Mediums and Murder (Prickly Pear Psychic Mystery 1), by Elle Wren Burke

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I have been enjoying the Chatty Cat Mystery Series, by Elle Wren Burke, since the beginning. This is a spinoff series from the Prickly Pear Psychic Mystery series, which, until now, I had not read or listened to. When I was offered a free copy of the audiobook for the first in the series, Mediums and Murder, I did not pass up the opportunity to begin the series that started it all.

Prickly Pear is a small dessert town in Arizona, where Alara resides. She has psychic powers that she uses only when necessary. The need arises when her friend is found murdered, but can Alara keep her powers a secret so that the townspeople don't judge her? Fortunately, her long lost Aunt Irene shows up and reveals she possesses the same psychic powers, so she serves as a a mentor to Alara. While Alara learns more about her psychic powers and how to use them, she attempts to solve her friend's murder.

I really enjoyed getting to know Alara and all of the main characters in this book. The relationship that develops between Alara and her aunt is heart-warming. There is a hint of romance between Alara and another character that just may be a sign that something more will happen in future installments.

I don't typically read warm-weather books in the winter, but I have to say, the contrast was comforting. I have never been to Arizona, so I appreciated getting acquainted with the area through armchair traveling. It definitely made me want to visit Prickly Pear again.

The mystery was solid and I did not figure out who the culprit was until it was revealed. There were moments in the book when Alara was learning about her psychic powers, which took me out of the story a bit. This is always a challenge with a first in series, especially with world-building in a paranormal, so I certainly understand the need for it, however. I like that the reader gets acquainted with Alara's powers at the same time she does when her Aunt Irene is mentoring her. 

I wasn't a fan of some of the language Alara used, but hopefully this will improve in future installments. At least one real-world serious issue is briefly touched upon in this book. Such a serious topic may not be everyone's cup of tea in a cozy, but it didn't overpower the story and it didn't bother me. In fact, it helps us get to know the characters better.

Since I'm a huge fan of the Chatty Cat Mystery series, the spinoff, I am curious to see how the Prickly Pear Psychic series unfolds. I will definitely be coming back for more. I enjoyed the narration by Vanessa Daniels, so I just may continue the series through audio if and when they're available in that format.

Thank you to author, Elle Wren Burke, for providing me with a free code for this audiobook. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.