Whispers in the Attic

Magical Papillon Mysteries #1

by Sabine Frisch

From the BookLife Fiction Prize Semi-Finalist author comes the first in the new Magical Papillon Mysteries series.

Unravel the mysteries hidden within the shadows of a quaint Victorian house in Whispers in the Attic. Join Sarah, a determined single mother, and her children, Emma and Cory, as they embark on a spine-tingling adventure fueled by secrets, magic, and unexpected joy in this cozy mystery.

When the Anderson family moves into their new home in the picturesque village of Rosewood Hollow, they discover more than just creaky floorboards and old wallpaper. With the arrival of Pixie, their magical Papillon dog, they uncover a world of enchantment lurking in the attic's shadows. With the help of her new friend, Lily, and charismatic local historian, Matthew, they delve into the secrets of the past and forge a connection that transcends time.

Join them in this small New England town harboring old secrets, strange activities, and...Whispers in the Attic.

This book is for you if you
• mysteries set in small towns
• a ghost in the house
• a whimsical papillon dog
• paranormal women’s fiction
• a dose of romance and humor along the way

Genres: Mystery, Fiction

262 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 15, 2024

About the author

I can’t remember a time in my life when I haven’t been writing and making stuff up - much to the dismay of my parents who called it 'lying'. I’ve had the great fortune of living in many different countries in the world - my native Europe, South East Asia and Canada - and all of the experiences and impressions I have seen find their way into my stories. And let’s face it, my friends were getting somewhat tired of my endless tales! I am impatient, intense and thorough.
I grew up in a little town in Germany, the kind of town nobody leaves because no one can see that far. I don’t have many hobbies beyond digital art, reading and making stuff up. I’ve spent my life reading books, analyzing and writing them by day and night. I love sitting in my sun room, looking out over the lake Ontario, reading, wondering how I would have written that story.
I like beer. Bavarian beer you’ve likely never heard of. I also like jumping out of perfectly good airplanes - I usually bring a parachute.

Reviews

[Linden · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sarah has just moved into an old Victorian house with her two kids after divorcing her cheating, unpleasant husband. She has adopted an adorable papillon, Pixie, to keep the kids company, and is shocked to learn that Pixie communicates with her telepathically. Pixie senses that there is an unhappy ghost residing in their home. With the help of new friends, bookstore owner Lily and historian Matthew, the family learns more about the ghost, Amelia, what caused her death, and why there are still people around who will stop at nothing to uncover the house's secrets. Three and a half stars.

[Zoey Codrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Whispers in the Attic: A Magical Papillon Mystery" by Sabine Frisch is a dazzling tapestry interwoven with enchanted threads of intrigue and emotion. From its opening lines, the reader is drawn into a world where every shadow holds a secret and every flicker of light seems to dance with magic. Frisch's ability to craft a narrative that feels both otherworldly and intimately personal is nothing short of mesmerizing. The setting itself feels like a character, with the attic whispering tales that echo long after the last page is left unturned.

The heart of "Whispers in the Attic" beats with relatable characters whose arcs are painted with complex emotions and rich backstories. As readers navigate the twists and turns of the story, each character unfolds like a rare flower, revealing vulnerabilities and strengths that resonate with authenticity. Frisch writes with an empathy that makes the journey of each character feel like our own, offering insights into the human condition while maintaining a sense of magical enchantment.

The plot leaps forward with the cadence of a heartbeat, rhythmic and alive, never allowing the reader a moment's pause. It is a tale that refuses to let go, with moments of suspense that make time itself seem to stand still, enticing readers to lean in closer to hear every whisper. Sabine Frisch has mastered the art of momentum, ensuring that even the smallest details feel like vital pieces of an intricate puzzle. Her narrative weaves effortlessly through tension and tenderness, coaxing readers into a world of imagination and wonder.

With "Whispers in the Attic," Frisch explores themes of discovery, transformation, and the power of unseen forces that influence the world around us. The attic serves as a perfect metaphor for the mind's hidden recesses, where forgotten memories and untapped potential reside. It is a place where the ordinary and extraordinary converge, inviting readers to ponder their own mysteries and the whispers they might hold. Without offering spoilers, it suffices to say that the book encourages a deeper reflection on one’s own life and the mysteries that dwell within the crevices of everyday existence.

Sabine Frisch's "Whispers in the Attic" merits a 5 out of 5-star rating for its ability to captivate the senses and stir the soul. It stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and transformative magic of literature. Rich with emotion and layered with mystery, this novel is a literary kaleidoscope that leaves readers eagerly anticipating more. The spellbinding page-turner not only enchants but enriches and is truly a masterpiece of its genre.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an interesting book with a unique plot and mystery. I enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.


Amazon synopsis:
Unravel the mysteries hidden within the shadows of a quaint Victorian house in Whispers in the Attic. Join Sarah, a determined single mother, and her children, Emma and Cory, as they embark on a spine-tingling adventure fueled by secrets, magic, and unexpected joy in this cozy mystery.

When the Anderson family moves into their new home in the picturesque village of Rosewood Hollow, they discover more than just creaky floorboards and old wallpaper. With the arrival of Pixie, their magical Papillon dog, they uncover a world of enchantment lurking in the attic's shadows. With the help of her new friend, Lily, and charismatic local historian, Matthew, they delve into the secrets of the past and forge a connection that transcends time.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

New writer and series for me. Pretty standard premise for a cozy mystery. I was not expecting as much paranormal as was in the story, but I like that genre and enjoyed it. Single mom with 2 kids after a slightly contentious and unexpected divorce. Fmc moves the family to a small town to get a new life. Finds new friends, a potential new love interest, a new dog, and a great historic Victorian house. Oh yes, an old mystery, a ghost, the dog talks, and previously unknown powers. Cute overall and I will try the next book. A few editing issues that will hopefully work themselves out as the series progresses.

[Uma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic, enthralling story!

It has everything! A divorced woman trying to find a new life in a little town with her two children and a new Papilloma dog Pixie finds strength, stamina, resilience to infuse love, strength, encouragement to her children, dog , friend Lily and her new friend Katelyn not forgetting her special friend Mathew!

A beautiful tale of courage and all things positive! Thank you, Sabine!!!

[Gertrud Meister · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing and delightful book this was!!! Sarah Anderson, a super strong single mom moves to an old Victorian House in a small town. She adopts a beautiful little papillon dog --- and things start to happen. A ghost claiming the space, an ancient mystery and sarah's ex (who is a real jerk!!!) Pixie of course is the star of this story. If you are looking for a delightful cozy mystery with a few paranormal elements - you have found it. Great, great read!

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great cozy mystery.

I really enjoyed reading this magical Papillon mystery. It was fun meeting Sarah, her kids (Cory & Emma), her friends (Matthew & Lily), Amelia (the ghost) & of course, Pixie (the magical Papillon) & how they solved the mystery. I hope more books will be coming out soon. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy magical mysteries.

[Erin Hayden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Scene Work/Engaging Characters

I don’t typically read fantasy/ghost stories, but this was a fun read. The dog is quite endearing and character development is good for not just the main character but supporting characters. The house sounds so charming—perfect setting for a cozy mystery.

[Naomi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Entertaining

Enjoyed the mystery and humor. But this book held so many mistakes that it was a bit annoying. Putting characters in 2 different places at the same time, saying "he" when it should have been "she." This book was enjoyable for the most part but could have done with better proofreading.

[M.L. Dunker · Rating 5 out of 5]

sweet cozy mystery

I like cozy mysteries as a quick break from heavier reading and this one filled the space admirably. Add magic, a dog, and a ghost with a happy ending, and you’ve got a delightful story to pass a couple of hours. Enjoy!

[Lynne Donnelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read!!

I really liked this book. Strong characters!
Magic and secrets! A woman who finds her power and her destiny with her children.
I zipped thru this and can't wait for the next one!!! 😀😀😀

[Kristin Carmack · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic Story

I couldn't put it down. This book has a little bit of everything. It's a fictional story that has so much real life to it. Sure there is the paranormal, but underneath is the story of finding ones self. Excellent read!

[J.B. Lyght · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magical Mystery

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a quick and easy read but the story kept my interest and I didn't want to put it down. A great combination of romance, friendship, mystery and the strength that you can find in yourself after a broken marriage.

[Princesspint · Rating 4 out of 5]

Started reading 📚 this book because I thought the cover was cute and needed it for a bingo prompt challenge. I enjoyed the cozy mystery {even though I'm not a cozy book kinda girl}. New to me author.

[Marilyn Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

GREAT BOOK!!

I enjoyed this so much. It has magic, problems to solve. Resolve to grow in strength, respect! I want another one like it!

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Entertaining

Mystery and magic combined with the paranormal make this an intriguing story. Will a murder committed hundred plus years ago be solved?

[Elrica Francisca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartwarming

Heartwarming story of a small broken family, an unsolved mystery with a strange new dog. Great story if you love a good mystery.

[Ella Deneau · Rating 5 out of 5]

mystical magical mystery

I loved it, it was a fun read, the heroine came in to her own and that was fun to watch also

[Jan Eriksen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very intriguing book of a little dog, a little haunting, and a little...(you have to read to find out)

[sue naegely · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book!!!

I really enjoyed this book it was fast moving and kept you guessing what would happen next. Well worth reading if you like exciting stories

[Andrea Latham]

Also narrated by Sabine Frisch

[Mookie · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cozy mystery with a dash of adorable Papillon cuteness (which somehow led me down the rabbit hole of considering adopting a Papillon... but I digress).

This genre isn't my usual cup of tea, but my attention was captured and I became very interested in this single woman starting fresh with her two kids and this suspiciously-knowing new pup.

I received an advance review copy for free from Booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[June Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's something about Pixie. She's magical. I've known a few papillions and they are spunky, feisty, little balls of fluff and attitude. Their feathery ears alone give warning that there is something magical about them. But, Pixie IS magical. Adopted from the shelter by new homeowner Sarah Anderson to help her children adjust to their new home and her divorce, Sarah knew it'd be love at first sight. What she didn't expect was the little dog revealing a hidden door and staircase. Nor did she expect the frightening mystery that discovery would release. Why are doors slamming? Why is it thundering outside when the sky is clear everywhere.... well, except for that cloud hovering over her home?

Quite frankly, I had no clue what to expect when I got this book. I was drawn in by that adorable cover, remembering with a smile the papillion dogs I've known. Oh, those butterfly like ears. Don't let that sweet face deceive you, though. There's far more to Pixie than feathery ears and a smile that would melt butter. But, well, I won't explain how she came by those powers, but Pixie has powers beyond the mere canine. Heck, Sarah's son's already excellent basketball skills seem to have improved dramatically since an arrogant school mate mocked Pixie.

I won't detail the plot further except to say it does get intense. You'll be cheering Sarah by the end and maybe holding back tears. Once a doormat, largely bossed around by her ex-husband, who you'll love to hate, Sarah digs deep and finds herself in the process. And, hey, that historian dude isn't the old guy she was expecting, either. Will they be able to help the ghost? Do they WANT to help the ghost? What mysterious group seems to be intent on finding....something? Since Sarah doesn't know what that wanted item is, how will she know if she finds it? Will her new friends decide she's nuts because she talks to the dog? How did Pixie gain her power anyway? Or, is it....nope, not saying anymore except for you'll be cheering Sarah and the rest at the end. Thanks #BookSirens and author #SabineFrisch for allowing me this early peek at Sarah and Pixie's magical, albeit dangerous world. I'm already looking forward to the next adventure.

[Kay Cobbold · Rating 5 out of 5]

A marriage break up; a move to a new town with the children; new friends and neighbours; a new dog, the gorgeous Pixie, and a new possible romance. What could go wrong? Add a resident ghost; a missing crystal of great importance and power; a dog who communicates telepathically, and danger from an old secret order. Sarah has more than enough to contend with, including the fact that she has her own previously unknown powers. The story is told from Sarah‘s perspective and, very quickly, I wanted the family to settle well into their new lives. It was lovely to see Emma blossom and for Cory to learn to relax and trust a male adult, and Matthew, more than adequately, fulfilled that role. Each character has a very necessary role and seemingly minor early interactions have impact on the story later on. For part of the story, the focus is on Amelia who died 100 years previously. Can the family solve the mystery of her death and discover why she’s still not at peace? The more they discover, the more they expose themselves to earthly danger, too. This book held my attention, totally. Frisch creates realistic characters with whom the reader can empathise, and the action continues to develop until the dramatic ending. I’ll never look at a pile of sand in the same way again!

[Laure · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sarah Anderson is a recently divorced mother of two children, Emma and Cory. Years ago, she had fallen in love with a beautiful old Victorian home in the quaint village of Rosewood Hollow. When it came up for sale, she jumped at the chance to make her dream come true by buying the home and moving to the small town. To make the move easier for her children she added a new family member, a sweet little Papillon that she adopted from the local pound, and with whom they will all fall in love with very quickly. Sarah soon makes friends with Lily, the local bookstore owner, and Matthew the handsome local historian. They soon learn that there is more to the old home than they could have guessed when they hear unexplained noises coming from the attic, and objects start moving from one place to another when no one is near.
Wonderful cast of characters that are well written, compelling, and unique. The addition of Pixie, a lovable and magical little Papillon with her ear tufts and Rottweiler attitude, adds some humor to this fantastic read. Secret societies, ghosts, unsolved murder, magic, a little romance, and unexpected twists in the plot make this a must-read cozy mystery. I highly recommend this book!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Flor PL · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to give Pixie a hug, she reads so welcoming and loving.
Her dynamic with any character was my favorite, because she gave her all to communicate. The story just flows and leaves you wanting to know what I wanted every time a chapter ends.
I admit I was suspicious of all the characters but some of the reactions were just too lukerwarm? And that made everything not quite come together.
There were a few typos in my copy, nothing major.

"Mom, you're a badass"

°°°°°°°°
Quiero darle un abrazo a Pixie, se la lee tan acogedora y cariñosa.
Su dinámica con cualquier personaje era mi favorita, porque daba todo de sí para comunicarse. La historia fluye y te deja con ganas de saber qué quería cada vez que termina un capítulo.
Admito que sospechaba de todos los personajes pero algunas reacciones eran demasiado ¿tibias? Y eso hizo que todo no acabara de cuajar.
Había algunas erratas en mi copia, nada importante.

"Mamá, eres ruda"

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun ghost story, slightly scary, with an absolutely adorable pet dog who has the ability to communicate mentally with her new owner. When Sarah's marriage falls apart, she takes her two children and moves to a new home and town, complete with an adopted Papillon dog named Pixie. But when they find a hidden entry to a boarded off attic, that's when things really start to happen. Has Sarah invested in a haunted house? And what will this mean to her and the kids? I enjoy reading books with a slight paranormal touch, especially when they involve adorable dogs (or cats). I also enjoyed how Sarah learned how to channel her own strength, as she dealt with living alone in a place (maybe slightly haunted) and dealing with everything. I am looking forward to the next story in this new series. Disclosure: I am voluntarily reviewing this book that I received for free and all opinions are strictly my own.

[Stacey]

What a great start to a new series. Sarah Anderson is recently divorced and has moved to Rosewood Hollow to live in an old Victorian home. Little does the family know that behind a closed off entry to the attic lies a ghost. And the newly adopted pup, Pixie, is able to communicate with humans. Are they able to solve the mystery of Amelia's demise?

I love this book. Pixie is such a sweet little dog. Sarah, the kids, Lilly and Matthew are all written so well. You feel like these could be people you know. I really hope that the second book releases soon because I can't wait to visit Rosewood Hollow again.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Margery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Newly divorced Sarah relocates to a now town. A home she admired years ago. Settling her son and daughter has a mixed bag of emotions until their neighbor gives them a house warming gift. A warm fuzzy Papillion named Pixie. With ease they seem to settle in with ease, until, Pixie seems to be talking. A mysterious door hidden under wall paper opens a bee hive releasing a spirit. What happened to Amelia that has her bound to the house? It is far from easy to get the whole story. Will they uncover the secrets of this old house, Amelias story and will they be able to set her free? A wonderful page turning tale has been woven for us by Sabine Frisch and not a book you would want to miss!

[Alice Hazelbaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sarah has just moved to Rosewood Hollow with her son and daughter, Cory and Emma, after her husband left her. To ease the transition Sarah has had a neighbor arrange a dog adoption from the local shelter. It’s a cute Papillon named Pixie, and there is something special about this particular dog. The family are all in for some surprises! It turns out her new a Victorian home has a hidden attic and a ghost, a handsome Historian shares the dark history of the house and her dog can communicate telepathically with her! It’s a cute and exciting story you don’t want to miss!