A Bit of Razzle Dazzle

Holidaze in Salem #4

by Kelly Elliott

Lucas is in denial.
I know he possesses magical powers.

My sister says it will reveal in due time.
But I think not helping things along would be a crime.

So, I decided to do what I do best.
Create a spell to do all the rest.

A little razzle dazzle potion is needed stat.
Unfortunately it also affects the new guy in town, Matt.

Oh dear … my sister now has to babysit a man
Who thinks witches and warlocks are not part of the plan.

Power Unbinding Spell

A bit of moon dust is a must.
A sprig of hair gotten on a dare!
Add a pinch of sage spice to make everything nice.

Grind it into the finest powder and sprinkle on a dandelion flower.
Blow into the wind and let the binded powers rescind!

A Bit of Razzle Dazzle is the last novella in the Holidaze in Salem series.

Genres: Holiday, Romance, Novella

103 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 7, 2023

About the author

Kelly Elliott is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling contemporary romance author. Since finishing her bestselling Wanted series, Kelly continues to spread her wings while remaining true to her roots and giving readers stories rich with hot protective men, strong women and beautiful surroundings.

Her bestselling works include, Wanted, Broken, Without You, and Unconditional Love, to name just a few.

Kelly has been passionate about writing since she was fifteen. After years of filling journals with stories, she finally followed her dream and published her first novel, Wanted, in November of 2012.

Kelly lives in central Texas with her husband, daughter, and two pups. When she’s not writing, Kelly enjoys reading and spending time with her family. She is down to earth and very in touch with her readers, both on social media and at signings.

To find out more about Kelly and her books, you can find her through her website.

www.kellyelliottauthor.com

Reviews

[Philippa - (The British Bibliophile) · Rating 5 out of 5]

'This read razzle-dazzled its way into my heart and injected some much-needed magick! Kelly delivers the best of the Holidaze with this final novella in the series' - The British Bibliophile

Thank you to Kelly Elliott for sending me an ebook Advanced Readers Copy for me to read and leave an honest review as part of her ARC Team & Wrangler Team

*This review DOES NOT contain spoilers about this novella, but touches lightly upon the series as a whole without revealing any key details*

A Bit of Razzle Dazzle is the fourth and final novella in Kelly Elliott's 'Holidaze in Salem' series. This series has come to an end all too quickly, it seems. I enjoyed the change of pace from full-length novels so much, I lost track of the days and gobbled up each instalment until here we are, at the end. So much has been packed into each novella, and I sincerely hope that fellow Kelly readers and romance readers looking for something extra--and magickal--, that this is the series that will encapsulate you as it did me.

Stepping outside of the small-town, swoon-worthy cowboy, second chance romance tropes, Kelly first brought us to Salem, Massachusetts, with A Bit of Hocus Pocus , introducing us two our newest two main character stars, Lucas Dayton and Hollie Craft. These two were far from smitten kittens or childhood sweethearts when we first met them, oh no. They needed a little bit of a helping hand in the form of something...witchy. Something that would usually be done with precision and care if done in the hands of someone who knows the ways of witchcraft. 'If' being the key word. Chaos and hilarity ensue as both Hollie and Lucas drift closer and closer, and everything around them begins to get out-of-hand and out-of-control.

This was truly the calm before the Christmas storm.

Books two and three, A bit of Holly Holly & A Wee Bit of Luck saw things rapidly shift and change for the pair and those around them, including a cliffhanger or two (grr! but oh so good!), preparing us for this last instalment which would see either things magically come together or whirl further out of control as the witches of Salem seem to have met their match. That, dear readers, you'll discover for yourselves.

Out of all the novellas, A Bit of Dazzle Dazzle probably has to be my favourite--which is saying a lot considering how much everyone knows I LOVE anything and everything Christmas, hello book two--, as everything has built up to this moment where everything will be wrapped up in a nice, neat little bow. Getting to that moment was full of everything I know and love about Kelly and her work. As much as I love a good romance novel/novella--which this SO is--, it was nice to read something that gave me non-stop laughs and put many a smile on my face. It brought to us not just Lucas and Holly, but the whole Salem gang and they truly are the most unfortunate, funny, unlucky in some cases, bunch, and its been a pleasure to read and get to know them as this series built up.

It's books like these that make me fall harder and harder for spooky season and books about anything witch/warlock. Kelly's contribution to the genre does her and it so much justice.

A Bit of Dazzle Dazzle finished things off in the best way I could have hoped for, after happily investing in this series. I'm not going to lie, I hope we make a return to Salem someway, somehow, just so we can see some of the characters again (as I could SO read a spin-off story about quite a few of them). Kelly's time and investment into creating this world for us hasn't gone unnoticed or unappreciated, and only cements further why she is one of my top authors and an author for life.

Thank you so much Kelly, for this novella and a truly shelf-worthy series!

[readwithmichele · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was slightly underwhelming for me. It's the last book in the Holidaze in Salem series, and there were times I couldn't get past the poor editing. There were also typos throughout which is hard to see on a final, published book.
Overall I liked the series, but this last one fell flat for me.

[Patti Lucas · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Fourth of July surprise from Kelly Elliott. I absolutely loved A Bit of Razzle Dazzle by Kelly Elliott, the fourth and final book in her Holidaze in Salem novella series! Kelly Elliott has once again delivered another wonderful romance with A Bit of Razzle Dazzle and has once again provided her readers with amazing characters. I love all the characters in A Bit of Razzle Dazzle and how feel like best friends! Kelly Elliott continues to deliver all that and so much more. Kelly Elliott has once again proven that she is an incredible storyteller and one of my favorite authors to read. A Bit of Razzle Dazzle truly did not disappoint, it was impossible to put it down and I loved every moment on every page. One of my favorite parts is how Kelly Elliott incorporated the title of the book into the love story with a simple statement by Hollie’s mother, Elaine. I love that Kelly Elliott writes her stories in the first person from the perspective of the main characters. I love getting inside their minds and knowing their thoughts and how they really feel. A Bit of Razzle Dazzle is a wonderful love story and is filled with heartbreaking and heartwarming moments. It is filled with all those things that we have come to love and expect in a Kelly Elliott love story, especially the poignant and bittersweet moments that filled this page turner. I love the lighter moments where I find myself smiling and laughing aloud. My favorite moments are the ones that pull at my heartstrings that cause me to sigh, as I read the heartbreaking moments. A Bit of Razzle Dazzle is filled with such moments, and with so much more. A Bit of Razzle Dazzle continues to follow the relationship of Hollie and Lucas Dayton. Hollie and Lucas decide to return home to Salem since they are both homesick and want to be around family during Hollie’s pregnancy. Hollie believes that Lucas has magick, but he does not and will not admit to it. Once again, Hollie chooses to use her magick to cast a spell on Lucas, along with the help of her sister, Sarah and friend, Kristen. Hollie being Hollie, the spell did not go off as originally intended. I love everything that Lucas discovers at the archeological site that he returned to Salem to assist with. I love all the truly magickal moments and how Lucas finally realizes that he really has power. I love Hollie’s relationship with her sister, Sarah and how she is always seeking advice from Sarah regarding her magick and her spells. I love that Sarah was able to find her own happily ever after in A Bit of Razzle Dazzle. Love how Hollie’s spell gone wrong helps with that. I loved all the characters in A Bit of Razzle Dazzle, all my favorites from the series and the new characters just introduced. A love the surprises that take place throughout the story. A Bit of Razzle Dazzle is filled with bittersweet and poignant moments and the surprise plot twists, that I have come to love and expect in Kelly Elliott's stories. A Bit of Razzle Dazzle is an incredibly written love story, and I loved every moment. I loved the epilogue and how it occurs six years later, and the other surprises that were revealed. Highly recommend this beautifully written story. I loved the Holidaze in Salem novella series and all the magick! So sad that it is over.

[Tracy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The magic continues but I really wish it was just a tad bit longer. This one seemed very rushed. It’s always a bit of fun visiting my favorite characters in this cute novella series, but this one just seemed to jump around a bit and not give as much care to the characters we have come to love. Hollie and her crazy antics always make me smile, but this one had the potential to make me love her sister a little more too. It just didn’t quite get there for me.

I did love the bit of magical past worked in about the baby. I just needed more to the story. But….I did love it whenever the whole gang was together!!

Anywho….overall it was a good time but I will miss Hollie and the gang. 😉

[Lina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had a lot of fun with the "Holidaze in Salem" series. The last book finished with quite a lot of magic and mayhem which was typical for Hollie.

Overall, I enjoyed the entire series and the romance in them ♥️.

[Jennie Fortna · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Bit of Razzle Dazzle is boo4 in the Holidaze in Salem by Kelly Elliott and the final book in this series of “magick”.

Lucas and Hollie head back to Salem when Lucas is asked to supervise a dig in their hometown. Watch what happens as Lucas discovers that maybe he does have “magick” as Hollie says…but another tiny twist helps things along…what a gear read to ties things together and make you wish there were more books with these amazing characters! If you haven’t read any of these books you are totally missing out on a great series by Ms. Elliott!

I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Nikki McAbee · Rating 5 out of 5]

AMAZING

To read the whole series was beyond amazing if you have not read any of them stop right now and read them in order. You won't be disappointed except the series ending. Kelly Elliott you did amazing good. Loved every single one.

[Abby · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've enjoyed all of Hollie and Lucas's stories so I was ready for this one! It was so cute and fun to read!
They learned some history in their families. And of course, Hollie does some magick.

[Erin Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 star Review of A Bit Of Razzle Dazzle (Holidaze in Salem #) by Kelly Elliott
If you haven't read the previous books in the latest series from Kelly Elliott, then STOP. These books need to be read in order, so you have been warned. I am sad that this is the last book in the Holidaze in Salem series. This series is one I have thoroughly enjoyed, and I could not wait to see what Kelly Elliott had in store for Hollie Craft and Lucas Dayton in this final book.
Hollie and Lucas have returned home to Salem after their adventures in Ireland. Everyone is thrilled to have them home. Poor Lucas he is shocked to learn what the others have always suspected that he too has the gift of magick and that was entertaining as we read.
As with the previous books I quickly found myself captivated by the story that Ms. Elliott wove. These characters are so endearing that you cannot help but fall for them. There was a good mix of passion, romance and witty banter, add in spells that seem to go wrong and you have a well written, entertaining story that left me with a smile on my face.
I believe that Ms. Elliott has saved the best for last with A Bit Of Razzle Dazzle.

[Jackie Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Bit Of Razzle Dazzle is the final book in the Holidaze in Salem Series and it’s a wonderful conclusion to Hollie and Lucas’s journey. I do need to point out that you need to read all the books in order and none of them are stand-alone’s. If you are looking for a series that is going to leave you smiling look no further than this fun, entertaining series set in the magical Salem.
Hollie and Lucas are back home in Salem after following their dreams and adventures in Ireland. Everyone is happy they are home but Lucas is not thrilled to find out he has the gift of magick……..
What follows is a fun, entertaining read with plenty of witty banter, this series has the perfect mix of love, passion, friendships and witty banter and I guess all that’s left to say is “ this one ticked all my boxes”.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

A bit of razzle dazzle is book 4 and the finale in a series that’s all novellas. The series follows Hollie and Lucas from the very beginning throughout the novellas and must be read in order. I absolutely loved this finale it was everything I hoped for and more. I loved how Kelly took us though out the pregnancy after Hollie and Lucas returned form Ireland. And we get to have another special spell that Hollie makes, bonus!! Not to mention we get to have a little mystery that Hollie and Lucas must solve. I loved all the magick Hollie tried to make and one way or another always backfired. Kelly not only gives us the story of the main characters but we also got to experience the magick of the side characters and watch them get their happy endings. Thank you Kelly for another amazing series while I’m sad to see these characters leave us I absolutely loved the idea of novellas.

[Ginny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this final instalment of this series and was so sad when it ended!! Hollie & Lucas are now back in Salem and Hollie is determined to prove to Lucas he is a witch - which of course doesn't run smoothly bless Hollie. I loved how it brought his job to the forefront in this story and i loved how it all connected. I loved the story for Sarah which i think tied everything up perfectly. The epilogue was perfect and made me want more of these two as they made me smile, laugh and brightened up my day. Another cracker from our Kelly.

[Jac · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is Christmas in Salem and what will Hollie be up to this joyful season???
Hollie might just be back at it again with her spells but this time. It's her BFF...
Lucas is madly in love with Hollie and no, not under a spell at all but Lucas get's the call of his dream job.
Will Christmas be that little bit special with a question? Yes!!!
We watch two BFF's realise they cannot fight there feelings for each other, once the spell is broken of course.
And the next adventure for Lucas and Hollie that will end with a Positive.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book

[Tara Peters · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fun series and I am sad that it is over. This was a great way to end Lucas’ and Hollie’s story. All of her sisters and his friend added wonderful background to their history. Add in Charlotte and the house in Lucas’ archeological dig and I found myself riveted to this book. Everything Lucas discovered about himself and his friend was interesting.

I really enjoyed this book and wish we could have more. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.

[Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great continued story but the editing is really bad. Some chapters say Lucas when it's clearly Hollies POV. And then Charlotte is referred to as Catherine so it's a little confusing. Words are missing so also make things confusing and the constant rereading of a sentence to figure out what the sentence actually is saying get annoying. I suggest a reedit or maybe even see if the wrong file was loaded to amazon.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a great way to end this mini series of holiday novellas.

I loved the magic element and how this all played out and how this final book tied all the others together and gave us the HEA we were all looking for.

If you are looking for great holiday novellas to read pick up this series by Kelly Elliott. I think you will truly enjoy them.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say it again I love Hollie and Lucas. They are just so much fun to read about. The story picks up were A Bit Of Wee Luck left us. The thing about Magick you just don't know when it will pop up. This was a wonderful journey to get to know Hollie and Lucas and for her to come into her Magick. She may not be perfect but oh so much fun.

[Jennifer Moody · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing. To see the struggles of people come to a conclusion in a positive way is amazing. How two people can connect and one not realizing the powers he may have but starts to believe when the things happening cannot be explained is exactly how it should be. This book is a must read and I will for sure read it again! Kelly knocked it out of the park.

[Amy Leibenguth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Lucas and Hollie continue on their path of love and Hollie finding her powers. She definitely doesn’t know the strength of her powers. And she definitely wants to help Lucas find his. There is fun and laughs as the story unfolds.

It’s important to read this series in order. So start with book 1!

[Jennifer Brewster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect Ending to the Series!

This was suuuuuch a fun series and I’m so sad it’s over. I loved following Hollie and Lucas from the beginning to them building their family and all the Magick that came with it.

I loved the back story of the house and Charlotte. This was a phenomenal series!!!

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a cute conclusion to this novella series! As with the others this one had me laughing throughout it! This cast of characters were all so funny! I was hooked immediately and couldn’t put it down! I am sad that our time with this crew is over! This series definitely needs to be read in order! I absolutely recommend it!

Received a arc for a honest review.

[Nicki - The Overflowing Bookcase · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great way to end the series but with Lucas also getting in on the magick side of things. With the addition of Charlotte and the back and forth between past and present it was a wild ride. The ending will put a smile on your face. I would love to see these characters again when their family becomes complete.

[Lana-White Hot Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the final book in this series, I think its by far the best. Lucas finally starts to think he truly is a witch or warlock and the story about the baby and dig they are doing in Salem is wonderful. I love how Hollie tries to fix everything with magick and spells. I absolutely love this series!!

[ReadTillDawnBooks ~ IG · Rating 5 out of 5]

The end to this novella series was the perfect ending for Lucas and Hollie. I really enjoyed Hollie’s antics and her fun personality. The way Lucas loved Hollie was epic. Start at the beginning, you won’t be disappointed.

[Marika · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lucas and Hollie saved the best for last! With Hollie pregnant and desperate to show her husband his potential, what can she possibly do if not a little magick?! This story was fun and cute but also truly magical.. the end made me smile and wish for more, that's for sure!

[Kim · Rating 3 out of 5]

always so short

Leaves me wanting so much more every time!

Charlotte was interesting. What she said in the epilogue was so sad.
I wouldn't have minded seeing a little more of what Lucas could do.

[Jennifer Webb · Rating 5 out of 5]

What A Conclusion!!!!

It was a spectacular conclusion to Hollie’s story with Lucas and friends. It answered a lot of questions and gave you historical context and witchcraft. Kelly did an amazing job of wrapping everything up in a pretty bow. I would love to get more some day.

[mrs S A Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rom Com gold

Brilliant writing should be snapped up by a film company and brought to the screen
Good. Strong characters supported by a well written dialogue
Each of the books are fabulous

[Keely · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was cute, but definitely not my favorite Kelly Elliott series, but still good enough to finish it. Hollie is always up to something with her spells and was interesting to find out that Lucas might have the magick as well. The time travel with Charolette was interesting as well.

[Reading On The Prairies · Rating 5 out of 5]

another five star from this series.

Must be read in order. Begins were the previous book ended. Concluded with a good ending. Enjoyed this series!!! Each book is a quick read so I was able to finish all books quickly.