Skeptic in Salem: An Episode of Murder (A Dubious Witch Cozy Mystery—Book 1)

Fiona Grace

Nov 2020 · A Dubious Witch Cozy Mystery Book 1 · Fiona Grace

About this audiobook

"Very entertaining. Highly recommended for the permanent library of any reader who appreciates a well-written mystery with twists and an intelligent plot. You will not be disappointed. Excellent way to spend a cold weekend!"

--Books and Movie Reviews (regarding Murder in the Manor)

 

SKEPTIC IN SALEM: AN EPISODE OF MURDER is the debut novel in a charming new cozy mystery series by bestselling author Fiona Grace, author of Murder in the Manor, a #1 Bestseller with over 100 five-star reviews (and a free download)!

When Mia Bold, 30, learns that the pharmaceutical company she works for only cares about money, she quits on the spot, walking away from a high-powered career. Worse, her long-time boyfriend, instead of proposing as she expected, decides to break up with her.

Mia’s true passion lies in her own podcast, devoted to debunking the occult and shining light on the truth. The daughter of a con-man father, Mia feels a moral responsibility to the truth, and to spare others from being conned.

When Mia, at a crossroads, receives an invitation from a famous supernatural podcast inviting her to move to Salem and join their podcast as the skeptic-in-residence, Mia sees a chance to start her life over again and to pursue her life’s mission.

But things in Salem do not go as planned. When an unexpected death happens—in the midst of Mia trying to debunk a haunted inn—she realizes she may be in over her head. With her own future now at stake, can she really prove that witches and ghosts do not exist?

A mesmerizing page-turner, packed with intrigue, mystery, romance, pets, food—and most of all, the supernatural—SKEPTIC IN SALEM is a cozy with a twist, one you will cherish as it has you fall in love with its main character and as it keeps you glued (and laughing) throughout the night.

“The book had heart and the entire story worked together seamlessly that didn't sacrifice either intrigue or personality. I loved the characters - so many great characters! I can't wait to read whatever Fiona Grace writes next!”

--Amazon reviewer (regarding Murder in the Manor)

“Wow, this book takes off & never stops! I couldn't put it down! Highly recommended for those who love a great mystery with twists, turns, romance, and a long lost family member! I am reading the next book right now!”

--Amazon reviewer (regarding Murder in the Manor)

“This book is rather fast paced. It has the right blend of characters, place, and emotions. It was hard to put down and I hope to read the next book in the series.”

Ratings and reviews

Skeptic in Salem by Fiona Grace is a light and engaging cozy mystery. Mia Bold a part-time debunker of paranormal events, finds herself without a job while her Fiancé reveals that he is a self-centered hypocrite. In defiance of her family, she moves to Salem when offered a job as a podcast host for a new paranormal show. As she settles into her new life she meets antagonistic influencers and uncovers some dark secrets. When the recording of the first podcast is followed by a murder, Mia finds herself as the prime suspect. Mia must face the challenge and use her sleuthing talents to find out what happened the night of the murder and who might be responsible. Will she uncover the truth in time... I gave it a three stars because of the "he said" "she said" lines. I appreciate how dedicated an author is to write and publish a book. I felt the author could have added more variety by using other words than said when someone spoke.

I initially gave this book one star, this is due to the mystery portion of this book not starting till 30% in and the MC being a pick me "not like other girls" girl. these issues remained for the duration of the book, I have however added two more stars solely due to the mystery itself being engaging once it begins. I wish the author would do some introspection on the way every conflict the MC has with another woman is somehow related to a man. Every woman who isn't the mc or on her side unquestioningly is described as shallow and vapid and obviously not worth the time of day whereas every man with issues is given a degree of sympathy and leeway. The MC also at no point ever has to own up to being wrong or apologize for being insufferable and argumentative with everyone who even slightly disagrees with her. She's condescending and seems to think she's always right.

I tried extremely hard to make it through the whole book, I just couldn't do it. The storyline had potential, and the characters were cute, but the narrator's voice and the fact that the author desperately needed to use a thesaurus and find one of the multitude of words to replace "said", made the story unbearable.

About the author

Debut author Fiona Grace is author of the LACEY DOYLE COZY MYSTERY series, comprising nine books (and counting); of the TUSCAN VINEYARD COZY MYSTERY series, comprising three books (and counting); of the DUBIOUS WITCH COZY MYSTERY series, comprising three books (and counting); and of the BEACHFRONT BAKERY COZY MYSTERY series, comprising three books (and counting).

Fiona would love to hear from you, so please visit www.fionagraceauthor.com to receive free ebooks, hear the latest news, and stay in touch.