I am a big fan of mysteries. Take that and add in the victim being a celebrated magician, and a big contest at the Belief and Beyond conference to anyone who can prove that the paranormal exists? How could I not read this book? Emily Castles is a young sleuth and she kind had a nancy drew vibe going on. Another huge plus for me. Beyond Belief, despite the fact that this is a serious murder mystery novel, it is actually surprisingly funny and was a very fun read. I know that sounds strange, but the mixture of the humor and the suspense of the mystery were an awesome combination for me. I loved this book. I couldn't guess the twists and turns and the story had me completely engrossed and on the edge of my seat the whole time.

Beyond Belief is the second book in the Emily Castles Mysteries series, but each book can be read as a standalone. I didn't read the first book in the mysteries series so I am not sure how much set up and background character information was given in the first book, but I never felt lost or out of plce while reading this story. The only thing I thought about was whether or not I would have gotten to know Emily Castle a little better through the first book. I feel like we did get to know her in this story well enough, but she was surrounded but such crazy and loud other characters that she seemed almost mousy in comparison. And I know that she wasn't someone that I would classify as mousy on her own. She is spunky and independent and very resourceful, but even with all of that, she still felt overshadowed by all of the "look at me" eccentric people around her.

I am now a fan of Helen Smith. I need to check out more of her books based on her writing in Beyond Belief. She is just so spot on with her descriptions. I found myself nodding along appreciatively when I could picture EXACTLY what she was describing. I just loved it. This book will have you laughing, and scratching your head right along with Emily trying to solve the case. Beyond Belief was a huge hit for me!