Mr. & Mrs. Shift continues the story of Hazel Kinsey, a witch and small town police chief. Her wedding/bonding day with the love of her life, Ford, haMr. & Mrs. Shift continues the story of Hazel Kinsey, a witch and small town police chief. Her wedding/bonding day with the love of her life, Ford, has finally arrived; however, when her wedding planner tries to take her out, Hazel realizes the day of her dreams is going to be a nightmare.
Apparently the day for the magical soul bonding ceremony only happens once a year, so this explains why Hazel is determined to continue with the ceremony despite multiple assassination attempts, the death of her wedding planner, and the disappearance of the magical shawl needed for the ceremony. It’s a non-stop, madcap adventure as Hazel tries to pretend everything is okay. I enjoyed the silly nature of the story, but wish the author had taken a little more time leading up to the day and developing the scenes.
The mystery of who is trying to take out Hazel before she’s bonded to Ford is a bit of a “red shirt” situation; however, the why isn’t clear until it’s all explained by the villain’s monologue, confessing their dastardly plan.
Overall, the series continues to entertain me, despite the short nature of the books. Mr. & Mrs. Shift forwards the romantic story arc while reinforcing the fact that Hazel is not a universally-loved witch.
Taking place a several months after the conclusion of the first book, Rogue Coven opens with the annual Halloween prank war between the witches and shTaking place a several months after the conclusion of the first book, Rogue Coven opens with the annual Halloween prank war between the witches and shifters. Hazel, now chief of police, has made a home for herself and her familiar Tizzy, with her true mate Ford. When a large sinkhole opens in the center of town, Hazel is tasked with figuring out if it’s a prank gone wrong or something worse.
Hazel seems to have settled into her new life and role as police chief; however, there are still those who were friends of Adele who don’t trust or like Hazel, accusing her of murdering the evil witch. I like that things aren’t perfectly smooth sailing for Hazel, who still hasn’t made progress on improving her spell casting. The perky heroine needs her flaws to keep the character grounded and relatable.
The mystery of the rather large hole, which is messing with the witches’ magic, isn’t lengthy or difficult to solve, but I enjoyed watching Hazel gather her team and follow the clues. The mystery also allows George to develop a backstory regarding the founding of the magical Paradise Falls. This also brings important news about Hazel’s BFF Lily, which adds some light emotional conflict for Hazel.
I am really enjoying the Witchin’ Impossible Cozy Mysteries series so far. The stories are quick and fun, with romance, humor, and a bit of action.
Hazel Kinsey is a non-practicing witch who left her magical home town nearly twenty years ago, just after high school, and never looked back. Now she’Hazel Kinsey is a non-practicing witch who left her magical home town nearly twenty years ago, just after high school, and never looked back. Now she’s a successful FBI agent, and the only magic she’s in contact with is her flying squirrel familiar, Tizzy. But when her childhood best friend Lily calls her begging her to return home to solve the murder of her younger brother, Hazel makes her way to Paradise Falls.
Witchin’ Impossible is the first story in George’s entertaining paranormal cozy/romance series. The book introduces Hazel as the intelligent yet magic-challenged witch who, once back home, quickly realizes the last twenty years of her life have been lacking. With her FBI training she jumps right into the case, which quickly evolves into a larger conspiracy. The story also presents several town denizens, including Ford, Hazel’s long-time crush who still turns her heart inside out.
Even though overall the book is a light read, George adds a couple layers of emotional complexity to Hazel. First, there is her broken relationship with Lily. When Hazel left, she cut ties with her best friend, who had to stay in town to raise her younger brother after the sudden death of their parents. I appreciate that Hazel realizes how selfish she’d been. We also see Hazel reconnect with her father who’s been in prison for killing Hazel’s mother just before she graduated.
WItchin’ Impossible is a fun, quick read. The mystery and characters are interesting and engaging. I liked Hazel and enjoyed her flaws. I love the twist that brings Ford and Hazel together, and while they are quick to reach “I love you,” it’s explained with shifter biology and two decades of being in love without knowing why. By the end of the story, George has created a wonderful rag tag team of unlikely heroes, and I cannot wait to see what they tackle next.
Normally I love my time in Dead End, Florida, and while I had a fun time reading Eye on the Ball, there were a few issues that ultimately brought downNormally I love my time in Dead End, Florida, and while I had a fun time reading Eye on the Ball, there were a few issues that ultimately brought down my enjoyment of the story.
It’s time for the annual softball game between Riverton and Dead End, and the rivalry seems to be higher than usual. But when the Riverton captain goes missing, blame is put on the Dead End captain, and Jack and Tess are determined to get to the bottom of it.
A big softball game isn’t the only thing happening in Tess’s world. There is also a potentially enchanted perfume bottle, a very pregnant Rose with her husband Alejandro, and then there are the piglet races. Having multiple story arcs in one book is nothing new for the series; however, I felt that most of it was just a distraction that didn’t add value to the overall plot. The case of the perfume bottle was tossed in for humor, but it fell flat and seemed to have continuity errors.
I was also put off when Tess up and leaves her own home when she’s entertaining guests. It seems so out of character; not because she got upset, but that she would be so rude and childish. At first I thought it was going to be used as a mechanism for ultimately uncovering the bad guy, but nope… it was just a diversion. And there are a couple other instances where Tess’s behavior just seemed odd or not in-line with her character development to date.
I did enjoy the softball story, although I got frustrated that Jack (a P.I.!!), Tess, and Sheriff Susan didn’t ask the right questions that even I could see.
In the end, I will continue to read the Tiger’s Eye Mysteries because they are silly fun, but Eye on the Ball is not one of my favorites.
Big Witch Energy continues the story of magic and three new witches on Starfall Point, a small island off the coast of Michigan’s lower peninsula. AltBig Witch Energy continues the story of magic and three new witches on Starfall Point, a small island off the coast of Michigan’s lower peninsula. Although the book continues the series-arching plot surrounding Shadow House, the story focuses on long-time island resident, Caroline, one of the three new witches. Caroline’s family is cursed and cannot leave the island for more than a day or they die, so instead of heading to college, Caroline said goodbye to her high school love, Ben, and stayed to work at the family’s bar. Nearly 20 years later, Ben returns to the island, moving his kids and himself back into his childhood home.
Ben and Caroline’s romance is sweet; neither quite getting over their romance despite the time and separation. However, there is some baggage from when they were younger, and the couple needs to work through it. Ben’s kids love Caroline and embrace the magic and quirkiness of Shadow House. It’s all pretty easy and fun. And while both kids come across a bit too mature for their age, it’s a bit off-putting when Josh, the younger of the two, gives his dad spot-on relationship advice.
I enjoy the expanding mythology of magic surrounding Shadow House, although there are still way more questions than answers. I like how the magic is bringing this found family closer together. It is good that Ben finds out about the ghosts and magic early on, especially since his kids seem to possess some abilities. I like that Edison (first book) now has a “mundane bro” to chat with about the magic.
Narration: The story is shared via the alternating third person POVs of Caroline and Ben. Hamilton voices Ben’s POVs. His voice is pleasantly deep and fitting for the large doctor. He adjusts for gender with some success, as his voice is pretty deep. His accented voices are very successful. Ronconi brings her usual, upbeat enthusiasm to the role of Caroline. She also adjusts appropriately for gender, accent, and age. Both narrators don’t make a huge distinction between characters of the same gender, and at times during dialogue I could get confused as to who was speaking.
I found myself engaged in the story and romance of Big Witch Energy and enjoy the quaint island setting. The story is not over, and with how this one ends, I worry for Alice, the group’s third and final member.
Crystals, Belladonna, and Murder shares the story of Ellie, divorce mother of an adult child with mental and medical issues. Ellie left corporate AmerCrystals, Belladonna, and Murder shares the story of Ellie, divorce mother of an adult child with mental and medical issues. Ellie left corporate America and the big city to start a simpler life filled with purpose, so she and her daughter opened a cat rescue in small town Texas. However after five years of quiet, life gets complicated when an elderly local is arrested for killing her husband, and Ellie is tasked with taking care of her aging cat, Belladonna, and the magical tray which allows Belladonna to speak to Evie and Ellie.
I love a good cozy mystery and was excited to give this new-to-me author a try. While Crystals, Belladonna, and Murder had a decent mystery, I felt the overall execution of the story falls flat. The magical item that allows communication with Belladonna is too convenient, and the characters are mostly two-dimensional.
The silver and crystal tray with a hidden compartment is an odd magical item, and there is no explanation of its origins or how Fiona came to possess it. When Belladonna stands on it, she can speak human words, with a large vocabulary and keen understanding of the English language. It’s possible that Fiona taught her 20-year-old cat a thing or two; however it’s implied it works with other cats, too. I find it a bit of a stretch that even though the cats aren’t magical, they have the ability for complex reasoning and language.
Much of the front end of the book is spent learning about Ellie and her daughter, Evie. Unfortunately, I found the pair boring. Evie’s disabilities coupled with Ellie’s reactions felt over the top at times. While it may be an accurate picture of a family with an adult child with disabilities, the time spent on the characters without discussion of the murder detracted from the mystery. Both individuals are fairly simple without a lot of character development. However, Ellie’s worries over a windfall of cash and the reasons she moved to the town and opened up the shelter are genuine and the only time I felt her character was more.
Narration: The story is shared in the first person, past tense of Ellie. The narrator has a softer, slow voice that suits the weary Ellie. The speed of the narrator gives the dialogue a very purposeful sense, even when it’s just banter. Kelly alters each voice based on gender and age, although some characters sound similar. Males are deeper, but also slower, which often comes across as someone with speech issues. The narrator significantly alters her voice for Evie, but she comes across as a preteen rather than a mid-20-something.
In the end, there are a lot of clues tossed around, but they don’t necessarily tie together in an effective manner. Crystals, Belladonna, and Murder held promise, but ultimately disappointed.
Several months ago, Ursula made a wish for happiness, and her fiancé left her at the alter. The impact of being stood up wrecked her confidence and abSeveral months ago, Ursula made a wish for happiness, and her fiancé left her at the alter. The impact of being stood up wrecked her confidence and ability to make decisions, so she left her job and is working as a medium for her Mama’s shop. Tired of pitying looks and going no where, Ursula makes herself a list of to dos to take back her life.
Fae Prince Xavier has been cursed (enchanted?) to find the “perfect kiss” after he made some disparaging remarks about love to the Fae Queen. He’s had a number of dates but none lead to a kiss. Striking up an easy friendship, Ursula promises to help Xavier find his kiss so he can return home.
Kiss and Spell is Martin’s follow up to the delightful Witchful Thinking, which introduced Ursula and her magical cousins. In that first book, readers witness Ursula’s wish and the subsequent disintegration of her wedding plans. After reading Witchful Thinking, it seemed that Ursula was destined for her fiancé’s twin brother, but Marcus doesn’t even show up in Kiss and Spell. Honestly, I was a bit shocked, and this may be part of the reason I never got behind Ursula and Xavier as a couple.
While Kiss and Spell has some magical moments, I found it hard to relate to both main characters and the pair as a couple. Part of the issue is that readers don’t witness the time after Ursula’s failed wedding and her loss of confidence. Rather than being allowed to experience Ursula’s pain, readers are told she’s gone through a lot. I also cannot understand why Ursula, who blames that fateful wish on her ruination, is so obsessed with continuing to make different wishes. It’s just so contradictory. Finally, Ursula isolates herself from her cousins, which were a big part of the first book. While I can understand some embarrassment over her behavior, I don’t understand why she has cut her family off so completely.
Xavier comes off as formal and cold at first. He’s kind, but keeps everything at a distance. Even after we get to know him and the pair become friendly, Ursula continues to call him “Highness” and he calls her “Madame” which enforces a formality and distance between the pair in my mind. Additionally, readers are told that weeks go by, and the author doesn’t share the experiences that allow the pair to bond and become friends. I didn’t feel them growing closer, even though I was told they were.
In the end, Kiss and Spell was a disappointment, especially after I enjoyed the first book so much.
My Rating: C/C- Review copy provided by Publisher Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About...more
Picking up a few days after the conclusion of the previous book, Nat and her family are on the run, trying to protect Nat from Diana’s vicious hellhouPicking up a few days after the conclusion of the previous book, Nat and her family are on the run, trying to protect Nat from Diana’s vicious hellhounds while searching for a magic seed that will spawn a champion to help protect her.
While I didn’t expecting it heading into this book, it appears that Ferocious Flea Market Dragons may be the final book in the Flea Market Magic Mysteries. Overall, this was a decent wrap up to the series-long storyline of Diana the Huntress going after Nat. I loved seeing all of her family and friends come together in support of Nat, who has always been there for everyone else. She’s no longer a weak, lone wolf, but a strong alpha female. She’s made peace with her issues (while continuing to work with Dr. Frank and the group), and she’s confident in her relationships with others. I enjoyed watching Nat over the course of two series become the person she is now.
While I was pleased with the general direction of the book, some of the individual events felt isolated, giving the story a bit of a choppy feel. First, a big deal is made over the fact that the entire family goes on the run, yet they literally go a few states away and settle down in a group of cabins. There they solve a mystery, pick up the magic seed, and head home. That’s not “going on the run” in my book. And within that time, they take on the task of figuring out who/what is killing fae, but then we find out the townsfolk knew all along. The entire plotline seemed a bit forced.
I also didn’t love how Nat and Diana resolved their issues. It seemed a bit anti-climactic, other than the battle with the hellhounds, which are defeated in a manner that was confusing for me.
In the end, while I did like the book and enjoy the series, Ferocious Flea Market Dragon didn’t flow well from beginning to end, making it hard to follow at times. I also didn’t enjoy the overuse of magic and the ease with which some big conflicts were resolved. With that said, I will pick up and read any future titles set in this world because I enjoy the characters so much.
Wesley and Sebastian are on a boat bound for New York when they receive a cryptic cable from Jade. However, when they arrive, they discover that Jade,Wesley and Sebastian are on a boat bound for New York when they receive a cryptic cable from Jade. However, when they arrive, they discover that Jade, Zhang, Arthur, and Rory have all mysteriously left town. Additionally, an acquaintance of Wesley’s who is loosely linked to paranormal artifacts is in town, causing Wesley and Sebastian to worry for their missing associates.
Once a Rogue not only continues Wesley and Sebastian’s romance, but carries forward the paranormal intrigue which began in the original Magic in Manhattan series. Sebastian and Wesley need help understanding the brooch relic which seems to be draining Sebastian, and they look to Jade for answers. Ties to old enemies are surfacing and present a terrible danger to our heroes. The story is an exciting adventure from beginning to end as the pair follows bread crumbs to uncover what is going on with their friends. It’s a journey of discovery - finding out more about themselves, about love, and finding true friendships. I was engaged the entire time and love how it all worked out.
After not exactly liking Wesley, Lord Fine, in the original series, I absolutely ADORE him now. He’s wormed his way into my heart. He and Sebastian are so lovely together. Both are sweet and kind-hearted, even when Wesley protests he’s not. They care about one another and therefore each wants to be the best version of himself for the other. That means compromise and going outside comfort zones, and I love that both are willing to do so openly for the other.
Other than some awkward scenes regarding an obvious miscommunication surrounding Arthur being Wesley’s ex, Once a Rogue flowed well. I was engaged the entire time and love how it all worked out. I hope the author writes a follow up story with the whole gang working together (and maybe capped off with a wedding!)
My Rating: A- Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About Review copy provided by Netgalley...more
When the Crow’s Away continues the story of witchy B&B owner Brynn. Having recently revived her ability to talk to ghosts, Brynn is anxious to help a When the Crow’s Away continues the story of witchy B&B owner Brynn. Having recently revived her ability to talk to ghosts, Brynn is anxious to help a recently departed connect with a love one. Meanwhile, Brynn’s aunts are busy playing matchmakers, worried Brynn is lonely after the death of her husband a couple years ago.
Brynn hasn’t had much chance to use her magic until Mr. Sweete’s ghost shows up and insists he was murdered by the wife of his business partner. Brynn is determined to find out what happened to Mr. Sweete, even if it looks like he died from natural causes.
When the Crow’s Away is an enjoyable follow up to In the Company of Witches. Brynn continues to mature in both powers and character development. I love her tenacity and desire to help Mr. Sweete, including the sometimes hard lessons she endures along the way. The mystery has twists and turns and a satisfying conclusion.
One aspect of the story that I didn’t love was the aunt’s interference and insistence that she needs to move on from the loss of her husband. I became really annoyed at Izzy and her machinations to set up Brynn with any guy. Brynn is no longer so dark and down, and she participates in the day to day activities at the inn. Why does she need to be in love or have a man? I didn’t care for this message.
Narration: The story is shared via first person POV of Brynn. The narrator has a youthful, energetic voice that suits Brynn. She alters her voice based on gender and age for the dialogue of all other characters, making each unique. I was impressed with her performance of the two aunts: bold and gruff for Nora, while soft and soothing for Izzy. I really enjoyed how the narrator added effects to make voices that are far away sound as such etc.
Overall, I enjoyed my return visit to Evenfall and spending time with Brynn and her aunts. My early annoyances with the aunts and their matchmaking was put to rest as the story progressed. I look forward to finding out what the new man in town means for Brynn!
As Claire turns 60, she reflects on her life. Her husband recently left her for a much younger woman, her overprotective son doesn’t really listen to As Claire turns 60, she reflects on her life. Her husband recently left her for a much younger woman, her overprotective son doesn’t really listen to her, and she avoids conflict with every decision. When Claire is confronted with fact that magick exists and she was chosen to serve the Morrigan as Crone, she can’t decide if she’s senile or the butt of a joke. However, every attempt to return to her “normal” life is met with danger and death. Now Claire must decide if she can embrace her new powers in time to save herself and those she loves.
I love the premise of Becoming Crone! As a woman closer to 60 than 40, I love the idea that something special awaits us as we mature. If Claire ever dreamed that there was a magical world waiting for her, she’d squelched it long ago. Dreams die under the weight of responsibility and the disapproving harping of loved ones.
The author utilizes this first book to introduce Claire, and the reader, to the many concepts of magick, the Morrigan, and witches. It’s a bit complex, and I still am not 100% certain I understand the bits and pieces. Claire is apprehensive and leery, which I understand and enjoy. However, her constant self-doubt clouds the truth that Keven the Gargoyle and Lucan the protective shifter attempt to teach her. The fact that Claire is a regular woman and has trouble accepting her new role is a plus to the plot, while also being distracting in that it went on a little too long, and I needed her to embrace her powers and kick butt.
One negative is that the story felt a bit disjointed as Claire tried to adjust. She’d start learning something or want to do something, and then would have to stop for various reasons, leaving me frustrated. She is isolated in a cabin in the woods with no efficient way to contact anyone or even buy new clothing. The cabin is cool but extremely inconvenient. And I constantly wondered why not send someone to get her a phone, glasses, clothing, etc. I hope that is all fixed in the next book.
Overall, I enjoyed Becoming Crone and have already purchased the second story, A Gathering of Crones.
For all my issues with this series (Selene’s over-the-top snarky attitude, the fact that the last three books were actually one story), I really enjoyFor all my issues with this series (Selene’s over-the-top snarky attitude, the fact that the last three books were actually one story), I really enjoyed how this one ended. Originally, the author had planned to wrap up Cora and Selene’s stories with Talisman Tails; however, she’s since told fans that she’s enjoying the world too much and plans to continue.
As a standalone story, Talisman Tails fails; however, as a finale to the series-long story arc of what happened to Aunt Lavender, the book shines. The story is filled with adventure and insight, bringing the plotline to a very satisfying conclusion. And while Selene is as feisty as ever, she finds a way to let Cora know she cares. I also appreciate that the author finally allows time for Cora and Clint to talk, clearing the air for their eventual HEA.
While I really enjoyed the story, I still had issues. Firstly, at the end of the previous book, bad guy August refers to his boss as “her,” yet as soon as this one begins in the same scene, we find out that his boss is unknown developer, Winslow (he/him). While it’s a small oversight, it’s annoying none the less. Additionally, Selene continues to spew hateful words at everyone, including those she cares about. Yes, it’s her defense mechanism, but I’m tired of it. Finally, there are times when Cora notices something she deems off, but then the author never comes back to it to let us know what made Cora feel that way.
Narration: Ms. Ronconi continues to provide the voice of Cora and her friends. Shared in the first person POV of Cora, Ms. Ronconi provides an upbeat voice for Cora, matching emotion fitting to the story. Ms. Ronconi slightly alters each character’s voice based on age, gender, background, and species. There are times that some characters sound very similar. Selene’s voice is still awesome: a perfect fit for the annoying cat.
Overall, I enjoyed the Nine Lives Magic series, and recommend to fans of paranormal cozies, just be forewarned that the final three books are basically one story. I look forward to seeing where the author takes Cora next.
My Ratings: Story: B Narration: B+
Review copy provided by Publisher Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About...more
Willem is a warlock who has been banned from having a familiar and is stuck doing small spells while hiding out from a previous master. Penny, SecretaWillem is a warlock who has been banned from having a familiar and is stuck doing small spells while hiding out from a previous master. Penny, Secretary for the Society of Familiars, is facing a grim future of never being selected to work with a witch. When mutual friends put them together for some illegal, under-the-table magic, sparks fly.
What the Hex is the second book in the delightful Hex series. Having established her fascinating world of magic and introduced the characters in the first book, Ms. Clare is able to jump right into Penny and Willem’s story. The pair is like oil and water when they first meet. He’s been around the block and abused by a previous master. He likes his gray, orderly world. Penny is all sunshine and optimism, and the thought of being trapped as an unselected familiar scares her enough to break the rules. Both desperate to cast magic and a bit lonely, each is willing to bend a bit to fit with the other.
Due to the secret nature of their relationship, they pretend to date and be in love: FAKE RELATIONSHIP (my favorite trope). I love that the pair finds a kinship and trusts the other fairly quickly. This allows the pair to join forces against a common foe. Playing lovers while keeping a secret and growing into close friends, brings romantic feelings to the surface.
The story is filled with humor and cartoonish villains. It is campy and a lot of fun. But despite the silliness, both characters experience some hefty emotions and process previous turmoil. I enjoy the balance of the light and more serious moments.
Ms. Clare’s Hex series is a lot of fun, and I hope the author continues to pen romances set in the world.
My Rating: B+
Review copy provided by Netgalley Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About...more
Picking up at the immediate conclusion of the previous Nine Lives Magic book, Furry Fortunes continues the story left unfinished in Purr-fect Potions.Picking up at the immediate conclusion of the previous Nine Lives Magic book, Furry Fortunes continues the story left unfinished in Purr-fect Potions. Treasure hunter Tabitha Blake has been turned into a statue, taking away Cora and Selene’s only lead to find the missing Aunt Lavender.
While Furry Fortunes moves forward the plot involving Aunt Lavender, it remains unfinished yet again. Normally, I don’t mind a series-arching storyline spilling across multiple books; however, for the second book in a row, there is no standalone mystery or adventure for Cora. While I was more interested in this story than the previous one, I was still disappointed that the cozy series has turned into a serial mystery. I want to finish it, because I want to know what happened to Lavender, but I’m disappointed that the author has chosen not to make each book have a standalone mystery with a satisfying conclusion. I’m also disappointed in the extra drama added due to the break up with Clint. Finally, I continue to dislike Selene’s character; she is selfish and unnecessary petty and cruel at times.
Narration: Ms. Ronconi continues to provide the voice of Cora and her friends. Shared in the first person POV of Cora, Ms. Ronconi provides an upbeat voice for Cora, matching emotion fitting to the story. Ms. Ronconi alters each character’s voice based on age, gender, background, and species. And Selene’s voice is still awesome- a perfect fit for the annoying cat.
It’s my understanding that readers will finally discover what happened to Aunt Lavender in the next title, so I will try the next book. However, if the plot continues to drag on, it may be time to say goodbye to Cora.
My ratings: Story: C Narration: B+
Review copy provided by publisher Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About...more
Picking up a few weeks or so after the conclusion of the previous title, Hexes and Honey Buns finds Rosella working for the Winterspell Gazette and sePicking up a few weeks or so after the conclusion of the previous title, Hexes and Honey Buns finds Rosella working for the Winterspell Gazette and searching for her next big story. She receives an email from Marigold Prince, a prisoner convicted of killing her husband. She maintains she’s innocent and asks for Rosella’s help after reading her piece on the mermaid trafficking ring.
Using her investigative skills, Rosella starts looking into Marigold’s case. This gives her purpose, while keeping her from worrying about Orion, who is on a secret case for the Order. Ella continues to debate with herself the merits of staying in Winterspell and her long-distance relationship with Orion. I am enjoying this series because we see Ella grow a bit in each book. She’s not stagnating, but rather making decisions and moving forward. She’s also learning to seek counsel from her family and friends.
I enjoyed the whodunit mystery and following Ella as she interviews witnesses and pieces together the events leading up to Marigold’s late husband’s death. The mystery is smart, although in typical cozy fashion, the bad guy spills all when confronted. One of the things I love most about Ms. Garrett’s writing is her attention to detail. Every story, every scene, the narrator paints a picture of sights, sounds, and smells. This is so effective for the audiobook format, bringing the setting and story to life.
I was a little frustrated with a couple aspects of Hexes and Honey Buns. The first involves a small subplot that is raised but then dropped. If there is no follow-through, then it should have been edited out. The second is the relationship between Ella’s family and her nasty cousin, Chloe. Chloe and her mom are just horribly mean to Ella and her sisters, and I just don’t see the need for it. I cringed every time Chloe made an appearance and would prefer her character to go away or evolve.
Narration: The story is shared in the first person POV of heroine Ella. Ms. Ronconi performs with an upbeat cadence, using a friendly, girl-next-door quality that suits Ella. She keeps the story moving with a steady flow. She alters her voice for each character’s dialogue based on gender, age, and species (when called for), making it obvious different characters are speaking. Her male characters are generally deeper.
Overall, I really enjoy Ms. Garrett’s cozies. They continue to provide a delightful story with a good balance of mystery and personal relationships, lots of detail, quaint settings, and enjoyable characters. Although there can be a few bumps, I know what I’m getting, and I love her formula.
Ratings: Story: B Narration: B+
Review copy provided by publisher Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About...more
Witches Get Stuff Done is the first in a new paranormal mystery/romance series by Molly Harper. I adore the plucky heroines and silly humor found in MWitches Get Stuff Done is the first in a new paranormal mystery/romance series by Molly Harper. I adore the plucky heroines and silly humor found in Ms. Harper’s other paranormal series, and Starfall Point appears to follow in the footsteps of those stories. The book introduces Riley Denton Everett, who finds herself on the small island of Starfall Point in hopes of meeting the sister of her recently deceased mother - an aunt she never knew existed. Although her aunt passes before Riley makes it to her home at Shadow House, Riley learns much about the legacy of the Denton family through clues and notes left by her aunt. As Riley adjusts to life on the small island, she makes friends and meets Edison, someone who could be special, if they could only get along.
Witches Get Stuff Done is a solid start to the series. The setting of Starfall Point is quaint and whimsical, and filled with mysteries. I enjoyed learning about the island through Riley’s eyes. I love that she finds her people and a sense of belonging she hasn’t experienced before. Edison is a great match; they both have experienced loss and are alone. But his fears that he might lose Riley causes Edison to be too protective of his feelings, causing some problems.
The story is a paranormal mystery as Riley learns to follow the clues left by her aunt and uncover the secrets of Shadow House. Additionally, some one is trying to break into the house, adding another layer of mystery and intrigue. But it is also a romance, with Riley and Edison finding their way to an HEA. Overall, the story is light with an edge - not all the ghosts are friendly and considerate. There is an overarching storyline regarding a dangerous nemesis that has only begun.
Narration: The story is shared via the alternating third person POVs of Riley and Edison, although it felt like Riley had more POVs and it was really her story with Edison in a supporting role. Teddy Hamilton voices Edison’s POVs. His voice is deep, and actually a bit deeper than I would have expected for Edison, but it works well and is a pleasant voice to listen to. He adjusts for gender with some success, as his voice is pretty deep. His accented voices are very successful. Amanda Ronconi brings her usual, upbeat enthusiasm to the role of Riley. She also adjusts appropriately for gender, accent, and age. Both narrators don’t make a huge distinction between characters of the same gender, and at times during dialogue I could get confused as to who was speaking.
In the end, I enjoyed this new book and series, and look forward to the next audiobook, due out in 2023. I wonder if the next book will once again focus on Riley and Edison, or switch to one of Riley’s coven sisters and her prospective mate. Either way, it promises to be a good story.
Jen (That's What I'm Talking About)
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Books:
paranormal
(112)
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