Skeptic in Salem: An Episode of Crime (A Dubious Witch Cozy Mystery—Book 2)

Fiona Grace

Feb 2021 · A Dubious Witch Cozy Mystery Book 2 · Fiona Grace

About this ebook

"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 CRIME is Book #2 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—and from her long-time boyfriend, who breaks up with her.

 

With the podcast taking off, and with a romance brewing, Mia and the crew film the first episode of their new TV show, in the haunted house of one of the original Salem witches. Mia’s working hard to debunk the unexplained happenings—when suddenly, someone dies unexpectedly.

 

Even worse—the suspicion falls on her.

 

With her future at stake and her career and reputation on the line, Mia has no choice but to solve the inexplicable death. Could the cause be supernatural?

 

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.”

--Amazon reviewer (regarding Murder in the Manor)

 

Book #3 in the series—AN EPISODE OF DEATH—is now also available!

Ratings and reviews

When Mia Bold was disillusioned by the greedy pharmaceutical company she worked for, she left and moved to Salem. Her job now involved making podcasts and assuming a role as the skeptic regarding the supernatural saturation existing in Salem. Ollie Cooper, one of the producers, sent a computer reminder that they were filming for the first time and would meet at The House of the Sea Witch, the location for the initial episode. Mia was co-hosting and was nervous. This was the haunted house of one of the original Salem witches. Witnesses reported cold spots, objects that moved on their own, and a mysterious figure who appeared in the master bedroom. The owner, Alice Parker, was one of the last women condemned at the Salem witch trials and hanged on September 22, 1692. Mia’s intention was to prove the haunting was nonsense and would run tests to check for strong electromagnetic activity or anything to logically account for physical disturbances. Mia and her friend, Sylvie -- sound engineer for the podcast, film editor, and neighbor -- went to Café Noir for breakfast. Mia saw the owner, Hugh Wolfe, and blushed as he greeted her warmly. An odd group of people sat at a table and were staring at her. She was sure they said she was the one trying to destroy Salem, and they didn’t need her kind. Then they got up and left. Mia was about to invite Hugh to dinner when the show’s host, Johnny Astor called her name and approached them. They all sat at a table and Hugh brought over cappuccinos with a heart on top of Mia’s. Finally the crew gathered to begin the interviews and filming at The House of the Sea Witch. The interviews went well, Mia actually relaxing as she concentrated on the discussions and asked questions. On the ghost hunt portion, the halls were darkened as if at night, reminding Mia of telling scary stories by a campfire. Mia’s working hard to debunk the unexplained happenings, yet their meter equipment was registering heavy activity in spots. Johnny pulled out the ghost box, which allegedly let spirits speak. And to their surprise, a female voice joined the static and clearly said, “Beware! Death comes.” The EMF readings went high as a dark shadow moved across the room and, when it passed right through Johnny’s body, he gasped and doubled over, telling her he felt sick. Mia tried explaining infrasound can affect the meters that way and can also make you feel sick. But Tandy, Mia’s dog, had raced up the stairs and stood in front of Mia and Johnny, growling at something. They went downstairs to film the wrap-up. Johnny commented he had felt a presence, but Mia wanted to steer the investigation back to FACTS and away from FEELINGS. When Johnny suggested Alice Parker may have been a real witch and opened a plane to the other side, it was time to speak up and teach them a lesson. Her research had revealed that at the time of the witch trials, the weather conditions created a fungus infesting the rye crop, and it caused hallucinogenic effects. This ergot outbreak was nothing but food poisoning affecting people’s minds. A mass hallucination and not an actual supernatural element. The owner gave them an extra evening at the house to re-film the final wrap-up which everyone except Professor Brumley and Mia felt veered away from their reason for this investigation. When everyone left, Professor Brumley chased after Mia to tell her he found proof of what she had been saying but he would show it to her later. Instead, Mia found his cold, dead body crumpled at the bottom of the haunted stairs in The House of the Sea Witch. She called 9-1-1, never figuring the police would look with suspicion at her! Her future, career, and reputation would be destroyed unless she can solve the inexplicable death. But was she ready to admit that the cause might actually be supernatural?

What an exhilarating ride. From start to finish Fiona Grace draws you into a well spun tale. Mia is a scientist and a septic she's moved to Salem to work on a podcast, about ghosts But Mia is there as the voice of reason to co-host Johnny's utter belief. After the first podcast was a winner (Perhaps not for the reasons they intended) they need to follow up with a FILMED version. Mia is nervous but gets on with what she is there to do- debunk the claims of the supernatural. When a guest is found dead by Mia and all leads point to her, not to mention the a strange group is following her around and not in a can i get your autograph kind of way, death threats, journalists and an overbearing family. Not to mention the new detective seems to really have it in for her? What's a girl to do? Follow the clues, obviously! A very well written book with an exceptionally good plot. This series is a must, highly entertaining with very believable characters and there it's such an interesting undertone that you know there is so much more to come from these characters and ultimately this author. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Mia seems to have developed a following, and not in a good way. A group of so called protectors has decided she is a threat to Salem and its reputation. Do all its members really have the good of the community at heart? Johnny Astor is a flamboyant co-host and the paranormal series with Mia. Is he after his own success, bringing her down, or taking Mia out on a date? Throw in some more neutral responses by Mia about debunking the paranormal, a sexy Cafe Noir proprietor and some wacky folks of a variety of descriptions with dubious or lethal intent- it all adds up to a great read that leaves you looking forward to what happens next! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

About the author

Debut author Fiona Grace is author of the LACEY DOYLE COZY MYSTERY series which includes MURDER IN THE MANOR (Book #1), DEATH AND A DOG (Book #2), CRIME IN THE CAFE (Book #3), VEXED ON A VISIT (Book #4), and KILLED WITH A KISS (Book #5). Fiona is also the author of the TUSCAN VINEYARD COZY MYSTERY series.

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.