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Epitaph #1
Epitaph
“Crazy Amy” Benson has an unusual talent for hearing epitaphs as the dead pass on. The men she dates who aren’t unnerved by her ability are usually scared off by Amy’s brothers. When reporter Kevin McCormick shows up to do a story at the cemetery, Amy tells him his dead sister is calling for justice, except Kevin’s sister died in an accident.
Kevin relays Amy’s odd message to his family and unleashes a killer. While Kevin strives to be an investigative reporter, he doesn’t anticipate his first opportunity will focus on the murders of his own family. Now he has to protect the alluring epitaph writer while hunting for evidence against the killer.
Kevin relays Amy’s odd message to his family and unleashes a killer. While Kevin strives to be an investigative reporter, he doesn’t anticipate his first opportunity will focus on the murders of his own family. Now he has to protect the alluring epitaph writer while hunting for evidence against the killer.
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Published January 10, 2017
98 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
About the author
Karla Brandenburg
36 books156 followersKarla Brandenburg is an award-winning author of contemporary romance novels which include paranormal elements. Now that her children have settled into lives of their own, she loves to go out into the world on adventures with her husband, from Milwaukee to the French Riviera, but the Chicago suburbs have always been “home.” She is an avid reader across multiple genres and is a card-carrying cookie-holic (we all have our vices). Sign up for her newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
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May 12, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (5/12/2018)!💝
November 10, 2019
I loved this book, even though it was totally not what I was expecting when I downloaded it. I was thinking something along the lines of cozy paranormal mystery. And that's probably my mistake. This is totally romantic suspense with a supernatural bent to it. And being a big fan of romantic suspense over the years, lemme tell ya, this gal has got the chops for it. The supernatural just added an extra yummy element. It did turn out a bit spicy on the romance side for my tastes, but I have weird tastes, so I'm not shorting this any stars for it. Like I said, I loved it and I would choose it again.
February 5, 2017
This is a book where someone with special abilities is thought of as crazy. Wouldn't happen today right? She reads tombstones and it's like those that have passed give here the epitaph. Then a reporter enters her life and he's doing a story for Halloween. He leaves and she thinks that it is only someone else that thinks she's crazy. But he comes back and then everything goes haywire. Apparently, the reporter's sister's death was not an accident. But who did it and why? Read and find out how an epitaph and the sister screaming for revenge from the other world leads to a killer. Great story. I really enjoyed it
December 11, 2017
"Crazy Amy" hears epitaphs from the dead. Her family works by the graveyard, so it’s easy to keep her secret, and to benefit from it. But Amy’s not in this for money, and she’d love to have a normal life.
When reporter Kevin interviews Amy, she tells him his sister’s calling out for justice. But Kevin’s sister died in an accident. Why would he reopen an old investigation, and old wounds? But those wounds are going to be opened anyway. Incautious words of the living are as dangerous as those of the dead, and someone’s out to silence any witnesses, real or imagined—or psychic.
Kevin falls for Amy. Amy’s brothers protect her. And pleasing humor lends a light touch to a fast-flowing dangerous adventure, making Epitaph an enjoyable paranormal romantic suspense and a great start to a series. As natural with human technology as with spiritual strangeness, the writing’s fast and clear, the protagonists are fun, the characters are intriguing, and the danger is well-contained.
Disclosure: I was given an ecopy and I offer my honest review.
When reporter Kevin interviews Amy, she tells him his sister’s calling out for justice. But Kevin’s sister died in an accident. Why would he reopen an old investigation, and old wounds? But those wounds are going to be opened anyway. Incautious words of the living are as dangerous as those of the dead, and someone’s out to silence any witnesses, real or imagined—or psychic.
Kevin falls for Amy. Amy’s brothers protect her. And pleasing humor lends a light touch to a fast-flowing dangerous adventure, making Epitaph an enjoyable paranormal romantic suspense and a great start to a series. As natural with human technology as with spiritual strangeness, the writing’s fast and clear, the protagonists are fun, the characters are intriguing, and the danger is well-contained.
Disclosure: I was given an ecopy and I offer my honest review.
November 19, 2017
Amy works in her family monument shop. She is the one who writes the epitaphs with the help of his special ability.
Kevin is a journalist and he has to interview the people running the business of the monument shop for a Halloween edition. His little sister died a year ago and when Amy tells him her sister were asking for justice, all the hell breaks loose upon them both.
The story flows nicely, it is well-written and the characters are well-developed. A love story with a crime to solve full of suspense that made me nearly bite my nails. The book is a wonderful reading, full of intrigue that kept me on edge till the very last page.
It is a book where everybody can find something to his or her liking: romance, intrigue, mystery, a paranormal twist….
I really liked the book and that is why I rated it with five stars.
I voluntarily reviewed a gifted copy given to me by Story Cartel.
Kevin is a journalist and he has to interview the people running the business of the monument shop for a Halloween edition. His little sister died a year ago and when Amy tells him her sister were asking for justice, all the hell breaks loose upon them both.
The story flows nicely, it is well-written and the characters are well-developed. A love story with a crime to solve full of suspense that made me nearly bite my nails. The book is a wonderful reading, full of intrigue that kept me on edge till the very last page.
It is a book where everybody can find something to his or her liking: romance, intrigue, mystery, a paranormal twist….
I really liked the book and that is why I rated it with five stars.
I voluntarily reviewed a gifted copy given to me by Story Cartel.
July 17, 2021
I just finished reading this Book and WOW! Kevin McCormick meets Amy Benson and almost immediately, their chemistry is off the CHARTS! Amy has a gift for writing Epitaphs and Kevin is a Reporter doing a story on the Benson Family Legacy. Kevin is extremely interested in Amy’s special gift, the more he chats with her, as well as her vision of Kevin’s dead sister Mary. How did Mary die?There is something in this book for everyone. Romance, Mystery, Suspense, Family, Abuse, Murder and so much more. How the Author brings it all together is incredible! Another book by Karla Brandenburg that I couldn’t put down. If you haven’t already, please check out Karla Brandenburg’s books. She is so very talented and an expert on including every detail small or large. Pay attention so you don’t miss anything!
June 20, 2018
Awesome unique mystery
Amy's job is an unusual and unique one, for she writes epitaphs to put on tombstones. A reporter doing a write-up for Halloween about tombstones, graveyard, and the dead and a small town. He is attracted to Amy, who dead sister a screaming for justice.
The characters are unique, sometimes funny as they solve the mystery of what happened to the reporter's dead sister. The plot itself is so unusual, with its twists and turns that keeps you on the edge of your seat reading this until the end. Highly recommended for this reader who won something beyond the scope of pure entertainment.
This is the first time that I read a book from this author I will be at be buying the sequel that follows.
bookwormsuzy
Amy's job is an unusual and unique one, for she writes epitaphs to put on tombstones. A reporter doing a write-up for Halloween about tombstones, graveyard, and the dead and a small town. He is attracted to Amy, who dead sister a screaming for justice.
The characters are unique, sometimes funny as they solve the mystery of what happened to the reporter's dead sister. The plot itself is so unusual, with its twists and turns that keeps you on the edge of your seat reading this until the end. Highly recommended for this reader who won something beyond the scope of pure entertainment.
This is the first time that I read a book from this author I will be at be buying the sequel that follows.
bookwormsuzy
July 19, 2018
The family-owned monument shop is known for the hallmark epitaphs they provide, and it is Kevin's job as a reporter to write on their special trade for an article for one of the newspaper's Halloween editions. It is the daughter, Amy, who takes him on a cemetery walk and explains that the dead whisper to her what they want engraved on their headstones. There is much disbelief in Kevin's eyes and Amy can imagine him joining the others who call her "Crazy Amy." That is until she tells him the deceased person under one gravestone, minus an epitaph, calls to her, asking for justice. The grave belongs to Kevin's sister, who died in a fall the year before. If it was an accident, why would she need justice?
Paranormal, hot romance, action and suspense rolled into one engaging story.
Paranormal, hot romance, action and suspense rolled into one engaging story.
April 28, 2020
I have never read anything like this before, and I loved it!
Amy hears the dead. She knows exactly what they want to be put on their headstones. When Kevin comes to do a story on her family business of making grave markers, she finds out that he's the brother of one woman buried in the cemetery. This woman constantly talks to Amy. She wants justice. When Amy tells Kevin about his sister's wishes, a series of events unfold to put both of them in danger.
This book was so good. I've read my share of paranormal romance novels, but this one is definitely unique. I have never read anything quite like this. Amy is such an amazing character. She knows who she is and isn't afraid to be that. She also isn't one to change herself for a man. Kevin is great as well. He accepts who Amy is, after being convinced she isn't joking. They both want to be so careful with the other and it was so refreshing. This book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time and I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Jane Oppenheimer did a wonderful job with the narration on this audiobook. Her portrayal of all the characters was perfect and fit the story perfectly. Her narration pulled me into the story and kept me there.
*I received a copy of this audiobook from Audiobook Obsession in exchange for an honest review*
Amy hears the dead. She knows exactly what they want to be put on their headstones. When Kevin comes to do a story on her family business of making grave markers, she finds out that he's the brother of one woman buried in the cemetery. This woman constantly talks to Amy. She wants justice. When Amy tells Kevin about his sister's wishes, a series of events unfold to put both of them in danger.
This book was so good. I've read my share of paranormal romance novels, but this one is definitely unique. I have never read anything quite like this. Amy is such an amazing character. She knows who she is and isn't afraid to be that. She also isn't one to change herself for a man. Kevin is great as well. He accepts who Amy is, after being convinced she isn't joking. They both want to be so careful with the other and it was so refreshing. This book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time and I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Jane Oppenheimer did a wonderful job with the narration on this audiobook. Her portrayal of all the characters was perfect and fit the story perfectly. Her narration pulled me into the story and kept me there.
*I received a copy of this audiobook from Audiobook Obsession in exchange for an honest review*
June 24, 2018
Epitaph is a fantastic paranormal murder mystery intertwined with a bit of romance. The characters are great and easy to relate to in this fast-paced thriller. I very much enjoyed this novel and look forward to reading more from this author.
July 15, 2018
Good book
I really enjoyed this book. It had just the right amount of paranormal for me. I got this book free from a site that daily sends newsletters of free books 'for the day' and plan to buy the rest of the series unless some become free, of course!
I really enjoyed this book. It had just the right amount of paranormal for me. I got this book free from a site that daily sends newsletters of free books 'for the day' and plan to buy the rest of the series unless some become free, of course!
October 27, 2024
Epitaph: Small Town Romance - Book 1
Intriguing start to a series about ghosts, clairaudience and small town life.
The characters were easily relatable and the story unfolded at a brisk pace. Some adult content.
No editing errors were found.
Highly recommend.
Intriguing start to a series about ghosts, clairaudience and small town life.
The characters were easily relatable and the story unfolded at a brisk pace. Some adult content.
No editing errors were found.
Highly recommend.
June 24, 2018
EPITAPH
Couldn't put the book down. Best book I've read in at least two weeks. I think this will be one for at least one re-read.
Couldn't put the book down. Best book I've read in at least two weeks. I think this will be one for at least one re-read.
July 8, 2018
GREAT Book!
This is a fantastic book! Easy to read and follow. With an exciting line of character. You will absolutely love this book!
This is a fantastic book! Easy to read and follow. With an exciting line of character. You will absolutely love this book!
August 19, 2018
Loved this book
I Could not put it down. It has everything you want inside these pages, murder, mystery, romance and fantasy...loved it
I Could not put it down. It has everything you want inside these pages, murder, mystery, romance and fantasy...loved it
September 11, 2018
I love this & I can't wait for more.
I will be also leaving a review on Goodreads @ Amazon.
And letting everyone know about it.
So i gave it a 5 Stars.
I will be also leaving a review on Goodreads @ Amazon.
And letting everyone know about it.
So i gave it a 5 Stars.
June 25, 2018
Messages From Beyond
I loved this book because the characters were likeable, and the plot was interesting! A woman shares epitaph with people and gets caught up in a mystery.
I loved this book because the characters were likeable, and the plot was interesting! A woman shares epitaph with people and gets caught up in a mystery.
May 28, 2020
This was not what I was expecting, it was so much more. A very interesting storyline with good strong characters. I great “who done it “. Great performance.
#audiobookobsessionreviewer
#audiobookobsessionreviewer
January 10, 2017
So I received an ARC copy of this book all thoughts are my own. I totally loved the book I felt like the characters are likeable and able to be connected to well. The story was full of twist and turns and pulled at your soul. My heart went out to Kevin as he tried to make his way through the tangled web. As the characters had to deal with the danger the also had to deal with the feels that they started to develop for each other yet another struggle to over come. In the end it was happy I would read again just because.
February 5, 2017
loved this book
i really enjoyed this book. The story moved at a good pace and kept my interest. Sometimes authors seem to rush to the conclusion but this one moved at a comfortable pace. The characters were believable even with all their human flaws. This author crafts a well written story.
i really enjoyed this book. The story moved at a good pace and kept my interest. Sometimes authors seem to rush to the conclusion but this one moved at a comfortable pace. The characters were believable even with all their human flaws. This author crafts a well written story.
April 14, 2020
A pleasant paranormal story
Karla Brandenburg has penned a series of paranormal stories which started with Epitaph. I enjoyed the gentle story of Any who talks to the dead and provides epitaphs for clients in her families monument business. Enter Kevin, a local reporter looking for another human interest story. Sparks fly with these two. But with her over protective brothers and his dubious family as well as why she sensed a mystery with Kevin's deceased sister will the sparks fizzle or ignite? Lots of twists and turns to keep the pages turning. I'm already into the second in this series.
Karla Brandenburg has penned a series of paranormal stories which started with Epitaph. I enjoyed the gentle story of Any who talks to the dead and provides epitaphs for clients in her families monument business. Enter Kevin, a local reporter looking for another human interest story. Sparks fly with these two. But with her over protective brothers and his dubious family as well as why she sensed a mystery with Kevin's deceased sister will the sparks fizzle or ignite? Lots of twists and turns to keep the pages turning. I'm already into the second in this series.
August 24, 2018
Wonderfully unique
I Loved this story. Amy's special gift is unique and quite lovely. As someone who thinks a walk in a cemetery is peaceful, I could relate to her emotional ties and her family business. Her reluctance to expose her gift to the writer was an honest expression . Along comes Kevin who tangles her up emotionally and physically , and I felt it refreshing to read about a man who actually shows emotion in a real manner.
I loved the neighbor, and honestly can't wait to read the second story!
I Loved this story. Amy's special gift is unique and quite lovely. As someone who thinks a walk in a cemetery is peaceful, I could relate to her emotional ties and her family business. Her reluctance to expose her gift to the writer was an honest expression . Along comes Kevin who tangles her up emotionally and physically , and I felt it refreshing to read about a man who actually shows emotion in a real manner.
I loved the neighbor, and honestly can't wait to read the second story!
January 21, 2017
What a sweet, sweet story this was. As a firm believer in the afterlife and that our departed loved ones look out for us, this story of the interconnection between a brother, a murdered sister, and a girl with a supernatural gift was enough to keep me turning pages til the end. Definitely recommended.(I voluntarily reviewed this free advanced reader copy.)
January 10, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. This was a great book by Karla Brandenburg. It had lots of mystery and suspense. I loved the characters and the story and couldn't put it down. I definitely recommend.
May 18, 2020
This is the first book in the Epitaph Series, an amazing supernatural romance / romantic suspense! I loved Amy. She is a beautiful character, strong, and caring. Kevin is also a great character, supportive, and protective. I loved to follow them in their suspenseful journey. The supporting characters are great and intriguing. The storyline is suspenseful, and action packed, filled with mystery, intrigue, and twists and turns. Jane Oppenheimer did a great job with the narration. She has a beautiful voice, easy to understand. I enjoyed it, and I highly recommend it. Looking forward to listen to the next book in the Series, The Twins. #AudiobookObsession
May 30, 2020
For the most part I liked the story and found it to be unique, however there were some parts (the haunted house, the rushed relationship and the lack of protection) that seemed out of place. I would recommend this story to people who are interested in mixing paranormal elements with suspense. It is a stand alone novel with no cliffhanger.
I listened to the Audible version. This is the first book I've listened to narrated by Jane Oppenheimer and she did a great job with her performance.
#AudiobookObsession
I listened to the Audible version. This is the first book I've listened to narrated by Jane Oppenheimer and she did a great job with her performance.
#AudiobookObsession
April 11, 2018
I liked the characters and the beginning was fine too. I could buy the premise. But it got a bit over the top with adding the medium and seeing the ghosts.
June 23, 2018
very good
February 6, 2017
Epitaph. This book was interesting and surprising. I did not expect this book to go the way it did. Amy has special abilities that allows her to hear the last thoughts of people who die. When she tells Kevin, he is not sure what to think. Amy told Kevin about his sister's last thought. When they tell his family they can't believe it. But somebody believes that Amy knows something about Mary's death. Amy and Kevin are being stalked and in danger. With the help of Mrs. Sumner they found out who was after them and succeed in finding justice for Mary. Through it all Kevin and Amy find love. Good read! I can't wait to read book 2. *** I voluntarily read a Review Copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else’s. ***
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews