The Clairvoyant's Glasses: A Vision Unexpected

The Clairvoyant's Glasses #1

by Helen Goltz

When Sophie Carell was eight-years-old, her eccentric, clairvoyant great aunt, Daphne, predicted Sophie would be one of the greatest clairvoyants of her time. Sophie wanted to be a movie star. Her mother said not to worry about it - Aunt Daphne was daffy. When Sophie is called to the reading of Daphne's Will, she is given a pair of glasses that will change her life. But that's not all she acquires. Along with the glasses, Sophie 'inherits' a protector-the handsome and powerful Lukas Lens; plus brooding Detective Murdoch Ashcroft who is keen for Sophie to fill her aunt's shoes and put her talents to work for him. Sophie has to decide if she will focus on her acting career or explore her new-found clairvoyant skills. But danger lurks around the corner...

Genres: Fantasy, Mystery, Paranormal, Romance, Fiction, Supernatural

340 pages, Paperback

First published September 28, 2015

About the author

Helen is a hybrid-published, Amazon best-selling author. After studying English Literature, Media, and Communications at universities in Queensland, Australia, and obtaining a Counselling Diploma, Helen Goltz has worked as a journalist, producer and marketer in print, TV, radio and public relations. Born in Toowoomba she has made her home in Brisbane, Australia with her journalist husband, Chris, and Boxer dog, Baxter.

Connect with Helen:
Website: www.helengoltz.com
BookBub:www.bookbub.com/authors/helen-goltz
Facebook: www.facebook.com/HelenGoltz.Author
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helengoltza...

Reviews

[Phrynne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having already read a few books by this author this was not at all what I expected but it was really good nevertheless! I love fantasy and the supernatural and I also love mysteries. This book combined these genres so it was necessarily a winner for me. The main character was that rare thing a truly strong female. She didn't claim to be intelligent and then put herself in every dangerous situation possible, nor did she claim to be independent and then fall head over heels for every good looking man who came along. Instead she made decisions, moved ahead purposefully and stood up for herself. It was all very reassuring. I assume there will be more books to follow this one as I really want to know what happens with the Raven and there is also a lot more to discover about Lukas. And we need to find out why she isn't at the wedding...........

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

All her life Sophie Carell had been told by her Aunt Daphne that she would become a great and famous clairvoyant – but Sophie didn’t want anything to do with it. She had wanted to act; become a famous movie star – that was her lifelong dream. When Aunt Daphne passed away, Sophie was devastated; but the reading of her will meant she would surely receive Daphne’s house – wouldn’t she? But her inheritance of two pairs of glasses shocked and saddened her – she thought her life would be easier; now she would have to work hard…

But the glasses were to change Sophie’s life. Her future as a clairvoyant looked assured – but did she want to follow in her Aunt’s footsteps? As she learned about the glasses and what they did, she met up with the Lens family; Lukas, Alfred and Orli. These three extra-ordinary people were also to feature in a large way in her new life. She also inherited her Aunt’s receptionist, Miss Sharpe – an extremely knowledgeable woman.

When she was approached by Detective Murdoch Ashcroft asking Sophie to please continue with her Aunt’s work in assisting the police, she was torn. Did she want this? Her acting career was beckoning, but so was her new future – what was she to do? With the words of wisdom from her best friend Lucy, she decided to give it a trial run.

But was there danger that accompanied her new life? Suddenly Sophie was aware of a looming evil – what had she done? What had she stirred up? Would Detective Ashcroft be able to keep her safe as she dug deeply into the mysteries that surrounded her?

I absolutely loved Aussie author Helen Goltz’s first foray into the fantasy/paranormal genre with The Clairvoyant’s Glasses. Originally a crime/mystery author, which is what I first read and loved, it seems this author has excellent writing skills as well as a brilliant imagination. The Clairvoyant’s Glasses is a fast and entertaining read which ticked all the boxes; a gripping mystery, laced with light romance as well as the elements of paranormal. I have no hesitation in highly recommending this novel to all.

With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy to read and review.

[Jülie ☼♄  · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! A very serious story with a very quirky twist made for very entertaining reading.

When Sophie Carell was called to the reading of her late aunt Daphne's will she was excited at the prospect of receiving her aunt's lovely old house, and possibly a little something to help boost her financial position while she struggled to find work as an actor.

Sophie's eccentric aunt Daphne was quite well off from her very successful career as a renowned clairvoyant.
Her clients ranged from the rich and famous to the local police, and she had helped solve many crimes over the years, often reaping handsome rewards.
However, Daphne's family had always thought her a little odd and affectionately dubbed her Daffy.

Daphne always told Sophie that she would follow in her footsteps and become one of the greatest clairvoyant's of her time, a prospect which Sophie did not relish or desire, she was going to be a famous actor!
What her aunt in fact left her was a total shock to Sophie, it consisted of two pairs of glasses and a letter of explanation and instructions.

As Sophie comes to terms with her aunt's seemingly paltry legacy, things start to happen around her and it would appear that her aunt's predictions for her will not be denied.
She soon learns that her life is about to dramatically change course unless she can change it...but can she??

I thoroughly enjoyed this unique story and sincerely hope there will be a follow up book because I would love to read more about these characters, they are all so well developed with strong personalities that make you want to know more about what happens in their future.
This would make a great series.
5★s

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for providing my copy to read and review.

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read by Helen Goltz but it won't be the last. It was a lot of fun with the idea that a pair of glasses could be passed down from one generation to the next, albeit to someone with special skills. I enjoyed the paranormal aspects of this book as Sophie grows into her new role and learns how to help people with their problems and to help the police solve crimes. I especially enjoyed seeing Sophie mature from a n aimless actress and waitress to a young woman with purpose in her life. The other characters were also delightful, especially Sophie's friends Lucy and Blaine and the charming Lens family as well as the dark and brooding detective, Murdoch. I sense this is the start of a series and very much look forward to the next instalment.

[Chrys Minter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting

Very interesting story that I wished hadn't ended. I enjoyed the story and the adventure. I hope this author continues the story in the future.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

♥ This review was first published on .{ ink.eaters }.♥


When I first picked up The Clairvoyant's Glasses by Helen Goltz, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. The blurb had hinted on either something paranormal, or a book full of "daffy". Every now and then I enjoy a paranormal read, but by now a lot of them are a case of been there, read that, revolving mainly around a love triangle with a little bit of supernatural or magic on the side, mainly to complicate things. While you definitely do have a bit of a love triangle - or two, or three - in this novel, they aren't the center of attention. They are what happens in the background, what drives and at times motivates the characters; but in The Clairvoyant's Glasses's case, the triangles are what's on the side and the main focus is on the paranormal and on how those affected and involved deal and live with it.

That being said, there is a lot of character development in this novel, which definitely contributes to it being a great read as well. The main character starts out as being super superficial and absolutely self-centered, but in the course of the story she does a one-eighty and completely changes her ways without ever losing herself - I guess, in a way, you could say she manages to grow up a whole lot in the shortest of times. Except for when it comes to guys, but that's a whole different story - one that you will have to discover and explore on your own... (;
Another thing that is truly amazing about this book is how the author has managed to wrap historical events into the story, and you'll even get to 'meet' the Brontë sisters, which, in my eyes, earned Goltz and her novel some extra brownie points. The mention of pieces of history and the way they are presented makes it easy to follow and understand the world created by the writer, and adds to the story seeming 'real' despite it paranormal aspects.

However, The Clairvoyant's Glasses isn't just a book for the lover of paranormal romance novels. It is a book that I find very hard to label, because it crosses the lines of so many genres. You do have the paranormal and the romance, but you also get your fill of mystery, crime and suspense, as the main character gets to work hand in hand with a (very hot, dark and brooding hunk of a) detective. In the beginning, I thought it would be YA, but you do get your steamy moments, so NA would probably be a little more fitting. All in all, I think Paranormal NA Novel would cover it the best - but I am sure you're in for a treat with this rather fast read no matter what your favorite genre might be.

The only thing I was a little disappointed with was the fact that my ship never happened... but I'll just have to remain hopeful that there will be a second part, which the ending of this novel would definitely foreshadow. It's not exactly a cliffhanger, yet somewhat of an open end, and I will keep my fingers crossed for my OTP!




*** I received an ARC from the author ***

[Melissa Burcham · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ARC book for an honest review free of persuasion from the author or anyone else affiliated with this book.

CONTAINS SOME SPOILERS

I love books about witches and magic. This book did not disappoint. It was a very interesting read. I loved the whole new take on things with the curse. It was very interesting to see how things played out. The book also referred to historical points in witch history that helped to give credibility to the story. I could actually see things playing out as I read the book. In this day and age of mediums and clairvoyants, this story was very believable. Helen did a really good job writing! I sincerely hope that their will be a sequel to this book. The ending was open to one, but not necessary. I just wasn't ready for the book to end!

Sophie has long thought her aunt to be daffy! As a child, Aunt Daphne would tell Sophie that she would one day too be a clairvoyant. Sophie never listened to Daphne. She dreamed of being an actress and didn't believe her aunt. When Daphne passes away, Sophie is in for a surprise! Sophie attends Daphne's will reading. At the will reading, she is given glasses that change her life completely. What does Sophie discover? How does it change things for her?

Thank you Helen for the good read. I look forward to reading more by this author!

[Gypsy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story was an enjoyable read. The quality of writing was very good and relatable, I loved that there were pieces of history mentioned throughout the story, it made everything feel more real. The characters had a lot of personality, which is always a plus. The main character (Sophie) started out superficial and greedy and slowly grew to a more respectable person (which I was thankful for, as disliking a main character can ruin the book). However, I didn't quite understand why Sophie was so quick to forgive and forget that Daniel (pretty much a stranger) used and lied to her, she was barely upset at all. Her parents weren't mentioned much, which left me with questions. I excused the predictability of the book, seeing as it's the first book in the series (I have high hopes for this series). Despite a slow and predictable start, I look forward to reading more and learning what happens next!

I would have given it a 3.5 rating if possible. ...

[Angel Hatfield · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sophie wants to be an actress and get wed to an actor . But since a child her aunt has told her that Sophie would be a great clairvoyant . On her aunt’s death she is left some glasses that can predict the future but only on Sophie . She also gets a protector named Lucas . Sophie’s family has an enemy called the raven . Also Officer Maddoch wants Sophie to help with some cases as her aunt did .
Pretty good book but a little predictable . But I still enjoyed reading the story . I really liked the characters especially Sophie and all she had to learn as well as the twists and turns she has . I also like the story and plot . I recommend .
I received an ARC for this story for an honest review .

[Linda Cole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating

Enjoyed very much would like to read more of these. Maybe in a series? Characters were interesting and I love reading the history of the ancestors.

[Lisa Arnold · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyable read, very light hearted and entertaining, lacks a bit of depth so just missed out on five stars but will certainly read this again. Sophie wants to be a movie star, instead she inherits a gift from her aunt, two pairs of spectacles - which she has to collect from a shop full of mysteries and surprises, and then there is her aunts gift of clairvoyance. If you are looking for a mystic to help you escape covid lockdown this could be just the book for you. I received this book from voracious reader for review and I can not recommend it more and I look forward to the sequel. So many books that I would never have picked up in a bookstore and yet are entertaining, voracious readers are opening whole new worlds for me, as far as authors and genre are concerned and this is one such book. While mystery and thriller will always be my favourites a touch of magic instead of forensics is a little more fun.

[Literature and Leaves · Rating 4 out of 5]

(I received this book in exchange for an honest review)
4🌟’s

The Clairvoyant’s Glasses was such interesting story!

What happens when you’re thrown off the path you chose, onto the one you’re meant for? After inheriting glasses from her Aunt Daphne, Sophie is confused and disappointed to say the least. Soon she’s thrown into a world of visions, bloodlines, witches, deception, and murder.
So much history attached to the glasses and family lines involved, it added an unexpected depth that really made this story great! Admittedly I wasn’t a big fan of Sophie for awhile, she just rubbed me the wrong way. Her character development redeemed her in the end, and I hope it only gets better with the second book. Overall I enjoyed this story and recommend it! I’ll definitely look into the next in the series!

[Always An · Rating 3 out of 5]

This series is more about back story than psychic abilities

This story has a fun, easy cadence and the author is good at story telling.

Having read all 4 books in this series, I wanted to give a heads up to reader who enjoy the quick paced reading of many clairvoyant/ psychic stories, as this series progressively focuses upon the drama of the character back stories, and less on the abilities.

This first book has a good mix of psychic elemental themes, showcasing the Main characters powers; however, by book 4 in the series the books have morphed more into drama than psychic.

Content alert:
This series has minimal fowl language, however it does contain mature / sequel scenes

[Barbara Sachs · Rating 3 out of 5]

YA? R-rated

This story is told in such a simple style, I wondered if it was a YA piece. But then the sex scenes showed up. I almost put the book down unfinished. There had already been an immature focus on clothes and looks and physique, which I found annoying, but I hoped this author wouldn't go any further.

Despite that, I found the story idea intriguing enough to pique my interest, and since they're available through ku, at least I don't have to buy them to see if this story goes where I think it will.

[Judith Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

I see things

A delightful story with interesting characters. A young woman who is the latest in a long line of clairvoyants, begins her journey. Her initial thoughts and feelings are deftly written as the book continues through her first forays. There are 2 mysteries in the book; a missing young woman, and the mysteries of the development and background of the protagonist in the book. I hope there will be a series which continues the development of these fascinating characters.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a VERY unique take on the ho-hum clairvoyant story, very, very unique!! I loved it and devoured it in one sitting. I couldn't put it down. It's not easy to describe the book without giving something away, so I'll just say this; if you are a paranormal cozy fan, Run, don't walk, to the nearest library, Kindel, keyboard to order from Amazon or however you get your books and obtain a copy of this book immediately. You won't be sorry. I have to go now; I can't wait any longer to begin the next book!!

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!!

I loved the premise of the story being of a new clairvoyant. The way she was the chosen one and handed down the glasses was an interesting twist. I really liked all of the characters and the building of them. The story itself was wonderful and each time I needed to step away, I could hardly wait to continue on! I will start reading the second in the series tomorrow!

[Rhonda Erler · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a slow start but good story

The first part of the story I was afraid I wasn't going to like the main character Sophie. She seemed immature and somewhat selfish. Gladly she does a 180 and seems to change overnight. The storyline is definitely different than most and I look forward to a new book exploring the raven connection.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked Helen Goltz’s The Clairvoyant’s glasses and I am really looking forward to reading the next one in the series. I am fascinated by the spiritual world and at times I can be a sceptic. However, the author incorporated fantasy and the spiritual world very well along with likeable characters and this made for interesting, fun and entertaining reading.

[Janet Hendricks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Paranormal Suspense At It's Best

The story of the clairvoyant's glasses has captivated me. The characterizations, the suspenseful anticipation, and the weaving of the story from the 1500s to present day and back is masterful. I am so looking forward to reading the rest of the series.

[Kasey Briggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

A surprise inheritance sends Sophie on a new path.:-$ :-!

Sophie inherits some rather drab glasses from her aunt Daphne. Daphne also predicted that Sophie would be the next clairvoyant, something Sophie is not particularly excited about. However she decides to try the job and she likes it when she can help people using the visions she sees when she wears the glasses.

[Rhonda Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Book

I loved this book! It had so much going on that the pace was fast and I read it in one day. There was the major case, a murder. But there were also a lot of smaller issues that the new psychic solved for her Great Aunt's prior clients. And the world building and character development were fantastic. No same old tropes here. On to the next in series.

[Lorna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant!

Once again proving I have terrible distinguishing between English and Australian settings, I thought this book terribly British. Whoops.

Masterful characters, wonderfully unique psychic lines. If the plot and reveals are a little preferable, it takes nothing from the book.

Very enjoyable!

[Ann Kingston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful first book!!!!

I was drawn into this totally different type of story!!! (Glasses that allow you to see what no one else can)
I was also glad to discover that there are more books in the series!!! This first book ended quite abruptly and I would have been upset, but with my Kindle, I just pushed a button and continued on!!!!😁

[Rebecca Wetzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sophie's new life

I really enjoyed all the characters and how descriptive they all are . the premise of the clans and of the glasses is so interesting. I also really love how we are seeing Sophie's growth and all her talents revealed. The side stories of the love couples is a nice touch too!

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the book….

This is different from any book I’ve ever read. To say I was hooked from the start is an understatement. I was hooked and I read with my heart pounding. Wonderful characters. Great variety to keep it moving and of. Ourse, a cliffhanger to Book2… I’m glad it’s already available…starting it now….looks like it’s cereal for dinner again tonight.

[Lenora K. Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intriguing

A fast paced story with excellent adventure and action. A young woman expanding her talents and possibilities. The ending was abrupt and left you wanting to know more. A good read. Recommended highly. Hard to put this one down.

[Olivia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay book

I enjoyed the characters, Sophie at the beginning I found annoying but by the end she had grown as a person. I just found this book a little slow and light on plot. Though good world building. I won't be reading any more books by this author though.

[Linda Farrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent story

This was the first book I’ve read from the author, very interesting and very minimal editing needed. The characters were very good, I got completely immersed into the story and looking forward to the next book!

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

The description of the book intrigued me, and i was pleasantly surprised that i enjoyed this book. Read it in one go. I loved that it had a different storyline to all the other books that seem to have the same plot.