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Mystified
Someone drowned teen beauty queen, Juliette Annabella Parker.
Prior to her death, 15-year-old Jules reigned as the nation’s darling of beauty pageantry. On her parents’ waterfront estate in rural-rich Hickory Thicket, however, she was beset by dark family secrets—those which kept her isolated. Of course, Jules had harbored a few secrets of her own, including her forbidden friendship with the new teen next door, 17-year-old Truitt Windsor.
Jules’s drowned corpse should’ve ended their budding relationship. Except, Truitt sees ghosts and isn’t afraid. Now he’s eager to help Jules solve her murder; only, she can’t be sure of his innocence. In fact, everyone on the estate is suspect, even her parents.
Finding her killer is Jules’s obsession. Not knowing could haunt her for eternity. But her time on Earth is quickly fading…
Prior to her death, 15-year-old Jules reigned as the nation’s darling of beauty pageantry. On her parents’ waterfront estate in rural-rich Hickory Thicket, however, she was beset by dark family secrets—those which kept her isolated. Of course, Jules had harbored a few secrets of her own, including her forbidden friendship with the new teen next door, 17-year-old Truitt Windsor.
Jules’s drowned corpse should’ve ended their budding relationship. Except, Truitt sees ghosts and isn’t afraid. Now he’s eager to help Jules solve her murder; only, she can’t be sure of his innocence. In fact, everyone on the estate is suspect, even her parents.
Finding her killer is Jules’s obsession. Not knowing could haunt her for eternity. But her time on Earth is quickly fading…
328 pages, Paperback
Published March 19, 2022
19 people are currently reading
160 people want to read
About the author
Julia Ash
5 books321 followersJULIA ASH’S fifth published book is FIND THEM (2023), her second in ghost fiction. This novel and MYSTIFIED (2022) were inspired by growing up in a haunted house in Pennsylvania.
MYSTIFIED earned Honorable Mention from Writer’s Digest in its 2022 Self-Published E-Book Awards.
Julia has also authored a dark fantasy series: The ELI Chronicles. This series includes THE ONE AND ONLY (2018), THE TETHER (2019), and THE TURNING POINT (2020).
THE TURNING POINT earned Honorable Mention from Writer’s Digest in its 2020 Self-Published E-Book Awards and was a Semi-Finalist for the 2020 BookLife Prize competition, sponsored by Publishers Weekly.
Julia lives with her husband and pups on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and also calls the Pocono Mountains “home.”
MYSTIFIED earned Honorable Mention from Writer’s Digest in its 2022 Self-Published E-Book Awards.
Julia has also authored a dark fantasy series: The ELI Chronicles. This series includes THE ONE AND ONLY (2018), THE TETHER (2019), and THE TURNING POINT (2020).
THE TURNING POINT earned Honorable Mention from Writer’s Digest in its 2020 Self-Published E-Book Awards and was a Semi-Finalist for the 2020 BookLife Prize competition, sponsored by Publishers Weekly.
Julia lives with her husband and pups on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and also calls the Pocono Mountains “home.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
August 16, 2022
Mystified by Julia Ash
Juliette Annabella Parker is a successful teen beauty queen, Or at least she was a successful beauty queen. This YA ghost story starts with Jules looking on as a body is pulled from the bottom of the pool. Her body. And now she wants to find out who killed her.
Jules life may have had glamour but her life was also highly controlled and restricted thanks to a mom who made Jules live by twenty five rules and actually kept her locked in a dysfunctional and isolated world. But Jules had just met the new boy next door, seventeen year old Tristin, former football hero, a young man who regrets how selfish and narcistic he'd been until he had the chance to reflect on where his life was going and why his parents made the move they made. Tristin can still see Jules even though she's dead so he's going to help her find her kilter
Not all the adults in this story are bad but I can almost imagine some of the dastardly evil adults twirling their mustaches if they actually had a mustache. Bad things have happened and it's obvious more bad things will happen if a few folks have their way. You can only hope that Jules gets to hang around in her ghostly form to give those evil adults their comeuppance.
This is a fun YA ghost story despite the fact that Jules is dead. She'd never been allowed a friend or even to be around other people her age except when she had to be around them for reasons related to beauty competitions. In Tristin she has her first and last best friend for as long as she is still able to use her ghostly body. She and Tristin must hurry though because her time is running out.
Published March 18th 2022 by Julia Ash
This is a Kindle Unlimited selection.
Juliette Annabella Parker is a successful teen beauty queen, Or at least she was a successful beauty queen. This YA ghost story starts with Jules looking on as a body is pulled from the bottom of the pool. Her body. And now she wants to find out who killed her.
Jules life may have had glamour but her life was also highly controlled and restricted thanks to a mom who made Jules live by twenty five rules and actually kept her locked in a dysfunctional and isolated world. But Jules had just met the new boy next door, seventeen year old Tristin, former football hero, a young man who regrets how selfish and narcistic he'd been until he had the chance to reflect on where his life was going and why his parents made the move they made. Tristin can still see Jules even though she's dead so he's going to help her find her kilter
Not all the adults in this story are bad but I can almost imagine some of the dastardly evil adults twirling their mustaches if they actually had a mustache. Bad things have happened and it's obvious more bad things will happen if a few folks have their way. You can only hope that Jules gets to hang around in her ghostly form to give those evil adults their comeuppance.
This is a fun YA ghost story despite the fact that Jules is dead. She'd never been allowed a friend or even to be around other people her age except when she had to be around them for reasons related to beauty competitions. In Tristin she has her first and last best friend for as long as she is still able to use her ghostly body. She and Tristin must hurry though because her time is running out.
Published March 18th 2022 by Julia Ash
This is a Kindle Unlimited selection.
May 29, 2022
4.5 YA Stars:
Although YA isn’t my favored genre (I have enjoyed Rainbow Rowell), I do like a good ghost story! Author Julia Ash ventures into the paranormal with her new release, “Mystified”. What sealed it for me is that two teens end up sleuthing their way into discovering who murdered teen beauty queen Jules Parker. I do enjoy a page-turning murder mystery.
The story opens with fifteen-year-old Jules Parker witnessing her own drowning and rescue. Watching the grounds keeper attempting to revive her, Jules tries to come to terms with her own death. Jules inadvertently crosses paths with her new neighbor, a mysterious teenaged boy, Truitt Windsor.
Through flash backs, we learn about Truitt and how he came to be a new neighbor. Also, we discover that Jules was kept captive in a gilded cage. By all appearances she enjoyed a privileged life. Her mother, Connie, was a former Miss America who becomes obsessed with Jules and her crowning mission. I’m not sure where Ms. Ash got her ideas for the maternal treatment of Jules, but I know there’s much reality TV out there, and it shouldn’t be a shock to read of the lengths a mother will go to get her daughter a crown.
Given the competitive nature of the pageant circuit, there are a couple participants who have motive and interest in Jules’ death. The more the two teens delve into the mystery, the more perps come to light. Sadly, Jules father, a local police officer, also appears to have a motive.
It took me a bit to get into the story. The beginning just didn’t draw me in; it seemed too simple of a plot line. Well, I was wrong. Once the characters grew on me, and I got over the YA part, I really enjoyed the mystery! I also really liked Ash’s ideas of what spirits can and cannot do. I was a HUGE lover of the TV series “The Ghost Whisperer”, and I felt I was reading a story that could have been an episode. Ash does an incredible job of subtly creating a complicated plot line. Her characters in the story are a bit over-the-top, and I attribute that to the YA part; well, that and the piece in which the teens are more mature and ethical than the adults is very YA. Again, I found that to be a tad distracting, for me, at the beginning. After the first 15%, I couldn’t wait to get back to my mystery!
Thus rating wise, I’d give it a solid 5 starts for a YA genre. For the plot development, it’s a solid 4 looking close to 5 stars. The characters just didn’t ring true but were not distracting once I got into it. Therefore, I’d give it a 3 star(but for a YA genre it would be a 5 star). I hope that makes sense. If you enjoyed “The Ghost Whisperer”, then you will love this novel.
I received this book free for an independent review. All opinions are mine!
Although YA isn’t my favored genre (I have enjoyed Rainbow Rowell), I do like a good ghost story! Author Julia Ash ventures into the paranormal with her new release, “Mystified”. What sealed it for me is that two teens end up sleuthing their way into discovering who murdered teen beauty queen Jules Parker. I do enjoy a page-turning murder mystery.
The story opens with fifteen-year-old Jules Parker witnessing her own drowning and rescue. Watching the grounds keeper attempting to revive her, Jules tries to come to terms with her own death. Jules inadvertently crosses paths with her new neighbor, a mysterious teenaged boy, Truitt Windsor.
Through flash backs, we learn about Truitt and how he came to be a new neighbor. Also, we discover that Jules was kept captive in a gilded cage. By all appearances she enjoyed a privileged life. Her mother, Connie, was a former Miss America who becomes obsessed with Jules and her crowning mission. I’m not sure where Ms. Ash got her ideas for the maternal treatment of Jules, but I know there’s much reality TV out there, and it shouldn’t be a shock to read of the lengths a mother will go to get her daughter a crown.
Given the competitive nature of the pageant circuit, there are a couple participants who have motive and interest in Jules’ death. The more the two teens delve into the mystery, the more perps come to light. Sadly, Jules father, a local police officer, also appears to have a motive.
It took me a bit to get into the story. The beginning just didn’t draw me in; it seemed too simple of a plot line. Well, I was wrong. Once the characters grew on me, and I got over the YA part, I really enjoyed the mystery! I also really liked Ash’s ideas of what spirits can and cannot do. I was a HUGE lover of the TV series “The Ghost Whisperer”, and I felt I was reading a story that could have been an episode. Ash does an incredible job of subtly creating a complicated plot line. Her characters in the story are a bit over-the-top, and I attribute that to the YA part; well, that and the piece in which the teens are more mature and ethical than the adults is very YA. Again, I found that to be a tad distracting, for me, at the beginning. After the first 15%, I couldn’t wait to get back to my mystery!
Thus rating wise, I’d give it a solid 5 starts for a YA genre. For the plot development, it’s a solid 4 looking close to 5 stars. The characters just didn’t ring true but were not distracting once I got into it. Therefore, I’d give it a 3 star(but for a YA genre it would be a 5 star). I hope that makes sense. If you enjoyed “The Ghost Whisperer”, then you will love this novel.
I received this book free for an independent review. All opinions are mine!
May 9, 2022
Well, I felt sorry for the girl the whole book!
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
Amazon Review: https://www.amazon.com/review/R3SWA87...
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
Amazon Review: https://www.amazon.com/review/R3SWA87...
May 2, 2022
Fifteen-year-old, beauty pageant queen Jules has been drowned in her family's swimming pool. Who would want her dead? Who would benefit from her death?
Before her death, Jules Parker had strict rules to live by, not to mention being isolated by her mother, a former beauty queen herself. But Jules, like those in her family, had her secrets. Her main secret - her budding friendship with Truitt Windsor, her seventeen-year-old neighbor.
After her death, Truitt isn't afraid to see her ghost. He even helps Jules try to uncover who drowned her. She needs to know, but will she like what she learns?
This was a very enjoyable whodunit involving a ghost wanting to know who caused her death. Along the way, she won’t be the only character learning secrets and getting answers. I really enjoyed the ghost aspect and thought it was done very well in this book.
I always enjoy trying to guess whodunit in these books. The author gives readers several suspects and in enjoyed whittling down my list. I did guess aspect of the book very early on, but that did not affect my enjoyment of the book in any way. In fact, I enjoyed patting myself on the back.
This was a nice murder mystery/ghost/YA read for me which I enjoyed. Most of the characters are unlikeable, some are flawed (aren't we all) while others are likeable. I found the pacing to be spot on, nothing felt rushed or drawn out. I also enjoyed the author's note at the end about her experiences in a haunted house.
Enjoyable, haunted, mysterious.
Thank you to Julia Ash who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Before her death, Jules Parker had strict rules to live by, not to mention being isolated by her mother, a former beauty queen herself. But Jules, like those in her family, had her secrets. Her main secret - her budding friendship with Truitt Windsor, her seventeen-year-old neighbor.
After her death, Truitt isn't afraid to see her ghost. He even helps Jules try to uncover who drowned her. She needs to know, but will she like what she learns?
This was a very enjoyable whodunit involving a ghost wanting to know who caused her death. Along the way, she won’t be the only character learning secrets and getting answers. I really enjoyed the ghost aspect and thought it was done very well in this book.
I always enjoy trying to guess whodunit in these books. The author gives readers several suspects and in enjoyed whittling down my list. I did guess aspect of the book very early on, but that did not affect my enjoyment of the book in any way. In fact, I enjoyed patting myself on the back.
This was a nice murder mystery/ghost/YA read for me which I enjoyed. Most of the characters are unlikeable, some are flawed (aren't we all) while others are likeable. I found the pacing to be spot on, nothing felt rushed or drawn out. I also enjoyed the author's note at the end about her experiences in a haunted house.
Enjoyable, haunted, mysterious.
Thank you to Julia Ash who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
August 18, 2022
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars rounded up
Mystified is a mixture of three different plot genres; paranormal, young adult and a murder mystery.
I liked how the ghost theme played out in the book and the steps that were taken to figure out Jules Parker’s death.
Jules is 15 years old when she drowns. She’s been in the pageantry circuit for most of her life due to having a mother who's also a beauty winner.
Jules mother Constance was a piece of work.
In fact, she was my favorite character in the book because I hated her so much. I’ve always said that there is nothing worse than a boring evil character and this isn't the case with Constance. I loved hating her!
When Jules sees her dead body pulled out of the swimming pool, she freaks out and realizes the new neighbor Truitt can see her.
Truitt and his family have just moved in next door. He’s a teenager that is obsessed with football and trying to help his parents cope with fixing their marriage.
Truitt can see the ghost of Jules and so the dynamic duo start a quest to discover who could have drowned Jules that day and who benefits the most from her death.
The book was a bit slow in the beginning while the plot was being set up. I was struggling a bit to get into the book but then a plot twist happens 40% in, and it changed the whole vibe for me.
I really liked the twist that Julia Ash introduces and enjoyed the plot much more!
Mystified has lots of unlikeable and flawed characters in this one and I enjoyed how most of the character plotlines were resolved.
I’m glad to read this one and experience a different take for a paranormal/supernatural tale!
3.5 stars rounded up
Mystified is a mixture of three different plot genres; paranormal, young adult and a murder mystery.
I liked how the ghost theme played out in the book and the steps that were taken to figure out Jules Parker’s death.
Jules is 15 years old when she drowns. She’s been in the pageantry circuit for most of her life due to having a mother who's also a beauty winner.
Jules mother Constance was a piece of work.
In fact, she was my favorite character in the book because I hated her so much. I’ve always said that there is nothing worse than a boring evil character and this isn't the case with Constance. I loved hating her!
When Jules sees her dead body pulled out of the swimming pool, she freaks out and realizes the new neighbor Truitt can see her.
Truitt and his family have just moved in next door. He’s a teenager that is obsessed with football and trying to help his parents cope with fixing their marriage.
Truitt can see the ghost of Jules and so the dynamic duo start a quest to discover who could have drowned Jules that day and who benefits the most from her death.
The book was a bit slow in the beginning while the plot was being set up. I was struggling a bit to get into the book but then a plot twist happens 40% in, and it changed the whole vibe for me.
I really liked the twist that Julia Ash introduces and enjoyed the plot much more!
Mystified has lots of unlikeable and flawed characters in this one and I enjoyed how most of the character plotlines were resolved.
I’m glad to read this one and experience a different take for a paranormal/supernatural tale!
May 12, 2022
4-4.5
I knew that this was going to be a ghostly tale involving a mysterious death and that is what my brain focused on when I was asked by the author to read and review this book. I wanted to find out what tools she gave a ghost(s) in her realm to haunt, observe, and possibly communicate with the living. Mysteries and ghosts were all I needed to hear! So, thank you for giving me a copy, Julia! The following is my honest and unbiased opinion of the book:
Have you ever known someone that is just as good as gold; that acts on their word, and seems to be an all around lovely person? The main character, Jules, seems to be written that way to me. She is raised to respect others, to be polite and poised by her former beauty Queen mother; yet at home receives little of it in return. Jules is only 15, but she is doing well in the beauty world and tries to follow her mother’s posted and restrictive rules… mostly.
The woman barely lets her breathe, so forget about being a normal kid. And when Jules does breathe, it’s inside, alone, studying and locked up in her room, most likely. I wanted to hire some of the more zealous primates at the zoo to fling things at her Mother—oh, handler. Sorry. Sounds very FBI, but yes, handler.
There was an entire estate household and no one spoke up about how she was treated. And it is bizarre; especially considering Juliette’s father’s occupation as a detective. Uhhuh! Did he know this happened? Did he let this go on?
Former beauty Queen Constance Parker was inherently wealthy and very manipulative. Hickory Thicket is a small town. Did she buy ppl off? Hmm. Oh it’s so much worse than that! I loved to see what web Connie was weaving for herself!
She had an assistant even, though if we are taking my opinion, Mindy be nay-stee and was working for herself and nobody else from day one. Yuck.
Maybe that all has something to do with this entire mess huh?
Ghosts, mysterious death, wealth, secrets, jealousy, leads to lies, = someone dies!
A concept repeated is the wealthy have thousands of secrets, and where there is one secret there is bound to be another.
Anyway when the mystery was solved; I still didn’t feel settled. I felt like there was part of the mystery left wide open intentionally. (Or is it.. hmm. I think I’ll have a very precisely measured cup of tea and ponder it. Eh, Julia? But not the good saucer and cup!)
There was some sports metaphors, revelations of the ghostly kind, some good-ole-fashioned-cold spots, energy zaps, messages, and justice of the first kind. Yes, the ghosts were involved a bit and I’m glad.
The part that I felt was the best message was that; it isn’t too late. Redemption is within reach. There are no do overs. What is done, is done— but change can only come now. (Stand up for yourself; stop being such an entitled jerk; spend time with your family; stop smothering your daughter; you don’t have to stay a victim!) are all from from the book.
TW:
This has a few very adult situations in it but reading the main characters for the most part is pleasant. I’m putting that bc of the age of the MC, some ppl might think it’s ya or something. There is also instances of child abuse through substance, entrapment, endangerment.. (possibly neglect), isolation , etc.
I don’t recall any animals getting hurt, though there are characters in here that wouldn’t hesitate.
I knew that this was going to be a ghostly tale involving a mysterious death and that is what my brain focused on when I was asked by the author to read and review this book. I wanted to find out what tools she gave a ghost(s) in her realm to haunt, observe, and possibly communicate with the living. Mysteries and ghosts were all I needed to hear! So, thank you for giving me a copy, Julia! The following is my honest and unbiased opinion of the book:
Have you ever known someone that is just as good as gold; that acts on their word, and seems to be an all around lovely person? The main character, Jules, seems to be written that way to me. She is raised to respect others, to be polite and poised by her former beauty Queen mother; yet at home receives little of it in return. Jules is only 15, but she is doing well in the beauty world and tries to follow her mother’s posted and restrictive rules… mostly.
The woman barely lets her breathe, so forget about being a normal kid. And when Jules does breathe, it’s inside, alone, studying and locked up in her room, most likely. I wanted to hire some of the more zealous primates at the zoo to fling things at her Mother—oh, handler. Sorry. Sounds very FBI, but yes, handler.
There was an entire estate household and no one spoke up about how she was treated. And it is bizarre; especially considering Juliette’s father’s occupation as a detective. Uhhuh! Did he know this happened? Did he let this go on?
Former beauty Queen Constance Parker was inherently wealthy and very manipulative. Hickory Thicket is a small town. Did she buy ppl off? Hmm. Oh it’s so much worse than that! I loved to see what web Connie was weaving for herself!
She had an assistant even, though if we are taking my opinion, Mindy be nay-stee and was working for herself and nobody else from day one. Yuck.
Maybe that all has something to do with this entire mess huh?
Ghosts, mysterious death, wealth, secrets, jealousy, leads to lies, = someone dies!
A concept repeated is the wealthy have thousands of secrets, and where there is one secret there is bound to be another.
Anyway when the mystery was solved; I still didn’t feel settled. I felt like there was part of the mystery left wide open intentionally. (Or is it.. hmm. I think I’ll have a very precisely measured cup of tea and ponder it. Eh, Julia? But not the good saucer and cup!)
There was some sports metaphors, revelations of the ghostly kind, some good-ole-fashioned-cold spots, energy zaps, messages, and justice of the first kind. Yes, the ghosts were involved a bit and I’m glad.
The part that I felt was the best message was that; it isn’t too late. Redemption is within reach. There are no do overs. What is done, is done— but change can only come now. (Stand up for yourself; stop being such an entitled jerk; spend time with your family; stop smothering your daughter; you don’t have to stay a victim!) are all from from the book.
TW:
This has a few very adult situations in it but reading the main characters for the most part is pleasant. I’m putting that bc of the age of the MC, some ppl might think it’s ya or something. There is also instances of child abuse through substance, entrapment, endangerment.. (possibly neglect), isolation , etc.
I don’t recall any animals getting hurt, though there are characters in here that wouldn’t hesitate.
April 22, 2022
Not your average ghost story
Julia Ash writes flawless in this marvelous story that flowed seamlessly.
The drowning of a beauty queen, the mysterious boy next door, the drama surrounding the people who had so many motives, and a very unexpected conclusion.
Let's not leave out the ghost!
I received this book from the author for my honest review. Looking forward to the next book.
Julia Ash writes flawless in this marvelous story that flowed seamlessly.
The drowning of a beauty queen, the mysterious boy next door, the drama surrounding the people who had so many motives, and a very unexpected conclusion.
Let's not leave out the ghost!
I received this book from the author for my honest review. Looking forward to the next book.
April 29, 2022
So, I really had a lot of fun reading this. It's hard to give many details without spoiling anything, but from the book description on Goodreads and the back cover, you can get the gist that this is a murder mystery and ghost story combined. Both elements are done really well in this story, and it was fun all the way to the end wondering where the story would finally end up - and it was not where I expected!
As with the other books I've read by this author, the characters that are written are really well done. They are very believable, and quite varying. I enjoyed them a bunch. Some of the core values that the author really played on the other series of hers that I read also come out here, and it is refreshing to read stories like this mixed in with all of the darkness of my other reads.
So, I'm going with a solid 4/5 stars. Very enjoyable.
As with the other books I've read by this author, the characters that are written are really well done. They are very believable, and quite varying. I enjoyed them a bunch. Some of the core values that the author really played on the other series of hers that I read also come out here, and it is refreshing to read stories like this mixed in with all of the darkness of my other reads.
So, I'm going with a solid 4/5 stars. Very enjoyable.
April 5, 2022
I don't know if I've ever read a book that has the perfect language for imagery. Every detail of each chapter was explained so brilliantly that the reader can easily picture themselves within the story and that makes me more excited to read this book. This book also was descriptive on social status. Teen girl winning a junior teen pageant and a cop that's her father who is trying to pay a down payment only to be stiffed by a loan shark. To our dismay, the book at parts got really dark due to stress and then I could really feel the pain Jules was going through and saddened that she had to resort to such solutions. Now with secrets out and truths unveiled, I could not ask for a juicer plot. Life insurance policies, down payments and a missing wife are key elements of a justice case. Then Truitt would stop at nothing to get to the bottom of the case and find the truth about losing his friend Jules. Then my heart stopped when Jules and Truitt's secret was unveiled, major plot twist. Then just as it could not get any more twisted, more secrets are unveiled causing the story to take a whole new turn. This book was unbelievably intoxicating in the best way possible that I could not stop reading without finding out the truth about literally everyone not justIfied and Truitt.
A mystery that will take you on the thrill ride of your life. This book gets 5 stars easily.
A mystery that will take you on the thrill ride of your life. This book gets 5 stars easily.
June 8, 2022
"Mystified" by Julia Ash is an engaging thriller in the dark fantasy genre. A deft storyteller, Julia invites us into a captivating world of her work as she introduces us to 15-year-old Juliette Anabella Parker, a teenage beauty pageant queen. She begins a relationship with a seventeen-year-old boy next door, Truitt Windsor, which she keeps a secret from the watchful eye of her mother.
When Juliette is murdered and her body found at the bottom of her family's swimming pool, she returns to earth as a ghost to find her killer with the help of Truitt. Gradually, she begins to unearth deadly family secrets that had been hidden from her for years and discovers that Truitt is not who he claims to be. This is a story full of intrigue, drama, loss, and self-discovery.
With a blend of paranormal elements, mystery, and lucid prose, "Mystified" moves with a propulsive force to a satisfying conclusion. Thanks to the author's sublimity, the story evokes all types of emotions as readers are inevitably drawn in into the plot. The characters too are brilliantly fleshed out across the chapters. This book is sure to make a mark in the literary world!
When Juliette is murdered and her body found at the bottom of her family's swimming pool, she returns to earth as a ghost to find her killer with the help of Truitt. Gradually, she begins to unearth deadly family secrets that had been hidden from her for years and discovers that Truitt is not who he claims to be. This is a story full of intrigue, drama, loss, and self-discovery.
With a blend of paranormal elements, mystery, and lucid prose, "Mystified" moves with a propulsive force to a satisfying conclusion. Thanks to the author's sublimity, the story evokes all types of emotions as readers are inevitably drawn in into the plot. The characters too are brilliantly fleshed out across the chapters. This book is sure to make a mark in the literary world!
April 14, 2022
This book is a thoroughly enjoyable take on the classic murder mystery. Captivating and easy to read, I found it to be a real page-turner and very much enjoyed the author's writing style. The ensemble of characters are all "in the frame" at different times and to different extents, and their stories and alibis are crafted so as to retain the reader's interest throughout. There are also a few twists which genuinely caught me off guard, including the ending. I won't say any more at risk of spoiling the plot, but would recommend this book to anyone who fancies a good holiday novel!
July 31, 2024
Someone drowned teen beauty queen, Juliette Annabella Parker.
Prior to her death, 15-year-old Jules reigned as the nation’s darling of beauty pageantry. On her parents’ waterfront estate in rural-rich Hickory Thicket, however, she was beset by dark family secrets—those which kept her isolated. Of course, Jules had harbored a few secrets of her own, including her forbidden friendship with the new teen next door, 17-year-old Truitt Windsor.
Jules’s drowned corpse should’ve ended their budding relationship. Except, Truitt sees ghosts and isn’t afraid. Now he’s eager to help Jules solve her murder; only, she can’t be sure of his innocence. In fact, everyone on the estate is suspect, even her parents.
Finding her killer is Jules’s obsession. Not knowing could haunt her for eternity. But her time on Earth is quickly fading…
4.5 ★
Haunting.
My friend told me about this author. When I started reading Mystified , I wished I knew about her sooner. Mystified is the type of story I like mystery combined with some paranormal. Since middle school, I've loved mysteries and the supernatural, especially ones with ghosts. Since then, I have read many mysteries and a few ghost stories. This book was unlike anything else I'd read before, and I loved how part of it was told through the eyes of Juliette's spirit. Almost every page kept me on the edge of my seat, curious about what would happen next. A few times, I stayed up late reading because I couldn't stop myself. I wondered if Jules's spirit could move on once she understood what had happened to her. This is a story you won't be able to put down easily.
I adored the relationship between Jules and Truitt. The two of them had connection right from the beginning. Jules needed a friend like him. If it were not for Jules' mother. I can't believe no one noticed or commented on Jules' mother's treatment of her; how could anyone think it was normal? I can't recall the last time I despised a character as much as Constance did. It was tough to like her; I wonder if she loved Jules. The only positive aspect of Jules' death was that she was finally able to escape her mother.
I did feel that a couple of things dragged on, although that didn’t last long. Overall, I couldn't get enough of the book, and a part of me didn't want the story to end. I had the pleasure of meeting Julia Ash at a recent book signing, and I hope to see her again in the future. I am excited to see what she has in store for us next.
Prior to her death, 15-year-old Jules reigned as the nation’s darling of beauty pageantry. On her parents’ waterfront estate in rural-rich Hickory Thicket, however, she was beset by dark family secrets—those which kept her isolated. Of course, Jules had harbored a few secrets of her own, including her forbidden friendship with the new teen next door, 17-year-old Truitt Windsor.
Jules’s drowned corpse should’ve ended their budding relationship. Except, Truitt sees ghosts and isn’t afraid. Now he’s eager to help Jules solve her murder; only, she can’t be sure of his innocence. In fact, everyone on the estate is suspect, even her parents.
Finding her killer is Jules’s obsession. Not knowing could haunt her for eternity. But her time on Earth is quickly fading…
4.5 ★
Haunting.
My friend told me about this author. When I started reading Mystified , I wished I knew about her sooner. Mystified is the type of story I like mystery combined with some paranormal. Since middle school, I've loved mysteries and the supernatural, especially ones with ghosts. Since then, I have read many mysteries and a few ghost stories. This book was unlike anything else I'd read before, and I loved how part of it was told through the eyes of Juliette's spirit. Almost every page kept me on the edge of my seat, curious about what would happen next. A few times, I stayed up late reading because I couldn't stop myself. I wondered if Jules's spirit could move on once she understood what had happened to her. This is a story you won't be able to put down easily.
I adored the relationship between Jules and Truitt. The two of them had connection right from the beginning. Jules needed a friend like him. If it were not for Jules' mother. I can't believe no one noticed or commented on Jules' mother's treatment of her; how could anyone think it was normal? I can't recall the last time I despised a character as much as Constance did. It was tough to like her; I wonder if she loved Jules. The only positive aspect of Jules' death was that she was finally able to escape her mother.
I did feel that a couple of things dragged on, although that didn’t last long. Overall, I couldn't get enough of the book, and a part of me didn't want the story to end. I had the pleasure of meeting Julia Ash at a recent book signing, and I hope to see her again in the future. I am excited to see what she has in store for us next.
April 7, 2022
Mystified by Julia Ash is a novel that will have readers questioning everything that happens. This novel will remind readers that everyone chooses a different path and that every path has consequences. Ash has a way with words and it's very telling in this novel. The pacing is slow, but readers will never get bored of it. It will keep them wanting more as they continue to read it. Especially since there are certain characters that draw your attention. Although the main mystery of the story can be very anticlimactic to some, others will enjoy it. Anyone who is a young adult will enjoy this book very much. I give this book a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
April 6, 2022
Loved every line of this book. It was such a captivating story that you can just finish in one sitting.
The main character, Jules lives a very isolated life and as her mother's daughter she should be the perfect beauty pageant. However, the perception that the world has of Jules and her family is a mirage. It turns out that even the young and smart Jules did not know much about her family, only half truths. In the beginning, Jules reminded me of Rapunzel, locked away with the yearn to live and explore the outside world. Unfortunately she never gets to live her dreams because of her untimely death. She only discovers of the hidden truths after she dies when she is a ghost. It is also heartbreaking how she finds a genuine connection only after her death. This is why her friendship with Truitt is beautiful but bittersweet.
The story will hook you from the very first page. It has a marvelous pace and you will not even notice time. The plot twists will leave you exasperated. Ash does a magnificent job at meshing together the dark family secrets of the rich with the paranormal. Absolutely spellbinding. The characters are well-developed, especially Mother. She was an unlikable character but her character shows the mastery of Ash. Mother is a complex and interesting character. Her backstory, her life, her mannerisms, her worldview, her actions and her approach to motherhood make for one of the most memorable villainesses.
Mystified is one of those books that will be latched to your memory for a long time, you will keep thinking about it for days. I would recommend this book even to those who are not fans of the paranormal. It is absolutely marvelous. It is gripping, emotional and compelling.
The main character, Jules lives a very isolated life and as her mother's daughter she should be the perfect beauty pageant. However, the perception that the world has of Jules and her family is a mirage. It turns out that even the young and smart Jules did not know much about her family, only half truths. In the beginning, Jules reminded me of Rapunzel, locked away with the yearn to live and explore the outside world. Unfortunately she never gets to live her dreams because of her untimely death. She only discovers of the hidden truths after she dies when she is a ghost. It is also heartbreaking how she finds a genuine connection only after her death. This is why her friendship with Truitt is beautiful but bittersweet.
The story will hook you from the very first page. It has a marvelous pace and you will not even notice time. The plot twists will leave you exasperated. Ash does a magnificent job at meshing together the dark family secrets of the rich with the paranormal. Absolutely spellbinding. The characters are well-developed, especially Mother. She was an unlikable character but her character shows the mastery of Ash. Mother is a complex and interesting character. Her backstory, her life, her mannerisms, her worldview, her actions and her approach to motherhood make for one of the most memorable villainesses.
Mystified is one of those books that will be latched to your memory for a long time, you will keep thinking about it for days. I would recommend this book even to those who are not fans of the paranormal. It is absolutely marvelous. It is gripping, emotional and compelling.
September 22, 2022
'To everything there is a season, ... a time to every purpose.'
A nice murder/mystery with 'Ghost Whisperer' vibes and a great little ghostly twist.
Mystified gives us the story of a 15-year-old girl trying to solve her own murder. And just as all other books by this author, it dares to give us a ‘different’ take on the usual of the genre.
‘Death has a twisted sense of humor.’
It was absolutely refreshing to read about a murder mystery from the perspective of a ghost. And not just any ghost, mind you. Because this Casper here, could really show some attitude. :D
I really loved this author's take on ghostly powers.
The plot seems a bit too linear at first and none of the characters are very likeable. And perhaps this is why, after the bang of the first scene, I found myself drifting off. It was only after passing the 40% mark that I started to get invested and properly hooked. That was one really cool twist I absolutely loved. And did NOT see coming at all! From then on, I couldn’t turn pages fast enough. Yes, it was that gripping. Because by then, even the seemingly linear plot had also subtly transformed into something a lot more complex than I was expecting.
Mystified is one of those books that give you flawed and imperfect characters. No heroes to root for, but morally grey and, at times perfect-to-hate, real people. Nicely drawn and beautifully fleshed out characters who thread a fine line in between good and evil. Not even Jules herself is perfect, despite her perfect beauty.
I didn’t really love any of them, but loved to hate the queen mother. I swear that woman is as despicable as it gets!
The narrative is nicely flowing and peppered with little tidbits providing us with the occasional food for thought.
‘Pack lightly and travel with ease.’
I don’t want to spoil the mystery for anyone planning to read this, so I’ll slap some duct tape on my mouth as far as that’s concerned. Because no review should ruin a good whodoneit. So I’ll let you discover it all by yourselves. But before I call it a day and take my leave, I’ll let you all know what you should expect if you decide to take a chance on Mystified.
Rich people with a secret or two… thousand.
Two teenagers who find their way to each other and perhaps love.
Parents you’ll want to mostly punch and friends to occasionally hug.
Despicable villains, a truth that isn’t by far pretty, and well deserved earned second chances.
The end was perfect as such and yet, it left me with a feeling of something missing. And that is also the reason I've cut down a star. Apart from this complaint that might be entirely related to myself, and the slow start, this book is an addictive ghost mystery you won't be able to set down.
Happy reading Bookdragons
And remember,
‘Now is the only time change occurs.’
A nice murder/mystery with 'Ghost Whisperer' vibes and a great little ghostly twist.
Mystified gives us the story of a 15-year-old girl trying to solve her own murder. And just as all other books by this author, it dares to give us a ‘different’ take on the usual of the genre.
‘Death has a twisted sense of humor.’
It was absolutely refreshing to read about a murder mystery from the perspective of a ghost. And not just any ghost, mind you. Because this Casper here, could really show some attitude. :D
I really loved this author's take on ghostly powers.
The plot seems a bit too linear at first and none of the characters are very likeable. And perhaps this is why, after the bang of the first scene, I found myself drifting off. It was only after passing the 40% mark that I started to get invested and properly hooked. That was one really cool twist I absolutely loved. And did NOT see coming at all! From then on, I couldn’t turn pages fast enough. Yes, it was that gripping. Because by then, even the seemingly linear plot had also subtly transformed into something a lot more complex than I was expecting.
Mystified is one of those books that give you flawed and imperfect characters. No heroes to root for, but morally grey and, at times perfect-to-hate, real people. Nicely drawn and beautifully fleshed out characters who thread a fine line in between good and evil. Not even Jules herself is perfect, despite her perfect beauty.
I didn’t really love any of them, but loved to hate the queen mother. I swear that woman is as despicable as it gets!
The narrative is nicely flowing and peppered with little tidbits providing us with the occasional food for thought.
‘Pack lightly and travel with ease.’
I don’t want to spoil the mystery for anyone planning to read this, so I’ll slap some duct tape on my mouth as far as that’s concerned. Because no review should ruin a good whodoneit. So I’ll let you discover it all by yourselves. But before I call it a day and take my leave, I’ll let you all know what you should expect if you decide to take a chance on Mystified.
Rich people with a secret or two… thousand.
Two teenagers who find their way to each other and perhaps love.
Parents you’ll want to mostly punch and friends to occasionally hug.
Despicable villains, a truth that isn’t by far pretty, and well deserved earned second chances.
The end was perfect as such and yet, it left me with a feeling of something missing. And that is also the reason I've cut down a star. Apart from this complaint that might be entirely related to myself, and the slow start, this book is an addictive ghost mystery you won't be able to set down.
Happy reading Bookdragons
And remember,
‘Now is the only time change occurs.’
May 3, 2022
I love mysteries, and this one really sucked me in and kept me interested. This book kept me interested from beginning to end, and with each twist and turn I couldn't wait to find out more. I really enjoyed reading this book and would totally recommend it to friends who love to read mysteries as well. It's well worth the price, and I will probably read this book again from front to back.
January 2, 2024
With tears in my eyes I must say, "Oh my, I enjoyed this book."
Julia Ash spins excellent stories. Wonderful characters and some you grow to hate very quickly. And there are a lot of characters but I had no problem keeping up with who was who. The story grabbed me right from the get-go. Julia Ash knows how to write an excellent ghost story. Keep up the good work.
Julia Ash spins excellent stories. Wonderful characters and some you grow to hate very quickly. And there are a lot of characters but I had no problem keeping up with who was who. The story grabbed me right from the get-go. Julia Ash knows how to write an excellent ghost story. Keep up the good work.
April 14, 2022
Dark fantasy author Julia Ash makes her YA debut in this thrilling paranormal murder mystery. 15-year old Juliette "Jules" Annabella Parker lives a life of high expectations and strict rules as a teenage beauty queen. Isolated in her parents estate, Jules is always under the watchful eye and constant scrutiny of her mother, a former beauty queen, and has a social life that is practically nonexistent. But this changes when she befriends her new next door neighbor, 17-year old Truitt Windsor, despite having to keep their friendship a secret from her parents. But Jules life is tragically cut short when she is murdered and her corpse is discovered at the bottom of her family's swimming pool. Jules returns to Earth as a ghost and is determined to seek out her murderer. Together with Truitt, who can see spirits, the friends work together to find Jules's killer. Their search leads Jules to uncover some dark family secrets that turn her life upside down and changes the way she views her family. Not to mention that Truitt is hiding a few secrets of his own. But Jules's time on Earth as a spirit is limited, so Jules and Truitt must race against time to solve Jules's murder before she fades into eternity. Though the novel has a slow moving plot, suspense fans will be entertained by the unexpected plot twists and turns that Jules and Truitt face.
April 3, 2022
Oh My This Book Was Astounding
I really don't know exactly where to begin. For starters, this novel has absolutely everything.
Jules is the main protagonist and she along with her mysterious friend Truitt, emabark on a journey to solve a murder mystery. I do not want to spoil this for any future readers, but the reader will be shocked to learn the truth about who Truitt and eventually Jules really are.
They aren't the only ones, however. The entire household Jules lives with are all liars. Her mother, father, and anyone she's ever trusted. Everyone wears mask in this book.
On the surface, Jules is a beautiful 15 year old peagent queen. She appears to have it all: a gorgeous estate, parents who love her, and toms of money. But, when tragedy strikes her suddenly she is determined to uncover the truth about her parents and all of her supposed "friends".
She comes to realize she was abused, used, and manipulated her whole life. But, she does know whom she should focus on. One things for sure though; she can trust no one except Truitt.
After intense investigation and constant lies, the truth is finally revealed to her. And, she and her friend find the serenity they were after upon finally uncovering the painful truth.
At last, she find redemption and peace. A truly heartwarming story, I could not put it down!!
I really don't know exactly where to begin. For starters, this novel has absolutely everything.
Jules is the main protagonist and she along with her mysterious friend Truitt, emabark on a journey to solve a murder mystery. I do not want to spoil this for any future readers, but the reader will be shocked to learn the truth about who Truitt and eventually Jules really are.
They aren't the only ones, however. The entire household Jules lives with are all liars. Her mother, father, and anyone she's ever trusted. Everyone wears mask in this book.
On the surface, Jules is a beautiful 15 year old peagent queen. She appears to have it all: a gorgeous estate, parents who love her, and toms of money. But, when tragedy strikes her suddenly she is determined to uncover the truth about her parents and all of her supposed "friends".
She comes to realize she was abused, used, and manipulated her whole life. But, she does know whom she should focus on. One things for sure though; she can trust no one except Truitt.
After intense investigation and constant lies, the truth is finally revealed to her. And, she and her friend find the serenity they were after upon finally uncovering the painful truth.
At last, she find redemption and peace. A truly heartwarming story, I could not put it down!!
March 2, 2025
I loved this book! From its beautiful cover art to its unique tale of a teenage ghost. This is the most charming ghost story/mystery I've ever come across. It is truly a wonderful read!
July 25, 2022
Mystified by Julia Ash is a enchantingly written murder mystery. The storyline is intriguing, suspenseful and full of cliff-hanging twists and turns. Most interestingly, the plot is based upon paranormal incidents, which make it all the more engaging and keeps the reader on edge. It revolves around the murder of Juliette Annabella Parker, a 15 year old teenage beauty queen, in mysterious circumstances. Her teenager boyfriend sets on a mission to unveil the truth behind her murder.
The narrative of the book is crisp and clear and the characters are so well crafted, that the reader in no time starts to feel the miserable loneliness and seclusion faced by Juliette. The love between Juliette and Truitt tugs one's heart and fills it with warmth. Reader will not be able to put down the book till the climax is revealed.
The narrative of the book is crisp and clear and the characters are so well crafted, that the reader in no time starts to feel the miserable loneliness and seclusion faced by Juliette. The love between Juliette and Truitt tugs one's heart and fills it with warmth. Reader will not be able to put down the book till the climax is revealed.
July 22, 2022
I do not frequently read young adult genre books but one can always love a good ghost story with a thrilling mystery attached to it. So here is my review of the book.
Also, there will be no ghost-like spoilers ahead, so read without a ghostbuster.
The plot was generic in the beginning but boy it takes a full 180 later. And the change happened for good. I loved the pacing and the twists. The author does a very good job of maintaining the mystery and keeping the reader on the edge. Loved the supernatural element and the storytelling, as well.
The only thing which made me deduct a star, in my sole opinion, were the characters. To be honest, they were a little too generic. This novel had the potential to go from good to a masterpiece if only the characters had a little depth. Other than that the novel does everything pretty much right.
So yeah it was a fun and very interesting read. If you love mystery or the supernatural, just go for it, it is a very good experience. And while doing so, show the author some love and support. On this note thank you to the author for writing this wonderful book for us nerdy book lovers, we will expect more from your wonderful mind in the future.
Thank you
Regards
Also, there will be no ghost-like spoilers ahead, so read without a ghostbuster.
The plot was generic in the beginning but boy it takes a full 180 later. And the change happened for good. I loved the pacing and the twists. The author does a very good job of maintaining the mystery and keeping the reader on the edge. Loved the supernatural element and the storytelling, as well.
The only thing which made me deduct a star, in my sole opinion, were the characters. To be honest, they were a little too generic. This novel had the potential to go from good to a masterpiece if only the characters had a little depth. Other than that the novel does everything pretty much right.
So yeah it was a fun and very interesting read. If you love mystery or the supernatural, just go for it, it is a very good experience. And while doing so, show the author some love and support. On this note thank you to the author for writing this wonderful book for us nerdy book lovers, we will expect more from your wonderful mind in the future.
Thank you
Regards
September 6, 2023
There was a twist in this one that I should have seen coming but totally didn't. Then I had to go back and re-read to see how I missed it. So who killed the teenage beauty queen? The answer was unexpected. The ending was perfect and I got a little misty eyed.
January 19, 2024
I loved this book! I enjoyed reading this one even more than "Find Them." At first, it was moving a little slow and I also thought I would be disappointed because I do not like YA books, but thankfully, there was no (or very little) YA drama and/or the usual teen shenanigans. Then, it happened...a murder mystery with all my favorite ingredients (paranormal, supernatural, spiritual, suspense)! I mean, how could I not continue reading it? The plot, the setting, and really the overall narrative was great. Unlike some writers who go into too many details when describing a scene, a setting or character, sometimes to the point where the reader becomes bored, Julia delivers with sufficient information and just enough details for the readers to picture the place, the event or perhaps even experience the emotions being described. Speaking of characters, OMG! How about that Constance, the evil Queen Mother? What a B! As one of the readers previously wrote, Constance is the character I love to hate. LOL Lovely ending. Thank you, Julia!
July 25, 2022
Mystified by Julia Ash is a detective story with paranormal elements. When teenager Juliette Annabella Parker, a celebrated beauty queen, gets drowned at her luxury home, she returns as a ghost to figure out who committed the crime and to find some closure.
Only days before her death, she’d met the new next-door neighbor, a boy close to her age. Truitt was her first friend, since her mother never allowed distractions in the past. Fortunately, the boy can still see her as a ghost, and he agrees to help her look for the culprit.
I don’t read many detective stories, so I couldn’t solve the mystery until the very end. There are several plausible suspects, and the reader’s idea of who could be the culprit changes throughout the story.
I particularly loved how well-written Mystified is. The story flows easily, and the development of the scenes is effortless. It’s clear that the author and her team have put a lot of time into the editing and proofreading phase, which makes this book a pleasure to read. The short chapters were also helpful because they allowed me to easily read the novel on the go. I would recommend Mystified to anyone who enjoys mysteries or paranormal stories.
Only days before her death, she’d met the new next-door neighbor, a boy close to her age. Truitt was her first friend, since her mother never allowed distractions in the past. Fortunately, the boy can still see her as a ghost, and he agrees to help her look for the culprit.
I don’t read many detective stories, so I couldn’t solve the mystery until the very end. There are several plausible suspects, and the reader’s idea of who could be the culprit changes throughout the story.
I particularly loved how well-written Mystified is. The story flows easily, and the development of the scenes is effortless. It’s clear that the author and her team have put a lot of time into the editing and proofreading phase, which makes this book a pleasure to read. The short chapters were also helpful because they allowed me to easily read the novel on the go. I would recommend Mystified to anyone who enjoys mysteries or paranormal stories.
September 1, 2022
Another great book by Ash! I enjoyed the paranormal element. Ash kept me guessing at every turn who the murderer might be. Ash again gives us characters we love to hate and others that we love to cheer for!
I saw some people describe this as YA and I thought I’d throw my two cents in the ring. I primarily read YA. While the two main characters are teens, I don’t believe that automatically makes it YA. For me this book read like an adult murder mystery.
I saw some people describe this as YA and I thought I’d throw my two cents in the ring. I primarily read YA. While the two main characters are teens, I don’t believe that automatically makes it YA. For me this book read like an adult murder mystery.
February 18, 2023
Having read and loved the ELI Chronicles, I was very excited to take a look at this fascinating story. I love ghost stories and I enjoy a good murder mystery, so getting both in one had my expectations high.
This story is quite a shift from the larger scale of the ELI Chronicles, but all of the author's strengths adapt quite well to this more intimate tale. Instead of sweeping government games and shenanigans, we explore a very well-crafted and tragic murder that is every bit as compelling; perhaps more so. Such stories are a challenge to pull off believably and build towards a satisfying conclusion, and the added element of our POV character being the murder victim's restless ghost could have, in lesser hands, added a very difficult complication. Here, though, it's handled refreshingly well and adds a unique twist. Juliette is a very sympathetic character and her intelligent but uncomplicated narrative voice works very well here. The descriptive elements are lovely without being a burden to read, and the dialogue is believable and enjoyable. I won't spoil any part of this story except to say that it is well-paced, and the conclusion was eminently satisfying. If you love a good mystery or a good ghost story or both, this is an excellent book and a credit to the author.
This story is quite a shift from the larger scale of the ELI Chronicles, but all of the author's strengths adapt quite well to this more intimate tale. Instead of sweeping government games and shenanigans, we explore a very well-crafted and tragic murder that is every bit as compelling; perhaps more so. Such stories are a challenge to pull off believably and build towards a satisfying conclusion, and the added element of our POV character being the murder victim's restless ghost could have, in lesser hands, added a very difficult complication. Here, though, it's handled refreshingly well and adds a unique twist. Juliette is a very sympathetic character and her intelligent but uncomplicated narrative voice works very well here. The descriptive elements are lovely without being a burden to read, and the dialogue is believable and enjoyable. I won't spoil any part of this story except to say that it is well-paced, and the conclusion was eminently satisfying. If you love a good mystery or a good ghost story or both, this is an excellent book and a credit to the author.
April 10, 2022
Mystified is a fantastic book by an amazing author. I’ve read several of her books before, and they were all great. She really knows how to make characters come to life, and the story is always interesting and fresh. Mystified is no different. As the title suggests, this book presents you with a fun mystery that really pulls you in as you read it. I liked Jule’s, and several of the other characters were fun to get to know too. Overall, it keeps you turning the pages as you get into the mystery. It has a little humor, and the dialogue is natural.
I recommend it to anyone that enjoys a good mystery.
I recommend it to anyone that enjoys a good mystery.
April 21, 2022
Julia Ash has a way of building suspense through any story she writes and Mystified is no different. Mystified is one part mystery and one part supernatural story. It’s full of fun and unexpected twists! If you love classic murder mysteries, this will be a fun edition to your digital library.
April 15, 2022
Mystified is a thriller combined with ghost fiction. It's the perfect blend of things that go bump in the night while also trying trying to race against time to solve a mystery. It was incredibly and the web of lies that untangles as the reader goes through the story. The novel definitely keeps you on your toes. With each new clue, or suspect added to the list I was eager to figure out what happened along with Jules and Truitt.
While this is a ghost story at its main core its also a story about grief and moving on. While we are trying to solve the case and discover the hidden secrets of the community we also see Jules and Truitt go through the stages of accepting grief and trying heal unresolved wounds of the past.
I recommend this novel to those readers who love to solve a good mystery!
While this is a ghost story at its main core its also a story about grief and moving on. While we are trying to solve the case and discover the hidden secrets of the community we also see Jules and Truitt go through the stages of accepting grief and trying heal unresolved wounds of the past.
I recommend this novel to those readers who love to solve a good mystery!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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