Jim Miller’s unique abilities did not manifest until he was four, when he found his deceased grandfather occupying a couch, asking Jim to pass along some messages. Since then, Jim has always been able to see departed souls. By asking them to relive memories and relay messages, he helps them to move on. Yet, when his sister goes missing in Florida, Jim cannot decide how to find her or, at least, get more information from the oddly tight-lipped Dunedin PD. What vital information are they withholding from him? Why is the FBI involved in this missing person’s case? Can the lost souls in the city help Jim? Find out in Eulogy of Lost Souls, a supernatural mystery novel by Michael S. Vassel.

I liked how the novel, albeit starting with an innocuous bar scene, soon took mindboggling turns. Jim’s perceptions played a central role in developing the plot’s backbone, ensuring a hefty dose of the paranormal as the story unfolded. Jim often broke the fourth wall, addressing readers directly. This strategy added a quirk to the reading experience, making me feel like I was stepping into his shoes as he began his sleuthing. I liked his brave and resourceful approach in the face of constant warnings from uncooperative detectives and an ever-present, anxious spirit. I loved his sense of duty toward both the dead and the living that made him plow on with his quest. Through his writing, Michael S. Vassel made palpable the dangers lurking around Jim, including merciless cartel members and their equally dangerous henchmen. Yet, what appealed to me the most were the character sketches. Each soul Jim came to know presented a glimpse into a life filled with favorite memories and long-cherished dreams. These unfinished stories touched my heart. Eulogy of Lost Souls is perfect for readers who love paranormal and sleuth stories. Fans of the movie The Sixth Sense will also enjoy this book.

Eulogy of Lost Souls is a work of fiction in the supernatural mystery, suspense, and adventure subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience. Penned by author Michael S. Vassel, the action follows Jim Miller, who possesses the unique ability to communicate with spirits lingering in the mortal world. When his sister goes missing, Jim seeks help from local authorities in Dunedin, but, with no progress made, he travels to Florida to find her. With the assistance of his best friend Kenny and her friends Sarah and Debbie, Jim delves into the mystery surrounding his sister's disappearance. As they uncover unsettling connections to a Cuban drug family and possibly the FBI, Jim must use his ghostly abilities to navigate the dangerous web of intrigue.

Author Michael S. Vassel has crafted a compelling narrative filled with twists and turns, and I found myself racing through this suspenseful tale with my heart in my throat. The character of Jim, with his unique gift and determination to find his sister, serves as a relatable and compelling protagonist, and the close narrative work allows us to sit right on his shoulder and feel every emotional high and low with him. The dynamic between Jim and his friends is warmly realized with a strong skill for dialogue, bringing out the salient points of the mystery in a natural way whilst also characterizing a unique bunch of people. The novel's exploration of family bonds, loyalty, and the supernatural realm creates a rich reading experience that also touches the heartstrings. Overall, Eulogy of Lost Souls delivers an enthralling blend of paranormal mystery and suspense, and I would not hesitate to recommend it.