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A Midlife Psychic Medium #2
Unbreakable Bonds
"Be careful what you wish for because karma has a way of biting you in the butt." That's what Angela Panther's mother always said.
And boy was she was right.
When Angela first discovered her gift to gab with ghosts, she fought it tooth and nail. But the second she decided it wasn't so bad, tragedy hit and the universe decided to teach her a lesson.
Now she's unable to chat with the other side and is crying out for a re-do.
When her best friend Mel suspects her husband of cheating, she asks Angela to help her prove it. They concoct the perfect plan to get the goods on him, but to make it work they'll need help from Angela's mother, Fran.
There's just one tiny little problem--Fran's dead.
As the two best friends set out on a cheater-catching adventure, they hope Fran can use her celestial super powers to help, and prove that the bond between those who've crossed over with the ones they've left behind is never broken.
And boy was she was right.
When Angela first discovered her gift to gab with ghosts, she fought it tooth and nail. But the second she decided it wasn't so bad, tragedy hit and the universe decided to teach her a lesson.
Now she's unable to chat with the other side and is crying out for a re-do.
When her best friend Mel suspects her husband of cheating, she asks Angela to help her prove it. They concoct the perfect plan to get the goods on him, but to make it work they'll need help from Angela's mother, Fran.
There's just one tiny little problem--Fran's dead.
As the two best friends set out on a cheater-catching adventure, they hope Fran can use her celestial super powers to help, and prove that the bond between those who've crossed over with the ones they've left behind is never broken.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2016
236 people are currently reading
601 people want to read
About the author
Carolyn Ridder Aspenson
147 books543 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Carolyn Ridder Aspenson writes cozy mysteries, thrillers, and paranormal women's fiction featuring strong female leads. Her stories shine through her dialogue, which readers have praised for being realistic and compelling.
A multiple number one bestseller on Amazon, her first novel, Unfinished Business, was a five-star Reader's Favorite, a Rone Award finalist, as well as a number one bestseller on both Amazon and Barnes and Noble. In 2021, she introduced readers to detective Rachel Ryder in Damaging Secrets, also a number one bestseller on Amazon. Overkill, the third book in the Rachel Ryder series, was one of Thrillerfix’s best thrillers of 2021.Reviews have praised her work as ‘compelling, and intense,’ and ‘read through the night, edge of your seat thrillers. Carolyn’s most recent Rachel Ryder novel, Deadly Means, has been submitted for an Edgar Award by her publisher, Severn River Publishing.
Prior to publishing, she worked as a journalist in the suburbs of Atlanta where her work appeared in multiple newspapers and magazines. She wrote a monthly featured column in Northside Woman magazine.
Writing is only one of Carolyn's passions. She is an avid dog lover and currently spoils an American Staffordshire terrier boxer mix. She lives in the mountains of North Georgia as an empty nester (who misses her kids terribly but loves having a lower grocery bill) with her husband, a cantankerous cat, and her very spoiled pup.
Connect with Carolyn via carolyn@carolynridderaspenson.com
A multiple number one bestseller on Amazon, her first novel, Unfinished Business, was a five-star Reader's Favorite, a Rone Award finalist, as well as a number one bestseller on both Amazon and Barnes and Noble. In 2021, she introduced readers to detective Rachel Ryder in Damaging Secrets, also a number one bestseller on Amazon. Overkill, the third book in the Rachel Ryder series, was one of Thrillerfix’s best thrillers of 2021.Reviews have praised her work as ‘compelling, and intense,’ and ‘read through the night, edge of your seat thrillers. Carolyn’s most recent Rachel Ryder novel, Deadly Means, has been submitted for an Edgar Award by her publisher, Severn River Publishing.
Prior to publishing, she worked as a journalist in the suburbs of Atlanta where her work appeared in multiple newspapers and magazines. She wrote a monthly featured column in Northside Woman magazine.
Writing is only one of Carolyn's passions. She is an avid dog lover and currently spoils an American Staffordshire terrier boxer mix. She lives in the mountains of North Georgia as an empty nester (who misses her kids terribly but loves having a lower grocery bill) with her husband, a cantankerous cat, and her very spoiled pup.
Connect with Carolyn via carolyn@carolynridderaspenson.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
June 13, 2014
Whilst I loved Unfinished Business, I really felt that Unbreakable Bonds has been superbly developed with still more depth to it, which means I loved it more than the previous one, although I wouldn’t have said that was possible.
This story is absolutely rammed with fun, happiness, anger, stupid decisions and a fair amount of rocks!! And I loved every page of it. I think this diversity is actually part of the magic that Carolyn Ridder Aspenson brings to her books, you can be crying with laughter (hysterically i might add ) one minute but a few pages or a chapter later you will be crying in empathy with her characters. I, for one, find it hard to get my hands on books that can pull on every single heartstring and laughter muscle you have!
With the backstory having already been established, there is more room in this instalment for the characters to spread their individual and collective wings. The way Angela and Jake pull together to protect their daughter after she made some suspect choices but then, after a nudge from Fran, still making her feel loved no matter what is very thoughtfully and carefully done. Josh remains a completely loveable character and I suspect he is coming into his own. Friendship is also tested here, both in skunk warfare and also in knowing when to be there for someone yet when to give them the space they need, and this was very well balanced.
There are many layers to this book, and I thoroughly enjoy it because this encourages you to think. Amongst others, the book contains moral and parenting issues, which are of course open to individual interpretation, but it is really nice to have found a writer who comes across so eloquently and is not afraid of delving into big moral situations and the fight we all face between making the right decision or making the easy decision.
The whole book is another roaring laugh and I’m actually giggling just thinking about it. One of the ways I know a book will be on my shelf for me to read over and over is when it stays with me. Not a lot pass this test but Unbreakable Bonds really made the grade so I’m thinking it will still be bringing a smile to my face for a long time. It is right on the money in oh so many ways, so get reading everyone and don’t miss out on something legendary.
review by Noemie Verlan on behalf of BestChickLit.com
This story is absolutely rammed with fun, happiness, anger, stupid decisions and a fair amount of rocks!! And I loved every page of it. I think this diversity is actually part of the magic that Carolyn Ridder Aspenson brings to her books, you can be crying with laughter (hysterically i might add ) one minute but a few pages or a chapter later you will be crying in empathy with her characters. I, for one, find it hard to get my hands on books that can pull on every single heartstring and laughter muscle you have!
With the backstory having already been established, there is more room in this instalment for the characters to spread their individual and collective wings. The way Angela and Jake pull together to protect their daughter after she made some suspect choices but then, after a nudge from Fran, still making her feel loved no matter what is very thoughtfully and carefully done. Josh remains a completely loveable character and I suspect he is coming into his own. Friendship is also tested here, both in skunk warfare and also in knowing when to be there for someone yet when to give them the space they need, and this was very well balanced.
There are many layers to this book, and I thoroughly enjoy it because this encourages you to think. Amongst others, the book contains moral and parenting issues, which are of course open to individual interpretation, but it is really nice to have found a writer who comes across so eloquently and is not afraid of delving into big moral situations and the fight we all face between making the right decision or making the easy decision.
The whole book is another roaring laugh and I’m actually giggling just thinking about it. One of the ways I know a book will be on my shelf for me to read over and over is when it stays with me. Not a lot pass this test but Unbreakable Bonds really made the grade so I’m thinking it will still be bringing a smile to my face for a long time. It is right on the money in oh so many ways, so get reading everyone and don’t miss out on something legendary.
review by Noemie Verlan on behalf of BestChickLit.com
May 19, 2015
Angela lost her ghost Mojo, she can't hear them see them or feel them. With her father's death her grief seems to have washed it all away. She still gets up, loves her family, hangs with her friend, and lives with a sense of humor. But something is missing. When rocks start walloping her out of thin air she thinks it is her mother trying to communicate with her if only she could find a way back to being the way she did't think she wanted to be. Dang, life is confusing.
In this edition to her story, her daughter is walking the line between child and adult. Her best friend is having massive marriage troubles, and is on the edge of murder. Then finally when she gets some of her ghost mojo back her life will completely change once again. She goes someplace she never wanted to go.
This is a story about shifts on the life line. Menopause, sexual awaking, divorce, family growth and break downs and it is all done with humor and respect.
Jake, her husband started of the best horny husband moments- she said she needs (playfully) a little support he comes back with "Sex is supportive. Want some ?"
"Good Lord, you're a man whore."
"And proud of it"
These two really have a fabulous fictional relationship. it is nice to see a middle age couple with middle age problems still in lusty love and deep respect. It is so rare to find a book about mature adult characters with real life issues (mostly) I like these people, enjoy their everyday steps and even though it is not the most exciting, thrill ride it is very enjoyable and had me chuckling many times. Winner for fun to read book category
Where is book 3 ?
In this edition to her story, her daughter is walking the line between child and adult. Her best friend is having massive marriage troubles, and is on the edge of murder. Then finally when she gets some of her ghost mojo back her life will completely change once again. She goes someplace she never wanted to go.
This is a story about shifts on the life line. Menopause, sexual awaking, divorce, family growth and break downs and it is all done with humor and respect.
Jake, her husband started of the best horny husband moments- she said she needs (playfully) a little support he comes back with "Sex is supportive. Want some ?"
"Good Lord, you're a man whore."
"And proud of it"
These two really have a fabulous fictional relationship. it is nice to see a middle age couple with middle age problems still in lusty love and deep respect. It is so rare to find a book about mature adult characters with real life issues (mostly) I like these people, enjoy their everyday steps and even though it is not the most exciting, thrill ride it is very enjoyable and had me chuckling many times. Winner for fun to read book category
Where is book 3 ?
October 18, 2020
Lost
Angela has lost her gift after her father's death, her teenage daughter is driving them batty, and her best friends husband is cheating. She has lost her Ma again, and is on the verge of a breakdown.
Angela has lost her gift after her father's death, her teenage daughter is driving them batty, and her best friends husband is cheating. She has lost her Ma again, and is on the verge of a breakdown.
August 10, 2019
Sweet Jesus! This series and in particular this book should come with a warning label! Spontaneous laughter will ensure thus ensuring that you will disrupt anyone around you! Would have been nice to know that before I was trying to read this while enjoying a nice cup of hot cinnamon tea at the coffeehouse today! I'm sure that the other patrons thought I should be booted for the snorting laughter or possibly the spitting tea! LOL! If you are looking for a great read that includes laughter, tears, mystery and drama with a bit of the paranormal wrapped throughout it then look no further as this is the book for you! I definitely recommend starting with the first book in the series as the backstory of the previous book definitely helps build the personalities of the characters and adds background depth to further enhance your reading pleasure. Now I am off to download the next book and see if I can thoroughly disturb the patrons at the coffeehouse again tomorrow! LOL!
February 21, 2025
Felt a bit repetitive
I'm enjoying Angela's journey with her ghost helping. I especially enjoyed she was able to bring the killer forward for Matthew. I just hope the next book isn't as repetitive.
I'm enjoying Angela's journey with her ghost helping. I especially enjoyed she was able to bring the killer forward for Matthew. I just hope the next book isn't as repetitive.
April 2, 2014
Angela used to be able to see and speak to dead people. She thought it was a curse, but now she’s lost her gift she finds herself searching for ways to get it back. She misses chatting to her late mother, Fran, and perhaps if she could reach Fran again, together they could help her best friend, Mel, who suspects her husband is cheating. And maybe she could stop that pesky ghost who keeps throwing pebbles at her.
In the first half of the story you’re rooting for Angela to recover her psychic skills. In the second half you’re carried along on an emotional journey as family dramas, here and in the beyond, are played out.
“Unbreakable Bonds” follows on from the excellent “Unfinished Business.” You don’t need to have read the first book to enjoy this one, but I feel sure that new readers will want to pick up the first book too. I’m very happy to confirm that all the elements that made the first Angela Panther novel such an enjoyable read are here again – the exuberant storytelling and witty dialogue, Angela’s wonderful relationships with Fran and Mel, the warmth, the humor, cheeky bits, and poignant moments.
I’d like to thank the author for sending me an advance review copy of this book.
In the first half of the story you’re rooting for Angela to recover her psychic skills. In the second half you’re carried along on an emotional journey as family dramas, here and in the beyond, are played out.
“Unbreakable Bonds” follows on from the excellent “Unfinished Business.” You don’t need to have read the first book to enjoy this one, but I feel sure that new readers will want to pick up the first book too. I’m very happy to confirm that all the elements that made the first Angela Panther novel such an enjoyable read are here again – the exuberant storytelling and witty dialogue, Angela’s wonderful relationships with Fran and Mel, the warmth, the humor, cheeky bits, and poignant moments.
I’d like to thank the author for sending me an advance review copy of this book.
April 1, 2014
This second book in the Angela Panther series takes place a year or so after the first book. Upon the death of her father she seems to have lost her ability to communicate with the dead and is missing that ability even though at points in the first book she was eager to lose “the gift” she had been given when her mother died. Her teenage daughter is still causing trouble, her son is a typical boy – that sees ghosts, her husband and she continue to have a wonderful loving relationship and her best friend is dealing with the possibility that her husband is cheating on her. The story is fun, tender, loving, funny and interesting. The emotions that are experienced by Angela are believable and the way she interacts with people, alive and dead, makes me wish that I could meet her. I am eager to find out what Angela will do in her next book!
August 12, 2014
4.5/5.0
“Unbreakable” is a delightfully funny, slightly irreverent paranormal romp!
Read full review in the 2014 August issue of InD’tale Magazine.
“Unbreakable” is a delightfully funny, slightly irreverent paranormal romp!
Read full review in the 2014 August issue of InD’tale Magazine.
February 27, 2022
With Carolyn Ridder Aspenson, I find myself stopping to read bits and pieces to my husband. She has a great sense of humor and brings up situations that most of us can identify with. Angela and Mel have gotten into situations together that remind me of things I'd done with some close friends when I was in my younger years. Frankly, Angela's falling on the skunk spoke to me in Unbreakable Bonds. I haven't fallen on a skunk but had recently suffered the effects of having one living and spraying under my house. My husband and I were told by our son-in-law that we smelled like skunk. It permeates your clothes etc. when you're surrounded by it enough. Her recipe for stink removal was something I'd just discovered while researching online.
This book had two major areas of focus. One was the loss of communication that Angela experienced with her mother and the loss of relationship that Mel had with her husband. Angela seemed to lose the connection with her mother when her father died. She was told that she needed to develop the right attitude for what she needed to be doing with her gift before she could regain her connection with her mother and with other ghosts. The story opens with her being pelted with rocks by an unknown spirit trying to communicate with her and feeling that they were being ignored.
Mel found out for sure that her husband Nick was cheating on her with his young office assistant. This is not the first time that he's strayed, but this seems to be pretty entrenched. Mel is still in love with him but has decided that divorce is the only future for her to be able to move on with her life and get rid of her explosive anger over the situation.
Daughter Emily is once again a major concern. Like many young women the age of 17, she makes a poor choice when it comes to a relationship with a young man. Instead of realizing that she's a valuable person who deserves to be treated with respect, she keeps trying to be what the young man wants her to be in order to keep his "love."
Angela has been wanting to keep her gift under the radar. She doesn't want her life and the life of her family to become a topic for the gossip magazines. Unfortunately, the murder of a small boy makes it impossible for her to remain anonymous. The police become aware of her gift when she comes up with information that turns the report of an accidental death into a murder. She does manage to promise to form a working relationship with a detective who promises not to make her gift public. She will not be paid because there's no money for it. (Not sure if I'm getting ahead of myself here because I've already bought and started on book 3) Lol
Jake is a wonderful, devoted husband. His major fault is a tendency to let Angela handle the problems with the children. He does support Angela's gift and doesn't expect the perfect housewife while she's embroiled in situations. He'll pick up the slack.
Josh is still the perfect son and will perhaps remain so because he sees ghosts too. If your grandma is always around, it's tough to go off doing things you shouldn't be doing.
The only thing I dislike about these books is the frequent sticking out of tongues. It seems really juvenile to me, but it could be a generational thing. Perhaps it's more acceptable with young people of Angela's age than it was when I was her age. All in all, I enjoy the banter, the complicated relationships, the emotional situations with the ghosts and their unfinished business. The people are real in these books and flawed enough to make me comfortable that I'm not reading about someone that will make me feel I don't measure up.
This book had two major areas of focus. One was the loss of communication that Angela experienced with her mother and the loss of relationship that Mel had with her husband. Angela seemed to lose the connection with her mother when her father died. She was told that she needed to develop the right attitude for what she needed to be doing with her gift before she could regain her connection with her mother and with other ghosts. The story opens with her being pelted with rocks by an unknown spirit trying to communicate with her and feeling that they were being ignored.
Mel found out for sure that her husband Nick was cheating on her with his young office assistant. This is not the first time that he's strayed, but this seems to be pretty entrenched. Mel is still in love with him but has decided that divorce is the only future for her to be able to move on with her life and get rid of her explosive anger over the situation.
Daughter Emily is once again a major concern. Like many young women the age of 17, she makes a poor choice when it comes to a relationship with a young man. Instead of realizing that she's a valuable person who deserves to be treated with respect, she keeps trying to be what the young man wants her to be in order to keep his "love."
Angela has been wanting to keep her gift under the radar. She doesn't want her life and the life of her family to become a topic for the gossip magazines. Unfortunately, the murder of a small boy makes it impossible for her to remain anonymous. The police become aware of her gift when she comes up with information that turns the report of an accidental death into a murder. She does manage to promise to form a working relationship with a detective who promises not to make her gift public. She will not be paid because there's no money for it. (Not sure if I'm getting ahead of myself here because I've already bought and started on book 3) Lol
Jake is a wonderful, devoted husband. His major fault is a tendency to let Angela handle the problems with the children. He does support Angela's gift and doesn't expect the perfect housewife while she's embroiled in situations. He'll pick up the slack.
Josh is still the perfect son and will perhaps remain so because he sees ghosts too. If your grandma is always around, it's tough to go off doing things you shouldn't be doing.
The only thing I dislike about these books is the frequent sticking out of tongues. It seems really juvenile to me, but it could be a generational thing. Perhaps it's more acceptable with young people of Angela's age than it was when I was her age. All in all, I enjoy the banter, the complicated relationships, the emotional situations with the ghosts and their unfinished business. The people are real in these books and flawed enough to make me comfortable that I'm not reading about someone that will make me feel I don't measure up.
February 16, 2020
Living this series so much
I am addicted! Unbreakable Bonds, the second book in the Angela Panther series, was as good as the first and I can't wait to read the next one.
I am addicted! Unbreakable Bonds, the second book in the Angela Panther series, was as good as the first and I can't wait to read the next one.
August 4, 2016
Angela is back! I loved book one in this series and was thrilled to see the release of book two! Angela and her strong willed and sharp tongue ghost mother Fran are a hilarious mother/daughter duo that it is near impossible not to smile at throughout all their conversations and arguments. Fran and Angela both give as good as they take! This time around she has lost the ability to see her mother, and for the beginning of the story she can’t even hear her…much to Angela’s distress. Of course Fran doesn’t handle that too well herself, and leaves fun messages for her daughter-often frightening her. Fran does come back in time to help out Angela and her best friend Mel catch Mel’s husband lying and cheating, not to mention nose into some of the teenager daughter drama.
Angela’s relationship with both her kids and her husband are very endearing to me, as I have kids the same age and the book closely mimics my relationship with not only my husband, but my kids too. My son is my happy place and more often than not my daughter thinks I am the meanest mom around. It lightens my heart to read about the mom/daughter stuff as it makes me feel not so alone in the battle of wills between mom and daughter.
I have been looking forward to book two in the Angela story ever since the finishing the first book. I love how well the author develops not only her characters, but her relationship between the characters. And there is always an adventure when Angela and my ghostly mother are involved. I highly recommend this story to you, and if you have yet to read the first in the series, start there! And please prepare to crave a few cupcakes during your journey!
Angela’s relationship with both her kids and her husband are very endearing to me, as I have kids the same age and the book closely mimics my relationship with not only my husband, but my kids too. My son is my happy place and more often than not my daughter thinks I am the meanest mom around. It lightens my heart to read about the mom/daughter stuff as it makes me feel not so alone in the battle of wills between mom and daughter.
I have been looking forward to book two in the Angela story ever since the finishing the first book. I love how well the author develops not only her characters, but her relationship between the characters. And there is always an adventure when Angela and my ghostly mother are involved. I highly recommend this story to you, and if you have yet to read the first in the series, start there! And please prepare to crave a few cupcakes during your journey!
December 8, 2023
Just finished another great book in the series. If I may be so bold, this was even better than the first.
Poor Angela loses her gift, that she claims he didn't want anyway, but does she really?
I think the reason I love these books is that they are so realistic in regards to the family dynamics and feelings of being different or left out or fed up. Although I really wanted to smack Angela and Emily at different times in the book. lol
There are some sad parts in the story, but I love the snarky back & forth between Mel & Angela.
I am on to book 3 and am hoping that there is a story-line involving Josh more.
Poor Angela loses her gift, that she claims he didn't want anyway, but does she really?
I think the reason I love these books is that they are so realistic in regards to the family dynamics and feelings of being different or left out or fed up. Although I really wanted to smack Angela and Emily at different times in the book. lol
There are some sad parts in the story, but I love the snarky back & forth between Mel & Angela.
I am on to book 3 and am hoping that there is a story-line involving Josh more.
August 28, 2016
Unbreakable Bonds is a hilarious sequel to Unfinished Business. Angela is not able to see or hear her dead mother and is frustrated and missing her Ma. With her father also dead, she is wishing she can see his ghost too. Add in a teenage daughter in love and a best friend whose husband is cheating on her and you have a very enjoyable story. You'll want to keep reading to see if Angela gets her gift back and is able to help the ghosts trying to contact her. This is a very entertaining book that will be hard to put down.
November 3, 2021
OMGS! Murphy's Law at work for Angela!
I'm in awe! Most of this book is in snarky, heartbreaking, loving dialogue! And throughout Angela is confronted with new hard to bear, truths, about her 'gift'. Hard hitting family events leaving hubby, Jake, and Angela with events neither wants to confront, and, to top it off? BFF, Mel, facing tragedies of her own. All of this while while her gift is literally throwing rocks at her! All I can say it's a great read, full of twists and unexpected turns that will leave you wanting MORE! I'm definitely ready for book 3!
I'm in awe! Most of this book is in snarky, heartbreaking, loving dialogue! And throughout Angela is confronted with new hard to bear, truths, about her 'gift'. Hard hitting family events leaving hubby, Jake, and Angela with events neither wants to confront, and, to top it off? BFF, Mel, facing tragedies of her own. All of this while while her gift is literally throwing rocks at her! All I can say it's a great read, full of twists and unexpected turns that will leave you wanting MORE! I'm definitely ready for book 3!
April 24, 2017
'Unbreakable Bonds' was a great addition to a fantastic series. I love the storyline and how it played out. My emotions we're all over the place with this book. I laughed, cried, giggled, laughed out loud and teared up again. I love when a book can do that. Angela is getting better at accepting her role in the spirit world. Mel is downright hilarious. I can't wait to read more. A great add to your tbr list.
May 4, 2014
This was a fun, well written story. It has strong characters and a strong story. It captures and pulls you in from the very beginning. I became a huge fan of Carolyn's after reading the first novel Unfinished Business. I absolutely love the relationship between Angela and her mother. This is something that a lot of people can relate to on many levels. I recommend this to anyone!
June 18, 2015
I love this series! It has me thinking the characters are real and the issues she faces are real. When a book can do that it has me hook line and sinker.
June 18, 2015
Review to come
November 4, 2021
A confused psychic medium gives us plenty of laughs while solving murders and mysteries.
April 18, 2023
After the death of her father, and an all too brief death night visit, Angela has a difficult time hearing or seeing the departed. with a few urgent cases, the timing is, to say the least, unfortunate.
when my own father died when I was a child, for I long time I couldn't remember saying goodbye to him before he left on the trip that would lead to his fatal heart attack.
it of course took a determined mom to remind me - I said goodbye when he lingered in the driveway before leaving- and of course he would know either way that I loved him.
it just became this sticking point for me
Angela seems stuck on not being able to see her father, and she loses the connection to her mother as well.
grief really can feel multiplied
intense introspection and mourning gets worked through by Angela- and I really appreciated that it was messy. drama with her teen daughter- very messy.
and it made my life dramas a little less heavy for a while.
I am seriously jealous of her annoying but ultimately pretty decent husband, and maybe more jealous that Angela has an amazing bestie like Mel by her side.
through horrible drama for both of them, the stand their ground, cookie dunking, hangover helping, make sure you get away from the man drama sisterhood
the best parts are the connections- living and dead.
a crazy mama with Italian attitude is hilarious, and so touching as she works to help her daughter and other spirits- and hilarious as she gets real and frank and funny about life - and orgasms.
I want these gals in my e reader if I can't have them at my dinner table !
when my own father died when I was a child, for I long time I couldn't remember saying goodbye to him before he left on the trip that would lead to his fatal heart attack.
it of course took a determined mom to remind me - I said goodbye when he lingered in the driveway before leaving- and of course he would know either way that I loved him.
it just became this sticking point for me
Angela seems stuck on not being able to see her father, and she loses the connection to her mother as well.
grief really can feel multiplied
intense introspection and mourning gets worked through by Angela- and I really appreciated that it was messy. drama with her teen daughter- very messy.
and it made my life dramas a little less heavy for a while.
I am seriously jealous of her annoying but ultimately pretty decent husband, and maybe more jealous that Angela has an amazing bestie like Mel by her side.
through horrible drama for both of them, the stand their ground, cookie dunking, hangover helping, make sure you get away from the man drama sisterhood
the best parts are the connections- living and dead.
a crazy mama with Italian attitude is hilarious, and so touching as she works to help her daughter and other spirits- and hilarious as she gets real and frank and funny about life - and orgasms.
I want these gals in my e reader if I can't have them at my dinner table !
June 17, 2025
A Kind but slightly insecure Middle Aged Woman helps the Dead
Angela Panther is a middle-aged woman who discovers she can see and talk with spirits of the departed after her mother dies. In this third book about Angela Panther, dealing with a gift that comes and goes, discovers that she likes helping the departed send important messages to their loved ones. She finally has come to terms with her gift thanks to a mom who is not only dead but is taking classes to become a spiirit Guide. Sometimes, her larger than life bossy, judgemental, and othetimes just plain, rude, hut loving Italian mother pulls a few stunts that terrify those who don't listen to her beloved daughter. It's campy but full of laughs and tears and lots of love. Her husband and she are close even with a 17 yesr old daughter and a son about 12 or so who also sees and talks to ghoss. Somehow, Carolyn Ridder Aspens[n makes all of this seem part of a perfectly normal dysfunctional family. Love keeps them mostly sane and a surprisingly loving supportive family.. You'll enjoy this rather far-fetched little cozy for those days when you don't want to think about all the stress in your life orr country. Enjoy.
Angela Panther is a middle-aged woman who discovers she can see and talk with spirits of the departed after her mother dies. In this third book about Angela Panther, dealing with a gift that comes and goes, discovers that she likes helping the departed send important messages to their loved ones. She finally has come to terms with her gift thanks to a mom who is not only dead but is taking classes to become a spiirit Guide. Sometimes, her larger than life bossy, judgemental, and othetimes just plain, rude, hut loving Italian mother pulls a few stunts that terrify those who don't listen to her beloved daughter. It's campy but full of laughs and tears and lots of love. Her husband and she are close even with a 17 yesr old daughter and a son about 12 or so who also sees and talks to ghoss. Somehow, Carolyn Ridder Aspens[n makes all of this seem part of a perfectly normal dysfunctional family. Love keeps them mostly sane and a surprisingly loving supportive family.. You'll enjoy this rather far-fetched little cozy for those days when you don't want to think about all the stress in your life orr country. Enjoy.
May 20, 2024
Intriguing
Angela Panther is married to Jake and has children, a mouthy, hilarious bestie and lives a normal life, until suddenly, she doesn’t. After all it isn’t everyday that a childhood ability returns unexpectedly- she can see dead people,and with that ah, gift? comes a trainload (or trainwreck depending on the day) of unexpected issues and challenges.
Some are unexpected ( like her mom showing up) and awkward, (like the gift disappearing when her dad passes) and then sort of returning again audibly (she can hear her but can’t see her), not sure what that really is though, since Angie needs her mom to help her connect with deceased ghosts - others who have living loved ones in troubled situations that can’t pass till their loved ones have the help they need.
And of course in the midst of all the ghostly chaos,somehow Angie and family with crazy teenagers, sweet hubby’s, struggling besties and their evil cheating spouses (looking at you Nick 🤬) it’s a hilarious, interesting novel with an intriguing storyline and an absolutely worthwhile read
Angela Panther is married to Jake and has children, a mouthy, hilarious bestie and lives a normal life, until suddenly, she doesn’t. After all it isn’t everyday that a childhood ability returns unexpectedly- she can see dead people,and with that ah, gift? comes a trainload (or trainwreck depending on the day) of unexpected issues and challenges.
Some are unexpected ( like her mom showing up) and awkward, (like the gift disappearing when her dad passes) and then sort of returning again audibly (she can hear her but can’t see her), not sure what that really is though, since Angie needs her mom to help her connect with deceased ghosts - others who have living loved ones in troubled situations that can’t pass till their loved ones have the help they need.
And of course in the midst of all the ghostly chaos,somehow Angie and family with crazy teenagers, sweet hubby’s, struggling besties and their evil cheating spouses (looking at you Nick 🤬) it’s a hilarious, interesting novel with an intriguing storyline and an absolutely worthwhile read
February 8, 2024
Really loved the story! Hated all the typos!
The story here got better from the first book but good gracious, why all the typos! If this author has been publishing this long, why haven't they cleaned this up by now? It really pulls me out of a story when there's so many and I highlighted over 20 or so.
The story itself was wonderful. The character development deepened, making you love Angela, Jake, Emily, Josh, Mel, and Ma so much more. I felt the conflict in this book was even better than the last. I would read the next book, but honestly if it ends up having as many typos I might stop the series. I really don't like reading a book that has more than a handful. Especially when an author is already this well established! I'd be more forgiving for a first or second time author publishing but that's not the case here.
The story here got better from the first book but good gracious, why all the typos! If this author has been publishing this long, why haven't they cleaned this up by now? It really pulls me out of a story when there's so many and I highlighted over 20 or so.
The story itself was wonderful. The character development deepened, making you love Angela, Jake, Emily, Josh, Mel, and Ma so much more. I felt the conflict in this book was even better than the last. I would read the next book, but honestly if it ends up having as many typos I might stop the series. I really don't like reading a book that has more than a handful. Especially when an author is already this well established! I'd be more forgiving for a first or second time author publishing but that's not the case here.
February 28, 2019
This is the second book in the series. I suggest reading the first one first. It makes it much more enjoyable. I love the 80s trivia. It brings back memories. Well Angela has no luck in this one. Why do things keep happening? Poo in the face and sprayed by a skunk. EWWWW Also being pelted by rocks-no fun! There was family drama with a teenage daughter. A best friend going though some stuff. This book keeps you entertained. The mystery gets solved and the murder uncovered. A good read! Off to read the third book now.
January 13, 2019
What a wonderful and touching story!!!!!!!!
You simply cannot put this book down! The mix of family drama and supernatural drama is superlative!!!!!!!!!! The teen angst and coming of age, perfectly depicted!!!!!!! Every last eye roll, lol! The little boy ghost story and his death was so powerful. Then you added poor Mel!!!! I cannot wait see where Angela goes next!!!!!!!!! MOST EXCELLENT JOB !!!!!!!!!!
You simply cannot put this book down! The mix of family drama and supernatural drama is superlative!!!!!!!!!! The teen angst and coming of age, perfectly depicted!!!!!!! Every last eye roll, lol! The little boy ghost story and his death was so powerful. Then you added poor Mel!!!! I cannot wait see where Angela goes next!!!!!!!!! MOST EXCELLENT JOB !!!!!!!!!!
January 12, 2019
This book reads very easily. It's captivating and I really feel like I know the characters personally. The development of the characters is very nicely done, the conversations often put a smile on my face, the family dynamics are very familiar. I just love it and highly recommend it! Can't wait to read on in the series! Read it in one go, this one!
September 15, 2019
Addictive Series
I've become totally addicted to this wonderful series.
Angela Panther does not want to talk to dead people, and she certainly doesn't want anyone to find out about her gift. Unfortunately, it seems that Angela's secret is about to become valuable to someone, and Angela isn't sure how to deal with it.
I've become totally addicted to this wonderful series.
Angela Panther does not want to talk to dead people, and she certainly doesn't want anyone to find out about her gift. Unfortunately, it seems that Angela's secret is about to become valuable to someone, and Angela isn't sure how to deal with it.
February 25, 2022
I tried to read this book
What a confusing story that made little sense. I tried to read it but I gave moo up and went to the end. Too much time was spent on trying to contact ghosts. The story just jumped from one character to another who were behaving odd. Dear author get to the point and have some sensible characters
What a confusing story that made little sense. I tried to read it but I gave moo up and went to the end. Too much time was spent on trying to contact ghosts. The story just jumped from one character to another who were behaving odd. Dear author get to the point and have some sensible characters
August 8, 2022
Unbreakable Bonds
Book 2 in this series had 2 different twist to the storyline making the story even better than the first book. I love this author's writing and had to purchase the rest if the books in this series because I don't want to waste any time between books. This is a must read.
Book 2 in this series had 2 different twist to the storyline making the story even better than the first book. I love this author's writing and had to purchase the rest if the books in this series because I don't want to waste any time between books. This is a must read.
March 2, 2023
my new favorite author
Carolyn Ridder Aspenson tells a damn good story, which makes me very glad I found her books now. I would absolutely hate to have to wait for the next book to be released...at some later date! She leaves you scrambling to find and download the book in the series.
Carolyn Ridder Aspenson tells a damn good story, which makes me very glad I found her books now. I would absolutely hate to have to wait for the next book to be released...at some later date! She leaves you scrambling to find and download the book in the series.
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