A semi-spooky mystery with ghosts, supernatural powers, and cats. What more could you need?
I’m presently working on reading through and cleaning out my bookshelves, and A Harvest of Bones was one of my recent selections. I’ve been writing a lot in the mystery genre lately, so it’s always nice to do a little “research.”
From the Cover: It’s harvest time in Chiqetaw, Washington; Emerald O’Brien’s favorite season. But this year, nature yields a most supernatural bounty. When Em and her sweetie, Joe, stumble over a bramble-covered foundation that has remained hidden for fifty years in the lot next door, strange events begin to occur. The cat vanishes. Will o’ the Wisps threaten to harm Emerald and her loved ones. And the ghost of a woman named Brigit and her beloved calico make themselves at home in the backyard. Now it’s up to Em and her friends to delve into the past, reveal the secrets of the dead and lay them to rest as they ring in the autumn with a harvest of bones.
What I Loved: Like I said: cats! Okay, yes there are plenty of other good things about this book. It was a nice combination of murder, ghosts, history, witchcraft, psychic powers, and everyday life. The characters were mostly relatable and easy to keep track of. The mystery in question was engaging, and while I had an idea of whodunnit about halfway through, all the little details were held back until the end. And yes, there really were plenty of cats.
“Even a diary isn’t safe from prying eyes. But a cat will listen, and keep her silence for you.”
What I Didn’t Love So Much: I grabbed this book at a library booksale with the thought that it was more of a cozy mystery. A liberal sprinkling of cuss words and a dash of semi-steamy scenes made this not nearly as cozy as I imagined. I wasn’t offended by any of this; I just didn’t really expect it. Readers who prefer something a little cleaner might not be interested.
Rating and Recommendation: If you’re looking for a good mystery that’s a fun and easy read, I definitely recommend A Harvest of Bones. I’m giving this book four stars.
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Ashley O’Melia is an independent author and freelancer from Southern Illinois. She holds her Bachelor’s Degree in Creative Writing and English from Southern New Hampshire University. Her books include The Wanderer’s Guide to Dragon Keeping and The Graveside Detective. Her short stories have been published in The Penmen Review, Paradox, and Subcutaneous. Ashley’s freelance work has spanned numerous genres for clients around the world. You can find her on Facebook and Amazon.
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Ashley O'Melia, Author 