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Happily Everlasting World #1
Dead Man Talking
Welcome to Everlasting, Maine, where there's no such thing as normal.
Meteorologist Zoe Parker put Everlasting in her rearview mirror as soon as she had her college degree in hand. But when Sapphire, her eccentric great-aunt, takes a tumble down the stairs in her lighthouse home, Zoe returns to the tiny fishing hamlet to look after her. Zoe has barely crossed the county line when strange things start happening with the weather, and she discovers Sapphire’s fall was no accident. Someone is searching the lighthouse but Sapphire has no idea what they’re looking for. Determined to ensure her aunt’s ongoing safety, Zoe promises to expose the intruders, even though it means staying in Everlasting and confronting the past she thought she’d put behind her.
Dane Stanton never expected to see Zoe standing in the middle of her aunt’s living room, and was even more unprepared for the flood of emotion he experiences when coming face to face with his old flame. Zoe is just as independent and determined as he remembered, and Dane knows she won’t rest until Sapphire can return to the lighthouse in peace, so he offers to help her sort things out.
Armed with old legends, Sapphire’s ten cats, and a talking ghost, Zoe has to reconcile her feelings for Dane and embrace her destiny before it’s too late.
The secrets of Everlasting come to light and Penelope has to not only accept that things that go bump in the night are real, but apparently, she’s destined for a man who sprouts fur and has a bizarre obsession with fish sticks. Can they clear Penelope’s name and set aside their differences to find true love?
Meteorologist Zoe Parker put Everlasting in her rearview mirror as soon as she had her college degree in hand. But when Sapphire, her eccentric great-aunt, takes a tumble down the stairs in her lighthouse home, Zoe returns to the tiny fishing hamlet to look after her. Zoe has barely crossed the county line when strange things start happening with the weather, and she discovers Sapphire’s fall was no accident. Someone is searching the lighthouse but Sapphire has no idea what they’re looking for. Determined to ensure her aunt’s ongoing safety, Zoe promises to expose the intruders, even though it means staying in Everlasting and confronting the past she thought she’d put behind her.
Dane Stanton never expected to see Zoe standing in the middle of her aunt’s living room, and was even more unprepared for the flood of emotion he experiences when coming face to face with his old flame. Zoe is just as independent and determined as he remembered, and Dane knows she won’t rest until Sapphire can return to the lighthouse in peace, so he offers to help her sort things out.
Armed with old legends, Sapphire’s ten cats, and a talking ghost, Zoe has to reconcile her feelings for Dane and embrace her destiny before it’s too late.
The secrets of Everlasting come to light and Penelope has to not only accept that things that go bump in the night are real, but apparently, she’s destined for a man who sprouts fur and has a bizarre obsession with fish sticks. Can they clear Penelope’s name and set aside their differences to find true love?
288 pages, ebook
First published October 10, 2017
1065 people are currently reading
2047 people want to read
About the author
Jana Deleon
101 books4,141 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Jana DeLeon was raised in southwest Louisiana among the bayous and gators. Her hometown is Carlyss, but you probably won't find it on a map. Her family owned a camp located on a bayou just off the Gulf of Mexico that you could only get there by boat. The most important feature was the rope hammock hanging in the shade on a huge deck that stretched out over the water where Jana spent many hours reading books.
Jana and her brother spent thousands of hours combing the bayous in a flat-bottom aluminum boat, studying the natural habitat of many birds, nutria and alligators. She would like you to know that no animals were injured during these "studies," but they kept makers of peroxide in business.
Jana has never stumbled across a mystery or a ghost like her heroines, but she's still hopeful.
She now resides in Dallas, Texas, with the most spoiled Sheltie in the world.
Jana and her brother spent thousands of hours combing the bayous in a flat-bottom aluminum boat, studying the natural habitat of many birds, nutria and alligators. She would like you to know that no animals were injured during these "studies," but they kept makers of peroxide in business.
Jana has never stumbled across a mystery or a ghost like her heroines, but she's still hopeful.
She now resides in Dallas, Texas, with the most spoiled Sheltie in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 320 reviews
May 8, 2018
Love the cover but found the book just okay. Don't mind me though, it gets amazingly good ratings from nearly everyone else!
There were things I really enjoyed like Cornelius the friendly ghost and those ten fantastic cats. The characters were all just fine too, although I found some of the dialogue a bit clunky and there was an awful lot of long winded explaining of events after they happened.
Cosy mysteries are not really my thing but I had hopes for this one set as it is in the magical town of Everlasting. Never mind. It was pleasant reading anyway.
There were things I really enjoyed like Cornelius the friendly ghost and those ten fantastic cats. The characters were all just fine too, although I found some of the dialogue a bit clunky and there was an awful lot of long winded explaining of events after they happened.
Cosy mysteries are not really my thing but I had hopes for this one set as it is in the magical town of Everlasting. Never mind. It was pleasant reading anyway.
November 18, 2017
I love, love, love a book that makes me smile. Even better is one that makes me laugh. Sapphire and her house full of potty-trained cats did just that. Now this dog-person (decidedly) wants her own pride of attack cats (especially the coon cat).
Dead Man Talking is a sweet, light romance with a paranormal spin and plenty of humor. Zoe Parker is a likable heroine. Dane Stanton is a yummy hero. And the ghost, apparently destined to spend eternity in his boxer shorts, is a wonderful comic foil.
Nathaniel Hawthorne is credited with the statement, “Easy reading is damn hard writing.” If that is true (it is), Ms. DeLeon wrote hard. Bravo.
Dead Man Talking is a sweet, light romance with a paranormal spin and plenty of humor. Zoe Parker is a likable heroine. Dane Stanton is a yummy hero. And the ghost, apparently destined to spend eternity in his boxer shorts, is a wonderful comic foil.
Nathaniel Hawthorne is credited with the statement, “Easy reading is damn hard writing.” If that is true (it is), Ms. DeLeon wrote hard. Bravo.
January 7, 2024
Cute, cozy-mystery with paranormal overtones. Of course, I love anything Jana Deleon writes, and this story is great with the quirky characters and off beat settings she does a wonderful job writing.
Zoe Parker couldn't wait to leave her hometown of Everlasting, Maine behind when she left for college. She also left behind Dane. She and Dane had differing views. He wanted nothing more than to stay in Everlasting and Zoe wanted to see the world, or at least someplace outside Everlasting. Zoe became a Meteorologist and settled on LA to pursue a career at a TV station and is slowly working her way up to a spot at the on-air talent. When her great-aunt, Sapphire, falls down the stairs in her restored lighthouse, Zoe is on the first plane back.
What she discovers is that Sapphire's fall was no accident and that someone was searching her home. Now, no one would believe Zoe, but her information came from a reliable source: the resident ghost, Sebastian. Even lifetime resident Dane Stanton has a tough time believing that. Together they have to figure out what the baddies are searching for and how to keep Sapphire safe. Oh, and what to do with all those old feelings that never died.
Zoe Parker couldn't wait to leave her hometown of Everlasting, Maine behind when she left for college. She also left behind Dane. She and Dane had differing views. He wanted nothing more than to stay in Everlasting and Zoe wanted to see the world, or at least someplace outside Everlasting. Zoe became a Meteorologist and settled on LA to pursue a career at a TV station and is slowly working her way up to a spot at the on-air talent. When her great-aunt, Sapphire, falls down the stairs in her restored lighthouse, Zoe is on the first plane back.
What she discovers is that Sapphire's fall was no accident and that someone was searching her home. Now, no one would believe Zoe, but her information came from a reliable source: the resident ghost, Sebastian. Even lifetime resident Dane Stanton has a tough time believing that. Together they have to figure out what the baddies are searching for and how to keep Sapphire safe. Oh, and what to do with all those old feelings that never died.
October 11, 2017
Dead Man Talking is the first in a new series (Happily Everlasting) which is starting out with 4 books, by 4 different authors, all stand alone reads set in the same town. Jana DeLeon is a new to me author, that I discovered BECAUSE this series contains a book written by Kristen Painter, but having read this one, I will definitely be on the look out for more of her stories.
Everlasting is one of those places you read about, and immediately want to move to. I am not sure I would want to live in the lighthouse, scratch that, I KNOW I wouldn't want to live in the lighthouse even with all the gorgeous renovations but I would definitely like to visit!
The story moves at a good pace, the mystery has a good twist to it (although I did manage to solve it before our book heroine did), with a nice little romance floating around in the background. As cozy mysteries go this is a good one and earns a 4 1/2 starts (rounded up to 5) from me!
V""V
October 24, 2017
what an utterly FABULOUS start to a new series - I loved this story. Zoe and Dale had to work hard to get to the end of the story, and I want a Cornelius in my life.
Magic, cats and a crazy aunt in a perfectly normal setting. What more can I ask for in a story.
Have book 2 ready to go - and books 3 and 4 preordered.
Magic, cats and a crazy aunt in a perfectly normal setting. What more can I ask for in a story.
Have book 2 ready to go - and books 3 and 4 preordered.
October 23, 2017
Welcome to Everlasting, Maine, where there's no such thing as normal.
Именно так начинается аннотация четырех книг четырех разных авторов, объединенных в серию The Happily Everlasting - об одном необычном городке и его крайне эксцентричных жителях. Мне в этом списке было знакомо всего одно имя - причем знакомо и любимо - потому хорошо, что именно Делеон начала серию, а то я могла и мимо пройти))
Дополнительным бонусом стал жанр всех четырех историй - Cozy Paranormal Mystery.
Это история Зои Паркер - метеоролога, которая сбежала из родного городка, сверкая пятками, едва закончила колледж. Теперь же вынуждена временно вернуться, ибо тетушка Сапфир свалилась с лестницы и ей и десятку ее кошек нужен уход. Вот только есть подозрение, что упасть тетушке помогли. И что кому-то что-то понадобилось в старом маяке, который Сапфир переделала под свой дом.
Зои ждет встреча с бывшим возлюбленным, очень активным призраком, кошачьими когтями и кое-чем еще.
Детективная линия мне очень понравилась. В меру запутанная, в меру простая, но увлекательная. Я оказалась чуть прозорливей героев, но не критично, и в тексте не было намеренных тупняков. И написано все легко, задорно, с юмором. А вот романтика, как ни пыталась автор ее обыграть, подкачала. Прошлое Зои и Дейна осталось размытым, нынешние отношения толком не развивались. Не ощутила я притяжения, увы. У тех же Фортуны с Картером в другой серии автора еще ничего не было, а уже искры летят, а тут...
В общем, имхо, без любовной составляющей роман бы только выиграл (сама не верю, что такое говорю XD). Но как бы там ни было, удовольствие от чтения получено, а потому 4 звезды.
Кажется, серия специально писалась к Хэллоуину, ибо книжки выходят 10, 17, 23 и 31 октября соответственно.
Так как остальных авторов не знаю, сомнений много, но... все же полистаю. Очень уж интересно, как они обыграют столь забавный городок и общих персонажей))
Именно так начинается аннотация четырех книг четырех разных авторов, объединенных в серию The Happily Everlasting - об одном необычном городке и его крайне эксцентричных жителях. Мне в этом списке было знакомо всего одно имя - причем знакомо и любимо - потому хорошо, что именно Делеон начала серию, а то я могла и мимо пройти))
Дополнительным бонусом стал жанр всех четырех историй - Cozy Paranormal Mystery.
Это история Зои Паркер - метеоролога, которая сбежала из родного городка, сверкая пятками, едва закончила колледж. Теперь же вынуждена временно вернуться, ибо тетушка Сапфир свалилась с лестницы и ей и десятку ее кошек нужен уход. Вот только есть подозрение, что упасть тетушке помогли. И что кому-то что-то понадобилось в старом маяке, который Сапфир переделала под свой дом.
Зои ждет встреча с бывшим возлюбленным, очень активным призраком, кошачьими когтями и кое-чем еще.
Детективная линия мне очень понравилась. В меру запутанная, в меру простая, но увлекательная. Я оказалась чуть прозорливей героев, но не критично, и в тексте не было намеренных тупняков. И написано все легко, задорно, с юмором. А вот романтика, как ни пыталась автор ее обыграть, подкачала. Прошлое Зои и Дейна осталось размытым, нынешние отношения толком не развивались. Не ощутила я притяжения, увы. У тех же Фортуны с Картером в другой серии автора еще ничего не было, а уже искры летят, а тут...
В общем, имхо, без любовной составляющей роман бы только выиграл (сама не верю, что такое говорю XD). Но как бы там ни было, удовольствие от чтения получено, а потому 4 звезды.
Кажется, серия специально писалась к Хэллоуину, ибо книжки выходят 10, 17, 23 и 31 октября соответственно.
Так как остальных авторов не знаю, сомнений много, но... все же полистаю. Очень уж интересно, как они обыграют столь забавный городок и общих персонажей))
October 8, 2017
This is a terrific book! I was instantly in love with with the town of Everlasting and the characters. I was thoroughly entertained, laughed out loud, and couldn’t put the book down. I hope there will be more in the future.
I received a copy of this book, my review has been voluntarily submitted.
I received a copy of this book, my review has been voluntarily submitted.
October 8, 2017
I would give this book 3 1/2 stars. It really just did not hook me, did not hold my attention and I had trouble staying interested in it. I did enjoy Cornelius the ghost. He did provide for some comical parts. Zoe and Dane, it was interesting to see them interact to solve a mystery but other than that.... meh it didn't really work.
This is my opinion. I know everyone will not agree, give it a read especially if you enjoy cozy mysteries. I look forward to reading other books by this author.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
This is my opinion. I know everyone will not agree, give it a read especially if you enjoy cozy mysteries. I look forward to reading other books by this author.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
August 11, 2020
Dead Man Talking by Jana Deleon was a cute paranormal cozy set in Everlasting, Maine. The characters are likeable and Zoe's Aunt Sapphire steals the scenes. There's mystery, a ghost, and a touch of romance that kept me turning the pages.
September 23, 2020
This is my second book by Jana Deleon (you can read my review of Wrong Side of Forty here) so I knew I was in for a hilariously good time. Dead Man Talking didn't disappoint!
Meteorologist Zoe has come back to Everlasting, Maine to help out after her aunt Sapphire takes a spill and ends up in the hospital. Zoe spent a good portion of her life in Everlasting with her quirky aunt living with her many cats in the lighthouse. She wanted to make something of herself and has spent many years of long days and nights attempting to climb the corporate ladder and prove herself as a meteorologist. She's still willing to drop everything (temporarily) for her aunt. What she didn't count on was Dane Stanton, former bf and the contractor who is revamping the lighthouse for her aunt. Zoe quickly realizes that there is more to her aunt's fall and foul play may be at work. But who would want to hurt her aunt and why would they be interested in the lighthouse? And can she stay away from Dane long enough to find out?
Dead Man Talking was so much fun. I love the town of Everlasting. All of the residents are so quirky, including her aunt Sapphire and her toilet trained cats. Zoe is extremely likeable, smart and capable, but isn't above asking for help from hunky Dane. He's an all around good guy and there's a lovely second chance romance waiting in the wings for them if they can get around their past. After all, it was Zoe's independence, drive and obstinance of leaving Everlasting that foiled their romance last time.
There's a ghost floating around the lighthouse as well, who Zoe finds out can only be seen by women and happens to be stuck wearing his boxers for eternity. He adds a light-hearted comic touch to the seriousness of what happened to Aunt Sapphire as they make sense of that night. Just one of the many oddities of Everlasting that Zoe has to come to grips with, including that her new/old beau sprouts fur!
On the downside, the romance really isn't as developed as I would like, and other than a sentence or two, there's really not much about their past relationship. The mystery is the true fun here along with the amusing paranormal townspeople. This was a super-fast read, well-paced, and a lot of fun.
Meteorologist Zoe has come back to Everlasting, Maine to help out after her aunt Sapphire takes a spill and ends up in the hospital. Zoe spent a good portion of her life in Everlasting with her quirky aunt living with her many cats in the lighthouse. She wanted to make something of herself and has spent many years of long days and nights attempting to climb the corporate ladder and prove herself as a meteorologist. She's still willing to drop everything (temporarily) for her aunt. What she didn't count on was Dane Stanton, former bf and the contractor who is revamping the lighthouse for her aunt. Zoe quickly realizes that there is more to her aunt's fall and foul play may be at work. But who would want to hurt her aunt and why would they be interested in the lighthouse? And can she stay away from Dane long enough to find out?
Dead Man Talking was so much fun. I love the town of Everlasting. All of the residents are so quirky, including her aunt Sapphire and her toilet trained cats. Zoe is extremely likeable, smart and capable, but isn't above asking for help from hunky Dane. He's an all around good guy and there's a lovely second chance romance waiting in the wings for them if they can get around their past. After all, it was Zoe's independence, drive and obstinance of leaving Everlasting that foiled their romance last time.
There's a ghost floating around the lighthouse as well, who Zoe finds out can only be seen by women and happens to be stuck wearing his boxers for eternity. He adds a light-hearted comic touch to the seriousness of what happened to Aunt Sapphire as they make sense of that night. Just one of the many oddities of Everlasting that Zoe has to come to grips with, including that her new/old beau sprouts fur!
On the downside, the romance really isn't as developed as I would like, and other than a sentence or two, there's really not much about their past relationship. The mystery is the true fun here along with the amusing paranormal townspeople. This was a super-fast read, well-paced, and a lot of fun.
October 9, 2017
Dead Man Talking by Jana DeLeon
First in the Happily Everlasting Paranormal cozy mystery series by different authors.
This book introduces the town of Everlasting. It seems there is something slightly magical going on there.
Aunt Sapphire’s accident and stay in the hospital forced Zoe to come home after years away working on her career in LA. After reconnecting with her old boyfriend and hearing about the unusual situation of the accident, Zoe is sure something more is going on this sleepy little town.
Strange enough that the cats are all potty trained, but when the ghost confirms intruders, it’s up to Zoe and Dane to figure out what’s going on.
My immediate concern was for the promising LA career. No spoilers, but suffice it to say, it worked out well in the telling.
Can’t wait to see how this series expands on the paranormal magic theme of Everlasting, Maine.
First in the Happily Everlasting Paranormal cozy mystery series by different authors.
This book introduces the town of Everlasting. It seems there is something slightly magical going on there.
Aunt Sapphire’s accident and stay in the hospital forced Zoe to come home after years away working on her career in LA. After reconnecting with her old boyfriend and hearing about the unusual situation of the accident, Zoe is sure something more is going on this sleepy little town.
Strange enough that the cats are all potty trained, but when the ghost confirms intruders, it’s up to Zoe and Dane to figure out what’s going on.
My immediate concern was for the promising LA career. No spoilers, but suffice it to say, it worked out well in the telling.
Can’t wait to see how this series expands on the paranormal magic theme of Everlasting, Maine.
October 28, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. Very well written and all likable main characters. Just wish the ghost had a bigger part in the story. Otherwise, looking forward to seeing more books on this series.
June 10, 2021
Cute romantic mystery! A ghost and a bit of magic!
October 2, 2017
I received a free ARC copy of this book for review, and here it is. This a great book to a 4 part series by different authors. A bit of magic and mystery with a twist of events that make you feel like you are part of the story. Characters are amazing and it never hurts to have a little bit of romance fall in between. Looking forward to the next book written in this Everlasting series.
October 1, 2017
The first in a series of books that take place in a town called Everlasting. I really enjoyed this first story of a lighthouse, magic and mystery. Light, fun and romantic, we join Zoe who comes back to take care of her aunt only to find herself in the middle of a mystery that started a very long time ago. Loved the plot and characters. I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.
October 11, 2017
Zoe left Everlasting (and her ex) in her rear view mirror. She wanted the big city, big career and nothing, not even her love for Dane, was getting in her way.
Fast forward a few years and the big career is only one promotion away but when her aunt Sapphire hurts herself in a fall, she finds herself back in Everlasting. She finds Dane doing the renovations to her aunts Lighthouse home and all those pesky feelings for him come rushing right back!
Add in a friendly ghost, Cornelius, in a weird state of dress, and a small town filled with cooky residents and you have yourself a winner! Zoe and Dane are really lovely and I loved all the matchmaking from Sapphire and Everlasting itself! The cats are also scene stealers!
I can't wait to see what happens to the residents next!
Fast forward a few years and the big career is only one promotion away but when her aunt Sapphire hurts herself in a fall, she finds herself back in Everlasting. She finds Dane doing the renovations to her aunts Lighthouse home and all those pesky feelings for him come rushing right back!
Add in a friendly ghost, Cornelius, in a weird state of dress, and a small town filled with cooky residents and you have yourself a winner! Zoe and Dane are really lovely and I loved all the matchmaking from Sapphire and Everlasting itself! The cats are also scene stealers!
I can't wait to see what happens to the residents next!
June 17, 2018
First read by this author. First in a series of four ( each book is by a different author )
The books in this series feature the magincal town of everlasting. Ghosts, shifters, witches...you'd better believe it.
Firstly...UNLEASH THE BEASTS!! 😂😂😂
I liked this funny sweet romance, there were moments of great comedy with lovely sparks of great romance.
Zoe and Dane were great ( slow burn second chance at love ) but for me aunt sapphire stole the show! She rawks!
Along with the overall suspense and mystery of the story... a great way to spend an afternoon.
ARC GIVEN IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.
The books in this series feature the magincal town of everlasting. Ghosts, shifters, witches...you'd better believe it.
Firstly...UNLEASH THE BEASTS!! 😂😂😂
I liked this funny sweet romance, there were moments of great comedy with lovely sparks of great romance.
Zoe and Dane were great ( slow burn second chance at love ) but for me aunt sapphire stole the show! She rawks!
Along with the overall suspense and mystery of the story... a great way to spend an afternoon.
ARC GIVEN IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.
January 25, 2020
What a wonderful beginning to a new series. I enjoyed the characters and I loved the mystery. A good story about Everlasting and the people who populate it. The mystery has a good and surprising ending.
April 6, 2018
Heavy on the mystery and light on the romance for my taste, but your mileage may vary.
August 24, 2020
This is my second book by Jana Deleon (you can read my review of Wrong Side of Forty here) so I knew I was in for a hilarious good time. Dead Man Talking didn't disappoint!
Meteorologist Zoe has come back to Everlasting, Maine to help out after her aunt Sapphire takes a spill and ends up in the hospital. Zoe spent a good portion of her life in Everlasting with her quirky aunt living with her many cats in the lighthouse. She wanted to make something of herself and has spent many years of long days and nights attempting to climb the corporate ladder and prove herself as a meteorologist. She's still willing to drop everything (temporarily) for her aunt. What she didn't count on was Dane Stanton, former bf and the contractor who is revamping the lighthouse for her aunt. Zoe quickly realizes that there is more to her aunt's fall and foul play may be at work. But who would want to hurt her aunt and why would they be interested in the lighthouse? And can she stay away from Dane long enough to find out?
Dead Man Talking was so much fun. I love the town of Everlasting. All of the residents are so quirky, including her aunt Sapphire and her toilet trained cats. Zoe is extremely likeable, smart and capable, but isn't above asking for help from hunky Dane. He's an all around good guy and there's a lovely second chance romance waiting in the wings for them if they can get around their past. After all, it was Zoe's independence, drive and obstinance of leaving Everlasting that foiled their romance last time.
There's a ghost floating around the lighthouse as well, who Zoe finds out can only be seen by women and happens to be stuck wearing his boxers for eternity. He adds a light-hearted comic touch to the seriousness of what happened to Aunt Sapphire as they make sense of that night. Just one of the many oddities of Everlasting that Zoe has to come to grips with, including that her new/old beau sprouts fur!
On the down side, the romance really isn't as developed as I would like and other than a sentence or two, there's really not much about their past relationship. The mystery is the true fun here along with the amusing paranormal townspeople. This was a super fast read, well-paced, and a lot of fun.
Meteorologist Zoe has come back to Everlasting, Maine to help out after her aunt Sapphire takes a spill and ends up in the hospital. Zoe spent a good portion of her life in Everlasting with her quirky aunt living with her many cats in the lighthouse. She wanted to make something of herself and has spent many years of long days and nights attempting to climb the corporate ladder and prove herself as a meteorologist. She's still willing to drop everything (temporarily) for her aunt. What she didn't count on was Dane Stanton, former bf and the contractor who is revamping the lighthouse for her aunt. Zoe quickly realizes that there is more to her aunt's fall and foul play may be at work. But who would want to hurt her aunt and why would they be interested in the lighthouse? And can she stay away from Dane long enough to find out?
Dead Man Talking was so much fun. I love the town of Everlasting. All of the residents are so quirky, including her aunt Sapphire and her toilet trained cats. Zoe is extremely likeable, smart and capable, but isn't above asking for help from hunky Dane. He's an all around good guy and there's a lovely second chance romance waiting in the wings for them if they can get around their past. After all, it was Zoe's independence, drive and obstinance of leaving Everlasting that foiled their romance last time.
There's a ghost floating around the lighthouse as well, who Zoe finds out can only be seen by women and happens to be stuck wearing his boxers for eternity. He adds a light-hearted comic touch to the seriousness of what happened to Aunt Sapphire as they make sense of that night. Just one of the many oddities of Everlasting that Zoe has to come to grips with, including that her new/old beau sprouts fur!
On the down side, the romance really isn't as developed as I would like and other than a sentence or two, there's really not much about their past relationship. The mystery is the true fun here along with the amusing paranormal townspeople. This was a super fast read, well-paced, and a lot of fun.
December 20, 2017
Meteorologist Zoe Parker put Everlasting in her rearview mirror as soon as she had her college degree in hand. But when Sapphire, her eccentric great-aunt, takes a tumble down the stairs in her lighthouse home, Zoe returns to the tiny fishing hamlet to look after her. Zoe has barely crossed the county line when strange things start happening with the weather, and she discovers Sapphire’s fall was no accident. Someone is searching the lighthouse but Sapphire has no idea what they’re looking for. Determined to ensure her aunt’s ongoing safety, Zoe promises to expose the intruders, even though it means staying in Everlasting and confronting the past she thought she’d put behind her.
Dane Stanton never expected to see Zoe standing in the middle of her aunt’s living room, and was even more unprepared for the flood of emotion he experiences when coming face to face with his old flame. Zoe is just as independent and determined as he remembered, and Dane knows she won’t rest until Sapphire can return to the lighthouse in peace, so he offers to help her sort things out.
Armed with old legends, Sapphire’s ten cats, and a talking ghost, Zoe has to reconcile her feelings for Dane and embrace her destiny before it’s too late.
The secrets of Everlasting come to light and Penelope has to not only accept that things that go bump in the night are real, but apparently, she’s destined for a man who sprouts fur and has a bizarre obsession with fish sticks. Can they clear Penelope’s name and set aside their differences to find true love?
This is the first book in this series and i can telll you it amazed me.
Funny,cozy with lots of mystery and supernaturals to make me wanna curl up in bed and never leave.
Entertaining with well written characters and a very well done world building this series is something you definetly want to read.
I absolutely loved Penelope and Dane!
Dane Stanton never expected to see Zoe standing in the middle of her aunt’s living room, and was even more unprepared for the flood of emotion he experiences when coming face to face with his old flame. Zoe is just as independent and determined as he remembered, and Dane knows she won’t rest until Sapphire can return to the lighthouse in peace, so he offers to help her sort things out.
Armed with old legends, Sapphire’s ten cats, and a talking ghost, Zoe has to reconcile her feelings for Dane and embrace her destiny before it’s too late.
The secrets of Everlasting come to light and Penelope has to not only accept that things that go bump in the night are real, but apparently, she’s destined for a man who sprouts fur and has a bizarre obsession with fish sticks. Can they clear Penelope’s name and set aside their differences to find true love?
This is the first book in this series and i can telll you it amazed me.
Funny,cozy with lots of mystery and supernaturals to make me wanna curl up in bed and never leave.
Entertaining with well written characters and a very well done world building this series is something you definetly want to read.
I absolutely loved Penelope and Dane!
October 9, 2017
This was a mystery book, one that remind me of Agatha Christie kind of books. You know, heavy on the mystery, with little to none romance. So, if you pick the book with the premise of mystery story, then you’ll be satisfied. But if you hoped for a romance, you’ll be disappointed. Not that there’s no romance. It was there, but felt as a passing only.
The mystery story was great. Neat, full of twist and turn, kept me guessing and intrigued as many things I haven’t seen them coming. A really delightful experience. I would recommend this book to mystery lovers.
I was a bit disappointed though, as I was promised there’s clean romance with HEA inside. Well, there was. But as I mentioned above, the romance story was underdeveloped. I didn’t feel the connection between the two main characters. I have no idea what their past issues were, why their broke-up so hurtful, and I simply didn’t feel for them. At the end, I cared about who dunnit, but I didn’t really care whether Zoe and Dane got together or not.
I was provided a complementary copy by the author / publisher, but this in no way influenced my thoughts or opinions.
The mystery story was great. Neat, full of twist and turn, kept me guessing and intrigued as many things I haven’t seen them coming. A really delightful experience. I would recommend this book to mystery lovers.
I was a bit disappointed though, as I was promised there’s clean romance with HEA inside. Well, there was. But as I mentioned above, the romance story was underdeveloped. I didn’t feel the connection between the two main characters. I have no idea what their past issues were, why their broke-up so hurtful, and I simply didn’t feel for them. At the end, I cared about who dunnit, but I didn’t really care whether Zoe and Dane got together or not.
I was provided a complementary copy by the author / publisher, but this in no way influenced my thoughts or opinions.
December 18, 2020
After college, meteorologist Zoe Parker couldn't wait to put the her hometown of Everlasting, Maine behind her. She moves to Los Angeles and never looks back. But when her eccentric (aka crazy cat lady) aunt takes a tumble down the stairs, Zoe returns to Everlasting. But the lighthouse where she grew up has been invaded -- by her aunt's ten cats, her contractor ex-boyfriend (remodeling the kitchen), and frustrated ghost in a suit coat and boxer shorts. Not to mention the criminals who keep breaking in looking for the source of a local legend.
Dead Man Talking is absolutely adorable. Zoe is spunky and sweet, and handles the craziness with aplomb. Dane is caring and protective, but still respects Zoe's independence. Aunt Sapphire is a hoot. And the ghostly Cornelius is surprisingly kind and loyal (given that he didn't know any of these people before his death.
This is a really great, fun, cozy mystery.
Dead Man Talking is absolutely adorable. Zoe is spunky and sweet, and handles the craziness with aplomb. Dane is caring and protective, but still respects Zoe's independence. Aunt Sapphire is a hoot. And the ghostly Cornelius is surprisingly kind and loyal (given that he didn't know any of these people before his death.
This is a really great, fun, cozy mystery.
September 19, 2017
As will all my reviews there are no huge spoilers and no real story recap, I have pointed out a couple of things that happen/didn’t happen in the story to better explain. This is one of four books, all written by different authors, taking place in the town of Everlasting. I have read all four and there is no particular reading order and no hint that the other stories are going on in the same town. Each book is self-contained and can be read in any order.
This book is written in the third person with no explicit language or sexual scenes with a HEA ending. IMO: this story is a mystery with a touch of ‘second chance’ romance thrown in as an afterthought – I really wish there was none of the romance and it was just a mystery story, I will explain why below, but that is the reason I took one star from my rating.
The mystery solving starts from the beginning and the outcome is all the way at the end; it was not overly farfetched and I didn’t guess the “who” at all, that is abnormal for me and mostly indicates the talent of this writer. It moved along at a steady pace and was enjoyable throughout.
The romance, as it was, isn’t even really mentioned other than a few sentences here and there through inter monologue of the main people. The main couple hint that they want to explore old feelings and start up their relationship again and they share one kiss at a bad moment. In the end, you are left assuming they do rekindle but I never really got the chemistry feeling from the main couple nor does the story even really explain anything as to why they split and why it was so bad that Zoe never wanted to run into Dane again – mentioned the first time she meets up with him again in the beginning and explained in her reason for not returning the Everlasting to visit family. He wanted to stay in Everlasting and she wanted to move the CA to follow her dream… That’s it, really??? Nothing was developed between them, I felt no real sparks. It all felt pushed into the story to fill a quota or so it could have a tag as romance. The story would have been better just leaving out all the ‘romance’ if it wasn’t going to be fully explained, and it wouldn’t have taken that much to explain it. It didn’t take away from the main story at all, I just found it annoying in the end to suddenly have it mentioned and no real answers about it all.
All that said, Ms. Deleon is a talented writer and has a wonderful way with words. This story had a bit of humor along with believable interactions with all the characters (except the ‘romance’ part). The story stayed on point and progressed at a steady pace, though several parts seemed long winded and over written. I definitely recommend this book to anyone enjoying a good mystery.
This book is written in the third person with no explicit language or sexual scenes with a HEA ending. IMO: this story is a mystery with a touch of ‘second chance’ romance thrown in as an afterthought – I really wish there was none of the romance and it was just a mystery story, I will explain why below, but that is the reason I took one star from my rating.
The mystery solving starts from the beginning and the outcome is all the way at the end; it was not overly farfetched and I didn’t guess the “who” at all, that is abnormal for me and mostly indicates the talent of this writer. It moved along at a steady pace and was enjoyable throughout.
The romance, as it was, isn’t even really mentioned other than a few sentences here and there through inter monologue of the main people. The main couple hint that they want to explore old feelings and start up their relationship again and they share one kiss at a bad moment. In the end, you are left assuming they do rekindle but I never really got the chemistry feeling from the main couple nor does the story even really explain anything as to why they split and why it was so bad that Zoe never wanted to run into Dane again – mentioned the first time she meets up with him again in the beginning and explained in her reason for not returning the Everlasting to visit family. He wanted to stay in Everlasting and she wanted to move the CA to follow her dream… That’s it, really??? Nothing was developed between them, I felt no real sparks. It all felt pushed into the story to fill a quota or so it could have a tag as romance. The story would have been better just leaving out all the ‘romance’ if it wasn’t going to be fully explained, and it wouldn’t have taken that much to explain it. It didn’t take away from the main story at all, I just found it annoying in the end to suddenly have it mentioned and no real answers about it all.
All that said, Ms. Deleon is a talented writer and has a wonderful way with words. This story had a bit of humor along with believable interactions with all the characters (except the ‘romance’ part). The story stayed on point and progressed at a steady pace, though several parts seemed long winded and over written. I definitely recommend this book to anyone enjoying a good mystery.
November 9, 2017
A different read from Jana Deleon and I have to say I really enjoyed it. I love the quirky town of Everlasting, the lighthouse setting was inspired especially with the renovations happening, the mystery was good but I guessed it really early on but that didn't take away from the story for me as I was excited to keep reading to see if I was right...lol
Sapphire is gorgeous and such an eccentric sweetheart, Dane is a truly understanding man with the patience of a saint and I love how he follows his heart and never gave up. Zoe is an interesting character she is strong and independant but I also love how she goes after what she wants and even admits when she realises it was the wrong choice...lol
A great story.
Sapphire is gorgeous and such an eccentric sweetheart, Dane is a truly understanding man with the patience of a saint and I love how he follows his heart and never gave up. Zoe is an interesting character she is strong and independant but I also love how she goes after what she wants and even admits when she realises it was the wrong choice...lol
A great story.
December 9, 2017
Zoe Parker is working in Los Angeles at a news station. She is desperately waiting for a meteorologist spot to open up when she receives a call that her great-aunt Sapphire has taken a tumble down the stairs of her lighthouse. Zoe flies back to Everlasting, Maine to help her aunt but when she arrives strange things start happening with the weather- hail storms and lightning. To make things even more complicated her ex-love, Dane is working on fixing up the lighthouse. Zoe and Dane, with the help of the lighthouse's half-dressed ghost, Cornelius learn that Sapphire's fall was no accident, someone pushed her. They start poking around to find the real killer.
October 10, 2017
This is a good short story/ novella set in Kristen Painter's newly-created shared universe of Everlasting, Maine: a town with witches, shifters, ghosts and magic.
Zoe comes home from LA when her grandmother Sapphire ends up in the hospital with a concussion. Someone is trying to break into Sapphire's lighthouse; a ghost in a suit coat and boxers apparently lives there; Zoe's former flame is renovating it...and what is with the weird weather?
An enjoyable story, with interesting characters, in an unusual location!
Zoe comes home from LA when her grandmother Sapphire ends up in the hospital with a concussion. Someone is trying to break into Sapphire's lighthouse; a ghost in a suit coat and boxers apparently lives there; Zoe's former flame is renovating it...and what is with the weird weather?
An enjoyable story, with interesting characters, in an unusual location!
October 5, 2017
ARC - I voluntarily offered to review this book with no obligations and my opinions are honest!
Zoe was only going to stay in Everlasting until her great-aunt got better.
How was she to know that her great-aunt's accident was no accident ?
Now she has a mystery to solve before her great-aunt is discharged from the hospital.
On top of that, guess who is doing the renovation at the lighthouse.
Dane is who, Hottie Dane is the one doing the renovations.
Zoe still has feeling for Dane. Dane still has feelings for Zoe.
When Zoe suspect of foul play, Dane will not desert Zoe.
Add a lot of cats + a ghost, and you have your ready made Scooby gang ready to solve the case.
I loved the storytelling,
The characters were so well rounded.
Once I started reading it, I could not put it down. Very entertaining !
Zoe was only going to stay in Everlasting until her great-aunt got better.
How was she to know that her great-aunt's accident was no accident ?
Now she has a mystery to solve before her great-aunt is discharged from the hospital.
On top of that, guess who is doing the renovation at the lighthouse.
Dane is who, Hottie Dane is the one doing the renovations.
Zoe still has feeling for Dane. Dane still has feelings for Zoe.
When Zoe suspect of foul play, Dane will not desert Zoe.
Add a lot of cats + a ghost, and you have your ready made Scooby gang ready to solve the case.
I loved the storytelling,
The characters were so well rounded.
Once I started reading it, I could not put it down. Very entertaining !
August 6, 2023
That was a bunch of fun. Completely outlandish and the identity of the villains kind of came out of nowhere, but it was still a lot of fun. I got such a kick out of watching Zoe discover just how much more there is in the world than she’d been willing to believe. And my sentimental heart loved seeing her reconnect with Dane and find a possible new future that might fit her better than she’d ever guessed.
October 5, 2017
Jana Deleon did an amazing job with this story. This is one of four books in the series all written by different authors. I haven't had the privileged of reading her work before but I will be back. Zoe is a meteorologist who lives in LA. She's come back to Everlasting to help take care of her Aunt Sapphire who recently had a fall. She grew up here but had no intention of returning. Little does she know that her Aunt did not have an ordinary fall. There is a lot of intrigue and suspense with a hint of romance that keeps you engaged throughout the entire story.
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