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Purgatory Falls Mysteries #1
Mermaid in Troubled Water
As a mermaid, Brooke has never been to the Rocky Mountains. And stumbling across the murder of a werewolf is not a great start to her visit. In the paranormal-only town of Purgatory Falls, though, she's discovered a place where she can reveal her true self for the first time in her life. So she shakes off her unease and tries to enjoy herself, exploring the quaint small town and getting to know its residents, including a dragon shifter police officer. When the official investigation into the crime she witnessed seems to narrow in on the wrong suspect, however, Brooke realizes she might have to start poking around on her own—and begin to test her own magical abilities.
185 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 6, 2022
236 people are currently reading
651 people want to read
About the author
Nikki Haverstock
48 books211 followersNikki Haverstock is a writer who lives on a cattle ranch high in the Rocky Mountains. She has studied comedy writing at Second City and has published 6 cozy mysteries that are heavy on the humor.
Before fleeing the city, she hosted a competitive archery reality show, traveled the world to study volcanoes, taught archery and computer science at a university and now works on her family’s ranch herding cattle. Nikki has more college degrees than she has sense and hopefully one day she will put one to work.
Nikki likes to write comedy pieces that focus on the everyday humor of one-uppers, annoying family members and strange behavior of the ultra-rich. She tried stand up but the cattle weren’t impressed.
Before fleeing the city, she hosted a competitive archery reality show, traveled the world to study volcanoes, taught archery and computer science at a university and now works on her family’s ranch herding cattle. Nikki has more college degrees than she has sense and hopefully one day she will put one to work.
Nikki likes to write comedy pieces that focus on the everyday humor of one-uppers, annoying family members and strange behavior of the ultra-rich. She tried stand up but the cattle weren’t impressed.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
May 9, 2022
Oh this was great! I loved all the different kind of paranormal so i was immediately hooked. Brooke seems to be a good character she is intelligent, compassionate and curious. She ends up in a paranormal enclave by chance while running from home and suddenly she is meeting all kind of paranormals who are not hiding what they are and they do magic something she was forbidden to do until today. Aiden is a protective alpha but i would love to see more of his dragon side or learn what his magic is. When a murder happen he must investigate and with a newcomer in the vicinity he has to meet her....not expecting Brooke.
Really it was too good, the investigation was well written with several twists, I loved secundary characters like Travos , Esmeralda and Twyla. I do have an idea about Chuy....
I just want more of the series
4,5/5
Really it was too good, the investigation was well written with several twists, I loved secundary characters like Travos , Esmeralda and Twyla. I do have an idea about Chuy....
I just want more of the series
4,5/5
May 1, 2022
I rated the book four stars. 95% of the book is definitely a five-star read, but Goodreads doesn't have half stars. However, the first few chapters were hard for me to get through. Particularly Chapter Three. It dragged. I understand that the author was trying to hard to set the scene for the series and the main character, Brooke Newhouse, and it was hard for me to get through that chapter. I just felt that could have been better sprinkled throughout the book because I didn't retain a lot of the details about where everything was. She did much better as Brooke began interacting with the people of Purgatory, CO.
Now for the 95% - Brooke's emotions were excellent and I felt the danger she was in as I read. As it is a mystery the number one thing, for me, is can the author keep me wondering who done it. She did. I also liked that she treated a town full of paranormal creatures, not as stereotypical monsters but as individuals. There are cute moments, like the family with a kid carrying a stuffed dragon, that made the town come alive. I appreciated those moments. They allow the reader to take a breath. She introduced the central characters of the series well and gave glimpses into their personalities that will grow in subsequent books.
If you love mysteries with an amateur sleuth, paranormal, magic, and starting over. I would highly recommend reading it. Just push through Chapter Three.
Nikk Haverstock is a new to me author. I received the book as an ARC and I am not being paid for this review. But, was in the past a reviewer at You Gotta Read Reviews.
Now for the 95% - Brooke's emotions were excellent and I felt the danger she was in as I read. As it is a mystery the number one thing, for me, is can the author keep me wondering who done it. She did. I also liked that she treated a town full of paranormal creatures, not as stereotypical monsters but as individuals. There are cute moments, like the family with a kid carrying a stuffed dragon, that made the town come alive. I appreciated those moments. They allow the reader to take a breath. She introduced the central characters of the series well and gave glimpses into their personalities that will grow in subsequent books.
If you love mysteries with an amateur sleuth, paranormal, magic, and starting over. I would highly recommend reading it. Just push through Chapter Three.
Nikk Haverstock is a new to me author. I received the book as an ARC and I am not being paid for this review. But, was in the past a reviewer at You Gotta Read Reviews.
January 1, 2025
Mermaid in Troubled Water by Nikki Haverstock is the first book in the Purgatory Falls Mysteries series. After breaking up with her fiance, mermaid Brooke finds herself in the paranormal town of Purgatory Falls only to find herself being shot at and then the dead body of an alpha shifter nearby. An excellent introduction, and although I am not usually a fan of the paranormal fantasy books, I enjoyed this one very much and it is probably the best one for me that I have read. I think that because Brooke is new to the paranormal community having being raised with hiding her true nature and abilities and not being exposed previously to paranormals, I was able to learn more about the town of Purgatory Falls and the paranormal community with her. I liked meeting all the various different types of paranormal characters. Aiden sounds especially interesting, a dragon shifter and part of law enforcement. I like that Brooke is new to magic so that we can experience learning about the craft with her. Brooke seems to be an intelligent, capable and strong character but need to stand up more for her wants with her family. I loved Chuy who seems to have attached herself to Brooke just like a guard dog. The mystery was interesting and I can't wait to find out more about the community and all the abilities of all the other paranormals.
May 1, 2022
I read this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Brooke is a mermaid who has found her way to Purgatory Falls, a haven for paranormals. I liked the theme of starting over, and finding one's way in the world - defying tradition and expectations. The writing is fast paced, the characters are distinctive enough that I didn't have trouble keeping them straight, and the plot kept me engaged all the way through. I was fully entertained and wanting to know more about the back stories of the Purgatory Falls residents. I really hope this series takes off and I highly recommend it. It is an engaging mix of magic, fantasy, creativity, friendship and murder.
May 9, 2022
Love reading Nikki's new paranormal series. I got a advance copy to read and review. My honest opinion is I loved the book. I loved reading about Brooke and Adian can't wait to see their relationship to develop with her book. Brooke is a mermaid/human who has problems that we can all relate to. She arrives in town by following her heart after getting dumped by her human boyfriend which upsets her mother since there will be no wedding to plan. From there Brooke starts to meet others like her and find her magic skills to help solve the murder.
Can't wait for the next book to see what happens.....
Can't wait for the next book to see what happens.....
May 11, 2022
I have read several books by this author. Her books never disappoint. The main character travels to a town full of paranormal people. After her arrival there is a murder. EVeryone is on edge wondering who the killer is. The main character is learning how to use her abilities. The book has a great plot and character development. i look forward to the next book in this series.
May 3, 2022
I was fortunate enough to be sent an ARC for an exchange of an honest review.
I'm not always great with words, but I really enjoyed this book. I think it's a wonderful start to what could be a lovely series.
I enjoyed reading about Brooke, I think she has wonderful potential to have her character go through some good adventures and growth.
Its what you would expect from any cozy mystery book, this kept me glued to it and managed to read it in just over a day. It's fun, easy read with a story line to keep you going till the end.
I am excited to see what happens next in Purgatory Falls, will definitely be adding this to my list of books to look out for.
May 22, 2023
“Mermaid in Troubled Water” (Purgatory Falls Mysteries #1) by Nikki Haverstock ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Paranormal Cozy Mystery. Location: The town of Purgatory Falls somewhere in the Rocky Mountains, USA. Date: Present.
S
THE SERIES: Purgatory Falls is an isolated town where non-humans live their lives as their true selves. It’s little and quaint, with a variety of paranormal residents such as Aiden (dragon-shifter police officer), Tavros (Minotaur bar owner), Twyla (dryad), and a mysterious dog named Chuy.
THIS BOOK: Like all sirens/mermaids, Southern Californian Brooke Newhouse was trained by her ageless mother to marry a human man, be the perfect wife, influence others to bring the husband to his full potential. And to always keep secret the fact that she is a paranormal. When her human fiancé dumps her, she’s naturally upset. She gets in her car and drives and drives. She ends up in Purgatory Falls.
Her 1st night there, a werewolf is killed on the river beach near where she is swimming. Someone shoots at her and a dark animal shape pushes her out of the way. When police focus on Bernie, a werewolf with a troubled past, Brooke believes she’s innocent and investigates on her own. Meanwhile, she’s around other paranormals for the 1st time in her life, and testing her abilities by studying magic. She’s learning she’s not just a mermaid, she’s a mermage!
Author Haverstock has written a sweet paranormal mystery with just a hint of romance. Her characters come from all parts of the paranormal spectrum. As the 1 st book in a series, there’s more character development to be done in future books. In the meantime, we have enough to happily read this book, while leaving some information for the future.
Don’t expect a deep, symbolic plot. The plot is simple, her prose is light and quick, making it a great beach read. (Or in this case, a great mountain or river read.) Haverstock cleverly created a hidden town of paranormals, which lends itself to future stories. We need a map of the town to keep track of everything. It’s 4 stars from me🌵📚💁🏼♀️ Thank you to Freebooksy, Ranch Dog Entertainment, and Nikki Haverstock for this ecopy.
S
THE SERIES: Purgatory Falls is an isolated town where non-humans live their lives as their true selves. It’s little and quaint, with a variety of paranormal residents such as Aiden (dragon-shifter police officer), Tavros (Minotaur bar owner), Twyla (dryad), and a mysterious dog named Chuy.
THIS BOOK: Like all sirens/mermaids, Southern Californian Brooke Newhouse was trained by her ageless mother to marry a human man, be the perfect wife, influence others to bring the husband to his full potential. And to always keep secret the fact that she is a paranormal. When her human fiancé dumps her, she’s naturally upset. She gets in her car and drives and drives. She ends up in Purgatory Falls.
Her 1st night there, a werewolf is killed on the river beach near where she is swimming. Someone shoots at her and a dark animal shape pushes her out of the way. When police focus on Bernie, a werewolf with a troubled past, Brooke believes she’s innocent and investigates on her own. Meanwhile, she’s around other paranormals for the 1st time in her life, and testing her abilities by studying magic. She’s learning she’s not just a mermaid, she’s a mermage!
Author Haverstock has written a sweet paranormal mystery with just a hint of romance. Her characters come from all parts of the paranormal spectrum. As the 1 st book in a series, there’s more character development to be done in future books. In the meantime, we have enough to happily read this book, while leaving some information for the future.
Don’t expect a deep, symbolic plot. The plot is simple, her prose is light and quick, making it a great beach read. (Or in this case, a great mountain or river read.) Haverstock cleverly created a hidden town of paranormals, which lends itself to future stories. We need a map of the town to keep track of everything. It’s 4 stars from me🌵📚💁🏼♀️ Thank you to Freebooksy, Ranch Dog Entertainment, and Nikki Haverstock for this ecopy.
May 7, 2022
I was first introduced to Nikki Haverstock through the Target Practice Mysteries series, and have thoroughly enjoyed every one of her books that I have read so far. Thus, It was a great pleasure to be one of her advance readers for her new series about a mermaid (also known as a siren) in a paranormal community in the Rockies. As you will see from my rating, the first book in the new series did not disappoint.
The background premise is that mermaids no longer lure sailors onto rocks to steal their cargo. Instead, they live on land and except when shifted into their water forms are indistinguishable from normal humans. The expected thing for them to do is marry normals and help those men to become richer than they already are, at the same time supporting their wives in comfortable lifestyles. The mermaids outlive their human husbands, and then marry again. The protagonist, Brooke, feels that she wants more than this, but goes along in deference to her mother until she has a big quarrel with her fiance and splits up with him, Rather than face her mother, she gets in her car and starts driving (from California) until she unexpectedly finds the community of Purgatory Falls just in time to be almost a witness to the murder of a werewolf, and finds her own life in danger, especially when she starts investigating.
As is always true with a Nikki Haverstock book, the characters are interestingly drawn and the plot engrossing. Not all mystery readers are fans of the paranormal sub-genre, but for those who are, I recommend this book highly and look forward to the continuation of the series.
The background premise is that mermaids no longer lure sailors onto rocks to steal their cargo. Instead, they live on land and except when shifted into their water forms are indistinguishable from normal humans. The expected thing for them to do is marry normals and help those men to become richer than they already are, at the same time supporting their wives in comfortable lifestyles. The mermaids outlive their human husbands, and then marry again. The protagonist, Brooke, feels that she wants more than this, but goes along in deference to her mother until she has a big quarrel with her fiance and splits up with him, Rather than face her mother, she gets in her car and starts driving (from California) until she unexpectedly finds the community of Purgatory Falls just in time to be almost a witness to the murder of a werewolf, and finds her own life in danger, especially when she starts investigating.
As is always true with a Nikki Haverstock book, the characters are interestingly drawn and the plot engrossing. Not all mystery readers are fans of the paranormal sub-genre, but for those who are, I recommend this book highly and look forward to the continuation of the series.
June 17, 2022
Brooke's engagement was over, her parents were livid, and she wondered why they were more upset than she was. Maybe Edward suspected she wanted to be away from her mother more than she wanted him.
So Brooke went for a thinking break...a couple of states away...and arrived in a place nobody is supposed to find by accident, and not so much on purpose. A place where no humans live. Not that Brooke knew, or planned to say anything. But when someone shot at her, and killed a town resident, she suspected something was rotten in Purgatory Falls.
This resort town for paranormals is bright and cheerful, full of friendly people. The trouble is, no one is very is surprised. That there's an actual killing, yes. That it was "him," not really.
The test of a truly good mystery is not the cleverness of the clues, but how deeply immersed you become in the story.
Brooke is about to learn that "mermaid" doesn't completely describe what she is.
A great beginning to another new series by Nikki Haverstock; I first read Space Murder, and looked for more of her work. While this is a paranormal mystery, it still fits the cozy mystery criteria of a clean story without swearing and on-screen violence. And it is significantly better written and plotted than most other books of either genre.
5/5 Stars
NOTE: Clean story without swearing or on-screen violence.
#MermaidinTroubledWater
#NikkiHaverstock
#PurgatoryFallsMysteriesBook1
#WitchandWizardMysteries
#ComingofAgeFantasy
#ComingofAgeFantasyeBooks
#ParanormalCozyMysteries
#CozyMysteries #ParanormalMysteries
#YAFantasyeBooks #YAFantasy
#YAParanormalMysteries #ParanormalFiction
#MermaidsinFiction #DragonShifterinFiction
So Brooke went for a thinking break...a couple of states away...and arrived in a place nobody is supposed to find by accident, and not so much on purpose. A place where no humans live. Not that Brooke knew, or planned to say anything. But when someone shot at her, and killed a town resident, she suspected something was rotten in Purgatory Falls.
This resort town for paranormals is bright and cheerful, full of friendly people. The trouble is, no one is very is surprised. That there's an actual killing, yes. That it was "him," not really.
The test of a truly good mystery is not the cleverness of the clues, but how deeply immersed you become in the story.
Brooke is about to learn that "mermaid" doesn't completely describe what she is.
A great beginning to another new series by Nikki Haverstock; I first read Space Murder, and looked for more of her work. While this is a paranormal mystery, it still fits the cozy mystery criteria of a clean story without swearing and on-screen violence. And it is significantly better written and plotted than most other books of either genre.
5/5 Stars
NOTE: Clean story without swearing or on-screen violence.
#MermaidinTroubledWater
#NikkiHaverstock
#PurgatoryFallsMysteriesBook1
#WitchandWizardMysteries
#ComingofAgeFantasy
#ComingofAgeFantasyeBooks
#ParanormalCozyMysteries
#CozyMysteries #ParanormalMysteries
#YAFantasyeBooks #YAFantasy
#YAParanormalMysteries #ParanormalFiction
#MermaidsinFiction #DragonShifterinFiction
April 30, 2022
Mermaid in Troubled Water is as the title indicates the first book in a new series. I was excited for the opportunity to receive an ARC of this book as it sounded like just the kind of paranormal mystery that I would enjoy reading and haven't been able to locate in recent years. I really liked the idea of a story about paranormals that did not seem to be filled with a bunch of sexual scenes and this was not. The closest it came was mentions of being attracted to someone and that was not expressed every other sentence which gets old fast. The characters in this story were just paranormals being able to be their true selves and go about their lives without having to hide who they really were.
it is a story about a Mermaid who for once in her life landed in a place where she was able to not have to pretend to be human and to explore her true self. Unfortunately, she finds herself in a dangerous situation which puts a bit of a damper on her exploration.
I really enjoyed Mermaid in Troubled Water. Brooke is a likeable, interesting character along with many of the inhabitants of Purgatory Falls. The town makes an interesting location and contains some unique items. Descriptions are well done. The story is well written. I very much look forward to reading more stories about Brooke and Purgatory Falls.
I received an ARC of Mermaid in Troubled Water for which I am voluntarily giving my honest opinion in this review.
it is a story about a Mermaid who for once in her life landed in a place where she was able to not have to pretend to be human and to explore her true self. Unfortunately, she finds herself in a dangerous situation which puts a bit of a damper on her exploration.
I really enjoyed Mermaid in Troubled Water. Brooke is a likeable, interesting character along with many of the inhabitants of Purgatory Falls. The town makes an interesting location and contains some unique items. Descriptions are well done. The story is well written. I very much look forward to reading more stories about Brooke and Purgatory Falls.
I received an ARC of Mermaid in Troubled Water for which I am voluntarily giving my honest opinion in this review.
May 3, 2022
Mermaid in Troubled Water is the first book in the new Purgatory Falls Mysteries series by Nikki Haverstock and I am in love!!!!
I don't even know where to start! This cozy mystery is filled with so much goodness! Likeable characters, a paranormal small down, a leading lady mermaid, a (delectable!) dragon detective, magic, shifters, and a murder to solve!
Brooke is a mermaid, who grew up with a smothering mother, who groomed her to marry a rich man and be in the background, but Brooke is so much more than that. Finding herself alone after a broken engagement, Brooke decides to leave town to take some time for herself and finds herself (literally & figuratively) in a magical small town filled with the most fascinating people and in danger. I thought Brooke was fascinating and stronger than she's given herself credit for being.
The storyline was fascinating. I loved every second of this book and could not put it down! I was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who the murderer was and if Brooke could figure it out before something happens to hurt her.
I can't wait to see what is in store for Brooke in Purgatory Falls (& I really hope it involves the dragon detective)! I look forward to reading the next book! I know it'll be just as good!
This is definitely a must read paranormal cozy mystery!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I don't even know where to start! This cozy mystery is filled with so much goodness! Likeable characters, a paranormal small down, a leading lady mermaid, a (delectable!) dragon detective, magic, shifters, and a murder to solve!
Brooke is a mermaid, who grew up with a smothering mother, who groomed her to marry a rich man and be in the background, but Brooke is so much more than that. Finding herself alone after a broken engagement, Brooke decides to leave town to take some time for herself and finds herself (literally & figuratively) in a magical small town filled with the most fascinating people and in danger. I thought Brooke was fascinating and stronger than she's given herself credit for being.
The storyline was fascinating. I loved every second of this book and could not put it down! I was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who the murderer was and if Brooke could figure it out before something happens to hurt her.
I can't wait to see what is in store for Brooke in Purgatory Falls (& I really hope it involves the dragon detective)! I look forward to reading the next book! I know it'll be just as good!
This is definitely a must read paranormal cozy mystery!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 7, 2022
Brooke Newhouse is a mermaid aka siren and her whole life her mother has pushed her towards one goal marry a human and use her talents to make him rich and highly successful. Problem is Brooke has never quite felt like she fully fit in anywhere and when she finally caves to her mother and finds a fiancé her life gets worse as he dumps her. She leaves home and drives aimlessly until she happens upon a supe only town Purgatory Falls. It’s both refreshing to be able to be free and truly herself for the first time ever and scary both for that reason and on her first night in town there is a murder. When Brooke has an inkling the police have the wrong suspect she calls upon new friends to try and figure out who really committed the crime.
I read this book straight through I could not put it down! I absolutely love the town of Purgatory Falls and it’s eclectic residents. There’s a definite small town feel but more than that a real sense of inclusion which is lovely. Brooke is definitely a character I want to read more about from her family drama to her search for a place to feel like home she is so relatable and draws you into the story from the get go. The short version: great characters, great world building, great mystery. Absolutely fabulous!
I received an ARC from the author an voluntarily leave this honest review.
I read this book straight through I could not put it down! I absolutely love the town of Purgatory Falls and it’s eclectic residents. There’s a definite small town feel but more than that a real sense of inclusion which is lovely. Brooke is definitely a character I want to read more about from her family drama to her search for a place to feel like home she is so relatable and draws you into the story from the get go. The short version: great characters, great world building, great mystery. Absolutely fabulous!
I received an ARC from the author an voluntarily leave this honest review.
April 30, 2022
This is the first book in a new series about a girl who finally breaks away from her controlling mother and a life her mother had planned for her after her engagement falls through. She ends up in a mountain town full of paranormal persons and after witnessing a murder her first night in town finds acceptance and two friends who help her understand just who she is and help her accept herself.
There is action, mystery and intrigue as she delves into the murder she witnessed that first night when she feels the police haven’t gotten the real murderer.
She is aided by her two new friends and a most unusual third source as well which proves to be of great importance!
I look forward to Brooke’s further adventures in her road to discovering and accepting who and what she is without having to hide and conceal the fact anymore as well as finding her place in the world.
I recommend this book as a good cozy mystery you’ll like and one I think, like me, you’ll want to “read more about it” when the next book in the series comes out.
Hope to see you there because it’s always better to know others enjoy the same story I do! The story will hold your interest throughout and you can guess as you read it whodunnit and see if you’re right as the murderer is exposed.
There is action, mystery and intrigue as she delves into the murder she witnessed that first night when she feels the police haven’t gotten the real murderer.
She is aided by her two new friends and a most unusual third source as well which proves to be of great importance!
I look forward to Brooke’s further adventures in her road to discovering and accepting who and what she is without having to hide and conceal the fact anymore as well as finding her place in the world.
I recommend this book as a good cozy mystery you’ll like and one I think, like me, you’ll want to “read more about it” when the next book in the series comes out.
Hope to see you there because it’s always better to know others enjoy the same story I do! The story will hold your interest throughout and you can guess as you read it whodunnit and see if you’re right as the murderer is exposed.
April 30, 2022
Haverstock does it again!
This book starts with a gripping first chapter and it continues with an engrossing story that I couldn't put down. I loved the main character, Brooke. Her life of hiding who and what she was in order to conform to her mother's strict rules created a realistic backdrop to all the fantasy elements. I loved reading about her slowly discovering what life is like for paranormals who are safe to live in the open, and I thought her reactions to some of the questions about her life were well described.
I love the town of Purgatory Falls. I want to live there! There are so many imaginative shops and restaurants, and I enjoyed learning about the range of paranormals that lived there.
The murder mystery was handled well, but I was much more interested in Brooke, the town, Esmeralda, Twyla and Chuy. My only complaint about this book was that it was too short. I wanted to spend more time with the characters in their magical town. However, this is the first book in a new series, so I hope I will get plenty of opportunity to visit Purgatory Falls again.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This book starts with a gripping first chapter and it continues with an engrossing story that I couldn't put down. I loved the main character, Brooke. Her life of hiding who and what she was in order to conform to her mother's strict rules created a realistic backdrop to all the fantasy elements. I loved reading about her slowly discovering what life is like for paranormals who are safe to live in the open, and I thought her reactions to some of the questions about her life were well described.
I love the town of Purgatory Falls. I want to live there! There are so many imaginative shops and restaurants, and I enjoyed learning about the range of paranormals that lived there.
The murder mystery was handled well, but I was much more interested in Brooke, the town, Esmeralda, Twyla and Chuy. My only complaint about this book was that it was too short. I wanted to spend more time with the characters in their magical town. However, this is the first book in a new series, so I hope I will get plenty of opportunity to visit Purgatory Falls again.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
May 6, 2022
Nikki Haverstock tends to write fun, quick reads with interesting characters and intriguing storylines that gets better as the series develops.
Mermaid in Troubled Water continues that trend - the Purgatory Falls setting offers a tons of opportunities for future stories. The main character, Brooke, a mermaid who has stumbled upon this paranormal town, has enormous room for growth as she learns how to live on her own for the first time.
I enjoy cross-genre settings like this, where magic and fantasy meet cozy murder mystery mixed with the opportunity for romance down the line. This is a solid entry into what I think will be a fun series.
However, it IS the first book and, as such, drags at time under first book introductions to the world and the characters. I don't love Brooke's character voice yet, but feel there is strong potential for improvement as she finds her place, learns how to use her magic, and determines her future plans. I'm definitely going to continue reading the series to see how it develops.
**I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.**
Mermaid in Troubled Water continues that trend - the Purgatory Falls setting offers a tons of opportunities for future stories. The main character, Brooke, a mermaid who has stumbled upon this paranormal town, has enormous room for growth as she learns how to live on her own for the first time.
I enjoy cross-genre settings like this, where magic and fantasy meet cozy murder mystery mixed with the opportunity for romance down the line. This is a solid entry into what I think will be a fun series.
However, it IS the first book and, as such, drags at time under first book introductions to the world and the characters. I don't love Brooke's character voice yet, but feel there is strong potential for improvement as she finds her place, learns how to use her magic, and determines her future plans. I'm definitely going to continue reading the series to see how it develops.
**I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.**
October 9, 2025
Overview: Brooke is running away from a broken engagement. While hiding up in the Rockies, she gives into temptation. As a mermaid, she's not supposed to let every day, non-magical mundane humanity know about her abilities. Now, she's partially witnessed a murder. It's even weirder that the officer who came to investigate the body has asked her species. It turns out that the victim, David, was a werewolf. Who killed David? What is with the strange black dog that keeps tailing Brooke? And has she found a new home in Purgatory Falls? Let's find out.
Dislikes: Brooke's momma seems to want to have her daughters live her life. It's all well and good to follow your parents' example, but it should be your choice. Brooke's momma went too far.
Likes: Esmerelda is the best kind of teacher. Sure she could have sold the amulet, but what better way to get a willing student?
Tarvos is a lot better than what the Greek myths made him out to be.
The wake was quite informative on werewolf politics.
And any scene with Chuy in it is worth reading.
Conclusion: This was fun. If you want a little fantasy with your mystery, then this book is for you. Enjoy the read.
Dislikes: Brooke's momma seems to want to have her daughters live her life. It's all well and good to follow your parents' example, but it should be your choice. Brooke's momma went too far.
Likes: Esmerelda is the best kind of teacher. Sure she could have sold the amulet, but what better way to get a willing student?
Tarvos is a lot better than what the Greek myths made him out to be.
The wake was quite informative on werewolf politics.
And any scene with Chuy in it is worth reading.
Conclusion: This was fun. If you want a little fantasy with your mystery, then this book is for you. Enjoy the read.
May 2, 2022
A fun new paranormal cosy mystery series that leaves you wanting more. I liked the weird and wonderful town Purgatory Falls - where the supernatural is out for everyone to see.
Our heroine and narrator Brooke is a mermaid who has spent her life been groomed by her controlling mother for her role as 'wife' and never allowed to be around other paranormals. When her finacee breaks up with her Brooke jumps in her car and end up in the paranormal town of Purgatory Falls where she is present at the scene of a murder (in the water) without seeing the killer. But she is still in danger being the only witness. So with the help of some new friends - a dragon shifter police officer (& potential romantic interest), a dryad, a minataur scholar and restauranteur and a witch who offers Brooke magic lessons and her burgeoning magic she sets out to help solve the crime and feel safe in the town where she stopped for a few days but is feeling like she may belong.
I received an ARC from the author.
Our heroine and narrator Brooke is a mermaid who has spent her life been groomed by her controlling mother for her role as 'wife' and never allowed to be around other paranormals. When her finacee breaks up with her Brooke jumps in her car and end up in the paranormal town of Purgatory Falls where she is present at the scene of a murder (in the water) without seeing the killer. But she is still in danger being the only witness. So with the help of some new friends - a dragon shifter police officer (& potential romantic interest), a dryad, a minataur scholar and restauranteur and a witch who offers Brooke magic lessons and her burgeoning magic she sets out to help solve the crime and feel safe in the town where she stopped for a few days but is feeling like she may belong.
I received an ARC from the author.
May 2, 2022
Brooke Newhouse left her home in California just to go for a drive to clear her head after her engagement fell apart.
She wound up driving for hours and wound up in the Colorado mountains in a paranormal town called Purgatory Falls.
She goes out for a midnight swim (okay, okay, it's really 3 am) in the nearby river. Just as she shifts to her true form (a mermaid) a large animal hits her moving her out of the way just as bullets go through the water where she just had been.
Once she comes up to see if she is in danger, she sees the body of a dog turning into a man.
The only problem is he's now dead.
Brooke decides to investigate when the wrong person is arrested as she doesn't want to be targeted because the real murderer may think she is an unwanted witness.
A great story and a fun beginning to a new series.
She wound up driving for hours and wound up in the Colorado mountains in a paranormal town called Purgatory Falls.
She goes out for a midnight swim (okay, okay, it's really 3 am) in the nearby river. Just as she shifts to her true form (a mermaid) a large animal hits her moving her out of the way just as bullets go through the water where she just had been.
Once she comes up to see if she is in danger, she sees the body of a dog turning into a man.
The only problem is he's now dead.
Brooke decides to investigate when the wrong person is arrested as she doesn't want to be targeted because the real murderer may think she is an unwanted witness.
A great story and a fun beginning to a new series.
May 2, 2022
Mermaid In Troubled Waters is the story of Brooke a young Mermaid. Brooke has spent her life following her mother's rules:
Never tell a human what you are
Never associate with other paranormal
Marry a human,have Mermaid babies and help said husband get very rich without ever letting him know what you are
Brooke was following all these rules until her human fiance dumped her.
She quits her job,packs her bags and drives away.
That night she arrives in Purgatory Falls to spend the night.
She goes to the local river for a swim while there a werewolf is killed and someone is shooting at her.
Brooke soon discovers that Purgatory Falls is a home for paranormals.
Brooke helps discover the murderer, makes new friends and a possible love interest.
Very refreshing cozy paranormal mystery. I look forward to seeing more stories in this series.
Never tell a human what you are
Never associate with other paranormal
Marry a human,have Mermaid babies and help said husband get very rich without ever letting him know what you are
Brooke was following all these rules until her human fiance dumped her.
She quits her job,packs her bags and drives away.
That night she arrives in Purgatory Falls to spend the night.
She goes to the local river for a swim while there a werewolf is killed and someone is shooting at her.
Brooke soon discovers that Purgatory Falls is a home for paranormals.
Brooke helps discover the murderer, makes new friends and a possible love interest.
Very refreshing cozy paranormal mystery. I look forward to seeing more stories in this series.
May 6, 2022
Looking for a bit of escape after being jilted, mermaid Brooke ends up in Purgatory Falls - a town completely populated by paranormal folks of every imaginable variety. A moonlight swim leads to accidentally witnessing a murder and meeting a hunky, shape-shifting dragon policeman. Unnerved a bit by the crime, she nevertheless settles into the town and begins making friends and pursuing a bit of sleuthing on the side.
This is not my typical genre of choice and I have to admit it never would have occurred to me to cast a mermaid as the lead in a paranormal mystery but it works.
Ms. Haverstock creates engaging characters and smooth dialogue. As the introductory offering to a series, it does a good job of giving us enough information on various folks to make us want more. I know I'll be looking forward to the next installment.
This is not my typical genre of choice and I have to admit it never would have occurred to me to cast a mermaid as the lead in a paranormal mystery but it works.
Ms. Haverstock creates engaging characters and smooth dialogue. As the introductory offering to a series, it does a good job of giving us enough information on various folks to make us want more. I know I'll be looking forward to the next installment.
July 23, 2022
Nikki Haverstock has created a delightful world where magical creatures of all sorts live as humans, but have magical powers. In this delightful cozy mystery, Brooke, a mermaid, ends up in Purgatory, Colorado after her fiancé breaks up with her. Purgatory is a magical town. Brooke has lived her whole life being told to hide her powers and ability to transform into a mermaid. Her first night in Purgatory, she accidentally witnesses a murder while swimming in the river. While the mystery unfolds, Brooke comes to learn more about her powers and potential as a mermage. There are lots of interesting magical characters and a fun world of shape shifting and magic.
I am looking forward to reading more in this series and exploring the author’s other series. Bonus: the book was squeaky clean.
I am looking forward to reading more in this series and exploring the author’s other series. Bonus: the book was squeaky clean.
May 6, 2022
Having read the previous four series written by this author, I found this new series to be a perfect addition to her collection. I found it a light, fun, and a quick read, with a great mix between her Casino Witch series and her Captain Liz series. If you have enjoyed any of her other series, I highly recommend checking this one out. As always the first in series leaves you wanting to learn more about the characters, but I found there was a nice balance of providing enough background without giving too much away for future books in the series. I definitely plan to continue reading with the next installment.
May 7, 2022
As a mermaid, Brooke had been told her whole life that she was to find a rich husband and to never mix with other paranormals. After her engagement fell through, she took off in her car and accidentally ended up in Purgatory Falls - a wholly paranormal town in the mountains - far from her overbearing mother. On her first night in the town she witnesses a murder, but didn't really see who did it. However, she was shot at and only saved by a strange creature in the water. Brooke finds that she likes the town and the people in it. She wants to help find the killer, especially when they arrest someone who is probably not guilty.
May 9, 2022
An engaging start to the Purgatory Falls mystery series! When mermaid-mermage Brooke flees California for a break after her engagement to a human ends without warning she finds herself in the paranormals only town of Purgatory. While taking a dip in the river her first night in town she finds herself under attack and finds she wasn’t the only intended victim when David, a local werewolf vying to leader of the pack, is found dead nearby. Learning about her long suppressed magical abilities while trying to find out who may want her dead and exactly why a big dog is chasing her around town doesn’t deter her from deciding that Purgatory might just be where she belongs after all.
May 10, 2022
This was a great first in the Purgatory Falls series, with several really likable characters in this fun cozy mystery! Brooke is just visiting after a bad breakup and happens to witness the murder of a local Werewolf. Now she is embroiled in all things Purgatory Falls and the local paranormals. When its possible the police have arrested the wrong person, Brooke takes it upon herself to figure out who did it. With the help of Aiden, the town cop and Esmerelda a witch(who is also teaching her to use the magic she never knew she had!), hopefully she can figure this out. I was gifted an ARC of this story in exchange for my honest review. Enjoy
May 11, 2022
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Brooke’s life has her needing a change and she ends up at Purgatory Falls. Murder, mystery and other paranormals seem the order of the day and Brooke is drawn to the small community.
Brooke is a mermaid but has been living on the DL but the whole of Purgatory Falls is living their best lives being open about what they are. It is a game changer and seems to be what Brooke needs.
Mystery gets solved, friendships are made and magic gets learned and taught. I really enjoyed this first book in the series and can’t wait for more stories from this world
Brooke’s life has her needing a change and she ends up at Purgatory Falls. Murder, mystery and other paranormals seem the order of the day and Brooke is drawn to the small community.
Brooke is a mermaid but has been living on the DL but the whole of Purgatory Falls is living their best lives being open about what they are. It is a game changer and seems to be what Brooke needs.
Mystery gets solved, friendships are made and magic gets learned and taught. I really enjoyed this first book in the series and can’t wait for more stories from this world
May 15, 2022
Mermaid in Troubled Water is book #1 in the Purgatory Falls Mysteries series by Nikki Haverstock.
Brooke finds herself in the town of Purgatory Fall, where the paranormal citizens are open about who they are. She ends up near a murder scene her first night in town.
This is a great start to a new series. I really like Brooke and it was interesting seeing her learn to be around people who were open about who they are which was so different from her experience. I can’t wait to see what is in store for Brooke as she learns to use her magic.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Brooke finds herself in the town of Purgatory Fall, where the paranormal citizens are open about who they are. She ends up near a murder scene her first night in town.
This is a great start to a new series. I really like Brooke and it was interesting seeing her learn to be around people who were open about who they are which was so different from her experience. I can’t wait to see what is in store for Brooke as she learns to use her magic.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
January 15, 2023
This is another good mystery by Nikki. I've read some of her other series and the story-telling is consistently good.
The entire story is told from Brooke's point of view. We learn about her character and the world-view through her narrative and dialogue. The book does a good job of setting the stage for the series while providing a satisfying murder mystery.
A good portion of the story is about Brooke discovering her magical powers. It was a little disappointing that she did not use one of them in solving the murder.
This was an enjoyable book to read and I look forward to others in the series.
The entire story is told from Brooke's point of view. We learn about her character and the world-view through her narrative and dialogue. The book does a good job of setting the stage for the series while providing a satisfying murder mystery.
A good portion of the story is about Brooke discovering her magical powers. It was a little disappointing that she did not use one of them in solving the murder.
This was an enjoyable book to read and I look forward to others in the series.
May 6, 2022
I enjoyed this story of Brooke a mermaid who ends up in Colorado after breaking up with her fiance and ends up in a little town of paranormals where she kind of witnesses a murder but not really sees anything. The story is about Brooke discovering her powers and looking into the murder just in case they have the wrong person. She meets interesting and fun characters, enjoys the town and learns about herself. And that pesky murder. Lots of fun and a cute read. Hard to put down as I had to see who the murderer was.
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