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Ellie McEwan #2
The Colour of Mystery
Three nice people. Three terrible crimes. What made them do these awful things?
It’s the night shift worker who finds them. Huddled in a hospital store cupboard is elderly Edith Higgins. Knifed to death. Sitting behind her is Staff Nurse Lily Frampton, a scalpel clasped in her blood-soaked hand.
No one can understand why this kind-hearted, dedicated nurse would brutally murder a frail patient she’s spent months caring for.
That same day, mild-mannered schoolteacher Rod Black is found surrounded by the battered bodies of his pupils. Why would a well-respected teacher beat five schoolboys to death?
Then a third shocking — and equally inexplicable — incident takes place in a London homeless shelter.
What could turn three honest, upright citizens into cold-blooded killers?
Once again, DCI Bob Foreman calls on Ellie McEwan for help. Can Ellie use her extraordinary psychic gift to uncover the truth?
It’s the night shift worker who finds them. Huddled in a hospital store cupboard is elderly Edith Higgins. Knifed to death. Sitting behind her is Staff Nurse Lily Frampton, a scalpel clasped in her blood-soaked hand.
No one can understand why this kind-hearted, dedicated nurse would brutally murder a frail patient she’s spent months caring for.
That same day, mild-mannered schoolteacher Rod Black is found surrounded by the battered bodies of his pupils. Why would a well-respected teacher beat five schoolboys to death?
Then a third shocking — and equally inexplicable — incident takes place in a London homeless shelter.
What could turn three honest, upright citizens into cold-blooded killers?
Once again, DCI Bob Foreman calls on Ellie McEwan for help. Can Ellie use her extraordinary psychic gift to uncover the truth?
12 pages, Audible Audio
First published February 1, 2024
1775 people are currently reading
353 people want to read
About the author
Joy Ellis
62 books2,440 followersJoy Ellis grew up in Kent but moved to London when she won an apprenticeship with the prestigious Mayfair florist, Constance Spry Ltd. Having run her own flower shop in Weybridge for many years, Ellis then worked as a bookseller until a trip to the Greek island of Skyros, where she took part in a writer's workshop with Sue Townsend, encouraged her to write her own books. Joy soon after moved to the Lincolnshire Fens, where she has spent many of years living among the countryside accompanied by her partner, Jacqueline, and her variety of springer spaniels. After many years of writing, Jasper Joffe, from Joffe Books, discovered Joy's work and approached her with the offer of becoming her new publisher. This new relationship introduced Joy's work to the fascinating world of ebooks and audible listening. Since their partnership, Joy's success has grown further than she could have ever imagined. She has recently celebrated her 10th UK No.1 book on the Amazon 'Best Sellers' chart, with her 9th instalment in the Jackman & Evans series, Solace House. Joy boasts a staggering estimated total over 3.4 million copies sold worldwide, and became a short-listed nominee at the British Book Awards, 2021.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
February 12, 2024
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
THE COLOUR OF MYSTERY (Ellie McEwan Mysteries Book #2) by Joy Ellis is the second of two mysteries with paranormal elements written by Ms. Ellis at the beginning of her career and just recently published. This book can be read as a standalone because the reader is brought up to date on important elements from The Aura of Mystery and it is set two years after the first, but I feel it is best to read them in order.
Ellie McEwan and Michael Seale are still deciding on what to do with the immense inheritance left to them by their friend Carol two years ago. They have started a Healing Center for specialty care with a variety of specialists and healers. After three respected and loved people commit unimaginable murders and then go into a catatonic-like state, DCI Forman asks for Ellie’s help on this case using her psychic gift once again.
This is an engaging mix of paranormal anomalies and police procedural. The characters are well developed and interesting. The mystery plot is suspenseful with help from friends from beyond and law enforcement friends, but at times, especially in the beginning of the story, the pace feels a bit slow. Overall, an intriguing genre mash-up.
THE COLOUR OF MYSTERY (Ellie McEwan Mysteries Book #2) by Joy Ellis is the second of two mysteries with paranormal elements written by Ms. Ellis at the beginning of her career and just recently published. This book can be read as a standalone because the reader is brought up to date on important elements from The Aura of Mystery and it is set two years after the first, but I feel it is best to read them in order.
Ellie McEwan and Michael Seale are still deciding on what to do with the immense inheritance left to them by their friend Carol two years ago. They have started a Healing Center for specialty care with a variety of specialists and healers. After three respected and loved people commit unimaginable murders and then go into a catatonic-like state, DCI Forman asks for Ellie’s help on this case using her psychic gift once again.
This is an engaging mix of paranormal anomalies and police procedural. The characters are well developed and interesting. The mystery plot is suspenseful with help from friends from beyond and law enforcement friends, but at times, especially in the beginning of the story, the pace feels a bit slow. Overall, an intriguing genre mash-up.
February 6, 2024
This is the second of Joy Ellis’ earliest books to be published, a follow up to An Aura of Mystery and it’s an absolute cracker. I don’t know where Joy gets her ideas or her imagination, or even how she keeps track of her plots. The Colour of Mystery continues the story of Ellie and Michael as they set up a clinic with their inheritance. Then innocent people start to first commit murder, and then to die. What is going on? The story unfolds, a complex mixture of very modern medical science and extreme paranormal events and written with Joy’s fabulous style and skill.
May 7, 2025
I enjoyed this instalment of the series much more than the first and would love to see some continuation of the characters
Decidedly darker, and wholly more on the paranormal side of things, everything about this title worked much better than the first, and I’m glad I decided to stay with it.
Great storyline great narration.
Included with audible until May 22nd 🎧
Decidedly darker, and wholly more on the paranormal side of things, everything about this title worked much better than the first, and I’m glad I decided to stay with it.
Great storyline great narration.
Included with audible until May 22nd 🎧
February 7, 2024
Great, wish there were more
A splendid mix of mystery and supernatural with very well defined characters. I enjoyed the w whodunit aspects and the emotional maturity.
A splendid mix of mystery and supernatural with very well defined characters. I enjoyed the w whodunit aspects and the emotional maturity.
February 10, 2024
Fantastic follow up to the previous book in this series. I would love Joy to do a follow-up. The plot pulls you in from the first chapter and soars from there. Highly recommend, especially of you like the paranormal as that is a primary driving force in this book.
March 28, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyable!
It possibly could be a standalone…. But you would have missed so much…. and know it! Buy and read book one NOW.
I have loved all of this author’s series. These two books were her first try at writing and a decision to move in one direction (paranormal) or another (mystery, suspense and murder) resulted in a focus on the latter - very, very successfully.
Having loved all of her later series, I’m glad she made the move…… But
….. there is literally loads of mileage in these characters and with all the skills you have learned over the intervening years, this series could be a real winner too.
Pretty please, think about it, Joy. I want to know what happens next.
It possibly could be a standalone…. But you would have missed so much…. and know it! Buy and read book one NOW.
I have loved all of this author’s series. These two books were her first try at writing and a decision to move in one direction (paranormal) or another (mystery, suspense and murder) resulted in a focus on the latter - very, very successfully.
Having loved all of her later series, I’m glad she made the move…… But
….. there is literally loads of mileage in these characters and with all the skills you have learned over the intervening years, this series could be a real winner too.
Pretty please, think about it, Joy. I want to know what happens next.
February 4, 2024
I have always loved reading the Joy Ellis books.
I am so glad that this and the first book were rescued from that attic. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book, and this one even more.
It shows what an amazing talent Joy Ellis had before her books were published.
This book is so different and most enjoyable. You are captured from the very beginning into an edge of seat gripping read, with a roller coaster of twists.
This is a unique, well written storyline and plot with strong characters. It keeps you guessing all the way through.
I just hadn't a clue till the very end.
As for finishing the book, I was sorry, too, knowing there wasn't more.
I have enjoyed these two books so much that I just want to know more.
This is a must-read book.
My thanks go to Joffe books for the advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review.
I am so glad that this and the first book were rescued from that attic. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book, and this one even more.
It shows what an amazing talent Joy Ellis had before her books were published.
This book is so different and most enjoyable. You are captured from the very beginning into an edge of seat gripping read, with a roller coaster of twists.
This is a unique, well written storyline and plot with strong characters. It keeps you guessing all the way through.
I just hadn't a clue till the very end.
As for finishing the book, I was sorry, too, knowing there wasn't more.
I have enjoyed these two books so much that I just want to know more.
This is a must-read book.
My thanks go to Joffe books for the advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review.
February 6, 2024
What an excellent book. Ellie and Michael have established a healing centre using the money left to them in their friend’s will.
They provide space for a variety of specialists and healers and soon decide that they should also provide inpatient care.
Jake is their first inpatient, a patient of Ellie’s friend Alice.
Ellie is asked to help the local police with the strange murders where the murderers are all good people who are now in a trance. What is going on?
They provide space for a variety of specialists and healers and soon decide that they should also provide inpatient care.
Jake is their first inpatient, a patient of Ellie’s friend Alice.
Ellie is asked to help the local police with the strange murders where the murderers are all good people who are now in a trance. What is going on?
February 9, 2024
Fabulous -Both Books
Please, please, please continue this marvelous series. Should have been published eons ago. I was enthralled from beginning to end!
Please, please, please continue this marvelous series. Should have been published eons ago. I was enthralled from beginning to end!
December 2, 2024
I really disliked this one. Strange since I enjoyed the first book. It was just too unbelievable and hopeless. Glad it was free on audible.
February 10, 2024
Definitely recommend.
The colour of Mystery by Joy Ellis.
Ellie McEwan Mysteries Book 2.
THREE NICE PEOPLE. THREE TERRIBLE CRIMES. WHAT MADE THEM DO THESE AWFUL THINGS?
Omg another brilliant new series from this lovely author. I love Ellie. She is still my favourite character. It was nice to hear about Carole and Vera. I did love how Carole was in book 1. I liked Michael. He and Ellie are a good team. I liked Alice. I did try to figure out who was behind the kills but it wasn't who I thought it would be. I did like the ending and what Bob said. I hope there is more to come. 5*.
The colour of Mystery by Joy Ellis.
Ellie McEwan Mysteries Book 2.
THREE NICE PEOPLE. THREE TERRIBLE CRIMES. WHAT MADE THEM DO THESE AWFUL THINGS?
Omg another brilliant new series from this lovely author. I love Ellie. She is still my favourite character. It was nice to hear about Carole and Vera. I did love how Carole was in book 1. I liked Michael. He and Ellie are a good team. I liked Alice. I did try to figure out who was behind the kills but it wasn't who I thought it would be. I did like the ending and what Bob said. I hope there is more to come. 5*.
Read
February 12, 2024The Colour of Mystery book two in this beautiful series rescued from her attic that has been sitting for two decades after enjoying Aura book one I just am so glad I waited to read them both together.
This is the second precious vintage book as Ellie McEwan uses her precious gift once again.
Settled into Snug cottage with the beloved dogs that her and Michael Seale inherited from their wonderful friend Carol life is good.
This author has captured this book as a remarkable story, that will bring so much joy to readers.
I loved reading these two book series so different and never doubt this authors talent and work.
readers don't want to miss out give them a try for yourself.
This is the second precious vintage book as Ellie McEwan uses her precious gift once again.
Settled into Snug cottage with the beloved dogs that her and Michael Seale inherited from their wonderful friend Carol life is good.
This author has captured this book as a remarkable story, that will bring so much joy to readers.
I loved reading these two book series so different and never doubt this authors talent and work.
readers don't want to miss out give them a try for yourself.
January 26, 2025
4.25⭐️
Really like these characters and idea. This second book really pulled on all the good bits of. The first but with a more supernatural twist which I liked better, although I did miss the crank from the old benefactor.
Honestly I only wished the author had developed a bit more the side plot that insinuated some haunting. Maybe the author was planning to expand on that in a later book. Too bad there isn’t one.
Really like these characters and idea. This second book really pulled on all the good bits of. The first but with a more supernatural twist which I liked better, although I did miss the crank from the old benefactor.
Honestly I only wished the author had developed a bit more the side plot that insinuated some haunting. Maybe the author was planning to expand on that in a later book. Too bad there isn’t one.
February 10, 2024
Really enjoyed this
For the most part what was happening in the story was obvious, but that in no way stopped me reading it. Whilst I knew what was happening I really wanted to know how Ellie and Michael would deal with it; and that's what kept me reading. I hope there is another Ellie McEwen mystery as I would love to get to know more about her and her friends and colleagues both alive and dead.
For the most part what was happening in the story was obvious, but that in no way stopped me reading it. Whilst I knew what was happening I really wanted to know how Ellie and Michael would deal with it; and that's what kept me reading. I hope there is another Ellie McEwen mystery as I would love to get to know more about her and her friends and colleagues both alive and dead.
May 5, 2025
Overall I liked the book more at the beginning because all the information was covered in book one but the ending was so bad I can’t remember any positives. The whole bad guy plot didn’t make much sense and again felt like an afterthought. Also hate how shocked everyone acts at the presence of Carol from the afterlife when they know she’s around. Also also hate Ellie’s girlfriend (forgot her name and don’t care) she’s so controlling and bossy ugh I wanted them to break up so bad!!
May 19, 2025
This series was a winner for me. Interesting mystery that had me guessing, likable characters I’d want to be friends with, supportive community that builds up around Ellie. I love how the spiritual/aura element is positioned as a special gift, but not other worldly, and no one ever judges it harshly even if they don’t quite believe.
Audiobook.
Audiobook.
June 8, 2024
As with the previous book I was totally absorbed in the story, it felt like I was there watching in the sidelines, I do wish that Joy would follow up on these books we need to know more about Ellie & Michael & their protectors xx
July 14, 2024
Greatly enjoyed the continuation of Ellie McEwan's story. The story itself was crazy. Crazy in a good and entertaining way. I'd love to see Ellis write more in this series but if it means writing less of her other 3 series, then never mind.
May 16, 2025
I love the concepts of these books. I know she has said that she will not continue with this series but I would really enjoy a third book
February 9, 2024
Through provoking
This book realities you to a different place and makes you question everything fascinating insight into the characters evolve slowly keeping you turning the pages to the very end
This book realities you to a different place and makes you question everything fascinating insight into the characters evolve slowly keeping you turning the pages to the very end
February 8, 2024
Another Great Read
A complicated tale full of twists and turns, technical details and frightening deaths when ordinary well loved and really good citizens appear to go on a killing spree which makes little or no sense. Really excellent and spine chilling
A complicated tale full of twists and turns, technical details and frightening deaths when ordinary well loved and really good citizens appear to go on a killing spree which makes little or no sense. Really excellent and spine chilling
February 6, 2024
I received an ARC of this book via Joffe Books in return for an honest review.
This is the second and last book in the Ellie McEwan series and what a shame! A very interesting storyline with lots of detail regarding auras with several murders thrown into the mix. Thoroughly enjoyable and definitely worth a read.
This is the second and last book in the Ellie McEwan series and what a shame! A very interesting storyline with lots of detail regarding auras with several murders thrown into the mix. Thoroughly enjoyable and definitely worth a read.
May 17, 2025
Audio version of this book 📕 - Found this one a bit boring , can definitely tell this is one of the first books Joy Ellis has written . Her recent books are 100%better
February 6, 2024
Ellie McEwan has her clinic up and running but things don't go quite to plan, with plenty of Murders along the way.
An absolute page turner.
Well done Joy for another great read.
An absolute page turner.
Well done Joy for another great read.
January 28, 2024
This is the second of two of Joy's earliest works, dug out from the attic and finally published. I'm so glad they were as both are incredible. It's truly a master at the top of her game and it's so hard to believe that this and the previous book were her first foray into the mystery writing world.
You need to read the earlier book first to gain an insight into Azimah syndrome and what it entails, and also to get to know the main characters and their backgrounds. It's utterly fascinating. The story here revolves around 3 murders , each committed by the unlikeliest of people but what could have driven these mild mannered people to commit such heinous acts? It's riveting and a total page-turner. I'm gutted that there are only two in this series and there won't be any more. I'm in awe as to where the author gets her ideas from.
You need to read the earlier book first to gain an insight into Azimah syndrome and what it entails, and also to get to know the main characters and their backgrounds. It's utterly fascinating. The story here revolves around 3 murders , each committed by the unlikeliest of people but what could have driven these mild mannered people to commit such heinous acts? It's riveting and a total page-turner. I'm gutted that there are only two in this series and there won't be any more. I'm in awe as to where the author gets her ideas from.
October 29, 2024
Fantastic story and can’t wait to see if Joy Ellis writes a follow up.
March 5, 2024
Disappointed
Unlike her previous books. Glad I didn't buy the first. Wouldn't buy any more of these. Only finished it because I started it.
Unlike her previous books. Glad I didn't buy the first. Wouldn't buy any more of these. Only finished it because I started it.
August 14, 2024
Very poor
If this had been the first book of joy Ellis I had read I would not have read any more
If this had been the first book of joy Ellis I had read I would not have read any more
February 11, 2024
Two years have passed since Carole’s death and her vast fortune has passed to Ellie McEwan and Prof Michael Seale. Intent on doing good with it, they have opened the Cavendish-Meyer Healing Centre in an old manor house in Ripley, offering assessments by Ellie and a range of complementary and alternative therapies. Next in their plan is to provide in-patient treatment and, when Ellie’s partner Dr Alice Cross, a specialist in treating Azimah Syndrome, has a new patient in need of urgent help, no time is wasted in refurbishing the second floor ready to receive the young man, Jake Kennedy, and recruiting two very good nurses. With Ellie now living in Snug Cottage with Carole’s spaniels and Michael moving into the annex at the centre, life is perfect. Also back in this story are old faces the Scrubbs, dog walker and doctor’s wife Marie Littlewood and her son Daniel whose health is much improved. Ellie may not be able to see Carole and Vera sometimes but the pair are making their presence felt in other ways, and Ellie will certainly need their watchful eyes and guidance in the days to come after she and Michael receive a chilling warning from them – there is darkness among them. Meanwhile DCI Bob Foreman, together with DI Jon Leatham and WDS Wendy Brown have a new case – that of a well-loved teacher who has attacked six children in his charge, killing most of them. Wendy, who has remained close friends with Ellie, spots a link with two other cases, that of a caring nurse killing an elderly patient and a woman suffocating six homeless people she was looking after. The killers seem to have lost their minds. They discuss what could have made these good honest people act so out of character. Could it be mind-altering drugs or something more sinister? Ellie agrees to once more put on the mantle of aura detective and help Surrey Police, Vera and Carole basically giving her no choice in the matter! And Bob and his team desperately need some help as it looks like this strange and bizarre force is not going to stop.
What an incredible blend of police procedural and the mystical this is! Following on from book one, An Aura of Mystery, this story brings back the wonderful characters that were introduced and adds some more very likeable and interesting ones. The cross-genre story telling is beautifully done, clearly involving extensive research, an obvious interest in the subject and a little artistic license to bring another thrilling yet very heartwarming tale which I was completely glued to from start to finish! I’m sure I won’t be the only reader who is longing for more in this magical series!!
What an incredible blend of police procedural and the mystical this is! Following on from book one, An Aura of Mystery, this story brings back the wonderful characters that were introduced and adds some more very likeable and interesting ones. The cross-genre story telling is beautifully done, clearly involving extensive research, an obvious interest in the subject and a little artistic license to bring another thrilling yet very heartwarming tale which I was completely glued to from start to finish! I’m sure I won’t be the only reader who is longing for more in this magical series!!
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