The Dancing Spirit

A JJ Gilbert Mystery

Fiction - Mystery - Sleuth
382 Pages
Reviewed on 06/10/2023
Buy on Amazon

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    Book Review

Reviewed by Diana Lopez for Readers' Favorite

Sam Warner, a detective, has disappeared. In her house, there were signs of a fight, and traces of blood underline the urgency of solving the case. Her friend JJ won't rest until she finds Sam. There is a list of suspects and motives, but time is against JJ. Fortunately, JJ can communicate with spirits, and on this occasion, she has visions where she hears jazz music and meets Rosa, a woman from the 1920s. Through this supernatural contact, JJ receives clues. She needs to find the meaning of her visions and make connections between past events and her present life. In the process, she discovers that the lives of several people are linked in unexpected ways. In The Dancing Spirit: A JJ Gilbert Mystery Linda M. Williams shares a tale of intrigue that extends the limits of the ordinary world into the supernatural.

I liked The Dancing Spirit because of the concise narrative. Despite the supernatural aspect, the story has a realistic element. Descriptions are only detailed when necessary, although clues are provided for the observant reader. Linda M. Williams explores issues of faith as a secondary aspect, keeping JJ on track in dealing with everyday situations. The characters are delightful and have well-defined personalities. JJ is fearless and creative because when she focuses on her goal, she doesn't stop, no matter what others may think. Her methods may be unconventional, but they achieve results. That's why I recommend this book.

Pikasho Deka

The Dancing Spirit is yet another enthralling installment in the JJ Gilbert Mystery series by Linda M. Williams. JJ Gilbert has a knack for conversing with spirits and often uses her abilities to help law enforcement authorities solve complex cases. When her friend Detective Sam Warner is kidnapped from her home, leaving traces of blood at the scene, things become personal, and JJ is determined to get her friend back alive. Soon, she finds herself plagued by visions of the spirit of a woman from the 1920s that sets her on the trail of a cold case in Phoenix and a missing little girl. Together with Sam's partner Detective Brad Wilson, JJ follows a string of clues to solve the mystery. But with multiple suspects and an unhelpful captain, will JJ be able to save her friend's life?

With a gripping plot full of curved balls and a touch of the paranormal, Linda M. Williams has crafted a riveting sleuth investigation that will have you glued to the pages. The Dancing Spirit will entertain fans of whodunnit mystery and supernatural thrillers alike. The plot is intricately designed, with multiple pieces coming together at the end like the perfect jigsaw puzzle. All the characters feel well-developed, with believable motives that drive their actions. JJ is a compelling protagonist who wants to leave no stone unturned to find her friend. She has a relatable personality that readers can get behind. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and gladly recommend it.

Nino Lobiladze

JJ Gilbert is a psychic medium helping the Riverside Police Department find evidence or missing people, thanks to clues she obtains from the spiritual world. But now, everything is turned upside down. To her horror, JJ discovers her friend, Detective Sam Warner, has been kidnapped by unknown criminals, and her life is in grave danger. JJ receives mystifying messages and visions from a spirit named Rosa. She appears to be from the 1920s, loves to dance, and bears a striking resemblance to Sam. Now, JJ and Sam's partner, Detective Brad Wilson, must unravel the tangled threads of Sam's past cases to bring her home and find her kidnappers. The Dancing Spirit by Linda M. Williams is a compelling crime thriller containing a touch of the paranormal.

Linda M. Williams masterfully unfolds at least three investigative lines without confusing her readers. Her narrative is precise and direct. She skillfully immerses readers into the investigation by explaining even the slightest details. Williams describes JJ's supernatural gift without sensationalizing it. This gift is a part of JJ's life that often leads to complications. I enjoyed the realistic relationships between the well-developed characters that added psychological depth to the story; JJ's fears and frustration as she uncovers the necessary clues are palpable. She knows the meaning of true friendship. Williams added warmth to Rosa's plot line, making my reading experience very emotional. Also, I liked how she gently touched on the question of faith. I could not envision the outcome of The Dancing Spirit until the final pages. Outstanding editorial work also deserves the highest praise. I recommend The Dancing Spirit, the seventh book in a series, to fans of crime thrillers, paranormal mysteries, and lovers of family dramas.