The Elf Beside Himself (Beyond the Veil Book 6) by KM Avery

"Hart is back, baby!!!! I know I should write a better opener... but this series is just outta this veil... (couldn't resist!!)" Miki J was excited to read The Elf Beside Himself, book 6 of the Beyond the Veil series.

From the blurb:

Nothing can prepare you for the phone call from your best friend telling you his dad was murdered. Not even if you’re a former homicide cop.

But here I am, getting on a plane to fly halfway across the country to hold his hand and hope to hell that I’m not walking into a complete disaster.

Who am I kidding?

The police think Gregory Crane killed himself, or at least that’s what they’re telling us, but Elliot is sure they’re wrong. And the dead man can’t tell us what happened, either, so I’m going to have to use good old-fashioned detective work to figure this one out. Except I’m not a cop anymore and all my contacts are half a country away.

Add to that the fact that the state I’m in is in the middle of a huge anti-magic movement, and everywhere I turn I have people spitting in my face and calling me a freak.

My mother is going ballistic, my father is threatening to sue the police department, and I’m trying to juggle a brand-new relationship and my falling-apart oldest friend from childhood.

Yeah, you could say I’m beside myself.

Now if only I can hold it together long enough to put together the pieces, maybe, just maybe I can manage to get through this without losing my best friend, my boyfriend, or my life. Whether or not I lose my mind is pretty low on the list of priorities—I’m willing to give that up if only I can keep the rest.

Miki J's Review:

Our favorite lovable grumpy self-sabotaging elf is back... though his usual snarkiness is somewhat subdued because of what's happened and why he's back in his hometown. That soon changes when he starts investigating where he shouldn't and gets in trouble, as you'd imagine... but no-one threatens those he loves.  

I'm truly impressed with this series. It's a very engaging story/plot with plenty of suspense, the tense atmosphere leaving my heart pounding. All balanced with plenty of emotional ups & downs... from laugh out loud moments to tears to "awwwww's" and everything in between.  

I will say that The Elf Beside Himself is hard emotionally, with the grief and the aftermath of someone passing. So honest and stark... but beautifully written... will really tug on the heartstrings!  

Just an awesome book and a truly amazing series!!!

Rating: 5 Stars

The Elf Beside Himself is available to buy as an ebook, paperback, or to read with Kindle Unlimited subscription.