If you are in the mood for a light read that goes quickly, look no further than A Medium’s Birthday Surprise by Chariss K. Walker. It is a charming cozy mystery with a paranormal twist.
The main character, Becky, is a medium that lives in the small town of Asheville. As a medium, she assists the spirits of the departed who need a little help in moving onto the next life. She truly enjoys being helpful to them. However, her siblings do not feel the same as she does. They refuse to recognize that they also possess the same ability, inherited from their mother, and thus avoid her at times.
No one is avoiding Becky on her 26th birthday, this includes Josh’s, her boyfriend from high school, ghost shows up. He went missing 10 years ago to the day and no one ever found out what happened. You can imagine what a shock this all is to Becky. She feels she must do whatever is necessary to help Josh move on. However, to do this she will have to figure out how he died.
I enjoyed this innovative take on a cozy mystery. I know there are other cozies out there that are similar, but this one is just done really well. The author didn’t haphazardly add the paranormal elements. The elements were well thought out and added a little something extra. In addition, I felt they helped moved the plot along. Also, the author did not leave any cliffhangers. Yet, there are a lot of places Becky’s story can go from here. For Example, I hope in future books she will help her siblings with their gifts.
I also liked Becky’s character a lot. It suited the story nicely and the author did a good job with the character development. I would have liked just a little more development on Becky’s siblings. I think this may have been intention since it leaves some things for future books.
I also want to mention that I live is Asheville and have for over 40 years. Therefore, a person can’t just write nonsense about the area unless you want me to call you out on it. I am happy to report there was no nonsense in this book. The author was spot on in describing the city and its’ atmosphere.
I like it when a book surprises me or gives me something new and different. I recommend this book to readers of cozy mysteries. I think you will find it as enjoyable as I did. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
For more of my reviews, and author interviews, see my book blog at www.thespineview.com. I used my kindle unlimited account to read this book; however, the author did ask for a review. ( )

They see dead people - too bad only one of them wants to! Put together a murder to solve with ghosts and it makes for a fantastic read! ( )

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved the focus on family values and beliefs.

Three siblings learn of a gift they’ve all inherited. Each has found a unique way to cope. The different approaches do nothing to hamper the love they feel for one another.

I enjoyed watching Becky’s interactions. Ghosts are treated with the same respect and consideration as the living. This compassion draws in guidance from the distance past. Becky is the only person to see and hear her.

Becky’s surprise? A visitor from a decade ago. What happened that night ten years ago? Why now? Too many coincidences quickly come to light. ( )