A Ghost Hunter's Guide to Solving a Murder, although marketed as a paranormal cozy mystery is not really a cozy mystery and there's not really any paranormal action. It is a historical semi-spy-wartime thriller (lite). It's the first book in a series, by F. H. Petford. Released 2nd Oct. 2025 by Hachette on their Hodder & Stoughton imprint, it's 287 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The second book in the series is not currently available with KU.
Set in 1914, the hotel setting allows for a self-contained plot with a cast of unrelated characters thrown together from a variety of backgrounds (and a variety of motivations). There's no sleuthing, no ghost hunting, and very little mystery. Readers who enjoy historical fiction which progresses at a stately pace, will find it enjoyable. The writing is more than capable and the author does a good job with the characterizations. There are a number of PoV switches which can be confusing when they happen mid chapter, but otherwise the story is well told and engaging.
Three and a half stars. There are currently 2 books out in the series, with a 3rd due out in 1st quarter 2027 from the same publisher. Book 1 is available with a kindle unlimited subscription, the other 2 are not. It would possibly make a nice binge or buddy read, with the codicil that there's no paranormal element or mystery investigation.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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