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Salem B&B #3
Mrs. Morris and the Ghost of Christmas Past
Salem, Massachusetts B&B owner Charlene Morris is looking into a holiday hit-and-run, with a little help from her ghostly housemate . . .
Charlene’s parents are in town for Christmas, and her mother is driving her up a tree. Her bed-and-breakfast’s resident ghost, Jack, isn’t fond of her either—and he’s showing it with some haunting high jinks. But when Charlene takes her mom and dad out for dinner, the less-than-seasonal spirits take a deadly turn.
David Baldwin has just won a fortune in the lottery—and it adds a lot of drama to the charity auction he’s hosting at his restaurant. When he caps off the evening by playing Santa and handing out checks to some of the attendees, the mood shifts . . . and Charlene observes mysterious tensions between David and his flashy, bleached-blonde wife, his neglected teenage son from a previous marriage, and his hostile business partner, among others. And they’re only a few on the long list of potential suspects when David runs into the road and is mowed down by a fleeing motorist. Now it looks like it’s going to be homicide for the holidays . . .
Charlene’s parents are in town for Christmas, and her mother is driving her up a tree. Her bed-and-breakfast’s resident ghost, Jack, isn’t fond of her either—and he’s showing it with some haunting high jinks. But when Charlene takes her mom and dad out for dinner, the less-than-seasonal spirits take a deadly turn.
David Baldwin has just won a fortune in the lottery—and it adds a lot of drama to the charity auction he’s hosting at his restaurant. When he caps off the evening by playing Santa and handing out checks to some of the attendees, the mood shifts . . . and Charlene observes mysterious tensions between David and his flashy, bleached-blonde wife, his neglected teenage son from a previous marriage, and his hostile business partner, among others. And they’re only a few on the long list of potential suspects when David runs into the road and is mowed down by a fleeing motorist. Now it looks like it’s going to be homicide for the holidays . . .
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2020
105 people are currently reading
478 people want to read
About the author
Traci Wilton
15 books196 followersTraci Wilton is a pseudonym of authors Traci Hall and Patrice Wilton.
From contemporary seaside romances to cozy mysteries, USA Today bestselling author Traci Hall writes stories that captivate her readers. As a hybrid author with over fifty published works, Ms. Hall has a favorite story for everyone.
Mystery lovers, be on the lookout for her Salem B&B Mystery series, co-written as Traci Wilton, and her Scottish Shire series, which takes place in the seaside town of Nairn, as Traci Hall. Whether it’s her ever popular By the Sea series or a fun who-done-it, Traci finds her inspiration in sunny South Florida, by living right near the ocean.
New York Times, bestselling author, Patrice Wilton knew from the age of twelve that she wanted to write books that would take the reader to faraway places. She was born in Vancouver, Canada, and had a great need to see the world that she had read about.
Patrice became a flight attendant for seventeen years and traveled the world. At the age of forty she sat down to write her first book—in longhand! Her interests include tennis, golf, and writing stories for women of all ages.
She has more than forty books published on Amazon, and is best known as a popular romance author. She is especially proud of her best selling contemporary romance series, Paradise Cove, and Heavenly Christmas and the Wounded Warriors. Co-writing with Traci Hall, they have assumed the name Traci Wilton for the Salem B&B mystery series published with Kensington.
From contemporary seaside romances to cozy mysteries, USA Today bestselling author Traci Hall writes stories that captivate her readers. As a hybrid author with over fifty published works, Ms. Hall has a favorite story for everyone.
Mystery lovers, be on the lookout for her Salem B&B Mystery series, co-written as Traci Wilton, and her Scottish Shire series, which takes place in the seaside town of Nairn, as Traci Hall. Whether it’s her ever popular By the Sea series or a fun who-done-it, Traci finds her inspiration in sunny South Florida, by living right near the ocean.
New York Times, bestselling author, Patrice Wilton knew from the age of twelve that she wanted to write books that would take the reader to faraway places. She was born in Vancouver, Canada, and had a great need to see the world that she had read about.
Patrice became a flight attendant for seventeen years and traveled the world. At the age of forty she sat down to write her first book—in longhand! Her interests include tennis, golf, and writing stories for women of all ages.
She has more than forty books published on Amazon, and is best known as a popular romance author. She is especially proud of her best selling contemporary romance series, Paradise Cove, and Heavenly Christmas and the Wounded Warriors. Co-writing with Traci Hall, they have assumed the name Traci Wilton for the Salem B&B mystery series published with Kensington.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
February 3, 2025
This is a Christmas cozy mystery, and it is the third book in A Salem B&B Mystery series. I have read the first two books in this series before picking up this book. This book as more of Jack the ghost character in it. I love Jack's character. Charlene's parents are visiting in this book, and them visiting brings on problems. I love the characters in this book, and in this book there is a ton of new characters. I really enjoyed the mystery part of this book, and I think having Christmas in this book was really nice. I also love the cover of this book. I hope the next book brings in more Ghost characters into the book because I love the ghost parts of this series. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Kensington Publishing Corporation) or author (Traci Wilton) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review about how I feel about this book, and I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
September 30, 2020
This is the third installment in Traci Wilton's Salem B&B Mystery series. Charlene Morris moved to Salem, Massachusetts, for a fresh start after her husband's tragic death. She is now the proud owner of a B&B and is looking forward to her first Christmas in her new home. Her parents are also visiting, and she takes them out to eat at a local restaurant where she witnesses the restaurant owner, David Baldwin, being run over by a car. David had just won the lottery and was dealing with a cheating wife and several people who thought they deserved some of his money. While trying to solve the murder, Charlene also does her best to raise money for a local children's home.
The Salem B&B Mysteries is quickly becoming one of my favorite cozy mystery series. I enjoyed this third book immensely. The characters are engaging, the setting charming, and I was unable to solve the mystery, which is always a plus. The writing style flows effortlessly and the wintry Christmas atmosphere will leave you longing for the holiday season. Charlene is a character that you can definitely root for. She's kind-hearted, intelligent, and determined. I enjoy her interactions with Jack. It was also fun getting to meet her parents. They really add to the story and I would love to see them again in future installments.
All in all, a delightful Christmas themed cozy mystery. I just read the synopsis of the fourth book and look forward to reading it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Salem B&B Mysteries is quickly becoming one of my favorite cozy mystery series. I enjoyed this third book immensely. The characters are engaging, the setting charming, and I was unable to solve the mystery, which is always a plus. The writing style flows effortlessly and the wintry Christmas atmosphere will leave you longing for the holiday season. Charlene is a character that you can definitely root for. She's kind-hearted, intelligent, and determined. I enjoy her interactions with Jack. It was also fun getting to meet her parents. They really add to the story and I would love to see them again in future installments.
All in all, a delightful Christmas themed cozy mystery. I just read the synopsis of the fourth book and look forward to reading it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 30, 2021
Mrs. Morris and the Ghost of Christmas Past by Traci Wilton is the third book in the paranormal cozy A Salem B&B Mystery series. Each book in the series holds it’s own mystery that is fully solved so all books can be read as a standalone if choosing to do so. There will be some character development that carries over book to book though for those that follow the series from the beginning.
The first book of the series introduced readers to Charlene Morris who after losing her husband had needed a fresh start in new surroundings so she decided to move from Chicago to New England. Charlene found a wonderful historic mansion in Salem and thought starting her own bed and breakfast in the touristy town would be the change she needed. What Charlene didn’t expect was to have her new B&B come with it’s own resident ghost.
Charlene’s first experience trying to help solve a murder came when she found that her resident ghost, Jack, had been murdered and needed help finding his killer. Now Charlene is faced with her third murder to be solved since coming to Salem when Charlene takes her visiting parents out for a holiday dinner. While out that night a man runs into the road only to be mowed down by a vehicle that then flees the scene and with many potential murderers on the loose Charlene needs to work fast.
Being someone that loves to read across multiple genres one of my favorite things to find is when authors blur the lines between them. Finding that the Salem B&B Mystery series had the touch of paranormal I had to pick it up and have now been following since the first book. The series has a great setting in Salem too with it’s rich history behind it giving many great set ups for the authors. Definitely a fun series I’d recommend to those that enjoy a quirky cozy with a touch of paranormal to it.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
The first book of the series introduced readers to Charlene Morris who after losing her husband had needed a fresh start in new surroundings so she decided to move from Chicago to New England. Charlene found a wonderful historic mansion in Salem and thought starting her own bed and breakfast in the touristy town would be the change she needed. What Charlene didn’t expect was to have her new B&B come with it’s own resident ghost.
Charlene’s first experience trying to help solve a murder came when she found that her resident ghost, Jack, had been murdered and needed help finding his killer. Now Charlene is faced with her third murder to be solved since coming to Salem when Charlene takes her visiting parents out for a holiday dinner. While out that night a man runs into the road only to be mowed down by a vehicle that then flees the scene and with many potential murderers on the loose Charlene needs to work fast.
Being someone that loves to read across multiple genres one of my favorite things to find is when authors blur the lines between them. Finding that the Salem B&B Mystery series had the touch of paranormal I had to pick it up and have now been following since the first book. The series has a great setting in Salem too with it’s rich history behind it giving many great set ups for the authors. Definitely a fun series I’d recommend to those that enjoy a quirky cozy with a touch of paranormal to it.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
July 23, 2020
Mrs. Morris and the Ghost if Christmas Past is an exciting addition to this series .
The holidays are approaching and Charlene is spending them with her parents, who are staying at her B B.
When a tragic murder takes place during a holiday gathering, the suspect list is long. The victim, a recent lottery winner, made several promises to share his wealth, however, he seemed to come up short.
When his wife makes the bad situation even worse, Charlene does her best to see that a local children’s home doesn’t have to close its doors.
This story was exciting and kept me guessing until the end. I am excited to see what’s next for Charlene.
The holidays are approaching and Charlene is spending them with her parents, who are staying at her B B.
When a tragic murder takes place during a holiday gathering, the suspect list is long. The victim, a recent lottery winner, made several promises to share his wealth, however, he seemed to come up short.
When his wife makes the bad situation even worse, Charlene does her best to see that a local children’s home doesn’t have to close its doors.
This story was exciting and kept me guessing until the end. I am excited to see what’s next for Charlene.
August 6, 2020
This is an entertaining, holiday cozy mystery. Charlene is settling into her bed and breakfast as well as the town of Salem and is hosting her parents for Christmas. Of course, as things are prone to happen in a cozy mystery, the holidays don't go as planned. The death of a local restaurant owner leads Charlene to question whether foul play was involved. The more questions she asks, the more she comes to realize that he might not have been the person she thought he was. Charlene's mission is to find out who killed the restauranteur, but also raise money for a children's organization that lost out on a huge donation as the result of his death. Charlene's parents are a nice diversion. Her mom is the type that comes off a bit harsh and critical but in reality, loved her daughter and wants what's best for her. Charlene's relationship with Sam is moving along. I realize that the series is premised on the fact that her bed and breakfast has a ghost, but I personally feel like the author needs to resolve the romantic feelings Charlene has for Jack as they are unrealistic and don't really move Charlene forward in her life.
The mystery was well done with plenty of suspects and red-herrings thrown into the mix to confuse and misdirect the reader. It worked on me because I was surprised by the killer's identity.
I'm looking forward to seeing where the author takes this series in the next book so I will definitely be returning to Salem.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through Netgalley. The opinions are my own.
The mystery was well done with plenty of suspects and red-herrings thrown into the mix to confuse and misdirect the reader. It worked on me because I was surprised by the killer's identity.
I'm looking forward to seeing where the author takes this series in the next book so I will definitely be returning to Salem.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through Netgalley. The opinions are my own.
September 25, 2020
Mrs. Morris and the Ghost of Christmas Past is the third book in the Salem B&B Mystery. Although this is the third book in a series, it can be read by itself. However, there are some spoilers for the previous books.
Charlene is the owner of a bed and breakfast in Salem, Massachusetts. In addition to Charlene, her cat, small staff, and guests, the house is inhabited by Jack, who happens to be a ghost. In this book, Charlene's parents are visiting for Christmas when a local restaurant owner is killed. Was it an accident or murder?
This book dragged on for me and I did not really connect with the characters. Even Jack, the ghost, was not very interesting. One thing I learned over and over is that Charlene's mother is annoying and often rude. The reader is pounded over the head with that. The murder mystery was not very engaging in my opinion. Unfortunately, I have no interest in reading anymore of this series.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers and Netgalley. My review is voluntary.
Charlene is the owner of a bed and breakfast in Salem, Massachusetts. In addition to Charlene, her cat, small staff, and guests, the house is inhabited by Jack, who happens to be a ghost. In this book, Charlene's parents are visiting for Christmas when a local restaurant owner is killed. Was it an accident or murder?
This book dragged on for me and I did not really connect with the characters. Even Jack, the ghost, was not very interesting. One thing I learned over and over is that Charlene's mother is annoying and often rude. The reader is pounded over the head with that. The murder mystery was not very engaging in my opinion. Unfortunately, I have no interest in reading anymore of this series.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers and Netgalley. My review is voluntary.
November 19, 2020
Although, this is the third book in the series, I had no problem following along.
Charlene Morris, is the owner of a B&B in Salem, Massachusetts. The reason, she got a great deal on the house was because it came with a resident ghost, Dr. Jack Strathmore, who scared everyone else away, and was unknown at the time to Charlene when she purchased. Jack had been murdered in the house.
Charlene was a widow. Her husband, Jared, was killed in an accident, and Charlene decided to start fresh in Salem.
Charlene's parents are visiting and she takes them out for dinner at Bella's Italian Ristorante. There is a charity event being hosted by Bella's to raise money for Felicity House for Children. David Baldwin, part owner of Bella's, also took the opportunity to pass out envelopes to specific guests. David had just won the lottery, and there was hope of David giving a nice handout. Some were left out entirely, and others not happy with the amount they were given.
David acts like he's seen a ghost, and runs out of the restaurant, and is struck by a car. In a short time, it is learned that David's new wife closed up their account, and no one is receiving any money.
Despite Charlene being new to town, she has a knack for finding clues. Her mother has been reading lots of crime novels and doesn't mind giving her two cents. Charlene takes it upon herself to help generate funds that Felicity House will no longer be receiving, which she conveniently is able to ask questions. Charlene thinks she's solved who killed David, along with some help from her ghostly friend, Jack, and leaves word with the police, except; the police, may not show up in time, and Charlene with her mom might be next.
I love how mischievous Jack could be, with some laugh out moments. Despite being invisible to all but Charlene, he could move things and tease the cat, where everyone thought the cat was nuts. Charlene struggles to get back into dating, and having a jealous ghost to contend with doesn't make it easy. The bantering between Charlene's parents made me smile and reminded me of my own parents and I, also; sympathized with Charlene and her mom driving her nuts.
I received an ARC from NetGalley via Kensington Books and I have voluntarily reviewed this book.
Charlene Morris, is the owner of a B&B in Salem, Massachusetts. The reason, she got a great deal on the house was because it came with a resident ghost, Dr. Jack Strathmore, who scared everyone else away, and was unknown at the time to Charlene when she purchased. Jack had been murdered in the house.
Charlene was a widow. Her husband, Jared, was killed in an accident, and Charlene decided to start fresh in Salem.
Charlene's parents are visiting and she takes them out for dinner at Bella's Italian Ristorante. There is a charity event being hosted by Bella's to raise money for Felicity House for Children. David Baldwin, part owner of Bella's, also took the opportunity to pass out envelopes to specific guests. David had just won the lottery, and there was hope of David giving a nice handout. Some were left out entirely, and others not happy with the amount they were given.
David acts like he's seen a ghost, and runs out of the restaurant, and is struck by a car. In a short time, it is learned that David's new wife closed up their account, and no one is receiving any money.
Despite Charlene being new to town, she has a knack for finding clues. Her mother has been reading lots of crime novels and doesn't mind giving her two cents. Charlene takes it upon herself to help generate funds that Felicity House will no longer be receiving, which she conveniently is able to ask questions. Charlene thinks she's solved who killed David, along with some help from her ghostly friend, Jack, and leaves word with the police, except; the police, may not show up in time, and Charlene with her mom might be next.
I love how mischievous Jack could be, with some laugh out moments. Despite being invisible to all but Charlene, he could move things and tease the cat, where everyone thought the cat was nuts. Charlene struggles to get back into dating, and having a jealous ghost to contend with doesn't make it easy. The bantering between Charlene's parents made me smile and reminded me of my own parents and I, also; sympathized with Charlene and her mom driving her nuts.
I received an ARC from NetGalley via Kensington Books and I have voluntarily reviewed this book.
October 14, 2020
The third installment to the Salem B&B mystery series was another satisfying escapist read. I have really enjoyed accompanying Charlene throughout the series as she continues to thrive with her successful business while continuing to build Salem as her forever home. Like the previous books, a murder mystery lies at the center; however, this book brought so much more. A burst of festive Christmas spirit illuminated the most important things of the holiday, spending time with loved ones and giving to those in need. I absolutely loved the warm feelings that brewed inside me as I kept finding myself rushing back into Charlene's life every chance I had.
In this book, Charlene's family is finally introduced. I must admit I dreaded meeting her mother just from the minor telephone interactions Charlene had with her in the first two books. Charlene's mother is pretty vile, but she just can't seem to help it. She reminded me a lot of my own grandmother! Several eye rolling moments were justified during those moments! No wonder Charlene left Chicago and went all the way to Salem! Jack, Charlene's resident ghost won my heart even more in this book as he was quite humorous. I just adore him! He is so overprotective and jealous over Charlene with other men that it makes me laugh. The tricks he played on her mother were hilarious! Chapter after chapter, I found myself hoping and wishing Jack could somehow become alive again to be with Charlene. What a wonderful Christmas miracle that would have been! It is just so unfair and breaks my heart to pieces!
As for the mystery itself, I pride myself with my abilities in figuring out who the murderer was prior to the ending! I used my super sleuthing skills, devouring the little hints dropped along the way to piece it all together before the end. Though it wasn’t easy because there were lots of suspects and possible motives. The ending moments had my heart racing!
As I've enjoyed these books so much, I've gifted myself with a preorder of the 4th book - Mrs. Morris and the Sorceress. I can’t wait!
My Last Thoughts:
Attention Netflix or Hallmark, please make a TV series or movie collection based on these books!! I promise to love them!
In this book, Charlene's family is finally introduced. I must admit I dreaded meeting her mother just from the minor telephone interactions Charlene had with her in the first two books. Charlene's mother is pretty vile, but she just can't seem to help it. She reminded me a lot of my own grandmother! Several eye rolling moments were justified during those moments! No wonder Charlene left Chicago and went all the way to Salem! Jack, Charlene's resident ghost won my heart even more in this book as he was quite humorous. I just adore him! He is so overprotective and jealous over Charlene with other men that it makes me laugh. The tricks he played on her mother were hilarious! Chapter after chapter, I found myself hoping and wishing Jack could somehow become alive again to be with Charlene. What a wonderful Christmas miracle that would have been! It is just so unfair and breaks my heart to pieces!
As for the mystery itself, I pride myself with my abilities in figuring out who the murderer was prior to the ending! I used my super sleuthing skills, devouring the little hints dropped along the way to piece it all together before the end. Though it wasn’t easy because there were lots of suspects and possible motives. The ending moments had my heart racing!
As I've enjoyed these books so much, I've gifted myself with a preorder of the 4th book - Mrs. Morris and the Sorceress. I can’t wait!
My Last Thoughts:
Attention Netflix or Hallmark, please make a TV series or movie collection based on these books!! I promise to love them!
September 29, 2020
Book 3 in my favorite series did not disappoint!! Charlene has her parents at the Bed And Breakfast for Christmas and trying to enjoy her time with them what could go wrong? At one of their first out dinners together they get to meet her friend David but it doesn’t go as poor Charlene planned and once again she’s left struggling with herself to try to move on from her need of investigating for the truth when David ends up dead! Trying to solve this murder at Christmas and dealing with her parents staying with her is a struggle, as well as her feelings for Jack ( who I adore). The ending was quite shocking and left room for a bit of a magical Christmas in Charlene’s world! Bravo to the authors for making this a mystery ending I didn’t see coming! I LOVE this series and highly recommend it to everyone!
November 5, 2020
This was a good Christmas cozy. Charlene has her hands full with running her B and B and keeping her parents entertained while they visited her. Along with this, Charlene is pulled into solving the murder of David "apparently of a hit and run case". It's a little close to home as that's how Charlene lost her dear husband and she is compelled to find David's killer. The mystery was great, the murderer reveal was a surprise to me. And I found Jack the ghost a bit annoying with all his jealousy, Poor guy! Overall, the story was good.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an opportunity to read this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an opportunity to read this book.
August 9, 2020
A Salem B & B Mystery 3
It's Christmas time and Charlene's parents are visiting from Chicago for the holiday. And her mother has already gotten on Charlene's and Jack's nevers. So Jack is having fun moving her slippers and her eye glasses around. And making the fireplace pop. Charlene keeps asking him not to do these things and he just laughs.
The first night they go out to eat at one of Charlene's favorite Italian restaurant and the owner is very nice to them, towards the end of the night the owners son comes in and he tells his son he doesn't have time to talk to him. Also the other partner is there and the owners second wife along with many of the staff. Before Charlene and her parents leave the owner makes announcement he had just won the state lottery and everyone knew that and he was handing out checks to certain people. And he was also holding a benefit for the Children's Organization. When that was done he looked outside the window into the street and ran out of the restaurant and was hit by a car. The car did not stop.
The next day it was reported that he died before getting to the hopital.
One of the waitresses stopped by Charlene's and told her that the checks would not clear because the wife closed all the accounts even the ones to the Children's benefit.
Charlene and her mother went and visited the Children's Organization to see if there was anything they could do to help raise funds for Christmas. While there Charlene met a girl that she liked, so she hired her part time. They came up with a plan of of calling on businesses and Charlene include her mother in this. of course Charlene was doing some investigating on her own. There where quite a few people that weren't happy with the deceased. His ex-wife, his partner, his college friend that came to see him. And many others.
Charlene would talk all this over with Jack at night over a glass of wine. While Sam would tell her to stay out of it. There where so many suspects and twist and turns in this story that it kept you interested from page one. And I loved the banter between Charlene and her mother and her kind father.
I was completely shocked by the killer I never saw it coming!!! It was a terrific read and I can't wait for the next book in this series!!
It's Christmas time and Charlene's parents are visiting from Chicago for the holiday. And her mother has already gotten on Charlene's and Jack's nevers. So Jack is having fun moving her slippers and her eye glasses around. And making the fireplace pop. Charlene keeps asking him not to do these things and he just laughs.
The first night they go out to eat at one of Charlene's favorite Italian restaurant and the owner is very nice to them, towards the end of the night the owners son comes in and he tells his son he doesn't have time to talk to him. Also the other partner is there and the owners second wife along with many of the staff. Before Charlene and her parents leave the owner makes announcement he had just won the state lottery and everyone knew that and he was handing out checks to certain people. And he was also holding a benefit for the Children's Organization. When that was done he looked outside the window into the street and ran out of the restaurant and was hit by a car. The car did not stop.
The next day it was reported that he died before getting to the hopital.
One of the waitresses stopped by Charlene's and told her that the checks would not clear because the wife closed all the accounts even the ones to the Children's benefit.
Charlene and her mother went and visited the Children's Organization to see if there was anything they could do to help raise funds for Christmas. While there Charlene met a girl that she liked, so she hired her part time. They came up with a plan of of calling on businesses and Charlene include her mother in this. of course Charlene was doing some investigating on her own. There where quite a few people that weren't happy with the deceased. His ex-wife, his partner, his college friend that came to see him. And many others.
Charlene would talk all this over with Jack at night over a glass of wine. While Sam would tell her to stay out of it. There where so many suspects and twist and turns in this story that it kept you interested from page one. And I loved the banter between Charlene and her mother and her kind father.
I was completely shocked by the killer I never saw it coming!!! It was a terrific read and I can't wait for the next book in this series!!
July 30, 2020
An entertaining mystery set in the charming town of Salem, MA during the festive season. It is a light read that moves quickly with all the trappings you expect of a Christmas tale: a Scrooge, children in need, snow, charity, fun, humor, family drama, heart-warming moments, and murder (OOpps that doesn't show up in all Christmas tales).
This is not one of the paranormal mysteries where the ghost plays a big part of solving the mystery, in fact the ghost doesn't show up that often except to annoy Charlene's mother and be jealous of a potential living boyfriend. There are some nice moments of interaction between the Charlene and the ghost so if you are looking for the paranormal aspect you won't feel as if you have been deceived.
It is a solid mystery with red herrings and plenty of potential suspects. I was surprised by the culprit, so kudos to the writer for good misdirection.
It is a fun book that doesn't shy away from showing Christmas and family isn't always the picture perfect vision from movies and tv. But in the end the mystery is solved and Christmas cheer is to be found before fading to black.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the ARC in exchange for a impartial review.
This is not one of the paranormal mysteries where the ghost plays a big part of solving the mystery, in fact the ghost doesn't show up that often except to annoy Charlene's mother and be jealous of a potential living boyfriend. There are some nice moments of interaction between the Charlene and the ghost so if you are looking for the paranormal aspect you won't feel as if you have been deceived.
It is a solid mystery with red herrings and plenty of potential suspects. I was surprised by the culprit, so kudos to the writer for good misdirection.
It is a fun book that doesn't shy away from showing Christmas and family isn't always the picture perfect vision from movies and tv. But in the end the mystery is solved and Christmas cheer is to be found before fading to black.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the ARC in exchange for a impartial review.
July 30, 2020
The cozy is very good, the mother is awful, the resident ghost of the B&B sounds wonderful, and if I read another ad for the car Charlene drives I think I'll screech. The publisher's blurb is a good hook and the story has enough twists and red herrings to keep the guessing going. Generally a good read.
I requested and received a free Ebook copy from Kensington Books via NetGalley.
I requested and received a free Ebook copy from Kensington Books via NetGalley.
December 17, 2021
Charlene Morris and parents are dining at Bella’s in Salem, Massachusetts. It is a charity dinner to raise funds for Felicity House. After an awkward moment involving envelopes, David Baldwin (the restaurant’s co-owner) starts acting odd. He takes off running outside where he is hit by a car which promptly takes off. David has just won the lottery which had people coming out of the woodwork with their hands out. He has a wife who was enjoying the riches, but she is also has a boy toy on the side. Charlene sets out to dig up the truth. She is also trying to raise funds so the kids at Felicity House can have a happy holiday since someone decided to put the kibosh on a donation. Can Charlene wrap up the mystery before Christmas Eve? Mrs. Morris and the Ghost of Christmas Pasty by Traci Wilton is the third novel in A Salem B&B Mystery series. I would suggest reading the series in order. I found myself a little confused for the first couple of chapters (and I have read Mrs. Morris and the Ghost). There were so many characters introduced that I found it hard to keep everyone straight (it gets better after the first couple of chapters). We get to meet Charlene’s parents who are in town for ten days (and Charlene is counting down the days). I like Charlene’s father, but her mother is a piece of work (a real negative nelly). I just love Jack, the resident ghost of the bed and breakfast. He is handsome, kind, caring, thoughtful, and amusing. Jack pulls some humorous pranks. I love the setting of Salem. It is a wonderful town rich in history. I enjoy the vivid descriptions of the area as well as Charlene’s beautiful bed and breakfast. Charlene actively investigates the hit-and-run. She asks questions and happens to overhear some pertinent information. There is a red herring or two along with plenty of suspects. I liked the mystery. You need to pay close attention to the clues if you are to identify the guilty party. I do not know why Sam bothers to tell Charlene to stay out of the case. He should know by now that she is not going to do it. I love how Jack helps Charlene work through the clues. I would like to see more of Jack in future books (he needs to work on his jealousy though). There is a great Christmassy atmosphere in the story. I thought it was wonderful what Charlene is trying to do to help Felicity House. Overall, an enjoyable and entertaining cozy mystery (except for Charlene’s mother). Mrs. Morris and the Ghost of Christmas Past is a charming whodunit with flavorful pasta fagioli, a deadly hit-and-run, a glum mum, a jealous Jack, a dearth of donations, a handy new helper, and a Happy Holiday!
November 17, 2020
“Mrs. Morris and the Ghost of Christmas Past" the 3rd instalment in the "Salem B&B Mystery” series by Traci Wilton. This is the first book I have read in the series and it can easily be read as a standalone but I recommend reading them in order.
I really enjoyed this story, and it has made me want to catch up on the series. I have the first two in paperback and the 4th pre-ordered. I loved the characters even Charlene’s outspoken mother I could relate with to some extent. I found Jacks antics funny and enjoyed Charlene along with Minnie and Avery a young teen from Felicity house. I think I would like to see Charlene adopt or foster one of the children.
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, with enough twists and turns to keep you guessing till the end.
I’m super excited to get caught up before book 4 Mrs. Morris and the Sorceress comes out March, 2021.
I highly recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books, the author and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this story, and it has made me want to catch up on the series. I have the first two in paperback and the 4th pre-ordered. I loved the characters even Charlene’s outspoken mother I could relate with to some extent. I found Jacks antics funny and enjoyed Charlene along with Minnie and Avery a young teen from Felicity house. I think I would like to see Charlene adopt or foster one of the children.
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, with enough twists and turns to keep you guessing till the end.
I’m super excited to get caught up before book 4 Mrs. Morris and the Sorceress comes out March, 2021.
I highly recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books, the author and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 11, 2021
All I can say is Wow, Another Awesome book in this series.
Charlene had moved to Salem and had bought a mansion to open a bed and breakfast. Her parents have been trying to get her to come back home with them. So she invited them to come to her new Bed and Breakfast for Christmas. This story shows her Mom and Dad there with her. Her resident ghost Jack, (who know one can see but her) and her cat Silva.
So we get to revisit friends we met in the last book as well as meet some new guests and her parents. During this book she has been thrown into another mystery to solve. I really don't want to spoil the book for you but you really shouldn't miss reading it.
Again I want to say I just could not put this book down. An awesome read. Thanks for sharing an ARC with me and this is my honest opinion.
Charlene had moved to Salem and had bought a mansion to open a bed and breakfast. Her parents have been trying to get her to come back home with them. So she invited them to come to her new Bed and Breakfast for Christmas. This story shows her Mom and Dad there with her. Her resident ghost Jack, (who know one can see but her) and her cat Silva.
So we get to revisit friends we met in the last book as well as meet some new guests and her parents. During this book she has been thrown into another mystery to solve. I really don't want to spoil the book for you but you really shouldn't miss reading it.
Again I want to say I just could not put this book down. An awesome read. Thanks for sharing an ARC with me and this is my honest opinion.
January 15, 2021
Mrs. Morris and the Ghost of Christmas Past nicely rounded out my Christmas-themed reading this year. The Salem, MA, setting, especially at Christmas, gave it that small town cozy atmosphere, and the introduction of Charlene's parents, along with other visitors at her inn, lent a homey, holiday feel. I enjoyed the interaction between Charlene and the various secondary characters, including watching her maneuver her mother's contrariness, and dealing with Jack, her resident ghost, and his romantic feelings toward her. To balance this impossible relationship is sexy police detective Sam, whom Charlene finds herself alternately working with and against (because he wants to keep her safe) in the effort to solve the crime. With a cast of very likely suspects who all had good reason to want the victim (of questionable character himself) dead, the actual culprit surprised me at the end.
December 19, 2021
Reasons why the murderer should have been a goat:
-the victim was killed in a hit and run but there was no debris from a smashed up car on the road
-there were also no skid marks
-someone on the scene said they saw "a dark shape" - I posit that they would have been able to tell if this dark shape was a car even in the dark, especially if it was driving along the road, and they would be able to hear the engine
-apparently the "car" that hit the victim was only driving 30 MPH. According to Google goats can run at speeds up to 50 MPH
-this is a cosy mystery set at Christmas, it would make sense within the genre for everyone to have a happy and guilt-free ending
-there are too many books with human murderers and not enough with killer goats
-the victim was killed in a hit and run but there was no debris from a smashed up car on the road
-there were also no skid marks
-someone on the scene said they saw "a dark shape" - I posit that they would have been able to tell if this dark shape was a car even in the dark, especially if it was driving along the road, and they would be able to hear the engine
-apparently the "car" that hit the victim was only driving 30 MPH. According to Google goats can run at speeds up to 50 MPH
-this is a cosy mystery set at Christmas, it would make sense within the genre for everyone to have a happy and guilt-free ending
-there are too many books with human murderers and not enough with killer goats
August 2, 2020
Charlene Morris can't help but get herself involved in investigating the murders that have taken place around her in her new home in Salem, MA. After the death of her husband she moved to Salem and purchased a haunted house that she has turned into Charlene's Bed and Breakfast. The ghost responsible for haunting the B&B is Dr. Jack Strathmore who was murdered in the house. His murder was solved in the first book in the series, Mrs. Morris and the Ghost. Charlene is the only one who can see Jack's ghost. She has befriended him and he helps her solve the murder mysteries.
This is a fun read! Ms. Wilton lays out the clues and leads her readers on an entertaining chase to solve the mystery.
This is a fun read! Ms. Wilton lays out the clues and leads her readers on an entertaining chase to solve the mystery.
October 16, 2020
First off, I have to say that Mrs. Morris and the Ghost of Christmas Past was enjoyable and, for me personally, much better than the other books in the series. It’s no secret I wasn’t a fan at the beginning. But with this latest addition, the author has won me over. This quirky story has readers smiling and empathizing with Charlene. They can see their own parental relationships within the pages and understand what the main character is going through.
It’s the holidays in Salem, and everyone is trying to enjoy themselves and get in that last-minute shopping and charity donations. Charlene is at her favorite restaurant during a charity event that will help the local children’s home expand and give the kids a merry Christmas. The twist or quirky part is that the host is run down and killed in the middle of the road, and apparently, no one saw it happen, not even Charlene.
The characters in this series have grown into very likable individuals, although I am still not fond of Jack, the ghost, who is becoming more possessive of Charlene and pouts. However, he does add a bit of humor to the situations she finds herself in with B&B guests, the police, and in this case, her mother. It’s nice to get a better idea of what Charlene left behind when she moved to Salem and bought the B&B and why she would never want to go back.
The story is a fun, fast-paced read with plenty of suspects, twists, and red herrings to keep readers happy. The victim starts out very likable, but in the end, we find out that he wasn’t what he seemed, and many had good cause to want rid of him. The unveiling of the killer in Mrs. Morris and the Ghost of Christmas Past may come as a surprise to some, but many readers will know who the culprit is before they reach the final chapter. I am happy to recommend this quirky holiday cozy to readers who like ghosts with their holidays, and even those who don’t.
It’s the holidays in Salem, and everyone is trying to enjoy themselves and get in that last-minute shopping and charity donations. Charlene is at her favorite restaurant during a charity event that will help the local children’s home expand and give the kids a merry Christmas. The twist or quirky part is that the host is run down and killed in the middle of the road, and apparently, no one saw it happen, not even Charlene.
The characters in this series have grown into very likable individuals, although I am still not fond of Jack, the ghost, who is becoming more possessive of Charlene and pouts. However, he does add a bit of humor to the situations she finds herself in with B&B guests, the police, and in this case, her mother. It’s nice to get a better idea of what Charlene left behind when she moved to Salem and bought the B&B and why she would never want to go back.
The story is a fun, fast-paced read with plenty of suspects, twists, and red herrings to keep readers happy. The victim starts out very likable, but in the end, we find out that he wasn’t what he seemed, and many had good cause to want rid of him. The unveiling of the killer in Mrs. Morris and the Ghost of Christmas Past may come as a surprise to some, but many readers will know who the culprit is before they reach the final chapter. I am happy to recommend this quirky holiday cozy to readers who like ghosts with their holidays, and even those who don’t.
October 6, 2020
Mrs. Morris and the Ghost of Christmas Past is the third book in Traci Wilton’s Salem B&B Mystery series. Charlene Morris is a young widow who has established her bed and breakfast in Salem, Massachusetts, and has discovered that she is joined in her home by its late resident, Dr. Jack Strathmore. She has been in residence for only a few months, and for the holidays, her parents from Chicago are coming to visit. On one of their first evenings in town, Charlene and her parents dine at Bella’s Italian Ristorante for a charity event and are there to witness the death of its owner in a strange hit and run event. From here, the mystery begins and the avenues are many.
With an ex-wife, a trophy wife, a shady business partner, and the new win of a 10 million dollar lottery, David Baldwin has a myriad of suspects to his hit and run death. Add to that, the fact that he reneged on many monetary promises, there are a variety of those who may have been the driver in the fatal accident.
This story takes the reader down many paths, exploring the victim, the suspects, and delving into the relationship between Charlene and her parents. Toss into the mix her resident ghost as well as the dashing Detective Sam Holden, and you have a story that will keep you reading late into the night. I very much enjoyed this book and I do recommend it!
With an ex-wife, a trophy wife, a shady business partner, and the new win of a 10 million dollar lottery, David Baldwin has a myriad of suspects to his hit and run death. Add to that, the fact that he reneged on many monetary promises, there are a variety of those who may have been the driver in the fatal accident.
This story takes the reader down many paths, exploring the victim, the suspects, and delving into the relationship between Charlene and her parents. Toss into the mix her resident ghost as well as the dashing Detective Sam Holden, and you have a story that will keep you reading late into the night. I very much enjoyed this book and I do recommend it!
September 29, 2020
You won’t regret this visit to Salem and Charlene’s B&B
Charlene Morris has reinvented herself as a B&B owner after her husband is killed in a car accident. She’d never planned on giving up her life as a marketing exec to run her own bustling B&B, and she surely never expected to run it alongside her ghostly housemate, Jack.
While Jack usually doesn’t interact with the guests, he can’t help but entertain himself by driving Charlene’s mom a little bit crazy while she and Charlene’s dad are in town, visiting from Chicago for Christmas. Her mom is a bit of a challenge, to be sure, and now there is another murder to be solved, when local restaurant owner David Baldwin is mysteriously run down during a charity auction. As the list of suspects continue to grow, will Charlene and Jack be able solve the murder before Christmas is ruined for all?
The third novel in Traci Wilton’s Salem B&B Mystery series does not disappoint. Whether this is your first visit to Charlene’s B&B, or you are a repeat guest, you are in for a treat. Grab a cup of cocoa or a holiday Martini and settle in by a nice warm fire for this delightful read. The book is engaging and is difficult to set down once you start, so you may want to grab some holiday cookies to go along with your beverage!
While the story line builds upon the previous books, the novel can easily be read on its own. Favorite characters from the earlier stories reappear, including B&B staff Minnie and Will, Sam the detective (who’s not kept his interest in Charlene a secret), and others. You’ll also be introduced to delightful new characters, including Avery, a teen living at Felicity House (a home for children and teens). Traci cleverly embeds Salem’s setting and culture into this Christmas themed story as it twists and turns and keeps you guessing right until the very end.
*I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley in return for my honest review.
Charlene Morris has reinvented herself as a B&B owner after her husband is killed in a car accident. She’d never planned on giving up her life as a marketing exec to run her own bustling B&B, and she surely never expected to run it alongside her ghostly housemate, Jack.
While Jack usually doesn’t interact with the guests, he can’t help but entertain himself by driving Charlene’s mom a little bit crazy while she and Charlene’s dad are in town, visiting from Chicago for Christmas. Her mom is a bit of a challenge, to be sure, and now there is another murder to be solved, when local restaurant owner David Baldwin is mysteriously run down during a charity auction. As the list of suspects continue to grow, will Charlene and Jack be able solve the murder before Christmas is ruined for all?
The third novel in Traci Wilton’s Salem B&B Mystery series does not disappoint. Whether this is your first visit to Charlene’s B&B, or you are a repeat guest, you are in for a treat. Grab a cup of cocoa or a holiday Martini and settle in by a nice warm fire for this delightful read. The book is engaging and is difficult to set down once you start, so you may want to grab some holiday cookies to go along with your beverage!
While the story line builds upon the previous books, the novel can easily be read on its own. Favorite characters from the earlier stories reappear, including B&B staff Minnie and Will, Sam the detective (who’s not kept his interest in Charlene a secret), and others. You’ll also be introduced to delightful new characters, including Avery, a teen living at Felicity House (a home for children and teens). Traci cleverly embeds Salem’s setting and culture into this Christmas themed story as it twists and turns and keeps you guessing right until the very end.
*I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley in return for my honest review.
December 18, 2020
Charlene Morris is a young widow who owns a B&B in Salem, Massachusetts. It's the Christmas holidays, and her parents, Brenda and Michael, have come to visit. Unfortunately, her relationship with her mother has been contentious and is partly the reason she fled Chicago for the safety of Salem after her husband was unexpectedly killed. She also has other guests at her B&B, so her time to spend with them is limited. Her only respite is her resident ghost, Dr. Jack Strathmore, who was murdered three years ago, and is living with her -- she is the only person who can see and hear him, which makes it difficult when guests are around and he talks to her.
But Charlene has taken her parents to a local Italian restaurant for the evening - Bella's - and its owner, David Baldwin has just won the lottery. Still, he's hosting a raffle for a local childrens' home, and Charlene plans to have fun, even if her mother is complaining. But after the meal when the gifts are raffled off, David distributes envelopes containing 'gifts' of his own to several people at the restaurant. Some don't seem happy, including his silent partner Vincent, or the childrens' home managers; even his son shows up and is surprised when he receives nothing.
But no one is more surprised than Charlene when David says two names and then promptly runs into the road and is run down by a hit-and-run driver. Now Charlene is determined to find out who killed David and why, even after being warned away by Detective Sam Holden. It doesn't help that her mother has already decided the young widow is the culprit, and wants to investigate with Charlene. She has her hands full running her B&B, keeping her mother otherwise occupied, trying to spend time with her ghost, and looking for a killer who might be the most oddest suspect of all...
This is the third book in the series and I've read them all. Let me first say that I love books with ghosts (friendly ones, not poltergeists), and even more so when they have personal relationships with the main protagonist. This series is no different than that. But Charlene is finding it difficult to maintain her attraction to Jack, knowing he's a ghost and can't reciprocate the way she wants, and her dawning attraction to Sam, knowing he can. It makes for problems in her life.
When she's on the hunt for a killer, it makes things even more difficult knowing Sam wants her out of it. But she's sure the widow knows something, and even has a desire to talk to the ex-wife, who was left by her husband for another woman. Even more so is her questions for Kyle, the son, and Vincent, the partner. But no one is giving any information, and Charlene is on her own.
It makes for quite an interesting mystery, and I truly enjoyed it. I also loved the descriptions of Charlene's home decorated for Christmas, and I myself would love to see it. That is what draws the reader in - descriptions we can discover in our own mind and make us want to share the story with the protagonist.
I do love the character of Jack, and my romantic side wishes there were some way he could become more than a ghost (through, perhaps, a miracle of sorts where anything can happen). I do, unfortunately, like him a bit better than Sam, who comes off hard sometimes. But these are my own opinions and others will see things differently.
Throughout the book I found that Brenda was growing on me, and her conversations with her husband started to become humorous by the end of the book. Sometimes marriages seem strange to others, but whatever seems strange to some people wind up being others' own forms of love. It was delightful visiting with Charlene's parents and watching her own relationship with them.
When the ending comes and we discover the murderer, it was sad in a way, knowing the lengths people will go to. Still, it all came out nicely and the book ended in such a way that left me looking forward to the next in the series soon. Recommended.
I was given an advance copy from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
But Charlene has taken her parents to a local Italian restaurant for the evening - Bella's - and its owner, David Baldwin has just won the lottery. Still, he's hosting a raffle for a local childrens' home, and Charlene plans to have fun, even if her mother is complaining. But after the meal when the gifts are raffled off, David distributes envelopes containing 'gifts' of his own to several people at the restaurant. Some don't seem happy, including his silent partner Vincent, or the childrens' home managers; even his son shows up and is surprised when he receives nothing.
But no one is more surprised than Charlene when David says two names and then promptly runs into the road and is run down by a hit-and-run driver. Now Charlene is determined to find out who killed David and why, even after being warned away by Detective Sam Holden. It doesn't help that her mother has already decided the young widow is the culprit, and wants to investigate with Charlene. She has her hands full running her B&B, keeping her mother otherwise occupied, trying to spend time with her ghost, and looking for a killer who might be the most oddest suspect of all...
This is the third book in the series and I've read them all. Let me first say that I love books with ghosts (friendly ones, not poltergeists), and even more so when they have personal relationships with the main protagonist. This series is no different than that. But Charlene is finding it difficult to maintain her attraction to Jack, knowing he's a ghost and can't reciprocate the way she wants, and her dawning attraction to Sam, knowing he can. It makes for problems in her life.
When she's on the hunt for a killer, it makes things even more difficult knowing Sam wants her out of it. But she's sure the widow knows something, and even has a desire to talk to the ex-wife, who was left by her husband for another woman. Even more so is her questions for Kyle, the son, and Vincent, the partner. But no one is giving any information, and Charlene is on her own.
It makes for quite an interesting mystery, and I truly enjoyed it. I also loved the descriptions of Charlene's home decorated for Christmas, and I myself would love to see it. That is what draws the reader in - descriptions we can discover in our own mind and make us want to share the story with the protagonist.
I do love the character of Jack, and my romantic side wishes there were some way he could become more than a ghost (through, perhaps, a miracle of sorts where anything can happen). I do, unfortunately, like him a bit better than Sam, who comes off hard sometimes. But these are my own opinions and others will see things differently.
Throughout the book I found that Brenda was growing on me, and her conversations with her husband started to become humorous by the end of the book. Sometimes marriages seem strange to others, but whatever seems strange to some people wind up being others' own forms of love. It was delightful visiting with Charlene's parents and watching her own relationship with them.
When the ending comes and we discover the murderer, it was sad in a way, knowing the lengths people will go to. Still, it all came out nicely and the book ended in such a way that left me looking forward to the next in the series soon. Recommended.
I was given an advance copy from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
September 20, 2020
It's the first holiday season for Charlene Morris and her Salem B&B. While she loves her mother, her parent's visit has added some extra stress to the mix, especially when Charlene starts investigating a hit and run. Her ghost resident ghost seems intent on pranking her mother and being jealous of her potential new beau(s). The mystery itself is solid and full of viable suspects. The interplay between the characters adds to the charm making this one of my top series to read.Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 5, 2021
This is such a fun series, and just keeps getting better and better. I'm loving the budding romance between Sam and Charlene and the mystery was great. I didn't see that one coming. Definitely a cozy mystery series I recommend!
March 4, 2023
This book was definitely better than the last one. I enjoyed the Christmas atmosphere. However, I was missing the regular cast of characters. The book seemed to be centered on Charlene, her parents and Jack. Other than some slight interactions interspersed in the pages, the rest of the gang was missing.
This book centers on the murder of David Baldwin, manager of Bella's restaurant. He has just won the lottery and is handing out checks during a fundraiser before being rundown outside of his restaurant. Charlene is on scene when this happens and starts asking questions. Will she solve the murder, survive her mother's visit and have a B&B full of guests for Christmas Eve?
I really liked the first book in the series but my enthusiasm is dwindling a little with each subsequent book. I think it's silly Charlene is torn between a living man and a ghost and I loathe love triangles in mysteries, especially since this one strikes me as ridiculous. I found that part of the story to be trying on my nerves and I detracted from my enjoyment.
As I said, a lot of the staple characters are missing - I like the spunky winery owner and her mother and Kevin, the bartender friend of Charlene's. Even her interactions with Jack were stilted. I think what caused this one to lose a star is Charlene inserts herself into a lot of people's lives asking nosy questions and no one ever tells her to mind her own business. They get angry but they give up information anyway. Usually cozies take place in a small towns where everyone knows everyone and the amateur sleuth asking questions of acquaintances makes sense but these people don't know her from a hole in the wall. It's puzzling to say the least.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. Opinions in this review are my own.
This book centers on the murder of David Baldwin, manager of Bella's restaurant. He has just won the lottery and is handing out checks during a fundraiser before being rundown outside of his restaurant. Charlene is on scene when this happens and starts asking questions. Will she solve the murder, survive her mother's visit and have a B&B full of guests for Christmas Eve?
I really liked the first book in the series but my enthusiasm is dwindling a little with each subsequent book. I think it's silly Charlene is torn between a living man and a ghost and I loathe love triangles in mysteries, especially since this one strikes me as ridiculous. I found that part of the story to be trying on my nerves and I detracted from my enjoyment.
As I said, a lot of the staple characters are missing - I like the spunky winery owner and her mother and Kevin, the bartender friend of Charlene's. Even her interactions with Jack were stilted. I think what caused this one to lose a star is Charlene inserts herself into a lot of people's lives asking nosy questions and no one ever tells her to mind her own business. They get angry but they give up information anyway. Usually cozies take place in a small towns where everyone knows everyone and the amateur sleuth asking questions of acquaintances makes sense but these people don't know her from a hole in the wall. It's puzzling to say the least.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. Opinions in this review are my own.
December 20, 2024
3 stars
Three books already and I still can't feel myself to warming toward Charlene Morris and the Salem's residents. The story happen in the Christmas time, three months after Charlene moved into Salem and open her own B&B, and baaam, another dead body! I don't know if Charlene is really unfortunate or Salem have a high count of dead body, but yeah, another time for Charlene to play Nancy Drew. The poor victim is David, the owner of local Italian restaurant named Bella and Charlene always think David is a good and charming man. David also recently winning a lottery which make things awkward with his second wife and his kid from David's first marriage. Thing turn deadly when David become victim of run over and many people have motives to cause David bodily harm.
Honestly, I really dislike Charlene's mother. I know that mother, no matter what how old their children are, still think them as "child". But, Charlene's mother take it to a whole new level. Charlene is already in her 40-ish, she apparently still processing her grief after her husband died two years ago, but what Charlene's mom aka Brenda did? Constantly criticize and belittle Charlene, always gaslighting because she think Charlene didn't love her enough. Charlene's father, Michael, seems to tolerate his wife, but if I have mother like Brenda, I will do everything in my power to go away. Heck, even if my relationship with my Mother kinda rocky when I'm in my twenties, when I already in my thirties she just let me do as I please. Brenda's insufferable attitude toward Charlene kinda left a bitter taste for me and why Charlene although she also angry but still try to love her mother speak volume. Charlene indeed, is too kind.
The mystery kinda simple but what I like from this series is how the culprit always not what they seems to be and the red herrings were well written. As for Charlene and Sam's budding relationship, although Sam still hesitant to share his investigation surprisingly there's no wuss from him regarding Charlene's sleuthing. In opposite, he try to wooing her and maybe Charlene finally start to thaw and want to pursue a romantic relationship. But what about our charming resident ghost, Jack Sthratmore? I really like Jack and I think one of the highlight of this series is Jack's presence. I wish Jack appear more often and I like his platonic relationship with Charlene. While from the start the love triangle possibility is high, I don't think it can be called as love triangle at all. Jack is dead and any romantic pursuits with Charlene seems impossible while Sam is a living being. But, if I can choose, I like Jack and Charlene's platonic relationship more.
Mrs Morris and The Ghost of Christmas Past tend heavily into Charlene's relationship with her parents rather than the mystery. What make me disappointed is the "ghost" that mention in the title more like figuratively speaking rather than the real deal. The ghost still only Jack and maybe Jack is a special case because only Charlene who can see him. The book pace itself was pretty fast and also light. However, since I already collect the series up to book 8 (lol, bad habit of mine!), I will read them all but will not buy any new books after I feel certain that I can connect to Charlene and the Salem's citizen.
Three books already and I still can't feel myself to warming toward Charlene Morris and the Salem's residents. The story happen in the Christmas time, three months after Charlene moved into Salem and open her own B&B, and baaam, another dead body! I don't know if Charlene is really unfortunate or Salem have a high count of dead body, but yeah, another time for Charlene to play Nancy Drew. The poor victim is David, the owner of local Italian restaurant named Bella and Charlene always think David is a good and charming man. David also recently winning a lottery which make things awkward with his second wife and his kid from David's first marriage. Thing turn deadly when David become victim of run over and many people have motives to cause David bodily harm.
Honestly, I really dislike Charlene's mother. I know that mother, no matter what how old their children are, still think them as "child". But, Charlene's mother take it to a whole new level. Charlene is already in her 40-ish, she apparently still processing her grief after her husband died two years ago, but what Charlene's mom aka Brenda did? Constantly criticize and belittle Charlene, always gaslighting because she think Charlene didn't love her enough. Charlene's father, Michael, seems to tolerate his wife, but if I have mother like Brenda, I will do everything in my power to go away. Heck, even if my relationship with my Mother kinda rocky when I'm in my twenties, when I already in my thirties she just let me do as I please. Brenda's insufferable attitude toward Charlene kinda left a bitter taste for me and why Charlene although she also angry but still try to love her mother speak volume. Charlene indeed, is too kind.
The mystery kinda simple but what I like from this series is how the culprit always not what they seems to be and the red herrings were well written. As for Charlene and Sam's budding relationship, although Sam still hesitant to share his investigation surprisingly there's no wuss from him regarding Charlene's sleuthing. In opposite, he try to wooing her and maybe Charlene finally start to thaw and want to pursue a romantic relationship. But what about our charming resident ghost, Jack Sthratmore? I really like Jack and I think one of the highlight of this series is Jack's presence. I wish Jack appear more often and I like his platonic relationship with Charlene. While from the start the love triangle possibility is high, I don't think it can be called as love triangle at all. Jack is dead and any romantic pursuits with Charlene seems impossible while Sam is a living being. But, if I can choose, I like Jack and Charlene's platonic relationship more.
Mrs Morris and The Ghost of Christmas Past tend heavily into Charlene's relationship with her parents rather than the mystery. What make me disappointed is the "ghost" that mention in the title more like figuratively speaking rather than the real deal. The ghost still only Jack and maybe Jack is a special case because only Charlene who can see him. The book pace itself was pretty fast and also light. However, since I already collect the series up to book 8 (lol, bad habit of mine!), I will read them all but will not buy any new books after I feel certain that I can connect to Charlene and the Salem's citizen.
October 3, 2020
Christmas is coming to Salem and Charlene is looking forward to the festive time at her new B&B. Too bad she won't get the holiday cheer she wants. To start with her parents are staying at the B&B and, while her Dad is a mellow guy, her mother is driving her crazy with her abrasive demeanor. She needs a better functioning filter between her thoughts and her mouth. Charlene decides to take them to her favorite Italian restaurant which is hosting a fundraiser for a local children's home. Her mother makes some not so nice comments to various people, complains about the food but, at the start, it's a nice evening. Things go sideways when David, the owner (but really only part owner) hands out a portion of his new lottery winnings to select people - not family - and tensions heat up. Before Charlene can say ho, ho, ho, David sees something out of the front window that makes him bolt out the door. Next thing he is lying dead in the street but no car in sight. Hit and run and by whom? And so the mystery begins.
I really enjoy the puzzle and the relationship between Charlene and her ghostly housemate, Dr. Jack Strathmore, former owner of the house and tied to it for who knows how long. Let's just say he's a real hunk and he's a bit jealous of Charlene's police detective boyfriend. Sam is the opposite of Jack in looks but he's a keeper. Only Charlene and her cat can see Jack but others can feel his presence.
The series can be read in any order but I'm in the 'read them in order' camp. I already have a spot on my TBR list set aside for #4, Mrs. Morris and the Sorceress due out 3/30/2021.
My thanks to the publisher, Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoy the puzzle and the relationship between Charlene and her ghostly housemate, Dr. Jack Strathmore, former owner of the house and tied to it for who knows how long. Let's just say he's a real hunk and he's a bit jealous of Charlene's police detective boyfriend. Sam is the opposite of Jack in looks but he's a keeper. Only Charlene and her cat can see Jack but others can feel his presence.
The series can be read in any order but I'm in the 'read them in order' camp. I already have a spot on my TBR list set aside for #4, Mrs. Morris and the Sorceress due out 3/30/2021.
My thanks to the publisher, Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 8, 2020
This is such a fun charming series I always enjoy returning to it with each new release. This is a Christmas time themed release that is such fun to read. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity. My review opinion is my own. .
Mrs. Morris and the Ghost of Christmas Past is the third book in Traci Wilton’s Salem B&B Mystery series. Charlene Morris is a young widow who owns a bed and breakfast in Salem, Massachusetts. She is not the only resident as she has a ghost Dr. Jack Strathmore who lives in her B&B. Her parents are visiting for Xmas time when Charlene and her parents go out to dinner at a local Ristorante for a charity. While they are there they are witnesses to a hit and run death of the owner of the restaurant. Charlene begins her sleuth ,much to the chagrin of the local detective looking into the suspects ex wife, his recent windfall from the lottery and finds many who wanted to do him harm. As she finds answers she also finds secrets below the surface.
I enjoy this series with the perfect blend of the paranormal and the beautiful setting. The charcters are all fun and add to the stories. I look forward to the next in series.
Mrs. Morris and the Ghost of Christmas Past is the third book in Traci Wilton’s Salem B&B Mystery series. Charlene Morris is a young widow who owns a bed and breakfast in Salem, Massachusetts. She is not the only resident as she has a ghost Dr. Jack Strathmore who lives in her B&B. Her parents are visiting for Xmas time when Charlene and her parents go out to dinner at a local Ristorante for a charity. While they are there they are witnesses to a hit and run death of the owner of the restaurant. Charlene begins her sleuth ,much to the chagrin of the local detective looking into the suspects ex wife, his recent windfall from the lottery and finds many who wanted to do him harm. As she finds answers she also finds secrets below the surface.
I enjoy this series with the perfect blend of the paranormal and the beautiful setting. The charcters are all fun and add to the stories. I look forward to the next in series.
October 7, 2020
Thank you to Kensington Books and Netgalley for giving me the chance to read and review, "Mrs. Morris and the Ghost of Christmas Past" by Traci Wilton. This is the third book in this mystery series and I have enjoyed this series a lot so far. I can depend on being surprised by the twists and turns the stories take. Charlene is a likable main character even though she consistently is getting caught up in the police cases in her town of Salem. I feel like she may have missed her calling as a detective! This story follows the hit and run murder of a prominent restaurant owner named David who had just won the lottery. I loved seeing the different suspects in David's murder. The theme of Christmas was a nice touch so David's murder wasn't the only thing going on in their town. Overall, it was a great read and I plan on continuing the series.
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