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Prickly Pear Psychic Mysteries #1
Mediums & Murder
“Fans of Victoria Laurie or Trixie Silvertale would enjoy this debut book in the Prickly Pear Psychic Mystery series…” ★★★★★
“All of my favorite things…psychics, intuition, romance and mystery…all bound together in this spellbinding story!” ★★★★★
One body, two psychics, and a whole lot of shenanigans have arrived in the sunny town of Prickly Pear, AZ.
I lead a safe and snug life in a small desert town, but I have a secret—I have psychic powers that scare the hippos out of me. They’ve gone wonky before, so now I only use them for the most important purpose—listening to my dogs ask for more steak and more treats. But on an already awful Monday morning, I stumble right into a vision of my friend’s final moments before she’s murdered. Mondays are the worst, right?
Holy cannoli, what do I do? My powers might be able to help find the killer, but I’m more terrified than a whale in the desert. I can’t just tell people I’m psychic, what if they think I’m really just a psycho? Plus it’s not like I have a dusty old crystal ball or a third eye to show me visions on demand. Just as I’m feeling completely befuddled, my long-lost Aunt Irene shows up to tell me we both come from a long line of psychic talent. And she has experience tracking down criminals…
Deciding to dip my toe into the case, I discover one of the officers assigned to the murder investigation is my best friend’s little brother who’s decidedly hunkier than the last time I saw him. The more I investigate, the more he grows suspicious of my impossible knowledge of the case. And my questions aren’t just attracting the attention of the police force—the killer is still at large and desperate to tie up loose ends.
Can I dig deep to embrace my powers before the killer puts me six feet under?
If you like amateur sleuths, humorous adventures, and charming canine companions, then you'll love Elle Wren Burke’s mystical mystery.
Dust off your crystal ball and buy Mediums & Murder today!
“All of my favorite things…psychics, intuition, romance and mystery…all bound together in this spellbinding story!” ★★★★★
One body, two psychics, and a whole lot of shenanigans have arrived in the sunny town of Prickly Pear, AZ.
I lead a safe and snug life in a small desert town, but I have a secret—I have psychic powers that scare the hippos out of me. They’ve gone wonky before, so now I only use them for the most important purpose—listening to my dogs ask for more steak and more treats. But on an already awful Monday morning, I stumble right into a vision of my friend’s final moments before she’s murdered. Mondays are the worst, right?
Holy cannoli, what do I do? My powers might be able to help find the killer, but I’m more terrified than a whale in the desert. I can’t just tell people I’m psychic, what if they think I’m really just a psycho? Plus it’s not like I have a dusty old crystal ball or a third eye to show me visions on demand. Just as I’m feeling completely befuddled, my long-lost Aunt Irene shows up to tell me we both come from a long line of psychic talent. And she has experience tracking down criminals…
Deciding to dip my toe into the case, I discover one of the officers assigned to the murder investigation is my best friend’s little brother who’s decidedly hunkier than the last time I saw him. The more I investigate, the more he grows suspicious of my impossible knowledge of the case. And my questions aren’t just attracting the attention of the police force—the killer is still at large and desperate to tie up loose ends.
Can I dig deep to embrace my powers before the killer puts me six feet under?
If you like amateur sleuths, humorous adventures, and charming canine companions, then you'll love Elle Wren Burke’s mystical mystery.
Dust off your crystal ball and buy Mediums & Murder today!
208 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
January 16, 2022
Prickly Pear, Arizona. Present day. Elle Wren Burke’s Mediums & Murder (Prickly Pear Psychic Mysteries #1) is the author’s first paranormal cozy mystery in this new series which is also new to me. The author specializes in writing light mysteries which have “strong females as protagonists”. I definitely like that - strong females. Alara Beatty, a 30 year old accountant who loves dogs, has psychic powers which she has attempted to keep under control and not use since she discovered that she had these psychic powers. Alara, adopted as a baby by a Prickly Pear couple, believes she is the only one with psychic abilities until she meets her Aunt Irene. Then a murder claims one of Alara’s
coworkers, who is also a friend of Alara’s. Alara wants justice for her friend and decides to use her psychic abilities to get that justice. This is a light ‘fun’ read which is just what I needed this month. In a few places a character’s language made me cringe, but, hopefully, that will improve in #2, Tea & Talismans. 3 stars.
coworkers, who is also a friend of Alara’s. Alara wants justice for her friend and decides to use her psychic abilities to get that justice. This is a light ‘fun’ read which is just what I needed this month. In a few places a character’s language made me cringe, but, hopefully, that will improve in #2, Tea & Talismans. 3 stars.
April 4, 2023
A friend from work, Debbie, has been murdered, and Alara wants to help find the murderer and get justice for her friend. Alara has psychic abilities but since she's adopted there is no family member who can guide her, until Aunt Irene shows up. They team up to look into Debbie's life, and who might have disliked her. Could it be the man who got so angry about her feral cat rescues? Did she perhaps owe someone money? Alara's best friend's brother is a policeman, and he asks her to stay out of the case. As you can guess, she doesn't listen--she knows that some of her psychic talents can help.
December 27, 2022
Alara’s friend and coworker is murdered at work and with the help of her unwanted psychic powers and an Aunt who also shares psychic abilities, is determined to see justice served, even if things do get a little too dangerous. This was a fun start to a new series.
August 18, 2021
I loved this book. A very interesting vacation into mystery, murder, discovery, family, loyalty, and so much more. Our hero is just a normal young woman beginning life until one day a friend and coworker is murdered in the office. She soon learns she is not normal.
The murder sets our hero on a path of discovery with stubborn intent to find out who killed her friend. There are several twisting and turning sub plots along her path which help us relate to the characters and the plot. A dive into the supernatural world of dreams and psychic development enhances and ties the story together. As our hero travels the path to solving the murder she finds the path to contain much more from her past and her future.
I could see myself and pieces of my life as I read. The book is very easy to read and held my attention throughout. I finished and wanted more. This looks to be the first in a series; I anticipate the next installment.
I don't want to spoil the read so I will stop now but I highly recommend this book and look forward to more from this author.
The murder sets our hero on a path of discovery with stubborn intent to find out who killed her friend. There are several twisting and turning sub plots along her path which help us relate to the characters and the plot. A dive into the supernatural world of dreams and psychic development enhances and ties the story together. As our hero travels the path to solving the murder she finds the path to contain much more from her past and her future.
I could see myself and pieces of my life as I read. The book is very easy to read and held my attention throughout. I finished and wanted more. This looks to be the first in a series; I anticipate the next installment.
I don't want to spoil the read so I will stop now but I highly recommend this book and look forward to more from this author.
August 7, 2021
I can’t wait for the next book! I found the characters to be easily relatable and interesting. Once the story found its pace and the investigation was really going, I couldn’t put it down.
August 2, 2021
This is a fun paranormal cozy mystery.. I liked it.. It is unique and interesting, funny and clever..
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 4, 2025
An audiobook narrator can make or break a story. It broke this one. I really struggled to finish this.
August 5, 2021
The heroine Alara has always had psychic gifts, they ,manifest in different ways, from allowing her to communicate with her dogs to being able to relive "memory imprints" where if she enters an area of strong emotion (good or bad) she can become stuck in the memory, needing an outside stimuli to exit, as a result she has suppressed her powers as best she can. Her adopted parents have always believed Alara, and supported her, helping her as best they could. Though no one else knows about her gifts, she has not even shared with her friends Beau and Ori her best friends from childhood and high school (who are now married to each other)
The book starts with Alara going to work only to be told her boss Debbie has been murdered. She and her colleagues are devastated, Debbie was everybody's mother, the kind of person who does not seem to have an enemy in the world, so who could have killed her?
Alara is due to meet with a woman who claims to be her aunt from her birth family though she is hesitant as she has no idea how Irene would have tracked her down. After some bolstering from Ori , she goes to meet Irene.
When Irene shares that her birth family have psychic gifts, just like her, she knows for sure they are related. Irene has reached out as she wants to let Alara know about the physic abilities before they emerge as they don't start until adulthood, so she is shocked to discover Alara's emerged as a child. As they get to know each other Irene offers to help Alara control her gifts, which she hesitantly accepts.
But this turns into more as Alara finds herself using her gifts to investigate Debbie's murder
As Alara learns more about Debbie in both her personal and work life. She discovers there are more suspects and motives than she thought possible,.
There is plenty out with the mystery to keep the story flowing, Her friends, her dogs, her adopted mum giving her random pieces of advice on using her psychic power that she finds on the internet. these are quite funny. There is of course a hint of romance but this is not the main focus of the story, though I think that it will become more so over the series. The mystery is well thought out, there are clues and red herrings spattered all the way through but it does not feel forced.
The one thing I could have done without? Alara's mum has a strict no cursing rule and they make up silly phrases instead, Don't get me wrong I am not looking for vulgarity, and I think the author was going for humour but rather than sticking to one or two phrases there were to many and it became a bit jarring.
The book ends on a doozy of a cliff hanger and I look forward to reading what's to come.
The book starts with Alara going to work only to be told her boss Debbie has been murdered. She and her colleagues are devastated, Debbie was everybody's mother, the kind of person who does not seem to have an enemy in the world, so who could have killed her?
Alara is due to meet with a woman who claims to be her aunt from her birth family though she is hesitant as she has no idea how Irene would have tracked her down. After some bolstering from Ori , she goes to meet Irene.
When Irene shares that her birth family have psychic gifts, just like her, she knows for sure they are related. Irene has reached out as she wants to let Alara know about the physic abilities before they emerge as they don't start until adulthood, so she is shocked to discover Alara's emerged as a child. As they get to know each other Irene offers to help Alara control her gifts, which she hesitantly accepts.
But this turns into more as Alara finds herself using her gifts to investigate Debbie's murder
As Alara learns more about Debbie in both her personal and work life. She discovers there are more suspects and motives than she thought possible,.
There is plenty out with the mystery to keep the story flowing, Her friends, her dogs, her adopted mum giving her random pieces of advice on using her psychic power that she finds on the internet. these are quite funny. There is of course a hint of romance but this is not the main focus of the story, though I think that it will become more so over the series. The mystery is well thought out, there are clues and red herrings spattered all the way through but it does not feel forced.
The one thing I could have done without? Alara's mum has a strict no cursing rule and they make up silly phrases instead, Don't get me wrong I am not looking for vulgarity, and I think the author was going for humour but rather than sticking to one or two phrases there were to many and it became a bit jarring.
The book ends on a doozy of a cliff hanger and I look forward to reading what's to come.
January 19, 2022
Mediums and Murder is a fun start to the Prickly Pear Psychic Mystery series.
We first meet protagonist Alara Beatty as she's trying to leave for work and her two dogs, Blueberry and Pretzel, are getting into mischief and making her late. When she finally gets to work, there's chaos at the front door with emergency vehicles flashing their lights and Alara's coworkers standing in the parking lot. One of her coworkers and a close friend, Debbie, has been murdered in the office. Alara agrees to accompany the woman who found Debbie's body back into the office to collect her things. While there, she has a confusing vision of Debbie before her death. Alara has always known that she has psychic abilities, but now she will have to try to use those gifts to uncover the killer.
A couple of sub-plots run throughout the story, one romantic and one about family. Alara was adopted as an infant and now a biological aunt has shown up. Aunt Irene tells Alara her psychic abilities were inherited and offers to help her learn how to use them. It seemed a bit strange to me that Alara asked absolutely no questions about her biological family, but the ending of the book made it clear that we will be definitely learning more about them later. On the romance scene, Alara's best friend's younger brother is back in town and has joined the local police force. The romance throughout book one is very subtle, but I see it growing as the series goes on.
Mediums and Murder is a very short, light read. Fun. I enjoyed the main characters, the dogs were a hoot, and the mystery was fun to solve.
We first meet protagonist Alara Beatty as she's trying to leave for work and her two dogs, Blueberry and Pretzel, are getting into mischief and making her late. When she finally gets to work, there's chaos at the front door with emergency vehicles flashing their lights and Alara's coworkers standing in the parking lot. One of her coworkers and a close friend, Debbie, has been murdered in the office. Alara agrees to accompany the woman who found Debbie's body back into the office to collect her things. While there, she has a confusing vision of Debbie before her death. Alara has always known that she has psychic abilities, but now she will have to try to use those gifts to uncover the killer.
A couple of sub-plots run throughout the story, one romantic and one about family. Alara was adopted as an infant and now a biological aunt has shown up. Aunt Irene tells Alara her psychic abilities were inherited and offers to help her learn how to use them. It seemed a bit strange to me that Alara asked absolutely no questions about her biological family, but the ending of the book made it clear that we will be definitely learning more about them later. On the romance scene, Alara's best friend's younger brother is back in town and has joined the local police force. The romance throughout book one is very subtle, but I see it growing as the series goes on.
Mediums and Murder is a very short, light read. Fun. I enjoyed the main characters, the dogs were a hoot, and the mystery was fun to solve.
August 7, 2021
Who Killed Debbie ? . . .
Alara Beatty has always had psychic gifts but is wary of them and tries to keep them suppressed. She also has not told anyone of her abilities. Other than that, she enjoys a normal, if somewhat boring, life at her job as an accountant. At least until she shows up at work and finds her sweet boss Debbie has been murdered, found with a knife in her chest.
About this time, her birth family begins to make contact as her Aunt Irene arrives to tell her the family are psychics and Alara’s abilities would be showing up in adulthood. Irene was surprised to hear Alara’s abilities had manifested in her childhood. With Irene helping her with her gifts, Alara will use them to find Debbie’s murderer. Does she succeed? Can she catch the murderer without putting herself at risk?
I enjoyed this cozy mystery and look forward to the rest of the series. The characters were likable and their interactions promise much more going forward. It’s always fun trying to figure out the mystery as the main character works on the clues. But I decided to just sit back and let Alara turn on the psychic powers and do her thing. I definitely wouldn’t be much help to her with that.
Alara Beatty has always had psychic gifts but is wary of them and tries to keep them suppressed. She also has not told anyone of her abilities. Other than that, she enjoys a normal, if somewhat boring, life at her job as an accountant. At least until she shows up at work and finds her sweet boss Debbie has been murdered, found with a knife in her chest.
About this time, her birth family begins to make contact as her Aunt Irene arrives to tell her the family are psychics and Alara’s abilities would be showing up in adulthood. Irene was surprised to hear Alara’s abilities had manifested in her childhood. With Irene helping her with her gifts, Alara will use them to find Debbie’s murderer. Does she succeed? Can she catch the murderer without putting herself at risk?
I enjoyed this cozy mystery and look forward to the rest of the series. The characters were likable and their interactions promise much more going forward. It’s always fun trying to figure out the mystery as the main character works on the clues. But I decided to just sit back and let Alara turn on the psychic powers and do her thing. I definitely wouldn’t be much help to her with that.
August 2, 2021
Alara was lucky to have landed with parents and friends in a hometown that fed her heart. Her birth family remained a mystery- until now
Ori and Beau are her two best friends- and baby brother Rudi came back hot, honed, and more grown up. Alara finds a connection to him - and several warnings from Ori not to hurt the not so little guy with the big and fair minded heart
Aunt Irene appears, and is not necessarily welcome with her talk of their shared psychic skills
Her mom, Betty Beatty, always knew about her skills and seems to read amusing and obscure resources trying to help. Alara never talked about her skills with Ori - although Rudi seems to suspect
What happens with a dangerous situation at her office and with her extended family are ongoing adventures
I really enjoy the complex and conflicting connections
Fabulous dogs, gnome loving friends and intriguing cats make an enticing background for a series that I want to read more from
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ori and Beau are her two best friends- and baby brother Rudi came back hot, honed, and more grown up. Alara finds a connection to him - and several warnings from Ori not to hurt the not so little guy with the big and fair minded heart
Aunt Irene appears, and is not necessarily welcome with her talk of their shared psychic skills
Her mom, Betty Beatty, always knew about her skills and seems to read amusing and obscure resources trying to help. Alara never talked about her skills with Ori - although Rudi seems to suspect
What happens with a dangerous situation at her office and with her extended family are ongoing adventures
I really enjoy the complex and conflicting connections
Fabulous dogs, gnome loving friends and intriguing cats make an enticing background for a series that I want to read more from
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 15, 2025
Well that ending was quite a surprise!! Good start to the series.
July 19, 2026
Alara, a thirty-year-old accountant, has spent her whole life suppressing her psychic powers because they scared her. She just wanted a normal life with her two mischievous dogs, Blueberry and Pretzel. But normal soon goes out the window when she arrives at work to find police lights and her boss/friend, Debbie, has been murdered. When Alara steps into the crime scene to retrieve some of her belongings, her suppressed powers flare up, locking her into a vivid “memory imprint” (a psychic vision) of the moments right before Debbie died. Realizing her gifts might be the only way to catch the killer and for her to have closure, Alara decides it's time to stop hiding her powers. Right around the same time as the murder, Alara’s Aunt Irene tracks her down. Irene explains that psychic gifts are a family trait that usually manifests in adulthood, and she is shocked to find Alara has been dealing with them since childhood. Irene begins training Alara to control and make sense of her overwhelming visions. Despite the local detective warning her to leave the police work to the professionals, Alara dives into the case anyway. She attempts to use her newly trained psychic skills while suspicion, unanswered questions, and supernatural impressions begin piling up. By combining traditional sleuthing with her psychic imprints, can Alara unmask the killer before they can silence her?
What Made This Read So Spirit-Tacular:
Instead of the usual seaside village or snowy mountain retreat, this story whisked me away to the vibrant landscapes of the Southwest. Picture charming local shops and a community teeming with captivating characters. Alongside the central mystery, I found delightful friendships, unforgettable townsfolk, and a good dose of humor. Alara's journey is enriched by the growing trust and camaraderie with her newfound family, with just the right sprinkle of romance to add warmth without overshadowing the mystery. The supernatural elements blend seamlessly with the cozy mystery vibe, never feeling out of place. Alara is a protagonist who’s both easy to root for and relatable; her psychic abilities are a source of humor, suspense, and clever detective work. Her interactions with the people around her feel authentic, making her an engaging lead. Watching her juggle everyday life with her extraordinary abilities is a real treat. The supporting cast truly shines, each intriguing neighbor, skeptical investigator, and interesting friends and family add depth to the story. Their varied perspectives offer entertaining dialogue, a multitude of suspects, and a sense of a living, breathing community that makes me want to revisit again and again. The mystery's pacing is spot on, moving at an engaging clip that reveals clues steadily while keeping me guessing until the last page. Red herrings are cleverly placed, and each new revelation raises the stakes just enough. By the time I reached the satisfying resolution, I was already eager to follow Alara into her next adventure.
Overall, Mediums and Murder is a delightful blend of cozy mystery, supernatural intrigue, and Southwestern charm that casts a spell from the very first chapter. With an engaging amateur sleuth, an unforgettable cast of intriguing characters, and a mystery that will keep you guessing, this series debut delivers exactly what cozy mystery fans crave. Whether you believe in psychics or not, you'll absolutely believe in this wonderfully entertaining whodunit. Consider this your sign from the universe to start the Prickly Pear Psychic Mysteries!
What Made This Read So Spirit-Tacular:
Instead of the usual seaside village or snowy mountain retreat, this story whisked me away to the vibrant landscapes of the Southwest. Picture charming local shops and a community teeming with captivating characters. Alongside the central mystery, I found delightful friendships, unforgettable townsfolk, and a good dose of humor. Alara's journey is enriched by the growing trust and camaraderie with her newfound family, with just the right sprinkle of romance to add warmth without overshadowing the mystery. The supernatural elements blend seamlessly with the cozy mystery vibe, never feeling out of place. Alara is a protagonist who’s both easy to root for and relatable; her psychic abilities are a source of humor, suspense, and clever detective work. Her interactions with the people around her feel authentic, making her an engaging lead. Watching her juggle everyday life with her extraordinary abilities is a real treat. The supporting cast truly shines, each intriguing neighbor, skeptical investigator, and interesting friends and family add depth to the story. Their varied perspectives offer entertaining dialogue, a multitude of suspects, and a sense of a living, breathing community that makes me want to revisit again and again. The mystery's pacing is spot on, moving at an engaging clip that reveals clues steadily while keeping me guessing until the last page. Red herrings are cleverly placed, and each new revelation raises the stakes just enough. By the time I reached the satisfying resolution, I was already eager to follow Alara into her next adventure.
Overall, Mediums and Murder is a delightful blend of cozy mystery, supernatural intrigue, and Southwestern charm that casts a spell from the very first chapter. With an engaging amateur sleuth, an unforgettable cast of intriguing characters, and a mystery that will keep you guessing, this series debut delivers exactly what cozy mystery fans crave. Whether you believe in psychics or not, you'll absolutely believe in this wonderfully entertaining whodunit. Consider this your sign from the universe to start the Prickly Pear Psychic Mysteries!
December 28, 2024
I have been enjoying the Chatty Cat Mystery Series, by Elle Wren Burke, since the beginning. This is a spinoff series from the Prickly Pear Psychic Mystery series, which, until now, I had not read or listened to. When I was offered a free copy of the audiobook for the first in the series, Mediums and Murder, I did not pass up the opportunity to begin the series that started it all.
Prickly Pear is a small dessert town in Arizona, where Alara resides. She has psychic powers that she uses only when necessary. The need arises when her friend is found murdered, but can Alara keep her powers a secret so that the townspeople don't judge her? Fortunately, her long lost Aunt Irene shows up and reveals she possesses the same psychic powers, so she serves as a a mentor to Alara. While Alara learns more about her psychic powers and how to use them, she attempts to solve her friend's murder.
I really enjoyed getting to know Alara and all of the main characters in this book. The relationship that develops between Alara and her aunt is heart-warming. There is a hint of romance between Alara and another character that just may be a sign that something more will happen in future installments.
I don't typically read warm-weather books in the winter, but I have to say, the contrast was comforting. I have never been to Arizona, so I appreciated getting acquainted with the area through armchair traveling. It definitely made me want to visit Prickly Pear again.
The mystery was solid and I did not figure out who the culprit was until it was revealed. There were moments in the book when Alara was learning about her psychic powers, which took me out of the story a bit. This is always a challenge with a first in series, especially with world-building in a paranormal, so I certainly understand the need for it, however. I like that the reader gets acquainted with Alara's powers at the same time she does when her Aunt Irene is mentoring her.
I wasn't a fan of some of the language Alara used, but hopefully this will improve in future installments. At least one real-world serious issue is briefly touched upon in this book. Such a serious topic may not be everyone's cup of tea in a cozy, but it didn't overpower the story and it didn't bother me. In fact, it helps us get to know the characters better.
Since I'm a huge fan of the Chatty Cat Mystery series, the spinoff, I am curious to see how the Prickly Pear Psychic series unfolds. I will definitely be coming back for more. I enjoyed the narration by Vanessa Daniels, so I just may continue the series through audio if and when they're available in that format.
Thank you to author, Elle Wren Burke, for providing me with a free code for this audiobook. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Prickly Pear is a small dessert town in Arizona, where Alara resides. She has psychic powers that she uses only when necessary. The need arises when her friend is found murdered, but can Alara keep her powers a secret so that the townspeople don't judge her? Fortunately, her long lost Aunt Irene shows up and reveals she possesses the same psychic powers, so she serves as a a mentor to Alara. While Alara learns more about her psychic powers and how to use them, she attempts to solve her friend's murder.
I really enjoyed getting to know Alara and all of the main characters in this book. The relationship that develops between Alara and her aunt is heart-warming. There is a hint of romance between Alara and another character that just may be a sign that something more will happen in future installments.
I don't typically read warm-weather books in the winter, but I have to say, the contrast was comforting. I have never been to Arizona, so I appreciated getting acquainted with the area through armchair traveling. It definitely made me want to visit Prickly Pear again.
The mystery was solid and I did not figure out who the culprit was until it was revealed. There were moments in the book when Alara was learning about her psychic powers, which took me out of the story a bit. This is always a challenge with a first in series, especially with world-building in a paranormal, so I certainly understand the need for it, however. I like that the reader gets acquainted with Alara's powers at the same time she does when her Aunt Irene is mentoring her.
I wasn't a fan of some of the language Alara used, but hopefully this will improve in future installments. At least one real-world serious issue is briefly touched upon in this book. Such a serious topic may not be everyone's cup of tea in a cozy, but it didn't overpower the story and it didn't bother me. In fact, it helps us get to know the characters better.
Since I'm a huge fan of the Chatty Cat Mystery series, the spinoff, I am curious to see how the Prickly Pear Psychic series unfolds. I will definitely be coming back for more. I enjoyed the narration by Vanessa Daniels, so I just may continue the series through audio if and when they're available in that format.
Thank you to author, Elle Wren Burke, for providing me with a free code for this audiobook. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
September 21, 2021
Mediums and Murder was such a fun book to read! The main character, Alara Beatty, lives in the small town of Prickly Pear, Arizona and works as an accountant. When a co-worker is murdered, Alara at first feels helpless and wants to take action. Alara soon learns she has a knack for solving crimes, using both her intelligence, people skills, as well as her psychic abilities. Alara has always tried to deny she has psychic skills, but when she meets her biological aunt for the first time, Irene encourages Alara to use her special abilities to the fullest to help get justice for her friend.
I like Alara and I love Aunt Irene! They make a great duo when questioning witnesses and possible suspects and also when Irene is instructing Alara on how to make the most of her psychic gifts. I enjoyed the mystery, as well as the hint of a future romance for Alara and Rudi, an old friend who is now a police officer. Even though Rudi’s sister, whois also Alara’ best friend, has reservations, I think Alara and Rudi would make a great couple. I think the book has the best features of a traditional cozy, with the added touch of Alara having psychic abilities. Fans of Victoria Laurie or Trixie Silvertale would enjoy this debut book in the Prickly Pear Psychic Mystery series and I would rate it 4/4 1/2 stars. The case is resolved by the end of the book, but there is a definite cliffhanger in Alara’s personal life. I am really looking forward to reading future books to find out what happens next for Alara, her friends, and her family.
A copy of this book was provided to me by the author at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
I like Alara and I love Aunt Irene! They make a great duo when questioning witnesses and possible suspects and also when Irene is instructing Alara on how to make the most of her psychic gifts. I enjoyed the mystery, as well as the hint of a future romance for Alara and Rudi, an old friend who is now a police officer. Even though Rudi’s sister, whois also Alara’ best friend, has reservations, I think Alara and Rudi would make a great couple. I think the book has the best features of a traditional cozy, with the added touch of Alara having psychic abilities. Fans of Victoria Laurie or Trixie Silvertale would enjoy this debut book in the Prickly Pear Psychic Mystery series and I would rate it 4/4 1/2 stars. The case is resolved by the end of the book, but there is a definite cliffhanger in Alara’s personal life. I am really looking forward to reading future books to find out what happens next for Alara, her friends, and her family.
A copy of this book was provided to me by the author at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
February 14, 2022
It was ok - just ok. It dragged and then jumped and then dragged. And another book with the same plot premise...a woman with new powers trying to solve a murder, breaking the law to find clues and going around the police...all while attracted to one of the law enforcement officers.
Authors - find a new plot!
Amazon synopsis:
Alara Beatty leads a normal, boring life—even though she's psychic. Living in the small town of Prickly Pear in the Southwest, Alara is an accountant by day and a dog mom by night. Convinced her psychic abilities are too scary to handle, she pushes them down as much as possible. But when a close coworker turns up dead at Alara's workplace with a knife in her chest, Alara must decide whether to use her gifts to find the murderer.
Just in time, her new Aunt Irene has arrived in Prickly Pear to connect Alara with the biological family she has never known. Irene has brought a stunning revelation with her—Alara is not alone in her abilities. Her entire family is psychic, though it looks like Alara might be more powerful than them all.
Also back in town is Alara’s hunky old friend and police officer Rudi Rivera. Alara and Rudi have always had a fun, humorous relationship, but now that they’re both single, could something more be developing?
A lot is changing fast for Alara, but will she accept her aunt's help to tap into her powers as a medium to solve the murder? Or will Alara run from the family who abandoned her and the gifts they passed down to her?
Authors - find a new plot!
Amazon synopsis:
Alara Beatty leads a normal, boring life—even though she's psychic. Living in the small town of Prickly Pear in the Southwest, Alara is an accountant by day and a dog mom by night. Convinced her psychic abilities are too scary to handle, she pushes them down as much as possible. But when a close coworker turns up dead at Alara's workplace with a knife in her chest, Alara must decide whether to use her gifts to find the murderer.
Just in time, her new Aunt Irene has arrived in Prickly Pear to connect Alara with the biological family she has never known. Irene has brought a stunning revelation with her—Alara is not alone in her abilities. Her entire family is psychic, though it looks like Alara might be more powerful than them all.
Also back in town is Alara’s hunky old friend and police officer Rudi Rivera. Alara and Rudi have always had a fun, humorous relationship, but now that they’re both single, could something more be developing?
A lot is changing fast for Alara, but will she accept her aunt's help to tap into her powers as a medium to solve the murder? Or will Alara run from the family who abandoned her and the gifts they passed down to her?
December 19, 2022
Although murder is a horrible, horrible act, this was a delightful series starter.
We meet Ara, the psychic on the down low. Ori and Beau, her two best friends whom are married. A sexy character, Rudi who is Ori's brother and a Prickly Pear police officer. (I secretly hope he comes more to the forefront as the series progresses.) And a delightful biological aunt, Irene. That's the main cast of nice characters.
As for the suspects, that's not a short list, as Ara soon finds out. They are all so despicable in their own way so I won't go into details. For fear of giving spoilers. Let's just say your brain will get a workout on this one.
So as not to spoil anything I'm going to make this part short. Ara goes into work one morning only to find a dear friend and coworker was murdered. That same day, she had a meeting with her Aunt Irene. Irene decides to stay in town and help Ara develop her abilities better and help with her investigation. Which she wasn't supposed to be doing by the way. We do find out whodunit but Ara almost gets murdered in the process herself. It also ends on a major personal cliffhanger for Ara. And last but certainly not least, it has two adorably precious pup pups named Pretzel and Blueberry.
I recommend one clicking right now, it's worthy. I'm off to read book 2 now. I can't wait!
We meet Ara, the psychic on the down low. Ori and Beau, her two best friends whom are married. A sexy character, Rudi who is Ori's brother and a Prickly Pear police officer. (I secretly hope he comes more to the forefront as the series progresses.) And a delightful biological aunt, Irene. That's the main cast of nice characters.
As for the suspects, that's not a short list, as Ara soon finds out. They are all so despicable in their own way so I won't go into details. For fear of giving spoilers. Let's just say your brain will get a workout on this one.
So as not to spoil anything I'm going to make this part short. Ara goes into work one morning only to find a dear friend and coworker was murdered. That same day, she had a meeting with her Aunt Irene. Irene decides to stay in town and help Ara develop her abilities better and help with her investigation. Which she wasn't supposed to be doing by the way. We do find out whodunit but Ara almost gets murdered in the process herself. It also ends on a major personal cliffhanger for Ara. And last but certainly not least, it has two adorably precious pup pups named Pretzel and Blueberry.
I recommend one clicking right now, it's worthy. I'm off to read book 2 now. I can't wait!
November 30, 2021
Fantastic Debut Novel by Elle Wren Burke. I initially saw this book on Instagram, read the synopsis and immediately added it to my TBR. In a stroke of good fortune Elle was hosting a giveaway for the book during spooky season and I happened to be one of the winners (thank you again :) )
In Mediums & Murder we follow Alara Beatty in what initially seems to be a normal life in prickly pear with her two dogs pretzel and blueberry and her seemingly boring office job. In a twist of fate she arrives at work to find a coworker has been murdered.
The story progresses with found family, psychic sleuthing, and of course pretzel and blueberry (loved the dogs). The story line kept me engaged and the characters are easy to love. The story was easy to follow, I love that all aspects of the story remained throughout the whole book and not one thing was mentioned initially that was lost in the story or never mentioned again, very well rounded writing. I found myself laughing, smiling and not wanting to put the book down. The book ended well, highly recommend this read, it is a great paranormal cozy mystery!
In Mediums & Murder we follow Alara Beatty in what initially seems to be a normal life in prickly pear with her two dogs pretzel and blueberry and her seemingly boring office job. In a twist of fate she arrives at work to find a coworker has been murdered.
The story progresses with found family, psychic sleuthing, and of course pretzel and blueberry (loved the dogs). The story line kept me engaged and the characters are easy to love. The story was easy to follow, I love that all aspects of the story remained throughout the whole book and not one thing was mentioned initially that was lost in the story or never mentioned again, very well rounded writing. I found myself laughing, smiling and not wanting to put the book down. The book ended well, highly recommend this read, it is a great paranormal cozy mystery!
February 6, 2026
Alara has a happy life in Prickly Pear, Arizona. One of her dear friends is murdered at her work, and Alara has a psychic vision about it. Maybe she can solve the case, but she's scared of her own powers and no one else can know about them. Her long-lost aunt shows up to reconnect and helps Alara investigate with their psychic talents. Yet they can't see everything, and the killer is breathing down Alara's neck.
This is the first book in the cozy paranormal mystery series, Prickly Pear Psychic Mysteries. This definitely gives the warm fuzzies of a cozy story. Alara's dogs are adorable, and she volunteers at an animal shelter, so there are lots of opportunities for critter fun. Alara has a big heart and is scared of her own powers. She's mostly suppressed them her whole life, so opening herself up to them to investigate can get messy. Yet I like she's logical and not everything goes right. There is a slow simmer of a romance between Alara and her best friend's brother, Rudi, who is a police officer. He's the rock she needs in this time but she also can't tell him she's meddling in a case. A fun, light read.
This is the first book in the cozy paranormal mystery series, Prickly Pear Psychic Mysteries. This definitely gives the warm fuzzies of a cozy story. Alara's dogs are adorable, and she volunteers at an animal shelter, so there are lots of opportunities for critter fun. Alara has a big heart and is scared of her own powers. She's mostly suppressed them her whole life, so opening herself up to them to investigate can get messy. Yet I like she's logical and not everything goes right. There is a slow simmer of a romance between Alara and her best friend's brother, Rudi, who is a police officer. He's the rock she needs in this time but she also can't tell him she's meddling in a case. A fun, light read.
March 19, 2026
good
Living in a small town, Alara never dreamed that one of her co-workers would be murdered in her cubicle.
Alara has always known she was psychic, and with her newly discovered aunt in town to help, she decides to put them to use and try and find justice for her friend.
This is an enjoyable series starter, with a courageous (if not always thinking clearly) heroine, her two loveable dogs, her besties, her best friend’s brother, and her aunt. It’s set in the desert town of Prickly Pear, which gives it a little western flavour, and the psychic aspect of it is just now beginning.
Alara is an intriguing character, and so is her aunt Irene, and I am looking forward to seeing where he journey takes her next, as her family descends upon her. I’m kind of with the Rivera family in my hopes for her and Rudi, and will definitely be reading the next book in the series trusting that I see some of those hopes realised!
A thoroughly engaging paranormal cosy mystery, that fans of the genre will enjoy.
Living in a small town, Alara never dreamed that one of her co-workers would be murdered in her cubicle.
Alara has always known she was psychic, and with her newly discovered aunt in town to help, she decides to put them to use and try and find justice for her friend.
This is an enjoyable series starter, with a courageous (if not always thinking clearly) heroine, her two loveable dogs, her besties, her best friend’s brother, and her aunt. It’s set in the desert town of Prickly Pear, which gives it a little western flavour, and the psychic aspect of it is just now beginning.
Alara is an intriguing character, and so is her aunt Irene, and I am looking forward to seeing where he journey takes her next, as her family descends upon her. I’m kind of with the Rivera family in my hopes for her and Rudi, and will definitely be reading the next book in the series trusting that I see some of those hopes realised!
A thoroughly engaging paranormal cosy mystery, that fans of the genre will enjoy.
July 22, 2021
I'm glad that this book was my first introduction to the Cozy Murder Mystery genre, it was an amazing balance of fun and mystery that got me hooked.
Getting to know Alara and her two dogs (Pretzel and Blueberry) was a fun journey that I'm excited to continue.
No spoilers: the pacing is great, the characters are relatable, the dogs are adorable, and the location is painted perfectly. There were no low spots in the story, it kept me engaged, asking questions, and trying to figure out who the culprit(s) are/were. The mystery wasn't easy to solve on your own, in fact I got it wrong, but the necessary pieces of information are in the story for you to figure it out if that's the type of reader you are.
It's a great journey and I do recommend it, even if you're not a Cozy Murder Mystery kind of person. I wasn't but this has gotten me to explore that genre.
I did receive this book as an advanced copy for free.
Getting to know Alara and her two dogs (Pretzel and Blueberry) was a fun journey that I'm excited to continue.
No spoilers: the pacing is great, the characters are relatable, the dogs are adorable, and the location is painted perfectly. There were no low spots in the story, it kept me engaged, asking questions, and trying to figure out who the culprit(s) are/were. The mystery wasn't easy to solve on your own, in fact I got it wrong, but the necessary pieces of information are in the story for you to figure it out if that's the type of reader you are.
It's a great journey and I do recommend it, even if you're not a Cozy Murder Mystery kind of person. I wasn't but this has gotten me to explore that genre.
I did receive this book as an advanced copy for free.
September 8, 2023
“I looked back at Debbie and it really hit me that she was gone, and had left in a brutal way..”
Alara and Lupe, workers at DataDelivery find the body of a coworker when they come in one morning. Who did it, and WHY become the focus of most of the rest of the story
Alara was born psychic. Raised my adoptive parents, she was loved and supported when her gift appeared. Could she use it to find out who did it?
Throughout the story we meet her best friends: Ori and Beau, and Ori's brother Rudi has returned from Phoenix to Prickly Pear to work in the local police department. Together, the four of them plus Blueberry and Pretzel - Alara 's dogs, begin to unravel the death
And.... I forgot, Alara 's biological aunt has connected with her in the middle of this, and she helps Alara 's gift strengthen and grow.
So, whodunnit? And why? That's for me to know and you to find out. Highly Recommended 5/5
Alara and Lupe, workers at DataDelivery find the body of a coworker when they come in one morning. Who did it, and WHY become the focus of most of the rest of the story
Alara was born psychic. Raised my adoptive parents, she was loved and supported when her gift appeared. Could she use it to find out who did it?
Throughout the story we meet her best friends: Ori and Beau, and Ori's brother Rudi has returned from Phoenix to Prickly Pear to work in the local police department. Together, the four of them plus Blueberry and Pretzel - Alara 's dogs, begin to unravel the death
And.... I forgot, Alara 's biological aunt has connected with her in the middle of this, and she helps Alara 's gift strengthen and grow.
So, whodunnit? And why? That's for me to know and you to find out. Highly Recommended 5/5
August 4, 2022
Elle Wren Burke has written a charming and well grafted paranormal cozey mystery with mayhem and murder the characters are vibrant, definitely colorful and rather quirky that draw you in wanting to get to know them better while the mystery entices you even further with its challenge in who did it and why, because the poor victim appears to be the nicest person anyone would be proud to know. The plot is another thing completely different and captures your imagination completely keeping you enraptured beginning to its unexpected and climatic conclusion you can't help but keep turning page after page unable to put it down. I know I couldn't before finding out most all there was to know! I mean really it's that well written and consuming.!Acquire " Mediums and Murder " today for hours of intriguing entertainment. 😀😏 Kat
July 25, 2025
Psychics, Dogs, and Murder
Alara has spent her life hiding her psychic abilities, but when her biological aunt show up to teach her about her gifts, she has to figure out what to do with them. Maybe she can use them to help figure out who killed her friend Debbie. She does like being a pet whisperer - especially with her own two dogs - and they help her cope with the murder, her aunt, her adoptive parents, her new feelings for Rudi, a friend who is also a cop, and everything else going on in her life.
Alara goes on the hunt for the perp, putting her own life in jeopardy, but her friends and aunt and dogs get her through. And there is an interesting twist at the end that lets us know that there are more adventures ahead for her.
An interesting beginning to a paranormal cozy mystery.
Alara has spent her life hiding her psychic abilities, but when her biological aunt show up to teach her about her gifts, she has to figure out what to do with them. Maybe she can use them to help figure out who killed her friend Debbie. She does like being a pet whisperer - especially with her own two dogs - and they help her cope with the murder, her aunt, her adoptive parents, her new feelings for Rudi, a friend who is also a cop, and everything else going on in her life.
Alara goes on the hunt for the perp, putting her own life in jeopardy, but her friends and aunt and dogs get her through. And there is an interesting twist at the end that lets us know that there are more adventures ahead for her.
An interesting beginning to a paranormal cozy mystery.
November 21, 2021
Mediums and Murdeer introduces Alara and her aunt Irene to us and to themselves.
Alara did not know much about her birth parents, so she is surprised when she is contacted by her aunt, finding out that she is supposed to be a super strong psychic. She is psychic, but afraid of her gift, as she had no guidence until now.
When one of her friends get murdered she uses jher skills for the first time on purpose.
An interesting story, entertaining with a typical set of witchy-cozy-mystery- characters.
The book is kept in the cozy-tradition with a low-level suspense, but keeps it up towards the end, so it is fun to read and guess with the main characers who actually is the murderer.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Alara did not know much about her birth parents, so she is surprised when she is contacted by her aunt, finding out that she is supposed to be a super strong psychic. She is psychic, but afraid of her gift, as she had no guidence until now.
When one of her friends get murdered she uses jher skills for the first time on purpose.
An interesting story, entertaining with a typical set of witchy-cozy-mystery- characters.
The book is kept in the cozy-tradition with a low-level suspense, but keeps it up towards the end, so it is fun to read and guess with the main characers who actually is the murderer.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 4, 2022
Interesting take on finding out you have psychic powers
Adult adopted at young age finds out she is from bio- family with psychic powers, which explains certain episodes in her childhood. She uses these powers, with guidance from bio-aunt who just happens to show up, to solve murder of co-worker. I expected her to ask questions about her bio-family, but she doesn't. That seemed odd to me; however some explanations come in a twist at the end of the book. This is the first book in this series, so I will read the next to see how the characters grow. There are no needed warnings about sex or violence. No cliff-hanger either, although the twist at the end could be considered a teaser for book two. Altogether a satisfying intro to a series.
Adult adopted at young age finds out she is from bio- family with psychic powers, which explains certain episodes in her childhood. She uses these powers, with guidance from bio-aunt who just happens to show up, to solve murder of co-worker. I expected her to ask questions about her bio-family, but she doesn't. That seemed odd to me; however some explanations come in a twist at the end of the book. This is the first book in this series, so I will read the next to see how the characters grow. There are no needed warnings about sex or violence. No cliff-hanger either, although the twist at the end could be considered a teaser for book two. Altogether a satisfying intro to a series.
January 6, 2023
Psychic mystery
A very entertaining paranormal murder mystery story. Alara meets her Aunt Irene for the first time and learns she has psychic powers, as does the rest of her biological family. She was adopted and discovered her psychic abilities on her own, but never embraced them. Now her coworker and friend has been murdered and she wants to learn how to use her powers to find the culprit. With the help of her aunt to teach her how to develop her psychic powers, she starts her own investigation. I liked this whole story, the main characters and the animals. Easy reading and interesting. I did figure out the murderer before it was revealed but the storyline was still enjoyable.
A very entertaining paranormal murder mystery story. Alara meets her Aunt Irene for the first time and learns she has psychic powers, as does the rest of her biological family. She was adopted and discovered her psychic abilities on her own, but never embraced them. Now her coworker and friend has been murdered and she wants to learn how to use her powers to find the culprit. With the help of her aunt to teach her how to develop her psychic powers, she starts her own investigation. I liked this whole story, the main characters and the animals. Easy reading and interesting. I did figure out the murderer before it was revealed but the storyline was still enjoyable.
February 25, 2026
There is a murder - psychic powers are needed to solve it
Luckily, Alara is psychic, and her aunt just showed up to train her.
Person new to the supernatural world? Check. Law enforcement love interest? Check. Cute animals? Check, check, check.
If you like cozy mysteries, you might like this one more than I did. I'm more of a fantasy with romance fan. The only fantastic element here is the psychic stuff, which had a pretty small role in the plot. The romance is slow burn - they're old friends who are kind of attracted to each other in this book. No dating or kissing.
The murder felt obvious to me. The characters were ordinary. The small town has some cute features. Overall, it was good enough to finish, but I'm not very curious about the next book.
Luckily, Alara is psychic, and her aunt just showed up to train her.
Person new to the supernatural world? Check. Law enforcement love interest? Check. Cute animals? Check, check, check.
If you like cozy mysteries, you might like this one more than I did. I'm more of a fantasy with romance fan. The only fantastic element here is the psychic stuff, which had a pretty small role in the plot. The romance is slow burn - they're old friends who are kind of attracted to each other in this book. No dating or kissing.
The murder felt obvious to me. The characters were ordinary. The small town has some cute features. Overall, it was good enough to finish, but I'm not very curious about the next book.
November 29, 2022
Mediums and Murder Slays!
2022 was the year that I fell in love with cozy mysteries, and "mediums and murder" is one of the best! Elle Wren Burke is a very skilled storyteller, deftly weaving mystery and comedy with likable characters and a very polished writing style.
There's also a slow burn, romantic tension relationship going on here that I look forward to seeing smolder for quite a few episodes of this series! ;-)
If you find yourself looking for something to read on a cold Winter's night, curl up next to the fire with a cup of hot chocolate and "mediums and murder"... it will be a night well spent!
2022 was the year that I fell in love with cozy mysteries, and "mediums and murder" is one of the best! Elle Wren Burke is a very skilled storyteller, deftly weaving mystery and comedy with likable characters and a very polished writing style.
There's also a slow burn, romantic tension relationship going on here that I look forward to seeing smolder for quite a few episodes of this series! ;-)
If you find yourself looking for something to read on a cold Winter's night, curl up next to the fire with a cup of hot chocolate and "mediums and murder"... it will be a night well spent!
October 26, 2026
Mediums & Murder sounds like a delightful paranormal cozy mystery with a winning combination of supernatural intrigue, humor, and small-town charm. Alara’s struggle to deal with her unpredictable psychic abilities while investigating her friend’s murder promises plenty of entertaining twists. I especially like the idea of a reluctant sleuth whose canine companions, quirky family, and unexpected romantic possibilities add personality to the mystery. The sunny Arizona setting also gives the story a distinctive atmosphere. This looks like a fun choice for readers who enjoy amateur detectives, psychic mysteries, humorous storytelling, and charming characters caught up in puzzling crimes.
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