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Abby Spector Ghost Mystery #1
Say I Boo
Preventing a Murder is hard—especially when all the suspects are dead.
When whimsical stage magician, Abby Spector, finds herself snowbound in a mysterious mansion days before her friend's wedding, she uncovers a vengeful spirit's deadly agenda. Armed with her quick wit and tools from a former paranormal investigator, Abby must navigate a web of ghostly suspects and cryptic clues.
Alongside her eccentric allies, she embarks on an enchanting journey brimming with supernatural suspense, whodunit intrigue, and a budding sapphic romance. As Abby bridges the gap between the living and the spectral, she unravels deep secrets that lie within the haunted estate.
With the wedding approaching, Abby must face her tragic past and unite old friends in a race against time to identify and vanquish the correct ghost before the big day. Can they put their differences aside and prevent a murder from beyond the grave?
Prepare to be enchanted by this delightful ghost mystery book, featuring a queer Jewish sleuth and her lovable nerdy sidekicks. Say I Boo is perfect for fans of Psych, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Supernatural.
When whimsical stage magician, Abby Spector, finds herself snowbound in a mysterious mansion days before her friend's wedding, she uncovers a vengeful spirit's deadly agenda. Armed with her quick wit and tools from a former paranormal investigator, Abby must navigate a web of ghostly suspects and cryptic clues.
Alongside her eccentric allies, she embarks on an enchanting journey brimming with supernatural suspense, whodunit intrigue, and a budding sapphic romance. As Abby bridges the gap between the living and the spectral, she unravels deep secrets that lie within the haunted estate.
With the wedding approaching, Abby must face her tragic past and unite old friends in a race against time to identify and vanquish the correct ghost before the big day. Can they put their differences aside and prevent a murder from beyond the grave?
Prepare to be enchanted by this delightful ghost mystery book, featuring a queer Jewish sleuth and her lovable nerdy sidekicks. Say I Boo is perfect for fans of Psych, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Supernatural.
330 pages, Paperback
First published September 10, 2023
26 people are currently reading
895 people want to read
About the author
Morgan Spellman
4 books27 followersMorgan Spellman grew up in North Carolina, where he listened to too many ghost stories and stayed up late to sneak episodes of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. As a trans man, he writes heartwarming stories inspired by the fantasy adventures and charming cozy mysteries he devoured in early adulthood, with more LGBTQ+ characters front and center. When he's not writing, reading, or working his day job, you’ll likely find him playing Dungeons & Dragons, reading his wife’s fan fiction, or binge-watching murder mysteries with his cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
September 12, 2023
Happy release day!
Huge thanks to Morgan Spellman for sending me a copy to review! Say I Boo is a queer mash-up of Ghosts and Clue, full of puns and friendship, and will be out September 12th.
I enjoy a bit of paranormal flavoring added to otherwise straightforward genres, like westerns or mysteries; here, it does well spicing up an otherwise fairy typical cozy manor mystery. I had a few small issues. Mainly, I found the book too long for the fairly simple bottom line; a bit too much lingering description and exposition when scenes could have cut to the chase quicker. As a result I found myself struggling to get back to it. And while it is lighthearted for a ghostly murder mystery - a concept by nature steeped in death - I also felt that some of the more ridiculous moments to lighten everything up were farcical at times. (Ziplining from a roof on weak string lights pulled me out of the story, but I bet that moment would look great in a movie adaptation.)
However, the parts that were good and entertaining were very much that. Abby is a magician for hire, setting the stage for some hilarious antics. The book employs the best hooks for an audience early on, hinting at Abby's dead friend or lover, sending her to an eerie old Victorian manor where she's promptly snowed in, and presenting a quirky and distinctive character roster. Once she starts ghost hunting with some "legit" equipment, it gets funny. The story really reminds me of the show Ghosts, in the funnest way. There's a bunch of characters wandering around with different "haunts", pun intended, around the house, different temperaments, from different eras. Some are making out in corners, and some just want the television turned on.
Abby struggles with vocabulary, particularly four syllable and longer words. Her misinterpretation of erroneous as erogenous, and other moments with big words were super funny in conversation with old-timey, offended ghosts. She's not the brightest crayon in the box, either. This makes her a really accessible detective - Abby's not too smart for the reader, deducing off-screen and acting smarter than everyone else, and you're able to figure things out alongside her, and perhaps the big reveal before her.
It was great to have zero homophobia in the story, and Abby finding a Sapphic romance of her own after her past grief. I also appreciated that, while the author and protagonist alike have suffered profound loss, the book tells you that it will be okay. You honor memories, make new friends, and make the best of your own life moving forward. Abby's a good bulwark of a series in this day and age.
Overall, while I had issues with the pacing that made the book feel a lot longer than it was, I think the detailed work put into character construction and crafting an emotional core of the book worked great. Fans of queer stories, paranormal adventures, and cozy mysteries alike should enjoy this.
Huge thanks to Morgan Spellman for sending me a copy to review! Say I Boo is a queer mash-up of Ghosts and Clue, full of puns and friendship, and will be out September 12th.
I enjoy a bit of paranormal flavoring added to otherwise straightforward genres, like westerns or mysteries; here, it does well spicing up an otherwise fairy typical cozy manor mystery. I had a few small issues. Mainly, I found the book too long for the fairly simple bottom line; a bit too much lingering description and exposition when scenes could have cut to the chase quicker. As a result I found myself struggling to get back to it. And while it is lighthearted for a ghostly murder mystery - a concept by nature steeped in death - I also felt that some of the more ridiculous moments to lighten everything up were farcical at times. (Ziplining from a roof on weak string lights pulled me out of the story, but I bet that moment would look great in a movie adaptation.)
However, the parts that were good and entertaining were very much that. Abby is a magician for hire, setting the stage for some hilarious antics. The book employs the best hooks for an audience early on, hinting at Abby's dead friend or lover, sending her to an eerie old Victorian manor where she's promptly snowed in, and presenting a quirky and distinctive character roster. Once she starts ghost hunting with some "legit" equipment, it gets funny. The story really reminds me of the show Ghosts, in the funnest way. There's a bunch of characters wandering around with different "haunts", pun intended, around the house, different temperaments, from different eras. Some are making out in corners, and some just want the television turned on.
Abby struggles with vocabulary, particularly four syllable and longer words. Her misinterpretation of erroneous as erogenous, and other moments with big words were super funny in conversation with old-timey, offended ghosts. She's not the brightest crayon in the box, either. This makes her a really accessible detective - Abby's not too smart for the reader, deducing off-screen and acting smarter than everyone else, and you're able to figure things out alongside her, and perhaps the big reveal before her.
It was great to have zero homophobia in the story, and Abby finding a Sapphic romance of her own after her past grief. I also appreciated that, while the author and protagonist alike have suffered profound loss, the book tells you that it will be okay. You honor memories, make new friends, and make the best of your own life moving forward. Abby's a good bulwark of a series in this day and age.
Overall, while I had issues with the pacing that made the book feel a lot longer than it was, I think the detailed work put into character construction and crafting an emotional core of the book worked great. Fans of queer stories, paranormal adventures, and cozy mysteries alike should enjoy this.
December 2, 2023
Who you gonna’ call? Abby & Lucas!
This book is the perfect blend of humour with puns galore, sassy ghosts, who dunnit with a paranormal twist, bridezilla, pop culture, friendship rekindling, tragedy and a cute little budding romance subplot. I loved it SO much. I don’t have a negative thing to say. It’s basically a delightful scooby doo x psych x supernatural crossover.
A quick rundown of the premise of the story: Abby gets stuck at a “creepy” mansion picking up her best friend only to find out it’s haunted. She gets attacked by a ghost in the middle of the night and is determined to get to the bottom of who and why.
It’s PERFECT for spooky season.
I received a free copy of this book from Morgan and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is the perfect blend of humour with puns galore, sassy ghosts, who dunnit with a paranormal twist, bridezilla, pop culture, friendship rekindling, tragedy and a cute little budding romance subplot. I loved it SO much. I don’t have a negative thing to say. It’s basically a delightful scooby doo x psych x supernatural crossover.
A quick rundown of the premise of the story: Abby gets stuck at a “creepy” mansion picking up her best friend only to find out it’s haunted. She gets attacked by a ghost in the middle of the night and is determined to get to the bottom of who and why.
It’s PERFECT for spooky season.
I received a free copy of this book from Morgan and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 19, 2023
I wrote this book & I’m so excited to share it with you all. If you’re interested in a lighthearted mystery involving ghosts, best friend shenanigans, and a sapphic subplot, give it a try. I hope you enjoy 👻
June 10, 2025
Molto carino e misterioso!
September 16, 2023
This was the perfect queer cozy mystery novel I needed to start my fall off right! Abby Spector is a quirky stage magician just trying to get by in life while grappling with grief from a tragic loss in her life when she was younger. Abby has every reason to not be the upbeat, carefree person that she is, but Abby truly embraces life in every way. No matter what interesting and bizarre things it throws her way. Like an unplanned trip to pick up her best friend at a haunted manor, being attacked by a ghost, and then ending up in a whodunit mystery adventure with nothing but a walkie talkie, a salt gun, and a very special pair of binoculars. And did I mention all the prime suspects…are dead?
For a novel whose major plot line revolves around the subject of death and grief, this was a very lighthearted and humorous read. And there are mysteries to be solved both for the reader and the characters. In a house full of ghosts who all seem to have some sort of motive for wanting to commit murder - not to mention the fact that they are DEAD - it’s hard to figure out who the real culprit is. And Abby’s quirky, fly-by-the-seat-of-her-pants nature allows readers to guess and speculate alongside her. She doesn’t have a lot of inner monologues where she is rifling over details. She just lives in the moment, figuring things out as she goes, and making up plans along the way. It starts out a tad slow in the beginning, but once the action started this story had me at the edge of my seat!
There were also a ton of queer characters in this book (both living and dead) and I loved to see it! There is a sapphic subplot with Abby and Mina and I loved watching the growing tension and chemistry between these two. The connection between them, while not a primary focus of the story, is palpable from start to finish.
If you like cozy mysteries, girls who like girls, haunted mansions, and humor - you will definitely want to read Say I Boo! I highly recommend it!
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest (and voluntary) review.
For a novel whose major plot line revolves around the subject of death and grief, this was a very lighthearted and humorous read. And there are mysteries to be solved both for the reader and the characters. In a house full of ghosts who all seem to have some sort of motive for wanting to commit murder - not to mention the fact that they are DEAD - it’s hard to figure out who the real culprit is. And Abby’s quirky, fly-by-the-seat-of-her-pants nature allows readers to guess and speculate alongside her. She doesn’t have a lot of inner monologues where she is rifling over details. She just lives in the moment, figuring things out as she goes, and making up plans along the way. It starts out a tad slow in the beginning, but once the action started this story had me at the edge of my seat!
There were also a ton of queer characters in this book (both living and dead) and I loved to see it! There is a sapphic subplot with Abby and Mina and I loved watching the growing tension and chemistry between these two. The connection between them, while not a primary focus of the story, is palpable from start to finish.
If you like cozy mysteries, girls who like girls, haunted mansions, and humor - you will definitely want to read Say I Boo! I highly recommend it!
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest (and voluntary) review.
September 27, 2024
I absolutely loved this light hearted those filled who did it murder mystery. I loved all of the pop culture and puns through out and there was never a dull moment. This story kept me on the edge all the way through it trying to figure out who was the culprit. I can’t wait to read the next book for more Lucus and Abby paranormal investigations.
January 12, 2024
Six words: spooky but cozy paranormal murder mystery.
That was basically all I needed to pick this book up, honestly, and I have really had a fun time!! 100% recommended if you're looking for a cozy murder mystery, with a heartwarming friendship and a cute sapphic subplot, and lots of lgbtq+ rep.
I have really liked Abby's character. My girl has been through a hard time -and you can clearly see how much weight she carries over her shoulders-, yet she manages to be so upbeat and energetic. She, as well as the other characters, were defined and rounded, and each of them added to the plot and its development. I liked seeing them change and grow from the beginning to the end of the book; specially the early development of the sapphic romance. I loved seeing them connect and fall for each other, and the support from Abby's best friend.
Being a paranormal murder mystery with ghosts, I think this is a perfect fall story. Even dealing with spooky elements, reading this felt like being wrapped in a warm hug, somehow; and also manages to feel lighthearted even when dealing with the feeling of grieving. I don't know how else to explain it. Perhaps it was because of the friendships, perhaps it was because of seeing Abby walking her first steps towards a new, exciting relationship. Either way, I have really enjoyed this, and I am very looking forward to reading Abby's next adventures!
That was basically all I needed to pick this book up, honestly, and I have really had a fun time!! 100% recommended if you're looking for a cozy murder mystery, with a heartwarming friendship and a cute sapphic subplot, and lots of lgbtq+ rep.
I have really liked Abby's character. My girl has been through a hard time -and you can clearly see how much weight she carries over her shoulders-, yet she manages to be so upbeat and energetic. She, as well as the other characters, were defined and rounded, and each of them added to the plot and its development. I liked seeing them change and grow from the beginning to the end of the book; specially the early development of the sapphic romance. I loved seeing them connect and fall for each other, and the support from Abby's best friend.
Being a paranormal murder mystery with ghosts, I think this is a perfect fall story. Even dealing with spooky elements, reading this felt like being wrapped in a warm hug, somehow; and also manages to feel lighthearted even when dealing with the feeling of grieving. I don't know how else to explain it. Perhaps it was because of the friendships, perhaps it was because of seeing Abby walking her first steps towards a new, exciting relationship. Either way, I have really enjoyed this, and I am very looking forward to reading Abby's next adventures!
August 19, 2023
I am super biased, as Morgan’s my best friend.
I have taken my sweet time with this book, not because it was a slog (it isn’t), but because of a good old reading slump. But I finished it today, after mushroom gathering, and I loved it. Both the book and the mushroom hunting.
The book is a complex thing with both funny and endearing parts, and heartfelt and sad parts. I laughed, cried a little bit, and laughed some more.
The characters are fleshed out, and I really got a sense of who they were.
The ending was also such a fast paced and rather hilarious spectacle, loved it!
Read this if you: want something fun, LGBTQ+, cozy crime, autumnal detective stories, ghosts!
Don’t read this if you: are boring.
I have taken my sweet time with this book, not because it was a slog (it isn’t), but because of a good old reading slump. But I finished it today, after mushroom gathering, and I loved it. Both the book and the mushroom hunting.
The book is a complex thing with both funny and endearing parts, and heartfelt and sad parts. I laughed, cried a little bit, and laughed some more.
The characters are fleshed out, and I really got a sense of who they were.
The ending was also such a fast paced and rather hilarious spectacle, loved it!
Read this if you: want something fun, LGBTQ+, cozy crime, autumnal detective stories, ghosts!
Don’t read this if you: are boring.
August 2, 2023
If you’re looking for a spooky sapphic read, look no further! A fun ghost story mixed with comedy and a ton of heart!
I truly enjoyed this book. I had a million theories about what was going to happen at the end, and not one of them was right, which I loved! My favorite part of this book was how much personality our protagonist had. She was a ball of sunshine in the best way.
This is the perfect read for the fall! Huge thank you to Morgan for the ARC! :)
I truly enjoyed this book. I had a million theories about what was going to happen at the end, and not one of them was right, which I loved! My favorite part of this book was how much personality our protagonist had. She was a ball of sunshine in the best way.
This is the perfect read for the fall! Huge thank you to Morgan for the ARC! :)
October 31, 2023
A sweet, cozy read: perfect for ringing in the spooky season.
I'm a sucker for ghost stories, quirky MCs, and plotlines that focus strongly on platonic friendships, so found the antics of Abby Specter, party magician turned accidental paranormal investigator, delightful. If Legends and Lattes left you with a caffeine hangover, or if you're looking for a quick read that feels like drinking a pumpkin spice latte, this story might just be the one you're looking for.
I'm a sucker for ghost stories, quirky MCs, and plotlines that focus strongly on platonic friendships, so found the antics of Abby Specter, party magician turned accidental paranormal investigator, delightful. If Legends and Lattes left you with a caffeine hangover, or if you're looking for a quick read that feels like drinking a pumpkin spice latte, this story might just be the one you're looking for.
February 28, 2024
Cute, funny, suspenseful
Loved the who-dun-it style mystery, the character development and relationships were realistic and fun. The slowest of slow burns but it felt like you earned it by the end
Will patiently be waiting for the next Abby Spector mystery
Loved the who-dun-it style mystery, the character development and relationships were realistic and fun. The slowest of slow burns but it felt like you earned it by the end
Will patiently be waiting for the next Abby Spector mystery
May 13, 2025
seeing all the good reviews on this book, i actually feel guilty about the way that i feel about it— because i truly cannot describe this as anything but mid.
i can definitely see how it could be enjoyable: the premise is unique and lovely, and it works as a light, cozy read despite themes like grief and the whole paranormal whodunit thing— but it was the way these were carried out that i had issues with. none of the characters or relationships really stuck out to me; i just could neither like nor connect with abby at all, and her friendship with lucas just seemed more stilted than anything (the book literally mentions multiple times how lucas seems to have changed in different ways all of a sudden, e.g. not liking things he used to love, and how their friendship now seems to have a sudden and unexplainable distance, but it.. just doesn’t really resolve any of this in a satisfactory way?). the writing also just wasn’t for me; much of the dialogue — which had random pop culture references thrown in, mostly by abby, that seemed to not work with the other characters — didn’t feel like it was being said by characters 26 and up, and something about the style just grated on me— this kind of writing that seems to explain everything, such as in this line: “Mina’s eyes narrowed, implying that Abby was correct, but that she didn’t want to speak about it.” like. idk. feel like this could’ve just worked as ‘Mina’s eyes narrowed’ without telling me to my face what it’s meant to imply
still, as i said, the premise is great, so i’ll give it its flowers— a whodunit set in a manor with ghosts, gay characters, and classic goofy ghost-catching devices is something i’d never decline reading. i also have to give credit to the reveal, because it honestly genuinely spooked me
i can definitely see how it could be enjoyable: the premise is unique and lovely, and it works as a light, cozy read despite themes like grief and the whole paranormal whodunit thing— but it was the way these were carried out that i had issues with. none of the characters or relationships really stuck out to me; i just could neither like nor connect with abby at all, and her friendship with lucas just seemed more stilted than anything (the book literally mentions multiple times how lucas seems to have changed in different ways all of a sudden, e.g. not liking things he used to love, and how their friendship now seems to have a sudden and unexplainable distance, but it.. just doesn’t really resolve any of this in a satisfactory way?). the writing also just wasn’t for me; much of the dialogue — which had random pop culture references thrown in, mostly by abby, that seemed to not work with the other characters — didn’t feel like it was being said by characters 26 and up, and something about the style just grated on me— this kind of writing that seems to explain everything, such as in this line: “Mina’s eyes narrowed, implying that Abby was correct, but that she didn’t want to speak about it.” like. idk. feel like this could’ve just worked as ‘Mina’s eyes narrowed’ without telling me to my face what it’s meant to imply
still, as i said, the premise is great, so i’ll give it its flowers— a whodunit set in a manor with ghosts, gay characters, and classic goofy ghost-catching devices is something i’d never decline reading. i also have to give credit to the reveal, because it honestly genuinely spooked me
August 27, 2023
This was a cute, quirky book about ghost, friendship, family, grief and sooooo many gay characters! I love me a good gay book ♡♡
This book kept me guessing throughout its entirety. I was constantly trying to figure out who the murderous ghost was. I had my suspicions, but I could never land on just one suspect!
And that twist at the end? Loved it!
So, if you are in the mood for a sapphic, spooky read, look no further! Say I Boo is the book for you ♡♡
This book kept me guessing throughout its entirety. I was constantly trying to figure out who the murderous ghost was. I had my suspicions, but I could never land on just one suspect!
And that twist at the end? Loved it!
So, if you are in the mood for a sapphic, spooky read, look no further! Say I Boo is the book for you ♡♡
August 6, 2023
I was fortunate to receive an arc of this book and overall I enjoyed it. I found it a little hard to get into but once I did, I plowed through it. I didn’t feel captivated personally by any of the characters but I think others could.
Give this one a try if you enjoy a light hearted, paranormal tale with a moment of romance.
Give this one a try if you enjoy a light hearted, paranormal tale with a moment of romance.
October 26, 2023
This is a creative idea, a murder mystery of sorts except the victim isn't dead yet and the suspects are. General tone is pretty silly though it does delve into some deeper topics of grief and the main characters' relationships with their parents. A fun and easy read.
September 14, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. First of all, the writing was fantastic. It was smooth and breezy, and the pacing was even throughout. The characters (99% of them) were likable with their own quirks that made them relatable, albeit a bit cartoonish at times. I truly didn’t see where this one was going and it was fun to be along for the ride.
But oh my God, I had to take down a star because Abby has the emotional maturity of a potato. She could be completely infuriating with her lack of empathy for other characters and lack of respect for their boundaries. Also, in the beginning it felt like we were led to believe that Lucas was drawing away from Abby and we never saw that play out.
Ultimately, would definitely recommend! I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
But oh my God, I had to take down a star because Abby has the emotional maturity of a potato. She could be completely infuriating with her lack of empathy for other characters and lack of respect for their boundaries. Also, in the beginning it felt like we were led to believe that Lucas was drawing away from Abby and we never saw that play out.
Ultimately, would definitely recommend! I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 15, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐
👻🕵📻👰🏽♀️🐈
Who you going to call? ABBY.
Say I Boo by Morgan Spellman is a delightful ghost-detecting story, filled with wonderful ghost puns, humor, and detective work, mixed in with overcoming grief, moving on, and trying to stay alive.
Abby gets stuck in a haunted mansion when she comes to pick up her childhood best friend, Lucas, in a storm that makes it so she can't leave. Here, she gets attacked by what she believes is a ghost. To prove that she's not going crazy and the house is in fact haunted, she goes to a local ghost-hunting man's house and he gives her his ghost-hunting equipment. We are also made aware that Abby lost her girlfriend Chelsea from the beginning, but when the ghosts become apparent, she thinks about her past love more and more. (This is a mystery in itself because we don't know how she died until near the end of the book.)
Back at the house, Lucas's (bridezilla) sister is getting married, so there are several other characters including Michelle, her friend that she's not happy is around, Mina (who also happens to make Abby's heart pound in the best ways, and has a slightly grumpy attitude because she filled with grief of her own), the sister-in-law/bridesmaid, Annabelle, the "roommate" of the house owner, Sandra, eventually the house owner, Mrs. Kennsington, and of course a bunch of ghosts.
The whole premise of the book is to find out who attacked Abby, but when Mrs. Kennsington arrives back at the mansion, it becomes. more of who is trying to murder Mrs. Kennsington, and can they be stopped before they actually murder her? I figured it out before it was revealed, but it didn't make the story less intriguing.
This is not a romance book, but there is a subplot of Abby's growing feelings for Mina, and of course, overcoming her own grief with the loss of her childhood girlfriend.
This was a well-written book, I absolutely enjoyed it. Thank you to Morgan Spellman for a copy of the ebook. This review is left voluntarily.
👻🕵📻👰🏽♀️🐈
Who you going to call? ABBY.
Say I Boo by Morgan Spellman is a delightful ghost-detecting story, filled with wonderful ghost puns, humor, and detective work, mixed in with overcoming grief, moving on, and trying to stay alive.
Abby gets stuck in a haunted mansion when she comes to pick up her childhood best friend, Lucas, in a storm that makes it so she can't leave. Here, she gets attacked by what she believes is a ghost. To prove that she's not going crazy and the house is in fact haunted, she goes to a local ghost-hunting man's house and he gives her his ghost-hunting equipment. We are also made aware that Abby lost her girlfriend Chelsea from the beginning, but when the ghosts become apparent, she thinks about her past love more and more. (This is a mystery in itself because we don't know how she died until near the end of the book.)
Back at the house, Lucas's (bridezilla) sister is getting married, so there are several other characters including Michelle, her friend that she's not happy is around, Mina (who also happens to make Abby's heart pound in the best ways, and has a slightly grumpy attitude because she filled with grief of her own), the sister-in-law/bridesmaid, Annabelle, the "roommate" of the house owner, Sandra, eventually the house owner, Mrs. Kennsington, and of course a bunch of ghosts.
The whole premise of the book is to find out who attacked Abby, but when Mrs. Kennsington arrives back at the mansion, it becomes. more of who is trying to murder Mrs. Kennsington, and can they be stopped before they actually murder her? I figured it out before it was revealed, but it didn't make the story less intriguing.
This is not a romance book, but there is a subplot of Abby's growing feelings for Mina, and of course, overcoming her own grief with the loss of her childhood girlfriend.
This was a well-written book, I absolutely enjoyed it. Thank you to Morgan Spellman for a copy of the ebook. This review is left voluntarily.
January 7, 2024
Say I Boo is a fun cozy paranormal mystery with slow burn sapphic romance elements. I will definitely read more in this series. I have been wanting more queer cozy mysteries and I am glad to start seeing more coming out.
Abby is a 28 year old woman who, according to everyone else’s input, is not doing well. Job hopping, roommate hopping, etc. But when she makes a trip to pick up her best friend, Lucas, they get snowed in at the gorgeous mansion his sister is getting married at — with a murderously inclined ghost. And her quick thinking and knack for reading people comes in handy.
The mystery was really “keeps your on your toes” in that it was a Prevent A Murder. Lots of mishaps and accidents. The essential skeptical characters and shenanigans from amateur ghost hunter. It was a lot of fun.
One thing I did have a difficult time with was the central best friendship. Especially with the way Lucas treated Abby. But at the same time, since we only get Abby’s POV, there is probably more to it. And I feel like Abby was also immature in her handling of her relationships in general, so could see why Lucas was frustrated at times.
Now I do absolutely concede that grief affects people differently and relationships can change. So I understand why it happened and was written very well, it just also hurt to read, personally.
Lastly, the hinted romance between Abby and Mina is something I am hoping will be seen more of in the sequel that comes out in February. I like the pining in this one and love any time I get sapphic angst.
If you like cozy mysteries with paranormal elements, sapphic rep and eventual romance, unique ghost hunting/hunting, this is a fun one to read.
Abby is a 28 year old woman who, according to everyone else’s input, is not doing well. Job hopping, roommate hopping, etc. But when she makes a trip to pick up her best friend, Lucas, they get snowed in at the gorgeous mansion his sister is getting married at — with a murderously inclined ghost. And her quick thinking and knack for reading people comes in handy.
The mystery was really “keeps your on your toes” in that it was a Prevent A Murder. Lots of mishaps and accidents. The essential skeptical characters and shenanigans from amateur ghost hunter. It was a lot of fun.
One thing I did have a difficult time with was the central best friendship. Especially with the way Lucas treated Abby. But at the same time, since we only get Abby’s POV, there is probably more to it. And I feel like Abby was also immature in her handling of her relationships in general, so could see why Lucas was frustrated at times.
Now I do absolutely concede that grief affects people differently and relationships can change. So I understand why it happened and was written very well, it just also hurt to read, personally.
Lastly, the hinted romance between Abby and Mina is something I am hoping will be seen more of in the sequel that comes out in February. I like the pining in this one and love any time I get sapphic angst.
If you like cozy mysteries with paranormal elements, sapphic rep and eventual romance, unique ghost hunting/hunting, this is a fun one to read.
June 26, 2025
LOVE IT
4.5 stars rounded up.
I’m super happy that I got introduced to this author and the Abby Spector series through book 3 (I did an ARC review). I was definitely right that reading from the beginning would sweeten up the characters and bring more understanding.
I love the pacing of this novel; I was genuinely never bored. It has enough drama to keep me hooked, and the mystery was entertaining. For this one, I will say I did figure out who the would-be-murderous-ghost was, but I was happy to have the motive explained.
The reveal that ghosts exist was ADORABLE too. I love Abby with her persistent positivity and youthful spirit. Sometimes I can see why other characters get annoyed, but she’s so fun to me. The banter between the characters was also very authentic.
The only reason I got off half a star was my wish for a better resolution between Abby and Lucas. It felt too easy? Lucas is a duck for a lot of the book, but they never talk about what’s going on with their friendship. It’s just odd to me that all the other relationships had this great depth and emotional growth (mothers and their daughters, woof), but the best friend duo was mostly built on… I’m not sure.
Also… LOVE the little surprise at the end (not the sapphic one, but I don’t want to spoil)! How clever was that. I was so focused on the main story, I didn’t even think about that fateful beginning meeting.
4.5 stars rounded up.
I’m super happy that I got introduced to this author and the Abby Spector series through book 3 (I did an ARC review). I was definitely right that reading from the beginning would sweeten up the characters and bring more understanding.
I love the pacing of this novel; I was genuinely never bored. It has enough drama to keep me hooked, and the mystery was entertaining. For this one, I will say I did figure out who the would-be-murderous-ghost was, but I was happy to have the motive explained.
The reveal that ghosts exist was ADORABLE too. I love Abby with her persistent positivity and youthful spirit. Sometimes I can see why other characters get annoyed, but she’s so fun to me. The banter between the characters was also very authentic.
The only reason I got off half a star was my wish for a better resolution between Abby and Lucas. It felt too easy? Lucas is a duck for a lot of the book, but they never talk about what’s going on with their friendship. It’s just odd to me that all the other relationships had this great depth and emotional growth (mothers and their daughters, woof), but the best friend duo was mostly built on… I’m not sure.
Also… LOVE the little surprise at the end (not the sapphic one, but I don’t want to spoil)! How clever was that. I was so focused on the main story, I didn’t even think about that fateful beginning meeting.
January 7, 2024
A cozy mystery, but had some parts that I didn't like. Abby Spector heads to pick up her friend and finds herself in the midst of a wedding that is being derailed by a homicidal ghost. Abby and Lucas slowly convince others of the ghosts existence and yet to get to the booting of the multiple attempted murders.
I really enjoyed the cozy mystery aspect of this book. It was relatively low stakes and didn't make you worried about what was lurking in the dark. About 40% of the way in, the culprit was obvious to me and having to read through the elimination of suspects that made no sense was mind numbing.
My main issue is I found the main character absolutely insufferable to be inside the head of. The relationship between her and her best friend is rocky from the start for no discernable reason. It was like they were two people who were acquaintances that got thrown back together instead of supposed "best friends".
There were random pop culture references thrown in as if the main character was trying to be funny or relatable, but everyone else in the scene was annoyed by it, which made me be annoyed by it. Abby was written with no one on her side for the majority of the book, and it is painfully obvious to the reader in such a way that it made me want out too.
I think the bones of this book were good, and it probably is enjoyable for some people, but it made me cringe.
I really enjoyed the cozy mystery aspect of this book. It was relatively low stakes and didn't make you worried about what was lurking in the dark. About 40% of the way in, the culprit was obvious to me and having to read through the elimination of suspects that made no sense was mind numbing.
My main issue is I found the main character absolutely insufferable to be inside the head of. The relationship between her and her best friend is rocky from the start for no discernable reason. It was like they were two people who were acquaintances that got thrown back together instead of supposed "best friends".
There were random pop culture references thrown in as if the main character was trying to be funny or relatable, but everyone else in the scene was annoyed by it, which made me be annoyed by it. Abby was written with no one on her side for the majority of the book, and it is painfully obvious to the reader in such a way that it made me want out too.
I think the bones of this book were good, and it probably is enjoyable for some people, but it made me cringe.
August 4, 2023
Say I Boo is charming, sweet, cunning, and a little spooky. Abby Spector is the aptly named main character, a quirky and capricious young magician with a haunting past. The grief of lost love keeps her rooted to her younger years and unable to move forward, even when her best friend Lucas and other peers are tackling adult transitions all around her. But this grief also makes her uniquely equipped for the challenge of being confronted with the fact that ghosts are truly real when one suddenly attacks her at the old mansion where her best friend's sister is getting married. No sooner than she accepts her new reality, Abby enthusiastically if ill-advisedly undertakes her first paranormal whodunnit with the begrudging help of Lucas, a distractingly attractive stuntwoman named Mina, and several other eccentric characters--both living and dead.
While ghosts and the supernatural abound in this engaging mystery, Say I Boo shines a flashlight beam on the complex, sad, and beautiful aspects of lived experience also: from heartache, to growing up, to family conflict, to friendship, and to new beginnings. Accompanying Abby and company as they traverse these highs and lows is both moving and fantastically entertaining.
While ghosts and the supernatural abound in this engaging mystery, Say I Boo shines a flashlight beam on the complex, sad, and beautiful aspects of lived experience also: from heartache, to growing up, to family conflict, to friendship, and to new beginnings. Accompanying Abby and company as they traverse these highs and lows is both moving and fantastically entertaining.
October 31, 2023
Uff! What a read! 🥹
Loved this book from start to finish. The story grabbed me right at the beginning and kept me stranded until the last letter! (Even the authors note I read! And I never do!!!)
This follows Abby. Abby is an optimistic, cheerful person, always putting others happiness above hers and trying to help others. What we don’t know is that, she has ghosts of her own! This book talks about grief and is based on grieving, how u become it, how u go through it… and even tho that’s a “hard” subject, the author also manage to lighten the book. Abby’s best friend just arrived in town for his sister wedding. Abby said she’d pick up his friend from where he was. Turns out that his friend is in this big old Mansion where is sister is getting married. A storm hits and Abby and her best friend stay in the Mansion. Everything’s okay until Abby goes to sleep. In the middle of the night she’s attacked, by who u ask?! NON OTHER THAN A GHOST!!!! The story starts to pick up from there and ur never stops u from wanting to know more and be intrigued! Until 80% of the book I hadn’t figured out who the culprit was! Totally recommend this book! Especially if you’re in a reading slump, this reading is gonna be amazing! 🥹🤩
Loved this book from start to finish. The story grabbed me right at the beginning and kept me stranded until the last letter! (Even the authors note I read! And I never do!!!)
This follows Abby. Abby is an optimistic, cheerful person, always putting others happiness above hers and trying to help others. What we don’t know is that, she has ghosts of her own! This book talks about grief and is based on grieving, how u become it, how u go through it… and even tho that’s a “hard” subject, the author also manage to lighten the book. Abby’s best friend just arrived in town for his sister wedding. Abby said she’d pick up his friend from where he was. Turns out that his friend is in this big old Mansion where is sister is getting married. A storm hits and Abby and her best friend stay in the Mansion. Everything’s okay until Abby goes to sleep. In the middle of the night she’s attacked, by who u ask?! NON OTHER THAN A GHOST!!!! The story starts to pick up from there and ur never stops u from wanting to know more and be intrigued! Until 80% of the book I hadn’t figured out who the culprit was! Totally recommend this book! Especially if you’re in a reading slump, this reading is gonna be amazing! 🥹🤩
August 26, 2023
Say I Boo is officially out on September 12, 2023! Thanks to Morgan Spellman and Meadow Cat Press for sending me an ARC. This early review doesn’t affect my opinions on the book.
Abby Spector’s Ghost Mysteries will truly have a long way to go because it is the perfect lighthearted horror comedy that’s equally sapphic and spooky! This is a perfect read for fans of cozy horror films, and I know one when I see it.
Fall is coming soon, and everyone will be looking for the perfect TBR and I would absolutely recommend adding this because Spellman’s prose is very direct and fast-paced with adventure that it will not leave you hanging! The characters of Say I Boo have very great friendship dynamics and unique personalities that divulge the concept of ‘Are ghosts real?’ while remaining inherently human against the blaringly painful truths of life. And what I loved most about this book is that it was able to incorporate the elements of the supernatural to the feeling of tragedy and loss when our loved ones pass away and what it’s like to live with the bittersweet reality of grief and regret.
Abby Spector’s Ghost Mysteries will truly have a long way to go because it is the perfect lighthearted horror comedy that’s equally sapphic and spooky! This is a perfect read for fans of cozy horror films, and I know one when I see it.
Fall is coming soon, and everyone will be looking for the perfect TBR and I would absolutely recommend adding this because Spellman’s prose is very direct and fast-paced with adventure that it will not leave you hanging! The characters of Say I Boo have very great friendship dynamics and unique personalities that divulge the concept of ‘Are ghosts real?’ while remaining inherently human against the blaringly painful truths of life. And what I loved most about this book is that it was able to incorporate the elements of the supernatural to the feeling of tragedy and loss when our loved ones pass away and what it’s like to live with the bittersweet reality of grief and regret.
August 14, 2023
There's literally nothing not to enjoy about this book! From ghosts to a beautiful historied mansion, to queer love, repairing relationships, and processing old wounds, it's funny, deep, mysterious, and everything in between. If you're after a fun book with a happily ever after, ghosts and mystery, and some well-done personal arcs around the subject of moving on, this needs to be your next read!
Abby's heroics were always entertaining and her relationship with Lucas felt so real I was rooting for them so much! Mina has my entire heart and sweet Annabelle! All the characters had something going for them, even the ones we weren't meant to like got some redeeming arcs that tied up with a happily ever after for all involved (whatever that meant to each character).
The writing was perfect for this story, light and easy to breeze through, and heavy subjects were approached with emotion without becoming triggering or dwelling too much - it fit perfectly with Abby's personality and really felt like she was influencing the prose.
Abby's heroics were always entertaining and her relationship with Lucas felt so real I was rooting for them so much! Mina has my entire heart and sweet Annabelle! All the characters had something going for them, even the ones we weren't meant to like got some redeeming arcs that tied up with a happily ever after for all involved (whatever that meant to each character).
The writing was perfect for this story, light and easy to breeze through, and heavy subjects were approached with emotion without becoming triggering or dwelling too much - it fit perfectly with Abby's personality and really felt like she was influencing the prose.
September 6, 2023
A paranormal cozy mystery that feels like the perfect combination of Psych meets Supernatural and is set in a haunted house full of murderously quirky ghosts? 100% yes!!!
We follow Abby Spector - a magician and part time barista as she helps set up for her friends wedding. The issue? The wedding venue is totally haunted and this ghost means business! The other issue? There are so many ghosts haunting the property it’s impossible to narrow down who exactly has murderous intent and who is just simply existing in the afterlife! With the help of some handy dandy paranormal investigator gadgets it’s up to Abby and her friends to seek out the troublesome spirit and vanquish them all in time for the bride to walk down the isle!
Full of found family, all the spooky vibes, heartwarming stories, friendship, hilarious hijinks, a diverse cast, love, loss, ghosts and a mystery that will keep you guessing - Say I Boo is an excellent read and I can’t wait to see where the series goes from here!
Thank you so much to Morgan Spellman for the advanced copy!
We follow Abby Spector - a magician and part time barista as she helps set up for her friends wedding. The issue? The wedding venue is totally haunted and this ghost means business! The other issue? There are so many ghosts haunting the property it’s impossible to narrow down who exactly has murderous intent and who is just simply existing in the afterlife! With the help of some handy dandy paranormal investigator gadgets it’s up to Abby and her friends to seek out the troublesome spirit and vanquish them all in time for the bride to walk down the isle!
Full of found family, all the spooky vibes, heartwarming stories, friendship, hilarious hijinks, a diverse cast, love, loss, ghosts and a mystery that will keep you guessing - Say I Boo is an excellent read and I can’t wait to see where the series goes from here!
Thank you so much to Morgan Spellman for the advanced copy!
October 29, 2023
A fun little read! I really enjoyed the characters and diving into their lives and relationships (especially the relationship between Abby and Lucas), although at times I did find myself falling into assuming they were late teenagers rather than the 26 year olds they apparently are (not particularly helped by one of the ghosts literally referring to them as "adolescents")
I also really liked that Abby had experience with grief and was grappling with processing and moving on over a long period of time - something that felt very real and human, and not like a lot of media where characters tend to just put things in a box and move on once that particular story is told.
My only other gripe was with the reveal at the end... when they realise why they didn't work out who the ghost was, and it comes down to a pronunciation misunderstanding - maybe I'm just overlooking something obvious but I just can't figure out in my head how the two words could be confused...
But other than that, it was a really fun and engaging read, and I'm looking forward to book 2 next year!
I also really liked that Abby had experience with grief and was grappling with processing and moving on over a long period of time - something that felt very real and human, and not like a lot of media where characters tend to just put things in a box and move on once that particular story is told.
My only other gripe was with the reveal at the end... when they realise why they didn't work out who the ghost was, and it comes down to a pronunciation misunderstanding - maybe I'm just overlooking something obvious but I just can't figure out in my head how the two words could be confused...
But other than that, it was a really fun and engaging read, and I'm looking forward to book 2 next year!
October 1, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up
The core story was good and engaged me enough that I had to get to the end of the mystery, but the execution was a little lacking. The beginning was a little rough and I kind of felt like I'd been dumped into an already developing story. I liked the characters, but a few of them, especially the ghosts, kind of blended into each other. At some points it also felt like they were trying too hard to be witty and clever and it came across a little forced and stilted. I think a lot of the joking around would have worked better if the characters had been developed a little more, but they stayed a little flat, probably due to there being so many characters. Other parts did work well and I enjoyed the way the story wove together real life and the supernatural.
I'm not sure this cozy ghost mystery was exactly for me, but if you're wanting something that's just a little more goofy than spooky, this may be the book you're looking for.
The core story was good and engaged me enough that I had to get to the end of the mystery, but the execution was a little lacking. The beginning was a little rough and I kind of felt like I'd been dumped into an already developing story. I liked the characters, but a few of them, especially the ghosts, kind of blended into each other. At some points it also felt like they were trying too hard to be witty and clever and it came across a little forced and stilted. I think a lot of the joking around would have worked better if the characters had been developed a little more, but they stayed a little flat, probably due to there being so many characters. Other parts did work well and I enjoyed the way the story wove together real life and the supernatural.
I'm not sure this cozy ghost mystery was exactly for me, but if you're wanting something that's just a little more goofy than spooky, this may be the book you're looking for.
July 23, 2023
Thank you to Morgan for sending me an ARC of this book! I really enjoyed reading it! As a fan of Supernatural (the show) I felt as if I'd been transported into one of their classic, ghost busting episodes. This book was so fun, but also full of heart, and loss, and redemption. The cast of characters was great, their lives were so diverse. Some were more likeable than others, but such is life.
It was interesting to learn that the author based this book, and the main character, on her own journey through loss. It made the story that much more endearing.
I really like haunted manor tropes, they always have the most interesting and drama-filled family histories!
This book is releasing later in the summer, and, while it's set in winter, it'll make a perfect spooky Fall read!
It was interesting to learn that the author based this book, and the main character, on her own journey through loss. It made the story that much more endearing.
I really like haunted manor tropes, they always have the most interesting and drama-filled family histories!
This book is releasing later in the summer, and, while it's set in winter, it'll make a perfect spooky Fall read!
September 8, 2023
Perfect fall read for fans of the show Ghosts.
Abby Spector is a magician, but she's not going to magic her way out of a haunted house where a vengeful ghost threatens to ruin the wedding of Abby's best friend's sister.
Death and grief can be such heavy topics, and, while they're still treated respectfully, Spellman manages to bring levity to the paranormal mystery. This is a cool Sapphic story where romance isn't the focus of the plot. I liked the way the mystery was written and how the reader discovers things alongside Abby. The first half seemed a little bogged down by introducing all the different characters. By contrast, the second half was unputdownable!
Thanks so much to the author for an advanced copy!
Abby Spector is a magician, but she's not going to magic her way out of a haunted house where a vengeful ghost threatens to ruin the wedding of Abby's best friend's sister.
Death and grief can be such heavy topics, and, while they're still treated respectfully, Spellman manages to bring levity to the paranormal mystery. This is a cool Sapphic story where romance isn't the focus of the plot. I liked the way the mystery was written and how the reader discovers things alongside Abby. The first half seemed a little bogged down by introducing all the different characters. By contrast, the second half was unputdownable!
Thanks so much to the author for an advanced copy!
December 23, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Sometimes I think we’re the ones that have the hardest time moving on”
Preventing a Murder is hard, especially when all the suspects are dead.
- A diverse, sapphic lighthearted mystery with. Supernatural, Scooby-doo and Clue vibes
- This book just made me go ✨women✨
- Lovable side characters
- Rekindling friendships
- Overcoming grief and moving on
- A cat named Marie Antoinette
- Ghost binoculars, a salt gun, a ghost compass and a ghost dog? Count me in
Triggers: Death of a loved one, (mild) violence
Yes if:
- You like Supernatural or Scooby-doo
- You like humor, puns and witty banter
- You like a ghostly “murder” mystery
No if:
- You don’t like paranormal elements
- You don’t like books with modern technology
- You don’t like books dealing with grief
“Sometimes I think we’re the ones that have the hardest time moving on”
Preventing a Murder is hard, especially when all the suspects are dead.
- A diverse, sapphic lighthearted mystery with. Supernatural, Scooby-doo and Clue vibes
- This book just made me go ✨women✨
- Lovable side characters
- Rekindling friendships
- Overcoming grief and moving on
- A cat named Marie Antoinette
- Ghost binoculars, a salt gun, a ghost compass and a ghost dog? Count me in
Triggers: Death of a loved one, (mild) violence
Yes if:
- You like Supernatural or Scooby-doo
- You like humor, puns and witty banter
- You like a ghostly “murder” mystery
No if:
- You don’t like paranormal elements
- You don’t like books with modern technology
- You don’t like books dealing with grief
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews