A Heartfelt Dive into the Paranormal with Dearly Departed
As a longtime fan of Sherry A. Burton’s Jerry McNeal Series, I was practically buzzing with excitement for the release of Dearly Departed, the latest installment. It’s hard not to get hooked by this unique blend of humor, heart, and the occasional ghostly encounter, especially when Jerry and his team dive into a new adventure. It feels like inviting old friends over for tea—if those friends happened to include a charismatic ghost and a feisty dog!
In this 18th installment, we join April and Jerry as they set sail on a cruise to help Mr. Bigsby, a persistent spirit with a pressing problem: his wife is at risk of being scammed. The narrative navigates seas of suspense, humor, and heartfelt moments as April rushes against time, and amidst this thrilling urgency, we see a beautiful exploration of love and trust, not just in relationships but between the living and the dearly departed.
The humor shines through the narrative—Burton has an exquisite ability to weave lightheartedness into what could otherwise be a heavy subject. I was frequently chuckling at Jerry’s banter, especially as he tries to convince April that this might also be the perfect opportunity for him to finally pop the question. The humorous dynamic keeps readers engaged, even as they confront the more serious themes of deception and the fragility of trust, which serves to ground the fantastical elements.
Burton’s writing strikes an enchanting balance between playful prose and gripping storytelling. The pacing feels just right, transitioning smoothly from the buildup before the cruise to the action-packed events aboard the ship. Her ability to create vivid settings made me feel as though I were right there on the deck, experiencing the ocean breeze and the swirling emotions of each character.
While reading, I was particularly moved by April’s internal conflict: her desire to help Mr. Bigsby while grappling with her own feelings for Jerry. This tension added depth to the story, and I found myself rooting for their relationship just as much as I was for Mr. Bigsby’s mission. It’s this layer of emotional richness that makes the characters feel genuinely relatable and endearing.
One review captured my sentiments perfectly: “From what happens before the cruise to on the cruise, the complexity of each detail is superb.” I couldn’t agree more. The meticulous attention to detail Burton places in her work—whether it’s the antics of Gunter the dog or the comedic relief provided by the various ghosts—adds an irresistible charm.
As I closed the book, I reflected on how Dearly Departed brilliantly encapsulates the series’ essence—immersive storytelling, whimsical spirits, and heartwarming relationships. This book, like its predecessors, is a perfect pick for readers who enjoy a touch of humor and a lot of heart in their paranormal escapades.
If you’re seeking a captivating adventure filled with laughter, mystery, and a dash of romance, look no further. I wholeheartedly recommend Dearly Departed. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the series or a newcomer hoping to explore the world of Jerry McNeal, there’s something here for everyone. I will be eagerly awaiting the next installment, but until then, I’ll be diving back into this delightful tale again and again.
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You can find Dearly Departed : Book 18 in The Jerry McNeal Series (A paranormal Snapshot) here >>






