Book Review: Dead Is a State of Mind by Marlene Perez

September 25, 2026

Book Review: Dead Is a State of Mind by Marlene Perez

By Michelle Allen

I recently finished Dead Is a State of Mind, the second book in Marlene Perez’s Dead Is series, and it was a delightfully fun mix of mystery, paranormal intrigue, and teenage drama. Set in the quirky town of Nightshade, where the unusual is practically normal, the story follows Daisy Giordano as she finds herself wrapped up in yet another supernatural mystery.

What I enjoy most about this series is how it balances spooky elements with humor and relatable characters. Daisy is an engaging protagonist who faces the same insecurities and challenges many teenagers do, except she also has to navigate psychics, supernatural creatures, and secrets lurking around every corner. The introduction of Duke Sherrad, a mysterious fortune-teller, adds another layer of suspense and keeps readers guessing about who can be trusted.

As an audiobook listener, I also appreciated Suzy Jackson’s narration, which brought the characters and the small-town atmosphere to life. Her performance made the story feel immersive and easy to get lost in during a busy day.

While the book won’t leave you with deep philosophical questions, it succeeds at what it sets out to do: entertain. It’s a fast-paced, enjoyable read filled with mystery, romance, and supernatural twists that make it difficult to put down. If you’re looking for a light paranormal mystery with plenty of charm and a cast of memorable characters, Dead Is a State of Mind is a great choice.

Have you read any books that perfectly blend mystery, humor, and the supernatural? I’d love to hear your recommendations in the comments! 📚✨

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Dead Is a State of Mind by Marlene Perez

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dead Is a State of Mind was a fun continuation of the Dead Is series. Daisy Giordano once again finds herself caught between everyday teenage drama and the supernatural mysteries that seem to follow her wherever she goes. This installment had a little bit of everything: mystery, romance, humor, and plenty of paranormal twists.
I enjoyed seeing Daisy grow as a character and navigate the challenges that come with her family’s unusual abilities. The arrival of Duke Sherrad added an interesting layer to the story, and I found myself questioning motives and trying to solve the mystery right alongside Daisy. The small-town atmosphere of Nightshade is one of my favorite parts of the series because it feels quirky, spooky, and full of secrets.
As an audiobook, Suzy Jackson did a great job bringing the characters to life. Her narration captured Daisy’s personality and helped keep the story moving at an enjoyable pace.
While some plot points felt a bit predictable, the book was still entertaining and kept me invested from beginning to end. If you enjoy young adult paranormal mysteries with a lighthearted tone, lovable characters, and a touch of romance, this series is definitely worth picking up.
I’m looking forward to seeing what supernatural trouble Daisy gets into next!

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Whispering Willow

Welcome, wanderers and dreamers! I’m Michelle Allen—a poet, storyteller, and seeker of the whispered tales hidden in the wind. Growing up in the enchanting landscapes of Hesperia, Michigan (Hesperides), I found inspiration in the quiet strength of nature, the echoes of mythology, and the ever-changing tides of identity and transformation. Through Whispers of the Willow, I weave verses that bridge past and future, blending structured poetic forms with boundless imagination. My writing is a portal to forgotten legends, mystical transitions, and the universal truths that connect us across time and space. When I’m not crafting lyrical narratives, you’ll find me chasing the golden glow of twilight, exploring fantastical realms, or celebrating the wonder of storytelling in all its forms. Poetry is more than words—it’s a journey, a spell, a bridge between reality and dream. Join me in the adventure, where every whisper carries the promise of discovery. 🌿✨ 📩 Connect with me: allenmic6482@yahoo.com 🌎 Explore my poetry: https://Whispering-Willow.net or https://echoesofthewillow.wordpress.com 📖 Follow the journey: #WhisperingWillow #EliosAndLysandra #NatureLovesTales #FantasyJourney

One response to “Book Review: Dead Is a State of Mind by Marlene Perez”

vermavkv

September 26, 2026 at 3:03 am

What a delightful review, Michelle! 📚✨ I love how you’ve captured the balance between mystery, supernatural intrigue, humor, and teenage drama. It sounds like Dead Is a State of Mind offers exactly the kind of lighthearted escape that can make reading such a pleasure.

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About Me

I am a dreamer, a seeker, and a keeper of stories. My words are more than ink on a page—they are constellations of thought, woven from vulnerability, courage, and the echoes of my heart’s triumphs and trials.

Welcome to Whispering Willow, LLC—a sanctuary where words breathe magic, poetry finds its rhythm, and creativity flourishes. Here, storytelling isn’t just an art; it’s a journey—an exploration of untold tales and whispered truths.

Life has shaped me in many ways, through love, loss, reinvention, and renewal. Raised in the quiet embrace of Hesperia, Michigan, I have always been drawn to the beauty of nature, the wisdom of silence, and the lessons tucked within its stillness. Now, as I split my time between Michigan and Oklahoma City, my experiences weave themselves into my writing, creating a tapestry of memories, reflections, and discoveries.

A proud grandmother, student, and emerging writer, I am currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing at Baker College. My passions extend beyond academia—I am captivated by writing, painting, drawing, reading, and traveling. Each pursuit fuels my creativity, broadens my perspective, and strengthens my ability to connect with the world around me.

Poetry is my deepest form of self-expression, a language through which I explore the silent conversations of nature, the unspoken wisdom of the night, and the whispered secrets of the willow trees. My writing is an ever-evolving journey—a path paved with metaphors and dreams, leading me to profound discoveries with each verse.

But Whispering Willow, LLC is more than just a blog—it’s a haven where words take shape, ideas find clarity, and stories transcend time. Here, you’ll find a collection of my poetry, each piece a reflection of my essence, an imprint of my experiences, and a testament to my growth as a writer.

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I believe in the power of words, their ability to shape understanding, inspire action, and create lasting connections. As I embark on this journey of publishing my first story, I invite you to join me in the ever-changing waters of poetry and creativity. Whether you seek a poetic escape, a thoughtful editor, or a trusted hand to verify your documents, Whispering Willow, LLC stands as your partner in words.

Thank you for being a part of my story—I can’t wait to see where this path leads us!