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Sleeping Beauty: Book 1: A Lira Somers Mystery Novel
Lira has always been haunted by her dreams, but theyre no mere nightmares. Each vision is a plea for help - like a terrified woman, chained and at the mercy of a sinister shadowy figure. Lira knows these dreams are real, a window into the anguish of victims in dire need. But sometimes her own cries go unheard.
As an amateur sleuth, Lira has used her extraordinary intuitive abilities to assist the police before. But this latest case, of a woman seemingly abducted, is her most challenging yet. The repeat dreams leave Lira desperately searching for clues to the victim's identity and location, even as the weight of this burden threatens to push her to the brink of collapse.
Racing against the clock, Lira must follow the elusive trail left by her unsettling visions. But the closer she gets to the truth, the darker the mystery becomes - a tangled web of secrets and obsession that Lira may not survive untangling.
Can Lira's unique talents lead her to the victim in time? Or will the torment of her dreams consume her before she can bring this shadowy abductor to justice?
This gripping paranormal mystery/thriller explores the fine line between Lira's remarkable intuitive gifts and the psychological toll they take, as she risks everything to rescue an innocent life hanging in the balance.
As an amateur sleuth, Lira has used her extraordinary intuitive abilities to assist the police before. But this latest case, of a woman seemingly abducted, is her most challenging yet. The repeat dreams leave Lira desperately searching for clues to the victim's identity and location, even as the weight of this burden threatens to push her to the brink of collapse.
Racing against the clock, Lira must follow the elusive trail left by her unsettling visions. But the closer she gets to the truth, the darker the mystery becomes - a tangled web of secrets and obsession that Lira may not survive untangling.
Can Lira's unique talents lead her to the victim in time? Or will the torment of her dreams consume her before she can bring this shadowy abductor to justice?
This gripping paranormal mystery/thriller explores the fine line between Lira's remarkable intuitive gifts and the psychological toll they take, as she risks everything to rescue an innocent life hanging in the balance.
199 pages, Paperback
Published August 20, 2024
About the author
Liz Bullard
13 books63 followersLiz Bullard is a author, therapist, and creative coach nestled in New England. She’s best known for her Prophecy Series and the Lira Somer Mysteries, praised for fast-paced plots, vivid scenes, and unforgettable characters. Liz is passionate about helping creatives move from feeling stuck to getting started, sharing honest stories and practical strategies along the way. When she’s not podcasting on the eReads Podcast or writing, Liz loves spending time in her garden, cooking delicious meals, and relaxing with her corgi Preston and a good book. With a focus on creativity, wellness, and living authentically, Liz’s work invites readers to find joy and freedom in their own creative journeys.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 10, 2024
Ummmm I had so much FUN. I don't think I've ever read a mystery/thriller that was both so witty and emotional at the same time, with so much success. Most thrillers are very serious so I loved how realistic and different Liz's approach was. I laughed, I got nervous, I was giggling and kicking my feet, there were so many emotions!! I love Lira's pure determination and compassion to what she does as a result of the dreams she was having. Her personality just made me fall in love with her and I truly felt like I connected with Lira on so many levels, which let's be honest... is why I read books. This book truly gave me everything, including a beautiful and tender female friendship, which is one of my biggest passions!!! ALSO I'm obsessed with Tomas aka my new book boyfriend #teamtoma🤭. There were very serious topics touched (usually in conjunction with her dreams) that are aspects of life that are unfortunately very real, but that were written with so much grace. Moral of the story: go read this IMMEDIATELY!!
August 11, 2024
To quote VeggieTales, "I laughed, I cried, it moved me, bob."
Where do I even begin? Thank god I read this book in the privacy of my home. If I tried reading this in public, at a coffee shop or, at the park, I would've been reported for disturbing the peace. I can count on one hand the amount of times a book has made me laugh out loud. And I mean, a full-on witches cackle, startling pigeons from their roosts. I might've caused eardrum damage to my cats. And if that isn't alarming enough, I cried. I had my nose pressed to my Kindle, and straight up cried. And the laughing-to-crying moment was not spaced out enough to be socially acceptable in any environment.
Lira Somers checks all the boxes, though. Adorable animal (sidekick?), check. Pot Brownies. Didn't know that was a box to check, but it is now! Lack of impulsive control FMC? Let's just triple-check that box. Spicy love interest? Mhmm. Yum. Just, yum. Paranormal elements? We've got them in spades. But most importantly, I love it when I read a book and I know without a shadow of a doubt I'll be rereading it.
As for my adventure rating, I don't typically give a book six feet. Maybe that’s because most of my books have some cosmic horror trying to suck my soul out of my toes, but this book—chefs kiss. Even if you told me I could only be reincarnated into this story as Pidge the Pigeon, I’d still be down. Pidge gets lots of snacks, and that’s one of my essential requirements to literally go or do anything outside the four walls of my house. I will gladly be Lira’s ride-or-die sidekick. Things will never be boring with Lira around. She is quite literally, the friend you have to help hide a body or bail out of jail material. But she's got your back, and I'm already begging for book two.
Where do I even begin? Thank god I read this book in the privacy of my home. If I tried reading this in public, at a coffee shop or, at the park, I would've been reported for disturbing the peace. I can count on one hand the amount of times a book has made me laugh out loud. And I mean, a full-on witches cackle, startling pigeons from their roosts. I might've caused eardrum damage to my cats. And if that isn't alarming enough, I cried. I had my nose pressed to my Kindle, and straight up cried. And the laughing-to-crying moment was not spaced out enough to be socially acceptable in any environment.
Lira Somers checks all the boxes, though. Adorable animal (sidekick?), check. Pot Brownies. Didn't know that was a box to check, but it is now! Lack of impulsive control FMC? Let's just triple-check that box. Spicy love interest? Mhmm. Yum. Just, yum. Paranormal elements? We've got them in spades. But most importantly, I love it when I read a book and I know without a shadow of a doubt I'll be rereading it.
As for my adventure rating, I don't typically give a book six feet. Maybe that’s because most of my books have some cosmic horror trying to suck my soul out of my toes, but this book—chefs kiss. Even if you told me I could only be reincarnated into this story as Pidge the Pigeon, I’d still be down. Pidge gets lots of snacks, and that’s one of my essential requirements to literally go or do anything outside the four walls of my house. I will gladly be Lira’s ride-or-die sidekick. Things will never be boring with Lira around. She is quite literally, the friend you have to help hide a body or bail out of jail material. But she's got your back, and I'm already begging for book two.
August 20, 2024
Thank you to the author Liz Bullard for giving me access to this book , it took me a bit to read but not because it was bad but because I don’t want to read it to fast so it wouldn’t end 🤧, Lira is definitely something else she is not what you expect as an investigator, she is Tasha Dan very impulsive but I love it. I love a character that just goes with her gut even though the gut maybe wrong and could lead her into very dangerous situations 👀 and I love her little sidekick and I love her friendships and soon to be relationships 👀 it was an amazing read literally kept me at the edge of my seat , definitely recommend
September 11, 2026
Audiobook 🎧: I was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what was going on! Lira is a sleuth that has dreams that shows a woman that is chained up. But she also had mental health issues that she struggles with as well. So the question is are her dreams real or does she needs a mental health evaluation?!?! Detective Tomas is the officer that Lira goes to about her dreams. Tomas has a crush on Lira. This just a little bit about this story cause it is much twists, turns, & other people involved in this story.
P.S Lira’s mental health therapist is very manipulative & untrusting.
P.S Lira’s mental health therapist is very manipulative & untrusting.
May 19, 2025
As a proud member of the Liz Bullard fan club, Sleeping Beauty absolutely blew me away. The character development of Lira Somers? Chef’s kiss. She’s sharp, complex, and beautifully flawed—everything I want in a mystery heroine.
Now, I know some folks might call Lira “unlikeable” because she’s stubborn and, yes, a little prickly. But when you take a step back and look at her life—losing two maternal figures, aging out of a foster system that failed her, navigating the world with gifts that get dismissed as delusion or madness—it’s hard to imagine her not being guarded. Her rough edges make sense. They’re earned. And if you ask me, they make her even more compelling.
What really stood out was how much depth Lira’s internal and psychological battles added to the mystery. She’s not just solving a case—she’s constantly questioning her own reality, her gifts, and whether the world will ever truly accept her. I found myself rooting for her even when I was side-eyeing some of her choices. (Girl, get it together!!)
And the villain? Don’t get me started. Let’s just say “SMH” doesn’t even begin to cover how I feel. 😤
The pacing of this book was so smooth—I didn’t even notice how deep I was until I hit that plot twist. One second, I’m riding along thinking I’ve got it all figured out, and the next... BAM! We're off the rails, and I loved it. That shift from investigator to is she okay?? to wait—WHAT just happened? had me hooked.
This was a total “just one more page” kind of book for me. And if this is just book one? I’m already clearing my calendar for book 2.
Now, I know some folks might call Lira “unlikeable” because she’s stubborn and, yes, a little prickly. But when you take a step back and look at her life—losing two maternal figures, aging out of a foster system that failed her, navigating the world with gifts that get dismissed as delusion or madness—it’s hard to imagine her not being guarded. Her rough edges make sense. They’re earned. And if you ask me, they make her even more compelling.
What really stood out was how much depth Lira’s internal and psychological battles added to the mystery. She’s not just solving a case—she’s constantly questioning her own reality, her gifts, and whether the world will ever truly accept her. I found myself rooting for her even when I was side-eyeing some of her choices. (Girl, get it together!!)
And the villain? Don’t get me started. Let’s just say “SMH” doesn’t even begin to cover how I feel. 😤
The pacing of this book was so smooth—I didn’t even notice how deep I was until I hit that plot twist. One second, I’m riding along thinking I’ve got it all figured out, and the next... BAM! We're off the rails, and I loved it. That shift from investigator to is she okay?? to wait—WHAT just happened? had me hooked.
This was a total “just one more page” kind of book for me. And if this is just book one? I’m already clearing my calendar for book 2.
November 2, 2024
A fun, exciting read with a lot of details that help you feel what the character feels. There are also easter eggs scattered around the book that tease what will happen, but you have no chance of guessing before it does.
August 20, 2024
Dear Liz,
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you for giving me access to the advanced reader copy of your book. As a writer, I was beyond thrilled and honored when you reached out to include me in your ARC team. It made me feel like a valued part of the author/writer community, and for that, I am truly grateful.
Now, let’s dive into the book itself!I approached this mystery/thriller novel with an open mind, especially since it’s not my usual genre. But wow, what a ride! This book exceeded all my expectations. If you’re like me—a girl who doesn’t typically gravitate toward mysteries—this book is an absolute must-read!
The pacing is electric; you’ll find yourself tearing through the chapters. And let me tell you, every chapter ends with a plot twist that left me on the edge of my seat, practically shouting, “What’s next?!”
Without giving too much away, I have to say the character development in this book is spot on. You’ve created a cast that’s diverse, relatable, and sometimes infuriating—in the best possible way. They made me feel every emotion, and I was totally immersed in their world.But I have to be honest—I did find myself wanting to shake some sense into Lira at times! Girl, please! She really tested my patience 😂. If it weren’t for her, this would have been a five-star read for sure.
The writing style is witty and accessible, making it easy to devour the pages. The plot? It’s a whirlwind—fast-paced and full of unexpected turns that kept me guessing until the very end. And the dialogue between Tomas and Lira? Chef’s kiss 💋. Their banter had me giggling like crazy!
A little heads-up for other readers: there are some heavy themes in the book, including mentions of abuse and violence, so be prepared for that.
Overall, I’m giving this book ⭐⭐⭐⭐.
And now, a special message just for you, Liz! 💕🙌
Girl, I am OBSESSED.
From the very first chapter, you nailed the inciting incident—it grabbed me right away and never let go. You have to give us more Tomas and Lira in the sequel—I’m already dying to know what happens next! 😭
Thank you again for including me in this journey. I’m so grateful for the opportunity, and I couldn’t be happier for you on the release of this incredible book. Congratulations! 🥰
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you for giving me access to the advanced reader copy of your book. As a writer, I was beyond thrilled and honored when you reached out to include me in your ARC team. It made me feel like a valued part of the author/writer community, and for that, I am truly grateful.
Now, let’s dive into the book itself!I approached this mystery/thriller novel with an open mind, especially since it’s not my usual genre. But wow, what a ride! This book exceeded all my expectations. If you’re like me—a girl who doesn’t typically gravitate toward mysteries—this book is an absolute must-read!
The pacing is electric; you’ll find yourself tearing through the chapters. And let me tell you, every chapter ends with a plot twist that left me on the edge of my seat, practically shouting, “What’s next?!”
Without giving too much away, I have to say the character development in this book is spot on. You’ve created a cast that’s diverse, relatable, and sometimes infuriating—in the best possible way. They made me feel every emotion, and I was totally immersed in their world.But I have to be honest—I did find myself wanting to shake some sense into Lira at times! Girl, please! She really tested my patience 😂. If it weren’t for her, this would have been a five-star read for sure.
The writing style is witty and accessible, making it easy to devour the pages. The plot? It’s a whirlwind—fast-paced and full of unexpected turns that kept me guessing until the very end. And the dialogue between Tomas and Lira? Chef’s kiss 💋. Their banter had me giggling like crazy!
A little heads-up for other readers: there are some heavy themes in the book, including mentions of abuse and violence, so be prepared for that.
Overall, I’m giving this book ⭐⭐⭐⭐.
And now, a special message just for you, Liz! 💕🙌
Girl, I am OBSESSED.
From the very first chapter, you nailed the inciting incident—it grabbed me right away and never let go. You have to give us more Tomas and Lira in the sequel—I’m already dying to know what happens next! 😭
Thank you again for including me in this journey. I’m so grateful for the opportunity, and I couldn’t be happier for you on the release of this incredible book. Congratulations! 🥰
February 20, 2025
This read had all the fast pacing, good feels, and nostalgic tones of a good old fashioned crime/mystery thriller of the 1980s and 1990s. Is that just me? I felt 10 years old again, in the best way. We’ve got a plucky heroine, hyper-independent to hide deep vulnerabilities of a rough upbringing (orphaned, although not raised without love), and a mysterious affliction whereby she has unpredictable and intrusive dreams that appear to show people in trouble. Are they real? Are they just dreams? Are they a sign of psychiatric illness? No one knows, although Lira’s instinct is to accept them as real, and as calls for help. She’s not a detective but she’s altruistic and determined, and she takes some missteps and gets herself into some tight spots trying to do right by her dreams. There is a delightful city pigeon—“Pidge”—she has befriended, a warm and loving social worker who is part mom, friend, and big sister, and the possibility of romance with the handsome and charming, green-flag man, Detective Tomás. There are also high stakes with a formidable villain that Lira has a hard time at first identifying. A fast-paced mystery with charming characters and feel-good relationships. Really enjoyed this Book 1 of the Lira Somers mystery/ crime thriller series.
January 9, 2025
No fluff, just a great story
Liz Bullard crafts an incredibly nuanced and deep work in this shorter work. With side characters with more depth then some MC Sleeping Beauty feels well rounded. The plot is exquisite with a nice twist that keeps it suspenseful. It's also quite lovely to see Lira grow (again in such a condensed work). No fluff just a great story!
Reminiscent of the TV series Found, Sleeping Beauty's Lira's trauma enhances her ability to hyper focus. While her gift coveys as a curse for most of her life, that's not her entire story.
Liz Bullard crafts an incredibly nuanced and deep work in this shorter work. With side characters with more depth then some MC Sleeping Beauty feels well rounded. The plot is exquisite with a nice twist that keeps it suspenseful. It's also quite lovely to see Lira grow (again in such a condensed work). No fluff just a great story!
Reminiscent of the TV series Found, Sleeping Beauty's Lira's trauma enhances her ability to hyper focus. While her gift coveys as a curse for most of her life, that's not her entire story.
February 1, 2025
The first time I have read anything by this author and had no idea what to expect. But the story pulls you in from the beginning. There are so many twists and turns that keep you guessing and hoping it works out for the main character. Lira is the epitome of tough and go-getter, which paired nicely with main male character, who kinda plays a supporting role. I definitely want to see more of Lira especially with the ending this one had!
April 4, 2025
Excellenrt
This was an excellent read. I am looking forward to reading the next books in the series. Will definitely recommend
This was an excellent read. I am looking forward to reading the next books in the series. Will definitely recommend
July 8, 2025
Lira’s story is a gripping blend of psychological suspense and supernatural mystery, centered on a protagonist who’s as fragile as she is determined. Her dream-visions are chilling and emotionally charged, drawing readers into the race to save a woman only she seems to know exists. The premise is intriguing, and the blend of intuition and investigative work adds a compelling layer to the narrative.
However, while the concept is strong, the execution occasionally falters. The pacing drags in parts, and the emotional intensity sometimes overwhelms the plot, making it harder to stay grounded in the investigation itself. Lira’s inner turmoil is vividly portrayed, but it can feel repetitive, overshadowing key developments. The romantic subplot with Detective Heinz adds charm but feels underdeveloped and at odds with the darker themes.
Overall, this is a solid read with a unique protagonist and eerie atmosphere, but it doesn’t quite deliver the urgency and payoff the premise promises. Fans of emotional, character-driven mysteries may find much to enjoy, but those craving a tight, fast-paced thriller might be left wanting.
However, while the concept is strong, the execution occasionally falters. The pacing drags in parts, and the emotional intensity sometimes overwhelms the plot, making it harder to stay grounded in the investigation itself. Lira’s inner turmoil is vividly portrayed, but it can feel repetitive, overshadowing key developments. The romantic subplot with Detective Heinz adds charm but feels underdeveloped and at odds with the darker themes.
Overall, this is a solid read with a unique protagonist and eerie atmosphere, but it doesn’t quite deliver the urgency and payoff the premise promises. Fans of emotional, character-driven mysteries may find much to enjoy, but those craving a tight, fast-paced thriller might be left wanting.
April 19, 2026
This book was so much fun 😭 I was hooked by Chapter 2 when I found out that her dreams connected with real crimes, then the ambiguity that lead to a small plot twist was also engaging. I love the romance with det Thomas they’re so cute together and Ms. Lira was not having it at first 😭. I also really like Toya and the way she communicates with her friend is very refreshing despite the mistakes made along the way. I have very little complaints about this book, it was short, fun, witty and engaging and I can’t wait to read the sequel.
July 19, 2026
I really like how the author introduced and brought the fmc to life in this first book of the series. Lira is a feisty, difficult, standoffish young woman with a big heart, a wary eye for a sexy man, and the unique ability to dream about the evil lurking just around the corner.
These dream visions torment her, driving her to find killers and kidnappers. Seeking justice as well as her own peace, she sets out to find the answers in unexpected places. A quick and satisfying read.
These dream visions torment her, driving her to find killers and kidnappers. Seeking justice as well as her own peace, she sets out to find the answers in unexpected places. A quick and satisfying read.
July 30, 2025
At just over 180 pages this book is really more of a novella. The action is just ramping up, then it's over. I still enjoyed it! There's no real answers given as to where Lira got her dreaming gift or when it started, but it's clear that she's a good person, though flawed as we all are. This was a quick read and I enjoyed it while it lasted.
November 12, 2025
I love a retelling and this was a great one. Even though Lira worked all my nerves I understood why she acted the way she did. This was a very engaging story. I loved it. Thank BRAE! I have another series to burn through.
EyeCU Reading Approved.
EyeCU Reading Approved.
July 13, 2026
very interesting story
I did enjoy the story interesting plot could use more characters development but was still OK. The story will hold. Your attention I was a little lost in the beginning, but by the end everything pan out.
Keith Book Korner
I did enjoy the story interesting plot could use more characters development but was still OK. The story will hold. Your attention I was a little lost in the beginning, but by the end everything pan out.
Keith Book Korner
September 24, 2026
A delightfully quick and captivating mystery with great characters (❤️ Pidge!!) and a quirky psychic twist. Pairs perfectly with a cup of hot spiced chai, a dim candle-lit room, or a rainy afternoon for a couple of uninterrupted hours of pure reading magic.
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April 14, 2026D
April 16, 2026
Sleeping Beauty
I enjoyed this book. I think this would make a good TV series. I’m looking forward to starting the next book.
I enjoyed this book. I think this would make a good TV series. I’m looking forward to starting the next book.
March 14, 2026
this was different for me but good
I actually like this one. Started off a bit slow, but definitely recommend. It has an equal balance of laughter and”awe” moments.
I actually like this one. Started off a bit slow, but definitely recommend. It has an equal balance of laughter and”awe” moments.
March 20, 2025
I did not enjoy this book. The MC was dislikable in the way she treated everyone around her and ESPECIALLY in how she looked down at everyone, too. The LI she thought was annoying/infuriating and all he seemed to do was smile at her, be nice and patient, and defended her/took up for her. (Oh! And she refused to listen to him when he pretty much said 'don't go by yourself; [the suspect] is dangerous'. She goes and gets lucky to be saved.)
Overall, what bothered me about her was that she had the mentality of 'I'm independent, I don't need help, and everyone who doesn't look like me has secrets and is bad'.
If your MC is unlikable, I'm not going to like your book.
Overall, what bothered me about her was that she had the mentality of 'I'm independent, I don't need help, and everyone who doesn't look like me has secrets and is bad'.
If your MC is unlikable, I'm not going to like your book.
September 3, 2026
Loved this mystery, trying to figure out who was this woman in Lira's dreams, who had her and will they/won't they (given it's not the primary focus of the story)
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews