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The Tarot Reader: A Novel
A phony psychic vision goes wrong when a woman unexpectedly finds herself involved in a murder investigation, perfect for fans of May Cobb and Catherine McKenzie.
Twenty-five-year-old Jade Crawford spends her days selling crystals, conducting séances, and reading tarot cards in her shop in Winston-Salem, NC. But her connection to the other side is all a facade. After losing their mother to a terrible accident and their father serving jail time, Jade and her younger sister Stevie do what they can to survive. When a local politician goes missing, Jade sees a lucrative opportunity to drum up new clients and inject some much-needed cash into their pockets.
Jade submits a “psychic vision” to the police tipline only to discover that her shot in the dark is chillingly accurate when the police find the politician’s body. Caught in a media whirlwind, Jade revels in her newfound popularity and success, but she quickly finds herself the target of not only a police investigation but of the killer who is still on the loose.
With stunning suspense that is perfect for fans of Samantha M. Bailey, Finley turns the screws tighter into a taut and thrilling read.
Twenty-five-year-old Jade Crawford spends her days selling crystals, conducting séances, and reading tarot cards in her shop in Winston-Salem, NC. But her connection to the other side is all a facade. After losing their mother to a terrible accident and their father serving jail time, Jade and her younger sister Stevie do what they can to survive. When a local politician goes missing, Jade sees a lucrative opportunity to drum up new clients and inject some much-needed cash into their pockets.
Jade submits a “psychic vision” to the police tipline only to discover that her shot in the dark is chillingly accurate when the police find the politician’s body. Caught in a media whirlwind, Jade revels in her newfound popularity and success, but she quickly finds herself the target of not only a police investigation but of the killer who is still on the loose.
With stunning suspense that is perfect for fans of Samantha M. Bailey, Finley turns the screws tighter into a taut and thrilling read.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2025
10 people are currently reading
4708 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
October 5, 2025
Jade Crawford is out here running the world’s messiest metaphysical hustle, and honestly? Respect the grind, babe. She’s slinging tarot cards with the same energy as a 7-year-old playing “store,” and her ghostly séances come with a side of smoke machine and sibling sabotage. I mean, it’s all fake, but at least it’s organized fake. Jade’s not really in touch with the dead, unless we count her social life, which basically flatlined somewhere between shoplifting her own customers and dodging the trauma ghosts of her jailbird dad.
Then boom. A local politician goes missing, Jade tosses a totally fake psychic “vision” at the police tip line like she’s spinning a bottle, and guess what? Her wild guess turns out to be murder-scene accurate. Suddenly the girl who couldn’t even predict a Starbucks line is psychic famous. But fame, much like rent in Winston-Salem, comes with consequences, like nosy cops, shady men in hoodies, and actual murderers who really don’t appreciate being outed by someone with an Etsy crystal shop and a fog machine.
Look, the premise had me cackling with delight. Grifter girlies, sister drama, fake psychics catching real murder vibes? Inject that chaos straight into my veins. And The Tarot Reader delivers on the vibes. It’s got that fall energy, crunchy leaves, dead bodies, and familial dysfunction wrapped in a velvet scarf.
But... it also runs into the classic con-artist problem: the more lies we stack, the messier it gets, and suddenly you’re thirty chapters deep yelling, “Girl, why would you do that?!” like it’s a drinking game and you’re already tipsy. Jade makes so many unhinged decisions I started wondering if she was cursed, because no sober brain would go that hard for clout.
The real heart here is the sister dynamic. Stevie is the ride-or-die younger sibling with actual human instincts, and if anyone deserved a tarot card spread titled “Please Escape This Plot,” it was her. She brings the emotional depth that Jade steamrolls over like a “Psychic Visions 50% Off” sign. Their trauma backstory? Painfully real. The generational scammer lineage? Delicious. But Jade keeps spinning like a ferris wheel of chaos while Stevie is just trying to survive the carnival.
Narration-wise? Sarah Beth Pfeifer came to work. Her performance keeps the pace snappy and the characters distinct, no easy feat when the sisters sound like they were raised in the same grift-soaked pressure cooker. Pfeifer adds just enough tension to keep the thriller vibes buzzing, and she nails that southern-not-sweet tone that says, “I’ll talk to spirits but also stab you with a hairpin if needed.”
Still, we need to talk about the ending. It’s like the story was sprinting a marathon and then tripped face-first into a brick wall labeled “Rushed Resolution.” The last 20% is a grab bag of reveals, red herrings, and emotional whiplash. I didn’t want a perfect bow, but I did want a plot twist that didn’t feel like it came out of a Mad Libs crime generator.
Final take: solid premise, excellent narration, emotionally rich sibling arc, but the plot gets tangled in its own web and then shrugs like, “Well, anyway!” A strong three-star read for thriller girlies who love messy women and morally gray chaos with a shot of sass.
Whodunity Award: For Making Me Side-Eye a Pothole, Accuse a Therapy Dog, and Whisper “It’s Giving Murderer” at a Houseplant
Thanks to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the early audiobook. And for giving me yet another reason to never trust a woman with a ring light and a crystal ball she bought on Etsy.
Then boom. A local politician goes missing, Jade tosses a totally fake psychic “vision” at the police tip line like she’s spinning a bottle, and guess what? Her wild guess turns out to be murder-scene accurate. Suddenly the girl who couldn’t even predict a Starbucks line is psychic famous. But fame, much like rent in Winston-Salem, comes with consequences, like nosy cops, shady men in hoodies, and actual murderers who really don’t appreciate being outed by someone with an Etsy crystal shop and a fog machine.
Look, the premise had me cackling with delight. Grifter girlies, sister drama, fake psychics catching real murder vibes? Inject that chaos straight into my veins. And The Tarot Reader delivers on the vibes. It’s got that fall energy, crunchy leaves, dead bodies, and familial dysfunction wrapped in a velvet scarf.
But... it also runs into the classic con-artist problem: the more lies we stack, the messier it gets, and suddenly you’re thirty chapters deep yelling, “Girl, why would you do that?!” like it’s a drinking game and you’re already tipsy. Jade makes so many unhinged decisions I started wondering if she was cursed, because no sober brain would go that hard for clout.
The real heart here is the sister dynamic. Stevie is the ride-or-die younger sibling with actual human instincts, and if anyone deserved a tarot card spread titled “Please Escape This Plot,” it was her. She brings the emotional depth that Jade steamrolls over like a “Psychic Visions 50% Off” sign. Their trauma backstory? Painfully real. The generational scammer lineage? Delicious. But Jade keeps spinning like a ferris wheel of chaos while Stevie is just trying to survive the carnival.
Narration-wise? Sarah Beth Pfeifer came to work. Her performance keeps the pace snappy and the characters distinct, no easy feat when the sisters sound like they were raised in the same grift-soaked pressure cooker. Pfeifer adds just enough tension to keep the thriller vibes buzzing, and she nails that southern-not-sweet tone that says, “I’ll talk to spirits but also stab you with a hairpin if needed.”
Still, we need to talk about the ending. It’s like the story was sprinting a marathon and then tripped face-first into a brick wall labeled “Rushed Resolution.” The last 20% is a grab bag of reveals, red herrings, and emotional whiplash. I didn’t want a perfect bow, but I did want a plot twist that didn’t feel like it came out of a Mad Libs crime generator.
Final take: solid premise, excellent narration, emotionally rich sibling arc, but the plot gets tangled in its own web and then shrugs like, “Well, anyway!” A strong three-star read for thriller girlies who love messy women and morally gray chaos with a shot of sass.
Whodunity Award: For Making Me Side-Eye a Pothole, Accuse a Therapy Dog, and Whisper “It’s Giving Murderer” at a Houseplant
Thanks to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the early audiobook. And for giving me yet another reason to never trust a woman with a ring light and a crystal ball she bought on Etsy.
September 30, 2025
ALC 3.5 Stars!
This book is about 2 sisters who run a sham tarot reading and medium business. They trick customers by picking up context clues or doing online research to earn a living, one of which was taught to them by their own parents. They are in desperate need of money when they get a notice of their rent increasing, and after brainstorming ways to earn extra income, one sister decides to answer a reward for information poster about the death of a local politician.
While everything seems to be going well for them after they call in a tip to the police, which was just a random location that has been having noisy construction and bothering them, they are soon sucked into more and more lies. The sisters have each other’s backs and try to maintain their charade for as long as they can until their father gets released from jail and their plans soon begin to crumble.
I really loved the sister relationship that was told throughout the book. The secret that one of the sisters had been holding was so sad and I’m glad it was finally revealed so she could heal. I did find the relationship with the neighbor/psychologist to be lacking. I wanted more from that, like a twist or a shocking reveal.
The true killer was revealed at the end and it was surprising! I was not suspecting it to be who it was but the tie into them and why they did it could have used more support.
Overall, I was entertained throughout the entire book. I love a con artist thriller and I enjoyed the aspects of that in this book, and the narrator was great!
This book was sent to me from NetGalley for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book is about 2 sisters who run a sham tarot reading and medium business. They trick customers by picking up context clues or doing online research to earn a living, one of which was taught to them by their own parents. They are in desperate need of money when they get a notice of their rent increasing, and after brainstorming ways to earn extra income, one sister decides to answer a reward for information poster about the death of a local politician.
While everything seems to be going well for them after they call in a tip to the police, which was just a random location that has been having noisy construction and bothering them, they are soon sucked into more and more lies. The sisters have each other’s backs and try to maintain their charade for as long as they can until their father gets released from jail and their plans soon begin to crumble.
I really loved the sister relationship that was told throughout the book. The secret that one of the sisters had been holding was so sad and I’m glad it was finally revealed so she could heal. I did find the relationship with the neighbor/psychologist to be lacking. I wanted more from that, like a twist or a shocking reveal.
The true killer was revealed at the end and it was surprising! I was not suspecting it to be who it was but the tie into them and why they did it could have used more support.
Overall, I was entertained throughout the entire book. I love a con artist thriller and I enjoyed the aspects of that in this book, and the narrator was great!
This book was sent to me from NetGalley for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 10, 2025
The lies in this book absolutely snowball into the messiest plot. I was screaming at these characters (Jade in particular) because why would they make the most ridiculous choices over and over again? If you know you are a fake psychic why would you suddenly want to be famous when all you have ever wanted is to survive?
A bit of a Scooby-Doo ending- the bad guy is unmasked with zero surprise from moi and the day is saved. The family dynamic however? still absolutely busted.
thank you to NetGalley, the author Finley Turner, and Dreamscape Media for my ALC of this audiobook.
A bit of a Scooby-Doo ending- the bad guy is unmasked with zero surprise from moi and the day is saved. The family dynamic however? still absolutely busted.
thank you to NetGalley, the author Finley Turner, and Dreamscape Media for my ALC of this audiobook.
September 17, 2025
Out October 14th, 2025
Jade Crawford isn’t your average psychic—because she’s not psychic at all. Raised by grifters and scraping by in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Jade runs a crystal shop and performs tarot readings that are more theater than mysticism. When a local politician goes missing, she sees a chance to cash in by submitting a fake “vision” to the police tip line. But her bluff backfires spectacularly when the body is found exactly where she claimed. Suddenly, Jade is thrust into the spotlight, hailed as a clairvoyant, and hunted by a killer who knows she’s not what she seems2.
The novel thrives on its morally gray protagonist. Jade is messy, clever, and deeply flawed—exactly the kind of character who makes terrible decisions you can’t look away from. Her relationship with her younger sister Stevie adds emotional weight, grounding the story in survival and sibling loyalty. As the media frenzy builds and the police dig deeper, Jade finds herself juggling fame, fear, and the very real possibility that her con has made her a target. The suspense is taut, and the pacing keeps you flipping pages, even when you want to shake Jade for her choices.
Where the book shines is in its atmosphere and character work. The setting—equal parts Southern charm and small-town menace—feels lived-in, and the supporting cast is as eclectic as a tarot deck. From corrupt politicians to skeptical detectives, each figure adds a layer of intrigue. However, the plot occasionally leans too heavily on coincidence, and some twists feel more convenient than earned. Still, the resolution ties things up with satisfying ambiguity, leaving room for reflection without spoon-feeding closure.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC!
Jade Crawford isn’t your average psychic—because she’s not psychic at all. Raised by grifters and scraping by in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Jade runs a crystal shop and performs tarot readings that are more theater than mysticism. When a local politician goes missing, she sees a chance to cash in by submitting a fake “vision” to the police tip line. But her bluff backfires spectacularly when the body is found exactly where she claimed. Suddenly, Jade is thrust into the spotlight, hailed as a clairvoyant, and hunted by a killer who knows she’s not what she seems2.
The novel thrives on its morally gray protagonist. Jade is messy, clever, and deeply flawed—exactly the kind of character who makes terrible decisions you can’t look away from. Her relationship with her younger sister Stevie adds emotional weight, grounding the story in survival and sibling loyalty. As the media frenzy builds and the police dig deeper, Jade finds herself juggling fame, fear, and the very real possibility that her con has made her a target. The suspense is taut, and the pacing keeps you flipping pages, even when you want to shake Jade for her choices.
Where the book shines is in its atmosphere and character work. The setting—equal parts Southern charm and small-town menace—feels lived-in, and the supporting cast is as eclectic as a tarot deck. From corrupt politicians to skeptical detectives, each figure adds a layer of intrigue. However, the plot occasionally leans too heavily on coincidence, and some twists feel more convenient than earned. Still, the resolution ties things up with satisfying ambiguity, leaving room for reflection without spoon-feeding closure.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC!
May 23, 2025
The Tarot Reader is the story of two sisters, Jade and Stevie, who run a metaphysical store, but all is not as it seems. They give skewed tarot readings, and siphon information out of their clients to cheat them out of their money. While Jade performs seances, Stevie hides in a secret adjoined room with special effects ready. They are total crooks, but they think they’re just doing what they have to do to survive.
One day, the sisters hear of a missing councilman with a generous reward for any tips being offered, and they cannot help themselves. They submit a fake tip, but it turns out to be right on the money. At first they celebrate their success, but soon they begin to wonder if whoever killed the councilman is now locked on their trail.
This was fairly straightforward, and though there were a few small surprises, I was not floored or shocked by anything I read. For a thriller, this really could’ve been more thrilling. I did appreciate the accurate use of tarot within the story. The spiritual aspects were well-done, but I was left feeling lukewarm about the story as a whole. Three and a quarter stars.
One day, the sisters hear of a missing councilman with a generous reward for any tips being offered, and they cannot help themselves. They submit a fake tip, but it turns out to be right on the money. At first they celebrate their success, but soon they begin to wonder if whoever killed the councilman is now locked on their trail.
This was fairly straightforward, and though there were a few small surprises, I was not floored or shocked by anything I read. For a thriller, this really could’ve been more thrilling. I did appreciate the accurate use of tarot within the story. The spiritual aspects were well-done, but I was left feeling lukewarm about the story as a whole. Three and a quarter stars.
November 19, 2025
3.5 rounded up
October 7, 2025
*Thank you to Crooked Lane for a complimentary arc of the Tarot Reader. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.*
The premise of the plot seemed like the perfect thriller to get me into an October mood - a phone psychic submitting a “psychic vision” to the police tipline about a missing person, then turning out to be right? Then becoming targeted by both the police investigation and the killer? I couldn’t wait to jump into this.
The plot is slow paced, but manages to remain entertaining from the start as you follow the two sisters and their hustle to get by. Mix in some romance, and a lot of creepy occurrences and it made me breeze through the story.
However, while I liked the book, I was also left disappointed. While the concept of the plot is supposed to be based around how Jade gets targeted by the police, and the killer, and there is a murder mystery to solve, I felt like that fell almost into a backdrop of the story until the very end of the book. The only thing that kept my interest while reading this, was the sibling relation between the two leads, and getting invested in their hustling and scheming to get by. For most of the book, I felt like there was more of a focus on the budding romance in one of the sister’s lives than on the murder mystery.
Regardless of that disappointment, I did still have fun reading this, and it did help with bringing me some October feel. Anyone who wants a creepy story with strong sister relations, should consider this one.
The premise of the plot seemed like the perfect thriller to get me into an October mood - a phone psychic submitting a “psychic vision” to the police tipline about a missing person, then turning out to be right? Then becoming targeted by both the police investigation and the killer? I couldn’t wait to jump into this.
The plot is slow paced, but manages to remain entertaining from the start as you follow the two sisters and their hustle to get by. Mix in some romance, and a lot of creepy occurrences and it made me breeze through the story.
However, while I liked the book, I was also left disappointed. While the concept of the plot is supposed to be based around how Jade gets targeted by the police, and the killer, and there is a murder mystery to solve, I felt like that fell almost into a backdrop of the story until the very end of the book. The only thing that kept my interest while reading this, was the sibling relation between the two leads, and getting invested in their hustling and scheming to get by. For most of the book, I felt like there was more of a focus on the budding romance in one of the sister’s lives than on the murder mystery.
Regardless of that disappointment, I did still have fun reading this, and it did help with bringing me some October feel. Anyone who wants a creepy story with strong sister relations, should consider this one.
October 13, 2025
Deception, danger, and a tarot façade that turns deadly. The Tarot Reader lures you in with crystals and séances—and then pulls you into a murder mystery you never saw coming.
October 10, 2025
What a CRAZY RIDE!!
OK. So, this one drew me in right from the beginning! Because, when I was just a kid, one of my neighbors taught me how to read (and interpret) Tarot Cards… and I found out I was pretty good at it… at least for a while….
Until they scared the crap out of me… and then I never picked them up again!
So, yes, I was interested… right from the beginning!
BUT… this is NOT just about Tarot Cards and readings… No. it’s so much more!
It’s about family. It’s about trust. It’s about scams. It’s about death. Neighbors. Neighborhoods. Friends. Enemies. People you can trust. And, people you cannot!
Jade and Stevie are down-on-their-luck sisters. They are trying to make the most of their psychic readings… just to try to keep a roof over their heads. But it seems like they are cursed. Just when they have a few bucks in their pockets, something else happens that causes them to lose everything!
Their father is in jail. Their Mom is gone. And they can’t seem to catch a break…
Although they are really trying to work with what they have, it’s definitely not easy… and sometimes (most times) they need to do things that are just not right…
That being said, there’s still so much going on in this one… and I totally enjoyed it!
Tarot readings. Seances. Spooky messages. Spooky images… and, a bit of romance too! 🩷
4 1/2 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫 for me, happily rounded up to 5!
#TheTarotReader by @FinleyTurner and narrated beautifully by @SarahBethPfeifer.
*** NOT YET RELEASED!! 👀 LOOK 👀 for it on 10/14/25!!! ***
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMedia for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
OK. So, this one drew me in right from the beginning! Because, when I was just a kid, one of my neighbors taught me how to read (and interpret) Tarot Cards… and I found out I was pretty good at it… at least for a while….
Until they scared the crap out of me… and then I never picked them up again!
So, yes, I was interested… right from the beginning!
BUT… this is NOT just about Tarot Cards and readings… No. it’s so much more!
It’s about family. It’s about trust. It’s about scams. It’s about death. Neighbors. Neighborhoods. Friends. Enemies. People you can trust. And, people you cannot!
Jade and Stevie are down-on-their-luck sisters. They are trying to make the most of their psychic readings… just to try to keep a roof over their heads. But it seems like they are cursed. Just when they have a few bucks in their pockets, something else happens that causes them to lose everything!
Their father is in jail. Their Mom is gone. And they can’t seem to catch a break…
Although they are really trying to work with what they have, it’s definitely not easy… and sometimes (most times) they need to do things that are just not right…
That being said, there’s still so much going on in this one… and I totally enjoyed it!
Tarot readings. Seances. Spooky messages. Spooky images… and, a bit of romance too! 🩷
4 1/2 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫 for me, happily rounded up to 5!
#TheTarotReader by @FinleyTurner and narrated beautifully by @SarahBethPfeifer.
*** NOT YET RELEASED!! 👀 LOOK 👀 for it on 10/14/25!!! ***
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMedia for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
October 8, 2025
I had to push myself to actually finish this. A few times I had to go back and check to see if this was YA (it doesn't specify adult, but I'll assume) because it was just kind of juvenile. I would classify this more as just mystery than suspense or thriller because I was never on the edge of my seat and to be honest, I never really cared what was happening.
I'm sure there will be an audience somewhere for this; maybe the cozy mystery fans? I don't know, it was just kind of boring and uneventful.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
I'm sure there will be an audience somewhere for this; maybe the cozy mystery fans? I don't know, it was just kind of boring and uneventful.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
August 29, 2025
I loved the premise of this, but I found myself really not liking the characters. Honestly jade stressed me out so much, and continuously makes stupid decisions. The writing was great, story was alright, but those characters..ouch
Thanks to NetGalley for the copy of this ARC. This will be out in October of 2025.
Thanks to NetGalley for the copy of this ARC. This will be out in October of 2025.
October 24, 2025
A great sister thriller that is perfect for spooky season where it provides the right amount of suspense without being too much.
4.5
4.5
October 6, 2025
I had the opportunity to enjoy this as an audiobook!
The narrator did a fantastic job at making you feel the atmosphere of the story and giving the right tones and voices throughout the story. She kept a good pace throughout and I knew when they were talking vs. when they were thinking. A great listen to put you in the spirit of fall and spooky season!
The books plot was really interesting, a fraud tarot reader that is desperate to get money and ends up calling the authorities about a tip for a missing person case. Then it just continues to snowball from there. The story kept me engaged and interested on what was going to happen next.
I didn’t really connect with the main character, Jade. It was just hard for me to sympathize with her or be okay with what was happening. She kept making decisions that angered me. However, what kept me interested was her sister, Stevie, I was intrigued with her story and enjoyed when she was involved. I thought overall the story was entertaining and I enjoyed myself.
3.5 stars but rounding up for goodreads!
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
The narrator did a fantastic job at making you feel the atmosphere of the story and giving the right tones and voices throughout the story. She kept a good pace throughout and I knew when they were talking vs. when they were thinking. A great listen to put you in the spirit of fall and spooky season!
The books plot was really interesting, a fraud tarot reader that is desperate to get money and ends up calling the authorities about a tip for a missing person case. Then it just continues to snowball from there. The story kept me engaged and interested on what was going to happen next.
I didn’t really connect with the main character, Jade. It was just hard for me to sympathize with her or be okay with what was happening. She kept making decisions that angered me. However, what kept me interested was her sister, Stevie, I was intrigued with her story and enjoyed when she was involved. I thought overall the story was entertaining and I enjoyed myself.
3.5 stars but rounding up for goodreads!
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
October 12, 2025
In Finley Turner's captivating novel, THE TAROT READER, a seemingly innocuous psychic vision takes a dramatic turn when a woman unexpectedly becomes entangled in a murder investigation.
Meet twenty-five-year-old Jade Crawford, who spends her days immersed in the mystical world of crystals, conducting séances, and reading tarot cards at her enchanting shop in Winston-Salem, NC. This gripping, witty, and eerie mystery is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat!
Life hasn’t been easy for these sisters, but it is about to get a whole lot more complex.
About...
The Sisters
25-year-old Jade Crawford runs a tarot reading and psychic shop, Ravencroft Psychic Parlor and Shoppe in Winston-Salem, N.C.
Following the tragic loss of their mother in an accident and their father's imprisonment, Jade and her younger sister, Stevie, are grappling with financial hardship. Jade is determined to secure funds for Stevie's education, envisioning a brighter future for her sister. Also, their dad is getting out of prison, but they cannot count on him.
The Facade
To attract more clients and generate income, Jade resorts to parlor tricks and deceit, as she lacks genuine psychic abilities. The pressing need to cover rent and basic living expenses drives her to these desperate measures.
The Lie:
When a local politician mysteriously disappears, Jade perceives a golden opportunity. She submits a fabricated "psychic vision" to the police tip line, hoping to garner attention and attract new customers to her struggling business.
The Shocker
To Jade's astonishment, her fabricated vision turns out to be eerily accurate, leading to the discovery of the politician's body precisely as she described. Suddenly thrust into the limelight, she embraces her newfound fame and success. However, this attention also makes her and Stevie vulnerable to unforeseen dangers.
The Investigation
Jade's rise as a renowned psychic places her squarely in the midst of a police investigation. Initially skeptical, detectives begin to question her potential involvement, raising the stakes for Jade and Stevie.
The Entanglement
As the investigation unfolds, Jade finds herself entangled in a murder inquiry while a killer remains on the loose. She must navigate this perilous situation to uncover the truth and protect both herself and Stevie from becoming the next victims.
Deceptions
Are Jade and Stevie's past deceptions catching up with them? Is it their father, his associates, or perhaps someone entirely unexpected? With threats looming, they must confront the reality of their choices. Who is behind the danger, and how will they seek justice?
My thoughts...
I was absolutely delighted to discover that the novel is set in Winston-Salem, NC, where the author resides. This city holds a special place in my heart, as I lived there during my early career, from the time my sons were in kindergarten until college. After that, I made my way to Atlanta and then Florida, but my grown sons still call Winston-Salem home. Reading this novel felt like a nostalgic visit back to a chapter of my life.
Additionally, I have a deep fascination with Tarot card readers and psychics. My experiences in New Orleans have left me with intriguing stories that came to life after a tarot reading. The allure of the mystical world captivates me.
This delightful cozy mystery follows Jade as she endeavors to clear her name and protect her sister while outsmarting both the police and a murderer.
The narrative is filled with crackling adventures, wit, and humor, featuring a whirlwind of cons, tricks, mischief, family, neighbors, friends, and foes. The sisters find themselves in a myriad of predicaments, learning street smarts from their father, yet often making questionable choices. Their strong bond is commendable, even as they navigate the chaos of their decisions.
THE TAROT READER by Finley Turner is a captivating blend of mystery, deceit, and self-discovery, and family sprinkled with just the right amount of psychic intrigue to keep readers engaged. I would classify this as more of a cozy mystery than a thriller.
Perfectly suited for the Halloween season, this book is infused with tarot readings, spooky séances, corrupt politicians, chilling messages, séances, a murder, and mystical adventures. “The Tarot Reader” masterfully intertwines elements of mystery, family drama, and self-discovery, making it a fun listen.
The audiobook...
I enjoyed THE TAROT READER audiobook narrated by the incredibly talented Sarah Beth Pfeifer. Her captivating storytelling effortlessly blends suspense, wit, mystery, and intrigue, breathing life into an eclectic cast of zany characters through a dynamic performance. You’ll find yourself completely hooked and thoroughly entertained!
Special thanks to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for providing an advanced listening copy in exchange for my honest feedback. It's always a pleasure to discover new and talented authors!
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 4 Stars
Pub date: Oct 14, 2025
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Meet twenty-five-year-old Jade Crawford, who spends her days immersed in the mystical world of crystals, conducting séances, and reading tarot cards at her enchanting shop in Winston-Salem, NC. This gripping, witty, and eerie mystery is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat!
Life hasn’t been easy for these sisters, but it is about to get a whole lot more complex.
About...
The Sisters
25-year-old Jade Crawford runs a tarot reading and psychic shop, Ravencroft Psychic Parlor and Shoppe in Winston-Salem, N.C.
Following the tragic loss of their mother in an accident and their father's imprisonment, Jade and her younger sister, Stevie, are grappling with financial hardship. Jade is determined to secure funds for Stevie's education, envisioning a brighter future for her sister. Also, their dad is getting out of prison, but they cannot count on him.
The Facade
To attract more clients and generate income, Jade resorts to parlor tricks and deceit, as she lacks genuine psychic abilities. The pressing need to cover rent and basic living expenses drives her to these desperate measures.
The Lie:
When a local politician mysteriously disappears, Jade perceives a golden opportunity. She submits a fabricated "psychic vision" to the police tip line, hoping to garner attention and attract new customers to her struggling business.
The Shocker
To Jade's astonishment, her fabricated vision turns out to be eerily accurate, leading to the discovery of the politician's body precisely as she described. Suddenly thrust into the limelight, she embraces her newfound fame and success. However, this attention also makes her and Stevie vulnerable to unforeseen dangers.
The Investigation
Jade's rise as a renowned psychic places her squarely in the midst of a police investigation. Initially skeptical, detectives begin to question her potential involvement, raising the stakes for Jade and Stevie.
The Entanglement
As the investigation unfolds, Jade finds herself entangled in a murder inquiry while a killer remains on the loose. She must navigate this perilous situation to uncover the truth and protect both herself and Stevie from becoming the next victims.
Deceptions
Are Jade and Stevie's past deceptions catching up with them? Is it their father, his associates, or perhaps someone entirely unexpected? With threats looming, they must confront the reality of their choices. Who is behind the danger, and how will they seek justice?
My thoughts...
I was absolutely delighted to discover that the novel is set in Winston-Salem, NC, where the author resides. This city holds a special place in my heart, as I lived there during my early career, from the time my sons were in kindergarten until college. After that, I made my way to Atlanta and then Florida, but my grown sons still call Winston-Salem home. Reading this novel felt like a nostalgic visit back to a chapter of my life.
Additionally, I have a deep fascination with Tarot card readers and psychics. My experiences in New Orleans have left me with intriguing stories that came to life after a tarot reading. The allure of the mystical world captivates me.
This delightful cozy mystery follows Jade as she endeavors to clear her name and protect her sister while outsmarting both the police and a murderer.
The narrative is filled with crackling adventures, wit, and humor, featuring a whirlwind of cons, tricks, mischief, family, neighbors, friends, and foes. The sisters find themselves in a myriad of predicaments, learning street smarts from their father, yet often making questionable choices. Their strong bond is commendable, even as they navigate the chaos of their decisions.
THE TAROT READER by Finley Turner is a captivating blend of mystery, deceit, and self-discovery, and family sprinkled with just the right amount of psychic intrigue to keep readers engaged. I would classify this as more of a cozy mystery than a thriller.
Perfectly suited for the Halloween season, this book is infused with tarot readings, spooky séances, corrupt politicians, chilling messages, séances, a murder, and mystical adventures. “The Tarot Reader” masterfully intertwines elements of mystery, family drama, and self-discovery, making it a fun listen.
The audiobook...
I enjoyed THE TAROT READER audiobook narrated by the incredibly talented Sarah Beth Pfeifer. Her captivating storytelling effortlessly blends suspense, wit, mystery, and intrigue, breathing life into an eclectic cast of zany characters through a dynamic performance. You’ll find yourself completely hooked and thoroughly entertained!
Special thanks to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for providing an advanced listening copy in exchange for my honest feedback. It's always a pleasure to discover new and talented authors!
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 4 Stars
Pub date: Oct 14, 2025
Oct 2025 Must-Read Books
Oct Newsletter
September 28, 2025
Thrillers aren’t normally my cup of tea, but when I saw “The Tarot Reader,” I knew I had to give it a shot, and I’m so glad I did!
Twenty-five-year-old Jade Crawford spends her days selling crystals, conducting séances, and reading tarot cards in her shop in Winston-Salem, NC. But her connection to the other side is all a facade. After losing their mother to a terrible accident and their father serving jail time, Jade and her younger sister Stevie do what they can to survive. When a local politician goes missing, Jade sees a lucrative opportunity to drum up new clients and inject some much-needed cash into their pockets.
Jade submits a “psychic vision” to the police tipline only to discover that her shot in the dark is chillingly accurate when the police find the politician’s body. Caught in a media whirlwind, Jade revels in her newfound popularity and success, but she quickly finds herself the target of not only a police investigation but of the killer who is still on the loose.
You know those scrambler rides at fairs and theme parks? The ones that throw you around all over the place? That is exactly how I felt with my love and hatred for Jade and Stevie throughout this book. I did, however, feel a redeeming sense of love for Stevie by the end- Jade, not so much. But it’s a mark of a stunning story to make you feel so much emotion toward fictional characters.
I can’t talk too much about the storyline for fear of giving out spoilers, but as a tarot-reading witch, I loved seeing how Jade interpreted the cards for her clients, and as a therapist, there was physical pain and anger during certain parts of this book. The audiobook narrator was incredible! The story itself is so beautifully written, although the “twists” are revealed earlier in the story if you’re paying attention. By the end, it was a “good for her” story that I’m glad I decided to take a chance on.
Thank you to Finley Turner, Dreamscape Media, and NetGalley for the ARC Audiobook. “The Tarot Reader” is out October 14th! Preorder it at your favorite local bookstore.
Twenty-five-year-old Jade Crawford spends her days selling crystals, conducting séances, and reading tarot cards in her shop in Winston-Salem, NC. But her connection to the other side is all a facade. After losing their mother to a terrible accident and their father serving jail time, Jade and her younger sister Stevie do what they can to survive. When a local politician goes missing, Jade sees a lucrative opportunity to drum up new clients and inject some much-needed cash into their pockets.
Jade submits a “psychic vision” to the police tipline only to discover that her shot in the dark is chillingly accurate when the police find the politician’s body. Caught in a media whirlwind, Jade revels in her newfound popularity and success, but she quickly finds herself the target of not only a police investigation but of the killer who is still on the loose.
You know those scrambler rides at fairs and theme parks? The ones that throw you around all over the place? That is exactly how I felt with my love and hatred for Jade and Stevie throughout this book. I did, however, feel a redeeming sense of love for Stevie by the end- Jade, not so much. But it’s a mark of a stunning story to make you feel so much emotion toward fictional characters.
I can’t talk too much about the storyline for fear of giving out spoilers, but as a tarot-reading witch, I loved seeing how Jade interpreted the cards for her clients, and as a therapist, there was physical pain and anger during certain parts of this book. The audiobook narrator was incredible! The story itself is so beautifully written, although the “twists” are revealed earlier in the story if you’re paying attention. By the end, it was a “good for her” story that I’m glad I decided to take a chance on.
Thank you to Finley Turner, Dreamscape Media, and NetGalley for the ARC Audiobook. “The Tarot Reader” is out October 14th! Preorder it at your favorite local bookstore.
September 22, 2025
Many thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing me with an eARC of The Tarot Reader in exchange for my honest review!
While this can afford to be tightened up, it still compels me with its mysterious atmosphere and the tension of its central dysfunctional family. Jade makes for a fairly endearing protagonist who encourages me to become invested in her, even while she makes some of the most foolish choices that endanger the safety of herself and the people around her. But her rocky relationships with her family members, the mistreatment and manipulation she's endured, and the gritty determination she summons up to survive in this ruthless world all help me connect with her. I additionally appreciate that we not only focus on her POV, but also her sister Stevie's viewpoint so that we're able to further flesh out our understanding of what what the two sisters have undergone, especially under their father's neglectful care.
As much as I'm able to dive into the narrative, though, I'll also admit that it doesn't fully succeed at laying out its mystery. This specific element just drifts along a lot of the time, and once it reaches its resolution, it doesn't hit me with as powerful of a punch as it could have. At least I have Jade and Stevie to keep me riveted, as well as the suspenseful mood that traps me within the secretive and distrustful air hanging over this small town. It's a vibe that meshes quite smoothly with the con artistry that Jade carries out via her psychic shop in Winston-Salem, NC.
Even if I have my quibbles with the epilogue and how it strikes me as putting too neat of a bow on the overarching tale, I emerge from this book on a note that's positive enough for me to give this an overall rating of 3.75 out of 5 stars, which I'll round up to 4 stars. I'll keep an eye out for more of Finley Turner's work.
While this can afford to be tightened up, it still compels me with its mysterious atmosphere and the tension of its central dysfunctional family. Jade makes for a fairly endearing protagonist who encourages me to become invested in her, even while she makes some of the most foolish choices that endanger the safety of herself and the people around her. But her rocky relationships with her family members, the mistreatment and manipulation she's endured, and the gritty determination she summons up to survive in this ruthless world all help me connect with her. I additionally appreciate that we not only focus on her POV, but also her sister Stevie's viewpoint so that we're able to further flesh out our understanding of what what the two sisters have undergone, especially under their father's neglectful care.
As much as I'm able to dive into the narrative, though, I'll also admit that it doesn't fully succeed at laying out its mystery. This specific element just drifts along a lot of the time, and once it reaches its resolution, it doesn't hit me with as powerful of a punch as it could have. At least I have Jade and Stevie to keep me riveted, as well as the suspenseful mood that traps me within the secretive and distrustful air hanging over this small town. It's a vibe that meshes quite smoothly with the con artistry that Jade carries out via her psychic shop in Winston-Salem, NC.
Even if I have my quibbles with the epilogue and how it strikes me as putting too neat of a bow on the overarching tale, I emerge from this book on a note that's positive enough for me to give this an overall rating of 3.75 out of 5 stars, which I'll round up to 4 stars. I'll keep an eye out for more of Finley Turner's work.
September 20, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the advanced audiobook
3.5 stars
Jade Crawford spends her days conning people out of their money by pretending to be a psychic, in order to take care of herself and her younger sister Stevie. When she and Stevie come across a lost dog and then the poster offering a reward for the dog, they decide to give their psychic business a boost by calling the owner with a psychic vision of where the dog is. So when a local councilman goes missing, Jade decides to call in a tip, in the hopes that she might be just correct enough to get the reward money. But then the police show up at her door because her tip was exactly right and they now suspect her of being involved in the councilman's disappearance. With the police and a cynical journalist seeming to follow Jade everywhere--and a killer still on the loose--Jade must tap into the deepest of her reserves to sell herself as a psychic and save hers and Stevie's lives.
This was a solid mystery/thriller that gained some interest in its setting (in North Carolina instead of a big, overly written about city) and the fact that Jade knows she's a fraud but still wants to be a good person. There were some elements of the story that didn't entirely hang together for me, including some of the reveals at the end, but the questions the author brings up about what constitutes actual psychic skills and whether someone who doesn't believe can still be haunted added layers. As a listening experience, the two narrators sounded a little too much alike so that sometimes I couldn't tell whose perspective we were in (Jade or Stevie). But for those who are voracious readers of this genre, this is a good book to pick up.
The Tarot Reader is out October 14, 2025
3.5 stars
Jade Crawford spends her days conning people out of their money by pretending to be a psychic, in order to take care of herself and her younger sister Stevie. When she and Stevie come across a lost dog and then the poster offering a reward for the dog, they decide to give their psychic business a boost by calling the owner with a psychic vision of where the dog is. So when a local councilman goes missing, Jade decides to call in a tip, in the hopes that she might be just correct enough to get the reward money. But then the police show up at her door because her tip was exactly right and they now suspect her of being involved in the councilman's disappearance. With the police and a cynical journalist seeming to follow Jade everywhere--and a killer still on the loose--Jade must tap into the deepest of her reserves to sell herself as a psychic and save hers and Stevie's lives.
This was a solid mystery/thriller that gained some interest in its setting (in North Carolina instead of a big, overly written about city) and the fact that Jade knows she's a fraud but still wants to be a good person. There were some elements of the story that didn't entirely hang together for me, including some of the reveals at the end, but the questions the author brings up about what constitutes actual psychic skills and whether someone who doesn't believe can still be haunted added layers. As a listening experience, the two narrators sounded a little too much alike so that sometimes I couldn't tell whose perspective we were in (Jade or Stevie). But for those who are voracious readers of this genre, this is a good book to pick up.
The Tarot Reader is out October 14, 2025
October 7, 2025
Jade Crawford and her sister Stevie live in Winston Salem, North Carolina. Jade claims to be a psychic (a fake phychic), Stevie helps her by gathering information about people and running the backroom where she controls certain aspects of seances, she helps sell crystals and occasionally reads tarot cards. They are barely making ends meet when they receive notice their rent is going up. Knowing they must find a way to generate more income, Jade comes up with an idea. The sisters hear a councilman is missing and there is a very nice reward for information leading to finding him. She calls the police tipline and tells them she is psychic and had a vision concerning a missing politician. Shockingly she gives actual details. The publicity does generate more business. Then the unthinkable someone breaks into their home. Could they be the killer’s next target? One lie always leads to another. The sisters try to keep up their pretense as long as they can but when their father is released from prison their plan begins to implode.
One of the sisters has a secret which eventually comes to light. A psychologist lives next door to the girls. There were the beginnings of a romance; it was disappointing that it did not last. There were times when I suspected he was the culprit. It isn’t until the end of the book when the real killer is revealed.
The plot of The Tarot Reader was interesting. The characters: I liked Jade even though she was a fraud. Stevie was ok but at times she seemed a bit selfish. The next-door neighbor seemed headed toward a romance with Jade but that never got off the ground, disappointing. At first their father seemed vindictive but toward the end I saw he was headed toward a change.
One of the sisters has a secret which eventually comes to light. A psychologist lives next door to the girls. There were the beginnings of a romance; it was disappointing that it did not last. There were times when I suspected he was the culprit. It isn’t until the end of the book when the real killer is revealed.
The plot of The Tarot Reader was interesting. The characters: I liked Jade even though she was a fraud. Stevie was ok but at times she seemed a bit selfish. The next-door neighbor seemed headed toward a romance with Jade but that never got off the ground, disappointing. At first their father seemed vindictive but toward the end I saw he was headed toward a change.
October 15, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC!
The Tarot Reader immediately grabbed my attention with its intriguing premise tarot, secrets, and a sinister undertone all wrapped in a domestic suspense vibe. I love when thrillers blend the mystical with the psychological, and this book definitely delivered on atmosphere. There’s a constant tension in the air, and the tarot elements added an eerie, symbolic layer that made the story feel unique. I enjoyed the setup and the overall concept, and there were moments where I was fully invested, trying to piece together what was real, what was fate, and what was manipulation.
However, as the story progressed, I found myself struggling with the pacing. Some sections moved slowly and felt more like filler than plot development, which made the tension dip at times. I also had a harder time connecting to the characters while they were interesting, their motivations weren’t always clear, and I wished their relationships had been explored a bit deeper to increase the emotional impact. The mystery itself had potential, but a few twists felt predictable or didn’t land as strongly as they could have. The ending tied things together but didn’t leave the jaw drop I was hoping for.
Overall, The Tarot Reader has a creative premise and some compelling moments, especially with its atmospheric tarot elements, but the execution didn’t fully live up to the potential. It’s a decent read with an interesting concept, but I wanted more depth, stronger character development, and a faster pace to really elevate the suspense. Still, if you enjoy slow burn domestic thrillers with a mystical edge, this one might be worth checking out.
The Tarot Reader immediately grabbed my attention with its intriguing premise tarot, secrets, and a sinister undertone all wrapped in a domestic suspense vibe. I love when thrillers blend the mystical with the psychological, and this book definitely delivered on atmosphere. There’s a constant tension in the air, and the tarot elements added an eerie, symbolic layer that made the story feel unique. I enjoyed the setup and the overall concept, and there were moments where I was fully invested, trying to piece together what was real, what was fate, and what was manipulation.
However, as the story progressed, I found myself struggling with the pacing. Some sections moved slowly and felt more like filler than plot development, which made the tension dip at times. I also had a harder time connecting to the characters while they were interesting, their motivations weren’t always clear, and I wished their relationships had been explored a bit deeper to increase the emotional impact. The mystery itself had potential, but a few twists felt predictable or didn’t land as strongly as they could have. The ending tied things together but didn’t leave the jaw drop I was hoping for.
Overall, The Tarot Reader has a creative premise and some compelling moments, especially with its atmospheric tarot elements, but the execution didn’t fully live up to the potential. It’s a decent read with an interesting concept, but I wanted more depth, stronger character development, and a faster pace to really elevate the suspense. Still, if you enjoy slow burn domestic thrillers with a mystical edge, this one might be worth checking out.
May 18, 2025
Jade Turner’s façade of her tarot / séance business. Her readings are based on her understanding of personalities, parlor tricks, and utilizing stereotypes of readers. This is a story about skepticism and what type of consequences can lead to. This started off a promising with the lead that this was going to be a fun adventure. She is manipulating the crowds before their eyes because she is giving a performance of what the audience wants to see in their most vulnerable moments.
Her interaction with the police is intended to be a ploy for credibility that turns out to disprove her own skepticism of her career. Now she needs to mend her own beliefs. There are inconsistences as she questions how she came to these answers and she feels like the detective is on to her wicked tricks. What I really wanted from this novel was an established setting that goes beyond telling us it is spooky. I want to see, here, and feel that spooky ambience. Spooky is subjective and I think the tarot element could have been used more to highlight that. This also felt like it wants to be a contemporary gothic tale warning about the dangers of lies and secrets that we keep. I wanted a more elaborate diction. That is what keeps this for me at a 3 out of 5.
The premise is fun and a bit too whimsical for a thriller . A simple tale about lies and deceits that put you on a path you cannot stray from. What does that say about our selfish desires when we indulge too far? Thank you Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the advanced digital copy for an honest review.
Her interaction with the police is intended to be a ploy for credibility that turns out to disprove her own skepticism of her career. Now she needs to mend her own beliefs. There are inconsistences as she questions how she came to these answers and she feels like the detective is on to her wicked tricks. What I really wanted from this novel was an established setting that goes beyond telling us it is spooky. I want to see, here, and feel that spooky ambience. Spooky is subjective and I think the tarot element could have been used more to highlight that. This also felt like it wants to be a contemporary gothic tale warning about the dangers of lies and secrets that we keep. I wanted a more elaborate diction. That is what keeps this for me at a 3 out of 5.
The premise is fun and a bit too whimsical for a thriller . A simple tale about lies and deceits that put you on a path you cannot stray from. What does that say about our selfish desires when we indulge too far? Thank you Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the advanced digital copy for an honest review.
September 21, 2025
3.5✨.
The Tarot Reader by Finley Tucker follows two sisters trying to scrape by in the spiritual/psychic business. Jade, our main character, and her sister Stevie run a small shop where Jade pretends to channel spirits and read tarot cards — tricks they picked up from their con-artist parents. (Their mother died in a car accident, while their father has just been released from prison.) In a desperate attempt to draw attention to their struggling shop, Jade calls in a tip about a recent local murder — a wild guess that ends up hitting uncomfortably close to the truth.
This was a decent read overall, but at times frustrating. I wanted to like Jade and root for her, but she continually made reckless decisions — all while insisting she didn’t want to end up like her father. 👀🙄😬 Stevie, on the other hand, was much more grounded and relatable, and I found myself liking her character far more.
One thing I really did enjoy was the setting — the shop, their home, and the places they ventured throughout the story were all easy to picture thanks to vivid imagery and well-done descriptions. It added a nice grounding element to the plot, even when the choices of the characters felt a bit unmoored.
The book had a fair share of suspense and twists that kept me engaged, but some plot holes and lack of realistic closure around the various cons being run left the story feeling unfinished.
All in all, it was enjoyable and entertaining enough, but it could have been stronger with tighter plotting and more satisfying resolutions.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this ALC.
The Tarot Reader by Finley Tucker follows two sisters trying to scrape by in the spiritual/psychic business. Jade, our main character, and her sister Stevie run a small shop where Jade pretends to channel spirits and read tarot cards — tricks they picked up from their con-artist parents. (Their mother died in a car accident, while their father has just been released from prison.) In a desperate attempt to draw attention to their struggling shop, Jade calls in a tip about a recent local murder — a wild guess that ends up hitting uncomfortably close to the truth.
This was a decent read overall, but at times frustrating. I wanted to like Jade and root for her, but she continually made reckless decisions — all while insisting she didn’t want to end up like her father. 👀🙄😬 Stevie, on the other hand, was much more grounded and relatable, and I found myself liking her character far more.
One thing I really did enjoy was the setting — the shop, their home, and the places they ventured throughout the story were all easy to picture thanks to vivid imagery and well-done descriptions. It added a nice grounding element to the plot, even when the choices of the characters felt a bit unmoored.
The book had a fair share of suspense and twists that kept me engaged, but some plot holes and lack of realistic closure around the various cons being run left the story feeling unfinished.
All in all, it was enjoyable and entertaining enough, but it could have been stronger with tighter plotting and more satisfying resolutions.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this ALC.
October 2, 2025
3.75/5. Thanks to Netgalley, Finley Turner, and the publisher for this ALC!
I think this book had two really interesting stories forced together into one story. First, we have the story of Jade and her sister, Stevie, trying to make it by with a family history of con-artistry, a dad just released from jail (who Jade very much does NOT want to see), a mother who had died while fleeing a crime, and no real career prospects other than running a fake psychic shop. The story of their survival and how Jade has to find money when one bad thing happens after the other runs its course from being discovered to gaining fame.
The divergent story, and the one that I think needed a little more work, was that Jade's fame came from giving a false "psychic vision" about where to find a missing town politician which turns out to be true. That is the story I think I was really here for, more of a traditional mystery. But really, it seemed more family drama that tied into a mystery, which tied into another mystery...
Overall, I enjoyed it. I found Jade and Stevie to be interesting characters. I would have followed them in either story. What I wanted was a little more of that second plot to come out.
Speaking on audio production, I really enjoy Sarah Beth Pfeifer. She's one that I come back to listen to. And I think she did the two sister's in a very different way that was instantly recognizable. I appreciate that when listening. The production was also fantastic.
I think this book had two really interesting stories forced together into one story. First, we have the story of Jade and her sister, Stevie, trying to make it by with a family history of con-artistry, a dad just released from jail (who Jade very much does NOT want to see), a mother who had died while fleeing a crime, and no real career prospects other than running a fake psychic shop. The story of their survival and how Jade has to find money when one bad thing happens after the other runs its course from being discovered to gaining fame.
The divergent story, and the one that I think needed a little more work, was that Jade's fame came from giving a false "psychic vision" about where to find a missing town politician which turns out to be true. That is the story I think I was really here for, more of a traditional mystery. But really, it seemed more family drama that tied into a mystery, which tied into another mystery...
Overall, I enjoyed it. I found Jade and Stevie to be interesting characters. I would have followed them in either story. What I wanted was a little more of that second plot to come out.
Speaking on audio production, I really enjoy Sarah Beth Pfeifer. She's one that I come back to listen to. And I think she did the two sister's in a very different way that was instantly recognizable. I appreciate that when listening. The production was also fantastic.
September 18, 2025
3.75/5
This review is for the audio version of the book, narrated by Sarah Beth Pfeifer.
Jade and Stevie (sisters) are just trying to get by. They run a small occult shop where they Jade performs Tarot readings and "communes" with the dead in an effort to help people find some closure.
It's all a scam, but they figure they're helping people move on and find peace after the death of a loved one, so they may as well get paid for it.
When they have the idea to randomly call in a tip about a missing man (in the hopes that it could drum up business if they're mentioned in connection with the investigation) they're completely surprised when their tip turns up the man's body.
That's when their past starts to come back to haunt them.
This was kind of fun. The characters were a bit on the rough side. Jade likes to constantly put herself above the previous generations of her family, but still makes the same mistakes. Over and over.
Stevie was great. She was easy to cheer on and definitely read as being more mature than her older sister.
The plot was decent. I did not connect the pieces until the author laid it out in the end. The big "twist" that you think you see coming, never fully materializes because it's nothing like what you imagine it to be.
This was worth the time to read.
This review is for the audio version of the book, narrated by Sarah Beth Pfeifer.
Jade and Stevie (sisters) are just trying to get by. They run a small occult shop where they Jade performs Tarot readings and "communes" with the dead in an effort to help people find some closure.
It's all a scam, but they figure they're helping people move on and find peace after the death of a loved one, so they may as well get paid for it.
When they have the idea to randomly call in a tip about a missing man (in the hopes that it could drum up business if they're mentioned in connection with the investigation) they're completely surprised when their tip turns up the man's body.
That's when their past starts to come back to haunt them.
This was kind of fun. The characters were a bit on the rough side. Jade likes to constantly put herself above the previous generations of her family, but still makes the same mistakes. Over and over.
Stevie was great. She was easy to cheer on and definitely read as being more mature than her older sister.
The plot was decent. I did not connect the pieces until the author laid it out in the end. The big "twist" that you think you see coming, never fully materializes because it's nothing like what you imagine it to be.
This was worth the time to read.
October 6, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Jade is a fake psychic who gives tarot and palm readings and hosts seances, with her bartender sister Stevie feeding her gossip and details from bar patrons to help pull off the act. But when Jade, desperate over a rent increase, calls in a fake tip about a missing Councilman, she’s shocked when it turns out to be true, and the Councilman is found dead. Suddenly, Jade finds herself tangled in a real murder investigation, and her “psychic vision” is under serious scrutiny.
I appreciated the originality of the premise and the cozy, atmospheric descriptions of the sisters’ shop. The bond between Jade and Stevie was a highlight, and the setup had potential to be a quirky, entertaining mystery. However, the execution fell flat for me. The pacing was uneven, slow in places where I wanted more momentum, and rushed where more depth would have helped.
Most of all, I struggled to connect with the main characters. Jade and Stevie are unapologetic grifters, and while that could’ve made for a fun dynamic, I found them more frustrating than charming. It was hard to root for them, especially when their cons hurt innocent people.
This one didn’t quite hit the mark for me, but I can see the appeal for readers who enjoy morally gray characters and a unique twist on cozy mysteries.
Jade is a fake psychic who gives tarot and palm readings and hosts seances, with her bartender sister Stevie feeding her gossip and details from bar patrons to help pull off the act. But when Jade, desperate over a rent increase, calls in a fake tip about a missing Councilman, she’s shocked when it turns out to be true, and the Councilman is found dead. Suddenly, Jade finds herself tangled in a real murder investigation, and her “psychic vision” is under serious scrutiny.
I appreciated the originality of the premise and the cozy, atmospheric descriptions of the sisters’ shop. The bond between Jade and Stevie was a highlight, and the setup had potential to be a quirky, entertaining mystery. However, the execution fell flat for me. The pacing was uneven, slow in places where I wanted more momentum, and rushed where more depth would have helped.
Most of all, I struggled to connect with the main characters. Jade and Stevie are unapologetic grifters, and while that could’ve made for a fun dynamic, I found them more frustrating than charming. It was hard to root for them, especially when their cons hurt innocent people.
This one didn’t quite hit the mark for me, but I can see the appeal for readers who enjoy morally gray characters and a unique twist on cozy mysteries.
October 13, 2025
I’m thankful for the opportunity to give my honest review of this ARC from NetGalley.
As you can see this was a 4 star read for me. I really enjoyed it. The whole time I was so interested in the Crawford sister’s story. I love a good murder mystery, and this kept me on the edge of my seat thinking I knew who did it and what the next part would be but I was so wrong.
It was paced quite well, with good filler in there for us to get a deeper understanding of Jade and Stevie. I feel like there were some crazy twists that truly made sense. I did want the boyfriend to be some crazy stalker and for a second there I was thought he was but was a little bummed he wasn’t. But that was just my toxic self LOL. I really was on edge trying to figure out who was messing with her so much, I didn’t believe it was their dad because that would be too easy.
The narrator was also SO perfect, they did a wonderful job of capturing the tone and characters so well to truly give me a bigger picture than just reading the words myself.
However I needed it to be more realistic in which she should have been arrested for scamming everyone in the town and taking their money. I don’t think this book should have had a HEA in regard to reality of her scamming the whole town and also breaking into someone’s house.
I would recommend this as a good murder muster read for sure!
As you can see this was a 4 star read for me. I really enjoyed it. The whole time I was so interested in the Crawford sister’s story. I love a good murder mystery, and this kept me on the edge of my seat thinking I knew who did it and what the next part would be but I was so wrong.
It was paced quite well, with good filler in there for us to get a deeper understanding of Jade and Stevie. I feel like there were some crazy twists that truly made sense. I did want the boyfriend to be some crazy stalker and for a second there I was thought he was but was a little bummed he wasn’t. But that was just my toxic self LOL. I really was on edge trying to figure out who was messing with her so much, I didn’t believe it was their dad because that would be too easy.
The narrator was also SO perfect, they did a wonderful job of capturing the tone and characters so well to truly give me a bigger picture than just reading the words myself.
However I needed it to be more realistic in which she should have been arrested for scamming everyone in the town and taking their money. I don’t think this book should have had a HEA in regard to reality of her scamming the whole town and also breaking into someone’s house.
I would recommend this as a good murder muster read for sure!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2025
The main chunk of the book is about two sisters: Jade and Stevie, who come from a long line of crooks. They run a metaphysical shop together, but it's all a sham. While Jade performs seances, Stevie hides in a secret adjoined room with special effects ready to scam people into believing that ghosts are real. They skew tarot readings, find out information from their clients to lie about people from beyond the grave reaching out to them to cheat their clients out of money. They are crooks who are just doing what they have to do to survive.
When the local councilman goes missing, she calls in a fake tip to the hotline, hoping to get the reward money. However, the issue arises when the tip ends up being real.
As the book progresses, both Jade and Stevie begin to wonder who the real killer is.
Overall, this book disappointed me and left me wanting more in terms of the mystery because the hints to who it could be were too obvious. I'm giving this book two out of five stars.
Unfortunately, I wish this book could be so much more that it was, but I felt like was scammed by Jade's charm as well.
Read my full review here: https://bellaandbooks5.wordpress.com/...
When the local councilman goes missing, she calls in a fake tip to the hotline, hoping to get the reward money. However, the issue arises when the tip ends up being real.
As the book progresses, both Jade and Stevie begin to wonder who the real killer is.
Overall, this book disappointed me and left me wanting more in terms of the mystery because the hints to who it could be were too obvious. I'm giving this book two out of five stars.
Unfortunately, I wish this book could be so much more that it was, but I felt like was scammed by Jade's charm as well.
Read my full review here: https://bellaandbooks5.wordpress.com/...
September 17, 2025
Jade is a fake psychic giving people tarot and palm readings and holding seances; her sister Stevie is a bartender who helpfully collects information from the patrons for Jade's readings. When Jade finds out her rent is being raised she becomes a bit desperate and calls in a fake tip about a Councilman's disappearance. She's not the only one completely shocked when her tip turns out to be correct, and the police locate the Councilman's dead body. The police, however, aren't really buying the whole "psychic vision" thing, and Jade finds herself in the midst of a murder investigation.
I liked Jade at the beginning of the book, she was providing "psychic" entertainment and doing more good than harm. But she progressively became more and more unethical as the book progressed, and by the end I felt that she brought nearly all that happened upon herself. The "mystery" was a bit disjointed. I didn't love the book, but the writing and narration were good. I have trouble identifying with the main character, and felt more sympathy for Stevie, and connected more to her POV chapters.
Trigger warning: sexual assault of minors (discussed not detailed)
I received an ARC of this audiobook from #NetGalley
I liked Jade at the beginning of the book, she was providing "psychic" entertainment and doing more good than harm. But she progressively became more and more unethical as the book progressed, and by the end I felt that she brought nearly all that happened upon herself. The "mystery" was a bit disjointed. I didn't love the book, but the writing and narration were good. I have trouble identifying with the main character, and felt more sympathy for Stevie, and connected more to her POV chapters.
Trigger warning: sexual assault of minors (discussed not detailed)
I received an ARC of this audiobook from #NetGalley
October 15, 2025
I recommend this book for readers who enjoy flawed protagonists navigating chaotic situations.
In "The Tarot Reader" by Finley Turner, sisters Jade and Stevie run a sham psychic parlor. When Jade fabricates a psychic vision hoping to claim reward money, she inadvertently guesses correctly and finds herself entangled in a real murder investigation.
Jade and Stevie come from a long line of con artists, and have a stereotypical older sister-younger sister dynamic. Jade is the more compelling character. She genuinely cares for her clients and wishes to end her deception, but ultimately has no choice but to continue due to financial desperation and her inability to attain a job elsewhere. Unfortunately, Stevie’s character is underdeveloped.
The plot embraces its messiness as the sisters' lies spiral out of control, forcing them to frantically maintain their public image. The murder mystery itself has satisfying twists, though the ending disappointed me. Without revealing spoilers, I expected more substantial and realistic consequences for all parties involved.
The audiobook narrator competently conveys both sisters' perspectives.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
In "The Tarot Reader" by Finley Turner, sisters Jade and Stevie run a sham psychic parlor. When Jade fabricates a psychic vision hoping to claim reward money, she inadvertently guesses correctly and finds herself entangled in a real murder investigation.
Jade and Stevie come from a long line of con artists, and have a stereotypical older sister-younger sister dynamic. Jade is the more compelling character. She genuinely cares for her clients and wishes to end her deception, but ultimately has no choice but to continue due to financial desperation and her inability to attain a job elsewhere. Unfortunately, Stevie’s character is underdeveloped.
The plot embraces its messiness as the sisters' lies spiral out of control, forcing them to frantically maintain their public image. The murder mystery itself has satisfying twists, though the ending disappointed me. Without revealing spoilers, I expected more substantial and realistic consequences for all parties involved.
The audiobook narrator competently conveys both sisters' perspectives.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 26, 2025
Jade es el alma del negocio de lecturas espirituales que dirige junto a su hermana. Es carismática, inteligente y profundamente conflictuada. Aunque finge ser médium, lo que realmente ofrece es consuelo emocional envuelto en espectáculo. Es una superviviente, marcada por una infancia difícil y padres criminales, luchando por mantener la distancia con ese pasado, aunque su presente siga ligado a la mentira. Lo más fascinante de su personaje es su ambigüedad moral: no busca hacer daño, pero no duda en aprovecharse del dolor ajeno cuando la situación lo exige.
Stevie, su hermana menor, funciona como el contrapunto perfecto para Jade. Aunque se percibe como menos comprometida, su contribución al negocio es esencial, ya que se encarga de la logística detrás del espectáculo. Su humor ácido y su descaro alivian los momentos más oscuros, pero también dejan ver una joven que ha aprendido a sobrevivir a través del cinismo. A pesar de sus defectos, su relación con Jade es el pilar emocional de la novela: una alianza forjada por el abandono, la necesidad y el cariño incondicional.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest
Stevie, su hermana menor, funciona como el contrapunto perfecto para Jade. Aunque se percibe como menos comprometida, su contribución al negocio es esencial, ya que se encarga de la logística detrás del espectáculo. Su humor ácido y su descaro alivian los momentos más oscuros, pero también dejan ver una joven que ha aprendido a sobrevivir a través del cinismo. A pesar de sus defectos, su relación con Jade es el pilar emocional de la novela: una alianza forjada por el abandono, la necesidad y el cariño incondicional.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest
June 1, 2025
Finley Turner has come up with a perfect "who-dun-it" with The Tarot Reader. It is about two sisters living together, trying to pay their bills and put food on the table without resorting to crime. Unlike their parents, they want to be on the right side of the law. Stevie works at a bar to bring in cash. Jade gives seances, reads palms and Tarot cards, among other types of occult activities, which she admits sometimes skirts their goal of honesty.
The girls find themselves in deep when the rent on their place takes a massive hike. They don't know how to keep the place where Jade runs her business and where they also live.
One day, a local councilman goes missing and his family offers a $2000 reward for tips leading to where he might be. Jade decides to call in a tip about a "vision" she had, which of course, she completely made up. It turns out to be something the girls regret. It starts a domino of occurrences, one being that the police are more than interested in where Jade got her information.
This novel is hard to put down, a must for mystery lovers. Thanks to Netgalley for the prepublication copy to read and review.
The girls find themselves in deep when the rent on their place takes a massive hike. They don't know how to keep the place where Jade runs her business and where they also live.
One day, a local councilman goes missing and his family offers a $2000 reward for tips leading to where he might be. Jade decides to call in a tip about a "vision" she had, which of course, she completely made up. It turns out to be something the girls regret. It starts a domino of occurrences, one being that the police are more than interested in where Jade got her information.
This novel is hard to put down, a must for mystery lovers. Thanks to Netgalley for the prepublication copy to read and review.
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