Bitter Spirits (Roaring Twenties)
*Starred Review* Bennett’s absolutely delightful first in a new series stirs intrigue, paranormal activity, and romance into a wonderfully refreshing brew. In 1927 San Francisco, spirit medium Aida Palmer is working speakeasies, reuniting customers with their loved ones, when she meets rugged bootlegger Winter Magnusson, who’s been poisoned and put under a spell he hopes she can cure. While this isn’t her bailiwick, she knows someone who can get right of the poison, but not the curse that induces ghosts to attack him. As Aida and Winter hunt down the origins of the curse in Chinatown, they learn that a secret underground tong is trying to take over the bootlegging business. Fighting for their lives, they grow closer, and they finally agree to an affair. But what if their temporary liaison isn’t enough? Will Aida give up a  career that includes so much travel? Will Winter jump into marriage again after his tragic first foray? Bennett’s fast-paced dialogue, often witty and sharp, as well as her charming characters and detailed setting, will truly captivate romance readers. --Pat Henshaw