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Oria-verse #1
Echoes of Oria
The shadows have teeth. And the dead won’t stay silent.
Fifteen years ago, I fled Oria, Texas in my prom dress like the town’s ghosts were chasing me.
Turns out… they were.
After a near-death experience in L.A., I’ve come home with a “gift” I never asked I can hear the dead. Loud and clear.
The first ghost to find me? My childhood nemesis. He’s very dead, very annoying, and very determined that I solve his murder.
Now I’m tangled in Oria’s dark history, haunted by snarky spirits, dangerous secrets, and an infuriatingly hot sheriff I should definitely not fall for.
But the deeper we dig, the more I
This town’s charm is built on centuries of blood.
And if I don’t break the cycle?
I’ll be next.
Echoes of Oria is a paranormal mystery romance filled with ghostly humor, psychic chaos, small-town secrets, and a reluctant heroine discovering her power, and her heart.
Fifteen years ago, I fled Oria, Texas in my prom dress like the town’s ghosts were chasing me.
Turns out… they were.
After a near-death experience in L.A., I’ve come home with a “gift” I never asked I can hear the dead. Loud and clear.
The first ghost to find me? My childhood nemesis. He’s very dead, very annoying, and very determined that I solve his murder.
Now I’m tangled in Oria’s dark history, haunted by snarky spirits, dangerous secrets, and an infuriatingly hot sheriff I should definitely not fall for.
But the deeper we dig, the more I
This town’s charm is built on centuries of blood.
And if I don’t break the cycle?
I’ll be next.
Echoes of Oria is a paranormal mystery romance filled with ghostly humor, psychic chaos, small-town secrets, and a reluctant heroine discovering her power, and her heart.
411 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 21, 2025
34 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
Stephany Simmons
14 books50 followersRaised on a healthy mix of Scooby Doo and Dark Shadows, it's no surprise that she grew up writing about the things that go bump in the night. Stephany Simmons is the author of Voodoo Dues, Vampire Blues and the upcoming Black Magic. She crafts an urban fantasy series filled with magic, mayhem, and a touch of humor. With a passion for creating rich, supernatural worlds and unforgettable characters, Stephany draws readers into thrilling adventures where the ordinary meets the extraordinary. She finds great joy in turning convention on its ear, twisting tropes and adding her own spin to conventional ideas.When she’s not writing, she’s usually exploring thrift stores, studying folklore, or working on her skoolie.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
April 24, 2025
My first ARC read that I went into completely blind! I was reeled into this one from the first chapter, maybe due to the setting being my home of East Texas, or the pleasant arrival of a supernatural twist.
The FMC & MMC are a breath of fresh air. Their love story pairs a former punk band member Sheriff with a woman who has literally died and returned to life after an overdose, only to discover her long-desired supernatural powers.
Add in playful SC’s, albeit a few too many at some points, (a girl can only keep up with so many names 😅), a beautifully unique family dynamic, plus the presence of werewolves, vampires, and shadow creatures(oh my), makes for a captivating narrative. Also, Baba Vi is my favorite character I’ve read in a whileeeee! 💜
Sadly, I was slightly disappointed in the ending. If there is an almost 300 page buildup to the “bad guy,” a girlie can only expect an equally great boss fight to end on, but instead the ending was quick, sweet & to the point. While the magical and supernatural elements were fascinating, I felt that the conclusion lacked the oomph I was anticipating.
Nonetheless, this didn’t diminish the book’s overall charm for me, like it might for other books. The character development, both for the main and side characters, along with the blend of small-town Texas and supernatural ley lines rich with powerful, ancient magic, has me eager to read more from Stephany & gives Echoes of Oria a solid 4 ⭐️ on to the next! 🫶🏻
The FMC & MMC are a breath of fresh air. Their love story pairs a former punk band member Sheriff with a woman who has literally died and returned to life after an overdose, only to discover her long-desired supernatural powers.
Add in playful SC’s, albeit a few too many at some points, (a girl can only keep up with so many names 😅), a beautifully unique family dynamic, plus the presence of werewolves, vampires, and shadow creatures(oh my), makes for a captivating narrative. Also, Baba Vi is my favorite character I’ve read in a whileeeee! 💜
Sadly, I was slightly disappointed in the ending. If there is an almost 300 page buildup to the “bad guy,” a girlie can only expect an equally great boss fight to end on, but instead the ending was quick, sweet & to the point. While the magical and supernatural elements were fascinating, I felt that the conclusion lacked the oomph I was anticipating.
Nonetheless, this didn’t diminish the book’s overall charm for me, like it might for other books. The character development, both for the main and side characters, along with the blend of small-town Texas and supernatural ley lines rich with powerful, ancient magic, has me eager to read more from Stephany & gives Echoes of Oria a solid 4 ⭐️ on to the next! 🫶🏻
April 24, 2025
“You’re still you. Just… with some new features.”
Fantasy Romance · Supernatural Powers/Beings · Investigation · Small Town · Mystery · Secret Society · Old/Dark Magic · Light Trigger Warnings
Echoes of Oria - an intriguing universe to fall into 🪄
This was actually my first small-town mystery investigation - and I really enjoyed it!
I usually love when a book throws you into the whirlwind right away, but here? The first 10% was more of a slow build - setting the tone, grounding us in the town and family dynamics. And it worked so well! The details weren’t just background noise - they shaped the whole atmosphere, and that vibe became a core part of the plot itself.💘
The writing flows effortlessly - smooth, engaging, and so easy to sink into.
The characters? Oh, I love them! The mix of humor, emotion, excitement, and that chaotic family drama? Absolute gold. I can’t even remember the last time I giggled this much while reading! That whole wild-family energy? Glorious.💫
And the sheriff? Yeah... he’s gonna make a lot of hearts race... 🥵 No wonder Cora fell for him so fast. They have such a natural, electric chemistry! 🔥
I still have my suspicions about Timothy Davis. There’s something about him… can’t shake the feeling he’s more than just a charming, open-minded gentleman. 👀
The worldbuilding and magic system are easy to follow, and I loved how the supernatural elements revealed themselves gradually - just enough at a time, with the bigger twists landing perfectly as the final battle approached.
And the book cover? Absolutely perfect.
The phrase "high-end boutique specializing in alternative lifestyle accessories" is going to live in my head forever. 😄🤭
All that to say - this universe has my heart.🖤
Thank you, Stephany, for trusting me with this story before release! 💫
⭐️ 5/5
🌶️ 0.99/5
Fantasy Romance · Supernatural Powers/Beings · Investigation · Small Town · Mystery · Secret Society · Old/Dark Magic · Light Trigger Warnings
Echoes of Oria - an intriguing universe to fall into 🪄
This was actually my first small-town mystery investigation - and I really enjoyed it!
I usually love when a book throws you into the whirlwind right away, but here? The first 10% was more of a slow build - setting the tone, grounding us in the town and family dynamics. And it worked so well! The details weren’t just background noise - they shaped the whole atmosphere, and that vibe became a core part of the plot itself.💘
The writing flows effortlessly - smooth, engaging, and so easy to sink into.
The characters? Oh, I love them! The mix of humor, emotion, excitement, and that chaotic family drama? Absolute gold. I can’t even remember the last time I giggled this much while reading! That whole wild-family energy? Glorious.💫
And the sheriff? Yeah... he’s gonna make a lot of hearts race... 🥵 No wonder Cora fell for him so fast. They have such a natural, electric chemistry! 🔥
I still have my suspicions about Timothy Davis. There’s something about him… can’t shake the feeling he’s more than just a charming, open-minded gentleman. 👀
The worldbuilding and magic system are easy to follow, and I loved how the supernatural elements revealed themselves gradually - just enough at a time, with the bigger twists landing perfectly as the final battle approached.
And the book cover? Absolutely perfect.
The phrase "high-end boutique specializing in alternative lifestyle accessories" is going to live in my head forever. 😄🤭
All that to say - this universe has my heart.🖤
Thank you, Stephany, for trusting me with this story before release! 💫
⭐️ 5/5
🌶️ 0.99/5
April 30, 2025
Echoes of Oria by Stephany Simmons is a captivating paranormal mystery novel that transports readers to the enigmatic town of Oria, Texas, where shadows conceal dark secrets and even the departed have tales to tell.
The story follows Cora Beane, who reluctantly returns to her hometown after a brush with death in L.A., only to find her ability to communicate with the dead dramatically amplified. Confronted by the ghost of her childhood nemesis, Cora is compelled to unravel the mystery surrounding his murder. As she races against time, aided by a witty spectral companion and a charming sheriff she struggles not to fall for, Cora uncovers centuries of ritualistic killings hidden beneath Oria's seemingly perfect veneer.
Simmons' meticulous world-building breathes life into the town, while her well-developed and relatable characters draw readers deeper into the narrative. The pacing is masterful, keeping readers engaged as the story unfolds, and the subtle humour infused throughout adds a delightful touch of levity.
The budding romance between the main characters feels authentic and unhurried, allowing their connection to develop organically. Simmons deftly handles the mystery aspect, weaving intricate threads that keep readers guessing until the very end.
The exploration of Cora's magical abilities is particularly well-executed, lending credibility to her journey of self-discovery.
With a satisfying conclusion that hints at more adventures to come, Echoes of Oria is a must-read for fans of paranormal mysteries and anyone who appreciates a skilfully crafted tale of secrets, romance, and the supernatural.
The story follows Cora Beane, who reluctantly returns to her hometown after a brush with death in L.A., only to find her ability to communicate with the dead dramatically amplified. Confronted by the ghost of her childhood nemesis, Cora is compelled to unravel the mystery surrounding his murder. As she races against time, aided by a witty spectral companion and a charming sheriff she struggles not to fall for, Cora uncovers centuries of ritualistic killings hidden beneath Oria's seemingly perfect veneer.
Simmons' meticulous world-building breathes life into the town, while her well-developed and relatable characters draw readers deeper into the narrative. The pacing is masterful, keeping readers engaged as the story unfolds, and the subtle humour infused throughout adds a delightful touch of levity.
The budding romance between the main characters feels authentic and unhurried, allowing their connection to develop organically. Simmons deftly handles the mystery aspect, weaving intricate threads that keep readers guessing until the very end.
The exploration of Cora's magical abilities is particularly well-executed, lending credibility to her journey of self-discovery.
With a satisfying conclusion that hints at more adventures to come, Echoes of Oria is a must-read for fans of paranormal mysteries and anyone who appreciates a skilfully crafted tale of secrets, romance, and the supernatural.
April 22, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this story so much. I love a good mystery and the supernatural element was an additional fun layer to the story. I thought the story was well paced. I was drawn in from the opening line, and was captivated throughout the entire story. I genuinely loved the first two paragraphs. What a way to start a story. Everything flowed in a logical direction as the story progressed.
I really felt as though I could picture where the story was taking place, although the illustrations the author released of the town are so much cuter. So maybe I needed a little more help in the visualization process. My favorite descriptions of the town include the courthouse, and those oh so ominous vibes it gives off with all of the shadows. The vibes were on point in this regard and added so much to the story.
I enjoyed the cast of characters that we met in this book. I felt that even though we added more characters as the story went on it was easy to keep track of everyone. And that everyone had such distinctly different personalities. I adored Boyd and his commentary so much. I liked everyone, but he was a favorite. I also particularly liked the relationship between Cora, her mother, and especially her grandmother. Baba had such a great personality.
If you love a mystery, especially a paranormal mystery I whole heartedly recommend this book. I would love to see more mystery solving with our main characters and would love to see more Boyd in future books.
I really felt as though I could picture where the story was taking place, although the illustrations the author released of the town are so much cuter. So maybe I needed a little more help in the visualization process. My favorite descriptions of the town include the courthouse, and those oh so ominous vibes it gives off with all of the shadows. The vibes were on point in this regard and added so much to the story.
I enjoyed the cast of characters that we met in this book. I felt that even though we added more characters as the story went on it was easy to keep track of everyone. And that everyone had such distinctly different personalities. I adored Boyd and his commentary so much. I liked everyone, but he was a favorite. I also particularly liked the relationship between Cora, her mother, and especially her grandmother. Baba had such a great personality.
If you love a mystery, especially a paranormal mystery I whole heartedly recommend this book. I would love to see more mystery solving with our main characters and would love to see more Boyd in future books.
August 24, 2025
I read this because I was in a book rut and was trying to pull myself out of it. This read definitely did that for me, and then some! I loved this book. It was unexpected and unusual in so many ways, it really kept me guessing, and was surprisingly quite dark. Cora was a magical hack who had faked a career as a psychic to gain success, but got hooked on the trappings of fame and almost killed herself. We don’t get a lot about her past, which is fine, because you definitely don’t miss it! Cora comes home to Oria, Texas, where she is from and her family lives. She moves back in with her parents in disgrace, and literally within a day all hell starts to break loose. Cora goes to a festival where her Gypsy and psychic mom has a booth, and while there, she ends up talking to her childhood bully, Dickie. He urgently wants to tell Cora something, but she’s not interested to hear it since he was a jerk to her growing up. When she drops that tidbit at the family dinner table, everyone freaks out. Why? Dickie is suspected to be dead— murdered. Turns out Cora’s own brush with dead unlocked her own magical abilities finally— she is a medium. That starts a crazy turn of events where Cora assists in solving Dickie’s death (working closely with the sheriff Davis), but more importantly uncovering a huge coverup and conspiracy involving an unfathomable amount of death. This book was awesome in every way, seriously. Read this!
April 26, 2025
ARC review time
Title: Echoes Of Oria
Author: @ssimmonswrites
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶
_________________________________________________________
Tropes
👻 small town secrets
👻 found family
👻 cinnamon roll hero with a badge
👻 reluctant heroine
👻 ancient rituals
👻 race against time
_________________________________________________________
Synopsis:
After fleeing Oria in her prom dress fifteen years ago, Cora Beane's near death experience in L.A. forces her back to Texas with an unexpected new ability: she can now communicate with the dead.
When childhood nemesis ghost demands she solve her murder, Cora reluctantly teams up with the handsome sheriff to uncover centuries of ritual killings hidden beneath the towns perfect facade.
_________________________________________________________
This book is an absolute masterpiece. The tropes had me intrigued. Who doesn't love a story with magic in it. Baba Vi is my favorite character. The whole story and character development had me wanting more. Go read this book
#pnromance #booklover #booksaremylife #bookreader #booksandcoffee #supportindieauthors #supernaturalbook
Title: Echoes Of Oria
Author: @ssimmonswrites
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶
_________________________________________________________
Tropes
👻 small town secrets
👻 found family
👻 cinnamon roll hero with a badge
👻 reluctant heroine
👻 ancient rituals
👻 race against time
_________________________________________________________
Synopsis:
After fleeing Oria in her prom dress fifteen years ago, Cora Beane's near death experience in L.A. forces her back to Texas with an unexpected new ability: she can now communicate with the dead.
When childhood nemesis ghost demands she solve her murder, Cora reluctantly teams up with the handsome sheriff to uncover centuries of ritual killings hidden beneath the towns perfect facade.
_________________________________________________________
This book is an absolute masterpiece. The tropes had me intrigued. Who doesn't love a story with magic in it. Baba Vi is my favorite character. The whole story and character development had me wanting more. Go read this book
#pnromance #booklover #booksaremylife #bookreader #booksandcoffee #supportindieauthors #supernaturalbook
May 6, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free through BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Cora returns to her childhood home after a life changing event. Her mom is the town psychic and she's always known there were supernatural elements out there, but since coming home her connection to them has grown. Teaming up with the local Sheriff, and her childhood bully Cora is engulfed in the deep history surrounding her small Texas town.
At first I had a hard time getting into the story, especially since it started off feeling like the world was unaware of supernatural entities. Yet everyone who it was revealed to took it with surprising ease and came to terms with it very quickly. Yet as the story continued I found myself truly immersed in the world Stephany has created, and was disappointed when it came to an end.
Both the beginning and end felt rushed, and that they could have benefited from more. Now if there is a second book in this world, I can justify the ending. All in all I was really engaged with the story and the character of Cora especially, and will be looking into reading more of Stephany's work.
Cora returns to her childhood home after a life changing event. Her mom is the town psychic and she's always known there were supernatural elements out there, but since coming home her connection to them has grown. Teaming up with the local Sheriff, and her childhood bully Cora is engulfed in the deep history surrounding her small Texas town.
At first I had a hard time getting into the story, especially since it started off feeling like the world was unaware of supernatural entities. Yet everyone who it was revealed to took it with surprising ease and came to terms with it very quickly. Yet as the story continued I found myself truly immersed in the world Stephany has created, and was disappointed when it came to an end.
Both the beginning and end felt rushed, and that they could have benefited from more. Now if there is a second book in this world, I can justify the ending. All in all I was really engaged with the story and the character of Cora especially, and will be looking into reading more of Stephany's work.
June 3, 2025
Stephany Simmons has done it again. I mean I read the summary but it did not prepare me for anything in this book and I mean that in the best way.
Girl leaves town in her prom dress? Ok, interesting. Near death experience? Getting there. Returning home? Sure. Then you meet the family. To say Cora Beane has a unique family would be putting it mildly, but I’ll let you meet them on your own.
Now for almost anyone, coming face-to-face with your childhood nemesis isn’t fun. To find out they’re a ghost, adds another layer to it. Oh, and then there is the sheriff. He just wants to close a case. He has no idea what he is in for, both professionally and personally.
This book had me hooked from the start and the cast of characters had everything you could want in a book. The mom who knows more than she can say, the matchmaking grandmother and so many more that there is very rarely a dull moment or conversation.
I completely enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. I would like to thank the author, Stephany Simmons; The Hen’s House Publisher and BookSirens for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and my review is voluntarily given. As always, I wish you happy reading!
Girl leaves town in her prom dress? Ok, interesting. Near death experience? Getting there. Returning home? Sure. Then you meet the family. To say Cora Beane has a unique family would be putting it mildly, but I’ll let you meet them on your own.
Now for almost anyone, coming face-to-face with your childhood nemesis isn’t fun. To find out they’re a ghost, adds another layer to it. Oh, and then there is the sheriff. He just wants to close a case. He has no idea what he is in for, both professionally and personally.
This book had me hooked from the start and the cast of characters had everything you could want in a book. The mom who knows more than she can say, the matchmaking grandmother and so many more that there is very rarely a dull moment or conversation.
I completely enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. I would like to thank the author, Stephany Simmons; The Hen’s House Publisher and BookSirens for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and my review is voluntarily given. As always, I wish you happy reading!
May 3, 2025
Fun, spooky vibes with a twist of necromancy.
If Vampire Diaries and Ghost Whisperer had a crossover, it would be this book, Echoes of Oria by Stephany Simmons. I loved the supernatural elements, the small-town setting and the banter had me laughing more than once. The necromancy twist was especially cool.
That said, there were some continuity issues and reused metaphors that made it feel like the author forgot they’d
written them just a few pages earlier. The ending felt rushed, with barely any struggle in what should’ve been a big final showdown. And the characters picked the strangest times to have sex but hey, who am I to judge how they handle stress? Also, having two characters named James: one good, one bad was a confusing choice.
Would I recommend it? Maybe. This was a 3.5 star read. If you can look past the mistakes, it’s a solid, entertaining story.
Would I read another book in the series? Maybe the vibes were strong enough to keep me curious.
I received this book as ARC in exchange for my honest review.
If Vampire Diaries and Ghost Whisperer had a crossover, it would be this book, Echoes of Oria by Stephany Simmons. I loved the supernatural elements, the small-town setting and the banter had me laughing more than once. The necromancy twist was especially cool.
That said, there were some continuity issues and reused metaphors that made it feel like the author forgot they’d
written them just a few pages earlier. The ending felt rushed, with barely any struggle in what should’ve been a big final showdown. And the characters picked the strangest times to have sex but hey, who am I to judge how they handle stress? Also, having two characters named James: one good, one bad was a confusing choice.
Would I recommend it? Maybe. This was a 3.5 star read. If you can look past the mistakes, it’s a solid, entertaining story.
Would I read another book in the series? Maybe the vibes were strong enough to keep me curious.
I received this book as ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 2, 2025
3.7 stars Cool concept/setup for a paranormal mystery series. Diabolicalness, sacrificial murders to sustain power. Ya know, the basics. 😈
There was some sweet romance with the outline of steam. Mention of orgasms does not spice make. Insta love/lust.
There were some fun characters and some somewhat entertaining interactions but the humor never quite reached me. I never even chuckled.
The transitions were choppy and maybe too many conveniently understanding law enforcement officials and interventions on the part of people around town and neighboring areas. Also, having a new POV enter stage left more than 80% of the way through the book seemed kind of awkward.
Planning on checking out other series by this author to see if the same issues with the writing apply.
Also, Texas doesn’t have “Mounties,” That’s Canada. 🤨
There was some sweet romance with the outline of steam. Mention of orgasms does not spice make. Insta love/lust.
There were some fun characters and some somewhat entertaining interactions but the humor never quite reached me. I never even chuckled.
The transitions were choppy and maybe too many conveniently understanding law enforcement officials and interventions on the part of people around town and neighboring areas. Also, having a new POV enter stage left more than 80% of the way through the book seemed kind of awkward.
Planning on checking out other series by this author to see if the same issues with the writing apply.
Also, Texas doesn’t have “Mounties,” That’s Canada. 🤨
September 6, 2025
I love Oria and it's cast of unique characters. Admittedly, I've read these completely out of order, but it hasn't taken away from my enjoyment at all.
Cora grew up in Oria as the daughter of the known town psychic, ran away with a broken teenage heart, and has now returned after a traumatic experience. Tim Davis is the sheriff with a unique past of his own. These two collide and are pretty much unable and unwilling to resist.
Two small things, neither really deal with those past experiences that got them to this point, although they really should have before jumping into a relationship. Davis adapted excessively well to the supernatural having no exposure or understanding about it before.
It's a great quick read, and I look forward to read the next two now in the correct order.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Cora grew up in Oria as the daughter of the known town psychic, ran away with a broken teenage heart, and has now returned after a traumatic experience. Tim Davis is the sheriff with a unique past of his own. These two collide and are pretty much unable and unwilling to resist.
Two small things, neither really deal with those past experiences that got them to this point, although they really should have before jumping into a relationship. Davis adapted excessively well to the supernatural having no exposure or understanding about it before.
It's a great quick read, and I look forward to read the next two now in the correct order.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 27, 2025
ARC review: Wow! This book had me hooked and kept my attention throughout the entire book with the banter and interactions that the characters had. Cora (our FMC) returns back to her hometown of Oria Texas where secrets would do anything to be kept. Once home she meets a sarcastic ghost and a gentleman of a sheriff who all work together to solve mysteries of the town. Although Cora and Davis fall in love quickly it is believable because they radiate pure chemistry. The book screams adult scooby doo vibes while also having lots of humor. I am so excited to read more books in this universe! If you like ghosts, diverse characters, and secrets that demand to stay buried then this book is for you!
August 24, 2025
Book Sirens eARC. Fifteen years ago Cora fled Oria, Texas in her prom dress following a bad breakup. When a near death experience leaves her with the ability to see and talk to the dead she returns to familiar ground to re group. Oria's dark history provides a good training ground for her new skill and her old high school bully needs her help to find his killer. Unlike many I have always enjoyed a first person narrative and Cora's voice is humorous and thoughtful. The supporting cast of quirky characters are well developed and engaging especially Baba Vi. The sheriff's ready acceptance of the paranormal and his quick cooperation is implausable but adds much to the plot. This paranormal mystery has heart warming family and friends dynamics and a fast moving story line. A light, fun read.
October 16, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Echoes of Oria is a paranormal mystery romance that hits all the right notes: paranormal humor, psychic chaos, small-town secrets, and a heroine who’s as reluctant as she is unforgettable. After a near-death experience, Cora Beane returns home with the new ability to see ghosts. What follows is a whirlwind of supernatural beings, murder, mystery, and a romance with Oria’s emotionally mature sheriff, Timothy Davis (who deserves his own fan club).
Kim Owens’ narration is stellar! She brings every ghost, twist, and tender moment to life with nuance and charm. The main characters are beautifully developed, and the side characters add depth and delight to the story.
Huge thanks to Stephany Simmons for the ALC copy! This one’s a must-listen!
Echoes of Oria is a paranormal mystery romance that hits all the right notes: paranormal humor, psychic chaos, small-town secrets, and a heroine who’s as reluctant as she is unforgettable. After a near-death experience, Cora Beane returns home with the new ability to see ghosts. What follows is a whirlwind of supernatural beings, murder, mystery, and a romance with Oria’s emotionally mature sheriff, Timothy Davis (who deserves his own fan club).
Kim Owens’ narration is stellar! She brings every ghost, twist, and tender moment to life with nuance and charm. The main characters are beautifully developed, and the side characters add depth and delight to the story.
Huge thanks to Stephany Simmons for the ALC copy! This one’s a must-listen!
December 8, 2025
3.5⭐️ partly due to my own fault as I didn’t realise this was more mystery than romance so that’s on me.
I’d read the 3rd book, loved it & then jumped at the chance to read the others in the series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked the found families vibes, most people coming together. Baba was my absolute favourite, love her. This book definitely feels like it sets up a whole new Oria with different people coming together.
I wasn’t a fan of the majority of the spice being closed door & that the end felt kinda anti-climactic for me but it did set up following books & more paranormal people/creatures being introduced & I’m here for that.
I’d read the 3rd book, loved it & then jumped at the chance to read the others in the series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked the found families vibes, most people coming together. Baba was my absolute favourite, love her. This book definitely feels like it sets up a whole new Oria with different people coming together.
I wasn’t a fan of the majority of the spice being closed door & that the end felt kinda anti-climactic for me but it did set up following books & more paranormal people/creatures being introduced & I’m here for that.
August 25, 2025
After reading Crone of Oria, it made sense to accept the prior book for free.
I read these books in the exact opposite order! That's okay. It didn't diminish the story in the least. Cora is not at all how I pictured her, and I have to say that I was completely SHOCKED to see as much of Davis as I had. I guess everyone is entitled to some secrets.
I don't know how I would feel if I could sense the dead and hear their whispers. I might be able to ask my dad a few questions that will now forever be unanswered, but maybe some things aren't meant to be known.
I'm sad that there isn't more to the story yet, but I am definitely looking forward to Elena and Rob's story, next!
I read these books in the exact opposite order! That's okay. It didn't diminish the story in the least. Cora is not at all how I pictured her, and I have to say that I was completely SHOCKED to see as much of Davis as I had. I guess everyone is entitled to some secrets.
I don't know how I would feel if I could sense the dead and hear their whispers. I might be able to ask my dad a few questions that will now forever be unanswered, but maybe some things aren't meant to be known.
I'm sad that there isn't more to the story yet, but I am definitely looking forward to Elena and Rob's story, next!
August 16, 2025
I read the 2nd book first didn’t realize it was a series but love it so much went looking for more from same author. I found this book it answered so many questions and was so wonderful to read. The paranormal angle on the town was so perfectly written. You’ve got humans and non-humans and everything in between. There is at least one more book and I’m sure it wil be just as awesome as the first two have been.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 8, 2025
Soo good!
If you haven’t read any of Stephany Simmons yet, do yourself a favor, start here, start anywhere really. Simmons is one of the most talented writers in the fantasy romance genre (I read between approximately 200-300 books a year, so that’s saying something). Lovable, intriguing characters (main and side), witty, keen sense of humor, realistic interpersonal dynamics, creative plot, solid writing, good pacing, I could go on and on.
Highly recommend this Fantasy Romance. Spicy, but not egregiously. Love her writing and this world.
If you haven’t read any of Stephany Simmons yet, do yourself a favor, start here, start anywhere really. Simmons is one of the most talented writers in the fantasy romance genre (I read between approximately 200-300 books a year, so that’s saying something). Lovable, intriguing characters (main and side), witty, keen sense of humor, realistic interpersonal dynamics, creative plot, solid writing, good pacing, I could go on and on.
Highly recommend this Fantasy Romance. Spicy, but not egregiously. Love her writing and this world.
November 16, 2025
3.75/5 ⭐ I really enjoyed the storyline, concept, and the characters, both main and side. It was a fun cozy paranormal mystery with a sweet romance. However, what knocked off a whole star for me was that the author kept going back and forth between the autumn equinox and winter solstice as if the two are interchangeable and not in two different seasons of the year. Or as if a decision hadn't quite been made and then it completely slipped through editing. It might be a small thing to some, but it kept throwing me out of the story.
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July 3, 2025WOW! This book had me hooked from the start. The pace was perfect! It would amp up, then you would get a bit of a breather before amping up more. The descriptions gave a great visual impression, I can almost picture the layout of the town square. There was some good banter between the two main characters, and throw in her grandmother, and it’s the perfect recipe. It was a good read, I didn’t want to put it down. I cannot wait to read more from this author!
May 31, 2025
I really loved this story. I got drawn into it all and kept me glued to the end and found it hard to put down. A great story and amazing characters. I loved the mystery, suspense and trying to guess what is going on and the weirdness of this little town. Just well written and the mystery was amazing. I received an early copy and this is my opinion.
October 11, 2025
I enjoyed the bantering, the ghosts and the journey towards finding out what's happening in Oria. However, the insta-love romance and the other characters commenting about it became annoying. I actually wish that the sherrif reacted to her with skepticism. The training session and time with the werewolves went a bit long for me. It was okay.
October 22, 2025
A spectacularly written tale!
I have read some truly great books lately. This one surpassed many of them. It was spellbinding. The characters were alternately fascinating and amusing. The story was complex and intense yet sexy. I’m so glad I found this author and discovered her storytelling skills. I will definitely be reading the other books in this series.
I have read some truly great books lately. This one surpassed many of them. It was spellbinding. The characters were alternately fascinating and amusing. The story was complex and intense yet sexy. I’m so glad I found this author and discovered her storytelling skills. I will definitely be reading the other books in this series.
April 23, 2025
I loved this book! The mysteries and unfolding of the town had me on the edge. And that creepy clock tower and its shadows… It was a quick read and just enough romance ;). I will definitely continue to read Stephany’s books!
July 20, 2025
Such an incredible story! Filled with the supernatural, magic, murder, and mayhem. Oria, with and because all its horrors, sounds like the perfect place to live! Great in depth characters, I couldn't put it down!
May 30, 2025
This murder mystery has it all. Great story, wonderful characters,
supernatural elements, plenty of action and even room for a romance.
supernatural elements, plenty of action and even room for a romance.
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June 8, 2025That was a blast! Great characters! Baba is a freaking hoot! And I love Cora and Davis's budding relationship.
September 30, 2025
Echoes of Oria hooked me from the very beginning and never let go. Coming back to a small Texas town only to find yourself haunted by both memories and actual ghosts? And a small town mystery? Absolutely my kind of setup. Cora is a heroine I could root for, she's messy, sarcastic, and a lot tougher than she gives herself credit for. Add in a childhood nemesis who won’t stop pestering her from beyond the grave and a sheriff who’s far too distracting for his own good, and you’ve got a recipe for one addictive read.
What I loved most was the balance: spooky but not scary atmosphere, humor woven into even the darkest moments, and a mystery that kept me guessing. The family dynamics added extra depth (Baba completely stole the show), and the romance built naturally alongside the unfolding secrets. The banter between Cora and the sheriff made me laugh out loud more than once, and the ghostly commentary added just the right amount of chaos.
This is small-town paranormal mystery at its best: sharp, funny, eerie, and heartfelt.
Thank you to the author for an copy of this audiobook.
What I loved most was the balance: spooky but not scary atmosphere, humor woven into even the darkest moments, and a mystery that kept me guessing. The family dynamics added extra depth (Baba completely stole the show), and the romance built naturally alongside the unfolding secrets. The banter between Cora and the sheriff made me laugh out loud more than once, and the ghostly commentary added just the right amount of chaos.
This is small-town paranormal mystery at its best: sharp, funny, eerie, and heartfelt.
Thank you to the author for an copy of this audiobook.
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