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Inn Hallowed Ground
After a troublous first year at her haunted inn, Andie Rose and her support dog, Aspen, finally settle into the quaint, cozy town of Spirit Lake, Minnesota. Tender green shoots of grass and daffodils peek through the melting snow, promising new life. But things turn deadly when two bodies are discovered two days apart at St. Michael’s cemetery.
Detective Parker, all too used to Andie Rose meddling in his investigations, isn’t at all surprised when she shows up at the crime scene This time, his new-in-town twin sister is with her, and tempers flare as he warns them to stay out of his way.
But when Andie Rose realizes both victims had recent run-ins with her father, famous thriller author Chandler Langston, she’s dead set to prove her dad’s innocence. But can she clear him before she becomes the next victim?
Detective Parker, all too used to Andie Rose meddling in his investigations, isn’t at all surprised when she shows up at the crime scene This time, his new-in-town twin sister is with her, and tempers flare as he warns them to stay out of his way.
But when Andie Rose realizes both victims had recent run-ins with her father, famous thriller author Chandler Langston, she’s dead set to prove her dad’s innocence. But can she clear him before she becomes the next victim?
234 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 19, 2025
5 people want to read
About the author
Rhonda Blackhurst
18 books55 followersBiography
Rhonda lives in Colorado but frequently escapes to her Arizona home. She is an avid reader, writer, coffee and dark chocolate connoisseur. She has 11 indie-published books: The Inheritance, a contemporary fiction novel; seven books in the Melanie Hogan Mysteries; Finding Abby and Abby's Redemption in the Whispering Pines Romantic Suspense duology; and a non-fiction book, Finding Peace Through Gratitude. She also has the Spirit Lake Mysteries published by The Wild Rose Press. She was awarded the 2022 Master of Literary Arts Award from the Brighton Chamber. She can be found at her online home at www.rhondablackhurst.com.
Rhonda lives in Colorado but frequently escapes to her Arizona home. She is an avid reader, writer, coffee and dark chocolate connoisseur. She has 11 indie-published books: The Inheritance, a contemporary fiction novel; seven books in the Melanie Hogan Mysteries; Finding Abby and Abby's Redemption in the Whispering Pines Romantic Suspense duology; and a non-fiction book, Finding Peace Through Gratitude. She also has the Spirit Lake Mysteries published by The Wild Rose Press. She was awarded the 2022 Master of Literary Arts Award from the Brighton Chamber. She can be found at her online home at www.rhondablackhurst.com.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 7, 2025
Ghosts, Gossip, and One Very Good Boy Named Aspen
You know those books that feel like hot chocolate for your brain? Inn Hallowed Ground is exactly that, minus the calories and plus a few ghosts.
This cozy paranormal mystery takes place in Spirit Lake, where Andie Rose runs an inn, solves murders, wrangles a flirty detective, and leans heavily on her emotional support dog, Aspen (who, frankly, is the best character in the book —sorry, Lord Watson).
The writing flows easily, with no filler or pretension, and it hits that sweet spot between mystery and comfort read. The paranormal side never gets spooky enough to make you check your locks, but it adds just enough intrigue to keep things interesting.
Sure, a few subplots wander off like unsupervised toddlers, and the mystery itself won’t outsmart you, but the small-town warmth and witty dialogue make up for it. It’s like Murder, She Wrote with better coffee and more fur.
A cozy read best enjoyed on a chilly afternoon with your own Aspen curled at your feet.
You know those books that feel like hot chocolate for your brain? Inn Hallowed Ground is exactly that, minus the calories and plus a few ghosts.
This cozy paranormal mystery takes place in Spirit Lake, where Andie Rose runs an inn, solves murders, wrangles a flirty detective, and leans heavily on her emotional support dog, Aspen (who, frankly, is the best character in the book —sorry, Lord Watson).
The writing flows easily, with no filler or pretension, and it hits that sweet spot between mystery and comfort read. The paranormal side never gets spooky enough to make you check your locks, but it adds just enough intrigue to keep things interesting.
Sure, a few subplots wander off like unsupervised toddlers, and the mystery itself won’t outsmart you, but the small-town warmth and witty dialogue make up for it. It’s like Murder, She Wrote with better coffee and more fur.
A cozy read best enjoyed on a chilly afternoon with your own Aspen curled at your feet.
November 1, 2025
" Inn Hallowed Ground " by Rhonda Blackhurst feels like stepping into one of my enchanted Forest paintings, only this time the shadows hold secrets.
The story follows Andie Rose and her loyal support dog, Aspen, as they settle into Spirit Lake, Minnesota. Where a double murder happens. The murder ' s hit close to home with Andie's dad on the suspect list. Andie Rose's sleuthing skills kick in and the plot enfolds from there.
The characters who are all unique and charming work well together. Even Andie Rose's support dog, Aspen, is charming and a scene stealer. The town, Spirit Lake itself as a backdrop, is also as charming as it is haunted.
What I loved most about this Cozy Mystery was the gentle layering of mystery and heart. The Inn adds a whisper of the supernatural while the smalltown dynamics and family ties keep the story grounded.
If you enjoy Cozy Mysteries with a dash of ghostly intrigue this one's definitely a must read. I had trouble putting the story down. I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story follows Andie Rose and her loyal support dog, Aspen, as they settle into Spirit Lake, Minnesota. Where a double murder happens. The murder ' s hit close to home with Andie's dad on the suspect list. Andie Rose's sleuthing skills kick in and the plot enfolds from there.
The characters who are all unique and charming work well together. Even Andie Rose's support dog, Aspen, is charming and a scene stealer. The town, Spirit Lake itself as a backdrop, is also as charming as it is haunted.
What I loved most about this Cozy Mystery was the gentle layering of mystery and heart. The Inn adds a whisper of the supernatural while the smalltown dynamics and family ties keep the story grounded.
If you enjoy Cozy Mysteries with a dash of ghostly intrigue this one's definitely a must read. I had trouble putting the story down. I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 22, 2025
The ghosts/supernatural elements were great. They even helped out at times! Two estranged bffs ( who were rival authors) in the same small town, and one turns up dead and the other one is a suspect!!! The nuns
(sisters) were real gems in this story. When they weren't cracking me up, they were enchanting me and marveling me with their words and deeds. Lol. An altogether glorious read with endless love, laughter, and entertainment. What an explosive statement at the end!!?? I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
(sisters) were real gems in this story. When they weren't cracking me up, they were enchanting me and marveling me with their words and deeds. Lol. An altogether glorious read with endless love, laughter, and entertainment. What an explosive statement at the end!!?? I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
November 9, 2025
Inn Hallowed Ground is Book 3 in The Spirit Lake Mysteries by Rhonda Blackhurst. I enjoyed reading this book. Andie and her emotional support dog, Aspen, are wonderful characters. I especially liked that Andie needed a support dog. Detective Parker's sister has bought a bookshop and he would like for Andie to show her around… is there a possible romance? A murder changes everything and points to Andie's father. The mystery is excellent and I think this mystery should be on everyone's TBR list. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
November 17, 2025
This was a lovely cozy mystery with a delightful relationship counsellor Andie Rose who doesn't 'do' relationships herself and her fellow sleuth Sister Alice.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series with unfinished 'ghostly' business and two male complications in the shape of police man Noah and handsome Max for Andie Rose to contend with.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series with unfinished 'ghostly' business and two male complications in the shape of police man Noah and handsome Max for Andie Rose to contend with.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 19, 2025
"Inn Hallowed Ground" is a fast-paced and enjoyable read. Rhonda Blackhurst weaves an intriguing mystery with a lineup of compelling suspects. The plot is strong, filled with well-crafted characters, making it captivating, fun, and thoroughly entertaining.
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 7, 2025
"It’s better to ask for forgiveness than permission. Why change that now?"
Andie Rose runs one of her family Inns in Spirit Lake MN. Spirit Lake has a reputation for just that: ghosts, and tourists flock there, helping her keep the Inn running.
She and Sister Alice have a reputation as mystery solvers and Detective Noah Parker wants Andie Rose and Sister Alice to stop nosing their way into his investigations. He also seems to want to get closer to Andie Rose. And Noah's twin Nova: aka Quinn has just purchased the old bookstore and is staying with him right now.
When Andie Rose's father arrives in town one of his author rivals is found dead. But how and why? And then, the rival's ex-wife is also found in a similar fashion leaving everyone puzzled and concerned that her father could have been involved. Did Chandler kill Beau and his ex-wife? If not who did?
I really enjoyed this story and not just because the Inn keeper's name is similar to my own. Author Rhonda Blackhurst can certainly keep you up way past bedtime with her storytelling. Highly Recommended 5/5
[ Disclaimer: I received this book from Book Sirens but it was my choice to read and review it]
Andie Rose runs one of her family Inns in Spirit Lake MN. Spirit Lake has a reputation for just that: ghosts, and tourists flock there, helping her keep the Inn running.
She and Sister Alice have a reputation as mystery solvers and Detective Noah Parker wants Andie Rose and Sister Alice to stop nosing their way into his investigations. He also seems to want to get closer to Andie Rose. And Noah's twin Nova: aka Quinn has just purchased the old bookstore and is staying with him right now.
When Andie Rose's father arrives in town one of his author rivals is found dead. But how and why? And then, the rival's ex-wife is also found in a similar fashion leaving everyone puzzled and concerned that her father could have been involved. Did Chandler kill Beau and his ex-wife? If not who did?
I really enjoyed this story and not just because the Inn keeper's name is similar to my own. Author Rhonda Blackhurst can certainly keep you up way past bedtime with her storytelling. Highly Recommended 5/5
[ Disclaimer: I received this book from Book Sirens but it was my choice to read and review it]
November 2, 2025
A bit of the paranormal plus murder is the gist of this book. An author is murdered and then his wife is killed by a fan of another author. Who is the murderer?
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.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2025
These stories of Andie Rose trying to solve mysteries even though Noah, the local detective, tries to keep her out are great. This one has her father's unpublished book become the inspiration for murder. Right to the end there are many possible murderers and the resident ghost also helps. This is not to be missed.
I received this book via Booksirens and leave this review voluntarily
I received this book via Booksirens and leave this review voluntarily
January 27, 2026
Inn Hallowed Ground
I liked this book and found the plot interesting. The characters have depth, conflicts, and weaknesses. The Inn was a family property that Angie Rose was selected to manage. It came with a loyal staff and a ghost. Angie had been a troubled teen and was a recovering alcoholic. With the help of a nearby nun, Sister Alice, as a mentor for her 7-step program, she stays sober and functions well as a personal coach and inn manager. She and Sister Alice have a history as investigators (from previous books), so when a body is found lying in an open coffin in the church cemetery, they get busy, despite the objections of the local police detective, Noah Parker. Along the way, we meet Noah’s sister, Quinn, who has moved to town to start a bookstore, and Max, a friend of Angie Rose who is looking to buy a nearby pharmacy.
Once the body is identified as an author rival of Angie Rose’s father, a successful thriller author, the plot becomes more complex. Her dad comes to town to help with the investigation, as it is learned that the cause of death was the same as a death in his not-yet-released latest thriller. The world of author-obsessed fans is explored and investigated as the body of the widow of the dead man is also found soon, again in the same cemetery with the same cause of death. Agents and others in the publishing world are suspects, as is possible computer hacking.
Angie Rose turns to her dog often for comfort, and he later helps save her life, as does the resident ghost. Another pet includes Quinn's Coon cat; I’m a sucker for plots with pets. There are red herrings and missteps by our sleuths, but dig into this story. I know you’ll be intrigued. I would like to know more about her relationship with her parents, as it had been strained over the years. Also, maybe more about Max, as he seems to be a competitor for her affections, along with Noah.
As always, the culprit is unmasked, but not easily, but in the end all is resolved.
I received an advance reader copy of this book and have reviewed it voluntarily.
I liked this book and found the plot interesting. The characters have depth, conflicts, and weaknesses. The Inn was a family property that Angie Rose was selected to manage. It came with a loyal staff and a ghost. Angie had been a troubled teen and was a recovering alcoholic. With the help of a nearby nun, Sister Alice, as a mentor for her 7-step program, she stays sober and functions well as a personal coach and inn manager. She and Sister Alice have a history as investigators (from previous books), so when a body is found lying in an open coffin in the church cemetery, they get busy, despite the objections of the local police detective, Noah Parker. Along the way, we meet Noah’s sister, Quinn, who has moved to town to start a bookstore, and Max, a friend of Angie Rose who is looking to buy a nearby pharmacy.
Once the body is identified as an author rival of Angie Rose’s father, a successful thriller author, the plot becomes more complex. Her dad comes to town to help with the investigation, as it is learned that the cause of death was the same as a death in his not-yet-released latest thriller. The world of author-obsessed fans is explored and investigated as the body of the widow of the dead man is also found soon, again in the same cemetery with the same cause of death. Agents and others in the publishing world are suspects, as is possible computer hacking.
Angie Rose turns to her dog often for comfort, and he later helps save her life, as does the resident ghost. Another pet includes Quinn's Coon cat; I’m a sucker for plots with pets. There are red herrings and missteps by our sleuths, but dig into this story. I know you’ll be intrigued. I would like to know more about her relationship with her parents, as it had been strained over the years. Also, maybe more about Max, as he seems to be a competitor for her affections, along with Noah.
As always, the culprit is unmasked, but not easily, but in the end all is resolved.
I received an advance reader copy of this book and have reviewed it voluntarily.
November 21, 2025
What’s not to love about Rhonda Blackhurst’s latest cozy mystery?
Inn Hallowed Ground follows the intrepid team of Andie Rose, owner of Spirit Lake’s haunted inn, and her AA sponsor, Sister Alice, the moped-riding Catholic nun.
And this time, the murder is as personal as it gets. An old friend of her father’s is found dead in the local cemetery, under circumstances bizarre enough to have been the plot of a thriller novel. Her dad, well-known thriller author Chandler Langston, tops the suspect list. Of course, Andie Rose is out to prove her father innocent.
Once again Blackhurst has created the ultimate cozy mystery with a crime puzzling enough to keep you guessing and characters quirky enough to make you laugh out loud.
The plot is smart with just enough complications thrown in to keep the reader interested. While it seems like the suspect list should be just a handful of people, a new possibility pops in every step of the investigation.
If you come for the plot, you’ll stay for the characters. Andie Rose is a relationship coach who’s terrible at her own relationships. And Sister Alice? Well, any resemblance to a Catholic nun is purely coincidental. As her AA sponsor, Sister Alice tries to keep Andie Rose on track, but all too often, she’s right behind her in the sleuthing.
Sure, Detective Noah Parker gets frustrated with Andie Rose, but is there some chemistry between the two?
And we can’t forget about the ghost of the inn, Lady Lucy, who, as always, is a silent (and sometimes not so silent) partner in the story.
This is the third installment of The Spirit Lake Mysteries Series, but it can be read as a standalone. And I urge you to grab a hot beverage, a blanket, and cozy up with this excellent cozy mystery.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Terry
This review first appeared: https://substack.com/@nnlightsbookhea...
Inn Hallowed Ground follows the intrepid team of Andie Rose, owner of Spirit Lake’s haunted inn, and her AA sponsor, Sister Alice, the moped-riding Catholic nun.
And this time, the murder is as personal as it gets. An old friend of her father’s is found dead in the local cemetery, under circumstances bizarre enough to have been the plot of a thriller novel. Her dad, well-known thriller author Chandler Langston, tops the suspect list. Of course, Andie Rose is out to prove her father innocent.
Once again Blackhurst has created the ultimate cozy mystery with a crime puzzling enough to keep you guessing and characters quirky enough to make you laugh out loud.
The plot is smart with just enough complications thrown in to keep the reader interested. While it seems like the suspect list should be just a handful of people, a new possibility pops in every step of the investigation.
If you come for the plot, you’ll stay for the characters. Andie Rose is a relationship coach who’s terrible at her own relationships. And Sister Alice? Well, any resemblance to a Catholic nun is purely coincidental. As her AA sponsor, Sister Alice tries to keep Andie Rose on track, but all too often, she’s right behind her in the sleuthing.
Sure, Detective Noah Parker gets frustrated with Andie Rose, but is there some chemistry between the two?
And we can’t forget about the ghost of the inn, Lady Lucy, who, as always, is a silent (and sometimes not so silent) partner in the story.
This is the third installment of The Spirit Lake Mysteries Series, but it can be read as a standalone. And I urge you to grab a hot beverage, a blanket, and cozy up with this excellent cozy mystery.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Terry
This review first appeared: https://substack.com/@nnlightsbookhea...
November 21, 2025
Oh my, I just love this book! It's everything I want in a paranormal cozy. A dog, ghosts, a little romance and a great setting! Andie Rose runs a family inn in Spirit Lake, MN. Along with her support dog, Aspen, and Sister Alice, Andie solves mysteries around town. After a murder that puts Andie's dad on the suspect list, its time to investigate even though Det. Parker wishes she wouldn't stick her nose in.
I love the characters. Aspen is the best! The story flows and there are no parts that are anything but cozy.
This is the first book in the series that I've read. I'm going back to read the others. This story has heart along with a great mystery. With so many cozy choices on the market, it's hard to choose one. If you are looking for a fun ghostly cozy then you've found it.
I love the characters. Aspen is the best! The story flows and there are no parts that are anything but cozy.
This is the first book in the series that I've read. I'm going back to read the others. This story has heart along with a great mystery. With so many cozy choices on the market, it's hard to choose one. If you are looking for a fun ghostly cozy then you've found it.
November 23, 2025
Nothing says "cozy" quite like a peaceful stroll through St. Michael's cemetery in Minnesota, unless you're amateur sleuth Andie Rose and you stumble upon not one, but two, very dead bodies, and not the buried-in-the-ground kind. The charming chaos of this engaging cozy mystery truly kicks off when Andie Rose tries to juggle crime-solving with running her inn. As Detective Parker issues a stern warning to Andie and his newly arrived twin sister to steer clear of his official investigation, the plot thickens—especially when both deceased individuals are revealed to have had recent run-ins with Andie's famous author father, Chandler Langston. Get ready for a delightful read packed with surprising turns and plenty of endearing moments.
December 2, 2025
Inn Hallowed Ground delivers a warm, atmospheric blend of small-town charm, creeping mystery, and supernatural tension. Andie Rose is as endearing as ever curious, stubborn, and impossible not to root for as she’s pulled into a pair of chilling cemetery deaths that feel both intimate and ominous. The Minnesota spring setting adds a cozy brightness that contrasts beautifully with the darker twists beneath the surface. With family secrets, suspicious townsfolk, and a murder trail that refuses to stay buried, this installment delivers escalating stakes while keeping the emotional heart of the series intact. A satisfying, character driven cozy mystery with just the right touch of ghostly menace.
November 19, 2025
Inn Hallowed Ground written by Rhonda Blackhurst WoW what a great enteraining book. There is mystery, murder, ghost & mayhem and a story that gripes you and keeps you there til the end. With every turn something is happening. Every time you think you know who did what nope you are wrong. I just loved this book and can’t wait to see the next book if there is one. I do have this book and I recommend anybody who likes reading to read it you won’t be disappointed. Rhonda has great characters and an awesome story line.
Written by
Edith L 🐈⬛🐈
Written by
Edith L 🐈⬛🐈
December 21, 2025
This was a well-crafted mystery that was just a bit different. Once I started reading, I didn't stop to the book was finished. The characters were intriguing and well developed; loved Sister Alice. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I also enjoyed the paranormal twist to the story. This is the first book I have read of this series, but it won't be the last. Strongly recommend reading this book.
December 17, 2025
Andie Rose, her loyal canine companion Aspen and the good Sister Alice investigate another murder and try to stay out of Detective Noah Parker’s way. Staying out of Noah’s way is easier said than done when the prime suspect happens to be Andie’s dad.
Can Andie Rose prove her dad’s innocence, balance her jobs as inn owner and life coach and appease the ghost of Lady Lucy?
Can Andie Rose prove her dad’s innocence, balance her jobs as inn owner and life coach and appease the ghost of Lady Lucy?
January 25, 2026
Spooky Mystery
This time And is Rose's father is caught in the center of a deranged fan's obsession. Plus the paranormal activities at the inn are becoming violent. I enjoyed this tangled mystery.
This time And is Rose's father is caught in the center of a deranged fan's obsession. Plus the paranormal activities at the inn are becoming violent. I enjoyed this tangled mystery.
December 1, 2025
A good cozy series, likeable characters
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews