Death Scene by Carol J. Perry

Death Scene

Book Summary

It takes a lot for Salem locals to get excited about their historic Massachusetts town being known as “the witch city.” But when a major studio arrives to shoot a witchcraft-themed movie, folks go Hollywood. For WICH-TV’S program director and chief documentary-maker, Lee Barrett, however, the project may come complete with a real-life death scene . . .

Between documenting the progress of the movie, corralling starstruck autograph seekers and fans, and managing unmanageable traffic on Salem’s narrow streets, Lee and her police detective husband, Pete Mondello, are beyond busy. Even Lee’s best friend, River North, tarot card reader and practicing witch, gets in on the action, landing a job as a stand-in and body double. But it only takes one interview for Lee to realize that the male and female leads—whose roles include torrid love scenes—despise each other. Yet the problem is short-lived, literally . . .

When the gorgeous lead actress is found dead on a set staged to replicate the room where suspected witches were tried in 1692—and her on-screen lover, in full costume, is discovered sound asleep in her trailer—the hunt is on for a killer on the loose. Nevertheless, the producer decrees “the show must go on!” Now, even with help from River, Lee’s Aunt Ibby, and O’Ryan, a remarkably clairvoyant gentleman cat, sorting out a witch’s brew of secrets, sorcery, and special effects might turn Lee’s documentary into her own final act . . .

My Thoughts

Death Scene by Carol J. Perry is the fourteenth A Witch City Mystery.  It can be read as a standalone for those new to the series as there is a recap in the first chapter. I enjoyed visiting Lee in Salem, Massachusetts in late October (Halloween is my favorite holiday).  I am glad, though, that I did not have to deal with the traffic.  Lee is a strong, likeable protagonist with a special talent.  I always enjoy Lee’s visits with Aunt Ibby (Aunt Ibby is smart and resourceful plus she is supportive of Lee).  My favorite character is O’Ryan.  I like how he goes back and forth between two abodes (Aunt Ibby’s and Lee’s) since Lee and Pete acquired their row house.  I grew up in a home very similar to Lee and Pete’s (two brick row homes that share a wall—an early version of a duplex).  

I liked the author incorporated Salem history, historical events, and myths.   The whodunit is one that I was able to solve early in the book. I did not know why this person committed the crime, though, and I had to know.  I like how Lee’s gift played into the mystery as well as River’s readings.  The ending will have fans of the series smiling.  Death Scene transports readers to Salem for movie madness, troubling traffic, a murdered actor, revealing cards, a protective cat, and a Happy Halloween.

Death Scene can be obtained from Amazon* along with the other novels in A Witch City Mysteries.  If you follow Carol J. Perry on Amazon, they will send you an email when she has a new book release.  I enjoy reading Halloween cozy mysteries.  Halloween is my favorite holiday.  I look forward to decorating my front yard each year with a new theme. I was torn between two ideas this year.  I was leaning towards spiders, of all sizes, climbing down lighted webs and crawling across the yard towards the witches who are working on a spell.  Then I remembered the grandkids of the residents in our community.  I decided the witches are throwing a monster of a party (a Monster Mash). 

Two of the party guests! One has trouble holding onto his head!

I have been having fun tracking down some unusual creatures to attend the bash.  Music will be playing as well (the Monster Mash, of course).  I know it is August, but the first of October will be here before you know it.  Thank you for popping by today.  Tomorrow I am sharing my thoughts on Pumpkin Spice Puppy by Laurien Berenson.  It is the 30th A Melanie Travis Canine Mystery.  I hope that you have an enchanting day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

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