Psychic Chaos Unleashed

Riley Thorn, a reluctant psychic, finds herself in the middle of chaos—literally and figuratively. Her powers, inherited from a long line of eccentric women, are both a blessing and a curse. Living in a crumbling mansion with her boyfriend Nick Santiago, a tough but loving PI, and a cast of oddball roommates, Riley is constantly pulled between wanting a normal life and being drawn into the supernatural and criminal. The story opens with Riley in a hostage situation at Channel 50, surrounded by exes, frenemies, and a gunman, setting the tone for a wild, unpredictable ride where her psychic abilities are both her greatest asset and her biggest headache.

Reluctant Heroine's Dilemma

Six days earlier, Riley's life is upended by her formidable grandmother Elanora, president of the North American Psychics Guild, who insists Riley must embrace her psychic gifts and help solve a murder. Riley's boyfriend Nick and Detective Weber both want her to stay safe, but the pressure mounts. Riley's internal struggle is palpable—she wants to be helpful, but fears the danger and the responsibility. The tension between her desire for normalcy and her sense of duty is at the heart of her character, and the chapter sets up the central conflict: can Riley be both ordinary and extraordinary?

Domestic Mayhem and New Cases

Nick's PI business is in shambles, operating out of a mansion filled with eccentric seniors. Riley, now his office manager, is drawn into two cases: the murder of Bianca Hornberger, a social media-obsessed housewife, and the disappearance of Larry Rupley, a deadbeat dad. The domestic chaos—ramp construction, nosy neighbors, and constant interruptions—mirrors the disorder in their investigations. Riley's psychic abilities begin to surface in inconvenient ways, hinting at connections between the cases and foreshadowing the glittering, deadly thread that will tie them together.

Family Ties and Fajitas

Riley's family is a source of both strength and stress. Her grandmother's psychic boot camp, her mother's new-age wisdom, and her sister's gentle encouragement all push Riley toward embracing her gifts. Meanwhile, Nick tries to protect Riley by cooking her dinner and asserting his role as her boyfriend, but their domestic bliss is constantly interrupted by family, roommates, and the ever-present threat of danger. The warmth of their relationship is a counterpoint to the chaos around them, grounding Riley as she faces mounting challenges.

Forbidden Investigations

Nick's protective instincts clash with Riley's independence. He forbids her from working with Detective Weber, fearing for her safety after past traumas. Riley, however, is determined to help, feeling the weight of her abilities and the responsibility to use them for good. Their argument is both comedic and heartfelt, highlighting the push-pull dynamic of their relationship. Ultimately, Riley's stubbornness wins out, and she agrees to consult on the murder case, setting the stage for deeper involvement and greater danger.

Closet of Secrets

Riley and Weber visit the Hornberger mansion, where Riley's psychic visions are triggered in Bianca's opulent closet. She witnesses the toxic marriage between Bianca and her husband Teddy, the victim's obsession with social media, and the emptiness beneath the glamorous surface. The vision is both comic and tragic, revealing Bianca's shallow priorities and hinting at the loneliness that made her vulnerable. Riley's psychic insights provide crucial clues, but also leave her physically and emotionally drained, underscoring the cost of her gift.

The Case of Missing Larry

Riley and Nick investigate Larry Rupley's bland, depressing townhouse, searching for clues. The absence of Larry and his cat, Mr. Pickles, suggests foul play. Interviews with neighbors reveal Larry's unremarkable life and hint at a possible connection to the glitter bomb murders. The investigation is laced with humor—awkward neighbors, missing cats, and Riley's psychic "nose twitches"—but the underlying tension grows as the pieces begin to fit together. The chapter ends with the realization that Larry's disappearance is more sinister than it first appeared.

Training, Guns, and Glitter

Nick takes Riley to a gun range for self-defense training, while her grandmother subjects her to psychic boot camp. Both experiences are humbling—Riley is a terrible shot and struggles with her psychic exercises. The parallel training sequences highlight the theme of preparation: Riley must learn to defend herself both physically and psychically. The introduction of glitter bombs as a murder weapon adds a bizarre, comic twist, but also raises the stakes, as Riley realizes she could be the next target.

Basil Family Boot Camp

Elanora's psychic boot camp is grueling, pushing Riley, her sister Wander, and their friend Gabe to their limits. The exercises are both absurd and profound, forcing Riley to confront her fears and insecurities. The family dynamic is rich with humor—cows in the yard, eccentric rituals, and sibling rivalry—but also with genuine love and support. Riley's visions become more intense, linking the murder victims and revealing the killer's pattern. The chapter ends with a sense of foreboding as Riley realizes the danger is closing in.

Psychic Visions Collide

Riley's psychic visions intensify, connecting Bianca, Larry, and a third victim, Titus Strubinger. The glitter bombs are revealed as a two-week warning before each murder. Riley's spirit guides show her the killer's methodical planning and the link between the victims: all are online trolls or toxic personalities. The visions are disorienting and painful, but provide the breakthrough needed to tie the cases together. The chapter is a turning point, as Riley embraces her role as a psychic detective, determined to stop the killer before he strikes again.

The Glitter Bomb Connection

Riley receives a glitter bomb in the mail, confirming she is the next target. The household erupts into panic, with Nick organizing self-defense boot camp and the elderly roommates arming themselves. The absurdity of the situation—glitter everywhere, code words like "Sparkle Poo," and martial arts lessons for octogenarians—provides comic relief, but the threat is real. Riley's fear is palpable, but so is her resolve. The chapter ends with the realization that the killer is escalating, and time is running out.

Channel 50's Dark Side

Riley and Weber investigate Channel 50, uncovering a toxic work environment, disgruntled employees, and a web of online abuse. Riley's ex-husband Griffin and his fiancée Bella are at the center of the drama, providing both comic and emotional tension. The investigation reveals that the killer, Hudson Neudorfer, is an unassuming staffer with a vendetta against online bullies. The chapter builds suspense as the killer's plan comes into focus, setting the stage for the explosive climax.

Enemies, Exes, and Explosions

Riley's personal and professional worlds collide as she navigates exes, family drama, and the looming threat of the killer. Nick's jealousy and protectiveness reach a boiling point, while Riley's psychic abilities are pushed to their limits. The tension is heightened by the killer's decision to accelerate his timeline, targeting Riley and her neighbor Chelsea. The chapter is a whirlwind of emotion, humor, and suspense, culminating in the abduction of Riley and Chelsea and the setup for the final showdown.

The Hero Complex

The killer's backstory is revealed: Hudson's brother Jackson was driven to suicide by bullying, and Hudson has become a vigilante, targeting those he deems irredeemable. His hero complex is both tragic and terrifying, as he justifies murder in the name of justice. Riley's psychic connection to Jackson provides a glimmer of hope, as she tries to reach Hudson's humanity and prevent further bloodshed. The chapter explores themes of trauma, revenge, and the blurred line between justice and vengeance.

Love, Jealousy, and Family Dinners

Amidst the chaos, Riley and Nick's relationship deepens. Jealousy, family dinners, and confessions of love provide moments of warmth and vulnerability. The extended families—both Thorn and Santiago—are sources of both comedy and conflict, highlighting the importance of connection and support. The chapter balances the high stakes of the murder investigation with the everyday challenges of love, trust, and belonging.

The Price of Protection

Nick's need to protect Riley clashes with her desire for autonomy. He tracks her phone, hires Mrs. Penny to follow her, and insists on constant vigilance. Riley resents the intrusion, but ultimately understands the fear driving Nick's actions. Their reconciliation is heartfelt, as they learn to balance love and independence. The chapter explores the cost of caring deeply and the importance of trust in relationships.

Self-Defense and Sparkle Poo

The household's self-defense boot camp is both hilarious and empowering. Elderly roommates wield canes, code words are established, and even the dog Burt gets involved. The absurdity of the situation—sparkly dog poop, martial arts for seniors, and psychic exercises—provides much-needed levity. But beneath the humor is a serious message: everyone must be prepared to face danger, and community is a powerful force for survival.

The Final Countdown

Hudson accelerates his plan, taking hostages at Channel 50 and rigging the studio with a bomb. Riley, Chelsea, and a cast of familiar faces are trapped, forced to confront their own flaws and the consequences of their actions. Riley's psychic abilities are the key to survival, as she negotiates with Hudson, channels his brother's spirit, and orchestrates a daring escape. The tension is at its peak, with lives hanging in the balance and the clock ticking down.

Hostages and Heroics

The hostage situation explodes—literally—as Nick and Mrs. Penny crash through the air ducts, Riley subdues Hudson, and the bomb detonates. The escape is chaotic, with hostages fleeing, heroes emerging, and comic mishaps (like Griffin being tossed in a dumpster). Riley's courage and quick thinking save lives, while Nick's unwavering support and heroics cement their partnership. The aftermath is both triumphant and bittersweet, as the survivors reckon with what they've lost and what they've gained.

Aftermath and New Beginnings

In the aftermath, Riley and Nick reflect on the lessons learned. Family bonds are strengthened, wounds begin to heal, and new possibilities emerge. The mansion is considered as a new home and office, symbolizing a fresh start. Riley embraces her psychic gifts, finding purpose in helping others. The story ends with a sense of hope, humor, and love, as Riley and Nick look forward to whatever chaos—and adventure—life has in store.

Characters

Riley Thorn

Riley is a thirty-something woman with powerful psychic abilities she never wanted. Raised in a family of gifted women, she's spent most of her life trying to be normal, only to be repeatedly pulled into the supernatural and criminal. Riley is witty, compassionate, and deeply empathetic, but struggles with self-doubt and the fear of being defined by her powers. Her relationship with Nick Santiago is both a source of strength and conflict, as she navigates love, danger, and the responsibility of her gift. Over the course of the story, Riley grows from a reluctant participant to an active, courageous heroine, embracing her abilities and her role as a force for good.

Nick Santiago

Nick is a tough, street-smart private investigator with a heart of gold and a penchant for overprotection. Haunted by past failures and the near-loss of Riley, he is determined to keep her safe at all costs—even if it means tracking her phone or hiring her neighbor to spy on her. Nick's love for Riley is fierce and unwavering, but his need for control often clashes with her independence. He is both comic and heroic, providing muscle, humor, and emotional support. Nick's journey is one of learning to trust, let go, and accept that love means risking loss.

Elanora Basil

Elanora is Riley's formidable grandmother and the president of the North American Psychics Guild. She is stern, demanding, and unyielding, believing that psychic gifts are a sacred responsibility. Elanora's tough love pushes Riley to embrace her powers, often through grueling "boot camps" and harsh criticism. Beneath her steely exterior is a deep love for her family and a desire to see them fulfill their potential. Elanora's presence is both intimidating and inspiring, serving as a catalyst for Riley's growth.

Gabe

Gabe is a massive, kind-hearted man who serves as Riley's spiritual mentor and friend. He is both physically imposing and emotionally sensitive, often caught between Elanora's expectations and his own desires (especially his feelings for Riley's sister, Wander). Gabe's role is to help Riley navigate her psychic abilities, but he struggles with his own sense of purpose and the tension between duty and personal happiness. His journey is one of self-acceptance and finding balance between service and self-care.

Detective Kellen Weber

Kellen is a dedicated detective and Nick's former partner, still reeling from the unsolved disappearance of his sister. He is pragmatic, skeptical of the supernatural, but willing to accept Riley's help when the case demands it. Kellen's relationship with Nick is a mix of camaraderie and rivalry, and his interactions with Riley are marked by respect and exasperation. His arc is one of learning to trust unconventional methods and confronting his own grief.

Mrs. Penny

Mrs. Penny is an eighty-something roommate with a penchant for disguises, bullhorns, and vigilante justice. She is both a source of chaos and unexpected wisdom, often serving as Nick's eyes and ears (sometimes literally, as his hired spy). Her antics—ranging from gun mishaps to fart jokes—provide levity, but she is also fiercely loyal and surprisingly resourceful in a crisis.

Wander

Wander is Riley's gentle, yoga-instructor sister, gifted with a "psychic snoot" that can sense emotions and scents. She is the family's emotional anchor, always seeking harmony and understanding. Her budding romance with Gabe is sweet and tentative, complicated by Elanora's disapproval. Wander's presence is calming, and her support is crucial to Riley's journey.

Bianca Hornberger

Bianca is the murder victim whose death sets the plot in motion. Obsessed with appearances and online validation, she is both comic and tragic—a woman who sacrifices real connection for superficial fame. Her toxic marriage and shallow priorities make her both a suspect and a symbol of the dangers of living for the approval of strangers. In death, Bianca's spirit provides Riley with crucial clues and a cautionary tale.

Hudson Neudorfer

Hudson is the unassuming Channel 50 staffer who becomes the story's antagonist. Driven by the suicide of his brother Jackson, Hudson targets online bullies and toxic personalities, believing himself to be a hero. His methods—glitter bombs, murder, and hostage-taking—are both bizarre and chilling. Hudson's psychological complexity is rooted in trauma, grief, and a misguided sense of justice.

Chelsea Strump

Chelsea is Riley's neighbor and one of the killer's intended victims. She is the embodiment of self-righteousness and online toxicity, obsessed with appearances and quick to judge others. Her interactions with Riley are both comic and infuriating, and her eventual victimization serves as a turning point in the story's exploration of justice, empathy, and redemption.

Plot Devices

Dual Mysteries and Interwoven Threads

The story employs dual mysteries—the murder of Bianca Hornberger and the disappearance of Larry Rupley—that at first seem unrelated but are gradually revealed to be connected by the killer's pattern. This structure allows for multiple points of tension, red herrings, and the gradual convergence of clues. The use of glitter bombs as a signature links the cases and provides both comic and sinister undertones.

Psychic Visions and Foreshadowing

Riley's psychic visions are a key device, providing both clues and misdirection. The visions are often fragmented, requiring interpretation and collaboration with her spirit guides and family. Foreshadowing is woven throughout—visions of danger, hints of the killer's trauma, and the ticking clock of the glitter bombs—building suspense and anticipation.

Comic Relief and Domestic Chaos

The story is rich with comic relief—eccentric roommates, family squabbles, and absurd situations (like self-defense boot camp and code words like "Sparkle Poo"). These moments provide respite from the tension and deepen the reader's investment in the characters' lives. The domestic chaos mirrors the unpredictability of the investigations and underscores the theme that life is messy, but worth living.

Ensemble Cast and Interpersonal Dynamics

The large, interconnected cast allows for a tapestry of relationships—romantic, familial, and platonic—that enrich the narrative. The interplay between Riley and Nick, the Thorn and Santiago families, and the oddball roommates creates a sense of community and belonging. These dynamics are both a source of conflict and the foundation for resilience and healing.

The Hero Complex and Moral Ambiguity

The killer's hero complex—avenging his brother's suicide by targeting bullies—raises questions about justice, revenge, and the cost of dehumanizing others. The story resists easy answers, showing that even well-intentioned actions can have devastating consequences. The moral ambiguity of the killer's actions forces the characters (and readers) to confront uncomfortable truths about empathy, accountability, and the power of words.

Analysis

Lucy Score's Riley Thorn and the Corpse in the Closet is a masterful blend of cozy mystery, romantic comedy, and supernatural adventure, anchored by a cast of unforgettable characters and a narrative that balances humor with genuine emotional stakes. At its core, the novel is a meditation on the power—and peril—of empathy. Riley's psychic abilities are both a metaphor and a literal tool for understanding others, forcing her to confront the pain, loneliness, and toxicity that can fester beneath the surface of everyday life. The story's exploration of online bullying, trauma, and the search for justice is both timely and nuanced, refusing to paint villains and victims in black and white. Instead, Score invites readers to consider the ripple effects of cruelty and the redemptive potential of compassion. The domestic chaos, comic relief, and romantic subplots provide warmth and levity, reminding us that even in the darkest moments, love, laughter, and community are our greatest defenses. Ultimately, the novel is a celebration of resilience—the courage to face our fears, embrace our gifts, and choose connection over isolation. Riley's journey from reluctant psychic to empowered heroine is both inspiring and deeply human, offering a hopeful vision of what it means to live—and love—fully, even in a world full of chaos and glitter.

Last updated: December 6, 2025