Now You See It

Book Review: Now You See It by Carol J. Perry

Overall rating: ⭐⭐⭐ stars

In Now You See It, Lee Barrett, recently married to Detective Sergeant Pete Mondello, takes on a new and exciting role as WICH-TV's “Historical Documentary Chief Executive.” Thrilled about her first project, Lee eagerly delves into the world of the Salem International Museum, a fascinating institution that is about to open its doors to the public.

However, as Lee immerses herself in her research and documentation tasks, little does she know that danger lurks in the shadows. A shocking turn of events unfolds when the lifeless body of the driver responsible for transporting the precious antiquities is discovered beneath a seemingly harmless pile of autumn leaves.
Determined to uncover the truth and bring justice to the deceased, Lee partners up with her supportive husband Pete, her ever-wise Aunt Ibby, their loyal friends, and the enigmatic clairvoyant cat O'Ryan.

Together, this formidable team embarks on an enthralling journey to unravel the mystery surrounding the tragic demise and the eerie circumstances that surround it. Their quest for answers leads them to the uncharted territory of a haunted ship model, adding an extra layer of intrigue to their already compelling investigation.

Set against the backdrop of Salem, Massachusetts, Now You See It captures the essence of this historically rich and supernaturally charged locale. Author Carol J. Perry masterfully transports readers to a world teeming with secrets, where the past intertwines with the present, and where paranormal phenomena intertwine with everyday life.

The characters in this installment of the Witch City Mystery series are not only likable but also highly relatable. Lee Barrett, in particular, shines as a captivating protagonist who skillfully balances her psychic abilities with her unwavering determination to solve perplexing mysteries. Perry's skillful character development makes it effortless for readers to connect with and root for these lovable individuals as they navigate through a web of intrigue.

Perry's writing style is both engaging and enjoyable. With a skillful blend of dialogue and descriptive passages, she effortlessly paints vivid pictures in the reader's mind, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the story's unfolding events.

While Now You See It boasts well-constructed mysteries that keep readers guessing, some may find the pacing a bit sluggish at times. Certain scenes tend to be unnecessarily prolonged, which can disrupt the overall flow of the narrative and momentarily detract from the excitement.

Moreover, one notable drawback of this book is its excessive repetition of past events and character traits. While providing necessary context can be helpful for readers who are new to the series or may have forgotten certain details, the constant reiteration can become tiresome for those who have been following Lee Barrett's adventures since the beginning.

Despite these minor flaws, Now You See It remains an entertaining addition to the Witch City Mystery series. It offers readers an enjoyable escape into the enchanting world of Salem's supernatural secrets, where questions beg to be answered and where danger lurks around every corner. With its captivating characters and masterfully crafted setting, this book is sure to keep fans of mystery and paranormal fiction intrigued until the very end.

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️