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“Ghosts, Lies and Alibis” by DeAnna Drake ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“Ghosts, Lies and Alibis,” the second book in DeAnna Drake’s “Laguna Bay Midlife Witch Cozy Mystery” series, proves this is a series going from strength to strength. The magic is most definitely getting stronger.

When Boo discovers the body of a reporter behind her Halloween shop, she’s plunged into a mystery tangled with long-buried secrets from a devastating fire. Juggling this investigation is no small feat. She’s also working to keep the town’s supernatural side hidden along with the rest of the supernatural inhabitants, and is supporting Merle’s campaign for mayor, and relying on her sister Delphine to help commune with the victim’s unsettled ghost. Thankfully, her immortal and ever-sassy feline familiar, Kheppy, is always finding new ways to lend a paw.

DeAnna Drake crafts a totally immersive story with a well-formulated plot and deeply relatable characters. I’m becoming more and more invested in Boo’s world, and I particularly loved the vibrant mix of personalities, including Merle’s ghostly friend Rupert to the vampire editor Cornelia and her human sidekick Zelda. Drake writes sinister and paranormal events with a masterful touch of humour that balances the suspense perfectly.

Of course, Kheppy remains a favourite. Watching this immortal cat learn new skills while maintaining her iconic sass is an absolute delight.

This investigation pushes Boo to her limits, and the implications at the end of the story suggest the future won’t be easy. But with storytelling this engaging, I am unequivocally on board for the ride. This series is a must-read for cozy mystery and paranormal fans alike. #arcreview #mustread #paranormalcozymystery #freshlemon8