Review - Snuffed Out

 This is a debut novel of new magical cozy mystery series that will be released Jan 10, 2023.  It has a touch of magic and cats.

Author: Valona Jones

Copyright: December 2011 (Berkley) 320 pgs

Series: 1st in Magic Candle Shop Mysteries

Sensuality: off-page intimate relationships

Mystery Sub-genre: Suspense

Main Characters: Twin sisters Tabby and Sage

Setting: Modern day, Savannah Georgia

Obtained Through: Publisher for honest review

Book Blurb: "Twin sisters Tabby and Sage co-own a candle shop, but will it all go up in flames in Valona Jones’ series debut, perfect for fans of Amanda Flower and Bailey Cates.

30-year-old fraternal twins Tabby and Sage Winslow own The Book and Candle Shop in Savannah. Sage is hot-headed and impulsive while Tabby is calm and collected, making them the perfect partnership. When  one of their customers is found murdered, from a blow to the head, that partnership is put to the test.

Blithe McAdam had been seen in a heated argument with shop clerk Gerard, which immediately makes him suspect number one. The twins are convinced of Gerard’s innocence and start digging into Blithe’s past. But no one is cooperating. The neighbor who found the body isn’t talking, medical examiner Quig won’t give any details about the autopsy, and nasty rumors begin surfacing about the drowning of Blithe’s father years earlier—evidence that could seal Gerard’s fate.

 Tabby and Sage dig desperately for the truth. But it’s not only their friend who’s in peril. With the clock ticking, the twins find themselves in the grip of an unseen and deadly energy that has seeped into their midst—and in the sights of a ruthless killer." 

My Thoughts:  Tabby is the point-of-view main character I took a few chapters to warm up to.  Quig (Dr. Quigsly), a long time acquintance, is her potential romantic interest but she prefers to keep their relationship secret.  Sage, the twin sister, was a hard character for me to relate to. Actually I didn't like her for most of the book but she did grow by the finish.  I enjoyed the visit from their Auntie O who helped them investigate and hope she is a recurring character in some form.  

The magic element is quite unique and took a little bit for me to get into how it works.  The mystery had enough questions to keep me reading and the climax had some tense moments although was over quickly.  These thirty-year-old women have off-page intimate relationships with the men in their lives. This is still a cozy with no details on the page, but in case that makes a difference, be aware.  

For those wanting older than a twenty-something main character, this might be an answer. I think this new series has potential and I'm looking forward to the next book to see how the twins and storylines develop.  

Rating:  Excellent - Loved it! Buy it now and put this author on your watch list

Review - Mrs. Morris and the Witch

I found this series and have been skipping around reading it.  It is a good series for approaching Halloween.  See what you think.

1) Mrs. Morris and the Ghost (click here)

6) Mrs Morris and the Pot of Gold (click here)

I am reviewing the second in the series today, hope you enjoy.

Author: Traci Wilton

Copyright: April 2020 (Kensington Cozies) 219 pgs

Series: 2nd in Salem B&B Mysteries

Sensuality: n/a

Mystery Sub-genre: Paranormal cozy mystery, amateur Sleuth

Main Character: Charlene Morris, new B&B owner

Setting: Modern day, Salem, Massachusetts

Obtained Through: Publisher for honest review

Book Blurb: "Halloween is the biggest holiday of the year in Salem, Massachusetts—but when B&B owner Charlene Morris finds the dead body of a witch, it spells trouble . . .

Charlene, recently widowed, has renovated her historic mansion just in time to greet guests arriving for the town’s annual Halloween festivities. She’s lucky to have a helpful staff to provide support—as well as a handsome ghost named Jack standing invisibly by her side.

Unfortunately, while the revelers head out on haunted tours, have their fortunes told, or grab a drink at Brews and Broomsticks, a killer walks among them. When Charlene discovers Morganna, a local Wiccan, dead in her shop, she starts getting cozy with the local coven, looking for clues to locate the crafty culprit. Salem may be famous for the false accusations of witchery in centuries past, but this time someone is genuinely guilty—of murder . . ." 

My Thoughts:

Charlene, recently moved from Chicago and is still missing her deceased husband but she is adapting to her new life in historic Salem as a B&B owner. Jack Strathmore is the extremely handsome ghost who owned the family mansion and chose to stay with Charlene when he could have "gone to the light".  Their relationship is enough for both of them at the moment which is a unique approach.  Will Johnson and wife Minnie are her small staff and delightful.  Detective Sam Holden, six foot tall resembling the actor Sam Elliot, is fond of Charlene but being patient.  Silva is her plush white cat who is a sweet cat with little antics.

In this book in the series, Salem is used and adds quite a bit to the story.  The plot was just complex enough to provide some twists. The climax was well done and provided some good chills and tension.

This has an enjoyable heroine, handsome flirty ghost, nicely developed murder mystery, and good pacing.  This is cozy goodness and an entertaining mystery. 

Rating:  Excellent - Loved it! Buy it now and put this author on your watch list

Review - Witch And Famous

I reviewed the first in this series of witchy mystery fun.  I didn't review the second but here is the third in the series and it doesn't disappoint. 

1) Bait and Witch

 

Author: Angela M. Sanders

Copyright: July 2022 (Berkley) 274 pgs

Series: 3rd in Witch Way Librarian Mystery series

Sensuality: Mature topics

Mystery Sub-genre: cozy paranormal mystery, amateur Sleuth

Main Characters: Josie Way, librarian and newfound witch 

Setting: Contemporary, small town Wilfred, Oregon 

Obtained Through: Publisher for honest review

Book Blurb:  "For a tiny town, picturesque Wilfred, Oregon, has everything, including an impressive library housed in a Victorian mansion, a touch of magic in new librarian and fledgling witch, Josie Way, a visiting movie star—and a curious tendency toward murder . . .

 

Josie and all of Wilfred are buzzing with excitement. A-list movie star Daphne Morris has chosen to interview Roz, assistant librarian and novelist, for her book club. But when the glamorous actress quickly charms both Roz’s long-time love and sheriff Sam, the object of Josie’s unrequited affection, Josie turns to the whispers from her beloved books for ideas on revising the plot. Yet soon there’s another twist . . .

 

At a party to celebrate the interview, Daphne’s personal chef is found dead in a scene that all too closely echoes one in Roz’s novel. It’s clear to Josie that someone’s idea of a happy ending means framing her friend. She’ll have to read between the lines with the help of the library’s enchanted stacks, guidance from her magical grandmother’s letters, and her cat familiar, Rodney, to solve this murder before someone decides to stage a deadly sequel . . ." 

My Thoughts:

Josie Way is a fun character learning to control her witchy powers.  She cares about her neighbors and movie star Daphne Morris is turning the town upside down.  Rodney, the cat familiar, is a delightful sidekick.  Josie looks into the murder while navigating the town drama in Daphne's wake, including her romantic interest being swept up by the star.  The plot had enough meat to keep my interest and serve up some twists.  The climax provided some good thrills to top off a solid mystery.  This is a fun mystery with humor and a satisfying plot. 

Rating:  Excellent - Loved it! Buy it now and put this author on your watch list 

Review - Mrs. Morris and the Pot of Gold

 Salem, Massachusetts, B&B owner Charlene Morris will need the luck of the Irish—and the help of a ghost—to unveil a hooded killer 

First book in the series is Mrs. Morris and the Ghost (click here) 

Author: Traci Wilton

Copyright: Aug 2022 (Kensington Books) 306 pgs

Series: 6th in Salem B&B Mysteries

Sensuality: n/a

Mystery Sub-genre: Paranormal cozy mystery, amateur Sleuth

Main Character: Charlene Morris, new B&B owner

Setting: Modern day, Salem, Massachusetts

Obtained Through: Publisher for honest review

Book Blurb: "Charlene has hired a van to ferry her B&B guests to an all-you-can-eat corned beef and cabbage dinner hosted by Salem’s Irish community at the Ancient Order of Hibernians club—but she should have booked a hearse. It’s never a good sign when the family black sheep drunkenly crashes a party by punching the guy dressed as a leprechaun. But things go from troublesome to fatal when Charlene stumbles upon a second brawl in an upper room—and this fight Connor Gallagher loses, his anonymous assailant rushing past Charlene, hidden by a hoodie.

 Now Detective Sam Holden has another homicide on his hands, with Charlene as the only eyewitness. Even if she can’t give the police sketch artist much to go on, Charlene is determined to ID the murderer, with the help of Dr. Jack Strathmore, the charming ghost who haunts her B&B. The answer lies in the motive, and to uncover that sleuth and spook will need to shine a light on Connor’s shady past—before the killer pulls another Irish goodbye . . ." 

Charlene, previously of Chicago, still misses her deceased husband but she has settled into her new life in historic Salem as a B&B owner. Jack Strathmore is the extremely handsome ghost who owned the family mansion and chose to stay with Charlene when he could have "gone to the light".  Their relationship is enough for both of them at the moment.  Will Johnson and Minnie, her small staff, are delightful as grounds maintenance and cook/housekeeper.  Avery is a teen who works part-time and has become like family to Charlene.  Detective Sam Holden is six foot and resembles the actor Sam Elliot, and is fond of Charlene but waiting for her grieving to end.  Silva is her plush white cat who is a sweet cat with little antics.  To complicate things further, Charlene's parents come for a surprise visit.  Charlene and her mother historically have a contentious relationship, so she isn't happy to see them.

The setting of Salem wasn't utilized particularly. Rather, the Irish annual celebration takes center stage in this outing.  The investigation takes place in and around caring for and entertaining her B&B guests.  The plot has some meaty aspects and the murderer isn't easy to detect.  There is plenty going on and keeps the readers interest.  The climax was nail biting and quite suspenseful.  

This is a perfect mix of tenacious heroine, flirty ghost, well developed murder mystery, and spot on writing.  This is a cozy goodness and the Jack makes a charming ghost for the ideal entertaining mystery.  I am now on a mission to read the ealier books I've missed.

Rating:  Excellent - Loved it! Buy it now and put this author on your watch list

Review - Phantoms & Felonies

I reviewed the first in this new series, Haunted Homicide (click here).  Now it is time for the second book in the series from Berkley.  I don't think this series is getting much publicity or push from Berkley, which is a shame because I find it delightful.  Continue to find out more about the second book in this new series.

Author: Lucy Ness

Copyright: April 2021 (Berkley) 284 pgs

Series: 2nd in Haunted Mansion Mystery series

Sensuality: n/a

Mystery Sub-genre: Amateur Sleuth, Light Paranormal Cozy

Main Characters: Avery Morgan, New manager of a prestigious women's club 

Setting: Contemporary, Portage Path, Ohio, thirty miles south of Cleveland

Obtained Through: Netgalley for honest review

Blurb Blurb: "When a local theater troupe puts on a new play at the club, manager Avery Morgan is excited. This is just the sort of event that's destined to bring in potential new members. Okay, millionaire banker Bob Hanover has more bucks than talent and has used his position to grab the lead role, but that seems like a small price to pay...until Bob is found dead backstage.

Bob rubbed many people the wrong way, but would anyone want him dead? The short answer to that is: Who wouldn't want him dead? His long-suffereing wife had to put up with years of womanizing. The show's playwright has been tricked out of his one great idea by Bob, who claimed it as his own work. And Bob bankrupted one of the town's small businessmen. The choices are many and the time to find the killer is running short.

Avery is working overtime to keep the club open and find the killer. Fortunately, she has help with the latter task. Clemmie Bow was once a singer in the speakeasy in the club's basement. Now she's a ghost who's also a top-notch detective. Together Clemmie and Avery will find the killer—even if it kills one of them."

My Thoughts:  Avery Morgan may have accepted she can talk to Clemie, but she isn't ready to let anybody-least of all her psychic aunt-know of her ability.  But she may not have any choice.

Clemie Bow, resident ghost from roaring 20s, gets more page time in this book and I love her. Sergeant Alterman, known as Oz, is a romantic interest in this slow burn romance.  I like how this is gradually developing.  Avery's psychic Aunt Rosemary makes a surprise visit and her character is fun and sweet.  I am enjoying these characters.  The historic manner house is a great setting for these mysteries and shines again.  In addition to the characters, the mystery is solid with plenty of suspects and motives to sift through and a gripping killer reveal make this a favorite cozy with a fun paranormal touch.  

Rating:  Excellent - Loved it! Buy it now and put this author on your watch list 

Review - In the Company of Witches

I found this when I was gathering Halloween-ish reads and didn't finish it soon enough.  But this book doesn't need the spooky holiday to read it.  The author, Auralee Wallace, also wrote the Otter Lake mystery series with St. Martin's Press that I will have to dive into now.   I am delighted to share my review of this new mystery series with you.

Author: Auralee Wallace

Copyright: Oct 2021 (Berkley) 336 pgs

Series: 1st in Evenfall Witches B&B Mystery series

Sensuality: mild

Mystery Sub-genre: Paranormal Cozy mystery, amateur Sleuth

Main Characters: Brynn Warren, Widow and witch who can commune with ghosts 

Setting: Contemporary, Evenfall Connecticut

Obtained Through: Netgalley for an honest review

Book blurb: "For four hundred years, the Warren witches have used their magic to quietly help the citizens of the sleepy New England town of Evenfall thrive. There's never been a problem they couldn't handle. But then Constance Graves--a local known for being argumentative and demanding--dies while staying at the bed and breakfast Brynn Warren maintains with her aunts. At first, it seems like an accident...but it soon becomes clear that there's something more sinister at work, and Aunt Nora is shaping up to be the prime suspect.

There's nothing Brynn wants more than to prove Nora's innocence, and it hurts her to know that even two years ago that might have been easier. Brynn, after all, is a witch of the dead--a witch who can commune with ghosts. Ghosts never remember much about their deaths, but Constance might remember something about her life that would help crack the case. But Brynn hasn't used her powers since her husband died, and isn't even sure she still can. Brynn will just have to hope that her aunts' magic and her own investigative skills will lead her to answers--and maybe back to the gift she once thought herself ready to give up forever."

Brynn Warren, has withdrawn from the world ever since she lost her husband, not really dealing with her grief. As a result, her ability to speak with the dead has left her.  Aunt Nora (Evanora) Warren is a garden witch, bold, rebellious, opinonated, and stubborn.  Aunt Izzy, is a kitchen witch, is nurturing, and kind.  Then there is Uncle Gideon who can see both the past and the future but it overwhelms him so he stays indoors like a hermit.  Nixie is a witch hunter who attempts to make friends with Brynn, claiming she just wants to be friends and see magic. Then there is the contentious family of the deceased Constance. Faustus is the family's Maine Coon cat and Dog is the crow that hangs out with the family.  They are fantastic additions.

Ivywood Hollow B&B is a lovely victorian home, yet Constance's Graves House, while being nearly a mirror of Ivywood is creepy and dilapidated.  The homes provide great settings for the story to unfold. Small town Evenfall sees its residents picking sides with either the Warrens or the Graves family as the finger points to Nora.  This does feel like a small town indeed.

The mystery is well done and unfolds amid Brynn dealing with her grief and anger over never getting to see her husband's ghost to say goodbye, and Nora's stubborness digging her hole deeper. Brynn's investigation moves forward as tensions rise in town.  Everything happening keeps the pages turning.

 The killer confrontation was simple but effective and showed the Warrens sticking together.  The wrap-up was touching and bittersweet.

My thoughts: There is a subtly presented drama about family and the difference between a supportive and nurturing family verses destructive interpersonal problems. This gave the cozy a bit more depth, along with Brynn dealing with her grief, without becoming too serious.  The witchy aspects are more like a lighter version of the movie "Practical Magic" if you removed the scary haunting. This is a great example of the character driven cozy mystery.  It's a delightful and well written story that demonstrates cozy mysteries are developing into a genre with more to contribute than solely a fun read.

Rating:  Near Perfect - Buy two copies: one for you and one for a friend. 

Here is a very short introduction to the author.

https://youtu.be/-CmPWQ1-BGw

Review - Bait and Witch

 “Zippy and fun, with just enough ambiance to satisfy readers seeking spooks and humor.”

—Kirkus Reviews

In my search for some paranormal mysteries for Halloween, I found this new cozy series.  Librarian Josie Way moved to small-town Oregon to lay low. Instead, thanks to newfound magic abilities—and a killer on the loose—she’s leapt out of the frying pan and into a cauldron of trouble . . .

Author: Angela M. Sanders

Copyright: Dec 2020 (Kensington Cozies) 338 pgs

Series: 1st in Witch Way Librarian Mystery series

Sensuality: Mature topics

Mystery Sub-genre: cozy paranormal mystery, amateur Sleuth

Main Characters: Josie Way, librarian and newfound witch 

Setting: Contemporary, small town Wilfred, Oregon 

Obtained Through: Library

Book Blurb: "Josie Way loved working among the Library of Congress’s leather-scented stacks—until she uncovered corruption and made herself a target. As Wilfred, Oregon’s new librarian, Josie can stay undercover until the case goes to court. But life in this little town isn’t as subdued as she expected. The library, housed in a Victorian mansion, is slated to be bulldozed. Still digesting the news that her safe haven is about to become scrap lumber, Josie discovers a body in the woods . . .

 Almost as shocking, Josie learns that she’s descended from a long line of witches—and her powers have suddenly sprung to life. With help from a spoiled alley cat who just may be her familiar, Josie’s thumbing through a catalog of suspects, hoping she can conjure a way to save her library—and her life . . ."

Josie Way is a strong willed gal who suddenly has magic powers as she is hiding for her life. She was easily likeable and relatable.  Rodney is the black cat that has adopted Josie and seems too smart for the average cat.  He steals the show and I can't get enough of Rodney! Darla is the Library Trustee who hired Josie and the owner/operator of Darla's Tavern and Diner as well as owner of the Magnolia Rolling Estates Trailer Park.  Sam Wilfred is the only living descendant of the "Wilfred family" the town was named after. His ancestor's abandoned the town and mill that supported the entire town, so the town hates the family.  Roslyn "Roz" Grover is Josie's right hand gal at library with a secret.  Sheriff Bert Dolby and sister are ever present in the story.  Lyndon Forster is the minimal-talk caretaker of the grounds and library.

The library grounds include a caretaker's cottage and the Big House that are the primary setting with Magnolia Rolling Estates Trailer Park and the Kirby river added.  I love the Library building, but living upstairs was a little unsettling at night. Great use of the old mansion/library. 

The mystery is fairly straight forward, who killed the woman found behind the library and who was she anyway?  Was the victim an assassin after Josie or did somebody mistake the woman for Josie?  Is Josie safe or not?  Is the killer a local? As the story unfolds, things get complicated.  Along with the subplots around Sam acting suspiciously, Roz's secret, the fight to save the library, and Josie's fear of her own powers, the pages flew by.

 The climax was somewhat tense and I had only begun suspecting the villain a couple chapters before the reveal, so great job there.  The wrap-up was great and solves a big problem unrelated to the murder.  

I found this debut of a new paranormal cozy series very enjoyable. The witchy aspects are well done for added oomph to the story. I was surprised at the level of development for the supporting cast. The mystery was well done with a great surprise killer that I really appreciated.  There was an added bonus of a hidden crime being solved in the midst of all this as well.  I also found the economic hard times of the town more true to life for small towns than the rosy image portrayed in most cozy mysteries while still keeping it charming.

Rating: Excellent - Loved it! Buy it now and put this author and series on your watch list

Review - Death and Daisies

Amanda Flower is the bestselling author of the Amish Quilt Shop Mysteries, Living History Museum Mysteries, India Hayes Mysteries, Magical Bookshop Mysteries, and the new Magic Garden Mysteries.  I reviewed the first in this new series, Flowers and Foul Play (click here).  I finally got around to the second book in the series and here is my review.

Author: Amanda Flower

Copyright: Nov 2018 (Crooked Lane Books) 308 pgs

Series: 2nd in Magic Garden  Mystery series

Sensuality: Mild

Mystery Sub-genre: Cozy Mystery with magical touches

Main Characters: Fiona Knox, recently relocated to Scotland

Setting: Modern day, Duncreigan Scotland

Obtained Through: Library

From the cover:  "Fiona Knox thought she was pulling her life back together when she inherited her godfather’s cottage in Duncreigan, Scotland—complete with a magical walled garden. But the erstwhile Tennessee flower shop owner promptly found herself puddle boot-deep in danger when she found a dead body among the glimmering blossoms. One police investigation later (made a trifle less unpleasant by the presence of handsome Chief Inspector Neil Craig), and Fiona’s life is getting back on a steady, though bewitched, track. Her sister Isla has just moved in with her, and the grand opening of her new spellbound venture, the Climbing Rose Flower Shop in Aberdeenshire, is imminent. 

But dark, ensorcelled clouds are gathering to douse Fiona’s newly sunny outlook. First, imperious parish minister Quaid MacCullen makes it undeniably clear that he would be happy to send Fiona back to Tennessee. Then, a horrific lightning storm, rife with terribly omen, threatens to tear apart the elderly cottage and sends Fi and Isla cowering under their beds. The storm passes, but then, Fi is called away from the Climbing Rose’s opening soiree when Kipling, the tiny village’s weak-kneed volunteer police chief, finds a dead body on the beach. 

The body proves difficult to identify, but Kipling is certain it’s that of the parish minister. Which makes Fiona, MacCullen’s new nemesis, a suspect. And what’s worse, Isla has seemed bewitched as of late…did she do something unspeakable to protect her sister? The last thing Fiona wanted to do was play detective again. But now, the rosy future she’d envisioned is going to seed, and if she and Craig can’t clear her name, her idyllic life will wilt away."

Fiona Knox is in the midst of opening her new flower shop when a murder takes place.  Not only does she need to ferret out the real killer who is among them, she discovers more about her relationship between her family and her godfather who left her the magic garden.  Isla, Fiona's sister, has suddenly moved in after her graduation and is a spoiled and pampered character.  Things don't go smoothly between the sisters either. Hamish, the rustic, unassuming, and down-to-earth caretaker of the property is a character I simply love.  Chief Inspector Neil Craig is the cop romantic interest.  And then there are the great animal characters including a mischievous blue-eyed fox that Fiona believes (somehow, someway) is her godfather Ian, a cat who adopted Fiona named Ivanhoe, and Hamish's companion red squirrel, Duncan, that are additional magical touches.

Duncreigan and the nearby town, Aberdeenshire, are charming and picturesque, adding atmospheric and delightful Scottish touches.  The ruins of an old stone church ruins that are to be preserved also lend some creepy additions to scenes.  Nicely done overall.  

The plot is all around who would kill the sanctimonious minister, because it was a minister after all.  The pacing had plenty to keep the story moving swiftly along.  The killer reveal was wonderfully suspenseful and couldn't have been better.  The wrap up answered final questions and was satisfying on all counts.  

Although it is traditionally published, there were a number of typos and out-of-place words.  Which goes to show it isn't just self-published works. That didn't effect the story for me any.  The magical touches are just enough to make the story delightful. This was a delightful second book in the series that is fast becoming one of my favorite cozies.  I can't wait for the next book

Rating: Excellent - Loved it, a fun read that had a good grip on me! Buy it now and put this author on your watch list 

Review - Prose and Cons

I reviewed the first book in the series, Crime and Poetry (click here), and this is fast becoming a "must read."  I am attempting to catch up on my past due reviews, I got behind with the holidays.  Whew.

Author: Amanda Flowers

Copyright: Dec 2016 (Berkley) 352 pgs

Series: 2nd in Magical Bookshop Mystery series

Sensuality: Mild

Mystery Sub-genre: Cozy Mystery with some paranormal elements
 
Main Character: Violet Waverly, graduate student in American Literature PhD program

Setting: Modern day, Cascade Springs - New York

Obtained Through: Publisher for honest opinion

From the book cover: October in Cascade Springs means tourists are pouring in for the annual Food and Wine Festival, and Daisy hopes to draw those crowds to the store. She asks Violet and the local writing group, the Red Inkers, to give a reading of the works of Edgar Allan Poe in the shop’s back garden to entertain the revelers. Everyone eagerly agrees.

Yet their enthusiasm is soon extinguished when Violet discovers one of the writers dead during the event. After the shop magically tells Violet she’ll need to rely on Poe’s works to solve the murder, she enlists the help of her trusty tuxedo cat, Emerson, and the shop’s crow, Faulkner. But they must act fast before someone else’s heart beats nevermore...

The gang is back with Violet, Grandmother Daisy, persistent Mayor/ex-boyfriend Nathan, tantalizing Police Chief David Rainwater, the writing group Red Inkers play a central role, and the whimsical crow Faulkner and cat Emerson continue to charm.  The character mix is slightly less eccentric and a bit more real than you might expect for a cozy while maintaining the lighter feel.  The characters are welcoming and draw you into their world.

The town continues to provide a rich tapestry for the backdrop and more believable than most "bustling" small towns because of its proximity to Niagara Falls.  I typically have a problem with the usual small town setting that manage small shops with employees and large events, since small towns I've visited struggle to keep shops open at all.  This is more likely in the story with the regular tourist draw of the Falls nearby.  Besides that, the Food and Wine Festival supplies a level of confusion and complication that was utilized nicely.

I was engaged from the first page and that was maintained throughout.  The maze of who the victim really was and possible killers made this second book in the series an iron-strong addition signaling the story-lines will only get better.  I have to say the murder weapon was a surprising twist in itself.  There is a subplot introduced that touches Violet personally that added a deeper dimension.  The balance between characters and plot is perhaps the reason the pacing seemed effortless and smooth.

This had a great killer reveal with a good twist.  I liked it because of the tension and danger that was well constructed, my favorite in a reveal/confrontation.  The wrap-up promises the personal subplot mentioned will be further developed and the Nathan vs. Daniel dilemma is moving towards Violet making a decision.

Ms Flowers writes a novel with finely balanced mix of plot and characters with judicious dashes of magical whimsy topped with a dollop of romance.  Kudos.

Rating:  Excellent - Loved it! Buy it now and put this author on your watch list

Review - Take the Monkey and Run

I was fortunate to discover this series with the debut novel.  I reviewed the first book in this series, Woof at the Door (click here), the second book A Tiger's Tale (click here), the third book Horse of a Different Killer (click here), and got an author interview (click here), and a guest post (click here.)  Today I am reviewing the fourth in the series.  Let's dive back into the Call of the Wilde mystery series.

Author: Laura Morrigan

Copyright: July 2016 (Berkley) 304 pgs

Series: 4th in Call of the Wilde Mystery series

Sensuality: Mild

Mystery Sub-genre:  Cozy with paranormal elements

Main Characters: Grace Wilde, Animal behaviorist who speaks with animals telepathically

Setting: Modern day, New Orleans

Obtained Through: Publisher for honest review

Grace Wilde is excited to head to New Orleans for her first “real” case as an animal telepath. She intends to help a woman find her missing sister, but when she attempts to communicate with her client’s cat, Coco.  But before her meeting with Anya the sister, Logan warns her that her client isn't who she says she is and to not show them what she can really do.  When Grace tries to see what the cat Coco has to share, she find a monkey involved somehow, but even the monkey is elusive.

Grace was nervous about a job using her special skills then finds she is over her head with hidden agendas.  She is still dealing with relationship dynamics with Kai.  Sergeant Kai Duncan, Grace's boyfriend is present and their relationship slowly advances.  Emma, Grace's sister shows up in New Orleans to join Grace, and she brings along Kai and Hugh as well as Grace's half wolf.  Hugh is a fellow Veterinarian and Emma's new sweetie.  Logan is the dark, mysterious and dangerous killer who calls Grace "Sweetness".  He shows up to warn Grace of the dangers and we find out more about his murky story.  Belinda, the 6 foot 6 inch drag queen psychic is the breakout star - hilarious.  Of course the Mystery Monkey, Cornelius, is a surprise and very memorable.

Post Katrina New Orleans with both its eerie and mesmerizing sides are on display, the warehouse where Mardi Gras floats are stored was utilized for maximum effect.  The plot gets a little involved and the importance of Cornelius the Mystery Monkey isn't evident at first, but soon I started to suspect his role and it definitely was important.  I felt the pacing kept me captive in the story. 

The killer confrontation was exciting and tense stretched over a few scenes of action, well worth the build up.  The wrap-up was short and well done.  Another great addition to the this consistently riveting cozy series.

I thoroughly enjoyed this fourth outing and can't think of a thing to make it better.

 Rating: Near Perfect - Buy two copies: one for you and one for a friend.

Review - An Unhappy Medium

Hard to believe that I had not read the precious three installments in this series!  Too many books and so little time. But I am jumping in on the fourth in the series and had no trouble understanding the characters and town.  Read on for more about murder during a zombie run in the woods!

Author: Dawn Eastman

Copyright: April 2016 (Berkley) 304 pgs

Series: 4th in Family Fortune Mystery series

Sensuality: Mild

Mystery Sub-genre: Cozy (slightly paranormal)

Main Character: Clyde Fortune, a former cop and novice psychic

Setting: Modern day, Crystal Haven, Michigan

Obtained Through: Publisher for honest review

All of Crystal Haven, Michigan, is psyching up to participate in a Zombie Fun Run organized by Clyde’s nephew Seth, but Clyde is fretful about the upcoming event. Her estranged sister, Grace, has unexpectedly returned to town after fifteen years. Plus, Clyde has the nagging feeling that something is about to go wrong.

When one of the zombie runners is found murdered in the same costume as Grace's husband Paul...then both disappear it seems Grace's business troubles she mentioned have caught up with her. Clyde realizes her grim premonition is dead-on. Now, she and her police detective boyfriend Mac must find the murderer.

I really enjoyed Clyde Fortune as the main character. She didn't sugar-coat her issues with her sister - which are beyond sibling rivalries. Mac is very understanding of everything that takes place and sticks by Clyde. I like Mac and want to go back and read their meeting, which is saying a lot for me since I am tired of the cliche cop boyfriend. Clyde's family are all well realized and nephew Seth is a positive element.

The zombie run was spine-tingling atmospheric and the hints of trouble following Grace to town built suspense without being obvious. The plot has several layers for a more intricate story than usual (A+ there). The pacing was finely tuned and had me hooked chapter after chapter. The climax had a good killer reveal and some thrills. The wrap-up tied up most loose ends with a thread left to carry into the next book.

I enjoyed this book from cover to cover. A well executed and layered plot alongside engaging characters with some touches of goose-bump worthy settings makes for a strong cozy.

Rating: Excellent - Loved it, it had a good grip on me! Buy it now and put this author on your watch list

Review - Crime and Poetry

Amanda Flower, an Agatha Award-nominated author and writer of Amish Quilt Shop Mysteries, has a new mystery series out, the Magical Bookshop Mysteries. Check out her guest post (click here). I loved the blurb on the book so I had to read it.  Take a little trip with me to the Niagara Falls area on New York for a little Crime and Poetry.

Author: Amanda Flower

Copyright:  April 2016 (NAL) 368 pgs

Series: 1st in Magical Bookshop Mystery series

Sensuality: Mild

Mystery Sub-genre: Cozy, mildly paranormal

Main Characters:  Violet Waverly, graduate student in American Literature PhD program

Setting: Modern day, Cascade Springs - New York

Obtained Through: Publisher for honest review

Violet left Cascade Springs (near Niagara Falls) twelve years ago and swore she would never return.  Until a phone call from her beloved grandmother, on her death bed, had her racing from Chicago.  After dropping everything in her life to be with her grandmother in her dire hour, she finds grandma healthy and running her bookstore.  Seems Grandma Daisy had decided it was time for Violet to come home and assume her responsibilities in the enchanted (literally) bookstore, Charmed Books.   It’s where the perfect book tends to fly off the shelf and pick you.

Violet plans on leaving in the morning since she is in no condition to drive back immediately, no matter how tempted she is.  But, in the morning Grandma Daisy's boyfriend, Benedict Raisin, is found strangled outside the Grandma Daisy's house in his carriage.  He was  a carriage driver.  He was strangled with one of Daisy's scarves and the first officer on the scene immediately believes Daisy is the prime suspect.  

Violet must stay and ensure her grandmother is cleared.  She has to contend with her teenage boyfriend who is now mayor, the attractive Chief David Rainwater, Benedict's orphaned tuxedo cat Emerson, the resident bookshop black bird that talks, and the memories of her teenage best friend who died suddenly twelve years ago.

Wonderful characters populate this book.  Violet is easy to like and her grandmother is a rascal.  I don't think I would have let the "on death's door" ploy be dismissed so easily, though.  The old rivalry between her high school boyfriend Nathan and his brother Grant was a good added touch.  Of course both Nathan and Chief Rainwater show interest in Violet keeps the interest high.   

A great job on the setting and incorporating Niagara Falls and local historical tidbits.  The plot was interesting and the enchantment of the bookshop plus what being the official caretaker of the shop and the tree that grows inside the shop kept the pacing steady.  The killer confrontation was handled with a dose of danger and tension.  The resolution had me routing for one of the two guys maneuvering for her attention and I wanted the next book immediately.

I hadn't read the author's other series (Amish Quilt Shop) so this was a delightful discovery for me.  Everything comes together for a captivating book that hooked me.

Rating:  Near Perfect - Buy two copies: one for you and one for a friend.

Review - A Familiar Tale

This is the debut novel in a new series.  It is a lighthearted magical cozy.  Come along and see if it's for you.

Author: Delia James

Copyright: Feb 2016 (NAL) 336 pgs

Series: 1st in A Witch's Cat Mystery series

Sensuality: Mild

Mystery Sub-genre: Paranormal Cozy

Main Character: Annabelle (Annie) Amelia Blessingsound Britton

Setting: Modern day, Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Obtained Through: Publisher for honest review

Annabelle breaks up with her boyfriend and decides to visit visit her best friend - Chef Martine, who is opening a restaurant in the seaside town of  Portsmouth, New Hampshire.  When she stumbles upon a smoky gray cat named Alastair (nicknamed the ghost cat), and follows him into a charming cottage of his former owner (Dorothy) who recently died.  She gains access, seemingly from Alistair the cat's magic touch, into a locked attic room with a witch's altar complete with her photo in the center.  Before she knows it, she encounters an intruder and pockets the wand from the altar.  Her hidden talent - a "vibe" she gets - tells her that Dorothy was pushed rather than accidentally fell down the basement stairs.  She is soon surrounded by Dorothy's coven, surviving nephew, and Alistair, all wanting to find out the truth yet trying to protect her at the same time.

Annie, she is a fun character that is easy to care about.  Her interactions with Alistair are priceless.  She has a self-deprecating sense of humor that keeps the narrative light.  Martine is a busy Chef, but makes time for Annie when she is needed.  Frank, the head of the local paper and only surviving relation to Dorothy may be interested in Annie.  I look forward to seeing how his character develops.  The coven is comprised of Julia, Valerie, Kenisha, Didi, Shannon, and Trisha are a friendly group of women who use their spells, charms, and potions to keep the people of Portsmouth safe.  Sean, the charismatic bartender at Martine's restaurant, is another potential romantic interest.  At least, he is interested.  Alistair the cat is not surprising, the breakout star.  Enigmatic, he is a cat of mystery who disappears into thin air and appears just as suddenly.

The plot arrears simple on first blush, but there is enough going on that motive or the killer aren't clear.  Particularly motive.  The pages kept turning as I followed Annie, so the pacing maintained a steady rhythm.  The killer reveal was plenty tense which made me happy.  The wrap up leaves the reader wanting to know what is in store for Annie now.

I liked this light and engaging mystery with warm and fun characters.  The only draw back were quite a few typos.

Rating: Excellent - Loved it, it had a good grip on me! Buy it now and put this author on your watch list.


Cherry Cheesecake Cookies

These festive cookies offer bright red saucy cherries atop a stage of sweet cheesecake dusted in graham cracker crumbs. The best part is, they're a cinch to make!
While the original recipe calls for the use of cherries on top, feel free to adapt it by using a tablespoon of blueberry pie filling, strawberry pie filling, strawberry-rhubarb pie filling, even lemon pie filling, etc. The possibilities are endless and these delicious cookies will be the hit of any party. In case you're wondering, this recipe can easily be doubled as well.

You'll Need:
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 (8-ounce) pkg cream cheese, softened
1 1/4 sticks butter, softened
3/4 cup sugar
1 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs (place in a small shallow dish)
1 cans (20-ounce) cherry pie filling (or blueberry or strawberry, etc if desired)

Combine the flour, baking powder and salt in a bowl, mixing well, then set aside.

In a mixing bowl combine cream cheese, butter and sugar and beat them together until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add eggs and vanilla and continue beating until incorporated and smooth.

Reduce speed to low and add the flour mixture and mix until just combined, do not over beat the dough.

Refrigerate dough until firm, about 30-60 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper or silpats.

Scoop the dough out and shape into 1 1/2-inch balls, then roll the balls in graham cracker crumbs. Place balls 2 inches apart on the baking sheets, then, using the back of a spoon press gently to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.

Place 3 cherries in each cookie dimple.

Bake 12 to 14 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool for five minutes on the sheet and then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. 

Prep Time: 45 min (including refrigeration time)
Cook Time: 14 min Yield: 3 dozen cookies

Recipe from Budget101.com

Review - A Wee Dose of Death

Here is the newest in the ScotShop mystery series.  I reviewed #1 Wee Murder In My Shop (click here), and I was tickled to have the author provide two guest posts (click here), and another post (click here).  

Author: Fran Stewart

Copyright: Jan 2016 (Berkley) 304 pgs

Series: 2nd in ScotShop Mystery series

Sensuality: n/a

Mystery Sub-genre: Paranormal Cozy

Main Characters: Peggy Winn, Owner/Operator of the Scot Shop

Setting: Modern day, Hamelin, Vermont

Obtained Through: Publisher for honest review

     It's the dead of winter when a college microbiology professor is found dead by Hamelin police chief Mac Campbell, who is himself seriously injured in a cross country skiing accident, in a little mountain cabin up the Perth ski trail. Turns out that the murdered professor used to be Peggy's friend's instructor and had become secretive in the last several months.  The knee-jerk reaction from recovering Chief Campbell is to arrest the eccentric wife since there was a significant life insurance policy involved.  But, as Peggy gets to know the widow, she discovers the widow isn't the ogre students and colleagues thought she was, and realizes she isn't the killer.  Peggy still has her fourteenth century highland ghost, Dirk, tagging along with the Scottish shawl he is attached to.

     I had a difficult time with this book.  Apparently Dirk's near constant harping, nitpicking, condescending, know-it-all, and morally superior attitude throughout is perceived as funny by some readers.  The clash between 14th Century Scotland and modern America.  But, it just grated on me.  What struck me even more was that Peggy would actually blame and shame herself for needing a break from his ongoing harassment.  That was the real kicker for me.  I have a pet peeve of main characters who don't stand up for themselves with overbearing relatives, but this surpassed even that.  So, it wasn't comical to me at all, rather a denial of her feelings having any worth and a subjugation.  Plus, she is then attracted to this abusive man.  I know, pretty heavy stuff...but there you have my thoughts on the Peggy and Dirk dynamic.  

     Chief of police Mac Campbell has serious anger management issues and blames as much as he possibly can on Peggy.  Policeman Harper is the potential love interest, but he can't communicate for beans in this book and doesn't take any growing relationship seriously enough to make an effort.  I am disappointed in this character, not as much as I am in Peggy, though.

     The setting of Vermont in winter had my teeth chattering and was quite effective.  The way the plot was doled out kept some suspense over what the professor was involved in.  The book was light enough to keep the pages turning.  There was a good killer reveal that had some delightfully tense moments.  

The overbearing attitudes of both Dirk and Mac Campbell have spoiled what would have been a fun and breezy book for me.  I personally don't think I will risk reading another.  But, I know many don't have the same reaction to Dirk as I do and find lots of humor in the book.  Ultimately, only you will know if it is for you.

Ratings:  Good - A fun read with minor flaws, good but not stellar. Maybe read an excerpt before buying.