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Witch City Mystery #8
Final Exam
A cold case update in Salem, Massachusetts . . .
Life at the house on Winter Street is abuzz with preparations for Aunt Ibby's 45th high school reunion, and Lee Barrett is happy to pitch in, tracking down addresses and licking envelopes. But as a field reporter for Salem's WICH-TV, her priority is to be on top of the town's latest news before for anyone else.
When the local police dredge up a vintage sports car containing human remains, Lee is thrilled to be the first reporter on the scene. Once she learns the car is connected to the cold case her boyfriend Pete happens to be investigating, her powers of investigation are quickly alerted. But it's her Aunt Libby's emotional reaction to Lee's TV report that puts her on the case. With the help of O'Ryan, her psychic feline sidekick, she'll have to unravel a tangled past of secrets and promises to stop a killer from making history again . . .
Life at the house on Winter Street is abuzz with preparations for Aunt Ibby's 45th high school reunion, and Lee Barrett is happy to pitch in, tracking down addresses and licking envelopes. But as a field reporter for Salem's WICH-TV, her priority is to be on top of the town's latest news before for anyone else.
When the local police dredge up a vintage sports car containing human remains, Lee is thrilled to be the first reporter on the scene. Once she learns the car is connected to the cold case her boyfriend Pete happens to be investigating, her powers of investigation are quickly alerted. But it's her Aunt Libby's emotional reaction to Lee's TV report that puts her on the case. With the help of O'Ryan, her psychic feline sidekick, she'll have to unravel a tangled past of secrets and promises to stop a killer from making history again . . .
355 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 26, 2019
125 people are currently reading
755 people want to read
About the author
Carol J. Perry
39 books779 followersCarol J. Perry is the author of the Witch City Mystery series and the Haunted Haven series, both from Kensington Publishers. The Witch City stories take place in the magical city of Salem, Massachusetts--the "Witch City." Carol was actually born in Salem (on Halloween eve!) and knows the city well. The Haunted Haven books take place in Carol's adopted home state of Florida. As an experienced travel writer for magazines and newspapers, Carol knows her way around the Sunshine State too. The Salem books are based of course on a real city but Haven, Florida is made up of bits and pieces of some of the Sunshine State's charming older towns--bypassed by the theme parks. Readers of the Witch City books have come to know O'Ryan, a most remarkable cat. The new series introduces Finn, a lovable Golden Retriever.
Carol lives in the Tampa Bay area of Florida with her husband Dan.
Librarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Carol lives in the Tampa Bay area of Florida with her husband Dan.
Librarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
February 17, 2019
This was another fun read in the ongoing WITCH CITY MYSTERY series. I continue to find Lee, a likable heroine. I also enjoy her continuing romance with Pete. Although...why are these two not living together yet?? (lol) Aunt Ibby and the cat O'Ryan continue to be great secondary characters. The mystery in this one was well laid out with some good twists and turns. However, I did figure out the "who done it" very early on, but the "why" and the "how" kept me guessing right up until the end.
I'm looking forward to seeing what Lee and company get up to next.
March 14, 2019
Life at the house on Winter Street is abuzz with preparations for Aunt Ibby’s 45th high school reunion, and Lee Barrett is happy to pitch in, tracking down addresses and licking envelopes. But as a field reporter for Salem’s WICH-TV, her priority is to be on top of the town’s latest news before anyone else.
When the local police dredge up a vintage sports car containing human remains, Lee is thrilled to be the first reporter on the scene. Once she learns the car is connected to the cold case her boyfriend Pete happens to be working on, her powers of investigation are quickly alerted. But it’s her Aunt Ibby’s emotional reaction to Lee’s TV report that puts her on the case. With the help of O’Ryan, her psychic feline sidekick, she’ll have to unravel a tangled past of secrets and promises to stop a killer from making history again.
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Series: A Witch City Mystery - Book 8
Author: Carol J. Perry
Genre: Cozy Mystery/Witch/Paranormal
Publisher: Kensington Books
Carol J. Perry’s Final Exam is a compelling addition to the Witch City Mystery series from Kensington Books.. This story will have readers laughing, yelling and occasionally on the verge of tears. However, in the end they will be happy and satisfied.
Lee finally gets her dream job but at what price. While trying to help her aunt Ibby she uncovers a murder and makes her aunt the prime suspect. Aunt Ibby is a beloved character throughout this series. She is the one relative we all wish we had, someone kind, loving, intelligent and genuinely admirable individual. Other characters who are staples of this series make an appearance and are delightful and entertaining.
Salem is special. It makes the reader want to jump in the car and travel to this lovely town to see all the wonderful people and places. With the historical relevance and the touristy atmosphere there is no better place to put a magic related series. Each time the reader visits this town they get a thrill from the idea that witches openly live, work, and walk the streets.
If there is a complaint about this book, it has nothing to do with the story or the writing as Ms. Perry is an excellent writer who knows her subject matter and is skilled with transitions and plot lines. No, my complaint is that I found myself wanting things to go back to the days when Lee taught at the Trumbull school and there is not enough of the recurring characters from the school. And… there is never enough of River.
The killer is not necessarily the kind of person you would expect. Not someone you would hate or even dislike overall. But the mere fact that they are a killer will become evident. In the end, murder is wrong no matter how it happens.
Final Exam, sounds like an ending but it's not. Lee and Pete will go forward, Aunt Ibby is safe. It will be interesting to see what becomes of River and her BF in the coming books, and what mischief Lee gets up to next Readers will love this book, series, and anything Ms. Perry writes.
When the local police dredge up a vintage sports car containing human remains, Lee is thrilled to be the first reporter on the scene. Once she learns the car is connected to the cold case her boyfriend Pete happens to be working on, her powers of investigation are quickly alerted. But it’s her Aunt Ibby’s emotional reaction to Lee’s TV report that puts her on the case. With the help of O’Ryan, her psychic feline sidekick, she’ll have to unravel a tangled past of secrets and promises to stop a killer from making history again.
--
Series: A Witch City Mystery - Book 8
Author: Carol J. Perry
Genre: Cozy Mystery/Witch/Paranormal
Publisher: Kensington Books
Carol J. Perry’s Final Exam is a compelling addition to the Witch City Mystery series from Kensington Books.. This story will have readers laughing, yelling and occasionally on the verge of tears. However, in the end they will be happy and satisfied.
Lee finally gets her dream job but at what price. While trying to help her aunt Ibby she uncovers a murder and makes her aunt the prime suspect. Aunt Ibby is a beloved character throughout this series. She is the one relative we all wish we had, someone kind, loving, intelligent and genuinely admirable individual. Other characters who are staples of this series make an appearance and are delightful and entertaining.
Salem is special. It makes the reader want to jump in the car and travel to this lovely town to see all the wonderful people and places. With the historical relevance and the touristy atmosphere there is no better place to put a magic related series. Each time the reader visits this town they get a thrill from the idea that witches openly live, work, and walk the streets.
If there is a complaint about this book, it has nothing to do with the story or the writing as Ms. Perry is an excellent writer who knows her subject matter and is skilled with transitions and plot lines. No, my complaint is that I found myself wanting things to go back to the days when Lee taught at the Trumbull school and there is not enough of the recurring characters from the school. And… there is never enough of River.
The killer is not necessarily the kind of person you would expect. Not someone you would hate or even dislike overall. But the mere fact that they are a killer will become evident. In the end, murder is wrong no matter how it happens.
Final Exam, sounds like an ending but it's not. Lee and Pete will go forward, Aunt Ibby is safe. It will be interesting to see what becomes of River and her BF in the coming books, and what mischief Lee gets up to next Readers will love this book, series, and anything Ms. Perry writes.
February 26, 2019
Book 8 of the series but first book for me, I was introduced to field reporter Lee Barrett of Salem's WICH-TV and her Aunt Ibby. One tip and Lee reports the car with human remains dredged up by the cops. The case has 2 fold effects, Aunt Ibby's emotional one and her boyfriend Pete's investigative one.
Carol J. Perry has written this book with an interesting and captivating murder mystery with a tinge of paranormal and witch-y talent along with psychic cat O'Ryan. The story pulled me in even when I joined it at the 8th step, I could understand the characters and get to love them. Though I could guess the killer, I didn't know the reason and that kept me hooked to it.
Aunt Ibby was one quirky but warm character, and she fascinated me in the entire book. Lee and Pete kept me involved in their romance and investigation. Overall a quick read on a lazy afternoon.
Carol J. Perry has written this book with an interesting and captivating murder mystery with a tinge of paranormal and witch-y talent along with psychic cat O'Ryan. The story pulled me in even when I joined it at the 8th step, I could understand the characters and get to love them. Though I could guess the killer, I didn't know the reason and that kept me hooked to it.
Aunt Ibby was one quirky but warm character, and she fascinated me in the entire book. Lee and Pete kept me involved in their romance and investigation. Overall a quick read on a lazy afternoon.
January 11, 2019
I love this series. I have read every book in the series and have never been disappointed by author Carol J. Perry’s clever writing. It’s Aunt Ibby’s 45th high school reunion. Niece and TV field reporter Lee is happy to help with the festivities. When Lee finds herself reporting on an abandoned vintage sports car with human remains, Lee knows she has come across another mystery that only she has the special abilities to unravel. Could the mystery and the reunion be related? Why is Aunt Libby so emotional? Will the killer in this cold case strike again? Five stars.
March 2, 2019
Final Exam by Carol J. Perry is the eighth A Witch City Mystery. Lee Barrett is a field reporter for WICH-TV in Salem, Massachusetts. Thanks to a tip, Lee is the first reporter on the scene when an old mustang and body are pulled from North Shore Granite Works quarry. When Aunt Ibby sees the news report, Lee notices that she has a reaction to the news. However, Lee can tell that she is not ready to talk. Ibby is busy preparing for the upcoming class reunion for the Class of 1974 and Lee has been roped into helping with the preparations. Lee continues to dig for information on the body brought up in the quarry and learns it is related to a cold missing person’s case that Detective Pet Mondello is investigating. When Aunt Ibby comes under suspicion, Lee begins researching her aunt’s classmates. With the help of O’Ryan, her cat, and her scrying abilities, Lee probes into the past in the hopes of excavating the killer.
It is May in Salem, Massachusetts. Lee and her camera woman, Francine Hunter are tracking down a lead and hope to get a juicy story. They find police divers exploring a quarry and Lee scoops other reporters when they find a mustang with bones inside about 120 twenty feet down. Unfortunately, the body turns out to be an old flame of Aunt Ibby’s who disappeared before their high school graduation. All this time, It was believed the victim had taken off after an altercation with his father. Lee begins having visions of the past which lead her to identifying the killer. Carol J. Perry’s writing style is informal writing style which makes Final Exam a pleasure to read. The story has good flow with gentle pacing. I like the variety of characters in A Witch City Mystery series with O’Ryan being my favorite. He is an astute cat who aids Lee in solving her crimes. It was cute how O’Ryan had a friend to play with in this story, and they managed to cause some misdirection and mischief. There are plenty of enjoyable moments between the characters. Lee’s scrying abilities are integrated into the storyline along with a tarot reading from her friend, River North. Her tarot card readings are always helpful. The mystery was intriguing because it involved a cold case. There are pointed clues to aid readers in solving the crime. Past misdeeds have a way of coming back to haunt us. I was appreciative of the epilogue that wrapped up the mystery. Final Exam can be read alone if you have not read any of the previous A Witch City Mysteries. I do want to let readers know that there is foul language scattered throughout the story which is unusual for a cozy mystery. Included in the book are recipes for ginger pancakes, grape nuts pudding and Lee’s bread dipping sauce. Final Exam transports readers to Salem as Lee probes into the past to excavate a killer.
It is May in Salem, Massachusetts. Lee and her camera woman, Francine Hunter are tracking down a lead and hope to get a juicy story. They find police divers exploring a quarry and Lee scoops other reporters when they find a mustang with bones inside about 120 twenty feet down. Unfortunately, the body turns out to be an old flame of Aunt Ibby’s who disappeared before their high school graduation. All this time, It was believed the victim had taken off after an altercation with his father. Lee begins having visions of the past which lead her to identifying the killer. Carol J. Perry’s writing style is informal writing style which makes Final Exam a pleasure to read. The story has good flow with gentle pacing. I like the variety of characters in A Witch City Mystery series with O’Ryan being my favorite. He is an astute cat who aids Lee in solving her crimes. It was cute how O’Ryan had a friend to play with in this story, and they managed to cause some misdirection and mischief. There are plenty of enjoyable moments between the characters. Lee’s scrying abilities are integrated into the storyline along with a tarot reading from her friend, River North. Her tarot card readings are always helpful. The mystery was intriguing because it involved a cold case. There are pointed clues to aid readers in solving the crime. Past misdeeds have a way of coming back to haunt us. I was appreciative of the epilogue that wrapped up the mystery. Final Exam can be read alone if you have not read any of the previous A Witch City Mysteries. I do want to let readers know that there is foul language scattered throughout the story which is unusual for a cozy mystery. Included in the book are recipes for ginger pancakes, grape nuts pudding and Lee’s bread dipping sauce. Final Exam transports readers to Salem as Lee probes into the past to excavate a killer.
March 10, 2019
Salem's best field reporter, Lee Barrett, is on the job thanks to an anonymous tip when the local police find a 1970s era sports car in the water near the cliffs, which local kids used to dive off of on a dare. Lee's love, policeman Pete Mondello, is not on the case, but wouldn't give her information even if he was. So it's up to Lee to figure out what's what when there are human remains found in the vehicle when they bring it up from the water.
In the meantime, Lee's Aunt Ibby and her friends are working hard on their 45th high school reunion. When Lee finds out the body in the car is connected to Pete's cold case of a missing person, and Ibby's former boyfriend, things turn difficult, and it takes all of Lee's investigative powers to get to the bottom of things.
I sound like a broken record when I review this series, but each book is better than the last one. I love Lee and the way she goes about her job with such abandon. She savors every assignment she gets, and she does a great job with her stories. Her relationship with Pete is perfect. She and Ibby are perfect housemates, along with their cat O'Ryan, and I feel like this book brought them closer together.
This book is wonderfully plotted and it mixed the present with the past perfectly. I loved getting a look at Aunt Ibby as a high school student. Of course there is the added part of Lee's visions, which always add a great flair to the books. The worst part of the book was when I finished it and I thought, "There are no more pages. I want there to be more pages."
I highly recommend this series for lovers of magical books. There is the added bonus of Lee's job, which reminds me of my years as a journalist and makes me smile. This is one of those books that I didn't want to put down. There are some series that you get so caught up in that you just can't wait until the next one comes out. For me, that series is the Witch City mysteries.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
In the meantime, Lee's Aunt Ibby and her friends are working hard on their 45th high school reunion. When Lee finds out the body in the car is connected to Pete's cold case of a missing person, and Ibby's former boyfriend, things turn difficult, and it takes all of Lee's investigative powers to get to the bottom of things.
I sound like a broken record when I review this series, but each book is better than the last one. I love Lee and the way she goes about her job with such abandon. She savors every assignment she gets, and she does a great job with her stories. Her relationship with Pete is perfect. She and Ibby are perfect housemates, along with their cat O'Ryan, and I feel like this book brought them closer together.
This book is wonderfully plotted and it mixed the present with the past perfectly. I loved getting a look at Aunt Ibby as a high school student. Of course there is the added part of Lee's visions, which always add a great flair to the books. The worst part of the book was when I finished it and I thought, "There are no more pages. I want there to be more pages."
I highly recommend this series for lovers of magical books. There is the added bonus of Lee's job, which reminds me of my years as a journalist and makes me smile. This is one of those books that I didn't want to put down. There are some series that you get so caught up in that you just can't wait until the next one comes out. For me, that series is the Witch City mysteries.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
March 11, 2019
I pre-ordered this book as I have read all the previous books and this series is a favorite. The books take place in Salem Massachusetts which is a great setting.
Lee is now a field reporter for a tv station. She is on the scene due to a tip when a red 1970's Mustang is pulled up from a gravel pit. Is there a skeleton in the car? If so, there must be a cold case reporting the missing person. She is good at her new job. She beats the competition to the scenes many times.
Lee has evolved during the series. She started as a fake psychic for the tv station when she filled in for a murdered psychic. Then she taught television production at an Art Academy for several years. Now she is a new field reporter for a tv station.
Some other things I like about the series and there are quite a few things I like. First of all the location and main character which I have mentioned. Next Aunt Ibby who is Lee's aunt and she lives with her. I like how the author portrays Aunt Ibby as a smart, tech savvy librarian. Aunt Ibby is involved with planning her 1974 class reunion with her friends and classmates. Next, O'Ryan the cat who is a real character in the book and not just on the cover to sell books. He was the murdered psychic from book 1 cat and came to live with Lee. He is more than a household pet. The plots are always very good and varied. There is much more I like about this series but this is a start.
Since this is the 8th book, you do not need to start at the beginning of the series. You will not be lost. However, there is a lot of good reading in the previous books. The first book of the series has been my favorite but I feel this book is right up there and one of the best in the series. It was a fast read that I read quickly because I was enjoying it.
Lee is now a field reporter for a tv station. She is on the scene due to a tip when a red 1970's Mustang is pulled up from a gravel pit. Is there a skeleton in the car? If so, there must be a cold case reporting the missing person. She is good at her new job. She beats the competition to the scenes many times.
Lee has evolved during the series. She started as a fake psychic for the tv station when she filled in for a murdered psychic. Then she taught television production at an Art Academy for several years. Now she is a new field reporter for a tv station.
Some other things I like about the series and there are quite a few things I like. First of all the location and main character which I have mentioned. Next Aunt Ibby who is Lee's aunt and she lives with her. I like how the author portrays Aunt Ibby as a smart, tech savvy librarian. Aunt Ibby is involved with planning her 1974 class reunion with her friends and classmates. Next, O'Ryan the cat who is a real character in the book and not just on the cover to sell books. He was the murdered psychic from book 1 cat and came to live with Lee. He is more than a household pet. The plots are always very good and varied. There is much more I like about this series but this is a start.
Since this is the 8th book, you do not need to start at the beginning of the series. You will not be lost. However, there is a lot of good reading in the previous books. The first book of the series has been my favorite but I feel this book is right up there and one of the best in the series. It was a fast read that I read quickly because I was enjoying it.
February 16, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book. I enjoy this series mostly because it takes place in Salem, MA. This outing felt like it went in a lot of different directions then BAM, a rapid conclusion. I will continue with the series but this one did not feel as cohesive as previous installments.
March 2, 2019
I really enjoy this series. I have read all the books in the series and am always pleased with Carol J. Perry’s clever story line, interesting characters and side stories. It’s Lee Barrett's Aunt Ibby’s 45th high school reunion and she is the chairperson of the planning committee. Lee is happily working as a TV field reporter for WICH TV and is assisting her aunt with the reunion planning where necessary. Lee and her camera woman follow a tip and ends up being the lead reporter on the finding and recovering an abandoned vintage Mustang found in the the quarry. Of course there are remains in the car and when she told Aunt Ibby about the car, she seems very upset, but says nothing. With Lee's special abilities as a scryer (seeing visions in glass), River's tarot card readings, O'Ryan, her psychic cat and her police detective boyfriend, Pete, Lee knows that this mystery needs to be solved with all their input.
The characters in this story are one of the things that make it so enjoyable for me. I really like Lee as a main character. She is smart, caring, loyal and has wonderful skills and support and what every reporter needs, a little luck. Aunt Ibby is still a lovable, quirky character, but has a different role in this story. I still enjoyed her role and liked seeing that she is not only nurturing to Lee, but to her friends as well. I continue to enjoy the easy, relationship that Lee and Pete share. I wish there had been more of River in this story. She was almost non-existent. The mystery was well plotted with a few twists. I did figure out who the murderer was early in the story, but I still enjoyed the story; following the trails, learning about Aunt Ibby's past and discovering the motive. I was happy to see that my guess was accurate, as I really did not like that particular character. When I finished the story I was very satisfied with the plot and how the story played out. I will definitely continue reading this series to see what is next for Lee, Aunt Ibby, Pete and the rest of the characters. This is a series that has not disappointed and I recommend it to lovers of cozy mysteries. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon my request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
The characters in this story are one of the things that make it so enjoyable for me. I really like Lee as a main character. She is smart, caring, loyal and has wonderful skills and support and what every reporter needs, a little luck. Aunt Ibby is still a lovable, quirky character, but has a different role in this story. I still enjoyed her role and liked seeing that she is not only nurturing to Lee, but to her friends as well. I continue to enjoy the easy, relationship that Lee and Pete share. I wish there had been more of River in this story. She was almost non-existent. The mystery was well plotted with a few twists. I did figure out who the murderer was early in the story, but I still enjoyed the story; following the trails, learning about Aunt Ibby's past and discovering the motive. I was happy to see that my guess was accurate, as I really did not like that particular character. When I finished the story I was very satisfied with the plot and how the story played out. I will definitely continue reading this series to see what is next for Lee, Aunt Ibby, Pete and the rest of the characters. This is a series that has not disappointed and I recommend it to lovers of cozy mysteries. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon my request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
March 5, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!
I will say, I haven't read the previous seven books in this series, which can be a daunting thing. Will the characters come to life, or will there be things from previous books that I've missed and need to know? But all in all I felt like this series was very welcoming to newcomers, and it definitely made me want to read more. The author made the characters very believable, and the course of the mystery flowed with us getting to know all of them better. Of course I adored Lee, the main character, but her Aunt Ibby and boyfriend Pete made for great characters too. There were background characters like Betsy and Francine that I'd like to know more about too.
The mystery was great! I had a hunch on it, but it played out well and the hints were just enough. It was also really interesting to get a cozy mystery from a reporter's POV, because most of the times the sleuths don't have the greatest access to information and yet Lee had some good sources and went around things a little differently. Very refreshing!
If you like your cozies with a splash of magic, cats and good old fashioned tip offs, then try this series! I need to go back and read the previous books now :)
I will say, I haven't read the previous seven books in this series, which can be a daunting thing. Will the characters come to life, or will there be things from previous books that I've missed and need to know? But all in all I felt like this series was very welcoming to newcomers, and it definitely made me want to read more. The author made the characters very believable, and the course of the mystery flowed with us getting to know all of them better. Of course I adored Lee, the main character, but her Aunt Ibby and boyfriend Pete made for great characters too. There were background characters like Betsy and Francine that I'd like to know more about too.
The mystery was great! I had a hunch on it, but it played out well and the hints were just enough. It was also really interesting to get a cozy mystery from a reporter's POV, because most of the times the sleuths don't have the greatest access to information and yet Lee had some good sources and went around things a little differently. Very refreshing!
If you like your cozies with a splash of magic, cats and good old fashioned tip offs, then try this series! I need to go back and read the previous books now :)
December 25, 2020
This series continues to be exactly what I expect it to be. Nothing less, nothing more.
In that sense it is absolutely perfect.
I liked that we got a little bit more info about Ibby's previous life, but somehow the whole crime and the multiple characters involved made all of it feel a bit forced and superficial.
When Lee is working and reporting there are moments of repetition that make me slightly annoyed. I don't know how many times "spent bullet" was said, for example. Like, geez, I got it the first three times. Move on.
I'm still hoping for some kind of development between Lee and Pete.
There's hardly any excitement to be had between them. They're rock solid, but also rather boring. No real sparks flying (it's not that kind of book series), but also no drama or insecurities - which is both nice, but, yeah... A bit boring.
They should 100% get married the way they're going. They're already like an old, married couple. It's like they've been together for 20+ years. 😆
As I'm getting closer to the last available audiobook in the series I feel like, yes, it is time for something else soon. Something a bit more challenging. However, I will certainly keep in touch with this series in the future.
In that sense it is absolutely perfect.
I liked that we got a little bit more info about Ibby's previous life, but somehow the whole crime and the multiple characters involved made all of it feel a bit forced and superficial.
When Lee is working and reporting there are moments of repetition that make me slightly annoyed. I don't know how many times "spent bullet" was said, for example. Like, geez, I got it the first three times. Move on.
I'm still hoping for some kind of development between Lee and Pete.
There's hardly any excitement to be had between them. They're rock solid, but also rather boring. No real sparks flying (it's not that kind of book series), but also no drama or insecurities - which is both nice, but, yeah... A bit boring.
They should 100% get married the way they're going. They're already like an old, married couple. It's like they've been together for 20+ years. 😆
As I'm getting closer to the last available audiobook in the series I feel like, yes, it is time for something else soon. Something a bit more challenging. However, I will certainly keep in touch with this series in the future.
February 23, 2019
I came into this series late; in fact, this is only the second book I’ve read. I have never felt I have missed much, if anything, and I think this latest could be an excellent starting point. Speaking of this book, I really enjoyed this second book more than I did the one I read before. There was more depth, and I really didn’t figure out who had committed the murder until the end. I had my suspicions on a couple of the characters, but I didn’t know for sure. This series has an innocent, 50s vibe to it which I think many people will enjoy; it’s a cozy, with a teeny, tiny paranormal element, that transports you back to…simpler times. Maybe that’s just me, but that’s what it feels like. I really enjoyed this latest because of the great writing, interesting characters, and tight plot, and I think you will, too, whether you are new to the series or a regular. I highly recommend this book! I was provided the e-book which I voluntarily reviewed.
February 26, 2019
A sprightly and heartwarming cozy mystery with a suspenseful plot plus romance (then and now), FINAL EXAM is Book #8 in the Witch City Mystery Series (the reference, of course, is to Salem, Massachusetts, the setting of this delightfully engaging series). Lee (Maralee) Barrett lost her folks at a young age but thankfully was raised by her Aunt Ibby (Isobel), long-time town Librarian, with whom Lee still lives, in an upstairs apartment her aunt had renovated for Lee's use. As a fairly new on-camera field reporter at WICH-TV, the local station, Lee is frequently out and about with cameraperson Francine, but they could not have expected the consequences when they follow an anonymous tip to an abandoned quarry outside of town. The tipster claimed a car was submerged in the quarry, and that proved out; but there is far more to that situation than anybody expected. The discovery inspires grief, mystery, and fear, because what happened stayed concealed for forty-five years, and the individual responsible might well be living among the townspeople of Salem still. Now a portion of the truth is revealed; what will happen next?
Author Carol Perry keeps her readers glued to the page with excitement, intrigue, suspense, and yes, romance. FINAL EXAM is a cozy mystery I couldn't stop reading.
Author Carol Perry keeps her readers glued to the page with excitement, intrigue, suspense, and yes, romance. FINAL EXAM is a cozy mystery I couldn't stop reading.
February 19, 2019
Final Exam by Carol J. Perry, is the 8th book in the Witch City Mysteries, and another great addition. I love this series, the books are never dull. This book does not disappoint. Lee Barrett now has her dream job, a field reporter on WICH-TV, in Salem, MA. Lee is covering a tip about police divers looking for something. Lee is excited to be the first reporter on the scene when they pull out an old car. Lee's Aunt Libby is acting strange when she hears about the car, as her and her former classmates plan their 45th high school reunion. I really enjoy the relationship between Lee and her detective boyfriend Pete, and Orion, the psychic cat. This book has everything you want in a cozy mystery, plus a little paranormal thrown in. The story kept me intrigued and reading page after page. I am looking forward to reading Lee's next adventure.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
January 13, 2019
Final Exam is a captivating story that will leave the reader wanting more.
Lee is looking for a story to help her career as an investigative reporter. When a lead takes her to a gravel pit, she has no idea of the secrets that will soon begin to unravel.
I was captured by the story from beginning to end and I'm looking forward to reading more in the series.
Lee is looking for a story to help her career as an investigative reporter. When a lead takes her to a gravel pit, she has no idea of the secrets that will soon begin to unravel.
I was captured by the story from beginning to end and I'm looking forward to reading more in the series.
March 24, 2024
Time for Phil and Lee to move forward, they’re practically living together and Orion loves Phil more than Lee sometimes. Oh and there was a murder that’s connected to Lee’s aunt just as her H. S. Reunion comes around.
March 8, 2019
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Great Escapes Book Tours. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Final Exam by Carol J. Perry is a fabulous mystery about a cold case. This book is the first book I have read by this author and in this series. Lee Barrett is the female sleuth she is a pretty cool character. She is a reporter, and her boyfriend is a detective. Lee is very determined to help her aunt find out what happened to her old boyfriend.
What I like:
Lee reminds me of Nancy Drew.
Lee comes up with a book title like the Nancy Drew books for the case that she is working.
The mystery was pretty cool and very different.
I felt bad for the aunt since her high school boyfriend won't return as she thought he would.
The cat that Lee and Aunt Ibby have is pretty funny.
What I dislike:
The one thing that I didn't like is that Lee's daily tasks take over the story at times.
Five Stars
Final Exam by Carol J. Perry is a great cozy and one that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. Ms. Perry did a fantastic job with the mystery. It kept me guessing. The cast of characters is awesome. I will definitely at some point come back and read the rest of the series.
So, if you haven't read a book from A Witchy City Mystery series, then you should. I recommend it, especially if you like cozy paranormal mysteries.
Other Books in the Series
Tour Schedule
March 4 – The Montana Bookaholic - CHARACTER GUEST POST
March 4 – Readeropolis – SPOTLIGHT
March 4 – Carla Loves To Read – REVIEW
March 5 – The Book's the Thing – REVIEW, RECIPE
March 5 – The Pulp and Mystery Shelf – AUTHOR INTERVIEW
March 5 – Paranormal and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
March 6 – Laura’s Interests – REVIEW
March 6 – StoreyBook Reviews – GUEST POST
March 6 – Maureen's Musings – SPOTLIGHT
March 7 – The Avid Reader – REVIEW
March 7 – I'm Into Books – SPOTLIGHT
March 7 – Sneaky the Library Cat's Blog – CHARACTER INTERVIEW
March 8 – Baroness' Book Trove – REVIEW, RECIPE
March 8 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT
March 8 – Christa Reads and Writes – REVIEW
March 9 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT
March 9 – MJB Reviewers – AUTHOR INTERVIEW
March 9 – Island Confidential – SPOTLIGHT
March 10 – Melina's Book Blog – REVIEW
March 10 – Celticlady's Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
March 10 – A Wytch's Book Review Blog – CHARACTER INTERVIEW
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Tour Giveaway
Prize: (3) Print Copy - Final Exam (A Witch City Mystery) by Carol J. Perry (U.S. Only)
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Final Exam by Carol J. Perry is a fabulous mystery about a cold case. This book is the first book I have read by this author and in this series. Lee Barrett is the female sleuth she is a pretty cool character. She is a reporter, and her boyfriend is a detective. Lee is very determined to help her aunt find out what happened to her old boyfriend.
What I like:
Lee reminds me of Nancy Drew.
Lee comes up with a book title like the Nancy Drew books for the case that she is working.
The mystery was pretty cool and very different.
I felt bad for the aunt since her high school boyfriend won't return as she thought he would.
The cat that Lee and Aunt Ibby have is pretty funny.
What I dislike:
The one thing that I didn't like is that Lee's daily tasks take over the story at times.
Five Stars
Final Exam by Carol J. Perry is a great cozy and one that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. Ms. Perry did a fantastic job with the mystery. It kept me guessing. The cast of characters is awesome. I will definitely at some point come back and read the rest of the series.
So, if you haven't read a book from A Witchy City Mystery series, then you should. I recommend it, especially if you like cozy paranormal mysteries.
Other Books in the Series
Tour Schedule
March 4 – The Montana Bookaholic - CHARACTER GUEST POST
March 4 – Readeropolis – SPOTLIGHT
March 4 – Carla Loves To Read – REVIEW
March 5 – The Book's the Thing – REVIEW, RECIPE
March 5 – The Pulp and Mystery Shelf – AUTHOR INTERVIEW
March 5 – Paranormal and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
March 6 – Laura’s Interests – REVIEW
March 6 – StoreyBook Reviews – GUEST POST
March 6 – Maureen's Musings – SPOTLIGHT
March 7 – The Avid Reader – REVIEW
March 7 – I'm Into Books – SPOTLIGHT
March 7 – Sneaky the Library Cat's Blog – CHARACTER INTERVIEW
March 8 – Baroness' Book Trove – REVIEW, RECIPE
March 8 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT
March 8 – Christa Reads and Writes – REVIEW
March 9 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT
March 9 – MJB Reviewers – AUTHOR INTERVIEW
March 9 – Island Confidential – SPOTLIGHT
March 10 – Melina's Book Blog – REVIEW
March 10 – Celticlady's Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
March 10 – A Wytch's Book Review Blog – CHARACTER INTERVIEW
Have you signed up to be a Tour Host? Click Here Find Details and Sign Up Today!
Tour Giveaway
Prize: (3) Print Copy - Final Exam (A Witch City Mystery) by Carol J. Perry (U.S. Only)
Tour Organized by:
To find all the tour information click the banner at the top of the page.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Final Exam by Carol J. Perry. Don't forget to enter the giveaway to win (3) Print Copy - Final Exam (A Witch City Mystery) by Carol J. Perry (U.S. Only).
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
January 14, 2019
The eight books in the witches city series find Lee Barrett and Francine tracking the field of grasses and other weeds to an old quarry as they have a tip of Police activity at the quarry. They find underwater divers present and learned there that an old rooster has been located about 100 feet down on a ledge. There is a skeleton in the car. Lee is excited as she has an exclusive. Her boyfriend and Aunt Ibby have very different reactions to the news. Aunt Ibby is planning her high school 45th reunion with a group of her classmates. Lee has visions of what happened at the quarry. O'Ryan begins to show Lee places and actions she needs to do. A great deal of her Aunt's past comes to light along with Lee's Mother. Who was the skeleton? Why was the car pushed into the quarry? I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND SERIES.
Recipes are included
Disclosure: Thanks to Kensington Books for copy through NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
Recipes are included
Disclosure: Thanks to Kensington Books for copy through NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
March 1, 2019
Protagonist Lee (Maralee) Barrett is a field reporter for Salem's WICH-TV news station. She lives with her Aunt Ibby (Isobel Russell) in a three-story Victorian walk-up, her little apartment being on the third floor. She has a boyfriend who is a local police investigator currently working a cold case, which is handy! Lee and her main camera person, Francine, get a tip regarding a sunken Mustang and manage to scoop the story being first on scene. The scoop is perfect for boyfriend Pete, not so for Aunt Ibby currently in the throes of working with her high school reunion committee for their 45th.
This is a fun little romp into a cozy that garners fascination quickly and keeps engagement throughout with one development after another in a well-plotted cold case mystery that begins to turn topical fairly quick. The supernatural belongs to Lee who possesses a special "gift," which she apparently revealed to Pete. However, the psychic belongs to the resident kitty, O'Ryan. Mysterious cat, O'Ryan. Must say, the characters in this novel are all appealing and I enjoyed the author's writing style.
While the mystery of the who is easy to solve, the narrative is still curiously compelling, including Lee's "on the scene" or studio spots. Book 8 functions quite well as a standalone and kept my attention engaged throughout. Lee is not the interrogation of the suspect type sleuth, albeit investigative journalist, she is pretty subtle. Touristy tidbits of Salem provided location information and the dialogue felt natural.
Overall, an enjoyable and fast-paced read and a logical and satisfying conclusion. I had a problem with the three-story walk-up as descriptions of it had me confused more than once. Otherwise, I'm looking forward to book 9. I received this ebook download from the publisher and NetGalley and greatly appreciated the opportunity to read and review. Recommended for cozy mystery fans, fans of the supernatural kitty characters, and light reads.
See my full review at https://rosepointpublishing.com/2019/...
This is a fun little romp into a cozy that garners fascination quickly and keeps engagement throughout with one development after another in a well-plotted cold case mystery that begins to turn topical fairly quick. The supernatural belongs to Lee who possesses a special "gift," which she apparently revealed to Pete. However, the psychic belongs to the resident kitty, O'Ryan. Mysterious cat, O'Ryan. Must say, the characters in this novel are all appealing and I enjoyed the author's writing style.
While the mystery of the who is easy to solve, the narrative is still curiously compelling, including Lee's "on the scene" or studio spots. Book 8 functions quite well as a standalone and kept my attention engaged throughout. Lee is not the interrogation of the suspect type sleuth, albeit investigative journalist, she is pretty subtle. Touristy tidbits of Salem provided location information and the dialogue felt natural.
Overall, an enjoyable and fast-paced read and a logical and satisfying conclusion. I had a problem with the three-story walk-up as descriptions of it had me confused more than once. Otherwise, I'm looking forward to book 9. I received this ebook download from the publisher and NetGalley and greatly appreciated the opportunity to read and review. Recommended for cozy mystery fans, fans of the supernatural kitty characters, and light reads.
See my full review at https://rosepointpublishing.com/2019/...
August 3, 2020
I love this series and this book was no exception. The books are well written, the characters come alive on the pages, and the mystery is always great. Plus I love the bits of magic that seem entirely plausible to me- after all, this is Salem. The romance parts are just enough. However, something in this book drove me crazy. These books take place in Salem, Massachusetts. This one is early May. Lee is walking through her aunt's garden through the hydrangea, Queen Anne's Lace, lilacs, violets, forsythia (page 19). It is impossible for any of those flowers to bloom at the same time anywhere and especially not a New England spring. Forsythia should be done by mid April or so. Queen Anne's Lace is a late summer flower. Hydrangea is probably July. Lilacs and violets are possible. Later, several mentions are made to Goldenrod blooming and causing Lee's allergies to flare. Goldenrod doesn't appear until August- September. And Aunt Ibby's guest was picking pole beans! You can't even plant them until late May in the north. These flowers were really not necessary additions. Tulips and daffodils could have been the flowers. Picky, picky! A proof reader or the editor should have caught those errors.
So with that out of the way, I loved how the story delved into Aunt Ibby's past and focused on her high school class of 1974. A red Mustang is dredged out of the local granite pit and it proves to have belonged to Aunt Ibby's high school boyfriend who disappeared in 1974. Lee gets involved in the murder mystery both as a reporter and as an amateur sleuth. I half expected who the murderer was but waffled between two people.
So with that out of the way, I loved how the story delved into Aunt Ibby's past and focused on her high school class of 1974. A red Mustang is dredged out of the local granite pit and it proves to have belonged to Aunt Ibby's high school boyfriend who disappeared in 1974. Lee gets involved in the murder mystery both as a reporter and as an amateur sleuth. I half expected who the murderer was but waffled between two people.
January 19, 2019
Final Exam is another great mystery in the Witch City mystery series by Carol J. Perry. I always look forward to new books in this series, mostly because I really love the characters, Lee, Aunt Ibby, and their cat, O'Ryan. There's nothing about those characters that I don't like. I love how the author articulates O'Ryan's personality because it is so accurate for a cat. The murder mystery in this book kept me interested and so did all of the aspects that weren't part of the murder mystery. I hope we get to see more of Aunt Ibby's friends from high school in future books. They are definitely characters I want to learn more about. I can't wait for the next book in this series to see what's next for Lee, Aunt Ibby, and everyone else.
Note: I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my fair and honest opinion.
Note: I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my fair and honest opinion.
March 13, 2019
Final Exam was my first introduction to Lee Barrett and O’Ryan, but I am so pleased to have found them! In this story, Lee is the lead reporter covering a cold case – human remains found in an old car. It doesn’t take long to realize that the cause of death may have been murder, and the culprit may still be around.
Final Exam has a fun cast of characters, especially O’Ryan. I love cats in cozies, and a psychic one is just that much better. The mystery itself was very well done and I really enjoyed this book.
Final Exam is book #8 in the Witch City Mystery series, but you can definitely read this as a standalone. I would have liked to have had a little more background on the characters before I started this one, but I plan on going back to the beginning of the series so I will have that soon.
Final Exam has a fun cast of characters, especially O’Ryan. I love cats in cozies, and a psychic one is just that much better. The mystery itself was very well done and I really enjoyed this book.
Final Exam is book #8 in the Witch City Mystery series, but you can definitely read this as a standalone. I would have liked to have had a little more background on the characters before I started this one, but I plan on going back to the beginning of the series so I will have that soon.
August 27, 2019
2019 bk 267. Carol Perry's 8th book is centered around a high school reunion - class of 1974. It was a good theme that included a missing person, the clique composed of Libbie's aunt (most beautiful), and the jock, the organizer, the politician, and finally everybody's friend. This was the most intense for me - I think maybe because I graduated high school in the 1970's- and the people in the book are described as the 3 letter word, which I don't feel. When diver's find a red Ford Mustang in what had been the local quarry swimming hole, secrets hidden since 1974 are revealed.
January 10, 2019
Loved this book! Each book in the series is better than the one before. Lee is a reporter for a local tv station who is dating Pete,a local police detective. Lee was raised by her aunt and shares a house with her. When she begins looking into the background of a news story she quickly finds that it intersects with one of Pete's cases and impacts her aunt.
I love the way that Pete and Lee interact and how their relationship has progressed over the series, especially how Pete has handled Lee's scrying ability.
If you enjoy the genre, you will love this book. The author is on my must read authors' list.
I love the way that Pete and Lee interact and how their relationship has progressed over the series, especially how Pete has handled Lee's scrying ability.
If you enjoy the genre, you will love this book. The author is on my must read authors' list.
January 22, 2019
This series just keeps getting better and better, I hope it continues for a long time to come! Lee is everything you want in a main character, strong , smart, engaging, and relentless. This mystery had me so concerned one of my favorite characters did a bad bad thing, which honestly made me like this book even more. This series is truly standing the test of time.
March 4, 2022
Love this series that takes place in Salem Mass. Very good plot with great characters. This was about the planning of Ibby's class reunion and the discovery of a car from the quarry and the body in the car of Aunt Ibby's boyfriend from that class. Excellent characters and lot's of twist and turns. I love any book that takes place in Salem.
February 19, 2019
Interesting character and winding tale of the past never truly stays in the past. People try to change but secrets endure
September 2, 2022
Actual rating: 3.5. Cute enough entry into the series, but I found the mystery a little lacking. It was one of those stories that I had to make sure I didn't zone out while I was listening.
February 15, 2020
Not quite as good as the previous books. Perhaps because I don’t like the high school theme.
October 22, 2019
While Aunt Ibby and and 6 of her friends are planning a 45th class reunion, police receive an anonymous tip about a 1971? red Mustang buried under 150 ft of water at the bottom of a deep, granite pit.
I am almost embarrassed to admit that I read this series, because they seem to be written for the simple minded. The killer practically carried a "guilty" sign over his head.
In spite of murderers seemingly entering her home on a regular basis, Ibby can never remember to lock her door. Has she learned nothing from past incidents?
Investigative journalism is a form of journalism in which reporters deeply investigate a single topic of interest, such as serious crimes, political corruption, or corporate wrongdoing. An investigative journalist may spend months or years researching and preparing a report. Investigative journalism is a primary source of information. Wikipedia
Apparently Ms Perry does not know what it means to be an investigative reporter. In the past few books we have seen Lee hastily throw together fluff pieces, yet she calls this investigative journalism. (in a previous book she presented information her aunt dug up at the library for an "investigative piece" on crows. In this book she films her aunt and her friends organizing their high school reunion. Enthralling journalism!
I read cozy mysteries because they are not stressful like thrillers. However, I do wish that some authors (or should I say all authors), would credit their readers with more intelligence.
I am almost embarrassed to admit that I read this series, because they seem to be written for the simple minded. The killer practically carried a "guilty" sign over his head.
In spite of murderers seemingly entering her home on a regular basis, Ibby can never remember to lock her door. Has she learned nothing from past incidents?
Investigative journalism is a form of journalism in which reporters deeply investigate a single topic of interest, such as serious crimes, political corruption, or corporate wrongdoing. An investigative journalist may spend months or years researching and preparing a report. Investigative journalism is a primary source of information. Wikipedia
Apparently Ms Perry does not know what it means to be an investigative reporter. In the past few books we have seen Lee hastily throw together fluff pieces, yet she calls this investigative journalism. (in a previous book she presented information her aunt dug up at the library for an "investigative piece" on crows. In this book she films her aunt and her friends organizing their high school reunion. Enthralling journalism!
I read cozy mysteries because they are not stressful like thrillers. However, I do wish that some authors (or should I say all authors), would credit their readers with more intelligence.
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