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About the Book
One murder. Four impossibilities. A fake séance hides a very real crime.
Secret Staircase Construction just finished their first project with Tempest Raj officially a part of the team—a classic mystery novel-themed home interior. Their client is now ready to celebrate her new life without her cheating ex-husband, famous mystery author Corbin Colt. First up, a party, and Tempest and Grandpa Ash are invited to the exclusive mock séance to remove any trace of Corbin from the property—for good. It’s all lighthearted fun until Corbin’s dead body crashes the party.
The only possible suspects are the eight people around the séance table—a circle of clasped hands that wasn’t broken. Suspicion quickly falls on Grandpa Ash, the only one with actual blood on him. To prove her beloved grandfather’s innocence, Tempest must figure out what really happened—and how—or Ash will be cooking his delectable Indian and Scottish creations nevermore.
My Review
I just love the way Gigi Pandian tells a story. She has such a fantastic grasp of the magical. When you pair that with interesting and unusual characters who are well developed and fully round individuals, plots that are comfortably recognizable with elements of classic mystery artfully blended with wholly original twists and turns, and a sense of pacing that is spot-on for keeping the reader engaged by balancing backstory with forward momentum, the result is absolutely delightful.
The second in series was every bit as wonderful as the first. I must confess I did not remember a lot of the details from the first book, as I absolutely inhaled it when I first read it. She did a fantastic job providing just enough relevant material to trigger my memories though, and that is no small task.
This is a fantastic series and I really love these characters – from The Tempest to Sanjay to her absolutely magnificent grandparents. There is a slowly developing plot line that I find fascinating and that pairs beautifully with the mystery she brings to each new novel. I cannot wait to see where things go next!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my obligation-free review copy.
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