Tangible Spirits

by Becki Willis

Dead is dead. Gera Stapleton does not believe in ghosts.

In the infamous town of Jerome, Arizona, a once-friendly ghost named Mac has reportedly embarked on a petty crime spree, and Gera is there to investigate. Has her journalism career come down to this? How can she accurately report a story on something she does not even believe exists?

Now there has been a murder, and the townspeople are content to blame Mac for this, too. Determined to find the real killer – because there are no such things as ghosts, after all – Gera sets out to unravel the truth.

In a town filled with oddities, Gera encounters a sexy hotel owner, an ornery sheriff, a helpful old woman, and a bad-tempered bartender. The more she digs, the more danger she brings to herself.

After making a startling discovery, Gera questions not only her beliefs, but her very sanity, as well. Is it possible? Could there truly be such a thing as these tangible spirits, after all?

Genres: Fiction, Ghosts, Paranormal, Mystery, Suspense, Romance, Cozy Mystery

335 pages, Paperback

Published May 2, 2017

About the author

Best-selling indie and hybrid author Becki Willis loves crafting stories with believable characters in believable situations. Many of her stories stem from her own personal experiences. (No worries; she's never actually murdered anyone).

When she’s not plotting danger and adventure for her imaginary friends, Becki enjoys reading, spending time with her family, unraveling a good mystery (real or imagined), dark chocolate, and a good cup of coffee.

A professed history geek, Becki often weaves pieces of the past into her novels. Family is a central theme in her stories and in her life. She and her husband enjoy traveling but believe coming home to their Texas ranch is the best part of any trip.

Becki has won numerous awards—including two Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Awards, InD’Tale’s coveted RONE, and been named Finalist for two Claymore Awards—but feels the real compliments come from her readers. Drop in for an e-visit anytime at beckiwillis.ccp@gmail.com, or www.beckiwillis.com.

Reviews

[T.J. Wray · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book sounded so promising. When I read that it was about sending a young reporter into a known (ghost town), to investigate a murder.

The first half of the book is very slow, almost boring. I just about gave up on the book and didn't finish it.

But I am so glad that I did finish it. The second half is great. It's a ghost story/love story, wrapped in a murder mystery.

I believe you too will enjoy this book...TJ

[Tabatha Pope · Rating 5 out of 5]

coming soon

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Tangible Spirits” takes the reader to Jerome, Arizona for a beautifully written story and informational trip as well.

Read full review in the 2017 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Kristine Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the very beginning, I knew I would enjoy author Becki Willis's writing style. In Tangible Spirits, she puts readers straight into the setting and into the head of our main character, Gera, who is clearly unhappy with her latest reporting assignment. Willis uses snippets of thought and sentences that fit perfectly with the way a reporter's mind would collect details. I also love the parallels drawn between the changing scenery and Gera's changing mood. As her surroundings provoke memories, Gera softens once she allows them to come. It's an excellent vehicle for readers to get some insight into Gera's past.

"Life was simply too precious to discard with the cessation of breath.

One of the things that piqued my interest when I first saw Tangible Spirits (in addition to the FABULOUS book cover) was the paranormal element. Gera is a skeptic, and readers will enjoy her logic and challenges to the thinking of the people in this allegedly haunted small town. It's fun to piggy-back on her experiences on the ghost tours and semi-creepy encounters and draw your own conclusions. Even though readers are likely to figure things out faster than Gera does, it doesn't really take away from the unfolding of the fascinating multiple story lines and sprinkling of history that enrich the story. Beware the ends of chapters because you won't be able to stop reading there. The hooks! The cliffhangers!

Tangible Spirits has all the elements that cozy story lovers enjoy - there's murder and mystery and a bit of mayhem, but it's countered with feel-good moments and a steamy romance that -- in true cozy fashion -- leaves the details behind closed doors. (YAYYYY!) The book has a scattering of typos and comma errors that most won’t notice, but none detracted from the quality of the story and Willis’s ability to tell a tale. I see why this book is an award winner.

I don’t know if there will be another adventure for Gera and the cast of characters (both otherworldly and not) who surround her, but I sure hope so. Either way, I will be seeking out other titles by author Becki Willis, who is clearly a gifted writer.

Thank you to Lone Star Book Blog Tours and the author for providing me a print copy in exchange for my honest opinion – the only kind I give. This full review and other special features on Hall Ways Blog

[B. Sinsational · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely fabolous Story! With wit, ingenuity and skill your drawn into a captivating tale of ghosts, murders and romance. The awesome way the tale is spun, the mischievousness and wit found in conversations, and events, makes for a highly compelling and captivating intrigue, where you dont have the answers until the very last page. Its not one of those action/ highspeed cheap thrills 1-0-1 books, but this type of books has no need for that, they have so many other merits. It's well written, composed, and genuinly unique. Plus; It has everything one can ask for from a good book, ranging from humor, clever dialogue, Hot hunks and HEA!
I will most definitely look for more amazing books from this talented Author.
Becki Willis

[Bobbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tangible Spirits by Becki Willis is a great book, about paranormal activity or is it really, murder, high suspense, along with some romance. It begins with reporter Gera going to investigate ghostly sightings in a town called Jerome where it seems almost everybody in the town believes in ghosts. When she arrives there, she finds that there's been a murder and many think it was ghost Mac who killed the person. I recommend it to the reading community..

[Aly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who doesn't love a great ghost story? This book has so much more in it for us to enjoy. It was a little slow in the beginning for me but once the story built up it was unstoppable. Lots of twist and turns and great characters in this book. I do believe in ghosts so this book was a fun read. *This book was given to me for free at my request from Netgalley and I provided this voluntary review.*

[Debbie Ament · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read several books now by Becki Willis, and I have enjoyed every one of them. Tangible Spirits was a bit slow to start, but it did not take long for the story to pick up. It is nice to read a book with a good story line that has no cursing or explicit love scenes. I did receive an advance reader copy for review purposes. To tell the truth I like the style of Becki and would purchased this book any ways. I was not at all disappointed.

[Bev · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was very interesting due to the fact that the writer actually went to Jerome AZ and included some of the history in the book. It is about a small mining town way up in the mountains of Arizona. Legend has it that there is a ghost that roams the town, but he is a good ghost and helps people.Then there is a murder of a townsperson, and everyone is quick to blame the ghost. Gera, first off, doesn't believe in ghosts. Second she is a bit ticked off that her boss would send her to this god forsaken place. As Gera is staying the the Dove hotel, she goes on a few tours, and does some investigating on her own. In the end she learns the true meaning of tangible spirits. What a great story!!!! I received ARC of this story. The review is entirely voluntary.

[Jill Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

----------
"I've seen things. Heard things, felt things. Sensed things. Things that cannot be readily explained. Call them what you may, but we have tangible spirits among us."
----------

This was a fun ghost story-cum-mystery. I will admit, I saw the surprise twist at the end AND the whodunit coming from a mile away, but that didn't take away from the enjoyment of the story at all... I found myself drawn in by the colorful descriptions of the townspeople and the evocative setting. The plot was not exactly edge-of-my-seat tense, but that is not to say that it was predictable. Rather, I'd say it was comfortable - there were enough unique spins to keep me engaged and entertained. Gera is a compelling protagonist, spunky and full of a rather insatiable curiosity that was fun to fall into. The supporting characters were a broad mix of personalities and quirks. At times a few felt cliched, but then something would happen to throw a wrench into things that just big enough to keep me from rolling my eyes (or if I did, I rolled them with a smile rather than a grimace, as is too often the case). All in all this was a fun, engaging, easy and enjoyable read.

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

this is a good story, if you like suspense and some romance you will enjoy reading the story. the ghosts add to the story. i was given a copy of the story, but i am giving an honest review. i have read other book by becki and enjoyed them. i did not know if i would like this one but said i would try it. i am glad it did. try it i learned alot about the area and about the law that was passed to take all the gold the people had and gave them paper money back and then the money was devalued. it is an interesting story with the backround info.

[Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Different Type of Ghost Stoy

If you enjoy strong female protagonists, then this is the book for you. The main character stuck to her beliefs until the end. The author plausibly unwound such strong beliefs in such a manner that made me want to reread the entire book

[Aurora Batty · Rating 3 out of 5]

More like a 3.5
Not your run of the mill paranormal romance. Its completely fiction but still makes you wonder. Its perfectly lovely!
For my full review check out here: https://aurorabattysbooks.wordpress.c...

[Clueless Gent · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tangible Spirits is not your typical ghost story. Or even your atypical ghost story. It is a story about greed, love, and an entire town’s willingness to believe in the possibility of life after death. For this reader, that’s all it took for this story to completely draw me in.

At face value, that may not seem like a great recipe for a ghost story, or any story for that matter. But that’s where the magic comes in! The way Becki Willis intertwined greed, love and belief made for a very, very compelling story!

*The Setting of Tangible Spirits*

This story takes place almost entirely in present day Jerome, Arizona. Not only does this town actually exist, but it is heralded as a ghost town! Arizona Leisure reports, “Jerome, Arizona is a ghost town alive and well. From wickedly wild to wildly artistic.”

I’m always fascinated when an author can so keenly craft fact with fiction, as Becki Willis did in Jerome, Arizona. Her descriptions of the town are quite vivid. For instance, one of the key landmarks in the story is a dilapidated building in the center of town. I cannot imagine a building in this condition being easy to describe, yet Willis provided an imaginary view so realistic that I could clearly see the important parts in my mind’s eye.

(If you're interested, I came across a cool YouTube video titled, Ghost Town! Jerome Arizona.)

*The Determined Protagonist*

I think all the key traits of a good protagonist can be found in reporter Gera Stapleton. She is confident and extremely determined.  As an outsider only visiting the town, she is clearly at a disadvantage from the antagonist(s) when it comes to navigating the dangerous, sloping switchback roads or knowing who to trust.

As with any really good story, things are never as they seem. Gera did not want this assignment - writing about a helpful ghost, of all things!  But when she arrives in town mere hours after a murder, her interest is piqued. When she learns the most likely suspect is the ghost, which she does not believe exists, she puts herself on a mission to get to the real truth behind the killing.

*Technically Speaking*

I’ll admit that as I neared the end, I began to read more quickly.  But in the entire novel, I found only a single SPAG issue.  Kudos to Becki and her editing team!

The character arcs are clever, but the pacing is insane! (In a good way.) Seldom do I read a story where I have to fight my eyes trying to skip ahead to see who done it!  Yes, this occurred at the climax, but it was just so thrilling! By the time the climactic chapter ended, I felt like I was out of breath.

Now for the question that all would-be readers want to know: is there really a ghost in Jerome, Arizona? Hmm…. I can’t remember. I guess you’ll just have to read it for yourself.

[Kelly Well Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most days I think the internet is a wonderful thing, especially for an information-junkie like myself. At the touch of my fingers I can find out the answer to just about any question I can think of. But lately I’ve been thinking about how the internet has taken away a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world. As a child, I would lie on the grass in my yard, stare up at the sky and wonder about things like: how far away is the sun? why is the sky blue? how are clouds formed? Today, I would just Google it. But there are still some questions that cannot be answered by Google, and reading Tangible Spirits by Becki Willis reminded me that there are still many unknowns that are worth thinking about and pondering.

“There are things in life that are beyond explanation. The smell of the mountain air after a spring rain. The beauty of a sunset beyond those hills yonder. The translucent prisms of a rainbow across the clear Arizona sky...And the eternal and often tangible spirits of life.”

This quote, from one of the most interesting characters in the book, addresses that sense of the unexplainable and mysterious un-knowing that I miss in the internet age. But all the technology in the world still cannot tell us if “Dead is dead,” or whether ghosts really do, or do not, exist.

In Tangible Spirits, the main character is Gera (short for “Geraldine”) Stapleton, an ambitious journalist who got a bit of a late start to her hard-won career, and she is eager to make a name for herself. Imagine her consternation when she is assigned to write a story about Jerome, Arizona, a town of less than 500 residents, where ghosts are the main attraction - especially one named “Mac,” who has gone from friendly to fiendish lately.

As someone who absolutely does not believe in ghosts, Gera will be in for a surprise when, shortly after arriving in town, she happens upon a murder scene - and the main suspect is Mac, the ghost.

Filled with well-developed characters, snappy dialogue, a touch of romance, and interesting historical descriptions of the very real town of Jerome, Arizona, Becki Willis has written an excellent paranormal mystery that will keep you turning the pages. Although I did figure out a few little mysteries along the way, there were a number of unexpected surprises that I did not see coming. Other readers must feel the same way, because Tangible Spirits was named the Best Paranormal Fiction for 2018 by the Association of Texas Authors!

This book led me to wonder, again, about the bigger mysteries in life, and reminded me that I have also “seen things. Heard things, felt things. Sensed things. Things that cannot be readily explained.” As one of the characters in the book says: "Call them what you may, but we have tangible spirits among us.”

Enjoy this engaging mystery, but be warned: you will be looking out of the corner of your eye at unexplained shadows for a few days!

I received a copy of Tangible Spirits from Lone Star Book Blog Tours and the author in exchange for my honest review of the book.

[Seraphia Bunny · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tangible Spirits by Becki Willis is a book about a young woman reporter who is assigned to report on a story concerning a ghost committing murders. Gera is skeptical of this story even having any substance at all and is really not that engaged in trying to accomplish it. She'd rather be chasing down a piece that she'd be more interested in. On the way to the town she thinks of all the different people who would be better at this story and would actually enjoy it. Let's just say her name is far at the bottom of the list but this is what she's assigned. The town is a curious place but she still views it as a fluff story piece until things start happening and the people of the town blame the ghost who haunts it. Gera now believes that it is up to her to defend the ghost and find out who the real killer is. Plus, she's really hoping that this will boost her career and give her the break she needs. Question is...will she succeed or will she fail? Did Marc the ghost really commit this crime or someone who is more natural than super?
Tangible Spirits by Becki Willis is the first book that I have ever read of hers. I am a fan of ghost type stories and this being a paranormal mystery sounded like something that I would definitely enjoy diving into. Gera is an interesting character and her being a reporter, who is a skeptic concerning the spirit world, made me want to see where this would lead her. Especially in light of the fact that several in her family believe in the spirit realm. So as Gera delves into this mystery and starts encountering situations and secrets I really got to see her skepticism fade. She's an interesting character who really goes at it when things get going.
For me this story starts off a bit slow and I have trouble getting into it for a few chapters but once the story gets in gear I really started enjoying it. I guess I would have liked it if the story had started in the town that Gera was going to or even around when she got the assignment so that we could be in her head and know what her thoughts were in that moment. All in all this is an engaging paranormal mystery that really unique elements.
I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. I like it when a book engages me either right from the beginning or within the first few chapters. This book manages to capture my interest but only after more than a few chapters. If you are into mysteries and the paranormal this is a book to check out. I'm sure you'll enjoy.

[Christena · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Oh, great,” Gera grumbled aloud. “They’re even blaming that on the poor guy. Like a ghost from the thirties even knows what the internet is.”

First – Jerome, Arizona is a historical mining town that I fell in love with while traveling that I often wish I’d gone back to visit, but when you’re traveling with dogs it’s hard to make stops for a proper visit.
Second – I love ghost stories.
Third – I thankful for being exposed to new authors I would never try on my own. Thanks, Lone Star Lit.
Fourth – I deeply appreciate authors who autograph their review copy books.
Fifth – I have a predilection for books that will make me remember them long after they become a part of my growing library.
Sixth – the cover is the bomb.

Becki Willis has created a truly unforgettable tale in Tangible Spirits that encapsulates ghosts, murders, attempted murder, and romance. The latter is just enough that it does not get sappy.
Set in Jerome, Arizona, reporter Gera Stapleton is sent to cover a story on the ghostly town of Jerome. What she encounters upon her arrival is a murder and that murder leads her to investigate it, along with discovering if ghosts are actually real.

If you believe in ghosts or have had ghostly encounters, then you soon realize that Willis’ story crafting is truly believable when it comes to the ghosts revealed in Tangible Spirits. You also come to understand that gossip is indeed the universal language of small towns and that the power of suggestion is very real.

You can tell Willis’ did her research on this book on many levels, but incorporating unknown history that I did not know into this book makes it even more exceptional. Do you know about Executive Order 6102 under President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1933? Well – you’ll learn about it in this book.

“Dead is dead, except when it comes to love. And love alone had the power to outlast death.”

Tangible Spirits weaves a story around Gera and you’re left wondering who’s real, who’s not, and who committed murder(s). Brilliantly written, the story takes you on a journey in the span of ten days that will leave you wondering if perchance Willis has a sequel planned to this story. If not – then I’ll look forward to reading more books by her.

Thanks, Becki for one of the most enjoyable books so far for me in 2018.

[Max Knight · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes you just want to read a book for pure enjoyment; sit back, relax, and escape into a thoroughly captivating story that will keep you engrossed from start to finish. Author Becki Willis has written exactly that! Tangible Spirits combines history, romance, murder, mystery and paranormal activity into a totally enjoyable and heart warming tale.

The setting is Jerome, Arizona (an actual old mining town turned tourist attraction because of ghost sightings) where protagonist Gera Stapleton risks her own life to determine whether trickery or actual spirits are at play in a series of mischievous acts and murder.

Most of Jerome’s citizens are convinced of life beyond the grave. A skeptic herself, Gera isn’t pleased that her magazine editor has sent her there to write an article on the spirits that supposedly haunt the town.

One spirit in particular is believed to have watched over the townspeople throughout the years but now Mac, who wears a long coat and top hat, is being blamed for the murder of a prominent citizen. Gera arrives at the crime scene just after the murder’s occurrence. No longer willing to just write some “fluff” piece on ghosts, she is determined to prove the killer mortal and publish a more meaty journalistic article. Not everyone is happy with her nosing around and asking questions… certainly not the local sheriff, the bank executive, the barkeeper, or the murderer – whoever that might be!

Vera does encounter an older woman named Minnie with whom she enjoys listening to the history and secrets associated with the town, and she falls hard for the hotel owner, Jake. Yet the property and legends of long-lost gold may be her undoing. Will Gera discover the identity of the murderer? Will she find out that there really are unexplained phenomenon? Will she find happiness with Jake or open doors that could result in her own death? No spoilers here, but readers just may discover for themselves that the power of love transcends even death and lasts forever.

[Teresa L Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

***** I received this book as an advanced reader copy for review purposes. *****


Tangible Spirits, by Becki Willis, is about a reporter named Gera, who is sent to Jerome, Arizona to write a piece about the ghosts that roam its streets. Gera believes that “Dead is dead.” How is she to write about something she doesn't even believe in? Although the story starts a little slow, it doesn't take long for it to kick into high gear. As soon as Gera arrives in Jerome, she learns there has been a murder. The main and most logical suspect.....Mac, the resident friendly ghost turned bad. Gera sees this as a perfect opportunity to prove herself worthy of covering more than a local ghost legend. Her investigation takes her on a wild ride. Gera's spunk often walks the line of possible carelessness. Her carelessness and sassy attitude give the story the spice needed for all the action that takes place from her arrival in Jerome through all the twists and turns to the end. I hated putting it down and couldn't wait to know more!

Becki scatters bits of truth about Jerome, AZ history throughout the tale. She traveled to Jerome a couple times where she participated in a ghost tour to add to the realism of the setting. Her travels added much depth to the setting of Jerome being set into a mountain side. This mountain side setting is built upon throughout the story making Jerome and all of Gera's adventures come to life.

This was my first time reading one of Becki's books. I was thoroughly engaged in the story and the characters. I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a good mystery/thriller. I look forward to reading more from Becki Willis.

[Jenn Z at That's What She's Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest and thoughtful review.

Blending elements of paranormal, cozy, and romance, this story is just multi-layered enough to satisfy any reader as it weaves together into an intriguing and well plotted mystery. While there was a certain degree of predictability that worked to downplay the tension, ultimately the unique twists created an engaging and thoroughly entertaining story from beginning to end.

I was instantly drawn into the story with Willis’ effortless writing style that shines through with Gera's narration as it vividly captures this colorful community and its eclectic cast of characters. Her descriptions create such “tangible” and lifelike personalities that jump off the page, while simultaneously pulling you into such an endearing and realistic setting that is only further enhanced by the scattering of historical truth into the narrative. Gera’s journalism background and investigative instincts give her amateur sleuthing skills authenticity and works perfectly as a guide for readers to fall into. It was an absolute treat to move through the story in her company and draw from her insatiable curiosity as she tries to discover the truth.

As is the tendency with cozies, a series is definitely in order that sheds light into other paranormal activity and tests Gera’s skepticism in much the same way that Scully came to believe through her work with the X-Files! I would also be very interested to see how the romantic interactions play out as the adventures continue. But while I wait for what I hope will be more, I’ll now be taking an excited look at the author’s backlist.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gera is on assignment to go to Jerome, Arizona to write an article for her boss. She doesn't want to do it as she doesn't believe in ghosts. When she finally arrives at the hotel she has been booked into by her boss, she is dismayed that everyone seems to believe in ghosts. She still can't believe that Jerome's population believes a ghost murdered a man. Even though her article is suppose to be about the hauntings in Jerome, she thinks the murder (if it really is a murder) would be a much better article. As she investigates, mysterious things happen right from the beginning of her hotel room. What happened? When on investigation, she is nearly killed several times. The first time was when a bartender put a little something in her drink. As she drove to her appointment from the bar, she almost runs off the road as she is having vision and thinking problems. Fortunately, she survives and continues on her investigation. Will she be able to stay safe and write her article? Who is the elderly lady she visits with in the garden while drinking her coffee?

The story is a delightful mystery with paranormal activity in ways I didn't expect. There is also a sweet yet surprising romance touch in the story. I couldn't stop reading and thinking about this novel! It is written so well, that the author has someone who will be reading her other books. Don't miss out! I voluntarily read and review this book.

[Aldis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tangible Spirits by Becki Willis was a fun, fast read. Gera Stapleton, a young reporter hoping for her first big break, gets sent into small town Jerome, Arizona, for a fluff piece. As she pulls into town, she passes a crime scene - someone murdered Abe Cunningham in an abandoned building. Gera starts investigating and finds out that everyone thinks the local ghost, Mac, has killed Abe. He has also burgled some of the townspeople lately. No one knows why - he was always a kind and protective spirit.
Gera goes to the Dove Hotel for her stay, and meets Millie, a local old woman, who tells her the history of the town. About the Sliding Jail, the Cuban Queen Bordello, the Old Bartlett Hotel, and many of the townspeople. Jake, the handsome young owner of the hotel, tells her about the haunted history of the Dove, with many resident ghosts. Jerome itself hosts many ghosts besides old Mac.
As Gera investigates, she is drugged, almost wrecks her car, and gets menaced. She finds out about the lost gold legend. Through all of this, Gera finds herself courted by Jake, and the town banker. This story was a fun read for me - Jerome, AZ, and the landmarks named above are real, though the author has created the story. Do you believe in ghosts? Can ghosts murder and rob? Read this to find out! All I know is Becki Willis pulled me rifht into her world.....

[Crittermom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tangible Spirits is a light paranormal cozy that is a pleasure to read. It isn’t one of the standard witches/shifters/psychic (which can be very good in their own right) mysteries. Instead the mystery is set in a small tourist town that is reportedly haunted. The paranormal component is important but not overwhelming.
Gera Stapleton is a no nonsense reporter just starting out. A fluff piece about a town ghost who has turned against residents is exactly what she doesn’t want to write. Gera doesn’t believe in ghosts and can’t understand how an entire town could believe in their existence. As she arrives, however, a body is discovered. Murder is far more exciting to cover. Strangely, the town believes the ghost is responsible but Gera knows there is a very human culprit.
Tangible Spirits is a well done paranormal cozy. The romantic chemistry between Jake and Gera is sweet and believable. I also liked the story behind Jerome and its ghosts. It is clearly a charming tourist town. Whether it is meant to stand alone or to serve as an introduction to a series, Tangible Spirits is a sweet cozy mystery that is a delight.
4 / 5
I received a copy of Tangible Spirits from the publisher and Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
-Crittermom

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book did not turn out to be what I thought it was but... it was still a great story. It was more a mystery and romance then a paranormal book, even though there were some ghosts. The book moved a little slow for me especially at the start but it was still a book didn't want to put down. I liked that the book did not need cursing or steamy sex scenes. Yes there was sex but it was just hinted at and you used your imagination to fill in the blanks. The book has a lot going for it, ghosts, mystery, intrigue, hot guys, romance, murder and more.

Gera is a reporter and has come to Jerome AZ in search of ghosts. Being a stoic non believer this will be a hard story for her to write. When she arrives she is drawn into the Twilight Zone at least to her. The whole town believes in ghosts so much so that when Abe Cunningham is murdered everyone lays the blame on Mac. Mac is the towns most popular ghost.

Gera not believing in ghosts decides to turn her ghost article into a murder mystery. Soon she feels like she is being followed. Someone knifes her car tire, she is drugged by the snake loving bartender. She falls for the hotel she is staying ats owner, the town banker falls for her and so much more. The book may be a little slow moving but it does have a lot going on it.

[N.W. Moors · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gera Stapleton has been sent to Jerome, Arizona to write a story about ghosts for her magazine. Gera is not a believer, and she's appalled when she stumbles onto a murder scene where it appears the perpetrator is one of the town's ghosts. She decides to investigate this new angle to her story and starts to question people in the town.
There are three attractive single men in town to help her in her quest: the Clark-Kentish hotel owner, the elegant president of the bank, and the rough-and-ready sheriff.
This is a fun cozy mystery. The author has introduced a number of interesting characters as well as suspects galore. Gera is cute, determined to get to the bottom of the many mysteries; with ghosts all over town, there's more than just the murder. The background history is also interwoven into the story in a natural way that made me want to know more about FDR and the gold act, for just one example.
If you're looking for a cozy mystery with a bit of romance, then Tangible Spirits is for you. I am providing an honest review in return for a copy of the book from Netgalley and the author.

[Deirdra · Rating 5 out of 5]

A "Tangible" and long lasting pleasure arriving as school begins!

Oh, how I love this writer! She has freshened the genre of ghost stories by her unusual point of view. I enjoyed having the story be about a whole town and its people, versus just one person. The setting of the wild West was a "draw", as another New England heavy sweater "yarn" would have left me "cold". If you're smiling, that is just how you'll feel after gobbling this fast read. I remembered Becki Willis from Forgotten Boxes. She has more than one story to tell. I knew I had to read this story when I discovered it was a good ghost gone bad. My brain screeched to a halt and immediately backed up. How often do ghosts go bad? Is that how it usually works? AND it takes place in a Western town? Plus the ghost wears a neat hat. This was a review book for me, but I was planning on paying. Absolutely worth your dollars! Becki Willis has quietly spun gold twice for me. Get your Tangible Spirits today!

[Bob Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating Supernatural Love Story

This has been the single most enjoyable love story I've ever read. The characters (Gera - reporter and main character, Jake-hotel owner that Gera gets booked at for a ghost story, Lucy- hotel worker, Grant- disgruntled banker and if course Minnie) all have such wonderfully developed characters.
For a reporter that doesn't believe in ghosts to be assigned an article too do on ghosts where nearly the entire town believes in ghosts it is the biggest mismatch one could ever imagine. But, as the story unfolds, Gera winds up using her unrelenting reporter's detective skills too uncover how much this town has no ghosts because they don't exist. The twists and turns are very nice and the action as tyre story hits its climax towards the very ending (although somewhat predictable) is so rewarding and heart warming. I recommend this book highly and have now added Becki as a favorite author and will be checking out her other works. I was going to give it 4stars but the heart warming nature of the story pushed me over the edge and earned a 5 star rating from me.
Way to go Becki

[Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It was a lot of fun to read. Having all kind of adventures, Gera traveled to the mountains to do a story on a little town known for ghosts. She drives up winding cliff trails, investigates a murder, stays in a historic old hotel positioned right against the mountain, starts hearing supposed ghosts...and so on. She makes several new friends and then someone is determined to get her away from the town and its mysteries. I totally got into this story and couldn't put it down. I loved the suspense of waiting to see what happens with Gera, and it was quite intriguing when she goes after her story, doing research on the town and its people. I felt there were funny moments and heartwarming parts all through the book, with crazy accidents and heart-pounding danger at times, too. I can't wait to read more by this author, and hope she continues the story of Gera and her man in their wonderful town on the mountain. I highly recommend Tangible Spirits!

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very fun story about a reporter that is trying to make a name for herself. She is sent to a small town in Arizona to investigate and report on a ghost that has been friendly and helpful, but has now seemed to be creating acts of vandalism. Just as she gets to town, the ghost has apparently killed one of the upstanding citizens of the town. Since she doesn’t believe in ghosts, she must prove a human did the dastardly deed. This story is very well written. And the plot just flows pulling you with it. There is enough action to keep your interest, but not so much as to exhaust you. The characters were all well developed. The author did a wonderful job in portraying a true non believer’s thoughts and actions in the heroine. I loved Minnie. She was absolutely adorable. I wouldn’t mind her for a friend at all. And I truly detested Grant. This was a very enjoyable story and I certainly do recommend this to everyone.

[Shari Ring Wolf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice tribute to Jerome, Arizona

I live near Jerome. The author did a wonderful job describing this place that really must be experienced to appreciate.

Excellent writing, beautiful descriptions and good story. Talented blending of skepticism and belief. The story has touched of supernatural whimsy without going too "woo-woo".

Professional, clean writing from an author who knows spelling and grammar! Those skills made reading enjoyable and allowed me to immerse myself in the story, not needing to stop and try to figure out what the author is trying to say or trying to figure out the author's own local dialect. (Oh how that drives me bonkers!!)

This author seems to have done her local research, too. She is clear on what is fact and what is fiction for the sake of the story.

All that technical stuff aside, this is a nice mystery romance set in a beautiful area.