Gaele Hi
AudioBook Review: Stars: Overall 4 Narration 5 Story 4 The second in the series builds on relationships and connections found in the first, and while you could read this installment first, I’d suggest taking these in series order: relationships and interactions will feel more natural and organic, even if you don’t have to search for backstory. In this episode, Holly is still working as a barista and adjusting to her life in the manor, while using her curiosity and ‘special’ talents to investigate and meddle. She’s settling in, and while work is taking up more time away from her newly minted relationship with Adam the werewolf, things seem to be looking up. Oops! Spoke too soon – a new resident has appeared, Evangeline, another witch and a popular paranormal soap star, has appeared on the scene. If that’s not enough to keep her wondering, and perhaps a bit worried, a newly minted ghost appears, asking for help. Things are further complicated as the ghost is related to a co-worker, and while Holly has the ghostly end of the mystery, Nick, the town’s PI is investigating this murder – whether or not he’s interested (or even aware) of Holly’s magical interference and conclusions. Garrett has mixed together a pile of goodies in this story: a new romance, another challenger for affections, a bit of tension and back and forth with Nick, a personal crossroads as Holly struggles with her own career options: Barista or potion-selling witch, and plenty of atmosphere in the small coastal town, the manor house and even the locals. We get some of the backstory on Holly that explains her presence in the halfway house, and the twists, turns and even magical potion elements are fuel for both background and current mystery. Twists, turns and surprises abound, making the final reveal one that surprises (mostly) but delights (completely). Narration is again provided by Amanda Ronconi – and if you’ve not experienced her work, particularly with characters that arrive with a little bit of ‘extra’ or paranormal influence – you are missing out. She’s perfectly captured Holly – giving her a solid sense of engagement even in her ‘self-doubt’ moments, while never losing what feels like her essence. Other characters are presented with distinct tones, delivery styles and pacing, where engagement between characters, quirky nuances and inflections keep the narration solidly intriguing and full of interest for the listen. As a pair, the narration and story work beautifully well together, never competing for ‘more’ attention, and presenting the story with a flair that helps to engage and delight. A solid second story in the series, perfectly setting the tone for the continuing tales from Beechwood Harbor. I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Tantor Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.