The Skeleton in the Closet by Angie Fox is book 2 in the "Southern Ghost Hunter Mysteries," but aside from book 1, there's also a novella (1.5) between the two books. I did not read the first book, but did read the novella. Neither is required before reading this book.
I have read Angie Fox's other series, my favorite being the Biker Witches Mysteries. This series is not nearly as fun, nor as funny as the other series. This is a true "cozy" mystery, complete with paranormal (ghosts, poltergeists, and energies), with a little (very little) romance thrown in.
Verity Long, the main character, discovers a body while helping her sister in the town library. Because she can see ghosts, the lead detective allows her in on the investigation, and she wishes to help solve the murder of one of her sister's close friends. However, she immediately suspects her (secret) boyfriend's mother of being the murderer. She's also dealing with his brother, her ex-fiance who thinks he might want Verity back.
The story does a lovely job with the paranormal. The ghost's stories are the most intriguing and thought out. The main cast of characters could use more. It's pretty clear what Verity needs to do to free Frankie, but it never occurs to them in this book. It's also clear that Verity and Ellis should stop dating in secret. Another thing that needs to happen is that now Verity has revenge on her ex-boyfriend's mother, she should be able to get back enough money to at least feed herself. The over-the-top viciousness of Virginia Wydell was the red herring covering the true villain, not that he was particularly well hidden.
This is an interesting series, and the story was very well told. I did enjoy the individual ghosts, Lucy (Verity's pet SKUNK), and Ellis. This was a solid read, and I wouldn't mind reading book 3.
I recommend this for those who love cozy mysteries.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
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