#BookReview ~ Witch's Tail by Melanie Snow #Paranormal #CozyMystery ~ The Spellwood Witches, Book One

Her mentor died fighting to save an enchanted forest.

Can she solve his murder before she’s bewitched?

Witch’s Tail

The Spellwood Witches

Book One

Melanie Snow

Genre: Paranormal Cozy Mystery

Publisher: Spirit Paw Press, LLC

Date of Publication: September 8, 2020

ISBN: 978-1-7324375-6-2

Number of pages: 220

Word Count: 46,311

Cover Artist: Molly Burton

Amazon

About the Book:

Can she awaken her dormant powers and stop a desperate killer destroying the forest?

Sarah Spellwood feels she’s hit bottom. Divorced and jobless, she relocates to the enchanting village of Witchland intent on solving the murder of her late mentor. But as she pursues clues buried in the man’s fight to save the endangered forest-dwelling lynx, she makes an enemy of a ruthless land developer.

Encountering fairies in the woods, Sarah discovers she’s been repressing unique gifts passed down from her ancestor and founding witch, Lativia Spellwood. But though she can now hear her deceased friend’s dog speak, she isn’t sure her abilities are enough to expose the greed and corruption covering a killer’s lies.

Can Sarah work with the magical beings to bring a murderer to justice?

Witch’s Tail is the charming first book in the light-hearted The Spellwood Witches cozy mystery series. If you like paranormal puzzles, delightful canine companions, and environmental enlightenment, then you’ll love Melaine Snow’s wagging-ly fun whodunit.

Buy Witch’s Tail to set a snare for an assassin today!

My Review:

Sarah is a descendant of Lativia Spellwood, founder of Witchland. After Sarah's life falls apart in New York she finds herself back in Witchland, New Hampshire. She's taking over the law business of her mentor, whose death occurred under mysterious circumstances. As she settles in, she also tries to figure out the death, while fighting with a land developer bent on destroying the magical forest surrounding Witchland.

Witch's Tail is a cute, witchy cozy mystery. I loved the characters and Sarah's determination to find out how her mentor died. Her ancestry may include witches, but Sarah was not prepared for fairies, talking dogs, or the awakening of her magical gifts. She took everything in stride, even though there was a bit of disbelief.

Sarah is a strong character. She takes her responsibilities as a lawyer seriously and puts her training to good use. Following in her mentor's footsteps, she goes toe-to-toe with an unscrupulous land developer. She perseveres but not without difficulties. As she tries to uncover what really happened to her mentor, Sarah also faces a barrage of attacks from an unknown assailant. I enjoyed the pacing of the book and the author's storytelling.

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Review previously posted on Sapphyria's Books.

My Rating:

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Reviews by Saph.

#BookReview ~ Costumes & Cadavers: Sassy Supplies Cozy Mystery by Katherine H. Brown ~ #CozyMystery

Costumes & Cadavers: Sassy Supplies Cozy Mystery by Katherine H. Brown

 

Costumes & Cadavers: Sassy Supplies Cozy Mystery

Cozy Mystery

1st in Series

Independently Published (January 17, 2022)

Print Length: ‎ 36 pages

Digital ASIN: ‎ B09QMRXW4T

Amazon

 

About Costumes & Cadavers:

Nobody ever plans to be the death of the party. 

Party guests congratulate Charity Basham, owner of Sassy Supplies Crafts & More, on the scariness of her backyard skeleton decoration. Unfortunately, Charity didn't put out any skeleton decorations. 

With the discovery of a dead body, her Halloween party turns into a nightmare. With her fingerprints (and some white cat fur) are all over the murder weapon, Charity finds herself at the top of the suspect list. 

Can she clear her name before the dishy Detective Sota arrests her for murder?

My Review:

Costumes and Cadavers is a short cozy mystery story. The book wastes no time setting up a murder mystery. Sassy Supplies Crafts & More shop owner Charity Basham is hosting a Halloween party. The discovery of a dead body in her garden puts a damper on the festivities.

This short story is enjoyable and is a very quick read. Costumes & Cadavers is a fast-paced murder mystery. I was engaged in the captivating story, characters, and mystery. If you've got a few minutes, grab Costumes & Cadavers for a hauntingly good time.

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Review previously posted on Saph's Cozy Corner.

My Rating:

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Reviews by Saph.

#BookReview ~ Candle With Care: A Magic Candle Shop Mystery by Valona Jones ~ Paranormal Cozy Mystery #CozyMystery

Candle With Care: A Magic Candle Shop Mystery by Valona Jones

Paranormal Cozy Mystery

4th in Series Setting - Georgia

Publisher: Muddle House (February 11, 2025)

Print length: ‎ 290 pages

Digital ASIN: ‎ B0DT2GB9BD

Purchase Link: Amazon

About Candle With Care:

Amateur sleuth and candle maker Tabby Winslow and her twin sister, Sage, are finally making a go of The Book and Candle Shop. It seems like the only heat they’ll feel this June is from the strong sunshine in Savannah, Georgia. Then their acquaintance Detective Sharmila Belfor is gravely injured in a vehicular assault and is in a coma. Cops turn the city upside down searching for the offender, keying in on the detective’s boyfriend Herbert R Ellis, her felon cousin, and her case files. Fearing the police are looking at the wrong people, Herbert begs Tabby to investigate. He knows what most don’t, that Tabby has psychic abilities that allow her to home in on emotions and motives. Since he’s a lifelong friend of Dr. Quig Quigsly, Tabby’s fiancé, she agrees. But before she finds answers, Sage’s former coworker is murdered, and her twin pleads with Tabby to find the killer. With dead ends at every turn, Tabby fears the city’s troubles are paranormal in origin. By investigating the crimes, she risks exposure of the way her family manipulates energy and uses other psychic talents. Keeping a low profile is essential. Meanwhile, Quig’s parents are throwing them a black-tie engagement party in two weeks, and Tabby is burning the candle at both ends. Can Tabby end the crime wave and protect her loved ones before she is quenched?

My Review:

Candle with Care is the fourth wonderful book in the Magic Candle Shop Mysteries. Tabby and Sage are running The Book and Candle Shop. Sage is also running a farmer's market type event in front of their store to sell plants. "Sage of Plants" has been a huge hit. Amid their success though, is a town fraught with danger. One of their detectives is a assaulted in a what appears to be attempted vehicular homicide and a dear friend of Sage's is murdered.

I love the characters in this series. I enjoyed both Tabby and Sage, as well as Quiq, along with the rest of the characters. The story was enjoyable, and the cover and the blurb got me onboard. The story, fun characters, and mystery kept me engaged. The murder mystery was twisted, well-thought out, and complex. This series is amazing.

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Review previously posted on Sapphyria's Books.

My Rating:

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Reviews by Saph.

#BookReview ~ Tallowed Ground: A Magic Candle Shop Mystery by Valona Jones ~ Paranormal Cozy Mystery ~ #Paranormal #CozyMystery

Tallowed Ground: A Magic Candle Shop Mystery by Valona Jones

 

Tallowed Ground: A Magic Candle Shop Mystery

Paranormal Cozy Mystery

3rd in Series

Setting: Georgia

Publisher: ‎ Muddle House Publishing (September 10, 2024)

Digital Print Length: ‎ 269 pages 

ASIN: ‎ B0D9HLPS2W

Amazon

About Tallowed Ground: 

When a killer props his third and latest victim against the double tombstone of Tabby and Sage Winslow’s grandparents’ grave in Savannah, Georgia, the psychic twins are stunned. Even worse, the victim is the very man they filed a restraining order against a few months ago for trashing their book and candle shop. Coincidence...or a connection? Then a clue about the murders points to Tabby’s career as a candlemaker. Now, she is the number one suspect in the killing spree.

The twins investigate all three victims, finding little that might tie the cases together besides where the bodies were found—in or near Bonaventure Cemetery, a beautiful 100-acre historic graveyard with a storied past. Then Tabby’s Medical Examiner boyfriend is mysteriously pulled from the case, with his dream job in jeopardy. The situation reaches a flashpoint when new evidence points to Tabby. With her freedom and the family business in jeopardy, Tabby and Sage match their wits and psychic abilities against the wily killer.

That is, until Tabby’s spirited inquiry lands her in the worst kind of trouble. Can Tabby clear her name before the fiend snuffs her flame…for good?

My Review:

Tallowed Ground is the third book in the cozy mystery series, The Magic Candle Shop Mysteries. Sage and Tabby Winslow are twins who co-own The Book and Candle Shop. They are exact opposites, which tends to happen with siblings, twins or not. 

Bodies keep appearing in the cemetery where Sage and Tabby’s grandparents are buried. When the third and latest body is propped up against their tombstone, and the body identified, Savannah’s finest make themselves at home in The Book and Candle Shop. Clues continue to point to Tabby, and the police are relentless in their pursuit of her as the serial killer. Tabby is running out of time to protect herself, her family, and prove she’s not the murderer.

I love the characters in this series. I enjoyed both Tabby and Sage, along with the rest of the characters. The story was enjoyable, and the cover and the blurb got me onboard. The story, fun characters, and mystery kept me engaged. The murder mystery was twisted, well-thought out, and complex.

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Review previously posted on Sapphyria's Books.

My Rating:

 

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Reviews by Saph.

#BookReview ~ Snuffed Out (Magic Candle Shop Mystery) by Valona Jones #CozyMystery #ParanormalCozyMystery

Snuffed Out (Magic Candle Shop Mystery) by Valona Jones

Snuffed Out (Magic Candle Shop Mystery)

Paranormal Cozy Mystery

1st in Series

Setting: Savannah, GA

Publisher: Crooked Lane Books

Publish Date: January 10, 2023

Hardcover: 304 Pages

ISBN-10: ‎ 1639102051

ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1639102051

Digital ASIN: ‎ B09XM5PKP7

Purchase Link: Amazon

About Snuffed Out:

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 Review:

Snuffed Out is the first book in a new cozy mystery series, Magic Candle Shop Mysteries. Sage and Tabby Winslow are twins who co-own The Book and Candle Shop. They are exact opposites, which tends to happen with siblings, twins or not. When a difficult customer is found dead after an altercation with one of their employees, he becomes suspect number one. Tabby and Sage start digging into the case because they know their employee didn't commit the crime.

I had a hard time connecting with Sage at first because of her quick fuse, but she eventually grew on me. Tabby was easier to get to know and understand, although, she is bit more timid. As the story progressed and the characters were developed, I found I enjoyed both Tabby and Sage, along with the rest of the characters.

The story was enjoyable, and both the cover and the blurb brought me onboard. The story, fun characters, and mystery kept me engaged. The murder mystery was twisted, well-thought out, and complex.

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Review previously posted on Sapphyria's Books.

My Rating:

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Reviews by Saph.

#BookReview ~ Cookies, Corpses & the Deadly Haunt (Haunted House Flippers Inc., Book 1) by Rachael Stapleton @RaquelleJaxson #Halloween

Cookies, Corpses & the Deadly Haunt (Haunted House Flippers Inc.) by Rachael Stapleton

Cookies, Corpses & the Deadly Haunt (Haunted House Flippers Inc.)

Cozy Mystery

1st in Series 

Self Published 

Print Length: 164 pages 

ASIN: B074TY4ZXD

Amazon

About the Book:

House flippers Jack & Juniper agree to lend and help prep their latest purchase—The Doctors House—an old Victorian mansion to act as the eerie setting for the town’s Halloween bash, they’re expecting to find missing floor boards, and pesky bats, not the ghostly specter of the murdered Doctors Wife.

But when the head of the council is found stuffed in a trunk in the attic, it appears history is repeating.

As June and the team, carry on with party preparations, they unravel a century of family secrets, whispers of lunacy—and the number one suspect goes on the run. But the victim’s family insists that the ball must go on, even with a killer on the loose. With Halloween fast approaching, June sees the woman in white and wonders if keeping the killer out was ever really a possibility. Now she’s desperate to unmask the killer before the Annual Halloween Bash turns into even more of a deadly haunt…

My Review:

Cookies, Corpses, and the Deadly Haunt is the first book in a new series by Rachael Stapleton. The premise is two exes who've built a very successful house flipping company. Jack and Juniper have just purchased a mansion in Jack's home town and are working on getting the mansion fixed up and ready for resale when they are asked to host a Halloween bash. It seems that the house is haunted by the wife of a doctor murder many years ago and stuffed in a trunk in the attic. Jack and Juniper give the green light to the bash and then a woman is found dead in the trunk.

As the murder investigations heats up, another body is found that has Juniper questioning whether the town should hold a Halloween bash at all. However, the family insists the Halloween bash continue. When the ghost of the doctor's wife appears outside during the party, and another person is hurt, Jack and Juniper can't help but wonder if the legend is true. What transpires leads to the exposure of a lifetime of family secrets in a town where everyone knows everyone else and some lives will never be the same.

The author did a great job with the character development and world building within Cookies, Corpses, and the Deadly Haunt. Jack, Juniper, and Juniper's friend Pike are very down-to-earth people with successful businesses that they enjoy. All of the characters interact well, even those that may be considered hard to get along with. The secondary characters are well-positioned within the pages and play their parts well.

Part of the story does dance around a love triangle but it's not overwhelming or intrusive on the story. It's a nice addition used by the author to give the book realism. Many people have multiple suitors so it's not far fetched to think our cozy mystery heroines wouldn't be the same. For those concerned about triangles, there is a nice ending to the book and, while I rooted for both men in Juniper's life, I like where the author took her character.

There are couple minor issues I had with the book, though they didn't really bother me - they were just things I noticed. There is an inconsistent point of view - the book flip-flops between 1st and third person. Also, some of the plot points were inconsistent. I can't describe the biggest one here because it would be a potential spoiler near the end of the book.

Cookies, Corpses, and the Deadly Haunt is a fabulous cozy mystery. The plot was unique and interesting, keeping me engaged from the start. I enjoyed all of the characters, they were written with realism and are easy to connect to while reading. The story is fast paced and moves along nicely, not getting bogged down with useless filler or uninteresting details.

This book is from my private collection. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

My Rating:

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Reviews by Saph.

#BookReview ~ The Spook in the Stacks (A Lighthouse Library Mystery) by Eva Gates ~ #CozyMystery #Halloween ~ @vickidelany @evagatesauthor

The Spook in the Stacks: A Lighthouse Library Mystery by Eva Gates

Book Details:

The Spook in the Stacks 

A Lighthouse Library Mystery, Book 4

Cozy Mystery

 Crooked Lane Books 

June 12, 2018

 Hardcover: 250 Pages 

ISBN-13: 978-1683315803 

Digital ASIN: B075QJ59PX

 Amazon 

 

About the Book:

Halloween in North Carolina’s Outer Banks becomes seriously tricky when librarian Lucy Richardson stumbles across something extra unusual in the rare books section: a dead body.

Wealthy businessman Jay Ruddle is considering donating his extensive collection of North Carolina historical documents to the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library, but the competition for the collection is fierce. Unfortunately, while the library is hosting a lecture on ghostly legends, Jay becomes one of the dearly departed in the rare books section. Now, it’s up to Lucy Richardson and her fellow librarians to bone up on their detective skills and discover who is responsible for this wicked Halloween homicide.

Meanwhile, very strange things are happening at the library―haunted horses are materializing in the marsh, the lights seem to have an eerie life of their own, and the tiny crew of a model ship appears to move around when no one is watching. Is Lucy at her wit’s end? Or can it be that the Bodie Island Lighthouse really is haunted?

With The Legend of Sleepy Hollow on everyone’s minds and ghoulish gossip on everyone’s lips, Lucy will need to separate the clues from the boos if she wants to crack this case without losing her head in The Spook in the Stacks, the delightful fourth in national bestseller Eva Gates’ Lighthouse Library mysteries.

My Review:

The Spook in the Stacks is the fourth book in the Lighthouse Library Mystery series. This book features a wealthy gentleman shopping for the best library to house his extensive collection of  documents featuring the history of North Carolina. When he is found dead in the Lighthouse Library during a ghostly lecture, Lucy and the rest of the librarians must find a killer. A wonderful book full of twists turns and red herrings. There are a number of potential suspects and the race to figure out who did it is on.

I love the setting, the characters, and the mysteries in each book in the series and The Spook in the Stacks just adds another wonder book to my shelf. Lucy is a wonderful character. She may come from money but she doesn't act like it or flaunt her family's riches. She's pretty down-to-earth and likeable. I love Charlene's obsession of rap music and her passion for wanting to share. The love triangle is still present throughout most of the book but it doesn't overstep the death of Jay Ruddle. All of the secondary characters are unique in their own way and believable. Oh, and how could I forget about Charles?! The library cat is a delightful addition to the cast.

The story is well paced, enjoyable, and full of suspense. The author did a wonderful job describing the characters and scenery within the book. I was able to visualize the story as it played out. A fantastic cozy mystery and addition to the Lighthouse Library series, The Spook in the Stacks is engaging, doesn't divulge the suspect right away, and keeps the reader guessing. 

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Review previously posted on Sapphyria's Books.

My Rating:

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Reviews by Saph.

#BookReview ~ Designed for Haunting (Aurora Anderson Mystery, Book 4) by Sybil Johnson ~ #CozyMystery ~ @SybilJohnson19

Designed for Haunting

Aurora Anderson Mystery

by Sybil Johnson

Book Details:

Designed for Haunting

Aurora Anderson Mystery

Sybil Johnson

Cozy Mystery

4th in Series

Henery Press

October 9, 2018

About the Book:

October brings a message from Beyond The Grave...

Halloween is fast approaching in the quiet Los Angeles County city of Vista Beach, home of computer programmer and tole-painting enthusiast Rory Anderson. While her painting chapter prepares to open its annual boutique house, Rory receives an unexpected email from Beyond The Grave, a company that automatically sends out messages when someone dies.

“I think I have a stalker,” the message reads. “If you’re reading this I’m either missing or dead. My life may depend on what you do. Please find out what happened to me.”

Haunted by her friend’s disappearance and possible death, Rory begins her search with the help of best friend and fellow painter, Liz Dexter. Can they discover who has designs on the missing woman and uncover the truth before one of them becomes the stalker’s next victim?

My Review:

I'm so happy to be back in Vista Beach with Rory, Liz, and Martin, along with all the rest of the characters in Designed for Haunting.

The story's setting is just prior to Halloween and starts right in with the mystery. As the town is gearing up for the festivities, Rory is assisting in the preparation of her painting group's annual open house. As she's going through her emails she receives a haunting message from her friend Zelena Alvaraz from Beyond the Grave. Beyond the Grave is an online company that specializes in sending out email messages, set up by their clients, upon the person's death. These messages are typically stored and sent by guidelines set up by the client. Rory and Liz then begin trying to locate Zelena in hopes that she's still alive.

There are several storylines in Designed for Haunting that are seemingly distinct but the author takes each thread and magically weaves them all together. Designed for Haunting is quite engaging, flows well, and keeps the reader on their toes. The red herrings tossed in will keep the reader guessing what exactly is going on and then near the end everything seamlessly falls into place.

Rory is a great character and very compassionate and determined to find her friend, even if it means taking unsafe and unnecessary chances. Her boyfriend, Detective Martin Green, is a wonderful character and we see a bit more of their romance. I wish there was a bit more of their lives together but the amount is tasteful and doesn't overshadow the other threads in the book. Martin is my favorite character in the book. He's capable and competent, and I love his interactions with Rory, even when things are tense. I loved Liz, Rory's friend, and Arika, Rory's mother. They were unique and added to the story.

The story was a quick and easy read. There wasn't anything confusing or hard to understand. The dialogue between all of the characters was fluid and comfortable. The author does a great job creating a world that grabs the reader and pulls them in, keeping them engaged from start to finish. The characters are vibrant and exciting for the most part. I really enjoyed Designed for Haunting.

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Review previously posted on Sapphyria's Books.

My Rating:

Hardcover: 276 pages

ISBN-10: 1635114055

ISBN-13: 978-1635114058

Paperback: 276 pages

ISBN-10: 1635114020

ISBN-13: 978-1635114027

Digital ASIN: B07FSYFM8Q

Purchase Link:

Amazon

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Reviews by Saph.

#Book Review ~ Midnight Spells Murder (A Happy Camper Mystery, Book 2) by Mary Angela ~#cozymystery #Halloween ~ @maryangelabooks

Midnight Spells Murder (A Happy Camper Mystery) by Mary Angela

Book Details:

Midnight Spells Murder (A Happy Camper Mystery)

Cozy Mystery

2nd in Series

Publisher: Lyrical Press (July 13, 2021)

Print Length: 271 pages

Digital ASIN: B08L8RJTTD

About Midnight Spells Murder:

Spirit Canyon’s annual Spirit Spooktacular weekend is on, and for local amateur sleuth Zo Jones, it’s boomtime for business at her Happy Camper gift shop . . . until a murderer drops in for a browse.

To celebrate Halloween at the Happy Camper, Zo schedules a talk by successful author and self-proclaimed witch Marianne Morgan. Although Marianne’s benign brand of witchcraft is more about feminine empowerment than black magic, her presence is still not welcomed by everyone. Then on a midnight stroll home, Zo spots what seems to be a new Halloween decoration propped up outside the Happy Camper. What she finds is not a mannequin but a dead Marianne, her lifeless body dressed in traditional witch’s garb. But why would someone send this good witch back to the spirit world permanently?

Soon Zo realizes that plenty of folks have motives for murdering Marianne. What’s worse, nosy TV newsman Justin Castle plans to broadcast a report associating Marianne’s murder with the Happy Camper. Zo calls on her partner in sleuthing, local forest ranger Max Harrington, to help her find the culprit before Justin’s report airs. Otherwise Zo’s business just might go bust. But to catch this killer, Zo will have to risk much more than just her reputation . . .

My Review:

I binge read books 1 and two in 2 days. I can't believe I waited this long to read book 1...

It's Spirit Spooktacular weekend in Spirit Canyon, South Dakota. All the shop owners are getting into the Halloween spirit and Zo is hosting an author in her Happy Camper gift shop. The author, Marianne Morgan, isn't a hit with everyone but most people who come to see her talk and sign books enjoy her views of female empowerment. On a walk back home the next night, Zo sees a wonderful holiday scene outside her shop. That is, until she gets close enough to see the lifelike mannequin isn't fake but the dead body of Marianne. As the investigation into her death begins, Zo realizes Marianne has more enemies than she could have imagined, all with motives and opportunities. Now, all Zo and Max have to do is live long enough to find out who wanted the witch dead.

Midnight Spells Murder was a clever who-done-it with a plethora of suspects and motives. With the death scene located just outside Happy Camper, Zo has not only a murder investigation to worry about but the reputation of her shop. Reporter Justin Castle is up to his tricks again when he intends on airing a segment linking the murder to Zo's business. If Zo can't solve who murdered Marianne, Justin's report just might mean the end of Happy Camper.

The author's writing style, characters, and setting are enjoyable. I love being in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The characters in Midnight Spells Murder are fascinating and love whatever it is brewing between Max and Zo. Zo's neighbor, Russell Cunningham, is a hoot and everyone should be so lucky to have nice, friendly neighbors. I love Zo's friendships, the camaraderie, and the way the author wrote their interactions. The character development and world building continued in book 2 and I have fallen more in love with Spirit Canyon and it's unique citizens.

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Review previously posted on Sapphyria's Books.

My Rating:

Purchase Link:

Amazon

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Reviews by Saph.

#BookReview ~ Wands, Waffles, and Whispers (Southern Magical Bakery Book 2) by Tonya Kappes

About the Book:

Every small town hides a secret. This one has a few dozen... and a magical cat who knows them all.

After leaving her enchanted hometown behind, Lo Heal-Park thought she’d finally found a quiet life in Celestial Falls—complete with a charming bakery, a suspiciously talkative cat, and a second date with the local vet. But when a beloved town elder is found dead under mysterious circumstances and strange magical pulses begin rippling through the streets, Lo’s hopes for a fresh start vanish like sugar on a hot skillet.

Now, with her unexpected spiritual gifts waking up and a magical crack in the town’s foundation threatening to burst wide open, Lo has to sift through secrets, seal old spells, and figure out who—or what—is stirring ancient magic from its slumber. All without burning the biscuits.

Warm, witty, and just a little wicked, Wands, Waffles & Whispers is the delicious first course in a new cozy mystery series perfect for fans of spellbinding small towns, cinnamon-sweet suspense, and heroines who stir up more than just batter.

Because in Celestial Falls, even the magic has a sweet tooth… and it’s hungry.

Amazon

Goodreads

ASIN: ‎ B0D57N9N5Q
Publisher: ‎ Tonya Kappes Books
Publication date: ‎ July 20, 2025
Print length: ‎ 232 pages

My Review:

Wands, Waffles, and Whispers is the second book in the Southern Magical Bakery series. Lo Heal-Park is settling into her new home in Celestial Falls. Her bakery, Magical Desserts, is whipping up wonderful treats, and Lo even has a date with the local vet. When Odessa, one of the magical locals drops by and leaves Lo with a gift, she can’t imagine the string of events that would happen after. Now, Lo is investigating Odessa’s death and anxiously trying to figure how to control her not-so-latent magical powers.

The Wands, Waffles, and Whispers town of Celestial Falls has a rich history, lots of secrets, and some quirky characters. The story was interesting, kept me engaged, and was well-paced. The author provides a very descriptive setting, explores Lo’s magical side, and develops the character between the pages. I enjoyed spending time with Lo, Skylar Blue, and Orin, along with the side characters. I’m not keen on love triangles but I’m willing to give the one in this story a go in hopes that Lo will make the right decision.

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

My Rating:

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Sapphyria’s Books.

#BookReview ~ A Twinkle of Trouble (A Fairy Garden Mystery) by Daryl Wood Gerber ~ #cozymystery #Review #KensingtonBooks @KensingtonBooks

A Twinkle of Trouble (A Fairy Garden Mystery) by Daryl Wood Gerber

About A Twinkle of Trouble:

 

A Twinkle of Trouble (A Fairy Garden Mystery)

Cozy Mystery

5th in Series

Setting: California

Publisher: ‎ Kensington Cozies (April 23, 2024)

Paperback: ‎ 304 pages

ISBN-10: ‎ 1496744934

ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1496744937

Kindle ASIN: ‎ B0CFGF36NM

About A Twinkle of Trouble:

Carmel-by-the-Sea garden shop owner Courtney Kelly sees things others can’t—like fairies, and hidden motives for murder . . .

Courtney is delighted when her tiny friend Fiona returns from the fairy realm, appearing at the base of a Cypress tree. When her Ragdoll cat, Pixie, emerges from her own portal—aka the cat door—the three set off for a busy day. Busier than usual, since Courtney has rented a small plot of land at the Flower Farm, where she hopes to grow her own supplies for her fairy-garden business. Plus, the annual Summer Blooms Festival is coming up, and Courtney has booked a booth . . .

But the murder of Courtney’s friend, Genevieve, casts a pall over the festival. Ever since Genevieve sold her floral business, she’d been building a career as an influencer. She was perennially opinionated—but in her new role she’d become surprisingly vicious, dissing local entrepreneurs with nasty posts and unwarranted bad reviews. That’s landed a couple of Courtney’s other friends on the suspect list—including Flower Farm owner Daphne Flores. And when a second victim is discovered, seeds of doubt about Daphne’s innocence sprout in Courtney’s mind. With only a germ of a clue, Courtney will have to overturn every rock to get the dirt on the real killer . . .

My Review:

A Twinkle of Trouble is the fifth book in the Fairy Garden Mystery series. Featuring fairies, cats, and a wonderful cast of characters, A Twinkle of Trouble is another slam dunk cozy mystery.

Courtney Kelly's fairy garden shop is booming. Between walk-in private lessons, group lessons, and individual sales, Open Your Imagination has become a popular destination for both believers and non-believers. Courtney even hosts fairy garden parties.

Courtney's fairy friend has returned from the fairy realm. Fiona had been gone a month, much to Courtney and her feline companion Pixie's dismay. Life can now get back to normal, and Courtney can focus on the Summer Blooms Festival and her quarter-acre of land at the Flower Farm. Except, the death of Courtney's friend Genevieve dims the happiness and excitement of the festival and farm.

This is a very unique story with unique elements. I enjoyed the fairy garden shop setting, complete with a live fairy. The characters are fun and exciting. I enjoyed Courtney's character. Her business is successful and thriving. She cares about her friends and citizens in Carmel-by-the-Sea and makes it her mission to help solve the crime, even when a couple of her friends appear as suspects. The author delivers several suspects with means and motive, and figuring out who committed the crime was difficult. There are twists and turns and red herrings, and while I may have suspected who committed the crime, I never was really sure until the end.

I was provided a copy of this book to read.

My Rating:

Visit Daryl Wood Gerber: 

WEBSITE

NEWSLETTER

Purchase Link:

Amazon

This blog uses affiliate links.

#BookReview ~ Battered and Buried (An All-Day Breakfast Cafe Mystery) by Lena Gregory #CozyMystery

Battered and Buried (An All-Day Breakfast Cafe Mystery) by Lena Gregory

Battered and Buried (An All-Day Breakfast Cafe Mystery)

Cozy Mystery

7th in Series

Setting - Florida

Publisher: ‎ Beyond the Page (March 19, 2024)

Paperback: ‎ 188 pages

ISBN-10: ‎ 1960511580

ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1960511584 

Digital ASIN: ‎ B0CW18PPSQ

About Battered and Buried:

The best-laid plans may go awry, but the best-laid clues could frame a man for murder . . . Never one to let a day off work go to waste, café owner Gia Morelli and a friend head out for a blissful kayaking trip through the local national forest. But the peacefulness of the day is soon shattered when they come across Cole, her head cook, standing over a dead body. Worse still, the victim was a lifelong enemy of Cole’s, and clues found on the body point to the cook as the culprit. When the police take Cole in and subject him to an intense grilling, Gia vows to do everything she can to prove his innocence. As even more incriminating evidence surfaces—including when the murder weapon itself is found hidden at the café—Gia knows she’s up against someone brutal enough to kill and devious enough to frame Cole for the deed. With the police ready to make an official arrest and wrap up what they consider an open-and-shut case, Gia turns for help to an old friend who’s not above breaking the law himself. Because if she can’t find the killer, Cole may go from serving up hot dishes to serving a life sentence . . .

My Review:

Battered and Buried is the 7th book in the amazing All-Day Breakfast Cafe Mystery series. Gia finds her head cook embroiled in the murder of an unpleasant newcomer. The evidence against Cole continues to stack up but Gia knows beyond a shadow of a doubt that he's not guilty. Proving it, however, has become a full-time job.

I really enjoyed Battered and Buried. The book is perfectly paced - not too fast and not too slow. I was pulled in from the very beginning and engaged in the plot. The character development continues, and we learn more about the characters and learn backstory without being bogged down with useless filler. The story was fun, exciting, suspenseful, and full of twists and turns. I had a wonderful time trying to figure out just what happened and who was responsible. The continued world building is great, and I was able to visualize the story.

Gia came from New York one person and has since evolved into another as she gets used to the differences in Florida. Gia is a very strong character and I enjoy the books about her world. I love that the author does not, at any time, write her as weak or unstable. She's just had a very rough past that she thought she would escape by moving away from her former life and completely starting over. Samantha and Hunt are stability characters for Gia. Savannah is a wonderful best friend and Hunt is an excellent partner.

The characters are all likeable, the setting in Florida is nice. The chemistry between Gia and Hunt is sweet and believable. I prefer a little bit of soft romance in my cozy mysteries. I really enjoy the author's writing style and love her Bay Island Mystery series.

Previously reviewed on Sapphyria's Books.

I was provided a copy of this book.

My Rating:

Visit the Author: 

Newsletter

 Website

Purchase Link:

Amazon

This blog uses affiliate links.

#BookReview ~ Double Scoop of Murder (Coffee & Cream Café Mysteries) by Lena Gregory ~ @LenaGregory03 #CozyMystery

Double Scoop of Murder (Coffee & Cream Café Mysteries) by Lena Gregory

Double Scoop of Murder (Coffee & Cream Café Mysteries)

Cozy Mystery

3rd in Series

Setting:  New York

Gemma Halliday Publishing (February 27, 2024)

Number of Pages: 226

Digital ASIN: ‎ B0CKV7QQB8

From author Lena Gregory comes a hunt for more than just treasure...

About Double Scoop to Murder:

Danika Delany is loving running her uncle's old fashioned malt shop on eastern Long Island and putting her own modern spin on the treats they serve. Life is finally looking up for her! That is, until local billionaire Maxwell Crumbholtz dies and leaves his fortune in the form of a treasure hunt. Chaos descends on Watchogue, and Dani and the rest of the gang from the Coffee & Cream Café join the melee when they enter the contest, try to decipher the clues, and go in search of the treasure. But Dani digs up more than she expected when she discovers a dead body buried instead of a treasure! To make matters worse, a witness claims to have seen Dani at the scene of the murder. Now, instead of a four-billion-dollar payday, Dani is on the hunt for a killer.

My Review:

A Double Scoop of Murder is third wonderful book in the Coffee & Cream Café Mystery series.

Lena Gregory has dished up another winner with A Double Scoop of Murder. A cleverly crafted mystery, delightful characters, and a fun small town with the infamous busybodies. I loved being back in this world.

I love the treasure hunt aspect of Double Scoop of Murder. As the treasure hunt is taking place, a body is found, ratcheting up the intensity of the story. The murder mystery was well-developed, and I was completely engaged in the hunt for the suspect. There are many twists and turns, and every time I thought I solved the murder, the arc shifted, and we were chasing down someone else.

I loved every single page of this book from the characters, the setting, the mystery, and the author's writing style. I found myself totally immersed in every facet of Double Scoop of Murder. The pacing was perfect and once I started the book, I just couldn't put it down.

I was provided a copy of this book.

Review previously published on Sapphyria's Books.

My Rating:

Purchase Link:

Amazon

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Saph's Cozy Corner.

#BookReview ~ Ranch & Red Herrings (Bluegrass Ridge Ranch Mystery, Book 1) by Tonya Kappes ~ #CozyMystery

 

ASIN: ‎ B0F652KD1Y

Publisher: Tonya Kappes Books

Publication date: June 27, 2025

Print length: 292 pages

Amazon

Goodreads

Murder’s just another scandal waiting on the porch.

Georgia “Cussy” Hollingsworth thought she’d left small-town drama behind when she traded Kentucky for city life. But when her beloved uncle dies under suspicious circumstances, she’s pulled straight back to the last place she wanted to be—right into the middle of a horse and cattle ranch she never asked for and a murder she can’t ignore.

The plan was simple: settle his affairs, sell the property, and head home. Instead, Cussy finds herself tangled in long-held grudges, whispered secrets, and neighbors who remember everything—except who had a reason to kill.

Now she's balancing farm chores with fact-finding, dodging shady locals, and stumbling across more questions than answers. And with someone clearly trying to scare her off, Cussy has to decide: walk away, or dig in her heels and uncover the truth—before the killer makes her the next loose end to tie up.

Small town. Big secrets. And a reluctant sleuth who’s about to learn that some roots run deeper than she ever imagined.

My Review:

Ranch & Red Herrings if the first book in a brand new series by Tonya Kappes. Georgia "Cussy" Hollingsworth is called back to the small town where her uncle Amos and cousins live after the unexpected death of her uncle. Her uncle's death reveals an unexpected inheritance. She was chosen to take over the ranch instead of her cousins. As she's trying to figure out ranch life and whether or not it's for her, the cause of Amos's death is revealed. Now Cussy is not only trying to run a ranch but also find a murderer.

Ranch & Red Herrings is a fast-paced murder mystery. Cussy is a great character but I wish she was more confident and stood up for herself. I loved meeting the supporting characters. Each one brought their own uniqueness to the story.

I found myself working with Cussy to develop a suspect list. There are several people in town who have means, motive and/or opportunity. The author does a great job setting up the mystery. There are twists and turns, taking the reader on a wild ride through a working ranch. I do think the suspect reveal and ending were a bit abrupt but after the explanation was relayed, it does make sense. The person involved was never even on my radar. The author set the mystery up well and I ended up being surprised at how everything played out. Well done!

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

My Rating:

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Sapphyria’s Books.