What do you think?
Rate this book
The Maid, Mother, and Crone #1
The Innocent Dead
Natalie Taylor, High Priestess of the coven in quirky Giles, Massachusetts, just wants to stop seeing dead people. With all the elements needed for the spell now in place, she can finally complete the ritual to push the ghosts away.
But when a body is found in Corey Woods, giving her the opportunity to prove that her long-lost love wasn't guilty of the identical murders years ago, some of the answers she needs to clear him lie on the far side of the veil. She's going to need help from both the living and the dead to catch the real killer.
But when a body is found in Corey Woods, giving her the opportunity to prove that her long-lost love wasn't guilty of the identical murders years ago, some of the answers she needs to clear him lie on the far side of the veil. She's going to need help from both the living and the dead to catch the real killer.
249 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 25, 2017
116 people are currently reading
654 people want to read
About the author
Jill Nojack
12 books87 followersJill Nojack is a writer, musician and artist. She has rarely managed to make a living from the pursuit of her creative endeavors. Instead, she is a corporate drone who stays up late to indulge her passions. This passion paid off in 2015 when her book The Familiar: Book One in the Bad Tom Series was selected by readers for publication on Kindle Press through the Kindle Scout award program.
Ms. Nojack has cred. Way back in the long ago, she romped through a degree in English. She followed it up with a Master’s degree in Sociology. During her time at University she served on the staff of the school’s literary magazine. She eventually stepped in to the editor’s role.
When she isn’t exploring her creative side, Jill enjoys laughing too loud and long in public and talking about herself in third person. She resides in the great American Midwest with a long-suffering cat.
Ms. Nojack has cred. Way back in the long ago, she romped through a degree in English. She followed it up with a Master’s degree in Sociology. During her time at University she served on the staff of the school’s literary magazine. She eventually stepped in to the editor’s role.
When she isn’t exploring her creative side, Jill enjoys laughing too loud and long in public and talking about herself in third person. She resides in the great American Midwest with a long-suffering cat.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
February 15, 2018
The Innocent Dead
A Witch Cozy Mystery
By: Jill Nojack
Narrated by: Brian Callanan
This is an audible book I requested and the review is voluntary.
This was a different kind of murder mystery. The fist one killed is a very annoying woman in town and I wanted to kill here! But soon many are killed. Soon it is clear it is a serial killer. Is is from years ago and new one. Many believed it was the killer that 'got away' before that came back and started killing again. But there someone in the town that knows better, the witch that loved the person accused of being the killer. He was killed also by the killer and is a ghost. She can see him and now she that she is old and can't wait to be with him again. There are lots of twists and turns, clues, great characters, and I always guess wrong...I would be a horrible detective! Something magic but good/sad(?) happens when the witch gets attacked...no spoilers here. Good story and mystery.
The narrator was great about doing all these voices and keeping the story flowing wonderfully! He does the annoying lady too good! LOL Great performance.
A Witch Cozy Mystery
By: Jill Nojack
Narrated by: Brian Callanan
This is an audible book I requested and the review is voluntary.
This was a different kind of murder mystery. The fist one killed is a very annoying woman in town and I wanted to kill here! But soon many are killed. Soon it is clear it is a serial killer. Is is from years ago and new one. Many believed it was the killer that 'got away' before that came back and started killing again. But there someone in the town that knows better, the witch that loved the person accused of being the killer. He was killed also by the killer and is a ghost. She can see him and now she that she is old and can't wait to be with him again. There are lots of twists and turns, clues, great characters, and I always guess wrong...I would be a horrible detective! Something magic but good/sad(?) happens when the witch gets attacked...no spoilers here. Good story and mystery.
The narrator was great about doing all these voices and keeping the story flowing wonderfully! He does the annoying lady too good! LOL Great performance.
October 11, 2017
Overall this book was good. I liked the narrator and the different voices the charters were given. For me, the book was a little slow in the beginning building up. The urban fantasy, paranormal and mystery was a nice touch of adding new elements into the book. I wish the story would have caught me more, I expected a lot from this book. *This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.*
November 25, 2017
Ghosts, Witches, And Kittens Oh My!
The Innocent Dead is a Cozy Mystery and #1 in The Maid, Mother, and Crone Series by Jill Nojack.
Read by Brian Callanan
HFN Ending
This series is a spin-off of the Bad Tom Series.
You get a temporary ending point, but the overall story arc continues.
My philosophy is ALWAYS to read a series in order! :-).
Length: 6 hrs and 56 mins
Content Advisory:
There are some mild sex references and scenes, but not much and no "C" words were used.
♥ Story ♥
The Innocent Dead hits the ground running, and almost leaves those of us who have not read the previous series behind. It took me a while to aclimate to this title, but once I caught on, I didn't want to let go!
The series focuses on the triad of Maid, Mother, and Crone. Don't assume elder witch Natalie is the crone, because she will be more than happy to tell you why you are wrong. The ladies of the story all come with their own strengths and weaknesses, but each one is just as endearing. There is also potential fresh blood being introduced.
This story has a mystery at it's heart, and it is an adventure to figure out. A murderer from the past is killing again, but the one they are blaming has been missing for several decades. Lucky for them, Natalie sees dead people, quite litereally. But how do you explain that to a skeptic Sherriff? Seriously, they need to get that guy a girlfriend.
It's entertaining, heartwarming, and all magical. I want to read the Bad Tom series now. Hopefully that will come to audio in the near future. I will definately be listening to the rest of this series.
Audio Sample from Audible
♥ Author ♥
This is my 1st read/listen by Jill Nojack. This is her only audio title, but I hope they bring her other series to audio too! Her characters have such heart, and I want more!
Jill has 1 Audio titles.
♥ Narrator(s) ♥
This is my 1st listen by Brian Callanan and he did an amazing job. He did a full cast of characters, both male and female, and I couldn't help but get lost.
Brian has 21 Audio titles.
Ebook obtained through Kindle Unlimited
Audiobook obtained for free at my request and I am voluntarily leaving this unbiased review
More Reviews @ AudiobookRomance.com
February 27, 2018
Full review is here, on my blog.
Well, to start, there were definitely a series of events before this book that I am not privy to and probably maybe should have been at some point, lol. I'd just be sitting here, listening along when all of a sudden this book would lay some backstory on me like 'oh, btdubs, the same Tom married to this one witch is actually the same Tom that was magically enslaved as a cat for decades, but before all that used to be married to this other witch who is like 40 years older than she was at the time. They're just friends now though.'
Uh... okay?
'And there was this incident with an Egyptian goddess almost destroying the town' (or something like that. It was something suitably bonkers like this though)...
....Okaaaay?
'and such and such character from the-last-series-not-this-one is such a dick. Let's not talk about him.'
Yeah! Fuck that guy, probably!
'and Tom can still totally turn into a cat. So can his wife, now, apparently!'
Sweet! Unexplained shapeshifting! What a time to be alive!
I don't have problems reading series that take place after other series like this, except I always feel like I'm missing out on all kinds of things by not having the inside scoop, so to speak. Like if I'm missing out on an event that big, are there things about these characters I would like more had I known them in the books before this book? Do they have quirks I am not aware of? It doesn't help that Cassie and Tom, who appear to have been the protagonists of the series before this one, reference characters and events from that series like I'm supposed to know who they are or how they matter. So it was a little 'uh... okay, I'll roll with it.' every time. Especially considering some of this stuff sounds uh... weird, out of context, lol.
But, I digress.
In this one, we have Natalie, Cassie and Gillian, who are witches in Massachusetts (not Salem though. No space Salem Witch Trials here! *innocent whistle*). Natalie has the power to see dead people. Specifically, lately, she sees her old lover, who she knows is dead, obviously, because his ghost occasionally tends to hang out in her vicinity, but who everyone else thinks murdered a bunch of people years ago and disappeared.
Cassie, the woman married to the cat, and Jillian, the woman who used to be married to the cat, and Natalie were just about to finish their preparations for casting a spell to make it so that Natalie's dead-person-seeing powers go away, when a body is found, and the murder looks identical to those murders he was accused of all those years ago.
So, now the hunt is on for the real killer!
So, one of the first things in this story that happens to kick off the plot is that Cassie and Tom stumble over a corpse in the woods while out walking as cats (and definitely not doing anything else as cats), and instead of calling the cops, they call Natalie, because she needs a corpse for her 'go away dead people!' spell (it's okay though, because the spell won't mess with the police investigation, so they just need to borrow it first). Then, they use the half hour time in which Natalie and Jillian travel to them to have random it's-cold-and-we're-naked-because-shapeshifting sex in the woods next to that corpse they just found. Because of course they do. THAT'S AMOOOORRREEEEEEE! *smashes head into desk*
The corpse turns out to be that of the super bitchy, rich, Louis Vuitton bag carrying, Mercedes driving, impatient, super entitled lady we met in the beginning of this story when she went on an angry shopping rampage through this town. I mean, nobody in this town liked this lady (except her husband) but, we still need to figure out who killed her, even if she is pretty much Cruella de Ville with less puppy strangling.
I found I liked it more as it went. As a whodunnit, it did surprise me a few times. I always try and guess mysteries with varying levels of success, but this one is deceptively good at keeping the whodunnit an actual mystery until the appropriate time. I will admit that I did not expect this to be so, but there you go. Surprising cozy mystery is surprising!
Brian Callanan, the narrator, did a pretty great job. I feel like this sort of book is almost expected to have a female narrator, as most of the main characters are female. I mean it's the Maid, Mother, and Crone series, after all, amirite? But, he did it in a way that never made it feel lacking. He made every character different and unique, made the creepy characters sound creepy, and the British character sound suitably British. Oddly enough, the only characters that I didn't really like his narration were dudes. Mostly Tom. He had a really strange cadence, which may have been on purpose, I dunno. It certainly didn't help that Tom still often talks like he's in the 1960s, which I didn't really like. But, nevertheless, I feel like I enjoyed this book a lot more than I would have had I read it in print.
So, conclusion, I liked it, but I didn't love it. I didn't really start enjoying myself until well after halfway through. I still thought it was a good three star story though.
I received a free copy of this audiobook from the narrator in exchange for an honest review. ;D
Well, to start, there were definitely a series of events before this book that I am not privy to and probably maybe should have been at some point, lol. I'd just be sitting here, listening along when all of a sudden this book would lay some backstory on me like 'oh, btdubs, the same Tom married to this one witch is actually the same Tom that was magically enslaved as a cat for decades, but before all that used to be married to this other witch who is like 40 years older than she was at the time. They're just friends now though.'
Uh... okay?
'And there was this incident with an Egyptian goddess almost destroying the town' (or something like that. It was something suitably bonkers like this though)...
....Okaaaay?
'and such and such character from the-last-series-not-this-one is such a dick. Let's not talk about him.'
Yeah! Fuck that guy, probably!
'and Tom can still totally turn into a cat. So can his wife, now, apparently!'
Sweet! Unexplained shapeshifting! What a time to be alive!
I don't have problems reading series that take place after other series like this, except I always feel like I'm missing out on all kinds of things by not having the inside scoop, so to speak. Like if I'm missing out on an event that big, are there things about these characters I would like more had I known them in the books before this book? Do they have quirks I am not aware of? It doesn't help that Cassie and Tom, who appear to have been the protagonists of the series before this one, reference characters and events from that series like I'm supposed to know who they are or how they matter. So it was a little 'uh... okay, I'll roll with it.' every time. Especially considering some of this stuff sounds uh... weird, out of context, lol.
But, I digress.
In this one, we have Natalie, Cassie and Gillian, who are witches in Massachusetts (not Salem though. No space Salem Witch Trials here! *innocent whistle*). Natalie has the power to see dead people. Specifically, lately, she sees her old lover, who she knows is dead, obviously, because his ghost occasionally tends to hang out in her vicinity, but who everyone else thinks murdered a bunch of people years ago and disappeared.
Cassie, the woman married to the cat, and Jillian, the woman who used to be married to the cat, and Natalie were just about to finish their preparations for casting a spell to make it so that Natalie's dead-person-seeing powers go away, when a body is found, and the murder looks identical to those murders he was accused of all those years ago.
So, now the hunt is on for the real killer!
So, one of the first things in this story that happens to kick off the plot is that Cassie and Tom stumble over a corpse in the woods while out walking as cats (and definitely not doing anything else as cats), and instead of calling the cops, they call Natalie, because she needs a corpse for her 'go away dead people!' spell (it's okay though, because the spell won't mess with the police investigation, so they just need to borrow it first). Then, they use the half hour time in which Natalie and Jillian travel to them to have random it's-cold-and-we're-naked-because-shapeshifting sex in the woods next to that corpse they just found. Because of course they do. THAT'S AMOOOORRREEEEEEE! *smashes head into desk*
The corpse turns out to be that of the super bitchy, rich, Louis Vuitton bag carrying, Mercedes driving, impatient, super entitled lady we met in the beginning of this story when she went on an angry shopping rampage through this town. I mean, nobody in this town liked this lady (except her husband) but, we still need to figure out who killed her, even if she is pretty much Cruella de Ville with less puppy strangling.
I found I liked it more as it went. As a whodunnit, it did surprise me a few times. I always try and guess mysteries with varying levels of success, but this one is deceptively good at keeping the whodunnit an actual mystery until the appropriate time. I will admit that I did not expect this to be so, but there you go. Surprising cozy mystery is surprising!
Brian Callanan, the narrator, did a pretty great job. I feel like this sort of book is almost expected to have a female narrator, as most of the main characters are female. I mean it's the Maid, Mother, and Crone series, after all, amirite? But, he did it in a way that never made it feel lacking. He made every character different and unique, made the creepy characters sound creepy, and the British character sound suitably British. Oddly enough, the only characters that I didn't really like his narration were dudes. Mostly Tom. He had a really strange cadence, which may have been on purpose, I dunno. It certainly didn't help that Tom still often talks like he's in the 1960s, which I didn't really like. But, nevertheless, I feel like I enjoyed this book a lot more than I would have had I read it in print.
So, conclusion, I liked it, but I didn't love it. I didn't really start enjoying myself until well after halfway through. I still thought it was a good three star story though.
I received a free copy of this audiobook from the narrator in exchange for an honest review. ;D
October 4, 2017
**I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.**
First, things I liked about this book. The age-range of main characters. This wasn't just a book about "hot, young people". Older characters are well fleshed out and just as important as younger ones. They date and have romantic lives and grow throughout the book. This was a good paranormal mystery with everything you expect and want of the genre. I listened to the audiobook and thought the narrator did a good job.
Now, onto the negatives. Since this was listed as the first in a series, I didn't expect to come into the middle of an already drawn out story. I particularly dislike reading a series out of order. But, I will take the blame as I should have researched that myself. Nonetheless, although I haven't read the "Bad Tom" series which comes before this series, I would suggest you do so as there are a lot of "in progress" story lines.
Overall, I will probably continue this series but I don't think I will go back to the previous series.
First, things I liked about this book. The age-range of main characters. This wasn't just a book about "hot, young people". Older characters are well fleshed out and just as important as younger ones. They date and have romantic lives and grow throughout the book. This was a good paranormal mystery with everything you expect and want of the genre. I listened to the audiobook and thought the narrator did a good job.
Now, onto the negatives. Since this was listed as the first in a series, I didn't expect to come into the middle of an already drawn out story. I particularly dislike reading a series out of order. But, I will take the blame as I should have researched that myself. Nonetheless, although I haven't read the "Bad Tom" series which comes before this series, I would suggest you do so as there are a lot of "in progress" story lines.
Overall, I will probably continue this series but I don't think I will go back to the previous series.
September 15, 2017
Natalie Taylor is the High Priestess of a coven in Giles, Massachusetts. All she wants is to stop seeing dead people. Just when she has all the elements needed for the spell to keep the dead away, she finds a body in Corey Woods.
Finally, Natalie has the chance to prove that her long-lost love wasn't guilty of the murders committed years before. With luck, proving his innocence will also get him to move on to the afterlife and leave her in peace. Some of the answers she needs to solve those long-ago murders can only be gotten from the dead, the very thing she is trying to avoid at all cost.
--
Series: The Maid, Mother, and Crone Paranormal Mystery Series - Book 1
Author: Jill Nojack
Genre: Paranormal/Witch Cozy
Publisher: Kindle Press
The Innocent Dead is a new series and is part of the Witches of Giles Universe written by Jill Nojack. This book is a great beginning to what will be an ever evolving and creative series that should last for many years to come.
Natalie isn’t your typical witch or crone. She not only sees the dead, but it is also her duty to help them move one if she can. William Stanford is one very persistent ghost, who also happens to be the love of her life, and a murder suspect. The character of Natalie in the form of a grumpy old woman who never seems to smile or laugh with any real happiness is unforgettable. She is mean, bossy and outspoken, yet she also knows when to keep her mouth shut and when to help someone, living or dead.
William may be a ghost, but he is dedicated to Natalie even after 50 years. She is his world and always was. He is warm, compassionate and filled with a youthful spirit. The reader will fall in love with William and his strength and determination as well as his antics.
The additional cast of characters are equally enjoyable and graced with the beauty of mind and spirit, as well as a wonderful sense of humor, especially Cassie and Gillian. It is easy to like all of them and relate to one or more, even the decidedly purposefully oblivious chief of police, Denton.
The town of Giles and the businesses sprinkled throughout the story although fictional are described lovingly as a place a person wouldn’t mind visiting or living near. The town is built around a square with a large statue of the real-life Giles Corey who was accused of practicing witchcraft in 1692. It is an interesting and thought-provoking setting.
This story is filled with page-turning action and clues that will lead the reader right up to the killer’s doorstep. However, just when you think the mystery is solved, a wrench is thrown into the works. The reader must go back and look at the other possible suspect from a different point of view. The Innocent Dead is highly recommended to anyone who enjoys a good mystery filled with magic, witches, and the occasional ghost.
Finally, Natalie has the chance to prove that her long-lost love wasn't guilty of the murders committed years before. With luck, proving his innocence will also get him to move on to the afterlife and leave her in peace. Some of the answers she needs to solve those long-ago murders can only be gotten from the dead, the very thing she is trying to avoid at all cost.
--
Series: The Maid, Mother, and Crone Paranormal Mystery Series - Book 1
Author: Jill Nojack
Genre: Paranormal/Witch Cozy
Publisher: Kindle Press
The Innocent Dead is a new series and is part of the Witches of Giles Universe written by Jill Nojack. This book is a great beginning to what will be an ever evolving and creative series that should last for many years to come.
Natalie isn’t your typical witch or crone. She not only sees the dead, but it is also her duty to help them move one if she can. William Stanford is one very persistent ghost, who also happens to be the love of her life, and a murder suspect. The character of Natalie in the form of a grumpy old woman who never seems to smile or laugh with any real happiness is unforgettable. She is mean, bossy and outspoken, yet she also knows when to keep her mouth shut and when to help someone, living or dead.
William may be a ghost, but he is dedicated to Natalie even after 50 years. She is his world and always was. He is warm, compassionate and filled with a youthful spirit. The reader will fall in love with William and his strength and determination as well as his antics.
The additional cast of characters are equally enjoyable and graced with the beauty of mind and spirit, as well as a wonderful sense of humor, especially Cassie and Gillian. It is easy to like all of them and relate to one or more, even the decidedly purposefully oblivious chief of police, Denton.
The town of Giles and the businesses sprinkled throughout the story although fictional are described lovingly as a place a person wouldn’t mind visiting or living near. The town is built around a square with a large statue of the real-life Giles Corey who was accused of practicing witchcraft in 1692. It is an interesting and thought-provoking setting.
This story is filled with page-turning action and clues that will lead the reader right up to the killer’s doorstep. However, just when you think the mystery is solved, a wrench is thrown into the works. The reader must go back and look at the other possible suspect from a different point of view. The Innocent Dead is highly recommended to anyone who enjoys a good mystery filled with magic, witches, and the occasional ghost.
July 3, 2017
I received a free copy through the Kindle Scout program in exchange for an honest review.
Three witches get involved in a murder mystery when it appears a killer from the past has returned. One of the witches, Natalie, wants to finally clear the name of her long ago boyfriend who was accused of the first round of murders before he disappeared. But of they aren't careful, they might end up as some of the newest victims.
First off, this says it is the first book in the series. While that is technically true, it is a follow up to another series that featured the same characters (at least some of them). That was the Bad Tom trilogy by the same author. I think the main difference was those stories featured two other characters in the main spotlight. I haven't read the other series so some of this is conjecture. While I was never completely lost, I did have the feeling of coming in late to the story. It was like starting to watch a TV series in its second season without having seen the first. You get most of it but there are a lot of references to the past. The characters have developed their roles somewhat so you have to play catch up if you aren't familiar with them. Also you don't develop as strong as a bond with them as if you got to know them earlier.
This is a cozy mystery so expect it to be lighter in tone and complexity than say a police procedural. The mystery is good but I would have liked to have seen more red herrings. As it was, I fell for the big red herring. But when the solution was revealed it seemed like it had to work harder to prove that it was a "better" solution than the big red herring.
The writing seemed a little choppy in the beginning with a lot of quick jumps from scene to scene. This might have been due to me trying to get a feel for the characters and their world as I said earlier. Anyway, the writing smoothed out as the story progressed (or I became more familiar with them).
This is another witch story that really doesn't have a lot of witchiness to it. It is mentioned but not used that much.
As with most cozy mysteries, the biggest draw is the characters. The cast of this story are fairly easy to like or are at least interesting. Natalie is a little too crotchety to be easily liked but she is definitely interesting.
I did like this story and wouldn't have a problem suggesting it to fans of cozy mysteries. But I would suggest trying the Bad Tom books first just so you don't have that what did I miss feelings. I liked this one good enough that I will probably go back and try those as well.
Three witches get involved in a murder mystery when it appears a killer from the past has returned. One of the witches, Natalie, wants to finally clear the name of her long ago boyfriend who was accused of the first round of murders before he disappeared. But of they aren't careful, they might end up as some of the newest victims.
First off, this says it is the first book in the series. While that is technically true, it is a follow up to another series that featured the same characters (at least some of them). That was the Bad Tom trilogy by the same author. I think the main difference was those stories featured two other characters in the main spotlight. I haven't read the other series so some of this is conjecture. While I was never completely lost, I did have the feeling of coming in late to the story. It was like starting to watch a TV series in its second season without having seen the first. You get most of it but there are a lot of references to the past. The characters have developed their roles somewhat so you have to play catch up if you aren't familiar with them. Also you don't develop as strong as a bond with them as if you got to know them earlier.
This is a cozy mystery so expect it to be lighter in tone and complexity than say a police procedural. The mystery is good but I would have liked to have seen more red herrings. As it was, I fell for the big red herring. But when the solution was revealed it seemed like it had to work harder to prove that it was a "better" solution than the big red herring.
The writing seemed a little choppy in the beginning with a lot of quick jumps from scene to scene. This might have been due to me trying to get a feel for the characters and their world as I said earlier. Anyway, the writing smoothed out as the story progressed (or I became more familiar with them).
This is another witch story that really doesn't have a lot of witchiness to it. It is mentioned but not used that much.
As with most cozy mysteries, the biggest draw is the characters. The cast of this story are fairly easy to like or are at least interesting. Natalie is a little too crotchety to be easily liked but she is definitely interesting.
I did like this story and wouldn't have a problem suggesting it to fans of cozy mysteries. But I would suggest trying the Bad Tom books first just so you don't have that what did I miss feelings. I liked this one good enough that I will probably go back and try those as well.
January 8, 2018
The Innocent Dead: The Maid, Mother, and Crone 1
Reading in chronological order is best.
The Innocent D is a paranormal series with great promise. Natalie Taylor, High Priestess of the coven in Giles, can see ghosts and help them crossover but does not want to any longer. But then a killer from the past returns. And that gives Natalie a chance to prove that her ex beau, William the ghost I n the argyle jumper, is innocent of murder. Folks think William ran away but he was murdered and his body never found. Confused, when till you read this little riot!
There is much that is endearing. The story embraces diversity seamlessly. It's intergenerational and interracial. The jury is out as to whether the police and black interaction were stereotypical or an honest reflection of racist America. There is a host of curious characters who could hold stories on their own. And some did in the previous series.
I started this book three times, and the reason why I found it hard to get into was that it always felt like I started in the middle of something. And I did. The Innocent Dead is a carryover from the Bad Tom Series. So, these well-developed characters came with a history. It would have been useful to know beforehand. But now you do. So, I would advise that readers begin with the previous series before embarking on this whacky urban fantasy tale.
The plot is a little more intricate that found in cosy mysteries if a bit OTT but it is well written and held my attention. Natalie is wise and vulnerable and somewhat relatable. I like William, he is a dweeb, but a sweet one. Natalie's sidekicks Cassie and Gillian are delightful, and the list goes on.
Ghosts, witches and a real teaser mystery. I say go for it.
😉
Connect with me on Twitter and FB
See all my reviews
Check out my blog on imjussayin
Book Rating
Sexual Content: U
Language: U
Violent: U
Would I read the next oneor reread?: Yes
My rating system (* = star)
0* Could not finish this book (waste of time)
1* Finished the book but didn't like it.
2* Finished the book it was okay.
3* A good read worth your time.
4* An excellent read often with a novel concept or unusual plot.
5* A great read. A prominent example of the genre.
Reading in chronological order is best.
The Innocent D is a paranormal series with great promise. Natalie Taylor, High Priestess of the coven in Giles, can see ghosts and help them crossover but does not want to any longer. But then a killer from the past returns. And that gives Natalie a chance to prove that her ex beau, William the ghost I n the argyle jumper, is innocent of murder. Folks think William ran away but he was murdered and his body never found. Confused, when till you read this little riot!
There is much that is endearing. The story embraces diversity seamlessly. It's intergenerational and interracial. The jury is out as to whether the police and black interaction were stereotypical or an honest reflection of racist America. There is a host of curious characters who could hold stories on their own. And some did in the previous series.
I started this book three times, and the reason why I found it hard to get into was that it always felt like I started in the middle of something. And I did. The Innocent Dead is a carryover from the Bad Tom Series. So, these well-developed characters came with a history. It would have been useful to know beforehand. But now you do. So, I would advise that readers begin with the previous series before embarking on this whacky urban fantasy tale.
The plot is a little more intricate that found in cosy mysteries if a bit OTT but it is well written and held my attention. Natalie is wise and vulnerable and somewhat relatable. I like William, he is a dweeb, but a sweet one. Natalie's sidekicks Cassie and Gillian are delightful, and the list goes on.
Ghosts, witches and a real teaser mystery. I say go for it.
😉
Connect with me on Twitter and FB
See all my reviews
Check out my blog on imjussayin
Book Rating
Sexual Content: U
Language: U
Violent: U
Would I read the next one
My rating system (* = star)
0* Could not finish this book (waste of time)
1* Finished the book but didn't like it.
2* Finished the book it was okay.
3* A good read worth your time.
4* An excellent read often with a novel concept or unusual plot.
5* A great read. A prominent example of the genre.
October 25, 2017
Title: The Innocent Dead: A Witch Cozy Mystery
Author: Jill Nojack
Read by: Brian Callanan
Publisher: Indieheart Press
Length: Approximately 12 hours and 8 minutes
Source: Review Copy from Author Jill Nojack – Thank-you!
Natalie loved William in their youth with all of her heart until he disappeared one day, accused of being a serial murderer. His ghost has haunted her for fifty years since, but she can never prove his innocence, nor rid him of his ghostly ugly sweater. In the small town of Giles, Massachusetts, there are many witches and warlocks still around trying to live normal lives. When the murders start to happen again, can Natalie prove that William was innocent after all while also stopping the murderer?
I enjoyed this paranormal mystery and it was a perfect read leading up to Halloween. I loved the setting of the spooky small town located close to Salem, Massachusetts. I also loved the vividly written characters. While I loved the main love story of Natalie and William, there are also newlyweds Cassie and Tom (who was once a cat), and partners Gillian and Robert to provide an interesting love story as well. Natalie, Cassie, and Gillian are the Maid, Mother, and Crone of the series. They work together to solve the mystery along with a great cast of interesting side characters in town. The mystery was great – it kept me guessing all of the way until the end!
I really enjoyed narrator Brian Callanan. He had fantastic and unique voices for each of the characters. It kept me intrigued with the story and looking forward to my daily commute. I love when a narrator adds to the story in such a way and really gets into it.
The only part I didn’t enjoy about this book is that it is the first in a series, but I felt a bit lost when I first got into it as there seemed to be a fair share of back story that I didn’t know anything about. I found out at the end that there was a series about Tom and Cassie before this series . . . I think I need to listen to that series now!
Overall, The Innocent Dead was very enjoyable cozy mystery audiobook with great characters and setting. It’s the perfect audiobook for this time of year. I want to know how Natalie and William’s love story ends. I need to listen to the next book in the series!
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2017...
Author: Jill Nojack
Read by: Brian Callanan
Publisher: Indieheart Press
Length: Approximately 12 hours and 8 minutes
Source: Review Copy from Author Jill Nojack – Thank-you!
Natalie loved William in their youth with all of her heart until he disappeared one day, accused of being a serial murderer. His ghost has haunted her for fifty years since, but she can never prove his innocence, nor rid him of his ghostly ugly sweater. In the small town of Giles, Massachusetts, there are many witches and warlocks still around trying to live normal lives. When the murders start to happen again, can Natalie prove that William was innocent after all while also stopping the murderer?
I enjoyed this paranormal mystery and it was a perfect read leading up to Halloween. I loved the setting of the spooky small town located close to Salem, Massachusetts. I also loved the vividly written characters. While I loved the main love story of Natalie and William, there are also newlyweds Cassie and Tom (who was once a cat), and partners Gillian and Robert to provide an interesting love story as well. Natalie, Cassie, and Gillian are the Maid, Mother, and Crone of the series. They work together to solve the mystery along with a great cast of interesting side characters in town. The mystery was great – it kept me guessing all of the way until the end!
I really enjoyed narrator Brian Callanan. He had fantastic and unique voices for each of the characters. It kept me intrigued with the story and looking forward to my daily commute. I love when a narrator adds to the story in such a way and really gets into it.
The only part I didn’t enjoy about this book is that it is the first in a series, but I felt a bit lost when I first got into it as there seemed to be a fair share of back story that I didn’t know anything about. I found out at the end that there was a series about Tom and Cassie before this series . . . I think I need to listen to that series now!
Overall, The Innocent Dead was very enjoyable cozy mystery audiobook with great characters and setting. It’s the perfect audiobook for this time of year. I want to know how Natalie and William’s love story ends. I need to listen to the next book in the series!
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2017...
September 13, 2017
I was a bit lost
I did enjoy this story for the most part but unfortunately I was confused on multiple occasions throughout. As I was reading I felt as if I was missing out on a previous book and with The Innocent Dead being the first in a new series that didn't sit quite right with me. This was also the first book from this particular author that I have ever read so I was unaware of her previous series called Bad Tom until I got to the end of the book.
I will say though that I enjoyed the characters even though there was a bit of a disconnect from not knowing their history but I am curious enough about them that I am thinking of purchasing the Bad Tom series. The mystery in this particular story centers around some unsolved murders from the past and some current killings happening now. I thought the author did great buy giving the reader a few viable suspects though I was still able to figure out the killer before the stories end it was enjoyable.
I think that anyone who loves cozy mysteries would enjoy this. Just do not make my mistake by not reading the other series entitled Bad Tom even though this is considered a standalone book it was confusing and gaps of information that I at least thought important were missing. I also would love to know more behind the killers reasoning for leaving a toy behind and the Italian words aside from the fact he knew Italian.
I did receive this aver it was selected for publication by kindle scout
I did enjoy this story for the most part but unfortunately I was confused on multiple occasions throughout. As I was reading I felt as if I was missing out on a previous book and with The Innocent Dead being the first in a new series that didn't sit quite right with me. This was also the first book from this particular author that I have ever read so I was unaware of her previous series called Bad Tom until I got to the end of the book.
I will say though that I enjoyed the characters even though there was a bit of a disconnect from not knowing their history but I am curious enough about them that I am thinking of purchasing the Bad Tom series. The mystery in this particular story centers around some unsolved murders from the past and some current killings happening now. I thought the author did great buy giving the reader a few viable suspects though I was still able to figure out the killer before the stories end it was enjoyable.
I think that anyone who loves cozy mysteries would enjoy this. Just do not make my mistake by not reading the other series entitled Bad Tom even though this is considered a standalone book it was confusing and gaps of information that I at least thought important were missing. I also would love to know more behind the killers reasoning for leaving a toy behind and the Italian words aside from the fact he knew Italian.
I did receive this aver it was selected for publication by kindle scout
October 4, 2017
Natalie Taylor, High Priestess of the coven in Giles, Massachusetts, can see the spirits of dead people. One persistent spirit, her long lost love William, is urging her to prove that he's innocent of the murders that still haunt the small town. When a body shows up with the exact same traits as the old murders, Natalie is determined to find the killer and clear William's name.
Cozy mysteries aren't my usual genre, but I picked this one up because of the paranormal angle. I'm so glad I did! I absolutely loved the full cast of quirky characters, and the mystery had me guessing right up til the end. The small town setting was perfect. Natalie was definitely prickly, but the glimpses of her vulnerability made her likable. William was a treat, if I was going to be haunted by a ghost, I'd pick a handsome guy in an argyle vest any day. But Twink was my favorite!
The narration was really well done, Brian Callanan performed the full cast of characters with a distinct voice for each of them. He made it a really fun listen. This is the first book in a new series, but contains characters from and references to the Bad Tom series. I'd recommend reading that series too. I requested a copy of the audiobook, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review.
Cozy mysteries aren't my usual genre, but I picked this one up because of the paranormal angle. I'm so glad I did! I absolutely loved the full cast of quirky characters, and the mystery had me guessing right up til the end. The small town setting was perfect. Natalie was definitely prickly, but the glimpses of her vulnerability made her likable. William was a treat, if I was going to be haunted by a ghost, I'd pick a handsome guy in an argyle vest any day. But Twink was my favorite!
The narration was really well done, Brian Callanan performed the full cast of characters with a distinct voice for each of them. He made it a really fun listen. This is the first book in a new series, but contains characters from and references to the Bad Tom series. I'd recommend reading that series too. I requested a copy of the audiobook, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review.
May 24, 2024
The great strength of this charming cozy mystery (with good witches, helpful ghosts and charming kittens) is the great narration by Brian Callanan. This is my first book by this author and narrator.
The author needs to book Callanan to do books 2 and 3 in this series.
As someone who does several audiobooks a day here are the reasons I thought the narration was 5 star: 1) clear, distinct, consistently used character voices (which gets rid of lots of "he said, she said"...particularly good older women voices; 2) varying placement of breathing pauses...too many narrators breath only at the end of sentences, giving a "sing songy" pattern, especially when listened to at 2x+ speeds; 3) no mispronunciatiins...even one can agitate regular audiobook consumers; 4) appropriate vocal clues for emotions of the scene in the text; and, 4) appropriate vocal clues for emotions of the scene in the text; 5) precise, clear articulation and pronunciation that allows for an enjoyable listen at 1.75x+ speeds
The natural vocal qualities of this excellent narrator, Brian Callanan, are perfect for the cozy mystery genre; but I would love to see him more in the romance genre. He would be perfect for the increasingly popular dual narration trend.
The author needs to book Callanan to do books 2 and 3 in this series.
As someone who does several audiobooks a day here are the reasons I thought the narration was 5 star: 1) clear, distinct, consistently used character voices (which gets rid of lots of "he said, she said"...particularly good older women voices; 2) varying placement of breathing pauses...too many narrators breath only at the end of sentences, giving a "sing songy" pattern, especially when listened to at 2x+ speeds; 3) no mispronunciatiins...even one can agitate regular audiobook consumers; 4) appropriate vocal clues for emotions of the scene in the text; and, 4) appropriate vocal clues for emotions of the scene in the text; 5) precise, clear articulation and pronunciation that allows for an enjoyable listen at 1.75x+ speeds
The natural vocal qualities of this excellent narrator, Brian Callanan, are perfect for the cozy mystery genre; but I would love to see him more in the romance genre. He would be perfect for the increasingly popular dual narration trend.
January 12, 2018
Stalked in a Small Town
Since this was the first book of the series, I was a bit confused when I started in with a pile of characters who clearly knew each other in a very familiar way. It wasn't until I finished the book that I learned that this series is a spin-off of another. But once you are past the first chapter or two, all of the relationships fall neatly into place and you will have no trouble matching individuals. Of course it helps that narrator Brian Callanan did a superb job with differentiating voices ranging from American to British to Boston. Why yes, for many Boston is a distinct dialect (although we were not treated to "paaaahking the caaaah"--much more subtle inflections). I pride myself on picking up enough of the clues to have narrowed down the Suspects, but needed the final denouement to ensure that I had made the right selection. But we are talking paranormal here, with witches and ghost adding a few twists of Their Own, enhancing this delightful tale.
Disclaimer: "I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Since this was the first book of the series, I was a bit confused when I started in with a pile of characters who clearly knew each other in a very familiar way. It wasn't until I finished the book that I learned that this series is a spin-off of another. But once you are past the first chapter or two, all of the relationships fall neatly into place and you will have no trouble matching individuals. Of course it helps that narrator Brian Callanan did a superb job with differentiating voices ranging from American to British to Boston. Why yes, for many Boston is a distinct dialect (although we were not treated to "paaaahking the caaaah"--much more subtle inflections). I pride myself on picking up enough of the clues to have narrowed down the Suspects, but needed the final denouement to ensure that I had made the right selection. But we are talking paranormal here, with witches and ghost adding a few twists of Their Own, enhancing this delightful tale.
Disclaimer: "I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
March 5, 2018
There are so many positives to say about this book. The first is that the plot wasn’t original, but the characters made it seem unique and different than most cozy reads. The second positive is that the narrator is so talented and his narration includes many different voices, lots of inflection, and an overall enjoyable presence. The third positive is that the story takes place in Salem and there is brief history of Giles Corey—a real life victim of the Salem Witch Trials.
Now the negatives (which are outweighed by the positives): I wish the author chose a female narrator as I was getting very confused as to whose point of views were being addressed. I liked the narrator’s voices and attempt to read three female characters, but I just didn’t connect with the characters as much as I wanted to. Another negative was that it took several chapters for me to get invested in the story.
Finally, “athame” is pronounced ah-tha-may, not ah-tha-me.
This book was given to me for free in exchange for an honest review.
Now the negatives (which are outweighed by the positives): I wish the author chose a female narrator as I was getting very confused as to whose point of views were being addressed. I liked the narrator’s voices and attempt to read three female characters, but I just didn’t connect with the characters as much as I wanted to. Another negative was that it took several chapters for me to get invested in the story.
Finally, “athame” is pronounced ah-tha-may, not ah-tha-me.
This book was given to me for free in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2018
I enjoyed this book and the interesting history 0f inheritance in a town full of magical groups and the "I'd rather not know" citizens sharing the same town of Giles. Their closeness to Salem made the tourist season busy. Three friends, Natalie, Gillian, and Cassie share a magic store with teas, fragrance, and other odd ingredients they know the tourists will buy. They are also part of a coven: Mother, Maiden, Crone so their spells will work. A combination of a ghost stalking Natalie about his murder, sudden recurrence of murders resembling those of the past, new members of town with hidden histories, and untrained witch causing problems, Sorting through this puzzle explains the actions of some of the participants and solves a 30 year old murder. Sturdy reading curiosity and the pace of plot works very well and makes the reader want to visit again.
October 24, 2017
This audiobook appears as if it's the first in a series - which it is. However, these characters have developed from a previous series (Bad Tom?) So coming into the story, confusion set in, as the 'backstory' is barely touched upon, other than references. For some (like me) one would have to just accept not knowing, rather than stopping and finding the other books. So it's not completely a stand alone book.
The characters are fabulous, though. The young, the old; the magical and non-magical; the dead and the living all held their own and stayed true to character.
The talented and gifted Mr Callanan provided each character with a unique and solid voice. He captivated my attention and was the sole reason I stayed with the book. I'm happy I did, because once I released my confusion and 'went with it', the story wrapped around me. I'm ready for him to take me on more adventures and have already downloaded another book he narrates!
I would recommend this paranormystery, but strongly suggest reading the others first.
I review all ebooks and audiobooks, however: "I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review."
The characters are fabulous, though. The young, the old; the magical and non-magical; the dead and the living all held their own and stayed true to character.
The talented and gifted Mr Callanan provided each character with a unique and solid voice. He captivated my attention and was the sole reason I stayed with the book. I'm happy I did, because once I released my confusion and 'went with it', the story wrapped around me. I'm ready for him to take me on more adventures and have already downloaded another book he narrates!
I would recommend this paranormystery, but strongly suggest reading the others first.
I review all ebooks and audiobooks, however: "I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review."
October 27, 2017
This was a fun story, although a bit slow at the beginning. The characters were interesting and quirky but it was a challenge keeping track of so many. Eventually I got everyone straight. I enjoyed the elements of magic, mystery and suspense as Natalie tried to clear the name of her departed love. I was surprised to find that this audiobook was narrated by a male narrator, given the number of female characters. My concern turned out to be unfounded, as Brian Callanan did a great job with this large cast of characters. The Innocent Dead was a very pleasant listening experience and I would recommend it.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. This review is my honest opinion.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. This review is my honest opinion.
October 17, 2017
Somehow this murder mystery manages to be humorous... well, not all the time, but most of it.
I quirky cast of characters with strong personalities makes for some very funny moments throughout the book. The ghost elements are both tragic and sometimes funny.
The mystery is well designed, not too obvious and not too hard to figure out.
The story is engaging and fun to listen to with the narration a good match for the book. The character voices were very well done.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and/or narrator and/or publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I quirky cast of characters with strong personalities makes for some very funny moments throughout the book. The ghost elements are both tragic and sometimes funny.
The mystery is well designed, not too obvious and not too hard to figure out.
The story is engaging and fun to listen to with the narration a good match for the book. The character voices were very well done.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and/or narrator and/or publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2018
I liked the book, however as I was reading it, the story seemed like I was missing another story before it. This book is supposed to be the beginning of a trilogy/series. As your reading the story keeps mentioning things that your supposed to understand, things your already supposed to know. After doing some digging, it is to my understanding that if you read the authors "Bad Tom" series you will feel more clued in. I am purchasing the next in the series because I am enjoying the characters. That being said, I do hope that Ms. Nojack didn't do the same thing in book 2.
January 25, 2020
Enjoyable
This charming book is set in the same little Massachusetts town as the Tom Cat series. Somewhere near Salem, this community has a coven of witches who help run the town — at least the supernatural side of things. Most of the characters are familiar from the earlier books, and this time they’re trying to get to the bottom of a series of murders that are very similar to some that were committed decades earlier. Satisfying and entertaining, this is certainly a cozy. I’m looking forward to more.
This charming book is set in the same little Massachusetts town as the Tom Cat series. Somewhere near Salem, this community has a coven of witches who help run the town — at least the supernatural side of things. Most of the characters are familiar from the earlier books, and this time they’re trying to get to the bottom of a series of murders that are very similar to some that were committed decades earlier. Satisfying and entertaining, this is certainly a cozy. I’m looking forward to more.
February 18, 2018
Audible UK:I LOVED this book!I listened to it straight through,all day long.A fresh murder in a witchy town harkens back to decades old murders.Who is both old and new to town?Everyone!I am looking forward to the next in the series!Brian Callahan is a good narrator,though Natalies voice was a bit shrill at times.“I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator, or publisher.”
July 2, 2017
Good story.
A good story, plenty of mystery to it, though not a huge amount of witchcraft. It took me a long time to figure out who the killer was as there are a lot of red herrings to keep the reader guessing.
I would have given an extra star but I found one of the main characters intensely dislikeable.
A good story, plenty of mystery to it, though not a huge amount of witchcraft. It took me a long time to figure out who the killer was as there are a lot of red herrings to keep the reader guessing.
I would have given an extra star but I found one of the main characters intensely dislikeable.
January 16, 2018
My review is based on the Audiobook. The Innocent Dead is a fantastic supernatural cozy mystery with in depth and relatable characters. It can be a stand alone but I am eager to read more in the series. The narrator does a great job at bringing the story to life. I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
February 27, 2018
This was a nice murder mystery read with witches, ghosts, magic, people that can shift into cats and a bunch of diverse characters. I thought I knew who the murderer was early in the book, but turns out I was wrong. This cozy mystery is a very clean read, no cussing or any sex (although it is implied).
I voted for this book on Kindle Scout.
I voted for this book on Kindle Scout.
July 23, 2017
A fun-to-read cozy mystery telling the continuing story of the characters from the Bad Tom series. This one is more focused on the crusty witch Natalie. Some red herrings, some unexpected twists... make for an entertaining story.
I received a copy of this book through the Kindle Scout program.
I received a copy of this book through the Kindle Scout program.
March 6, 2020
Definitely a good read! I'm a fan of paranormal books and have read the previous Bad Tom series
I enjoy the characters and can't wait to read the next in this series. If your a fan of Charlaine Harris and Mary Janice Davidson you'll enjoy these books.
I enjoy the characters and can't wait to read the next in this series. If your a fan of Charlaine Harris and Mary Janice Davidson you'll enjoy these books.
July 14, 2017
Witches and Ghosts
Very good Cozy with murder and ghosts and Witches trying to figure out who did it. A real fun read and I am looking forward to read more by her.
Very good Cozy with murder and ghosts and Witches trying to figure out who did it. A real fun read and I am looking forward to read more by her.
October 14, 2017
Another good read
I enjoyed the Bad Tom series so much, that I noticed another 2 book series, that could've been book 3 and 4.
Thank you
C. A. Harlow
I enjoyed the Bad Tom series so much, that I noticed another 2 book series, that could've been book 3 and 4.
Thank you
C. A. Harlow
August 19, 2019
Natalie can be with William npw
He has been transformed into a djinn and move forward with his existence. Will Tom and Cassie have a baby?
He has been transformed into a djinn and move forward with his existence. Will Tom and Cassie have a baby?
July 20, 2024
This was a quirky murder mystery with witch magic elements. Brian Callanan voiced this book well. I liked the book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews