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Witch City Mystery #5
Grave Errors
Whose funeral will be next?
For residents of Salem, Massachusetts, the day after Halloween brings empty candy wrappers, sagging pumpkins, and a community-wide identity crisis. That is, until Lee Barrett s TV production class suggests extending the spooky season with the traditional Mexican celebration Dia de Los Muertos. But when the students discover not all of Salem’s dead are resting in peace, the post-October blues don’t seem so bad after all . . .
As if a series of haunting graveyard visits isn’t disturbing enough, Lee and her policeman boyfriend connect the crime to an unsolved missing person case. Driven by a series of chilling psychic visions, Lee calls on her cleverest allies, including her shrewd cat, O Ryan, to go underground and dig up the evidence needed to put a lid on a cold case forever . . . before the latest headstone in town has her name on it!
330 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 29, 2017
144 people are currently reading
983 people want to read
About the author
Carol J. Perry
36 books778 followersCarol J. Perry is the author of the Witch City Mystery series and the Haunted Haven series, both from Kensington Publishers. The Witch City stories take place in the magical city of Salem, Massachusetts--the "Witch City." Carol was actually born in Salem (on Halloween eve!) and knows the city well. The Haunted Haven books take place in Carol's adopted home state of Florida. As an experienced travel writer for magazines and newspapers, Carol knows her way around the Sunshine State too. The Salem books are based of course on a real city but Haven, Florida is made up of bits and pieces of some of the Sunshine State's charming older towns--bypassed by the theme parks. Readers of the Witch City books have come to know O'Ryan, a most remarkable cat. The new series introduces Finn, a lovable Golden Retriever.
Carol lives in the Tampa Bay area of Florida with her husband Dan.
Librarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Carol lives in the Tampa Bay area of Florida with her husband Dan.
Librarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
August 9, 2017
I straight up love this cover. It's super cute. A great representation of the story. Fabulous use of graphics. The composition is fairly good (I would have moved the title a bit more to the right). It's colorful and I love the title work.
I enjoyed this one a lot. I will say that the cover and synopsis led me to believe this would be more Halloween centric than it actually turned out be. Despite being a bit bummed out about the lack of the Halloween backdrop this one managed to pull me in and keep me turning the pages.
I found it to be pretty well written and nicely paced. It was pretty obvious who the baddie was going to be from early on, so I can't say that took me by surprise. The author does throw in a couple of red herrings though to keep it interesting. There is a great cast of secondary characters. Including a cat that acts just a teeny bit human like.
There really isn't any romance per se in this one. Lee has a boyfriend Pete that features heavily in the book. They are already an established couple which I rather liked because sometimes the romance aspect of these cozy mysteries can feel forced. I also found Lee to be a very likable main character. Lastly, there are some super yummy recipes included. What more can you ask for? Two thumbs up from yours truly.
November 26, 2022
Grave Errors (Witch City Mystery, #5)
by Carol J. Perry
Full of action and danger, this book has Lee and her detective boyfriend working together to solve a murder. Lee using her psychic abilities, which she hates to use. Her class goes to the cemetery for pictures and soon they are in trouble.
by Carol J. Perry
Full of action and danger, this book has Lee and her detective boyfriend working together to solve a murder. Lee using her psychic abilities, which she hates to use. Her class goes to the cemetery for pictures and soon they are in trouble.
September 7, 2017
To extend the Halloween season just a bit in Salem, Lee Barrett's television production class decides to do a feature on Dia De Los Muertos. As they plan cemetery visits and interviews, Lee discovers one of her students has ulterior motives for taking her class. Dorothy wants to learn about investigative reporting so she can start looking for her sister's killer. Her sister Emily supposedly died of an overdose, but Dorothy knows it was murder. Lee and her boyfriend, Pete, discover links between Emily's death and another unsolved case. And Lee starts having visions about the murder. Can they discover who killed Emily and why?
Grave Errors is the fifth book in the Witch City Mystery series. I love how the characters are developing as the series progresses. I do wish that Lee would just embrace her gift of scrying instead of always freaking out about it. The story moves a little slower in this book than previous ones, but once it got rolling, I was hooked. There were plenty of twists and suspects to keep me guessing. This cozy definitely got me thinking about fall and Halloween. :) I'm ready for the season change!
I enjoy this series. Lee is a good main character and I like how she has developed since the first book. Her boyfriend, Pete, is a good match for her. They definitely investigate well together. Lee's aunt as usual is a top-notch researcher. Her students even pitch in and help out. All in all, I really enjoy this series. I keep coming back for more every time a new book comes out!
The cover art, as usual, is awesome!!
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
Grave Errors is the fifth book in the Witch City Mystery series. I love how the characters are developing as the series progresses. I do wish that Lee would just embrace her gift of scrying instead of always freaking out about it. The story moves a little slower in this book than previous ones, but once it got rolling, I was hooked. There were plenty of twists and suspects to keep me guessing. This cozy definitely got me thinking about fall and Halloween. :) I'm ready for the season change!
I enjoy this series. Lee is a good main character and I like how she has developed since the first book. Her boyfriend, Pete, is a good match for her. They definitely investigate well together. Lee's aunt as usual is a top-notch researcher. Her students even pitch in and help out. All in all, I really enjoy this series. I keep coming back for more every time a new book comes out!
The cover art, as usual, is awesome!!
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
August 30, 2017
I've read every book in the Witch City Mystery series and love them all! Carol J. Perry did it again and delivered another page turner.
I love the cover and especially like that it represents the story so well. It captures the atmosphere and could almost be a scene from the book.
Dorothy leaves her off the grid home in Alaska and comes to Salem to take Lee's course Investigative Reporting at the Tabby to help her proving that her sister Emilys' death was murder and not and accident as ruled by the police.
For a good part of the book Pete and Lee can openly discuss the findings and clues since it is not an open investigation which was a nice touch. As always the paranormal elements were not overpowering or giving away too much information. There were a lot of twists and turns that kept me changing my thoughts frequently of who the murderer was.
The book leaves me with a strong autumn feel. Rain, wind and even some scenes on a cemetary on a foggy night were creating an eerie atmosphere that made me cuddle up with a blanket and a nice hot cup of coffee. I liked the idea of extending the Halloween season by celebrating the Day of the Dead a traditional Mexican holiday which was something new to me.
I am already looking forward to the next installment.
As with every book in this series it can be read as stand alone.
I requested this book from NetGalley and am thankful that Kensington and the author provided me with a copy.
I love the cover and especially like that it represents the story so well. It captures the atmosphere and could almost be a scene from the book.
Dorothy leaves her off the grid home in Alaska and comes to Salem to take Lee's course Investigative Reporting at the Tabby to help her proving that her sister Emilys' death was murder and not and accident as ruled by the police.
For a good part of the book Pete and Lee can openly discuss the findings and clues since it is not an open investigation which was a nice touch. As always the paranormal elements were not overpowering or giving away too much information. There were a lot of twists and turns that kept me changing my thoughts frequently of who the murderer was.
The book leaves me with a strong autumn feel. Rain, wind and even some scenes on a cemetary on a foggy night were creating an eerie atmosphere that made me cuddle up with a blanket and a nice hot cup of coffee. I liked the idea of extending the Halloween season by celebrating the Day of the Dead a traditional Mexican holiday which was something new to me.
I am already looking forward to the next installment.
As with every book in this series it can be read as stand alone.
I requested this book from NetGalley and am thankful that Kensington and the author provided me with a copy.
October 21, 2017
Grave Errors is the 5th book in the Witch City Mystery series. If you love cozies with a well planned mystery and a touch of paranormal, this series is for you!
The main character, Lee, is likable and engaging. Although she lives in Salem, she's not a witch, but her abilities as a scryer enable her to help her detective boyfriend solve mysteries! The images she sees in mirrors and other dark, shiny objects, makes the books in the series different from other cozies and keeps the story fresh and interesting.
Although I did guess the murderer about halfway through, the mystery still kept my attention to the end. I look forward to reading more in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed this book via NetGalley.
The main character, Lee, is likable and engaging. Although she lives in Salem, she's not a witch, but her abilities as a scryer enable her to help her detective boyfriend solve mysteries! The images she sees in mirrors and other dark, shiny objects, makes the books in the series different from other cozies and keeps the story fresh and interesting.
Although I did guess the murderer about halfway through, the mystery still kept my attention to the end. I look forward to reading more in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed this book via NetGalley.
July 23, 2017
Halloween is nearing in Salem, Massachusetts and Lee Barrett's TV class has decided to showcase the holiday with a celebration of Mexican celebration of Dia de Los Muertos (The Day of Dead). The sister of a classmate was found dead and the police rule it a suicide. Lee's visions suggest that all the death was not a suicide but something more sinister. Lee and her class work with police to find answers. O'Ryan became friends with a stray white cat who was often near the site of hostility. I appreciate that most of the violence was off the pages and that Lee did not put herself in danger. Recipes are included. I highly recommend this book and series.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
August 30, 2022
I’ve never had 12 books in a series to read all together in my entire life ! It’s a long story about why I do , I won’t go into. A few things are getting on my nerves but maybe it’s because I’ve read five in a row ?! I still enjoy it and they are page- turners for me and I love the setting and the cats etc.
August 29, 2017
I like this series, the characters are nice, not real exciting or very humorous like I usually like my characters, the paranormal angle isn't played up a lot, it's there but only after the crime is solved do we see where the visions pointed. For me the best part of the series is the setting, Salem is a great setting for a paranormal mystery series. There is a preview at the end of the book for the next in the series but no release date. So looks like I'll be reading another Witch City Mystery when it comes out.
July 30, 2017
I've enjoyed this series since the first book and Grave Errors by Carol J. Perry is another good addition to the series.
Lee Barrett is a fun, quirky character who has the ability to see things, not ordinary things, but visions. When she looks into a shiny surface, Lee is never sure what she will see.
As a teacher at The Tabby, a new student joins her class for one reason, she needs Lee's help to prove her sister was murdered.
With her new students in tow, Lee, with the help of her aunt, begins an investigation that unravels secrets and clues to what really happened.
As much as I enjoyed the book, I felt it was missing something. Usually I am at the edge of my seat reading a book in this series, but that didn't happen this time.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
Lee Barrett is a fun, quirky character who has the ability to see things, not ordinary things, but visions. When she looks into a shiny surface, Lee is never sure what she will see.
As a teacher at The Tabby, a new student joins her class for one reason, she needs Lee's help to prove her sister was murdered.
With her new students in tow, Lee, with the help of her aunt, begins an investigation that unravels secrets and clues to what really happened.
As much as I enjoyed the book, I felt it was missing something. Usually I am at the edge of my seat reading a book in this series, but that didn't happen this time.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
August 16, 2017
**I voluntarily read this ARC**
I loved this book, but I was also disappointed in parts of it. I like that Lee is a reluctant scryer. Her struggling with her ability really adds to the story. I really enjoyed the mystery, but I found the twists to be a bit predictable. The addition of a Day of the Dead celebration was awesome, but I felt that it was lacking a little in the explanation of the holiday and its traditions.
I loved this book, but I was also disappointed in parts of it. I like that Lee is a reluctant scryer. Her struggling with her ability really adds to the story. I really enjoyed the mystery, but I found the twists to be a bit predictable. The addition of a Day of the Dead celebration was awesome, but I felt that it was lacking a little in the explanation of the holiday and its traditions.
October 20, 2021
This series is so fascinating, not only do I love the characters but I really love the setting. Salem Mass., I've been there several times and long to go back, have taken pictures with orbs showing up, and been on a ghost toure which was fantastic.
I do believe in ghost, spirits, whatever you want to call them, I've seen them, had had them speak to me, scared me and comforted me. they are real.
I do believe in ghost, spirits, whatever you want to call them, I've seen them, had had them speak to me, scared me and comforted me. they are real.
May 11, 2022
2.5 ⭐
I read the first 3 books years ago, so I decided to try to pick the series back up. I don't know what younger me liked so much in these books. Present day me finds them stale, repetitive, and a bit snooty. I don't like Lee, and I don't see that changing. I doubt I'll continue, because even though I like the spooky theme, the way that Lee is so against it really puts me off. Example: How she painted Dakota as some weirdo because he said he likes cemeteries. Listen Lee, cemeteries are more exciting than your character, BYE.
I read the first 3 books years ago, so I decided to try to pick the series back up. I don't know what younger me liked so much in these books. Present day me finds them stale, repetitive, and a bit snooty. I don't like Lee, and I don't see that changing. I doubt I'll continue, because even though I like the spooky theme, the way that Lee is so against it really puts me off. Example: How she painted Dakota as some weirdo because he said he likes cemeteries. Listen Lee, cemeteries are more exciting than your character, BYE.
November 19, 2017
Even though this is the fifth book in the Witch City Mystery series, it is only the second one I have read and not only do I enjoy this series, but I have had not problem following it. When Hallowe'en is over Salem, there is a huge let down. To extend the Halloween festivities, Lee Barrett's television production class decides plan a city wide celebration for Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead). As they plan cemetery visits and interviews, Lee gets to know a bit more about her students. She finds out that Dorothy is in Salem and taking her class to learn about investigative techniques so she can solve her sister's murder. The only problem is that no one else thinks her sister was murdered. Her sister Emily supposedly died of an overdose, but Dorothy does not belive it. Lee and her detective boyfriend, Pete, discover links between Emily's death and a missing person. Once Lee starts having visions about the murder, she can't stop investigating. Can they discover who killed Emily and why?
Maralee, (Lee) is a scryer. That means that she sees visions in shiny objects such as mirrors, windows, kettles etc. She does not like this and freaks out a bit every time it happens. Pete is not enthralled with her gift either. The only one who seems to think this is a good thing is her friend, witch and tarot card reader River. Pete and Lee make a great couple. They have a lot in common, they enjoy each other's company and they definitely investigate well together. Lee's aunt as usual is a top-notch researcher. Aunt Libby helps with the cases in her own way and is a great sounding board for Lee. The students in the story add a lot to the plot. They work hard to do their project as well as helping lee and Dorothy. The brothers Ray and Rick are retired policemen and take it upon themselves to protect "the ladies". The build up for this story is a bit slow, but don't give up on it, once it hits its stride, it moves a lot quicker. There were plenty of twists and suspects to keep me guessing. I did guess correctly, but not at first. All in all, a fun cozy mystery with great characters. A great fall and Hallowe'en read. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
Maralee, (Lee) is a scryer. That means that she sees visions in shiny objects such as mirrors, windows, kettles etc. She does not like this and freaks out a bit every time it happens. Pete is not enthralled with her gift either. The only one who seems to think this is a good thing is her friend, witch and tarot card reader River. Pete and Lee make a great couple. They have a lot in common, they enjoy each other's company and they definitely investigate well together. Lee's aunt as usual is a top-notch researcher. Aunt Libby helps with the cases in her own way and is a great sounding board for Lee. The students in the story add a lot to the plot. They work hard to do their project as well as helping lee and Dorothy. The brothers Ray and Rick are retired policemen and take it upon themselves to protect "the ladies". The build up for this story is a bit slow, but don't give up on it, once it hits its stride, it moves a lot quicker. There were plenty of twists and suspects to keep me guessing. I did guess correctly, but not at first. All in all, a fun cozy mystery with great characters. A great fall and Hallowe'en read. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
July 13, 2017
There is nothing more satisfying to me than a really great cozy mystery ghost story. Carol J. Perry has a way of making a paranormal cozy feel perfectly normal and complete! Grave Errors is out August 29th and is book five in the Witch City Mysteries. I love this series, it is not at all what I expected when I picked up book number 1 and I am more surprised and enchanted with each additional book. I was blown away. Main character Lee, is very much relatable to me, actually she is one of my most favorite characters of all time in all the cozy series I read. She is someone I could completely be friends with. She is smart, takes things as they come and has about the best mental health balance of any characters out there. Despite the fact that she is widowed, orphaned, she is about as untraumatized and yet strengthened by these very things that would make most of us throw in the towel. She has a great job as a teacher in a school that is based in an old department store in Salem Massachusetts, she is a Nascar fan, has a great yellow cat, boyfriend on the police force, an Aunt who is like her own personal google search engine and she see visions in shiny objects....Seriously I could not make this up but I am so glad that Carol J. Perry did because this book was the perfect read for someone like me who loves the fall, Nascar, Witches, Cats and knows a great paranormal cozy when I read one! This one is highly recommended and I am thrilled I got to read it early!
September 4, 2017
Grave Errors is the 5th book in the Witch City Mystery series. It is a light paranormal cozy mystery series. I have enjoyed all 5 books especially the first book. This book for me was the weakest entry into the series. It seemed like there was filler information on daily activities such as what people wore and what they ate as two examples. However, I still like the series.
What I like about the series is the location and the characters. The setting is Salem Ma. and Lee Barrett is the main protagonist. She is teaching a TV production class on The Tabby which is a school for the arts. She can see visions on shiny surfaces. She is likable.
My favorite character might be her Aunt Ibby. She is a vibrant tech savvy 60 something year old. She is dating the head of The Tabby. She is a great cook. She and Lee discuss the cases that Lee becomes involved with. Lee lives in an upstairs apartment at her aunt's house.
Another plus for me is O'Ryan(Lee's cat) is a real character in the series. He adds to the storyline and is not used on the cover or in passing to draw in feline lovers.
The plot is always unique too in the series. This case the cause of death is different than any other cause of death that I have previously read. It is a fun series. If you like an different light paranormal cozy you should like this series. I am now waiting for the next entry in the series.
What I like about the series is the location and the characters. The setting is Salem Ma. and Lee Barrett is the main protagonist. She is teaching a TV production class on The Tabby which is a school for the arts. She can see visions on shiny surfaces. She is likable.
My favorite character might be her Aunt Ibby. She is a vibrant tech savvy 60 something year old. She is dating the head of The Tabby. She is a great cook. She and Lee discuss the cases that Lee becomes involved with. Lee lives in an upstairs apartment at her aunt's house.
Another plus for me is O'Ryan(Lee's cat) is a real character in the series. He adds to the storyline and is not used on the cover or in passing to draw in feline lovers.
The plot is always unique too in the series. This case the cause of death is different than any other cause of death that I have previously read. It is a fun series. If you like an different light paranormal cozy you should like this series. I am now waiting for the next entry in the series.
November 8, 2021
Solitamente leggo le serie in ordine, ma questo libro era l'unico in mio possesso che mi permetteva di fare una challenge, quindi l'ho comunque letto. Per fortuna non ho sentito la mancanza dei due precedenti che ho momentaneamente saltato.
Come gli altri libri questo si legge con piacere, non riuscivo a mettere giù l'ereader. Se proprio devo trovare una pecca, devo dire che a un certo punto mi sembrava chiarissimo chi fosse il colpevole e non capivo come mai i vari personaggi ci mettessero tanto a orientarsi da quella parte...
Come gli altri libri questo si legge con piacere, non riuscivo a mettere giù l'ereader. Se proprio devo trovare una pecca, devo dire che a un certo punto mi sembrava chiarissimo chi fosse il colpevole e non capivo come mai i vari personaggi ci mettessero tanto a orientarsi da quella parte...
September 9, 2022
Another great entry in a very entertaining series. This is book #5 in the Witch City Mystery series and Lee once again is involved in solving a murder. This series has a touch of paranormal with Lee's "visions", which help policeman boyfriend Pete in his investigation. This time Lee is teaching a group of students about television production when one of her students states that her sister was murdered. Lee gets Pete to reopen the case which had been labeled an accidental death. I really enjoy this series. It certainly makes me want to take a visit to Salem, Massachusetts someday!
October 25, 2023
Enjoyable enough to pass the time while working
February 27, 2018
Definitely hits the COZY paranormal category (checks cozy mystery genre boxes, maybe not such a mystery, has magical elements). Pleasant read, not written to be anything other than a fun story. Predictable. I'll go on to try book #1.
October 31, 2017
Grave Errors is another stellar entry to the Witch City series, a paranormal cozy. I've read and enjoyed all five books. Written with an easy charm, this story is solid and entertaining. Lee Barrett teaches video production at an adult education institute in Salem, MA. Her class project to expand the Halloween celebration with traditions from Day of the Dead embroil her and her class in finding out what happened to the sister of one of the students. Carol Perry's deft hand keeps the mystery intriguing and characters interesting. This series is one of my favorites.
Thanks to netgalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to netgalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 15, 2017
I love my cozy reads. From the cover I was hoping this would be a Halloween book but in stead, I got a post-Halloween dia de los Muertes book, which was okay too. The book is set in Salem, Mass. and centers around Lee Barrett and her TV production class, which is working on a project to extend the Halloween season. One of Lee’s pupils, Dorothy, wants to learn about investigative reporting by looking into her sister’s suspicious death and asks Lee to help. Lee pulls out all the stops and together with her boyfriend, aunt, cat, and best friend, they discover a link to another case and of course, ultimately crack the case.
I think I have been reading a few too many short cozies on Amazon prime lately because all of a sudden, this 364 page cozy seemed dragged out and long. The plot barely unfolded until about a quarter of the way in and by a third of the way I had things figured out. That said though, I did enjoy the book. There are plenty of twists and turns, kooky characters encountered along the way, Salem cemetery tours, suspicious suspects, death threats, and so much more.
Allow me to throw out that Grave Errors is the fifth book in the Witch City Mystery series and I have read none of the books before this. With that being said, I didn’t feel like I was missing any pieces or like I needed to go back or anything like that. There was a romance that had been established and family background dynamics which obviously had been talked about but I felt that there was just enough information to fill me in and keep the story moving. Oh, and there is a touch of paranormal-ness in the book but really not much. This is NOT really a witch-y book so don’t expect a ton of witchcraft or anything. Just a heads up.
I think I have been reading a few too many short cozies on Amazon prime lately because all of a sudden, this 364 page cozy seemed dragged out and long. The plot barely unfolded until about a quarter of the way in and by a third of the way I had things figured out. That said though, I did enjoy the book. There are plenty of twists and turns, kooky characters encountered along the way, Salem cemetery tours, suspicious suspects, death threats, and so much more.
Allow me to throw out that Grave Errors is the fifth book in the Witch City Mystery series and I have read none of the books before this. With that being said, I didn’t feel like I was missing any pieces or like I needed to go back or anything like that. There was a romance that had been established and family background dynamics which obviously had been talked about but I felt that there was just enough information to fill me in and keep the story moving. Oh, and there is a touch of paranormal-ness in the book but really not much. This is NOT really a witch-y book so don’t expect a ton of witchcraft or anything. Just a heads up.
October 3, 2017
You know what I've learned? I LOVE me a good ole paranormal mystery. My siblings and I grew up being told that the paranormal exists and were shocked as we got older, to discover that not everyone believed that. This book spoke right to that happy spot. Add in that I'm directly descended from Rebecca Nurse who was hung during the Salem Witch Trials, and there was no way that I was passing this book up.
Lee is a scryer, she sees visions in reflective surfaces and those visions have led to her involvement in more than one murder mystery. This book was no different. The case this time? One of her students was taking the class so that she could learn some skills to better help her solve her sisters accidental death because she felt that she had been murdered.
Though wildly predictable, this book was still really good. There were enough twists and turns to keep you engaged and enough paranormal to keep you interested. I'm super over her hesitant approach to her gift and even more so over Pete's reaction to it (how many times do we have to be told that you're still uncomfortable with your newfound ability? And how many times do we have to hear that Pete isn't the biggest fan of it either? I got it the first 9 times it was mentioned) Also? What kind of adult class lasts an entire day?
Get past all that (I remind myself that this is a cozy mystery author - not a keep you on the edge of suspense one) and it's a fun story that's well worth picking up. This was the 5th installment in this series and easily read as a stand alone. I CAN'T WAIT for the next one to come out.
Thank you to Netgalley for an advance review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Lee is a scryer, she sees visions in reflective surfaces and those visions have led to her involvement in more than one murder mystery. This book was no different. The case this time? One of her students was taking the class so that she could learn some skills to better help her solve her sisters accidental death because she felt that she had been murdered.
Though wildly predictable, this book was still really good. There were enough twists and turns to keep you engaged and enough paranormal to keep you interested. I'm super over her hesitant approach to her gift and even more so over Pete's reaction to it (how many times do we have to be told that you're still uncomfortable with your newfound ability? And how many times do we have to hear that Pete isn't the biggest fan of it either? I got it the first 9 times it was mentioned) Also? What kind of adult class lasts an entire day?
Get past all that (I remind myself that this is a cozy mystery author - not a keep you on the edge of suspense one) and it's a fun story that's well worth picking up. This was the 5th installment in this series and easily read as a stand alone. I CAN'T WAIT for the next one to come out.
Thank you to Netgalley for an advance review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2017
Spoiler Free Review:
This is the fourth in the series. I found this series a while back and have enjoyed reading it and watching the character grow. While it would be classed a paranormal it is not a witch mystery nor is the paranormal aspect overpowering. It does lend an interesting twist to plot and helps move the story along.
Carol has created an interesting setting (a school for the arts housed in a historic building) and populated it with interesting characters. Some humor, some pathos and some drama makes for an entertaining read. Well plotted, well edited, and well written. You will benefit from reading the series in order but each book is stand alone and has enough background information to be read as a stand alone.
This is the fourth in the series. I found this series a while back and have enjoyed reading it and watching the character grow. While it would be classed a paranormal it is not a witch mystery nor is the paranormal aspect overpowering. It does lend an interesting twist to plot and helps move the story along.
Carol has created an interesting setting (a school for the arts housed in a historic building) and populated it with interesting characters. Some humor, some pathos and some drama makes for an entertaining read. Well plotted, well edited, and well written. You will benefit from reading the series in order but each book is stand alone and has enough background information to be read as a stand alone.
March 9, 2024
I was not a fan of this book. I've never read so many descriptions of people watching the news in my life. The whole story felt extremely old fashioned. The story took place in Salem Ma, and all the characters used last names to refer to someone older than them which is not normal there.
Lee taught an adult class on investigative reporting which seemed to last all day? And two of the characters bowed twice which was just weird because they were not Japanese. The worst part was the dialogue. A real quote from the book: ' "The news says the storm is hitting the northeast . That's us", said Sharon.'
?? Honestly the way these people talk makes them sound not very smart. Not to mention the two (adults)twins in her class that could not say one thing on their own without finishing each other's sentences. What a mess.
I could go on and on about the weird choices made in the book. Like why does Lee not live with her "serious" boyfriend, and why does she not knock him the hell out when he tells her to stop playing "girl detective"? I guess the real mystery is the books we read along the way...
Lee taught an adult class on investigative reporting which seemed to last all day? And two of the characters bowed twice which was just weird because they were not Japanese. The worst part was the dialogue. A real quote from the book: ' "The news says the storm is hitting the northeast . That's us", said Sharon.'
?? Honestly the way these people talk makes them sound not very smart. Not to mention the two (adults)twins in her class that could not say one thing on their own without finishing each other's sentences. What a mess.
I could go on and on about the weird choices made in the book. Like why does Lee not live with her "serious" boyfriend, and why does she not knock him the hell out when he tells her to stop playing "girl detective"? I guess the real mystery is the books we read along the way...
September 1, 2017
Princess Fuzzypants here:
I am enjoying this series, not just because there is a pawsome cat- there are two in this book- but I do like Lee and her furriends. Lee discovers that one of her students this semester is the sister of a girl who recently died. The police determined it was just a tragic accident but the sister is convinced it is murder.
The fact that Lee is receiving mysterious threats and one of the men trailing her turns up dead convinces everyone that it is murder. As a class project, Lee and her students decided to hone their investigative journalist skills by looking at all the clues. Unfortunately for Lee, that means the murderer is not happy with her snooping.
It is a fine line in cozies where the heroine needs to be involved in the investigation but it bothers me when she does something really stupid. This character manages to walk the wire successfully, maintaining suspense without becoming absurd. It makes me want to continue to read the series.
I give it fou purrs and two paws up.
I am enjoying this series, not just because there is a pawsome cat- there are two in this book- but I do like Lee and her furriends. Lee discovers that one of her students this semester is the sister of a girl who recently died. The police determined it was just a tragic accident but the sister is convinced it is murder.
The fact that Lee is receiving mysterious threats and one of the men trailing her turns up dead convinces everyone that it is murder. As a class project, Lee and her students decided to hone their investigative journalist skills by looking at all the clues. Unfortunately for Lee, that means the murderer is not happy with her snooping.
It is a fine line in cozies where the heroine needs to be involved in the investigation but it bothers me when she does something really stupid. This character manages to walk the wire successfully, maintaining suspense without becoming absurd. It makes me want to continue to read the series.
I give it fou purrs and two paws up.
August 20, 2019
2019 bk 260. The next in the Witch City Mysteries - This is another well crafted mystery. Who did it was not as easy to spot. Centered on bringing the Day of the Dead activities to Salem, Mass as part of a craft project, this book shows a little of what is involved in creating an event and the side activities leading up to it. Lee's class this time includes two former police officers and a woman from Alaska looking for the person who murdered her sister - a death that has been closed as an accidental drowning. It wasn't. Lee and her class stumble on and over various clues until Pete and the Police Chief are convinced to re-open the case. I enjoyed this read and am looking forward to more in the series.
September 21, 2020
In an attempt to keep my reviews to the point, I started using just the stars and including the key below, plus a small note when I have something I want to add.
1 star - Not my cup of tea. I may not have even finished it.
2 stars - I stuck it out, but will probably not bother with the author again.
3 stars - I liked it, but it was nothing to write home about. I will probably read more from that author.
4 stars - It was a good book, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
5 stars - It was awesome! My heart is doing a happy dance. I'm looking for more books from this author, and telling all my friends.
1 star - Not my cup of tea. I may not have even finished it.
2 stars - I stuck it out, but will probably not bother with the author again.
3 stars - I liked it, but it was nothing to write home about. I will probably read more from that author.
4 stars - It was a good book, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
5 stars - It was awesome! My heart is doing a happy dance. I'm looking for more books from this author, and telling all my friends.
December 21, 2017
Grave errors by carol j perry.
For residents of Salem, Massachusetts, the day after Halloween brings empty candy wrappers, sagging pumpkins, and a community-wide identity crisis. That is, until Lee Barrett’s TV production class suggests extending the spooky season with the traditional Mexican celebration Dia de Los Muertos. But when the students discover not all of Salem’s dead are resting in peace, the post-October blues don’t seem so bad after all . . .
A fantastic read. Loved the story and the plot. I love these cozy reads. 5*.
For residents of Salem, Massachusetts, the day after Halloween brings empty candy wrappers, sagging pumpkins, and a community-wide identity crisis. That is, until Lee Barrett’s TV production class suggests extending the spooky season with the traditional Mexican celebration Dia de Los Muertos. But when the students discover not all of Salem’s dead are resting in peace, the post-October blues don’t seem so bad after all . . .
A fantastic read. Loved the story and the plot. I love these cozy reads. 5*.
December 20, 2020
The series continues to be cosy, light, and fun.
Do I still feel like Lee's teaching job is totally boring? Yes, but it works.
It's a bit amusing how Lee (and her aunt) seem completely free to dispose of their time in whatever way they want. Even when they are "busy" they are never too busy to poke their noses into thing they really should leave alone.
Oh, well. Part of the fun.
This book had a real classic basket case of a villain. It was 100% over the top, but that too is part of the fun. When the baddies go crazy - they really go crrrrrraaaazy.
Do I still feel like Lee's teaching job is totally boring? Yes, but it works.
It's a bit amusing how Lee (and her aunt) seem completely free to dispose of their time in whatever way they want. Even when they are "busy" they are never too busy to poke their noses into thing they really should leave alone.
Oh, well. Part of the fun.
This book had a real classic basket case of a villain. It was 100% over the top, but that too is part of the fun. When the baddies go crazy - they really go crrrrrraaaazy.
January 3, 2018
Not often I get caught up on a series but since this is one of my favorites it's always pretty easy to just jump right in.
Lee Barrett teaches production students how to get the information they need for a story. They have decided to work on a Day of the Dead event and go about trying to see if they can get permission from the man who runs the school. One of her students ask her if she might help her look into her sister's death. The police say it's suicide but she doesn't believe them and wants to prove that something happened, so Lee takes a look at things. Pete her boyfriend says there is not much to look at that it was a classic case of suicide.
The more that they look into things though it becomes pretty clear that something else might have happened. When Lee is threatened and another body pops up the chief reopens the case. Lee sees things in shiny surfaces and sometimes it takes a while to piece together what the visions are trying to tell her. Pete isn't comfortable with her talking about her visions but he is starting to realize that sometimes they have good information.
The novel has a fun cast of characters my favorite being Lee's aunt. I really like Lee and Pete as they make a good couple, but in this one I think it is the twins that stole the show. I can't remember their names but they are taking Lee's class and use to work in law enforcement so they love helping out.
There are a few suspects as Lee starts to figure things out and it gets a bit dangerous. I thought it had a pretty good mystery and I had it pretty much figured out but had the wrong bad guy...lol. It's a great series and I recommend it to anyone who loves cozies.
Lee Barrett teaches production students how to get the information they need for a story. They have decided to work on a Day of the Dead event and go about trying to see if they can get permission from the man who runs the school. One of her students ask her if she might help her look into her sister's death. The police say it's suicide but she doesn't believe them and wants to prove that something happened, so Lee takes a look at things. Pete her boyfriend says there is not much to look at that it was a classic case of suicide.
The more that they look into things though it becomes pretty clear that something else might have happened. When Lee is threatened and another body pops up the chief reopens the case. Lee sees things in shiny surfaces and sometimes it takes a while to piece together what the visions are trying to tell her. Pete isn't comfortable with her talking about her visions but he is starting to realize that sometimes they have good information.
The novel has a fun cast of characters my favorite being Lee's aunt. I really like Lee and Pete as they make a good couple, but in this one I think it is the twins that stole the show. I can't remember their names but they are taking Lee's class and use to work in law enforcement so they love helping out.
There are a few suspects as Lee starts to figure things out and it gets a bit dangerous. I thought it had a pretty good mystery and I had it pretty much figured out but had the wrong bad guy...lol. It's a great series and I recommend it to anyone who loves cozies.
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