Now You See It by Carol J. Perry

 

Reviewed by Jeanne

Newlywed Lee Barrett is taking on yet another new job at WICH-TV, Salem’s aptly-lettered local TV station. This time she is “Historical Documentary Chief Executive,” working on features that deal with the town’s storied past. Of course, this is in addition to all her other jobs at the station, but at least she’s getting a chance to be in front of the camera again. A new museum dedicated to New England history will be opening soon, so Lee is covering the final renovations and installations for their first exhibit, “Seafaring New England.” There will be some dazzling exhibits, including some very rare and near priceless items: Chinese porcelain, jewels from India, and more.

Lee’s new husband, Detective Pete Mondello, is also taking an interest in the exhibit but not for the same reasons: a delivery man who was bringing in items for the exhibition is found murdered in a pile of leaves.  Oddly, nothing seems to have been taken. But then Lee’s psychic senses begin to show her images and she soon finds herself reporting on more than ships and cargo.

This is lucky number thirteen in the Witch City Mystery series, though you don’t necessarily have to read them in order. For me, part of the pleasure in these books is touching base with all the characters, who feel like old friends by now.  I adore O’Ryan, Lee’s cat who may be more than he seems; her Aunt Ibby, reference librarian and amateur sleuth who helps Lee with her research; and River North, who is a practicing witch and TV movie host who reads Tarot for Lee. You may notice that I left Pete out of the list, not because I dislike him but to be honest, I find him a rather bland character in the middle of so many interesting ones.

One thing I have always loved about this series is that I learn from it.  There’s always a look behind the scenes at a TV station, but usually there’s something else connected with the mystery.  This time there’s some fascinating background about the shipping trade viewed in part through family history of some of the characters.  The descriptions are always vivid: I could almost see some of the exhibits.  The solutions are clever and never come out of left field.

This is one of my favorite cozy series, and long may it sail!