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Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2570 KP) rated The Zombie Ball in Books

Sep 4, 2019  
The Zombie Ball
The Zombie Ball
John Gaspard | 2019 | Mystery
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
You’ll Have a Ball
Magician Eli Marks has been hired at the last minute to perform as the opening act at the Zombie Ball, an annual local fundraiser, when the originally scheduled magician backs out. He hasn’t been going out much since his divorce, but he needs the money, so he agrees to do the gig that night. Of course, Eli quickly sees tensions going on behind the scenes, including two competing top donors who everyone is handling with kid gloves and trying to keep away from each other. Then someone is murdered, and Eli finds himself involved with the case. Will he figure out what really happened?

While this is the sixth book in the series, it is mostly set in the past, with events taking place before book 1. While I missed seeing some of the series regulars and getting some updates on ongoing storylines, I was quickly caught up in the story, and I enjoyed seeing a different side of the few regulars we did see. The body isn’t found until later in the book than normal, but I was enjoying spending time with Eli and getting to know the suspects. Sure enough, things that happened and we learned came into play once the murder has been discovered, and I was impressed with how Eli pieced everything together. The story hinges on the suspects being strong, and fortunately, they are. This story is shorter than many of the books I read, but it was long enough to tell the story, and it was nice to breeze through a book quickly. While we don’t learn any of the secrets of magic, I still enjoy the behind the scenes glimpses we do get of the life of a magician. Whether a new or returning fan, you’ll be glad you picked up this book.
  
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Merissa (14009 KP) rated Spring Melt in Books

Feb 11, 2026  
Spring Melt
Spring Melt
Lori Duffy Foster | 2026 | Crime, Romance
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
SPRING MELT is a standalone historical crime story that tells you about Ella and the horrific act forced upon her at 9-years-old. Nineteen years later, three men are being held accountable for the murder of her r@pist. Was it really planned, or did fate play a part?

This was an amazing story that drew me in and kept my attention from the very first chapter. Normally, I wouldn't say anything about being happy with a divorce/separation in the first few pages, but this one I celebrated! Not only that, but I was with Ella every step of the way as she found herself and the peace needed to move on with her life.

The glimpse into the 1920s social system, the job of a lumberjack, plus how if you had money, you could even buy a Not Guilty verdict (if it even got that far!) was so incredibly written, I was completely engrossed.

Ella is surrounded by an amazing supporting cast of characters, including but not limited to the wonderful Will. Hooper, although not around too much, was also a firm favourite. I thoroughly enjoyed the scenes with Maddox, as he made me question what was right and wrong, both morally and legally. The epilogue at the end made my eyes leak in the best way.

Told from multiple perspectives, this was outstanding in every way. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book, and although I have no personal knowledge of the Adirondacks, I can honestly say I feel as though I've now been there.

** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 11, 2026