A Steep Independence: A Paranormal Cozy Mystery

Eerie Estes Mysteries #7

by B.I. Skinner

Genres: Cozy Mystery

208 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 3, 2026

Reviews

[Lori H]

Cozy mystery without the murder

I absolutely loved this book! It was the perfect cozy mystery — engaging, suspenseful, and full of heart without relying on a body around every corner. I actually found myself convinced that one of the volunteers at the visitor center was going to end up being the victim so appreciated that the story kept me guessing.

One of my favorite parts was the secondary mystery involving the ghost of a World War 1 soldier and his family. It added so much depth and emotion to the story and the way that mystery was resolved was incredibly heartwarming. The paranormal elements blended seamlessly with the main mystery and made the story feel unique without overwhelming it.

If you enjoy cozy mysteries with likable characters, a touch of the supernatural, and an ending that leaves you smiling, I highly recommend this book. It's an easy 5 star read, and I'm looking forward to continue the series!

[Ashley]

This series is one of my favorite cozy mysteries, I've truly enjoyed the story line and characters!

I really liked the shift this time around in Ellie's character, I don't know if it was the missing murder from the story line, but it felt like she was truly who she says she is: An investigative reporter. Her actions and choices felt more in line with that, than someone who just runs head first into any situation.

I do want to call out that I noticed a bit more inconsistencies in the writing of this book, for example there is a scene where Beverly is with Ellie, and Valerie appears : they start to talk about Beverly like she isn't there, but the author never indicated she left. It might just be my brain that gets stuck on those things, but it felt a bit disruptive in how my brain processed. (I had to go back and re-read to make sure I didn't miss Beverly's exit)

[Noreen L. Guregian]

Great story, as usual!

Once again, a very good book. This one was a tear jerker, but happy tears. I'm sad the ghost didn't really say goodbye, before he left. I love that his pocket watch, was a Waltham watch! Great piece of history, my Grandfather worked at the Waltham watch factory. Indeed, some of the watches are worth a great deal. I love the characters in these books. I hope we read about an engagement soon, and a first date ! Looking forward to the next book at Halloween, then the next at Christmas!!

[Donna L. Zinser]

Real-life like the series

I've enjoyed all seven books in this series. Fun and quirky characters, plus interesting adventures. I do, however, think it's time for Ellie and Noah to start dating. I mean, it's been over a year now, and they're still dancing around their attraction to each other. Don't think it would take so long in the real world.

[Kathleen]

I very much enjoyed this story. This time there wasn't a murder but a theft of a very expensive Ansel Adam's print that was donated for auction to benefit the children's center. There were plenty of twists and turns along the was. And Ellie was also helping a WW1 soldier (ghost) find an important document far his granddaughter. Can't wait for the next book.

[Sanderella]

I loved this book!! I read it in one sitting... It was so good!! 💜☺️🌹

[Janet Epperson]

Great series. Always a good mystery to figure out plus good characters.

[Lavada Haga]

Good book

Ellie and her friends are investigating the theft of an Angel Adams photograph as well as helping the ghost of a World War I soldier locate a letter. It's a good mystery.

[Melisa Simmons]

funread

Completely wonderful and such a fun read! I so enjoy all the fun ladies adventures including the ghosts and their history!

[Robin Castellari]

While this book was not my favorite in the series, l still recommend it. Baxter was particularly hilarious!!

[angie]

A steep independence

I have enjoyed all of the books. I cannot put them down until I finish. Keep up the good work