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Disturbia Diaries #1
I Spy Dead People
Horror movie and junk-food junkie, fifteen-year-old Piper Grimaldi wishes for three things:
1. to help her true-crime novelist father solve a mystery,
2. to settle down and make one town their home, and
3. to have a social life, which includes a BFF and a boyfriend (even if she's not allowed to date for another year).
It looks like her dreams will come true when on the first day in Hollow Ridge, MA, she befriends her next-door neighbor, mauls a cute boy, and spies on teen soap star, Linzy Quinn. But then the boy rejects her kiss, and Piper finds Linzy’s dead body. To make matters worse (as if that’s possible), Linzy’s ghost appears, in full color, and won’t leave Piper alone.
Piper desperately wants to help Linzy move into that darn light, but Linzy’s more interested in seeking revenge on all the people she believes did her wrong … including the person who killed her. If Piper can’t find Linzy’s killer, she just may be the next true-crime victim of Hollow Ridge.
1. to help her true-crime novelist father solve a mystery,
2. to settle down and make one town their home, and
3. to have a social life, which includes a BFF and a boyfriend (even if she's not allowed to date for another year).
It looks like her dreams will come true when on the first day in Hollow Ridge, MA, she befriends her next-door neighbor, mauls a cute boy, and spies on teen soap star, Linzy Quinn. But then the boy rejects her kiss, and Piper finds Linzy’s dead body. To make matters worse (as if that’s possible), Linzy’s ghost appears, in full color, and won’t leave Piper alone.
Piper desperately wants to help Linzy move into that darn light, but Linzy’s more interested in seeking revenge on all the people she believes did her wrong … including the person who killed her. If Piper can’t find Linzy’s killer, she just may be the next true-crime victim of Hollow Ridge.
258 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2013
3 people are currently reading
238 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Fischetto
34 books111 followersJennifer Fischetto is a USA TODAY bestselling author of supernatural thrillers filled with dark twists, eerie suspense, and lipstick-stained secrets. She writes about women who carry wounds, face monsters, and still choose love, blending emotional honesty with dangerous thrills to explore the cracks between what we fear and what we feel. She believes the truest ending is one where healing wins.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
February 1, 2014
This review was first posted on Ruby's Reads.
I’m kind of on a roll with teen mysteries lately. I found I Spy Dead People while I was looking for information about the third book in Gemma Halliday’s delightful Deadly Cool series. Her name popped up as the coauthor of this book, which is a complete fallacy. Halliday didn’t co-write I Spy Dead People, she published it. This is, possibly, a cheap gimmick, but one I have no objection to. I probably wouldn’t have purchased I Spy Dead People if Halliday’s name hadn’t been associated with it, and that would have been a shame. It’s a fun teen mystery with a dash of paranormal.
I Spy Dead People introduces us to teen sleuth Piper Grimaldi, a girl inspired by strong heroines like Veronica Mars and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. (Kind of dated for a 15 year old at this point, but I’m not complaining.) Piper and her father just moved (for the zillionth time) to a neighborhood in suburban Massachusetts. Such is Piper’s life; her dad writes True Crime and every year they have to follow a new story so her father can write a new book. Piper’s sick of moving (it’s hell on her social life) and hopes Texas will stick. Especially when she meets a potential best friend and–even better–a potential love interest.
Though the love interest gets mentioned in the blurb, the romance in this one is scanty at best. In fact, I’m not even rooting for the obvious guy. I prefer the guy whom Piper firsts describes as kind of a skeezeball. (I liked him from the start, probably because of the fedora. I don’t care what Piper says, they are cool!) Piper spends most of the book trying to solve the mystery of her next door neighbor’s murder. She doesn’t have much time for romance. Her determination to solve the crime is fun and funny and, thankfully realistic. As a 15 year old, Piper’s scope is limited. There’s only so much she can discover with her limited resources and sometimes her investigation looks a lot more like snooping. Still, you gotta appreciate that she gets the job done, even when it’s at risk to her own life.
About Piper’s supernatural ability, I’ll say little. I don’t know if it’s spoilery to reveal, so I’ll just say that it adds a degree of interest that I really liked. I look forward to learning more about her powers as the series progresses. I still have a lot of questions, but I look forward to them being answered. Yes, I’ll definitely be reading book two. In fact, I can’t wait for it to come out. Jennifer Fischetto has written a delightful teen mystery and created a fun new heroine. I think Piper and I are going to be new best friends.
I’m kind of on a roll with teen mysteries lately. I found I Spy Dead People while I was looking for information about the third book in Gemma Halliday’s delightful Deadly Cool series. Her name popped up as the coauthor of this book, which is a complete fallacy. Halliday didn’t co-write I Spy Dead People, she published it. This is, possibly, a cheap gimmick, but one I have no objection to. I probably wouldn’t have purchased I Spy Dead People if Halliday’s name hadn’t been associated with it, and that would have been a shame. It’s a fun teen mystery with a dash of paranormal.
I Spy Dead People introduces us to teen sleuth Piper Grimaldi, a girl inspired by strong heroines like Veronica Mars and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. (Kind of dated for a 15 year old at this point, but I’m not complaining.) Piper and her father just moved (for the zillionth time) to a neighborhood in suburban Massachusetts. Such is Piper’s life; her dad writes True Crime and every year they have to follow a new story so her father can write a new book. Piper’s sick of moving (it’s hell on her social life) and hopes Texas will stick. Especially when she meets a potential best friend and–even better–a potential love interest.
Though the love interest gets mentioned in the blurb, the romance in this one is scanty at best. In fact, I’m not even rooting for the obvious guy. I prefer the guy whom Piper firsts describes as kind of a skeezeball. (I liked him from the start, probably because of the fedora. I don’t care what Piper says, they are cool!) Piper spends most of the book trying to solve the mystery of her next door neighbor’s murder. She doesn’t have much time for romance. Her determination to solve the crime is fun and funny and, thankfully realistic. As a 15 year old, Piper’s scope is limited. There’s only so much she can discover with her limited resources and sometimes her investigation looks a lot more like snooping. Still, you gotta appreciate that she gets the job done, even when it’s at risk to her own life.
About Piper’s supernatural ability, I’ll say little. I don’t know if it’s spoilery to reveal, so I’ll just say that it adds a degree of interest that I really liked. I look forward to learning more about her powers as the series progresses. I still have a lot of questions, but I look forward to them being answered. Yes, I’ll definitely be reading book two. In fact, I can’t wait for it to come out. Jennifer Fischetto has written a delightful teen mystery and created a fun new heroine. I think Piper and I are going to be new best friends.
December 6, 2013
Bought this book because of the interesting concept and the killer cover, and this new series by Jennifer Fischetto is a winner. Piper Grimaldi has had to deal with more than the average teen. Her mother left when she was four. Her father is a famous crime author who moves every time he starts writing a new book. She's never had a long-term BFF, can't date for another year, and wants to help her dad solve his mysteries--but he locks up his files.
Yet all of that and more is about to change with their latest move to Hollow Ridge, Massachusetts. Her dad is on site to start writing his next book and developing his own theories about the murder, and Piper discovers a great new friend next door. She also meets the son of the chief of detectives and finds they have a lot in common--including a love of horror movies. This new town starts to look pretty good. Not that it's all going to be easy, of course.
Everything gets complicated when a teenage neighbor dies and haunts the Grimaldi house and Piper is the only one who can see and hear her. Piper starts trying to solve this new murder, while also sneaking looks at her father's private work notes on the older murder case.
We stay in Piper's head as she makes headway and missteps, and see her meet all the suspects and offer personal offbeat opinions. Piper's unique voice shines through in every sentence. She honed her investigative skills watching DVDs of Veronica Mars, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Law & Order SVU, and needs every bit of this knowledge to solve both murders and make it through alive.
Definitely looking forward to the next book in the Disturbia Diaries series.
Yet all of that and more is about to change with their latest move to Hollow Ridge, Massachusetts. Her dad is on site to start writing his next book and developing his own theories about the murder, and Piper discovers a great new friend next door. She also meets the son of the chief of detectives and finds they have a lot in common--including a love of horror movies. This new town starts to look pretty good. Not that it's all going to be easy, of course.
Everything gets complicated when a teenage neighbor dies and haunts the Grimaldi house and Piper is the only one who can see and hear her. Piper starts trying to solve this new murder, while also sneaking looks at her father's private work notes on the older murder case.
We stay in Piper's head as she makes headway and missteps, and see her meet all the suspects and offer personal offbeat opinions. Piper's unique voice shines through in every sentence. She honed her investigative skills watching DVDs of Veronica Mars, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Law & Order SVU, and needs every bit of this knowledge to solve both murders and make it through alive.
Definitely looking forward to the next book in the Disturbia Diaries series.
March 12, 2014
Piper had just moved into the new neighborhood with her author father when Linzy, one of the neighbor's kid went missing. together with Kinley, a new friend she just made, Piper set out to investigate after she happened to be the last person who saw Linzy before the disappearance. to make matters more complicated, she stumbled upon Linzy's body. before she was able to get over the shock, she found Linzy's ghost in her bed, haunting her since she was the only one who could see her.
i received a free e-book from the author in exchanged for a review. looking at the cover, i had expect a lighthearted read. little did i know that there would be so much depth in it and so extremely addictive. the humor was completely unexpected, where i found myself grinning like an idiot often enough to draw gazes. Piper was simply an extraordinary character! there were nothing about her that doesn't scream lovable, though her friendship with Kinley was somewhat painful to look at, it was understandable for her to keep the secret of seeing a ghost to her new best friend. however, her friendship with Linzy was very entertaining. as self centered as Linzy was, i found myself rooting for her more and more through the pages. besides having the easy and enjoyable read to get me easily through the book, it was also the mystery of finding who Linzy's killer was that kept the suspense high and my curiosity at large.
my review: here
i received a free e-book from the author in exchanged for a review. looking at the cover, i had expect a lighthearted read. little did i know that there would be so much depth in it and so extremely addictive. the humor was completely unexpected, where i found myself grinning like an idiot often enough to draw gazes. Piper was simply an extraordinary character! there were nothing about her that doesn't scream lovable, though her friendship with Kinley was somewhat painful to look at, it was understandable for her to keep the secret of seeing a ghost to her new best friend. however, her friendship with Linzy was very entertaining. as self centered as Linzy was, i found myself rooting for her more and more through the pages. besides having the easy and enjoyable read to get me easily through the book, it was also the mystery of finding who Linzy's killer was that kept the suspense high and my curiosity at large.
my review: here
December 26, 2014
Let me preface by saying, this isn't one of my typical reading genres. I liked the story, and it moved along, but it felt more middle grade than YA to me--which is not necessarily a bad thing.
Piper is gunning for a chance at normal, something she's not likely to achieve with an author-dad who picks them up and moves as frequently as he changes his shirt. What we meet through her are a number of firsts: best friend, boyfriend, unlikely friendships with an enemy and a dead girl. Her dying desire to put down roots out-ranks the rest. They mystery of two deaths in the same quiet town pulls us into danger, excitement and the blooming hope of a first love/permanent home.
My only complaint with this story was the willful deception between Piper and her dad. They have a close bond, and it's endearing. I wanted her to be more candid with him and just a touch more obedient, but I suppose we all have to learn through error, and her behavior was expected and believable.
Recommended for those who like light reads and murder mysteries, with a touch of paranormal.
Content: Minor swearing, mild violence.
Piper is gunning for a chance at normal, something she's not likely to achieve with an author-dad who picks them up and moves as frequently as he changes his shirt. What we meet through her are a number of firsts: best friend, boyfriend, unlikely friendships with an enemy and a dead girl. Her dying desire to put down roots out-ranks the rest. They mystery of two deaths in the same quiet town pulls us into danger, excitement and the blooming hope of a first love/permanent home.
My only complaint with this story was the willful deception between Piper and her dad. They have a close bond, and it's endearing. I wanted her to be more candid with him and just a touch more obedient, but I suppose we all have to learn through error, and her behavior was expected and believable.
Recommended for those who like light reads and murder mysteries, with a touch of paranormal.
Content: Minor swearing, mild violence.
October 1, 2014
This was a fun YA mystery novel with a little supernatural element thrown in. The main character, Piper, is a 15 year old girl who moves with her dad to a new town. She is interested in mysteries and death (probably because her dad is a best-selling writer of true crimes). When her neighbor, Linzy, an teen actress on a soap, goes missing, Piper decides to do some investigating. Along the way she befriends another teen neighbor, and develops a crush on the son of the chief of police. Typical teen hijinks and embarrassments occur, but Piper is a fun character that I liked a lot. Things take a turn for the supernatural when Piper realizes she can see ghosts, in particular Linzy's ghost. Piper's pursuit of Linzy's killer brings attention to herself, and at times, Piper is pretty clueless about certain things until afterwards. But I suppose that is very typical of a teen! It's a good read, and I did not suspect who the murderer ended up being.
I won this copy in one of the Goodreads giveaways.
I won this copy in one of the Goodreads giveaways.
December 28, 2013
Well to start off I'd like to say that I was pretty interested just by the title even though it confused me. Now I'm not sure why. Anyway when I started reading this book it seriously took me a while to get into it but when Troy came in I could just feel the tension within. Honestly this is quite a book if you're up for a story that makes everything in the night freak you out. I was reading this book about 3 days after Christmas at 10 pm. I tell you the first thing to freak me out was that TV that turned on twice mostly because my mom had said the TV turned on three times during last spring by itself. Although one thing I didn't like about this was the fact of Troy and Piper's parents getting together, but I think it can manage as I am looking quite forward to future books. Can't wait to read the next part of the series, and keep it up Jennifer you've got my attention ;)
~ Received book from Jennifer Fischetto for Fair Review
Signed Jesstyn Kenworth
~ Received book from Jennifer Fischetto for Fair Review
Signed Jesstyn Kenworth
May 18, 2014
Recently, I had the privilege of reading "I Spy Dead People" by the wonderful Jennifer Fischetto. I thought it was a great read! The characters were written wonderfully and she caught the teenage angst and drama perfectly!
One scene perfectly captures Jennifer's ability to weave comedic moments into her writing. It is a a scene between Piper and Troy. When you come across it, you will no doubt know what I'm talking about.
I am looking forward to reading "We Are The Wierdos" the next book in Disturbia Diaries.
- Sadie Corwin
February 4, 2014
This book has it all. It is well written with wonderfully developed characters that suck you into the story and keep you pulled in until the end. It contains everything necessary to keep you entertained; mystery, adventure, romance, and humor all thrown into the mix. I don’t normally read YA books, but this one was written so well that I feel it is good for YA and Adults. It kept me entertained as an adult and I found the YA angst funny and I could definitely remember those days and relate. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
January 19, 2014
This is a 5 star if not more stars needed. Jen captures you from page one. This book is a must read. Piper, is everyone’s teenage daughter who wants to be a P.I. She brings you a bit of Veronica Mars with a great twist. ( not going to give it away) I stayed up till 4 in the morning to finish this book and it left me wanting more. Jen has amazing talent and tells a great story. Follow Piper and her friends(or maybe not friends) and see what happens. You will be a long for the adventure.
August 16, 2014
When Piper moves to a new town for her Dad's work, she's looking to solve an old murder mystery before her Dad does. Little does she realize, she's about to become embroiled in her own murder mystery in the form of child-star Linzy, who is murdered and begins to haunt Piper.
This isn't just a YA mystery novel, it will appeal to readers of all ages. Great fun, and will keep you turning the pages!
This isn't just a YA mystery novel, it will appeal to readers of all ages. Great fun, and will keep you turning the pages!
January 4, 2014
Holy balls!!!! this book was so super good.... I guessed through out the book who the killer was... but in the end I wasn't even close... haha.... it was mysterious and hilarious and I couldn't bear to part with it... I would have to say this is one of my favorite books!!!! I loved Piper's personality it was fun to hear what she thought about everything... GOOD JOB JENNIFER!!! LOVED IT!
July 31, 2014
This is a teen/pre-teen book that I 1st found/got for my 9 year old son (he may have been 8 but I'm thinking he just turned 9). This is one story he didn't put down, and when I started it last night I couldn't either. Great book for kids, teens, & adults.
April 21, 2014
It was suprisingly good read. Piper is a nifty girl with a ability to see ghosts, she's smart and curious and solves two murders in two weeks after moving into a new neighborhood.
March 2, 2016
Light, enjoyable reading. For those who love mysteries and YA.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews