Overall this was an interesting plot but I couldn't connect with any of the characters. This story is a palette cleanser to get you amped to return to your favorite genre (fantasy, romance, historical fiction, etc.).

A fun, humorous read with lots of Spanish words, and phrases sprinkled throughout which I enjoyed. This book has many things going on such as cultural references, a supernatural entity, aromatherapy recipes and bilingual proverbs that begin each chapter. The characters are interesting and the setting in a university in Boulder is unique.

Review to Come

Love the cover ❤️
Description intrigued me…
Author is new to me.

Thanks NetGalley for the ARC

BIPOC Paranormal Cozy-ish Mystery that features a psychic Colorado Spanish professor and amateur aromatherapist turns sleuth after being found with the strangled theater professor's body.

3/5 stars: This is the first entry in Dow's Issy Castillo Murder Mystery series, which is a BIPOC Paranormal Cozy-ish Mystery that takes place in Colorado and features a psychic Spanish professor and amateur aromatherapist who turns sleuth after being discovered with the strangled theater professor's body. She'll have to navigate academic and campus politics and romantic relationships to uncover the killer. With plenty of twists and turns, Dow has crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects, clues and red herrings and will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. I really appreciate how Dow's plot unfolds and the way the investigation's resolved. Told non-linearly with wit and humor, Dow's writing and character work are excellent; the characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable. Issy's great and love getting to know her and her family and new friends. The paranormal elements are pretty significant. Issy has intuitive dreams and speaks to the spirit of her six-time-great-grandmother, Dona Isabella, who manifests “in person” and as a hummingbird. Additionally, I enjoyed all the info about Latin and Native American culture and traditions and aromatherapy practices. Oh and don't miss out on the aromatherapy and culinary recipes included. Dow touches on some sensitive topics, so take care and the CWs. Overall, this is an interesting start to a new series and I look forward to reading more.

I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Level Best Books | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.