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Death by Haunted House
Death by Haunted House
Lee Hollis | 2022 | Mystery
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
A Haunted Flashback
This novella flashes back ten years to 2009 and a time when series protagonist Hayley Powell was still married. A new family has moved to town and moved in next door to Hayley and her young family into a long-abandoned house that is rumored to be haunted. When they move in, they are unfriendly and obviously keeping secrets, and Hayley’s husband, Danny, is certain that they are hiding something. When a dead body turns up in the woods behind their neighborhood, Danny is certain they are involved. Is he right?

I found the story here very entertaining, although I did guess a couple plot points early. Still, the solution to the mystery was a surprise, and I had to laugh at some of the events along the way. On the other hand, I found Danny extremely selfish and annoying, and Hayley does something extremely stupid, with is ironic since she complains about Danny’s behavior at times.

NOTE: This story is a novella, roughly 100 pages, and was originally part of the novella collection Haunted House Murder. If you have that book, there is no need to buy this ebook. If you haven’t read the story, now is the time to sit back and enjoy this Halloween trip to Maine.
  
Orbit: A Lunar Wolves Novella
Orbit: A Lunar Wolves Novella
Kiki Burrelli | 2023 | LGBTQ+, Paranormal, Romance
6
7.0 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
ORBIT is a Lunar Wolves Novella - it says so in the title. It is also the first book I have read in this series or by the author. I was told I wouldn't need to read the series to enjoy this book but I'm afraid I think that was wrong.

This is a short novella and, for me, you really didn't learn anything about the world or the characters so having some knowledge would have been helpful. Callum and Vaughan were a cute couple but also a paradox. On the one hand, they communicated nicely. Callum, in particular, helped Vaughan with his social anxiety. But then, on the other, neither of them talks when there's a problem, which I found odd, especially when it could be linked to said social anxiety.

The ending is quite abrupt. I'm guessing we will see more of them in future books but, as a novella, it's more of a meet-cute and not much more.

A good read but I would definitely recommend reading the series.

** 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!
Jul 4, 2023
  
Sheer Window
Sheer Window
Diane Vallere | 2024 | Mystery
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Poly Would Be Thankful to Learn What Is Happening Across the Street
This Thanksgiving, Poly Monroe is hosting a few friends for the day in the apartment over her fabric store. When she learns that someone has moved into the apartment over the bar across the street, she decides to invite them to join the festivities. However, not only does she not get a response when she goes over there, but she manages to twist her ankle. Now injured in her apartment, she finds herself watching what is happening across the street. She thinks something strange is going on. Is she right? Can she get anyone to believe her?

This is a fun novella to get us in the Thanksgiving mood. Obviously, it is a loving homage to Rear Window, and the story really leans into that with several references and nods to the film. The story is strong and pulled me in. It’s also the perfect length for this novella. We still get to see quite a few of the series regulars, which I enjoyed as well. Since it’s a novella, it will be easier to slip this into a busy holiday season. And when you pick it up, you’ll find it is sheer delight.