Engaging with the Supernatural: A Review of A New Lease on Death (Ruby and Cordelia Mysteries #1)
There’s a certain allure to books that blend the quirky with the supernatural, and A New Lease on Death by L.L. Smith caught my eye through a flurry of media promotions whispering of a whimsical mystery series. As someone who adores a good ghost story mingled with a light-hearted mystery, I found myself reserving it at my local library. After indulging in one late-night reading session, I emerged from its pages with a mix of delight and contemplation.
The story revolves around Cordelia Graves, a ghost with a penchant for watching her indoor plants wither, and Ruby Young, a headstrong twenty-year-old fleeing a tumultuous relationship. Cordelia’s rather dreary post-mortem existence in her rundown Boston apartment takes a turn when Ruby moves in, oblivious to her spectral roommate at first. The tension between the dead and the living creates a lively dynamic, particularly as Cordelia initially attempts (and hilariously fails) to scare Ruby away.
The plot thickens when the charming but infamous neighbor Jake Macintyre is murdered in what appears to be a botched mugging. Cordelia, feeling unexpectedly compelled, teams up with Ruby—her only option to untangle the gritty threads of the murder mystery. This unlikely partnership forms the heart of the book, and watching them navigate their relationship is a delightful ride.
One of the highlights of this debut is Ruby’s character. I found her daring spirit and rebellious fashion choices refreshing and relatable. Her optimistic outlook provided a nice counterbalance to Cordelia’s initially somber demeanor. It took me longer to warm up to Cordelia, whose history unfolds in a somewhat slow reveal. Yet, once you peel back the layers of her past, you can’t help but empathize with her struggles, adding depth to their budding friendship.
However, the pacing of the narrative felt uneven at times. The first third was notably slow—a necessary setup, yes, but a few repetitive moments stalled the momentum. Once the action intensified and the stakes were raised, I felt myself more invested. The supernatural elements were intriguing, particularly the world-building surrounding the afterlife; I wish the author had delved deeper into this aspect. The character of Harp especially piqued my curiosity and left me craving more exploration of his story.
While A New Lease on Death has its flaws—a sometimes tepid murder mystery and an ending that didn’t completely catch me off guard—it possesses a raw potential that bodes well for the series’ future. I see this first book as a work in progress, laying the groundwork for what could develop into a uniquely charming series. Though not perfect, it’s certainly enjoyable enough that I can see myself picking up the next installment, curious to see how Ruby and Cordelia’s adventures unfold.
In conclusion, I’d recommend A New Lease on Death to those who enjoy cozy mysteries with a supernatural twist. If you’re looking for light-hearted fun with a hint of the paranormal, this book might just be the perfect fit. As for me, while it may not have been a five-star experience, it certainly opened the door to a curious partnership worth exploring further.
I’ll leave A New Lease on Death with a solid 2.5 out of 5 stars—primed for the next adventure in what I hope will be a peculiarly enchanting series.
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