In the middle of a divorce from her television talk show husband, Emma is a bit at loose ends and agrees to travel to a former mining town, Julian, near San Diego, where she digs into her family history and the history of the town, trying to uncover the truth about a centuries old murder.  One of the more pleasant surprises Emma encounters is Phil Bower, lawyer and rancher, who now owns the property that once belonged to Granny Apples. 

Emma has also turned up something less pleasant than possible romance and someone wants her dead for knowing the information. Working between the past and present, with the help of someone who keeps fading in and out to “recharge”, all the while craving apple pie, Emma works quickly to not only clear her granny’s name, but also to stay alive.

  Ghost a la Mode is a pleasant mix of cozy and paranormal.  There are just enough ghostly happenings to add interest without overwhelming the charming cozy plot. Emma is an interesting character to watch unfold as she reinvents herself after being married to a blustering TV star for most of her adult life.  Granny Apples also helps Emma rediscover her relationship with her parents, especially her mother Elizabeth who has had trouble accepting the visitations she has had from Granny Apples.

  History buffs will enjoy the well-plotted mystery with roots in the past, but consequences in the present.  A sprinkling of romance adds just the right spice to this new series that has something for everyone.                                                  

--Jennifer Monahan Winberry