SLIP OF A GIRL: A Parlor Game Mystery

In Slip of a Girl, the third installment of her Parlor Game Mysteries, Linda S. Browning weaves a captivating narrative filled with mystery, supernatural elements, and intriguing explorations into the psychological underpinnings of trauma. Olivia Honeycutt possesses a remarkable gift: the ability to communicate with murder victims, a talent ignited by a haunted Ouija board. Having already guided three souls to peace, Olivia is eager to explore her abilities further and use them to help stranded souls. But her boyfriend, Presley, worries for her safety as she navigates the dangers of each case. When Olivia agrees to investigate the tragic story of Jessica Roeser, a fifteen-year-old girl who fell to her death almost fifty years ago from the crumbling Meadowview Building of a decrepit psychiatric asylum in Knoxville, Tennessee, the stakes are higher than ever. Was it suicide, murder, or a mere accident? As Olivia seeks to unravel the truth behind Jessica's untimely demise and what keeps her spirit from moving on, Presley fears he may lose Olivia to the haunting realm between life and death.

The novel beautifully combines the supernatural with contemporary storytelling elements, inviting readers to navigate the murky waters of past injustices. From the outset, Browning immerses readers in the eerie ambiance of the abandoned Lakeshore Mental Institution. The setting is more than just a backdrop; it becomes a character in its own right, echoing sentiments of forgotten souls and unresolved mysteries. Browning’s descriptions paint a vivid picture of the decaying grandeur of the institution, evoking both sympathy and dread. This atmospheric tension sets the stage for Olivia’s haunting encounters with Jessica's spirit, illustrating the author's unique ability to juxtapose premonition with deeply emotional revelations.

Slip of a Girl explores the multifaceted nature of trauma, not only through Jessica’s story but also through the lives of those around her. Browning skillfully examines the emotional scars borne by Jessica’s family. Through Olivia's investigative journey, Browning addresses pertinent themes such as the inadequacies of mental health care, societal perceptions of insanity, and the haunting legacies that unresolved tragedies leave in their wake. The author's skillful integration of humor, especially through Olivia's witty banter and her relationship dynamics with Presley, augments the entertainment in this spellbinding narrative. This book scores enormous success as a compelling mystery and a poignant exploration of human emotion and experience. A fascinating blend of fiction and mystery, this book is an evocative read with complex yet believable characters, captivating plot twists, and exquisite prose.