Review - Phantoms & Felonies

I reviewed the first in this new series, Haunted Homicide (click here).  Now it is time for the second book in the series from Berkley.  I don't think this series is getting much publicity or push from Berkley, which is a shame because I find it delightful.  Continue to find out more about the second book in this new series.

Author: Lucy Ness

Copyright: April 2021 (Berkley) 284 pgs

Series: 2nd in Haunted Mansion Mystery series

Sensuality: n/a

Mystery Sub-genre: Amateur Sleuth, Light Paranormal Cozy

Main Characters: Avery Morgan, New manager of a prestigious women's club 

Setting: Contemporary, Portage Path, Ohio, thirty miles south of Cleveland

Obtained Through: Netgalley for honest review

Blurb Blurb: "When a local theater troupe puts on a new play at the club, manager Avery Morgan is excited. This is just the sort of event that's destined to bring in potential new members. Okay, millionaire banker Bob Hanover has more bucks than talent and has used his position to grab the lead role, but that seems like a small price to pay...until Bob is found dead backstage.

Bob rubbed many people the wrong way, but would anyone want him dead? The short answer to that is: Who wouldn't want him dead? His long-suffereing wife had to put up with years of womanizing. The show's playwright has been tricked out of his one great idea by Bob, who claimed it as his own work. And Bob bankrupted one of the town's small businessmen. The choices are many and the time to find the killer is running short.

Avery is working overtime to keep the club open and find the killer. Fortunately, she has help with the latter task. Clemmie Bow was once a singer in the speakeasy in the club's basement. Now she's a ghost who's also a top-notch detective. Together Clemmie and Avery will find the killer—even if it kills one of them."

My Thoughts:  Avery Morgan may have accepted she can talk to Clemie, but she isn't ready to let anybody-least of all her psychic aunt-know of her ability.  But she may not have any choice.

Clemie Bow, resident ghost from roaring 20s, gets more page time in this book and I love her. Sergeant Alterman, known as Oz, is a romantic interest in this slow burn romance.  I like how this is gradually developing.  Avery's psychic Aunt Rosemary makes a surprise visit and her character is fun and sweet.  I am enjoying these characters.  The historic manner house is a great setting for these mysteries and shines again.  In addition to the characters, the mystery is solid with plenty of suspects and motives to sift through and a gripping killer reveal make this a favorite cozy with a fun paranormal touch.  

Rating:  Excellent - Loved it! Buy it now and put this author on your watch list