Kathy Valence is a Collections Agent for S.C.Y.T.H.E. – a covert organization helping souls move on after they die. When a routine collection doesn’t go as planned, meaning the essence of teen Conner Ortiz tells Kathy he’s been murdered by one of her people, she begins to notice the strangeness within the company. Her boss is disappointed, after all an essence has only 45 days to safely move on, after that, they will be left to roam indefinitely. This was not on Kathy’s agenda, she’s pregnant and divorcing her too-sweet-to-leave husband. Now there’s someone out to get Conner and the people around her are in the crosshairs. 

I love anything paranormal and the world building was minimal but very interesting. Kathy was a complex character, in the middle of her life and unexpectedly pregnant. Her relationship with Simon, her soon to be ex-husband, was complicated at best. He was the sweetest, most caring man, she was strong headed and stubborn, unable to keep her work secret from him any longer. It was a full journey for them and Kathy went through a lot of growth. 

That growth can only be credited to Conner, her ghostly sidekick and moody teenager. He brought out the maternal instincts in Kathy. They established a heartwarming relationship, after being neglected by his parents for most of his childhood, Conner needed that motherly figure, I really enjoyed this storyline. Kathy and Conner, and sometimes Simon, solving the mystery was entertaining and fun, exactly what I like about the genre. Silly at times but lighthearted and endearing. 

The potential to have this become a series has me excited for what’s to come!

Title: A Grim Reaper’s Guide to Catching a Killer
Author: Maxie Dara
Genre: Paranormal Murder Mystery
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️