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The Chapelwick Mysteries #1
The Skeletons of Scarborough House
Welcome to Chapelwick, a leafy English town in the hills of Shropshire, where chocolate fudge cake comes served with a side of murder.
Scarborough House is haunted, and it’s not doing much for Donovan Scarborough’s investment portfolio. No one wants to buy a place with levitating crockery, or (the wrong kind of) rhythmic pounding throughout the night.
Luckily, Melody “I-See-Dead-People” Bittersweet has just launched her own ghostbusting agency with best friend Marina, geeky, keen Arthur, and a one-eared pug called Lestat. They’re quick to take the case, even if it has already sort of (definitely) been given to Leo Dark, Melody’s rakish, despicable ex.
Melody soon discovers the resident phantoms are three brothers, one who was murdered at twenty, while the others lived to old age. But did the family exile the right person, or did the true killer get away with it?
Donovan Scarborough doesn’t care who solves the case. Whoever gets rid of the ghosts gets paid.
Can Melody and her new crew untangle the mystery, and bring the brothers peace, before Leo? Or will his distracting sexiness and Melody’s bonkers family cause the agency to fall at its first hurdle?
This is the PERFECT choice for fans of HY Hanna, Janet Evanovich, MC Beaton, and Gina LaManna, who’ll find themselves completely hooked and crying with laughter as they join Melody and her crew on their spooktastic adventure.
This book was previously published as Melody Bittersweet and the Girls' Ghostbusting Agency.
What everyone’s saying about The Skeletons of Scarborough House
‘I laughed so hard that I had to stop drinking my coffee for fear of spurting it all over my desk ... I seriously can't remember the last time I laughed this hard ... absofreakinglutely hilarious.’ 5* Well Read Pirate Queen
‘Absolutely fantastic from the first page. Did not stop smiling once. Emotional at parts but a super fun read throughout. The writing was amazing and had me totally hooked. Cannot wait for the sequel!’ Book Geek Writes
‘Absolutely hilarious ... I have not laughed like that in a very, very long time ... It’s a book that just keeps giving, right until the very end ... Sheer brilliance!’ 5* The Writing Garnet
‘I couldn't put this book down ... so many comical moments, I was either laughing or smiling. If you are in need of cheering up definitely read this book ... brilliant!’ 5* Rae Reads
‘Unputdownable, captivating and laugh out loud funny!! A definite must read!! 5+ Stars!! ... I loved this story!’ Words Turn Me On
‘One of my favourite new books ... so much heart, so much joy, so much laughter, and warmth. It's funny one minute, and has you tearing up the next ... absolutely love this book ... amazing.’ 5* Bookish Escapes
‘An absolute scream from start to finish! ... Should you ever find yourself in dire need of cheering up, this will do the trick - guaranteed! IT’S FUN, IT’S FRISKY and IT’S FABULOUS! I'm already...
Scarborough House is haunted, and it’s not doing much for Donovan Scarborough’s investment portfolio. No one wants to buy a place with levitating crockery, or (the wrong kind of) rhythmic pounding throughout the night.
Luckily, Melody “I-See-Dead-People” Bittersweet has just launched her own ghostbusting agency with best friend Marina, geeky, keen Arthur, and a one-eared pug called Lestat. They’re quick to take the case, even if it has already sort of (definitely) been given to Leo Dark, Melody’s rakish, despicable ex.
Melody soon discovers the resident phantoms are three brothers, one who was murdered at twenty, while the others lived to old age. But did the family exile the right person, or did the true killer get away with it?
Donovan Scarborough doesn’t care who solves the case. Whoever gets rid of the ghosts gets paid.
Can Melody and her new crew untangle the mystery, and bring the brothers peace, before Leo? Or will his distracting sexiness and Melody’s bonkers family cause the agency to fall at its first hurdle?
This is the PERFECT choice for fans of HY Hanna, Janet Evanovich, MC Beaton, and Gina LaManna, who’ll find themselves completely hooked and crying with laughter as they join Melody and her crew on their spooktastic adventure.
This book was previously published as Melody Bittersweet and the Girls' Ghostbusting Agency.
What everyone’s saying about The Skeletons of Scarborough House
‘I laughed so hard that I had to stop drinking my coffee for fear of spurting it all over my desk ... I seriously can't remember the last time I laughed this hard ... absofreakinglutely hilarious.’ 5* Well Read Pirate Queen
‘Absolutely fantastic from the first page. Did not stop smiling once. Emotional at parts but a super fun read throughout. The writing was amazing and had me totally hooked. Cannot wait for the sequel!’ Book Geek Writes
‘Absolutely hilarious ... I have not laughed like that in a very, very long time ... It’s a book that just keeps giving, right until the very end ... Sheer brilliance!’ 5* The Writing Garnet
‘I couldn't put this book down ... so many comical moments, I was either laughing or smiling. If you are in need of cheering up definitely read this book ... brilliant!’ 5* Rae Reads
‘Unputdownable, captivating and laugh out loud funny!! A definite must read!! 5+ Stars!! ... I loved this story!’ Words Turn Me On
‘One of my favourite new books ... so much heart, so much joy, so much laughter, and warmth. It's funny one minute, and has you tearing up the next ... absolutely love this book ... amazing.’ 5* Bookish Escapes
‘An absolute scream from start to finish! ... Should you ever find yourself in dire need of cheering up, this will do the trick - guaranteed! IT’S FUN, IT’S FRISKY and IT’S FABULOUS! I'm already...
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 14, 2016
379 people are currently reading
720 people want to read
About the author
Kitty French
36 books2,142 followersRomantic comedy and paranormal comedy writer for Bookouture. Wine drinker, fairy light addict, disorganised wife and mom.
Also writes romantic comedy as Kat French for HarperCollins.
Also writes romantic comedy as Kat French for HarperCollins.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews
February 10, 2017
5 - "My name is Melody Bittersweet, and I see dead people." Stars!
Kitty French has literally taken all the best bits from the films Ghostbusters and Ghost added a little of Richard Curtis’s charm when it comes to characters and quirks and delivered an absolute hilarious, and heartfelt romp through the world of paranormal occurrences.
There is so much going on in this book, what with a cast of dozens; human, ghost and in pet form, a plot that offers up romance, suspense, comedy and some absolute corking escapades, I could not put Melody Bittersweet down, in fact I pretty much devoured it in one sitting.
I think what I love about Kitty’s less erotic offerings is that the story isn’t strongly based around any one thing, everything that is thrown in seems to enhance the main plot points to just make everything brighter and more complex because of it, sort of like a painting, that as the artist adds more and more layers becomes clearer and yet more detailed at the same time.
This agency is mine. I made it happen from spun-sugar dreams and superhero hopes and the luck of the Magic 8 Ball.
This story had so many things about it to like, I loved the Bittersweet women, all a little kooky but endearing in their own ways. Best friend Marina and trainee Ghostbuster Artie were the perfect sidekicks to Melody. The scoundrel of the piece in Leo Dark and his personal Fembots, being Melody’s ex, and competition in the ghost hunting world there was more than a bit of chemistry going on, on that front.
"Don’t tell me we have incompatible brains, because from the neck down we are best fucking friends."
Dastardly reporter, and paranormal disbeliever, Fletcher Gunn, who as it turns out isn’t as dastardly as one initially thinks, and is actually a bit of a dirty mouthed sweetie when riled up. The love-hate between the two of them was great and I am expecting things to heat up more as Kitty releases further books in the series.
"You’re tough as nails and I’m irritating as hell. I still think we should lay our hostilities aside for the evening and have wild sex, because I can still taste you on my lips and you’re delicious."
And I cannot, not mention Lestat the one eared pug, who pretty much stole the spotlight in every paragraph he was in!
"Your dog is humping my leg."
This is one of those stories that you go into not quite knowing what to fully expect. And the author keeps you on your toes all the way through it. I will reiterate I couldn’t put it down, there have been few books that have done this to me of late and it was a refreshing change to feel excitement at what I was reading.
I’m twenty-seven, single and so damn lonely that I’m slowly going crazy.
But for all the comedy and derring-do, there are some extremely poignant moments in this one as well, Kitty literally took me from laughing to crying in the matter of a paragraph or two, the story of the Scarborough brothers, and the house they are haunting is intrinsic to the whole plot but as discoveries start to be made in relation to their deaths and subsequent haunting of Scarborough House, Kitty managed to pull the darker aspect of this part of the plot through with the lightness of everything else that was happening around its telling.
I could rave about this book for ages, but I think the joy of this story is definitely reading and discovering how awesome it is yourself.
I cannot wait for Kitty to give us more stories from this series and as soon as possible please!
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
Kitty French has literally taken all the best bits from the films Ghostbusters and Ghost added a little of Richard Curtis’s charm when it comes to characters and quirks and delivered an absolute hilarious, and heartfelt romp through the world of paranormal occurrences.
There is so much going on in this book, what with a cast of dozens; human, ghost and in pet form, a plot that offers up romance, suspense, comedy and some absolute corking escapades, I could not put Melody Bittersweet down, in fact I pretty much devoured it in one sitting.
I think what I love about Kitty’s less erotic offerings is that the story isn’t strongly based around any one thing, everything that is thrown in seems to enhance the main plot points to just make everything brighter and more complex because of it, sort of like a painting, that as the artist adds more and more layers becomes clearer and yet more detailed at the same time.
This agency is mine. I made it happen from spun-sugar dreams and superhero hopes and the luck of the Magic 8 Ball.
This story had so many things about it to like, I loved the Bittersweet women, all a little kooky but endearing in their own ways. Best friend Marina and trainee Ghostbuster Artie were the perfect sidekicks to Melody. The scoundrel of the piece in Leo Dark and his personal Fembots, being Melody’s ex, and competition in the ghost hunting world there was more than a bit of chemistry going on, on that front.
"Don’t tell me we have incompatible brains, because from the neck down we are best fucking friends."
Dastardly reporter, and paranormal disbeliever, Fletcher Gunn, who as it turns out isn’t as dastardly as one initially thinks, and is actually a bit of a dirty mouthed sweetie when riled up. The love-hate between the two of them was great and I am expecting things to heat up more as Kitty releases further books in the series.
"You’re tough as nails and I’m irritating as hell. I still think we should lay our hostilities aside for the evening and have wild sex, because I can still taste you on my lips and you’re delicious."
And I cannot, not mention Lestat the one eared pug, who pretty much stole the spotlight in every paragraph he was in!
"Your dog is humping my leg."
This is one of those stories that you go into not quite knowing what to fully expect. And the author keeps you on your toes all the way through it. I will reiterate I couldn’t put it down, there have been few books that have done this to me of late and it was a refreshing change to feel excitement at what I was reading.
I’m twenty-seven, single and so damn lonely that I’m slowly going crazy.
But for all the comedy and derring-do, there are some extremely poignant moments in this one as well, Kitty literally took me from laughing to crying in the matter of a paragraph or two, the story of the Scarborough brothers, and the house they are haunting is intrinsic to the whole plot but as discoveries start to be made in relation to their deaths and subsequent haunting of Scarborough House, Kitty managed to pull the darker aspect of this part of the plot through with the lightness of everything else that was happening around its telling.
I could rave about this book for ages, but I think the joy of this story is definitely reading and discovering how awesome it is yourself.
I cannot wait for Kitty to give us more stories from this series and as soon as possible please!
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
February 10, 2017
Kitty French has knocked it out of the park again. She has an absolute gift when it comes to creating quirky, witty, charming characters who fill the pages with their crazy, hilarious, heartwarming antics. And Melody Bittersweet has become one of my favourite people.
"...my family are officially bonkers."
Yes, Melody sees dead people. As do her mum and gran. Having recently hit a birthday milestone, she decides to take hold of her life and, with her BFF Marina, decides to branch out and go into business for herself. Ghostbusting.
"I’m twenty-seven, single and so damn lonely that I’m going slowly crazy."
And it's this decision that leads to fabulous escapades involving, the living, the dead, a one-eared pug, Babs the pink transit van, an egotistical ex-boyfriend and an insufferable non-believing and oh-so-sexy journalist. All without a proton pack or ghost trap in sight. Whilst it's a little lighter on the romance, I have no doubt that it's on the way in future outings as the groundwork has been set; Fletcher Gunn is charming with a bit of a mouth on him and he and Melody have a superb love-hate relationship.
Amongst all the hilarity and getting to know the characters is the suspense aspect which centralises around the three deceased, but ever-present Scarborough brothers, stuck in limbo in the family home, and all I'll say is grab the tissues because these guys bring the emotion.
"I’ve had enough. I’ve been too long on this earth, Melody."
I honestly could go on, but the upshot is,The Skeletons of Scarborough House (formerly published as Melody Bittersweet and the Girls' Ghostbusting Agency) is Kitty French doing what she's best at; giving her reader a character driven storyline, with outstanding humour, feeling and scope for so much more with people you would love in your life: dead, or alive. I absolutely can't wait to see what she treats us to next.
Copy received courtesy of Bookouture via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
"...my family are officially bonkers."
Yes, Melody sees dead people. As do her mum and gran. Having recently hit a birthday milestone, she decides to take hold of her life and, with her BFF Marina, decides to branch out and go into business for herself. Ghostbusting.
"I’m twenty-seven, single and so damn lonely that I’m going slowly crazy."
And it's this decision that leads to fabulous escapades involving, the living, the dead, a one-eared pug, Babs the pink transit van, an egotistical ex-boyfriend and an insufferable non-believing and oh-so-sexy journalist. All without a proton pack or ghost trap in sight. Whilst it's a little lighter on the romance, I have no doubt that it's on the way in future outings as the groundwork has been set; Fletcher Gunn is charming with a bit of a mouth on him and he and Melody have a superb love-hate relationship.
Amongst all the hilarity and getting to know the characters is the suspense aspect which centralises around the three deceased, but ever-present Scarborough brothers, stuck in limbo in the family home, and all I'll say is grab the tissues because these guys bring the emotion.
"I’ve had enough. I’ve been too long on this earth, Melody."
I honestly could go on, but the upshot is,The Skeletons of Scarborough House (formerly published as Melody Bittersweet and the Girls' Ghostbusting Agency) is Kitty French doing what she's best at; giving her reader a character driven storyline, with outstanding humour, feeling and scope for so much more with people you would love in your life: dead, or alive. I absolutely can't wait to see what she treats us to next.
Copy received courtesy of Bookouture via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
August 31, 2016
I don't think I've been so charmed by a paranormal book since I read The Sookie Stackhouse series by Charlaine Harris. Melody Bittersweet is a new favorite character of mine and I seriously hope that this is the first book in a series!
The book is hilarious, it's romantic, it's engrossing and I love Melody's snarky humor. (And, by God, I love Lestat, the dog). I even like Melody lusting after Fletch, and I'm usually the last people interested in reading books about people lusting after each other. But, the love-hate relationship between Fletch and Melody work like magic! And, let's not forget Artie the apprentice ghost hunter and Marina, her colleague and best friend. They brought so much to the story that I can't help feeling giddy just thinking about all the funny moments in the book from office meetings to trying to get rid of the ghost from Scarborough House.
Seriously, I hate writing 5-star reviews, because all I do is gush and I just can't help it. This book made me happy, it's a book for when you feel depressed or just down a bit. It was a great joy to read this book, and now I want a sequel! I'm bloody happy that I caved in and requested this book on NetGalley!
I want to thank Bookouture for providing me with a free copy for an honest review!
The book is hilarious, it's romantic, it's engrossing and I love Melody's snarky humor. (And, by God, I love Lestat, the dog). I even like Melody lusting after Fletch, and I'm usually the last people interested in reading books about people lusting after each other. But, the love-hate relationship between Fletch and Melody work like magic! And, let's not forget Artie the apprentice ghost hunter and Marina, her colleague and best friend. They brought so much to the story that I can't help feeling giddy just thinking about all the funny moments in the book from office meetings to trying to get rid of the ghost from Scarborough House.
Seriously, I hate writing 5-star reviews, because all I do is gush and I just can't help it. This book made me happy, it's a book for when you feel depressed or just down a bit. It was a great joy to read this book, and now I want a sequel! I'm bloody happy that I caved in and requested this book on NetGalley!
I want to thank Bookouture for providing me with a free copy for an honest review!
October 19, 2016
This book initially caught my attention with its fabulous front cover.
I’m so pleased I decided to give it a try, as it was such fun to read. This light-hearted story was just what I needed to sort me out after the tissue consuming monster of a tear-jerker I read just before it. Plus, it gets extra happy points for mentioning Robert Downey Jr. who I've absolutely adored since I was about 13.
Melody Bittersweet and The Girls' Ghostbusting Agency is witty, full of quirky characters, ghostly shenanigans and a bit of cheeky romance thrown in too. I could happily live inside this book.
I’m so pleased I decided to give it a try, as it was such fun to read. This light-hearted story was just what I needed to sort me out after the tissue consuming monster of a tear-jerker I read just before it. Plus, it gets extra happy points for mentioning Robert Downey Jr. who I've absolutely adored since I was about 13.
Melody Bittersweet and The Girls' Ghostbusting Agency is witty, full of quirky characters, ghostly shenanigans and a bit of cheeky romance thrown in too. I could happily live inside this book.
March 11, 2017
All of my reviews can be found on www.novelgossip.com
Melody is one of those characters that’s immediately likable, I don’t think I’ve taken to a heroine so quickly since Becky Bloomwood and Bridget Jones. She’s a 27 year old woman with a penchant for sugar and converse. Totally a woman after my own heart, and if that isn’t enough she can see dead people. Yes, just like The Sixth Sense, except less creepy and more spooktacular fun. Her family consists of her mom and grandma, Silvana and Dicey and they have the family gift, or curse as it sometimes is. These two meddlesome woman were a laugh and a half, the first scene they both appear in is memorable to say the least. I’m chuckling just thinking about it. Besides her family there’s her lifelong best friend Marina, a snarky, sexy Italian badass who starts the Girls Ghostbusting Agency with Melody. They hire Artie and bless him, he’s a doll. He’s an awkward guy, a loner who has never really belonged but he fits in great with the gal pals and begins to come out of his shell. Lastly, there’s Leo, Melody’s ex boyfriend who also has a gift and local reporter Fletch who thinks her and her family are a sham and scoffs at anything even hinting at the supernatural. I can’t forget to mention Lestat the fat, lazy pug Melody winds up with, he’s a riot and Babs the van they drive for work purposes. Yes, the van is a character on it’s own, think the Mystery Machine. This whole cast of characters are wildly entertaining and totally unforgettable.
This is has a historical cozy mystery vibe as the agencies first job is to clear the ghosts from Scarborough House. Melody finds three brothers who died in the early 1900’s until the 70’s and to say their relationships are complicated is an understatement. It sounds goofy, and it totally is but that’s part of the charm. I’m not usually a big fan of paranormal stuff in books but I swear French pulls it off perfectly and puts a refreshing twist on typical chick lit.
If I had to describe this book in one word it would be hilarious, it was so funny and had so much sass. Melody is so quirky and adorable and is the perfect character to lead such a whimsical new series. It’s a total escape from reality and immersing myself in Melody’s wacky world was the most fun I’ve had in awhile.
Melody is one of those characters that’s immediately likable, I don’t think I’ve taken to a heroine so quickly since Becky Bloomwood and Bridget Jones. She’s a 27 year old woman with a penchant for sugar and converse. Totally a woman after my own heart, and if that isn’t enough she can see dead people. Yes, just like The Sixth Sense, except less creepy and more spooktacular fun. Her family consists of her mom and grandma, Silvana and Dicey and they have the family gift, or curse as it sometimes is. These two meddlesome woman were a laugh and a half, the first scene they both appear in is memorable to say the least. I’m chuckling just thinking about it. Besides her family there’s her lifelong best friend Marina, a snarky, sexy Italian badass who starts the Girls Ghostbusting Agency with Melody. They hire Artie and bless him, he’s a doll. He’s an awkward guy, a loner who has never really belonged but he fits in great with the gal pals and begins to come out of his shell. Lastly, there’s Leo, Melody’s ex boyfriend who also has a gift and local reporter Fletch who thinks her and her family are a sham and scoffs at anything even hinting at the supernatural. I can’t forget to mention Lestat the fat, lazy pug Melody winds up with, he’s a riot and Babs the van they drive for work purposes. Yes, the van is a character on it’s own, think the Mystery Machine. This whole cast of characters are wildly entertaining and totally unforgettable.
This is has a historical cozy mystery vibe as the agencies first job is to clear the ghosts from Scarborough House. Melody finds three brothers who died in the early 1900’s until the 70’s and to say their relationships are complicated is an understatement. It sounds goofy, and it totally is but that’s part of the charm. I’m not usually a big fan of paranormal stuff in books but I swear French pulls it off perfectly and puts a refreshing twist on typical chick lit.
If I had to describe this book in one word it would be hilarious, it was so funny and had so much sass. Melody is so quirky and adorable and is the perfect character to lead such a whimsical new series. It’s a total escape from reality and immersing myself in Melody’s wacky world was the most fun I’ve had in awhile.
July 14, 2016
‘My name’s Melody Bittersweet, and I see dead people.’
Kitty French wrote something pretty special in Melody Bittersweet and The Girls’ Ghostbusting Agency. Quite the mouthful right?! Well, we haven’t laughed so much in a long while as we did in the story of the gorgeous and lovable ‘Bittersweet’. And this was only the first step in a journey we cannot wait to be a part of.
‘I’ve spent my entire adult life either trying to fit into the outside world like a square peg in a round hole,…and however hard I try, I’m never going to be a round peg.’
You know what, we think this is without question one of the best rom coms we’ve read this year. Why? Because it was quintessentially British, it had incredible heart, a fanciful story line and characters that won us over upon meeting them. Not a single character left us wanting, dead or alive, we felt the importance of every player as they scrambled to uncover a mystery of ghostly proportions. We felt like instant friends and wanted to grab a seat in Babs and join the crew.
‘I’m twenty-seven, single and so damn lonely that I’m going crazy.’
Melody is our kind of girl and we instantly fell in love with her quirky eccentric ghostly ways and felt an affinity with her sarcastic and sassy nature. She’s different yet in the same breath, she’s so like a girl next door. A beautifully and well written character who stole our hearts.
‘For Bittersweet women, love is big and sweeping, all-consuming and life-altering.’
Melody has reached an important stage in her life, she’s at an age that signifies a momentous moment in her family history and with her equally special and ghost seeing Mum and Gran, she’s desperate to create her own place in the world. Well as much as she’s able to anyway, what with continuous interferences from those she loves and those who just won’t leave her alone.
‘I’ve worked out my own style with scant regard for what’s in fashion. I’ve never been one of the popular girls or the sparkly girls and that never bothered me once, because all I needed to get through was black nail polish, Marina, and my gut instinct.’
A mystery unfolds in a haunted house that sees Melody, Marina, and Artie caught up in various hysterical shenanigans, an unsolved bloody murder and a race against the clock with a disgruntled now famous ex-boyfriend. It’s all very fast paced, yet brilliantly timed. Marina and Artie were fabulous character and only added to everything we loved.
“I knew your skin would feel like that,” he says. “Too soft for all your hard edges.” I frown. “I don’t have hard edges.” “Yes you do. You’re all sharp edges, sarcasm and trouble, but your skin isn’t playing games. It’s smooth and warm, and it likes me much better than the rest of you does.”
All the while we have a ghost wagon called Babs, and Babs says no. A greedy one-eared rowdy pug called Lestat and a devilishly handsome and cocky reporter called Fletch with whom there’s a simmering undeniable yet fiercely disputed romance happening. We’ll eagerly watch that space! Bring on the next book in this series we can’t wait….
“Bittersweet, your dog is humping my leg.”
‘Fucking Lestat! I look down and sure enough, there he is on the cobbles, merrily banging away at Fletch’s leg with his beady eyes rolled back in his flat face in pure delicious bliss.’
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July 15, 2016
‘I see dead people’ is a very well known line from a movie and is also Melody Bittersweet’s life in a nutshell. She can see and talk to ghosts. Her mother and grandmother can too. This may freak other people out but to them it is normal and not something that scares them at all. While Melody’s mother has made a business out of helping people make contact with their deceased loved ones, mainly to help give them closure or find missing items, Melody wants to do something more.
She sets up her own business, a ghost busting agency. Their main purpose is to help people who have ghosts ‘haunting’ them and basically get them to leave earth. What you may not know is that ghosts that lurk around houses are usually only here because there is something unresolved on earth for them. Melody’s job is to figure out what the reason is and this in turn will set them free to leave.
Her first case is a large stately home that is being sold for someone to develop into a nursing home. However, there are three resident ghosts there who have been stuck for a very long time and it’s up to Melody to dig through the family history to solve a murder mystery.
This all sounds very serious right? I guess it is but this story is filled with a lot of hilarity and plenty of laugh out loud moments. Melody's ex-boyfriend Leo is also trying to get to the bottom of this ghost mystery as he too can communicate with them and is her competition in the ghost busting industry. Then there is a local newspaper reporter that Melody has the hots for and shares a few steamy kisses with. The rest of her team are long time friends and her one eared pug dog Lestat.
This is like nothing I have ever read before but lots of fun and it was really refreshing to read something completely out of my usual reading genre.
She sets up her own business, a ghost busting agency. Their main purpose is to help people who have ghosts ‘haunting’ them and basically get them to leave earth. What you may not know is that ghosts that lurk around houses are usually only here because there is something unresolved on earth for them. Melody’s job is to figure out what the reason is and this in turn will set them free to leave.
Her first case is a large stately home that is being sold for someone to develop into a nursing home. However, there are three resident ghosts there who have been stuck for a very long time and it’s up to Melody to dig through the family history to solve a murder mystery.
This all sounds very serious right? I guess it is but this story is filled with a lot of hilarity and plenty of laugh out loud moments. Melody's ex-boyfriend Leo is also trying to get to the bottom of this ghost mystery as he too can communicate with them and is her competition in the ghost busting industry. Then there is a local newspaper reporter that Melody has the hots for and shares a few steamy kisses with. The rest of her team are long time friends and her one eared pug dog Lestat.
This is like nothing I have ever read before but lots of fun and it was really refreshing to read something completely out of my usual reading genre.
July 13, 2016
‘My name’s Melody Bittersweet, and I see dead people.’
Kitty French wrote something pretty special in Melody Bittersweet and The Girls’ Ghostbusting Agency. Quite the mouthful right?! Well, we haven’t laughed so much in a long while as we did in the story of the gorgeous and lovable ‘Bittersweet’. And this was only the first step in a journey we cannot wait to be a part of.
‘I’ve spent my entire adult life either trying to fit into the outside world like a square peg in a round hole,…and however hard I try, I’m never going to be a round peg.’
You know what, we think this is without question one of the best rom coms we’ve read this year. Why? Because it was quintessentially British, it had incredible heart, a fanciful story line and characters that won us over upon meeting them. Not a single character left us wanting, dead or alive, we felt the importance of every player as they scrambled to uncover a mystery of ghostly proportions. We felt like instant friends and wanted to grab a seat in Babs and join the crew.
‘I’m twenty-seven, single and so damn lonely that I’m going crazy.’
Melody is our kind of girl and we instantly fell in love with her quirky eccentric ghostly ways and felt an affinity with her sarcastic and sassy nature. She’s different yet in the same breath, she’s so like a girl next door. A beautifully and well written character who stole our hearts.
‘For Bittersweet women, love is big and sweeping, all-consuming and life-altering.’
Melody has reached an important stage in her life, she’s at an age that signifies a momentous moment in her family history and with her equally special and ghost seeing Mum and Gran, she’s desperate to create her own place in the world. Well as much as she’s able to anyway, what with continuous interferences from those she loves and those who just won’t leave her alone.
‘I’ve worked out my own style with scant regard for what’s in fashion. I’ve never been one of the popular girls or the sparkly girls and that never bothered me once, because all I needed to get through was black nail polish, Marina, and my gut instinct.’
A mystery unfolds in a haunted house that sees Melody, Marina, and Artie caught up in various hysterical shenanigans, an unsolved bloody murder and a race against the clock with a disgruntled now famous ex-boyfriend. It’s all very fast paced, yet brilliantly timed. Marina and Artie were fabulous character and only added to everything we loved.
“I knew your skin would feel like that,” he says. “Too soft for all your hard edges.” I frown. “I don’t have hard edges.” “Yes you do. You’re all sharp edges, sarcasm and trouble, but your skin isn’t playing games. It’s smooth and warm, and it likes me much better than the rest of you does.”
All the while we have a ghost wagon called Babs, and Babs says no. A greedy one-eared rowdy pug called Lestat and a devilishly handsome and cocky reporter called Fletch with whom there’s a simmering undeniable yet fiercely disputed romance happening. We’ll eagerly watch that space! Bring on the next book in this series we can’t wait….
“Bittersweet, your dog is humping my leg.”
‘Fucking Lestat! I look down and sure enough, there he is on the cobbles, merrily banging away at Fletch’s leg with his beady eyes rolled back in his flat face in pure delicious bliss.’
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August 9, 2016
4.5 stars!!
Fast, easy, entertaining read!!!
This book is about a girl who can talk to the dead. What kind of trouble can a girl get in to?
I love how I wanted to read more. It left me wanting. I need more Melanie!!! Please I need it now!!!
Fast, easy, entertaining read!!!
This book is about a girl who can talk to the dead. What kind of trouble can a girl get in to?
I love how I wanted to read more. It left me wanting. I need more Melanie!!! Please I need it now!!!
June 20, 2016
Wow! What a wonderful and very special book! I am bereft that I have now finished reading this and cannot wait for the next in the series. Peopled with colourful characters, and filled with laugh out loud moments, I could not put this wonderful book down. Loved Melody and Marina, Glenda and Babs. My favourites were Lestat, Artie and Dicey, and I wish I could have shared some of Nonna's wonderful food. I adored this quirky, unique tale. So looking forward to the next book.
March 23, 2017
After having read a few disappointing (to me) psychological thrillers in a row, I made a conscious decision to leave the genre behind for a bit and try something completely different and I somehow ended up with this book.
The Skeletons of Scarborough House is the first instalment of The Chapelwick Mysteries. Having seen many great reviews for the second book, once again Dee-logic dictated I start with the first one.
I had no idea what to expect since I can't remember ever having read something labeled "a cosy mystery" before. I was wary of all the laugh-out-loud comments I'd seen because I can name a number of things that were called "hilarious" that didn't even make my lips twitch. So imagine my surprise, when barely two pages in, I snorted quite unlady-like.
Melody sees dead people, as do her mother and grandmother. She starts a ghostbusting agency with her best friend. Soon they're joined by Art and the team is complete. Their very first case involves Scarborough House. Set to be sold, it's putting off potential buyers as it's haunted. It's up to Melanie to figure out why.
This book is filled to the brim with the most quirky characters I've ever met. The Bittersweet ladies are my kind of crazy and absolutely endearing. I doubt you'd get bored if you invited them to dinner. Even the dog is a little goofball.
Don't go thinking this is just some bit of fluff, to be dismissed off hand. Yes, it's funny. Laugh-out-loud funny sometimes. But it's also sad. The tale of the ghosts at Scarborough House was heartbreaking. Quite a feat to combine a healthy dose of humour with the darker aspect of a murder.
Once I picked this up, I couldn't put it down. It's quite a quick read and I'm so glad I could finish it in one sitting, snuggled under a blanket with a warm cup of tea while the rain kept coming down outside. Great plot, fabulous characters, brilliant and extremely funny! The next instalment of the series (Murder at Maplemead Castle) is already on my to-read list.
Also, as a side note, how adorable is that cover?!
The Skeletons of Scarborough House is the first instalment of The Chapelwick Mysteries. Having seen many great reviews for the second book, once again Dee-logic dictated I start with the first one.
I had no idea what to expect since I can't remember ever having read something labeled "a cosy mystery" before. I was wary of all the laugh-out-loud comments I'd seen because I can name a number of things that were called "hilarious" that didn't even make my lips twitch. So imagine my surprise, when barely two pages in, I snorted quite unlady-like.
Melody sees dead people, as do her mother and grandmother. She starts a ghostbusting agency with her best friend. Soon they're joined by Art and the team is complete. Their very first case involves Scarborough House. Set to be sold, it's putting off potential buyers as it's haunted. It's up to Melanie to figure out why.
This book is filled to the brim with the most quirky characters I've ever met. The Bittersweet ladies are my kind of crazy and absolutely endearing. I doubt you'd get bored if you invited them to dinner. Even the dog is a little goofball.
Don't go thinking this is just some bit of fluff, to be dismissed off hand. Yes, it's funny. Laugh-out-loud funny sometimes. But it's also sad. The tale of the ghosts at Scarborough House was heartbreaking. Quite a feat to combine a healthy dose of humour with the darker aspect of a murder.
Once I picked this up, I couldn't put it down. It's quite a quick read and I'm so glad I could finish it in one sitting, snuggled under a blanket with a warm cup of tea while the rain kept coming down outside. Great plot, fabulous characters, brilliant and extremely funny! The next instalment of the series (Murder at Maplemead Castle) is already on my to-read list.
Also, as a side note, how adorable is that cover?!
May 1, 2017
"The Skeletons of Scarborough House" is a wonderful start to a new cozy mystery series by Kitty French. My friend Stormi recommended I pick it up and I couldn't wait to start it once I learned of the cute pug named Lestat. Melody Bittersweet, her mother and her grandmother can all see and communicate with ghosts. Melody does not want to follow in the Bittersweet family business and pass on ghostly messages to those left behind so she decides to start a ghostbusting agency. She hires her best friend Marina and a newcomer, Artie, to be her assistants and the fun ensues.
Melody is snarky and quirky and funny - all the things I was desperately in need of at the time of reading. She is hired to get rid of the ghosts at Scarborough House, a local historical home, so the owner has hopes of selling it. However, the owner has also hired Melody's ex, Leo Dark, who can also communicate with ghosts, to do the same thing and the winner gets all the payout. There are three brothers currently haunting Scarborough house and Melody must uncover what is keeping these astral beings tied to the family homestead.
French weaves a very interesting mystery tale effortlessly with a wonderful cast of zany characters. Melody is 95% over Leo Dark, especially when she realizes she has "the hots" for Fletch, the skeptical journalist, who has spent his entire career trying to prove the Bittersweets are frauds. In fact, Lestat, the adorable yet obnoxious pug, enters the scene because in a fit of anger with Fletch, Melody tells him she has a dog, when she doesn't. Therefore, she rescues Lestat from a local shelter and is soon convinced he is the embodiment of an old gangster out to get her and further complicate her life. All this being said, my favorite character hands down, besides Lestat, has to be Artie. Melody is convinced to hire Artie after a visit from Artie's deceased father asking that she help provide his son with a purpose in life. Artie starts the book with low self esteem but through the course of the book, grows and evolves into a lovable character who is best compared to Shaggy from Scooby-Doo.
If you haven't already figured it out, there is a whole cast of nutty and offbeat characters in "The Skeletons of Scarborough House." The mystery is exciting and I was pleased with the ending of the book. If you don't like love triangles or romantic interests in books, then this one might annoy you somewhat but basically it's not overdone and Melody really is trying to move on from Leo. Plus she and Fletch as such an unlikely couple that one can't help but cheer them on. Of course, it remains to be seen if he and Melody will get past their differences. I'm anxiously wanting to read book two and can see it being done sooner rather than later.
Melody is snarky and quirky and funny - all the things I was desperately in need of at the time of reading. She is hired to get rid of the ghosts at Scarborough House, a local historical home, so the owner has hopes of selling it. However, the owner has also hired Melody's ex, Leo Dark, who can also communicate with ghosts, to do the same thing and the winner gets all the payout. There are three brothers currently haunting Scarborough house and Melody must uncover what is keeping these astral beings tied to the family homestead.
French weaves a very interesting mystery tale effortlessly with a wonderful cast of zany characters. Melody is 95% over Leo Dark, especially when she realizes she has "the hots" for Fletch, the skeptical journalist, who has spent his entire career trying to prove the Bittersweets are frauds. In fact, Lestat, the adorable yet obnoxious pug, enters the scene because in a fit of anger with Fletch, Melody tells him she has a dog, when she doesn't. Therefore, she rescues Lestat from a local shelter and is soon convinced he is the embodiment of an old gangster out to get her and further complicate her life. All this being said, my favorite character hands down, besides Lestat, has to be Artie. Melody is convinced to hire Artie after a visit from Artie's deceased father asking that she help provide his son with a purpose in life. Artie starts the book with low self esteem but through the course of the book, grows and evolves into a lovable character who is best compared to Shaggy from Scooby-Doo.
If you haven't already figured it out, there is a whole cast of nutty and offbeat characters in "The Skeletons of Scarborough House." The mystery is exciting and I was pleased with the ending of the book. If you don't like love triangles or romantic interests in books, then this one might annoy you somewhat but basically it's not overdone and Melody really is trying to move on from Leo. Plus she and Fletch as such an unlikely couple that one can't help but cheer them on. Of course, it remains to be seen if he and Melody will get past their differences. I'm anxiously wanting to read book two and can see it being done sooner rather than later.
June 27, 2016
This book was such a good,light hearted and entertaining read.
I've enjoyed it.I loved all the characters,they were hilarious and their bantering are never predictable or boring...I've particularly appreciated Melody and her arch-enemy Fletch's spicy and intriguing relationship...I really hope in the next book there will be more romance for our crazy lovely heroine.
This is the first book I read from this author but I'm already curious to read more about Melody's adventures.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2016
Huge thank you to Bookouture for letting me read an early copy of the book, despite my pestering and whinging like a much younger person (far too impatient to wait).
Already on Facebook and Twitter, there have been nothing but good things said about this book, I was extremely hopeful that it would live up to the excitement when I read it for myself.
Meet Melody Bittersweet. She isn’t what you would class as your ‘average’ twenty-something female. Well, kind of. I mean, she has a sugar addiction and she’s a single woman who has dreams about Robert Downey Jr. Isn’t that pretty much the norm? No? Oh…anywayyyyyy!
The only difference between Melody and myself(I jest) is that she can see dead people, aka ghosts, and she can talk to them. Melody feels she has reached an age where she needs to be more of a grown-up; so she buys a dog called Parsnip…sorry…Lestat! She also decides to create her own Ghostbusting Agency with her best friend. Little does Melody know, her new agency isn’t going to be all overalls and ghost vacuums. There is more to things that meets the eye…literally, but can Melody figure out the answers she needs? Or will she be fighting with her dog for sugary treats?
I am actually struggling to write this review because Kitty French’s book is the type of book that I just want to tell you EVERYTHING about, and I can’t. Well I could, but that would ruin it for you, and you have to read this book. You just have to.
As I said above, I was rather impatient after I saw the cover of the book as I wanted to read it straight away. Poor Kim had to cope with me like an excitable puppy!
Melody Bittersweet and The Girls Ghostbusting Agency had me laughing so hard I went from human to snorting pig to a seal then a banshee within seconds. I am not over exaggerating either, my laugh goes through levels when I find things absolutely hilarious. Right from the start of the book through to the end, is full of innuendos, smut, sarcasm and pure hilarity. I have not laughed like that in a very, very long time.
I adored the modern references to the celebrity world and how different Melody and her best friend are. To be honest, judging the book by the title alone, you just know it’s not going to be a completely serious book! Reading about Melody’s adventures was like opening a treasure chest. Each and every page was full of something special. Now that could be anything from a characters actions, or a situation Melody found herself in. It’s a book that just keeps giving, right until the very end. A book that will make tears roll down your cheeks due to constant laughter. A book that is full of food that will make you extremely hungry, I totally need a cannoli fyi!
One thing I wasn’t expecting to happen whilst reading this book, was for me to start crying. For approximately 1 minute (dependant on your reading speed), the book took a little serious turn. I felt that that particular minute was packed full of raw emotion. I genuinely wasn’t expecting it to catch me like it did, maybe I got very involved with the storyline just like the characters. Not complaining though!
Melody Bittersweet and The Girls Ghostbusting Agency did not disappoint one bit, I was extremely gutted that it had to end. If Melody needs another girl for her agency, sign me up! If I could sum up the story in just one word, I would say ‘unforgettable’. If I could read it for the first time, every time, I would. Kitty French has written such a wonderful and clever book with so much imagination throughout the words. Thank you Kitty for making me laugh so hard. You have made me find my laugh deep within in a time where I want to do anything but laugh.
Sheer brilliance! Are you wondering whether you should read it or not? The magic 8 ball says….yes.
Already on Facebook and Twitter, there have been nothing but good things said about this book, I was extremely hopeful that it would live up to the excitement when I read it for myself.
Meet Melody Bittersweet. She isn’t what you would class as your ‘average’ twenty-something female. Well, kind of. I mean, she has a sugar addiction and she’s a single woman who has dreams about Robert Downey Jr. Isn’t that pretty much the norm? No? Oh…anywayyyyyy!
The only difference between Melody and myself(I jest) is that she can see dead people, aka ghosts, and she can talk to them. Melody feels she has reached an age where she needs to be more of a grown-up; so she buys a dog called Parsnip…sorry…Lestat! She also decides to create her own Ghostbusting Agency with her best friend. Little does Melody know, her new agency isn’t going to be all overalls and ghost vacuums. There is more to things that meets the eye…literally, but can Melody figure out the answers she needs? Or will she be fighting with her dog for sugary treats?
I am actually struggling to write this review because Kitty French’s book is the type of book that I just want to tell you EVERYTHING about, and I can’t. Well I could, but that would ruin it for you, and you have to read this book. You just have to.
As I said above, I was rather impatient after I saw the cover of the book as I wanted to read it straight away. Poor Kim had to cope with me like an excitable puppy!
Melody Bittersweet and The Girls Ghostbusting Agency had me laughing so hard I went from human to snorting pig to a seal then a banshee within seconds. I am not over exaggerating either, my laugh goes through levels when I find things absolutely hilarious. Right from the start of the book through to the end, is full of innuendos, smut, sarcasm and pure hilarity. I have not laughed like that in a very, very long time.
I adored the modern references to the celebrity world and how different Melody and her best friend are. To be honest, judging the book by the title alone, you just know it’s not going to be a completely serious book! Reading about Melody’s adventures was like opening a treasure chest. Each and every page was full of something special. Now that could be anything from a characters actions, or a situation Melody found herself in. It’s a book that just keeps giving, right until the very end. A book that will make tears roll down your cheeks due to constant laughter. A book that is full of food that will make you extremely hungry, I totally need a cannoli fyi!
One thing I wasn’t expecting to happen whilst reading this book, was for me to start crying. For approximately 1 minute (dependant on your reading speed), the book took a little serious turn. I felt that that particular minute was packed full of raw emotion. I genuinely wasn’t expecting it to catch me like it did, maybe I got very involved with the storyline just like the characters. Not complaining though!
Melody Bittersweet and The Girls Ghostbusting Agency did not disappoint one bit, I was extremely gutted that it had to end. If Melody needs another girl for her agency, sign me up! If I could sum up the story in just one word, I would say ‘unforgettable’. If I could read it for the first time, every time, I would. Kitty French has written such a wonderful and clever book with so much imagination throughout the words. Thank you Kitty for making me laugh so hard. You have made me find my laugh deep within in a time where I want to do anything but laugh.
Sheer brilliance! Are you wondering whether you should read it or not? The magic 8 ball says….yes.
July 11, 2016
Melody Bittersweet and the Girl's Ghostbusting Agency is one of those books I feel like I've read before - don't ask me when, or what it was, because I've got no idea, but there's some kind of familiarity about this book that gave me a very weird sense of deja vu. It's actually one of my favourite new books - there's just something about this book that gives it so much heart, so much joy, so much laughter, and warmth. It's funny one minute, and has you tearing up the next, and I can't wait for Melody Bittersweet #2, because this is a series that can just run, and run, I can see it now. Melody Bittersweet and her co-cast will never get old.
I wasn't sure at first how the book would go - would there be multiple ghosts being busted? Would it be like Ghostbusters, not that I've SEEN ghostbusters, but I know they were funky suits and have hoovers. But it seems to be one-case-per-book format, which is actually pretty amazing, because I actually loved the Scarboroughs. Actually, that's a lie, I loved Douglas and Isaac. Lloyd was a jerk. A grade-A jerk. But their story was intriguing, and Melody tries to find out who actually killed Douglas - was it Isaac, as everyone believed, or was it Douglas's twin Lloyd? It's actually a really sad story and as it all came out at the end, I did find myself becoming quite teary-eyed, because, like Melody, I had become attached to these charming, wise-cracking ghosts.
I also absolutely loved Melody, Artie and Marina. They make the most amazing ghostbusting team, you've got no idea. Melody is just awesome full stop, the way she's not afraid of anything (and when you can see dead people you kinda wouldn't be afraid, ever, would you?) and I love how she and Marina are the two tightest people you will ever meet, they're so close, like sisters, and they both support each other and it's amazing. But Artie! OH MY GOD, ARTIE. He was so sweet! So lovely. And call me crazy, but I kinda saw some sparks between Artie and Marina, which would be INSANE. But I'm calling it. I'M CALLING IT. MARTIE IS A GO. (Or maybe it's just in my head.) I loved the team and Melody's mum and Grandma (her Grandma in particular was HILARIOUS).
Now there's a bit of a love triangle - I saw a bit, because Leo Dark is no match for Fletch. I'm sorry, but he couldn't hold a candle to Fletch, and for me Melody/Fletch is the way Kitty French has to go. Leo had his shot, he hurt Melody, and he can never be allowed back in her heart again, do you hear me? Plus he's an idiot. He's an IDIOT. Fletch is not, Fletch is awesome. And his and Melody's chemistry is off the freaking charts. I mean, Melody went out and bought a DOG because that's what she told Fletch she'd done, who does that?!??!! But that was amazing, because Lestat is amazing (not Parsnip, although that, too, was hilarious).
Melody Bittersweet and the Girl's Ghostbusting Agency had it all. I just knew right from the off that this was the book for me, that I would absolutely love this book, and I did. I loved it all. The characters, the plot, the romance/sparks, the dog, the ghosts. There was not a bad thing in this book, except the Fembots, who needed a slap and Lloyd Scarborough who needed a punch. This was a genuinely brilliant read - funny, flirty, emotional, heart-warming, all the superlatives you can think of should be levied at this book because it was amazing. But, there's only one teensy-tiny problem: I need book two now, Kitty French. Now.
I wasn't sure at first how the book would go - would there be multiple ghosts being busted? Would it be like Ghostbusters, not that I've SEEN ghostbusters, but I know they were funky suits and have hoovers. But it seems to be one-case-per-book format, which is actually pretty amazing, because I actually loved the Scarboroughs. Actually, that's a lie, I loved Douglas and Isaac. Lloyd was a jerk. A grade-A jerk. But their story was intriguing, and Melody tries to find out who actually killed Douglas - was it Isaac, as everyone believed, or was it Douglas's twin Lloyd? It's actually a really sad story and as it all came out at the end, I did find myself becoming quite teary-eyed, because, like Melody, I had become attached to these charming, wise-cracking ghosts.
I also absolutely loved Melody, Artie and Marina. They make the most amazing ghostbusting team, you've got no idea. Melody is just awesome full stop, the way she's not afraid of anything (and when you can see dead people you kinda wouldn't be afraid, ever, would you?) and I love how she and Marina are the two tightest people you will ever meet, they're so close, like sisters, and they both support each other and it's amazing. But Artie! OH MY GOD, ARTIE. He was so sweet! So lovely. And call me crazy, but I kinda saw some sparks between Artie and Marina, which would be INSANE. But I'm calling it. I'M CALLING IT. MARTIE IS A GO. (Or maybe it's just in my head.) I loved the team and Melody's mum and Grandma (her Grandma in particular was HILARIOUS).
Now there's a bit of a love triangle - I saw a bit, because Leo Dark is no match for Fletch. I'm sorry, but he couldn't hold a candle to Fletch, and for me Melody/Fletch is the way Kitty French has to go. Leo had his shot, he hurt Melody, and he can never be allowed back in her heart again, do you hear me? Plus he's an idiot. He's an IDIOT. Fletch is not, Fletch is awesome. And his and Melody's chemistry is off the freaking charts. I mean, Melody went out and bought a DOG because that's what she told Fletch she'd done, who does that?!??!! But that was amazing, because Lestat is amazing (not Parsnip, although that, too, was hilarious).
Melody Bittersweet and the Girl's Ghostbusting Agency had it all. I just knew right from the off that this was the book for me, that I would absolutely love this book, and I did. I loved it all. The characters, the plot, the romance/sparks, the dog, the ghosts. There was not a bad thing in this book, except the Fembots, who needed a slap and Lloyd Scarborough who needed a punch. This was a genuinely brilliant read - funny, flirty, emotional, heart-warming, all the superlatives you can think of should be levied at this book because it was amazing. But, there's only one teensy-tiny problem: I need book two now, Kitty French. Now.
July 31, 2016
Melody Bittersweet And The Girls' Ghostbusting Agency was one heck of a surprise gem. It was such a feel good book, full of humour and fun. There was no angst or grit, just a loveable cast of characters, a fantastic plotline, and wonderful and witty narration and dialogue. It really was the perfect read.
I took a chance on this one; it's not something I would usually read, but the description had me intrigued enough to give it a go, and I am so glad that I did!! I adore each and every one of the characters in this book, from Melody and her team of rooky ghostbusters (where do I sign up??), to her kooky family of ghost-whisperers (adopt me??), to Leo and Fletch (swoooon), to Lestat the one-eared Pug (who can hear perfectly well), and finally, to the ghosts of Scarborough House. They each were a fantastic addition to the story.
This isn't your typical Paranormal book. It was a comedy filled with lots of laughs and good times, all while the fun-loving main character and her friends try to solve an age-old murder to finally free a family of ghosts from their home. As I've mentioned a few times now, this book was hilarious, but for a few chapters towards the end, it was surprisingly emotional, even going so far as managing to pull a few pesky tears from my eyes, and I am *not* a crier!
Without a doubt, I would recommend this book, and I cannot wait to catch up with Melody and the gang for her next adventure which is due out in October.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
.
I took a chance on this one; it's not something I would usually read, but the description had me intrigued enough to give it a go, and I am so glad that I did!! I adore each and every one of the characters in this book, from Melody and her team of rooky ghostbusters (where do I sign up??), to her kooky family of ghost-whisperers (adopt me??), to Leo and Fletch (swoooon), to Lestat the one-eared Pug (who can hear perfectly well), and finally, to the ghosts of Scarborough House. They each were a fantastic addition to the story.
This isn't your typical Paranormal book. It was a comedy filled with lots of laughs and good times, all while the fun-loving main character and her friends try to solve an age-old murder to finally free a family of ghosts from their home. As I've mentioned a few times now, this book was hilarious, but for a few chapters towards the end, it was surprisingly emotional, even going so far as managing to pull a few pesky tears from my eyes, and I am *not* a crier!
Without a doubt, I would recommend this book, and I cannot wait to catch up with Melody and the gang for her next adventure which is due out in October.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
.
June 8, 2017
Melody can see and talk to ghosts - so can her family (grandmother and mother.) They've been doing it for generations - to help the bereaved and communicate between family and their departed. Melody starts her own business to help the departed resolve issues and move on. Her ex (can see ghosts too but not as good as Melody) competes in a high profile TV show and a hot looking reporter thinks Melody and her entire family are cons.
In this book, Melody and her friends try to solve a long ago murder so that three brothers can move on and the current owner of an old Victorian home can sell it. Also, it seems that the series is set up for a "love triangle" of sorts between Melody, Leo Dark (her TV show ex), and Fletcher Gunn (hot looking reporter.) Melody has a few unresolved feelings for Leo and an attraction to Fletcher. I am team Fletch at this point (although I could change my mind if things pan out.) Leo let his need for fame and his ego get in the way and just up and left Melody one day for the glitz and lights of TV.
A light, enjoyable, sometimes humorous and sometimes poignant read. I do want to read the next one. 3.5 stars.
In this book, Melody and her friends try to solve a long ago murder so that three brothers can move on and the current owner of an old Victorian home can sell it. Also, it seems that the series is set up for a "love triangle" of sorts between Melody, Leo Dark (her TV show ex), and Fletcher Gunn (hot looking reporter.) Melody has a few unresolved feelings for Leo and an attraction to Fletcher. I am team Fletch at this point (although I could change my mind if things pan out.) Leo let his need for fame and his ego get in the way and just up and left Melody one day for the glitz and lights of TV.
A light, enjoyable, sometimes humorous and sometimes poignant read. I do want to read the next one. 3.5 stars.
July 28, 2016
Un très bon moment avec ce livre qui s'améliore au fil des pages.
C'est drôle, c'est couinant, c'est hyper original et les personnages sont géniaux. Hauts en couleur, sarcastiques, drôles... tout ce qui me plait.
L'intrigue avec les fantômes étaient géniale aussi, bien ficelée et prenante.
Seul bémol : le pseudo triangle amoureux !
Elle a pas intérêt à se remettre avec Léo.
Un très bon moment :)
C'est drôle, c'est couinant, c'est hyper original et les personnages sont géniaux. Hauts en couleur, sarcastiques, drôles... tout ce qui me plait.
L'intrigue avec les fantômes étaient géniale aussi, bien ficelée et prenante.
Seul bémol : le pseudo triangle amoureux !
Elle a pas intérêt à se remettre avec Léo.
Un très bon moment :)
May 7, 2025
It was totally inoffensive and palatable.
Easy read, nice cleanser after a few heavy hitters - although I will say the FMC is a little ‘who said, I can’t wear my converse, with my dress.’
I expect spice in upcoming books.
Easy read, nice cleanser after a few heavy hitters - although I will say the FMC is a little ‘who said, I can’t wear my converse, with my dress.’
I expect spice in upcoming books.
July 14, 2016
Originally posted on This Chick Reads
*Copy provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
'Melody Bittersweet and The Girls' Ghostbusting Agency' is the first book by Kitty French (or Kat French) I've read but it certainly won't be my last one. After hearing fantastic comments about Kat's books, I've grabbed a copy of 'The Piano Man' however I still haven't got round to reading it. I've heard Kitty aka Kat writes exceptionally sexy, breath taking romance stories and I guess I've expected the same for this one.
But boy, this book is so different to anything I've read and nothing like I've expected it to be. But don't get me wrong, despite being caught in surprise, I was totally entertained and found this book so fun. I have to admit, I'm not that keen on long titles and this one is super long in my opinion, and though I'm not too crazy about anything paranormal either, I approached it with an open mind. I'm glad I did because it's super fun and I devoured it in just a couple of hours.
As the title suggest, the story is centered around Melody Bittersweet, who's not your every day girl. Like the rest of the women in her family, she can see dead people. At the age of 27, she wakes up and decides it's time to change her life, she'll open a ghostbusting agency helping ghost crossover after finishing their business here on earth. She's got her life long friend, Marina by her side, the new trainee Artie and the most efficient secretary, Glenda. It's not like Melody knows what she's doing, however she's pretty sure she can help these ghost, most of them angry and bitter go to where they belong.
At around 20% of the book I started questioning myself, should I continue to read this book? It didn't seem like anything made sense and definitely didn't seem like my kind of read. However, I'm so so glad I persevered because it's then that things start to get really fun. Melody and her quirky bunch are starting to work on a rather mysterious case which involves three ghosts (brothers), Douglas, Lloyd and Isaac. Douglas was killed years ago and Isaac, the oldest brother was blamed for his murder. He wasn't convicted however everyone in their family blamed him for his youngest brother death. But what is Lloyd (Douglas' twin) hiding and could he be in any way connected to the murder? There's gotta be a reason why these three ghosts are trapped in their family house, there's gotta be some unfinished business. Does Melody and her team have what it takes to solve a murder case from century ago?
Well, one thing is for sure, Melody is the most crazy, fun, funny heroine you've read about. She's kind of a freak, but the good kind, aware she simply doesn't fit in. But she's OK with this, she's got her friend, Marina by her side to feel less awkward. There's a bit of a romance and a very interesting love triangle too. Leo Dark is Melody's ex and her business rival. He's sexy, bit arrogant and can also see dead people. Fletch is a reporter, and there's a strong chemistry between him and Melody. I have to say, I was totally entertained reading their dialogues and wondering who will Melody pick.
Overall, this was a really interesting and super fun read. I'm not the biggest fan of paranormal, but found the mystery part cleverly written and kept me glued to its pages. This book really was stepping out of my comfort zone but I'm so glad I've read it. If you're a fan of funny cozy mysteries with a paranormal element, then this is definitely the book for you. Interesting and fresh concept and fantastic cast of characters, Melody Bittersweet is definitely a series I'm going to continue following.
July 10, 2016
Melody Bittersweet and the Girls Ghostbusting Agency was an absolute delight from the fantastic cover to the end of the book.
Hilariously funny, I read some of this on a train journey and got some funny looks off other passengers when I could not help but giggle out loud. Melody Bittersweet has all of the right ingredients for a great read - fantastic characters, great setting, wicked wit and a mystery. I found the book totally engaging from the very beginning.
Melody is a psychic who is looking to kick-start her life following her twenty-seventh birthday by setting up The Girls Ghostbusting Agency with her best friend, Marina, and Artie, who gets a job with them through unusual circumstances. Love is also something Melody hopes to find, but finding the right man who understands her ‘gift’ is not easy. I adored Melody and she is definitely someone you would want to hang out with. Kitty has done a great job of making Melody, her friends and family easy to relate to (despite psychic powers!) and created down to earth, funny, extremely likeable characters. Lestat, the one-eared pug is brilliant!
The fact that this book also has a mystery that needs to be solved is another great plus. Yes, the book has what you would expect from what I guess is chick lit, but the supernatural element makes it totally unique and more enjoyable in my opinion.
I read this book during a difficult time and it was exactly what I needed to cheer me up and it provided some much needed escapism. You cannot help but get drawn into Melody’s world and I loved reading about the antics she and her friends got up to. If you want a book that takes you away from it all, check this one out. There isn’t anything about this book that I did not like and all there is left to say is “Hurry up with the second Melody book Kitty!”
Thank you to Kitty French, Bookouture and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Hilariously funny, I read some of this on a train journey and got some funny looks off other passengers when I could not help but giggle out loud. Melody Bittersweet has all of the right ingredients for a great read - fantastic characters, great setting, wicked wit and a mystery. I found the book totally engaging from the very beginning.
Melody is a psychic who is looking to kick-start her life following her twenty-seventh birthday by setting up The Girls Ghostbusting Agency with her best friend, Marina, and Artie, who gets a job with them through unusual circumstances. Love is also something Melody hopes to find, but finding the right man who understands her ‘gift’ is not easy. I adored Melody and she is definitely someone you would want to hang out with. Kitty has done a great job of making Melody, her friends and family easy to relate to (despite psychic powers!) and created down to earth, funny, extremely likeable characters. Lestat, the one-eared pug is brilliant!
The fact that this book also has a mystery that needs to be solved is another great plus. Yes, the book has what you would expect from what I guess is chick lit, but the supernatural element makes it totally unique and more enjoyable in my opinion.
I read this book during a difficult time and it was exactly what I needed to cheer me up and it provided some much needed escapism. You cannot help but get drawn into Melody’s world and I loved reading about the antics she and her friends got up to. If you want a book that takes you away from it all, check this one out. There isn’t anything about this book that I did not like and all there is left to say is “Hurry up with the second Melody book Kitty!”
Thank you to Kitty French, Bookouture and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 17, 2016
Well the blurb for this novel claims it is “An absolutely hilarious, totally entertaining, spookily sexy read that you won't be able to put down!” - and I totally agree! There are just so many laugh out loud moments as twenty seven year old Melody endeavours to set up her own business as a ghostbuster! She does have a serious advantage in that she can see and communicate with dead people - a good job her best friend and side kick has grown up with her and doesn’t think it strange! Just wait till you discover how she comes to employ Little Art and then goes on to try to solve why the ghosts of three brothers are haunting Scarborough House and gets roped into trying to solve a murder that happened about a hundred years ago.
This is a great story to relax with, highly entertaining, funny and totally different. It has great characters, hints at potential romance and is intertwined with a mystery to be solved and plenty of humorous interactions. It is the start to a new series and it is certainly a series I’ll be looking out for in future.
Many thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for gifting me an ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
This is a great story to relax with, highly entertaining, funny and totally different. It has great characters, hints at potential romance and is intertwined with a mystery to be solved and plenty of humorous interactions. It is the start to a new series and it is certainly a series I’ll be looking out for in future.
Many thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for gifting me an ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
August 15, 2017
*I've got this book from NetGalley in exchange of an honest review*
I won't wrap my words in to a cotton and will say straightly - I didn't like this book....like at all...
The story was lacking development from the beginning of the book and the writing style was sloppy and didn't captivated my attention. I was hoping that all of a sudden the story will get better and I will get into it, but it just went down the hill. In few words everything that happened in this book was all over the place
The main character Melody was annoying and acted like a child even though she was 27 year old woman. The company, that she tried to build with her best friend reminded me of a kindergarten. If for some reason I would have to deal with the agency like this, I would run screaming in the opposite direction.
I know it is a comedy or at least the author tried to write it like a comedy, but it wasn't funny for me at all.
Do not recommend.
I won't wrap my words in to a cotton and will say straightly - I didn't like this book....like at all...
The story was lacking development from the beginning of the book and the writing style was sloppy and didn't captivated my attention. I was hoping that all of a sudden the story will get better and I will get into it, but it just went down the hill. In few words everything that happened in this book was all over the place
The main character Melody was annoying and acted like a child even though she was 27 year old woman. The company, that she tried to build with her best friend reminded me of a kindergarten. If for some reason I would have to deal with the agency like this, I would run screaming in the opposite direction.
I know it is a comedy or at least the author tried to write it like a comedy, but it wasn't funny for me at all.
Do not recommend.
June 14, 2016
Highly Imaginative, entertaining, and down-right funny!
I have to admit I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started this novel, but boy was I pleasantly surprised.
This story has an extraordinary cast of characters that are lovable and unique, from the eccentric, quirky Melody Bittersweet, right down to Babs, the vintage company van and Lestat, the one-eared pug.
The writing is straightforward and smooth. And the plot is jam-packed full of oddball situations, witty banter, a dash of romance, and a century-old mystery.
This novel really is a hoot from start to finish. And I can’t wait to read the next book in the series to find out what kind of hijinks, The Girls’ Ghostbusting Agency, gets up to next.
Thank you to NetGalley, especially Bookouture, for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This review can also be found at www.whatsbetterthanbooks.com
I have to admit I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started this novel, but boy was I pleasantly surprised.
This story has an extraordinary cast of characters that are lovable and unique, from the eccentric, quirky Melody Bittersweet, right down to Babs, the vintage company van and Lestat, the one-eared pug.
The writing is straightforward and smooth. And the plot is jam-packed full of oddball situations, witty banter, a dash of romance, and a century-old mystery.
This novel really is a hoot from start to finish. And I can’t wait to read the next book in the series to find out what kind of hijinks, The Girls’ Ghostbusting Agency, gets up to next.
Thank you to NetGalley, especially Bookouture, for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This review can also be found at www.whatsbetterthanbooks.com
February 14, 2017
4,5 !
Vivement la suite !
My Review
It was awesome !
I loved this book, the characters, the background and all the references.
Melody is 27 years old and wants to change something in her life, so she decides to open her own ghost busting agency. Because Melody is different.
This is how it all starts. With the help of Artie and her bff Marina, Melody gets into action in the Scaborough mansion that can’t be sold because of the ghosts.
It is funny and it makes you swoon. The story and the mystery get the job done, a real page turner. So good ! I loved the relationship between Melody & Marina, the sarcastic lines and their deep friendship. Artie is a fun and touching guy.
Can’t wait to read the next book !
Vivement la suite !
My Review
It was awesome !
I loved this book, the characters, the background and all the references.
Melody is 27 years old and wants to change something in her life, so she decides to open her own ghost busting agency. Because Melody is different.
This is how it all starts. With the help of Artie and her bff Marina, Melody gets into action in the Scaborough mansion that can’t be sold because of the ghosts.
It is funny and it makes you swoon. The story and the mystery get the job done, a real page turner. So good ! I loved the relationship between Melody & Marina, the sarcastic lines and their deep friendship. Artie is a fun and touching guy.
Can’t wait to read the next book !
July 18, 2016
At a time where girl ghostbusters are a popular topic it's fun to read a book about a quirky twenty seven year old woman setting up her own agency. Her name is Melody Bittersweet and like both her mother and nan, she can see and talk to dead people.
Melody has decided to go her own way leaving the family business of Blithe Spirits with her friend Marina and new protege Artie they tackle their first case of ghostbusting. It's at Scarborough house and the owner needs the spirits to move on as he wants to sell the house he inherited.
Easy job you think? Well Melody first has to beat her old love Leo Dark to the job which isn't easy as he is now a celebrated TV clairvoyant. Add in Fletcher Gunn a journalist who just loves getting under her skin and an old murder mystery and you have a really good start to hopefully a new book series.
Melody has decided to go her own way leaving the family business of Blithe Spirits with her friend Marina and new protege Artie they tackle their first case of ghostbusting. It's at Scarborough house and the owner needs the spirits to move on as he wants to sell the house he inherited.
Easy job you think? Well Melody first has to beat her old love Leo Dark to the job which isn't easy as he is now a celebrated TV clairvoyant. Add in Fletcher Gunn a journalist who just loves getting under her skin and an old murder mystery and you have a really good start to hopefully a new book series.
June 16, 2016
I received this as an arc from net galley in exchange for an honest review. She's single, she's addicted to sugar and super heroes, her family are officially bonkers and - she sees dead people. Is it any wonder no - one's swiping right a hinder? Very good read. Lovely feel good read. With a few giggles here and there. Devoured in less than 24 hours. This is a must read and I would highly recommend this book. Definitely worth more than 5 *.
August 10, 2018
The Skeletons of Scarborough House a.k.a. Melody Bittersweet and the Girls' Ghostbusting Agency is the first book in this paranormal, cozy, humourous series. The Bittersweet family are renowned for being able to see ghosts. Twenty-seven year old Melody Bittersweet decides it is time to do something different and is opening her own Ghostbusting Agency. Her idea is to help ghosts who want to leave this plain. In her first case, she is hired to rid Scarborough House of its ghosts so the owner can sell it. With her best friend, Marina in tow, they are ready to go. When Melody is visited by a ghost named Art, he convinces her to hire his son, Little Art, to work with her. It turns out to be a good decision for her.
Throughout the story, there are many laughs at Melody's expense as well as with the interactions of the ghosts with the humans. Marina and Artie are perfect sidekicks and foils for Melody and the ghosts. In this story, the spirits have been hanging around for over 100 years and their personalities are so different from one another. The humans they deal with, Fletcher Gunn and Leo Dark, are also an integral part of the story. Leo is an old boyfriend and Fletcher might become a future one, but there is definitely sexual tension there. The mystery is who killed one of the ghost twins over one hundred years ago. One of the brothers is blames and he claims he is innocent. As the story goes on, we find out more about the family and their past that is quite interesting. This is a great story to relax with. It is highly entertaining, funny and totally different from other cozies I have read. It has great characters, hints at potential romance, has a different mystery to be solved with plenty of humorous interactions, both human and spirits. This is the first in a new series that I will be reading again. I hope it continues.
Throughout the story, there are many laughs at Melody's expense as well as with the interactions of the ghosts with the humans. Marina and Artie are perfect sidekicks and foils for Melody and the ghosts. In this story, the spirits have been hanging around for over 100 years and their personalities are so different from one another. The humans they deal with, Fletcher Gunn and Leo Dark, are also an integral part of the story. Leo is an old boyfriend and Fletcher might become a future one, but there is definitely sexual tension there. The mystery is who killed one of the ghost twins over one hundred years ago. One of the brothers is blames and he claims he is innocent. As the story goes on, we find out more about the family and their past that is quite interesting. This is a great story to relax with. It is highly entertaining, funny and totally different from other cozies I have read. It has great characters, hints at potential romance, has a different mystery to be solved with plenty of humorous interactions, both human and spirits. This is the first in a new series that I will be reading again. I hope it continues.
June 6, 2024
This book was a lot of fun! I especially liked the character of the one-eared Pug named Lestat. He didn’t get a lot of page time, but I’m hopeful I will see more of him in the next book. Melody Bittersweet is a hot mess but I really loved her. If I had a magic 8 ball, I would probably make my life’s decisions with it as she does. Her family is like her, but I enjoyed meeting them too. The jury is still out on her ex, Leo Dark, but he stepped up, so there is hope he isn’t a complete tool. I’m also curious as to what happens between Melody and Fletcher, they have a lot of chemistry that needs to be explored.
Although Melody’s friends, Marina and Artie cannot see or hear ghosts, I loved how supportive they were of her and unquestioningly jumped into the situation with her.
This case involves the ghosts of the three Scarborough brothers, Douglas, Lloyd and Isaac, who are trapped in their home. Lloyd’s descendant wants Melody to clear the house of its unwanted occupants so he can sell. The ghosts are unable to leave until Douglas’ murder is solved. A murder that occurred over one hundred years ago and for which Isaac was blamed. I found the ghosts to be equally intriguing as well and developed a soft spot in my heart for Douglas and Isaac. Douglas because he was murdered so young and never got to have a life and Isaac because his brother’s murder deprived him of the woman he loved and the family he never got to know.
My Final Verdict: This story had many moments of hilarity for me but some moments of sadness as well, especially when Melody is saying goodbye to the brothers. As Melody’s last name implies, it was all very bittersweet. I recommend this story to fans of cozy mysteries who enjoy some humor with their whodunit.
Although Melody’s friends, Marina and Artie cannot see or hear ghosts, I loved how supportive they were of her and unquestioningly jumped into the situation with her.
This case involves the ghosts of the three Scarborough brothers, Douglas, Lloyd and Isaac, who are trapped in their home. Lloyd’s descendant wants Melody to clear the house of its unwanted occupants so he can sell. The ghosts are unable to leave until Douglas’ murder is solved. A murder that occurred over one hundred years ago and for which Isaac was blamed. I found the ghosts to be equally intriguing as well and developed a soft spot in my heart for Douglas and Isaac. Douglas because he was murdered so young and never got to have a life and Isaac because his brother’s murder deprived him of the woman he loved and the family he never got to know.
My Final Verdict: This story had many moments of hilarity for me but some moments of sadness as well, especially when Melody is saying goodbye to the brothers. As Melody’s last name implies, it was all very bittersweet. I recommend this story to fans of cozy mysteries who enjoy some humor with their whodunit.
January 19, 2019
This was a cute little paranormal mystery featuring likable characters . The primary strength of this book was its humor. Kitty French has a knack for comedic writing and at times, I was almost breathless with laughter. The story itself wrapped up a little too neatly for my tastes, but overall, I enjoyed the book.
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