Sophia Rose is here with the thirteenth novel in the Southern Ghost Hunter paranormal cozy series. cozy up with a cup of coffee and see why Sophia loved Death in the Drive-In by Angie Fox.

Death at the Drive-In
by Angie Fox
Series: Southern Ghost Hunter Mysteries #13
Genres: Cozy Mystery
Purchase*: Amazon *affiliate

Rating:

For ghost hunter Verity Long, ‘helping out a friend’ can mean anything from passing the peas to solving a homicide. This time, it involves digging into a cold case that’s been on ice since poodle skirts twirled and Elvis’s hips shook the nation.

In 1956, Kitty Cunningham disappeared on the way to the Starlite Drive-In. Now the first real evidence of foul play is coming to light in the ghostly realm—and it links directly to a modern crime. Only a sleuth with one foot in the past can solve the mystery and make things right.

Armed with her wits and flanked by a wise-cracking gangster ghost, Verity explores the hidden side of 1950s Sugarland—from the haunting echoes of the abandoned drive-in to the dusty secrets of a long-forgotten mob vault. As she stirs spirits and secrets alike, she finds some corners of Sugarland’s history are darker and more dangerous than she ever imagined. Can Verity bring the truth to light, or will she be the next one to suffer death at the drive-in?

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Sophia Rose’s Review

A missing girl from 1956 is at the heart of the ghostly uproar that descends on Verity and Frankie in this latest supernatural case to crack bringing to light the dark side of Verity’s sweet Sugarland.  This is an auto-buy series and I can’t help bouncing with excitement for the latest Southern Ghost Hunter mystery.

After their recent case was solved, Verity is taking some quiet time to prep her pet skunk Lucy for the annual pet obstacle course race and her ghostly gangster detecting partner, Frankie, is busy making shine in a rickety still out by the apple trees for his ghostly sweetheart.  Situation normal.  Until it isn’t.

Suddenly Frankie’s gal, Molly is possessed by another spirit and the clock is ticking on cracking the case to give the spirit peace so she’ll move on before eating up all of Molly’s ghostly energy.  The case takes them to the old drive in, a no tell motel, and an Irish gang’s pub that had their heyday back in the fifties.  Frankie is a gangster on a mission even if he has to take down the Irish gang and drag Verity into deadly danger to do it.

Death at the Drive In leaped out of the gate with good action and kept me riveted through the twists and turns to the end.  I love how this book had some great action scenes and suspense even while keeping up the great partnership fun of Verity and Frankie with their opposite approach to solving the case- sweet, small-town girl vs a gangster ghost still with a streak of larceny.  The dialogue and Frankie’s antics is quite humorous between the two of them.  And, then there was that great moment when Verity ends up with a stunner human back-up partner none other than her long-time nemesis when her cop boyfriend is busy elsewhere.

I’m still of the opinion, thirteen books in, that Southern Ghost Hunter is one of the best paranormal cozy mystery series out there and not to be missed by those who love the genre.

Amazon

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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/04/death-at-the-drive-in-by-angie-fox.html

Maintaining a healthy weight can often be a challenging endeavor, particularly in a world awash with dietary fads and quick-fix solutions. J.A. Cox’s Eat Your Way Slim and Enjoy Every Bite offers a refreshing departure from this trend, presenting a thoughtful and evidence-based approach to weight management.

Cox’s work stands out for its refusal to succumb to the hyperbole often associated with weight loss literature. Instead, he brings a systematic and research-backed perspective to the subject. His writing is grounded in scientific principles, making the depth of research and consideration that has gone into his approach clear to readers. This lends a sense of credibility and trustworthiness to his recommendations, distinguishing the book in a genre often criticized for its lack of scientific rigor. The book’s appeal is further enhanced by Cox’s engaging writing style. He strikes a balance between being informative and conversational, making complex nutritional concepts accessible without oversimplifying them. This approach facilitates a genuine connection with readers, who may find his realistic and candid insights particularly relatable. Cox does not merely dictate instructions; instead, he invites readers into a discussion, empowering them to make informed decisions about their dietary habits. Central to Cox’s narrative is the idea that diet plays a pivotal role in determining body weight. He encourages a critical examination of one’s eating habits, providing readers with practical tools and knowledge to align their diet with their health goals. His emphasis on the use of food as a positive instrument in one’s weight loss journey is particularly noteworthy.

Eat Your Way Slim and Enjoy Every Bite is not just about losing weight; it’s about a holistic understanding of nutrition, metabolism, and healthful living. Cox’s diligent research, combined with his clear and precise presentation, makes the book an invaluable resource for anyone looking to embark on a sustainable and healthy weight management journey. It empowers readers to take charge of their health, offering guidance on mindful eating and informed decision-making. For those seeking to navigate the often overwhelming world of diet and nutrition, this book is a grounded, insightful, and ultimately empowering read.

Pages: 232 | ASIN : B08GYB5RWK

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/10/eat-your-way-slim-and-enjoy-every-bite/

Extraordinary Experiences of an Everyday Woman takes readers on a captivating journey into the metaphysical and spiritual realms, portrayed through the author’s vivid personal experiences. Stewart’s autobiography ventures beyond the conventional and delves into interactions with higher dimensional beings, her exploration of psychic abilities, and encounters with extraterrestrial entities. The book is meticulously structured, guiding readers through various aspects of Stewart’s spiritual journey, from clairvoyance and dreams to her profound experiences at different locations, including her own home.

Stewart’s writing style is a blend of candid reflection and mystical exploration, striking a balance that keeps the reader engaged. Her descriptions of spiritual and extraterrestrial encounters are detailed and evocative, which paints a picture that is both intriguing and thought-provoking. The book covers a broad array of topics. This wide-ranging approach that, while comprehensive, made me feel as if I needed a central thread that provided me with guidance through the myriad of experiences and concepts discussed.

One of the book’s strengths is its ability to bridge the gap between the mystical and the everyday. Stewart’s experiences, whether it’s communication with dimensional beings or insights gained through dreams and visions, are presented in a way that encourages readers to consider the existence and influence of spiritual dimensions in their own lives. The book’s personal tone makes the content approachable, though I think the depth and complexity of the topics discussed might be more suited to readers already familiar with metaphysical concepts.

Extraordinary Experiences of an Everyday Woman offers a unique and personal glimpse into the world of spiritual awakening and metaphysical phenomena. Its blend of personal anecdotes and explorations into the unknown makes it a compelling read. This book is best suited for those who have an interest in spirituality and metaphysical concepts or anyone embarking on their own journey of spiritual discovery. Stewart’s book provides an eye-opening account of her experiences and serves as a guide for others who may be navigating similar paths.

Pages: 96 | ASIN : B0CT34N8ZR

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/10/extraordinary-experiences-of-an-everyday-woman/

Louis McCall’s Mary: Intimate Witness to God’s Love Incarnate delves into the life of a figure at once deeply revered and somewhat enigmatic: Mary, the mother of Jesus. While millions venerate her name, the intricacies of her personal life remain largely unexplored. This book attempts to bridge that gap, offering a portrayal not just of Mary as a symbol of purity and faith but as a multifaceted individual navigating a male-dominated world.

The narrative reimagines Mary’s life, akin to how she might have penned her own memoir. McCall provides a vivid account of her transformation from a young girl in obscurity to a figure embodying resilience and unwavering faith. The book delves into how her experiences as a woman of her time and the cultural and historical context of her upbringing might have shaped her life and beliefs. Mary: Intimate Witness to God’s Love Incarnate is a synthesis of meticulous historical research, cultural insights, and scriptural references. It paints an evocative picture of a woman central to the genesis of Christianity. McCall’s writing is both fluid and engaging, offering a rich perspective that blends historical insights with religious context. This book is particularly appealing to those with interests in history or religion, as it merges these realms to present a vibrant depiction of an extraordinary woman whose story extends beyond conventional understanding.

Mary: Intimate Witness to God’s Love Incarnate, by Louis McCall, stands as a compelling exploration of Mary’s life, beyond her established religious significance. It skillfully intertwines historical context with religious narrative, offering a nuanced portrayal that resonates with both historians and religious readers alike. This book is an enlightening journey into the life of a woman who has been a central figure in Christianity, providing a fresh perspective that enriches our understanding of her legacy.

Pages: 93 | ASIN : B0CVLFQ3CJ

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/10/mary-intimate-witness-to-gods-love-incarnate/

Catherine Hughes’ novel, In Silence Cries the Heart, weaves a captivating narrative through a dual-timeline structure. The protagonist, Caitlyn, embarks on a tour of the historic Undlay Castle, where she uncovers the poignant tale of Mary and Donal’s forbidden romance, revealed to her through two profound dreams. The first occurs after she faints at the castle, and the second unfolds as she peers into an adder’s stone. Set in contrasting eras, 2018 and 1665, the novel explores themes of love and autonomy in choosing a life partner. Born into nobility, Mary is pressured by her father to marry within their social class. Defying her father’s wishes, she falls for Donal, a cattle thief, and plans to elope with him, a decision that brings dire consequences.

Hughes skillfully navigates the historical backdrop of Mary and Donal’s story, set in 1665, with Caitlyn’s contemporary journey in 2018, drawing parallels between the past and present in love and choice. The novel delves into the restrictive societal norms of Mary’s time, contrasting them with Caitlyn’s modern perspective. Catherine Hughes’ narrative technique is particularly noteworthy. Rather than presenting Mary and Donal’s story as a mere tale within Caitlyn’s tour, Hughes opts for a more immersive approach, using vivid dreams to draw Caitlyn—and the reader—deeper into the historical romance. This method elevates the story’s impact, especially as the novel concludes with a nod to the tale’s veracity during the tour.

The character of Mary is intriguingly multifaceted. Hughes artfully navigates the complexities of Mary’s persona, balancing her resilience and independence with the profound impact of her love for Donal. This dynamic portrayal showcases Mary’s strength, which is evident in her passionate advocacy for Meggie and her active involvement in the Cameron brothers’ execution. Simultaneously, it explores her vulnerability, particularly in her interactions with Hilda and the decisions driven by her deep love. This nuanced depiction adds depth to Mary’s character, making her relatable and inspiring as she navigates the challenges of love and societal expectations.

In Silence Cries the Heart presents a layered and engaging narrative, offering a fresh take on the romance genre. Hughes’ use of a story within a story, combined with a blend of historical and contemporary elements, creates a rich tapestry that thoughtfully explores themes of love, choice, and societal constraints.

Pages: 360 | ASIN : B0CKLXTLXQ

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/10/in-silence-cries-the-heart/

Your book, Steeped: My Search for Tea and Transformation in India, shares your ten-week journey across India and how this experience took you on a journey of self-discovery and transformed your life. Could you tell us why this book was essential for you to write?

I went to India naively, thinking that the subcontinent would simply bestow upon me some transformation into an elevated life and I would come back an improved human. The trip changed me for sure, but it was really just a step along my path. A BIG step, but not the fully wrapped-up evolutionary product of my fantasies. So, you ask the question accurately. The trip to India took me on a journey, and that journey continues to this day.

Writing the book, then, was another step on the journey as I challenged myself to go deep and explore what gifts my travels did bestow upon me.

Your journey took you to some amazing places and gave you a new perspective on many areas of your life. What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

One theme that arises in the book is acceptance, which, turns out, is at odds with a search for transformation. Striving toward evolution, in my case anyway, is borne of dissatisfaction with myself. The puzzle is that happiness comes from contentment, and contentment comes from acceptance. I mean, like, true acceptance of exactly what is.

So, as I left my job and my home and went to the other side of the world looking for self-improvement, what I really needed was self-acceptance. The frustrating paradox, then, is that the more I demanded transformation, the further I got from it. What I was looking for could only be found by no longer needing to look for it.

I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?

In my earliest drafts of the book, I allowed that what I’d undertaken was bold and brave, and thus I presented a fairly together protagonist handling the challenges of travel with relative aplomb.

But the truth was, I was terrified as I quit my job and undertook these travels. I was riddled with anxiety at every turn of my journey. Exposing the messy reality of that felt vulnerable—both because it revealed unflattering truths and because it felt self-indulgent. I learned along the way, though, that the more I revealed, the more my readers wanted me to reveal. In the end—and by no surprise as I look back—the vulnerability is what pulls people in, even as my ego imagines the opposite to be true.

What is one thing you hope readers take away from your story?

It’s funny, because while there were so many lessons like the ones alluded to above, the big lesson is sort of the starting point of the book: Just do the thing! If I could inspire one thing for readers, it would be that they find the courage to get their own bold ideas off the bucket list and onto the calendar—in any area of life, not just travel. But Steeped is first and foremost a travelogue. So, maybe the one thing is that readers sink into and delight in the sights, sounds, scents, joys and struggles of travel in India.

Author Links: GoodReads | Website

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/10/just-do-the-thing/