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A Wicked Salem Mystery #1
It's About Time
In this delightfully spooky series spin-off of Carol J. Perry’s beloved Witch City Mysteries, Lee Mondello and her detective husband have plenty of experience solving crimes in Salem, Massachusetts—and now Lee’s Aunt Ibby is starting a sleuthing career of her own in the witch city…
Nothing can spoil the mood at a one-year-old’s birthday celebration like the cops arriving—but it’s not because the party got too rowdy. Instead, Detective Pete Mondello has a search warrant for a tenant’s apartment. When Lee’s aunt Ibby leads the police to Josh Alper’s locked door, she’s surprised to learn that her renter has redecorated . . . with what appear to be masterpieces stolen from a museum back in 1972.
The paintings may be found, but Alper—an artist involved with a shady, cult-like group—is officially missing. So Ibby and her pals, who hold weekly watch parties of their favorite show, Midsomer Murders, decide to jump in and do some real-life sleuthing using the skills they’ve learned from DCI Barnaby. Ibby, a semi-retired librarian, may be in her sixties, but her tech skills are top-notch . . . and with some help from her friends Betsy and Louisa, as well as O’Ryan the clairvoyant cat, that spells trouble for any criminals in Salem.
But when Alper’s body is found in the Salem Woods—felled by an unusually sophisticated weapon—Ibby must buckle down with her team and prove that she’s just as talented an investigator as her beloved niece . . .
Nothing can spoil the mood at a one-year-old’s birthday celebration like the cops arriving—but it’s not because the party got too rowdy. Instead, Detective Pete Mondello has a search warrant for a tenant’s apartment. When Lee’s aunt Ibby leads the police to Josh Alper’s locked door, she’s surprised to learn that her renter has redecorated . . . with what appear to be masterpieces stolen from a museum back in 1972.
The paintings may be found, but Alper—an artist involved with a shady, cult-like group—is officially missing. So Ibby and her pals, who hold weekly watch parties of their favorite show, Midsomer Murders, decide to jump in and do some real-life sleuthing using the skills they’ve learned from DCI Barnaby. Ibby, a semi-retired librarian, may be in her sixties, but her tech skills are top-notch . . . and with some help from her friends Betsy and Louisa, as well as O’Ryan the clairvoyant cat, that spells trouble for any criminals in Salem.
But when Alper’s body is found in the Salem Woods—felled by an unusually sophisticated weapon—Ibby must buckle down with her team and prove that she’s just as talented an investigator as her beloved niece . . .
267 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2026
About the author
Carol J. Perry
34 books820 followersCarol J. Perry is the author of the Witch City Mystery series and the Haunted Haven series, both from Kensington Publishers. The Witch City stories take place in the magical city of Salem, Massachusetts--the "Witch City." Carol was actually born in Salem (on Halloween eve!) and knows the city well. The Haunted Haven books take place in Carol's adopted home state of Florida. As an experienced travel writer for magazines and newspapers, Carol knows her way around the Sunshine State too. The Salem books are based of course on a real city but Haven, Florida is made up of bits and pieces of some of the Sunshine State's charming older towns--bypassed by the theme parks. Readers of the Witch City books have come to know O'Ryan, a most remarkable cat. The new series introduces Finn, a lovable Golden Retriever.
Carol lives in the Tampa Bay area of Florida with her husband Dan.
Librarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Carol lives in the Tampa Bay area of Florida with her husband Dan.
Librarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
April 13, 2026
Very slow, and while you should know what to expect if you've read the Witch City mysteries, the new series letting Lee's aunt take the lead is even more highly specific, methodical, and repetitive. I was happy to catch back up with old friends, but it is definitely not a starting point for new readers.
July 8, 2026
Thank you to Kensington Books for this gifted ARC.
This is the first book in a cozy mystery spin off series from the Witch City Mysteries. I absolutely love a cozy book, especially as a palate cleanse from heavier reads, which is how I timed this one. And it did hit that refresh moment for me for sure. It is cozy, the main character and the side characters are primarily senior citizens and a really interesting cat. It has the makings of a really cool light read.
I do think this book would be better enjoyed if you've read the core series first. This is its own story and you don't "have to" have read the previous books. But I did feel like I was missing some background from some of these established characters and I think I would have enjoyed it a lot more if I had had that. The setting is awesome and I did love the characters as they were, I just wanted that background. This was sent to me by the publisher so it was my introduction to this author, but it is enough for me to want to pick up the core series and give this another go after getting that background.
Overall I would recommend this as a nice light and slow (the writing is really slow, but it's cozy so it makes sense) read, but I would personally recommend picking up the core series first if you like to have as much character info as you can. It also has some fun recipes in the back of the book which is always a fun time.
*This ARC was given by Kensington Books, all opinions are my own.*
This is the first book in a cozy mystery spin off series from the Witch City Mysteries. I absolutely love a cozy book, especially as a palate cleanse from heavier reads, which is how I timed this one. And it did hit that refresh moment for me for sure. It is cozy, the main character and the side characters are primarily senior citizens and a really interesting cat. It has the makings of a really cool light read.
I do think this book would be better enjoyed if you've read the core series first. This is its own story and you don't "have to" have read the previous books. But I did feel like I was missing some background from some of these established characters and I think I would have enjoyed it a lot more if I had had that. The setting is awesome and I did love the characters as they were, I just wanted that background. This was sent to me by the publisher so it was my introduction to this author, but it is enough for me to want to pick up the core series and give this another go after getting that background.
Overall I would recommend this as a nice light and slow (the writing is really slow, but it's cozy so it makes sense) read, but I would personally recommend picking up the core series first if you like to have as much character info as you can. It also has some fun recipes in the back of the book which is always a fun time.
*This ARC was given by Kensington Books, all opinions are my own.*
July 6, 2026
An enjoyable Cozy Mystery with a dash of the supernatural.
This is a promising start to a new cozy series set in Salem by Carol J Perry that blends amateur sleuthing with a lit bit of (maybe!?) fantasy.
I loved the setting here and the way Perry uses Salem both to stage a mystery and to create a witchy, lightly spooky atmosphere. The fantasy elements are very light and very maybe/maybe not, and that dovetails well with the location and tone of the book.
The mystery itself is just okay, but it’s good enough for a Cozy, especially one that excels at atmospheric detail and sense of place.
Looking forward to the next installment in the series.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
This is a promising start to a new cozy series set in Salem by Carol J Perry that blends amateur sleuthing with a lit bit of (maybe!?) fantasy.
I loved the setting here and the way Perry uses Salem both to stage a mystery and to create a witchy, lightly spooky atmosphere. The fantasy elements are very light and very maybe/maybe not, and that dovetails well with the location and tone of the book.
The mystery itself is just okay, but it’s good enough for a Cozy, especially one that excels at atmospheric detail and sense of place.
Looking forward to the next installment in the series.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
July 11, 2026
Stuck between a 3 star and 4 star review, I chose 3 stars because a couple aspects were a bit hard to swallow - namely the murder weapon (poisoned needle) and Aunt Ibby & her two friends feeling the need to don disguises when partaking in Skype sessions to discuss the investigation.
That said, so many recurring characters from Perry's Witch City series make terrific appearances, particularly O'Ryan - the beloved striped tabby.
AND there just may be an interesting mystery about him woven into this new series...we shall have to wait and see!
That said, so many recurring characters from Perry's Witch City series make terrific appearances, particularly O'Ryan - the beloved striped tabby.
AND there just may be an interesting mystery about him woven into this new series...we shall have to wait and see!
July 6, 2026
I would recommend reading the previous series before jumping into this. Unfortunately I did not, and it made the characters hard to connect with because we didn't really get to know them all that well. I think a spin-off would be more successful with a bit more scene setting at least in the first one. This is super cozy but started to drag a bit by the end.
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy; my thoughts and review are my own.
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy; my thoughts and review are my own.
July 7, 2026
This started out so well, but really ended with a whimper. I am reviewing this novel as an ARC thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. The premise was so intriguing! I just wish it continued throughout the story. Apparently this is the first book of a new series focusing on a character from an existing series. I have not read the other series, and I don’t think you have to, to understand what’s happening in this book. You are caught up pretty quickly on the relationships and who everyone is.
As I said, good start! The location of Salem, the trio of mystery solvers (one of whom is a librarian!) and a gorgeous old house. We also have a somewhat supernatural cat, who was my favorite. Perhaps I’ve been really into cat mysteries lately. Also, our trio of mystery solvers are big fans of Midsommer Murders (me too!) and want to solve their cases methodically like Barnaby. They take notes! They pay attention! They don’t waste any time deluding themselves that they won’t get involved - they are nosy from the start, and plan their movements accordingly. That was very refreshing.
However, the overall story felt choppy. It was almost like the author had all of the ingredients for The Who-dun-it, but couldn’t commit to where and when to reveal them. It felt like we missed conversations and realizations. It was almost as if the author didn’t know which clues gave the right amount of impact. There was a particular character that when we met them, I thought “oh, clearly they are a bad person” but our main character was convinced that they were super nice for no reason at all. I remember writing down “why would they talk this way about themselves if they weren’t hiding something?” and then our main character clumsily papers over it with “but they are nice”. It felt so obvious. It felt, in a word, clumsy. And on top of all that, the big reveal plus the epilogue was over in 3 pages. What a rushed ending! I didn’t even have time to gloat that I was right about who committed the crime!
To recap, strong premise, great location, fun main characters (that I wish I had more time to know) but a rushed ending, clumsy interlude with sporadic clue reveals.
As I said, good start! The location of Salem, the trio of mystery solvers (one of whom is a librarian!) and a gorgeous old house. We also have a somewhat supernatural cat, who was my favorite. Perhaps I’ve been really into cat mysteries lately. Also, our trio of mystery solvers are big fans of Midsommer Murders (me too!) and want to solve their cases methodically like Barnaby. They take notes! They pay attention! They don’t waste any time deluding themselves that they won’t get involved - they are nosy from the start, and plan their movements accordingly. That was very refreshing.
However, the overall story felt choppy. It was almost like the author had all of the ingredients for The Who-dun-it, but couldn’t commit to where and when to reveal them. It felt like we missed conversations and realizations. It was almost as if the author didn’t know which clues gave the right amount of impact. There was a particular character that when we met them, I thought “oh, clearly they are a bad person” but our main character was convinced that they were super nice for no reason at all. I remember writing down “why would they talk this way about themselves if they weren’t hiding something?” and then our main character clumsily papers over it with “but they are nice”. It felt so obvious. It felt, in a word, clumsy. And on top of all that, the big reveal plus the epilogue was over in 3 pages. What a rushed ending! I didn’t even have time to gloat that I was right about who committed the crime!
To recap, strong premise, great location, fun main characters (that I wish I had more time to know) but a rushed ending, clumsy interlude with sporadic clue reveals.
July 6, 2026
It’s About Time is a charmingly spooky and wonderfully cozy addition to Carol J. Perry’s Salem universe—this time giving Aunt Ibby her moment in the spotlight, and she absolutely earns it. The novel blends mystery, mischief, and a dash of witchy atmosphere into something that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.
Ibby is such a delight to follow: sharp, tech‑savvy, and quietly tenacious, she’s the kind of amateur sleuth you instantly root for. Her dynamic with Betsy, Louisa, and the ever‑enigmatic O’Ryan the clairvoyant cat adds a lovely layer of humour and camaraderie. Their Midsomer Murders‑inspired sleuthing sessions give the book a playful energy, and the way they apply “DCI Barnaby logic” to real‑life crime is just fun.
The mystery itself is engaging from the start—stolen masterpieces hidden behind a tenant’s locked door, a missing artist with ties to a cultish group, and a murder weapon that’s far more sophisticated than anyone expects. Perry keeps the pace lively without sacrificing the cozy charm that fans of Witch City Mysteries love. Salem feels vivid and lived‑in, and the mix of modern tech skills with old‑school intuition makes Ibby’s investigation especially enjoyable.
This spin‑off stands confidently on its own while still offering the familiar warmth of Perry’s world. It’s the kind of mystery you breeze through with a smile, appreciating its gentle spookiness, clever twists, and the joy of watching a sixty‑something librarian prove she’s every bit as capable as her detective niece.
A delightful start to a new series—light, engaging, and perfect for readers who love their mysteries with heart, humour, and just a hint of magic.
With thanks to Carol Perry, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Ibby is such a delight to follow: sharp, tech‑savvy, and quietly tenacious, she’s the kind of amateur sleuth you instantly root for. Her dynamic with Betsy, Louisa, and the ever‑enigmatic O’Ryan the clairvoyant cat adds a lovely layer of humour and camaraderie. Their Midsomer Murders‑inspired sleuthing sessions give the book a playful energy, and the way they apply “DCI Barnaby logic” to real‑life crime is just fun.
The mystery itself is engaging from the start—stolen masterpieces hidden behind a tenant’s locked door, a missing artist with ties to a cultish group, and a murder weapon that’s far more sophisticated than anyone expects. Perry keeps the pace lively without sacrificing the cozy charm that fans of Witch City Mysteries love. Salem feels vivid and lived‑in, and the mix of modern tech skills with old‑school intuition makes Ibby’s investigation especially enjoyable.
This spin‑off stands confidently on its own while still offering the familiar warmth of Perry’s world. It’s the kind of mystery you breeze through with a smile, appreciating its gentle spookiness, clever twists, and the joy of watching a sixty‑something librarian prove she’s every bit as capable as her detective niece.
A delightful start to a new series—light, engaging, and perfect for readers who love their mysteries with heart, humour, and just a hint of magic.
With thanks to Carol Perry, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
July 16, 2026
📚 Read as a book
📃 272 pages
⏱ 4 hours
📱📖 Read on Kindle
ARC via NetGalley
🏷️ Publisher: Kensington Cozies
Yes, I know this is a spin-off. Yes, I know Lee Berrett Mondello isn't in the book. Yes, I know all that, but I still wanted Lee. I still craved for those visions in the shiny surfaces. I still yearned for magic in the mystery. Aunt Ibby game me mystery, but without the magic.
Aunt Ibby and her two friends go about solving a crime in this book, which kicks off a brand-new series where these three amateur sleuths take centre stage. And look, the mystery itself works. It's a straight-cut cozy with all the drama, fun, and sleuthing you would look for: stolen paintings, a shady cult-adjascent art group, a body in the woods, the whole deal. There's real craft here.
But as a true Carol J. Perry fan, I kept waiting for that spark, the paranormal kind. It never showed up. I enjoyed the journey. I really did. Ibby's tech-savvy sixty-something energy is charming, and O'Ryan the cat is doing his best. But I don't think Aunt Ibby is the one I'll be following into book two. I'll take the mystery. I'll just keep missing the magic.
Would I recommend it?
If you love a clean, well-plotted cozy with no paranormal elements, this one delivers. It has solid pacing, a fun cast of amateur sleuths, and a satisfying whodunit. But if you are coming from Witch City series hoping for a taste of Lee's magic, temper your expectations. It's a good mystery. Just not the mystery I was hoping for.
📃 272 pages
⏱ 4 hours
📱📖 Read on Kindle
ARC via NetGalley
🏷️ Publisher: Kensington Cozies
Yes, I know this is a spin-off. Yes, I know Lee Berrett Mondello isn't in the book. Yes, I know all that, but I still wanted Lee. I still craved for those visions in the shiny surfaces. I still yearned for magic in the mystery. Aunt Ibby game me mystery, but without the magic.
Aunt Ibby and her two friends go about solving a crime in this book, which kicks off a brand-new series where these three amateur sleuths take centre stage. And look, the mystery itself works. It's a straight-cut cozy with all the drama, fun, and sleuthing you would look for: stolen paintings, a shady cult-adjascent art group, a body in the woods, the whole deal. There's real craft here.
But as a true Carol J. Perry fan, I kept waiting for that spark, the paranormal kind. It never showed up. I enjoyed the journey. I really did. Ibby's tech-savvy sixty-something energy is charming, and O'Ryan the cat is doing his best. But I don't think Aunt Ibby is the one I'll be following into book two. I'll take the mystery. I'll just keep missing the magic.
Would I recommend it?
If you love a clean, well-plotted cozy with no paranormal elements, this one delivers. It has solid pacing, a fun cast of amateur sleuths, and a satisfying whodunit. But if you are coming from Witch City series hoping for a taste of Lee's magic, temper your expectations. It's a good mystery. Just not the mystery I was hoping for.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Lee and Pete Mondello's daughter Ella Marie has just turned one and is having her party at her Great Aunt Ibby's house, including the popular smash cake photo op. Unfortunately, just as they are about to begin the police arrive, with a search warrant for one of the two apartments she rents out as short term lets. Things go from bad to worse when her other temporary tenant discovers a body with links to an art theft ring which begins to move far too close to home. Along with besties Louisa and Betsy, Ibby is determined to discover what happened, especially as her niece and new mum Lee is no longer investigating murders. With danger moving ever closer can they solve the case before they become the next victims?
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cozies, but the opinions expressed are my own. The problem with spin-off series can be that they aren't all that different from the original. This isn't the case here although I did get a little put off by the continual mention off all the valuable items in Ibby's home but as it linked into the storyline it hopefully won't be as noticeable in the next book. Ibby, Betsy, and Louisa work things out as a trio, are great note takers and have an extensive number of friends whose experiences and expertise they can call on. I look forward to book two, but have to admit I did miss Lee doing the investigating.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cozies, but the opinions expressed are my own. The problem with spin-off series can be that they aren't all that different from the original. This isn't the case here although I did get a little put off by the continual mention off all the valuable items in Ibby's home but as it linked into the storyline it hopefully won't be as noticeable in the next book. Ibby, Betsy, and Louisa work things out as a trio, are great note takers and have an extensive number of friends whose experiences and expertise they can call on. I look forward to book two, but have to admit I did miss Lee doing the investigating.
July 27, 2026
I really liked the Witch City Cozy Mystery series and was frustrated when the author had Lee get married and then have a baby, which for me ruins so many good series. I am not a fan of husbands and babies ruining my favorite cozies. Apparently the author's way of getting past this boring phase of Lee's life was to spin the series off and bring Aunt Ibby to main character status and relegate Lee and Baby to secondary character status. Ibby was always one of my favorite side characters, but she didn't quite fill the role of main character.
What was missing for me in this spin off series is the "magic." Lee's ability to see clues in shiny surfaces was what made Witch City interesting. Ibby missed so many red flags and warning signs along the way. I'm sure I was not the only reader screaming at her about not seeing the clues right in front of her! I'll still stick with the series and hope that the author finds a way to sneak a little more magic into it. It's not too late for Ibby to discover she's a kitchen witch!
The name of their sleuthing group, 34T was clever, but the way it is written makes me read it as thirty four tea instead of the intended three for tea. Then I would remember and correct myself, which took me out of the story. Maybe with a few spaces like 3 4 T would have helped?
What was missing for me in this spin off series is the "magic." Lee's ability to see clues in shiny surfaces was what made Witch City interesting. Ibby missed so many red flags and warning signs along the way. I'm sure I was not the only reader screaming at her about not seeing the clues right in front of her! I'll still stick with the series and hope that the author finds a way to sneak a little more magic into it. It's not too late for Ibby to discover she's a kitchen witch!
The name of their sleuthing group, 34T was clever, but the way it is written makes me read it as thirty four tea instead of the intended three for tea. Then I would remember and correct myself, which took me out of the story. Maybe with a few spaces like 3 4 T would have helped?
June 30, 2026
📚🔍 Time travel, cult mysteries, cozy sleuths, and classic whodunits? This reading stack kept me guessing from beginning to end!
Holloway by Elana K. Arnold delivered an emotional and thought-provoking story about grief, healing, and finding your way through impossible circumstances. Murder at the Vicarage by Agatha Christie reminded me why Miss Marple remains one of my favorite detectives, with a clever mystery and a village full of suspects. It's About Time by Carol J. Perry was a fun, cozy mystery packed with quirky characters, amateur sleuthing, and just the right amount of charm. Meanwhile, Vervain Hollow by Catriona Silvey brought an eerie atmosphere, cult intrigue, and unsettling twists that kept me turning pages.
Together, these books offered a little bit of everything, historical mystery, contemporary suspense, emotional journeys, and cozy crime-solving. Whether you love classic detectives, haunting mysteries, or character-driven stories, this collection has something worth adding to your TBR.
✨️ Thank you, Clarion Books, William Morrow, Harper Collins, Black Dog & Leventhal Pub, Kensington Cozies, Union Square, and the authors for sharing these books with us!
Holloway by Elana K. Arnold delivered an emotional and thought-provoking story about grief, healing, and finding your way through impossible circumstances. Murder at the Vicarage by Agatha Christie reminded me why Miss Marple remains one of my favorite detectives, with a clever mystery and a village full of suspects. It's About Time by Carol J. Perry was a fun, cozy mystery packed with quirky characters, amateur sleuthing, and just the right amount of charm. Meanwhile, Vervain Hollow by Catriona Silvey brought an eerie atmosphere, cult intrigue, and unsettling twists that kept me turning pages.
Together, these books offered a little bit of everything, historical mystery, contemporary suspense, emotional journeys, and cozy crime-solving. Whether you love classic detectives, haunting mysteries, or character-driven stories, this collection has something worth adding to your TBR.
✨️ Thank you, Clarion Books, William Morrow, Harper Collins, Black Dog & Leventhal Pub, Kensington Cozies, Union Square, and the authors for sharing these books with us!
August 3, 2026
I really enjoyed Carol J. Petty’s Witch City Mysteries and was sad when the series ended but happy when I heard that there was going to be a spinoff series featuring Lee Mondello’s Aunt Ibby. I was looking forward to reading “It's About Time”, the first book in the series, but I was ultimately disappointed. I do enjoy Aunt Ibby as a character and her friends Betsy and Louisa, her cat O’Ryan who seems to have mysterious powers, Lee and her husband Pete (who have cameo appearances in this book, Pete more than Lee), and the Salem, MA setting. But while I like Ibby, Betsy, and Louisa as side characters, I’m not really sure they work as main characters. They seem far too trusting, telling relative strangers about the case and Ibby’s antique collection. The mystery itself wasn’t bad – one of the people renting from Ibby is murdered, and features a unique murder weapon – but the overall plot is a bit convoluted and some seemingly important clues end up going nowhere. Hopefully this first book is just suffering from growing pains and the next book will be better.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
July 4, 2026
Rating: 2/5 ⭐️⭐️
My thoughts: I am a new reader for this author and was very excited to dive into this one but sadly ended up being a little on the disappointed side. I didn't learn until after the fact that this was a spin off series and that this character was already established in previous books, so I had no idea about her history. It started off well enough but then it seemed like it started to drag and become a bit repetitive. It also abruptly ended and went straight into the epilog which took me by surprise especially after waiting the whole book to find out who the culprit was.
Some things I did like about this book though was that it was set in Salem and had all the cozy witchy kind of vibes. The old lady friend group getting together to solve mysteries was really cute as well. I also really loved the cat. I feel like this book would be perfect for those that love cozy mysteries especially around fall and spooky season.
Thank you so much to Kensington for sending me an ARC of this book! I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity.
My thoughts: I am a new reader for this author and was very excited to dive into this one but sadly ended up being a little on the disappointed side. I didn't learn until after the fact that this was a spin off series and that this character was already established in previous books, so I had no idea about her history. It started off well enough but then it seemed like it started to drag and become a bit repetitive. It also abruptly ended and went straight into the epilog which took me by surprise especially after waiting the whole book to find out who the culprit was.
Some things I did like about this book though was that it was set in Salem and had all the cozy witchy kind of vibes. The old lady friend group getting together to solve mysteries was really cute as well. I also really loved the cat. I feel like this book would be perfect for those that love cozy mysteries especially around fall and spooky season.
Thank you so much to Kensington for sending me an ARC of this book! I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This cozy mystery is the first in a new Wicked Salem Mystery, a spin-off from the author's Witch City series. The main character is the aunt of the lead in the original series. Isobel "Ibby" Russell has started renting rooms in her house. She is shocked to learn one of her tenants is not only missing, but could be involved in a decades-old art heist. She and her two best friends are on the case, investigating it the way they think their favorite TV detective, Inspector Barnaby would.
The book gets off to a great start and Ibby, Louisa, and Betsy are fun together and the Midsomer references are great for fans of the show. There are some pacing issues, though, and the middle of the book really slows down. The ending is satisfying, though, and I would be interested to see what comes next in this series.
I received an advance copy of this ebook from Kensington Books and NetGalley, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
The book gets off to a great start and Ibby, Louisa, and Betsy are fun together and the Midsomer references are great for fans of the show. There are some pacing issues, though, and the middle of the book really slows down. The ending is satisfying, though, and I would be interested to see what comes next in this series.
I received an advance copy of this ebook from Kensington Books and NetGalley, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
July 1, 2026
I really liked Aunt Ibby’s character as well as her two besties, Louisa and Betsy. They’d apparently helped Lee sleuth in the Witch City series which this was spun off from. I’ve got almost all that series so now I really need to concentrate on reading it. I read the first book in Witch City for a book club discussion that never happened probably at least 7+ years ago and never got it marked as read, but my point is, I already liked Aunt Ibby’s character from that book.
Ibby and her besties dusted off their sleuthing notebooks and were back on the case when one of Ibby’s tenants was murdered, and Ibby was sure it had something to do with a cold case Pete told her about. When she found herself in the crosshairs of a killer, she did what any former high school sports star would do—and she won that showdown hands-down.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
Ibby and her besties dusted off their sleuthing notebooks and were back on the case when one of Ibby’s tenants was murdered, and Ibby was sure it had something to do with a cold case Pete told her about. When she found herself in the crosshairs of a killer, she did what any former high school sports star would do—and she won that showdown hands-down.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
July 5, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️
It's About Time by Carol J. Perry
Ibby is a semi-retired librarian who also lets out rooms in her house as short-term rentals. Her one permanent roommate is O'Ryan, her clairvoyant 🐈. Together with the help of her friends Betsy and Louisa, they set out to solve the murder of one of her renters.
I really wanted to love this one, but it fell a bit short for me. This was my first time reading this author's work, and I understand that this is a spin-off from an established series. I just felt like there were too many characters and not a lot of back story for them. At times, this was like watching an episode of Dateline. Very repetitive! The ending also felt very abrupt.
While it wasn't my favorite, I would be open to reading the next book in this series or another book by this author.
I received an ARC of this book, but these opinions are my own. I would like to thank the author, Carol J. Perry and Kensington for allowing me the privilege of reading her work. ❤️
It's About Time by Carol J. Perry
Ibby is a semi-retired librarian who also lets out rooms in her house as short-term rentals. Her one permanent roommate is O'Ryan, her clairvoyant 🐈. Together with the help of her friends Betsy and Louisa, they set out to solve the murder of one of her renters.
I really wanted to love this one, but it fell a bit short for me. This was my first time reading this author's work, and I understand that this is a spin-off from an established series. I just felt like there were too many characters and not a lot of back story for them. At times, this was like watching an episode of Dateline. Very repetitive! The ending also felt very abrupt.
While it wasn't my favorite, I would be open to reading the next book in this series or another book by this author.
I received an ARC of this book, but these opinions are my own. I would like to thank the author, Carol J. Perry and Kensington for allowing me the privilege of reading her work. ❤️
July 11, 2026
I was not aware that this is a spin-off series focusing on a character from the main series, so I might have missed some details and relationships because of that. Do I think it would have added a bit of context? Probably, but I can confirm that it also works as a standalone story.
The overall plot is your typical whodunit story, but with a bit of magic, a weird cat, and some very determined ladies who will not stop until they get to the bottom of what really happened. Was it a bit chaotic at times? Absolutely. Did some of the connections and discoveries seem a little too far-fetched? Definitely. At the end of the day, though, it was entertaining, had a unique charm, and their persistence felt like a constant push and pull between a *bit over the top* and *endearingly charming*.
It's an easy read for in between books, but it's not one that will make it onto my list of top reads.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The overall plot is your typical whodunit story, but with a bit of magic, a weird cat, and some very determined ladies who will not stop until they get to the bottom of what really happened. Was it a bit chaotic at times? Absolutely. Did some of the connections and discoveries seem a little too far-fetched? Definitely. At the end of the day, though, it was entertaining, had a unique charm, and their persistence felt like a constant push and pull between a *bit over the top* and *endearingly charming*.
It's an easy read for in between books, but it's not one that will make it onto my list of top reads.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was a huge fan of this author’s Windy City series, so I was excited to see that the character of Aunt Ibby was going to get her own series. I loved her character especially since she’s a part-time librarian. I eagerly began this, and I was drawn in for the most part. I know it can be hard to start a new series, so I’m always a little lenient with series-starters, and this could be a little uneven at times. While I did enjoy this one, I also think that new readers are going to be a little confused with all the characters from Lee’s series that the author brings into this one. However, I also think that will resolve itself with more books. Overall, I really did love seeing Ibby and her friends, and I really do hope there will be more books, and that this will become a series. There’s a lot of potential here. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
June 14, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from NetGalley
This book had all the ingredients of something I should have enjoyed: a cozy mystery, Salem as the setting, a group of longtime friends, and even a sassy cat. Unfortunately, it just didn't quite work for me.
The story follows three friends of a certain ago who investigate the murder of one of their tenants. I liked the Salem setting and the subtle witchy atmosphere it brought to the story, but I had a hard time connecting with the characters and staying invested in the mystery itself. I honestly resonated with the cat the most.
I can definitely see this appealing to readers who love traditional cozy mysteries, especially those featuring older protagonists and small-town charm. It just wasn't the right fit for my reading tastes.
This book had all the ingredients of something I should have enjoyed: a cozy mystery, Salem as the setting, a group of longtime friends, and even a sassy cat. Unfortunately, it just didn't quite work for me.
The story follows three friends of a certain ago who investigate the murder of one of their tenants. I liked the Salem setting and the subtle witchy atmosphere it brought to the story, but I had a hard time connecting with the characters and staying invested in the mystery itself. I honestly resonated with the cat the most.
I can definitely see this appealing to readers who love traditional cozy mysteries, especially those featuring older protagonists and small-town charm. It just wasn't the right fit for my reading tastes.
June 30, 2026
Aunt Ibby gets her own book in this spin off of the Witch City series. She and her sleuthing friends (Betsy and Louisa) have jokingly called themselves "The Angels", but now they decide to change their name to 3 - 4- T (Three for Tea) because they have their meetings in a local tea room.
One of Aunt Ibby's renters is found murdered and they are on the case. O'Ryan gets injured (really disliked that part!) but is luckily ok.
All the regulars from the Witch City books are present, and I really enjoyed this!
If you love the Witch City series as I do, you should love this book, but I'm not sure it would work well as a stand alone. There are just too many different characters, and they all play important parts.
I really hope this will be a new series.
Nice cover as well!
One of Aunt Ibby's renters is found murdered and they are on the case. O'Ryan gets injured (really disliked that part!) but is luckily ok.
All the regulars from the Witch City books are present, and I really enjoyed this!
If you love the Witch City series as I do, you should love this book, but I'm not sure it would work well as a stand alone. There are just too many different characters, and they all play important parts.
I really hope this will be a new series.
Nice cover as well!
July 19, 2026
I'm giving this book 5 stars because the book is well-written and I enjoyed the storyline immensely. However, I read this as an audiobook and the narrator, Leanne Woodward, was not engaging. In fact, she read slowly and you could tell she was reading the book. No shift in voice between characters made it difficult to know who was speaking. If I was rating the narrator, I would have given it 2 stars. So I recommend you read it as a book, rather than an audiobook. I really wish Carol J. Perry could have gotten the same narrator that read her other series this spinoff was based on. That was C.S.E. Cooney, and she is a wonderful narrator. Nonetheless, the book was great and I'm not going to penalize the book or the author for the narrator.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
#ItsAboutTime #NetGalley
This is a first in a new series featuring Ibby, Louisa, and Betsy, a trio of friends from Salem, Massachusetts.
Ibby is the aunt of Lee Mondello, main character in the witch city mysteries.
I did like the concept of the ladies working together, 34T is a great name for their investigation name.
Ibby's tenant is murdered, and she and her friends can't help but investigate, it's one of their favorite pastimes.
I felt like some parts dragged on, but I find that happens in the first book in a new series.
I'm excited to see what else 34T gets involved in and I am happy to recommend this new book.
This is a first in a new series featuring Ibby, Louisa, and Betsy, a trio of friends from Salem, Massachusetts.
Ibby is the aunt of Lee Mondello, main character in the witch city mysteries.
I did like the concept of the ladies working together, 34T is a great name for their investigation name.
Ibby's tenant is murdered, and she and her friends can't help but investigate, it's one of their favorite pastimes.
I felt like some parts dragged on, but I find that happens in the first book in a new series.
I'm excited to see what else 34T gets involved in and I am happy to recommend this new book.
July 1, 2026
I was sad when Lee and Pete Mondello had their baby, because I knew we wouldn’t see Lee putting herself at risk to solve murders anymore. But when Aunt Ibby and The Angels took over and became 34T? I was thrilled!
Seriously, O’Ryan and the gang would have been seriously missed and I am glad that the author found a way to keep things going in Witch City without putting Lee and her precious bundle in danger. Hopefully we’ll see the Mondellos in each book as 34T continues to pick up the mantle and run with it.
Seriously, O’Ryan and the gang would have been seriously missed and I am glad that the author found a way to keep things going in Witch City without putting Lee and her precious bundle in danger. Hopefully we’ll see the Mondellos in each book as 34T continues to pick up the mantle and run with it.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I enjoyed this book. The characters are likeable, the story was good, murder suspect believable. The setting was good, and all of the characters were appropriate. I enjoyed the 3 women detectives. There might have been a bit too much going on, too many to choose from, or it may just be my life at this time. I just felt as if I couldn't keep track of everyone.
I plan on reading more in this series.
I plan on reading more in this series.
July 6, 2026
Wonderful Spin Off
I have always loved Carol J. Perry's books, and eagerly devour them as,soon as they come out. This latest book has Aunty Ibby as the central,character, and she shines through beautifully. The book has the same flow, well crafted well rounded characters, many familiar, as in the Witch City books. It also has the same tightly woven plot. Oh yes. The recipes at the end of the book have not been forgotten.
I have always loved Carol J. Perry's books, and eagerly devour them as,soon as they come out. This latest book has Aunty Ibby as the central,character, and she shines through beautifully. The book has the same flow, well crafted well rounded characters, many familiar, as in the Witch City books. It also has the same tightly woven plot. Oh yes. The recipes at the end of the book have not been forgotten.
July 30, 2026
I am a fan of the Witch City mysteries by the same author with most of the same characters. Shifting the focus of the mysteries to a new main character who is somewhat familiar should have made this feel like another fun visit to Salem. Unfortunately, Ibby was never my favorite character, and her ramblings are overly descriptive and tedious. It slows the investigation down too much and I eventually gave up on this book because of it.
July 15, 2026
This is a spin off of another wonderful cozy series I enjoy.
The story was a bit slow to get going but then it picked up.
It was an interesting premise and it was delightful to see these characters as the main feature of this new series.
I look forward to reading the next one.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
The story was a bit slow to get going but then it picked up.
It was an interesting premise and it was delightful to see these characters as the main feature of this new series.
I look forward to reading the next one.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
July 17, 2026
This novel involves some senior sleuthing. You’re going to love the eccentric characters and chuckle at some of their antics. After watching their favorite murder mystery shows on television, they put the skills they have learned to solve a mystery or two of their own. There are recipes included. Enjoy!
July 23, 2026
I really enjoy the other two series by this author, especially the Witch City mysteries. Since the current book branches off from Witch City, the characters are familiar and enjoyable. I wish there were more paranormal involvement, but the story is fun and entertaining. Looking forward to the next book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I liked this book a lot, but because I haven't yet read the series that this spun off from, I felt like I came in in the middle of the series, and I felt like I was missing something. I loved the characters and the murder was very interesting. All in all it was a fun read.
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