did it in the first few chapters. 263 pages flew by. Flew by. I sat down to read and before I knew it I was done.
It was just that good.
I loved it. This is going on my book boyfriend shelf, which just doesn’t sound mature enough for Dylan Collins, and my girl crush shelf (I think I want to be Alexandra). I need the first book in this series and the next book (which there is a preview of at the back of Something Wicked, I loved how that one started already). This is a good week for me, after what seems like a very long time of not adding anyone, two authors have been added to my favorite author list, Angela Campbell being one of them.
5 stars. It rocked. I am so glad I was able to be part of this tour!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely loved Something Wicked. I loved the characters, the plot, the supernatural aspect, everything. I have nothing I would change or add, it was just awesome!
We start with Alexandra going to Charleston just to help reunite her boss with his brother because they are breaking their mama’s heart, mind you, she is dead, the mama, not Alexandra. She has a drink sent to her by this sexy guy playing pool and bada bing bada boom – chemistry.
Photo Credit
I am coloring Jensen Ackles my Dylan
I love books that have a paranormal aspect to them, and paranormal romances are my fave form of romance. Angela does not fail. She brings it all with the ghosts (and more), sexy police detectives, psychics, romance, different angles to the ghost phenomenon (what happens to them, etc), loved. I didn’t even hazard to guess who did it until close to the end and that is unusual for me. Usually I am trying to guess who did it in the first few chapters. 263 pages flew by. Flew by. I sat down to read and before I knew it I was done.
Purple dress… I’m mad at you… wha?
He didn’t really say that.
It was just that good.
I loved it. This is going on my book boyfriend shelf, which just doesn’t sound mature enough for Dylan Collins, and my girl crush shelf (I think I want to be Alexandra). I need the first book in this series and the next book (which there is a preview of at the back of Something Wicked, I loved how that one started already). This is a good week for me, after what seems like a very long time of not adding anyone, two authors have been added to my favorite author list, Angela Campbell being one of them.
5 stars. It rocked. I am so glad I was able to be part of this tour!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2015
This is my second Angela Campbell book and my first book was the third in this series. I seem to be reading them backwards, but the third went on sale first and I snagged it. When I enjoyed it a lot I snagged this one the second I saw it go on sale. Even though there are overlapping characters in the series you can read out of order as I have done and not feel lost or that you're missing anything important.
Just like the third book in the series, this is a book that sort of crosses genres. It is mystery/romantic suspense with paranormal elements. Now that I've read two by this author I have noticed something. She might use tropes or character types that aren't my favorite but she puts it together in a way that I still really enjoy the books. So far the author is batting 100% for strong female leads. This is wildly important to how I enjoy a book so I am pleased that her heroines are strong, capable, likable women who have realistic flaws and feel well fleshed out. She does a good job with developing her characters, which is another aspect that has made these two books good fits for my tastes.
I will note that there were more loose ends at the finale of this book then in book. I thought book 3 was more tightly plotted and without any plot holes or issues. This books isn't quite as strong in those aspects but still completely enjoyable. It does have explicit sex scenes for those sensitive to that. I am fine with those scenes but since I am really picky about expressions, euphemisms and the way things are described I often skim the ones that aren't written to my preference. I don't consider that a big deal.
I'll continue to work backwards and read the first one. I'll be looking forward to the fourth in the series that she is writing as well.
Just like the third book in the series, this is a book that sort of crosses genres. It is mystery/romantic suspense with paranormal elements. Now that I've read two by this author I have noticed something. She might use tropes or character types that aren't my favorite but she puts it together in a way that I still really enjoy the books. So far the author is batting 100% for strong female leads. This is wildly important to how I enjoy a book so I am pleased that her heroines are strong, capable, likable women who have realistic flaws and feel well fleshed out. She does a good job with developing her characters, which is another aspect that has made these two books good fits for my tastes.
I will note that there were more loose ends at the finale of this book then in book. I thought book 3 was more tightly plotted and without any plot holes or issues. This books isn't quite as strong in those aspects but still completely enjoyable. It does have explicit sex scenes for those sensitive to that. I am fine with those scenes but since I am really picky about expressions, euphemisms and the way things are described I often skim the ones that aren't written to my preference. I don't consider that a big deal.
I'll continue to work backwards and read the first one. I'll be looking forward to the fourth in the series that she is writing as well.
December 14, 2013
An unanticipated hookup between two lonely people gave them both a pleasurable night, but the next day identities and occupations are revealed causing lots of tension and mistrust.
Working together to find a rabid serial killer who calls himself The Grim Reaper, homicide detective Dylan Collins and psychic medium Alexandra King must put aside their personal feelings in order to get the job done. Alexandra has even bigger secrets that soon threaten to undermine the shaky trust that develops over the next several days between the duo.
I really enjoyed this well-written paranormal mystery. A fan of the old TV series Medium, I had no trouble accepting Alexandra’s special gifts. I loved her character, her determination to use her talents to assist in a police investigation regardless of the skeptics and nay-sayers surrounding her. She is a likable person, not brash or overbearing, who resolutely stands strong in the face of adversity. I liked Dylan well enough but did get a little tired of his unceasing whining about a traumatic past experience. He had more difficulty finally making peace with certain past events than I thought was warranted, but that is just my opinion. I did like the chemistry that was constantly present between him and Alexandra, and I was happy that their relationship and respect for each other kept getting stronger even as they met obstacles to their case and to their personal relationship with grit and valor.
This book was given to me by the author or publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
Working together to find a rabid serial killer who calls himself The Grim Reaper, homicide detective Dylan Collins and psychic medium Alexandra King must put aside their personal feelings in order to get the job done. Alexandra has even bigger secrets that soon threaten to undermine the shaky trust that develops over the next several days between the duo.
I really enjoyed this well-written paranormal mystery. A fan of the old TV series Medium, I had no trouble accepting Alexandra’s special gifts. I loved her character, her determination to use her talents to assist in a police investigation regardless of the skeptics and nay-sayers surrounding her. She is a likable person, not brash or overbearing, who resolutely stands strong in the face of adversity. I liked Dylan well enough but did get a little tired of his unceasing whining about a traumatic past experience. He had more difficulty finally making peace with certain past events than I thought was warranted, but that is just my opinion. I did like the chemistry that was constantly present between him and Alexandra, and I was happy that their relationship and respect for each other kept getting stronger even as they met obstacles to their case and to their personal relationship with grit and valor.
This book was given to me by the author or publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
October 22, 2013
With a cover like this I had to read the book, and I was not let down, Alexandra I loved her she was such an interesting character, "every time Alexandra lowered her guard, oh look, there was Rebecca Collins again, harping about her sons. Zachary this. Dylan that. Nag, nag, nag." Dylan that sly dog (winks) he had some tricks up his sleeve, "he nuzzled his mouth close to her ear. "Making sure you don't cheat. Got a problem with that?" Judging but the way she wiggled her backside against him, he didn't think so." At the worst times Alexandra's mind drifts to naughty thoughts and I found that funny, "whoa, girl. Keep your mind on the matter at hand, and not on her, er, weapon." Alexandra she's curious one always likes to sneak a peak at Dylan when not looking, "Alexandra lifted her eyebrows and smiled as she cast a slow glance over his naked parts not covered by the sheets." I really would like Reedus (think I spelled his name right) story, he was another character I fell in love with.
November 7, 2013
Campbell delivers another fun read with Something Wicked! If you enjoyed On The Scent this is the perfect 'sequel' of sorts.
We meet Alexandra King again in this book and she is on the hunt for Dylan Collins (Zach's brother from On The Scent). Through a few chances of coincidence you can see coming she meets Dylan well before she means to and they end up working together on the case.
Campbell does a stellar job at describing what I imagine things would be if psychic mediums were real. What they would experience and more. It felt believable including how the characters often reacted to the idea of someone having those abilities.
I have no real issues with this book I enjoyed reading it a lot. Super fun and engaging. Campbell really has a great writing style that draws the reader in quickly.
I highly recommend picking up this book if you want a fun read with lots of scary twists.
We meet Alexandra King again in this book and she is on the hunt for Dylan Collins (Zach's brother from On The Scent). Through a few chances of coincidence you can see coming she meets Dylan well before she means to and they end up working together on the case.
Campbell does a stellar job at describing what I imagine things would be if psychic mediums were real. What they would experience and more. It felt believable including how the characters often reacted to the idea of someone having those abilities.
I have no real issues with this book I enjoyed reading it a lot. Super fun and engaging. Campbell really has a great writing style that draws the reader in quickly.
I highly recommend picking up this book if you want a fun read with lots of scary twists.
November 20, 2013
Psychic medium, Alexandra, is in Charleston at the request of a ghost who wants to reunite her estranged sons. When a serial killer starts recreating famous ghost killings, Alexandra gets pulled into the investigation. Cop, Dylan, is skeptical but attraction flares... Likeable characters and some chilling moments.
Quibble: One of the things I like about new-style paranormal romance and urban fantasy is that both main characters are already immersed in a fantastical world so we don't have to go through the whole song and a dance of one character convincing the other that ghosts/vamps/demons/etc are real. In real life, yes, a cop like Dylan would ABSOLUTELY be skeptical of a psychic, but in a PNR I found it annoying simply because, I, the reader knew Alexandra was genuine from her POV sections. Many readers would probably find it annoying and unrealistic if Dylan had accepted her powers without skepticism so regard this as a personal peeve.
Quibble: One of the things I like about new-style paranormal romance and urban fantasy is that both main characters are already immersed in a fantastical world so we don't have to go through the whole song and a dance of one character convincing the other that ghosts/vamps/demons/etc are real. In real life, yes, a cop like Dylan would ABSOLUTELY be skeptical of a psychic, but in a PNR I found it annoying simply because, I, the reader knew Alexandra was genuine from her POV sections. Many readers would probably find it annoying and unrealistic if Dylan had accepted her powers without skepticism so regard this as a personal peeve.
May 17, 2014
This was a pretty amazing read. I haven't read the first novel in the series, but I can't wait for more from this author!
Talk about don't judge a book by its cover - that's definitely what I've been doing lately because c'mon have you all SEEN the covers lately?
The writing was so much better than I thought it was but for some strange reason I couldn't really get the chemistry of those two - I actually skipped all the smex scenes because I was more interested in the plot. Maybe it's just me, but I didn't feel the chemistry between the two.
The ghosts were interesting, the story was suspenseful and I liked it overall. Not sure if I'll re-read, but definitely be keeping an eye out on this author!
Talk about don't judge a book by its cover - that's definitely what I've been doing lately because c'mon have you all SEEN the covers lately?
The writing was so much better than I thought it was but for some strange reason I couldn't really get the chemistry of those two - I actually skipped all the smex scenes because I was more interested in the plot. Maybe it's just me, but I didn't feel the chemistry between the two.
The ghosts were interesting, the story was suspenseful and I liked it overall. Not sure if I'll re-read, but definitely be keeping an eye out on this author!
January 9, 2016
Very Wicked!
This is the second book in the Psychic Detectives series. While I thoroughly enjoyed book 1, On the Scent, this second outing is even better. This time around Zach Collin's partner, Alexandra King, heads down to Charleston, SC to find Zach's estranged brother Dylan. When she does track him down sparks fly in every direction. The two find themselves bound together to track down & stop an evil entity before it can kill it's next victim. The sex was steamy & the evil was scary without being too dark. There was quite a bit of flirty banter & humorous interludes, especially between Alexandra & George, to balance out the story quite nicely. This is definitely a paranormal mystery not to miss!
This is the second book in the Psychic Detectives series. While I thoroughly enjoyed book 1, On the Scent, this second outing is even better. This time around Zach Collin's partner, Alexandra King, heads down to Charleston, SC to find Zach's estranged brother Dylan. When she does track him down sparks fly in every direction. The two find themselves bound together to track down & stop an evil entity before it can kill it's next victim. The sex was steamy & the evil was scary without being too dark. There was quite a bit of flirty banter & humorous interludes, especially between Alexandra & George, to balance out the story quite nicely. This is definitely a paranormal mystery not to miss!
September 4, 2014
5 star
This book has a little bit of everything – a little paranormal, mystery, humor, and twists and turns.
What happens when your super sexy one-night stand happens to think Psychics are a waste of time? Too bad that Alexandra falls into the category. Dylan thinks psychics are con-artists. Can Alexandra prove him wrong? On top of everything if Alex does not reunite Zach and Dylan there mother will keep continuing to haunt her.
As they get close to figuring out the crimes will her secret rip it all apart? Or will Alex be able to help solve the crimes and still bring the brothers together in the end?
I recommend this story. Can’t wait to read more of this series.
This book has a little bit of everything – a little paranormal, mystery, humor, and twists and turns.
What happens when your super sexy one-night stand happens to think Psychics are a waste of time? Too bad that Alexandra falls into the category. Dylan thinks psychics are con-artists. Can Alexandra prove him wrong? On top of everything if Alex does not reunite Zach and Dylan there mother will keep continuing to haunt her.
As they get close to figuring out the crimes will her secret rip it all apart? Or will Alex be able to help solve the crimes and still bring the brothers together in the end?
I recommend this story. Can’t wait to read more of this series.
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