The Bibliomancer's Daughter

Book Magic Novels #1

by Melissa Bourbon

Step into 'The Bibliomancer’s Daughter' and embark on an unforgettable journey where the past and present are bound by the pages of a book, and the future hinges on the courage to embrace one's destiny.


#1 Amazon Bestseller! Perfect for fans of Ellery Adams, Barbara Davis, Adrienne Young, and Matt Haig.

“...a deftly crafted and impressively original novel by an author with a genuine flair for originality...certain to be an unusual, immediate and enduringly popular addition to community library Mystery/Suspense collections…” ~Midwest Book Review

***
Unravel the Secrets of the Lane Family

After two decades away, Pippin Lane Hawthorne and her twin brother, Grey, find themselves drawn back to their birthplace—the mysterious and windswept Outer Banks island of Devil’s Cove. What they hoped would be a fresh start soon takes a sinister turn when they uncover a chilling secret hidden within their late father's old fishing boat. The discovery sets them on a path that intertwines the present with their deeply buried past.

A Legacy

Pippin has been unaware of her family's extraordinary gift of bibliomancy, the ability to divine the future and uncover truths through the pages of books. But with dark forces closing in and the weight of her parents' mysterious demise pressing on her, she realizes that embracing her destiny is the only way forward. Through the pages of books, she uncovers startling revelations about the Lane family's centuries-old curse, revealing fragments of a tragic history. With Grey by her side, Pippin embarks on a quest to break the curse and free their family from its shadow.

‘The Bibliomancer’s Daughter’ weaves a mesmerizing tale of suspense and intrigue where ancient curses and hidden truths collide. Join Pippin as she navigates a labyrinth of secrets and discovers the strength within herself to fight for her family's future.



“A magical blend of books, mystery, and smart sleuthing, Melissa Bourbon’s The Bibliomancer's Daughter offers mystery readers everything they crave and stands out in the crowded cozy genre. This captivating new series will leave readers spellbound.”-NYT and USA bestselling author, Ellery Adams


*Formerly published as Murder in Devil's Cove

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Cozy, Fiction, Paranormal, Fantasy, Family

Kindle Edition

Published March 1, 2023

About the author

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***

Melissa Bourbon is the national bestselling author of more than forty novels and nonfiction writing resource books. All of her books feature strong female and family relationships, bits of history, and lots of fun.

Melissa used to teach middle school English/Language Arts, but now she teaches creative writing to adults. She founded WriterSpark Academy, an online school for aspiring and new writers seeking to hone their craft.

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Reviews

[Linda Langford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great cozy mystery with a para-twist. Women in Pippin’s family tree have the unusual gift of bibliomancy; however, there‘s also a curse that needs to be reckoned with. Pippin is just now discovering her gift and trying to figure out how it works. She and her twin brother are renovating an old house into an Inn, and finding some nifty clues about the disappearance of their father. The plot is really interesting and I enjoyed this debut story of the Book Magic Mysteries. As a pet lover, Pippin’s rescue of the abandoned dog touched my heart. Melissa Bourbon is a seasoned writer and this is a well-plotted and well-written story. I’m looking forward to reading the next book.

[Yvonne G · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Every book tells two stories”

Ah! A truly satisfying read, which although it works more than well as a stand alone story, has an ending which has been cleverly crafted to make it definitive, yet with just enough unspoken intrigue, to make this the first episode in what promises to be an excellent series.

I am not usually engaged by stories which have aspects of fantasy woven into them. However I am really pleased that I decided to give this one a try, as the blending of genres between fantasy, cozy mystery and murder, was very subtle and seamless, leaving me only needing to suspend belief by a smidgen and making this a lovely family saga to escape into. Although I have to admit that the thought of needing to cross the road to avoid passing a library or book shop, and the notion of banning all books from the house apart from those which are hidden from sight, gives me the shivers to even contemplate!

The chapters were deliberately neat and concise, which kept the pace of the story moving forward fluidly, with each opening paragraph featuring a well-placed and relevant quote from a selection of Melissa’s fellow authors and other notable communicators.

Who would have thought that two murders, more than twenty years apart, fuelled by greed, jealous revenge and unrequited love, would have been so connected? The ripping apart of a family, as forewarned by its young and vulnerable wife and mother, is the catalyst which sets this unstoppable train of events in motion, as descendants are now trying to make sense of a longstanding curse, which only seems to afflict the female members of the family.

Whilst twins, Pippin and Grey realise that their family heritage does have something of a unique history, being brought up away from Devil’s Cove means they have been shielded from much of the detail. Now the reality that much of what they had assumed about historical events, hadn’t quite been as black and white as they had thought, or been led to believe, has opened the floodgates of emotion when fiercely guarded secrets are brought to bear as they seek to uncover the truth. Pippin has to not only turn amateur sleuth to unmask a murderer, but must overcome her own personal fears and taboos, to unlock the secrets of the past.

This well structured, slightly unconventional, multi-layered storyline, is highly textured, rich in detail and atmosphere and as an accomplished storyteller, author Melissa Bourbon skilfully, confidently and effortlessly led the direction she wanted me to take on this journey, almost without me noticing. There is a compelling blend of assured, observational and descriptive narrative, mixed with some excellent conversational dialogue, which allows all of the characters a voice and which offers a real sense of time and place that is almost tangible. I could imagine myself sat on the veranda of the Lane Hawthorne family home, in my comfy Adirondack chair, gazing out to sea – with a cup of tea and a book by my side, of course!

Melissa has developed an authentic cast of well drawn, defined and developed characters, most of whom are open books to be explored and to connect with, although our suspects have more than adequately inveigled themselves into the community as trusted and stalwart members, with nary a thought or care, which did totally catch me and seemingly everyone else, unawares, even the most curious of neighbours! I became completely invested in Pippin for her genuine and believable forthright honesty, and the fact that she isn’t afraid to let her vulnerabilities define her as a person, although I suspect that it is going to take a while for her to find her new place amongst old friends. The past is also always going to play quite a large part in Pippin’s future, as she seeks to unravel and unlock, the mysterious folklore driven roots of her Irish ancestry.

Whilst as twins, Pippin and Grey will always be inseparable and there for one another no matter what, with the knowledge that the challenge of the curse has to be Pippin’s alone to learn to live with, Grey has taken this opportunity to relax those bonds and gently guide them down their separate pathways of self-actualization, individual challenges and personal relationship development, although he is never going to be too far from her side.

I rather suspect that, once she is over the initial shock and surprise of this mini separation, Pippin will soon find her feet as a member of the community, especially with one certain gentleman, who will no doubt be encouraging her new found love of the written word. I suspect that a new partner of the four-legged variety is also set to take centre stage in the future and Pippin will have her work cut out in being her new friend’s ears on the world!

I read for four many reasons: enjoyment, entertainment, escapism and emotion and this book definitely ticked all those ‘e’ boxes, and then some.

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[Melissa Bourbon]

A lovely endorsement for Murder in Devil's Cove from the also lovely Ellery Adams.

LOVE!

[Moondance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassandra Lane Hawthorne stood on the main fishing pier in Devil's Cove staring out at the harbor, grasping the pendant she wore around her neck.

This is the first book in the Book Magic series. The series will alternate between Melissa Bourbonand Wendy Lyn Watson. The first book introduces us to Pippin and Grey Hawthorne who have returned to their childhood home in Devil's Cove after being away for 20 years.

The Lane women have the gift/curse of bibliomancy. They also are destined to die in childbirth and lose their husbands to the sea. Pippin has never been a reader because of the bibliomancy although she really didn't know much about it until her cousin Cora spilled family secrets.

I loved the setting of Devil's Cove! I'm embarrassed to admit that as a native of North Carolina that I have never been to the Outer Banks. I really must remedy that. The town is filled with interesting and quirky characters that are a delight to read. Of course, most people know about Cassandra's "gift" and are anxious to meet Pippin and Grey.

The literary mentions in the book made me so happy. I am a long time LOTR nerd and felt right at home. Other little things like Ms. Havisham, the bookstore cat, made me smile. The bookstore's owner, Jamie, made me smile as well.

I love the side story of Pippin trying to rescue the skinny, deaf dog that hangs out around the house. I know the author is a huge animal lover and I enjoy how that was woven into the storyline.

The house that will become Sea Captain's Inn sounds amazing! I wanted to walk in and explore every inch of it. I can't wait for the next book when we will be able to learn more about this stately home.

The two murders that occur twenty years apart are very well done and left me guessing until more clues were revealed. Pippin was smart with her sleuthing and did not purposely put herself in danger. She is a strong woman that thinks quickly on her feet.

I love, love, love Hattie Juniper Pickle. I've very much afraid that given free rein I could become Hattie. Except for the extra sweet tea. Lol!

This was an excellent book that I really enjoyed reading. I have the second book on preorder and it can't get here soon enough.

Well done, Melissa Bourbon. Well done.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder in Devil’s Cove by Melissa Bourbon is the debut of A Magic Book Mystery series. I thought the story was well-written and absorbing. I liked the characters, especially the elder Mr. McAdams. The author took the time to establish the main characters and well as the town. I enjoyed the descriptions of Devil’s Cove and the house the twins inherited. It was fun following Pippin as she explored the town and made friends. The mysteries were fascinating. Two murders that occur two decades apart. The second half of the book had me quickly flipping the pages of my ereader. The suspense increased as we got closer to the end and the identity of the killer. I could not wait to see if I had guessed correctly (I love solving whodunits). The paranormal aspect was interesting. Pippin discovers her special ability and must figure out how to use it. Magic and books are a wonderful combination (bibliomancy). I look forward to learning more about the families magic and the lore. I thought the author beautifully intertwined magic and mystery. The one thing I did not enjoy was the foul language. Murder in Devil’s Cove is an intriguing tale with forbidden books, a departed dad, family folklore, mysterious magic, renovation revelations, and one bewildered bibliomancer.

[Sue Em · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder and magic. Books and friendship. All themes combine under the skillful pen of Melissa Bourbon in this enchanting series debut. Just about the only negative thing I could say about it now I have to wait for the next book to be published.

Pippin Hawthorne and her twin brother, Grey, have returned to the Outer Banks to renovate their childhood home and turn it into a B & B. While they have good memories from Devil's Cove, it's also where their mother died. Three years later their father, Leo, disappeared forcing them to live with their paternal grandmother. When a Leo's body is found, chances are high that their father did not abandon them as was speculated, but was, in fact, murdered. Investigating her father's murder leads Pippin to discover that she has inherited her mother's gift/curse of bibliomancy -- where words sometimes fly off the written page transformed into prophesies. As she searches for the truth about her parents, she begins to open up allowing herself to trust others and realize the power and value of friendship.

Highly recommended!

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the concept of A Book Magic Mysteries, two authors writing a series together, but writing separate books. While Murder in Devil’s Cove by Melissa Bourbon has an ending and we find out what really happened to their father, there are still questions that need to be answered and it segues perfectly into the next book in the series, Death at Cape Misery by Wendy Lyn Watson.

I think people who enjoy cozies or mysteries will really like Book Magic Mysteries since they are a traditional mystery with cozy elements. Meaning the murders take place off scene, there is no gore, there is a small town community, the heroine turns into an amateur sleuth, and the bad guy gets caught with a final showdown.

But while it has cozy elements it definitely has a different feel than a cozy. It feels a bit more substantial, not quite as fluffy as a traditional cozy. Pippin is dealing with a family tragedy, exploring her emotions while experiencing personal growth, and trying to stop a curse and not just leaving her place of work to talk to the locals and track down the bad guys like in cozies. And while we do get to read about a small town, to me the town didn’t feel as explored in depth as traditional cozies. So this is a wonderful hybrid of the two genres!

Bourbon incorporated the supernatural elements into the story really well. It didn’t feel unreal like a mystery with werewolves or vampires. Having the curse being part of the mystery that carries over to the next book is a wonderful way to leave readers wanting more and a pretty good guarantee that they will be reading the next book. And I will admit to asking a question and opening a random book to a random page and planting my finger down onto the page hoping the sentence I’m touching gives me the answer!

A great start to A Book Magic Mysteries, and I am looking forward to book two which will be out on December 1, 2020.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am so intrigued by this series! By the bibliomancy angle, by the way this book was written by one author with a focus on the East Coast cousin & the next book will be written by the other author and focus on the West Coast cousin & so forth & so on, by the ode to books that graces each chapter beginning and is lovingly woven through the whole story. By Pippin herself and her family legacy. By Jamie McAdams and possible connections maybe hinted at but that still aren’t clear between him and his grandfather and Pippin’s family gift. (Or maybe that’s my readerly mind working overtime – either way, I am intrigued.) By the subtle stirrings of romance that don’t overpower the story but appeal to the swoonlover in me nonetheless. By the old house with its secrets. And by what’s yet to come.

Murder at Devil’s Cove is a fascinating read in every way, and the author does a brilliant job of setting up the plot, the mysteries, and the discoveries. The friendships between Daisy, Ruby and Pippin – both old and new – are fun & heartwarming, and they add a touch or two of humor to lighten the tone when needed. Jamie, his grandfather, his bookstore, and his daughters were also a highlight for me, and I’m super curious to see how their relationship with Pippin & her family plays out in future books. (for instance, why does Pippin feel so oddly ‘at home’ in this particular bookshop???? I must know!) I could keep going on about how much this story captivated me – the atmosphere, the family gift, the characters, the setting – but I’m starting to repeat myself again lol.

Bottom Line: This book had me at ‘book magic’ and wrapped me up in its unique plot from start to finish! Readers will be immediately drawn to Pippin and her mystery-filled family history … and to watching Pippin begin to unearth the secrets that have swirled through Devil’s Cove – and her family line – long enough. I really enjoyed the set-up, the plot, the characters and the setting; they all added intriguing layers to the story, although there was perhaps a bit too much descriptive narrative from time to time. Murder in Devil’s Cove toes the line between a cozy and traditional mystery, but it’s a mix that works well. I’m looking forward to the rest of this series!

Reviewer’s Note: Readers may want to be aware that there is some scattered cursing and profanity in this novel.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower

[JoAn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder in Devil's Cove by Melissa Bourbon is the first book in a new mystery series titled Book Magic. The first chapter drew me in as it sets the stage for this story that involves the gift of bibliomancy that runs through the women of the Lane family. Or is it a curse?

A well-crafted plot with several twists, a cold case murder and a new death that may or may not be murder, and only a few suspects kept me turning the pages. I liked Pippin and felt so much sympathy for her because of her reading disability. It reminded me of how lucky I am that I can dive into a book and escape into another world for a short time. I would have enjoyed learning more about Grey, Pippin's twin brother, and maybe there will be more about him the next time I visit Devil's Cove. All of the characters are very likable. I'm half in love with the senior Mr. McAdams and Jamie, Daisy and Ruby bring insights and dimension to the small community of Devil's Cove. I'm can't wait to meet the Lane women who live in Oregon in the next book.

As a member of the Cozy Mystery Review Crew I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. All of the above opinions are my own.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well-crafted mystery that grabbed my attention from the beginning. Twins Pippin and Grey we’re raised by their grandparents after their mother’s death and their dad’s disappearance. Their grandparents didn’t really talk to them about their parents and they never saw their relatives from their mother’s side. Roughly a couple of decades after their dad’s disappearance the twins inherited their parents house and return to their home town. The two siblings are in for a lot of surprises.

This is a well-crafted mystery that grabbed my attention from the beginning. The characters are likable and interesting. I loved that will everything that is changing and in chaos Pippin makes it her priority to rescue a stray dog she believes is deaf. The mystery is well-plotted with a lot surprise and suspense. While everything going on is this book is nicely tied up, I have a feeling the next book is going to grab your attention as well.

All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder in Devil’s Cove Earns 5/5 Siren Songs…Engaging & Clever!

Cassandra Lane Hawthorne is at the pier looking out onto the Atlantic desperate that her husband Leo return from his fishing trip. She opines her family seemingly cursed as she physically avoids passing by the local library and bookshop. A figure approaches her and her six-year-old daughter dropping a book on the ground, its pages fall open. Cassie screams, makes an odd statement, and sobs…Twenty years later, the twin adult children of Leo and Cassie have returned home. Grey and Pippin plan to renovate the old beach house and open a seaside inn, yet navigating the emotions connected to the loss of their mother and disappearance of their father two decades ago is made more complicated by the discovery of a set of bones found in the hull of their father’s dilapidated fishing boat. A murder mystery. A family curse...gift? A bibliomancer in training. Will the answers Pippin seeks be less comforting and more dangerous?

Excellent! Melissa Bourbon created a fascinating history of the Outer Banks, family tree, a curse with untimely deaths, and a link the Lane women have to books. The investigation into Pippin’s father’s death expands with an engaging use of “bibliomancy” to find direction and insight into solving the twenty-year-old murder mystery and possible connections to a sunken boat along with a current drowning death seemingly unrelated. The complexity of the drama is easily followed with Bourbon’s rich descriptive narrative revealing clues through literary text from Homer’s “The Odyssey” along with contemporary resources like news reports, online searches, witnesses, and insiders. Everyone is suspicious…everyone! I’ve read enough mysteries that ended with “I didn’t see that coming!”, so I was always deliciously on the edge. And…Wow! I didn’t see that coming! Great intense ending! Pippin is a delightful lead, realistically defined with flaws related to her fears of abandonment, challenged with dyslexia, and a long practice of solitude, but her strength and resolve, her twin brother, and some really good friends will be her ultimate saving grace. And a treat! Enjoy a recipe for Ruby’s Ginger Cookies from The Devil’s Brew. Excellent! New favorite series!

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Any reader will tell you that books are magic! Murder in Devil's Cove takes it one step further and makes books even more magical. What a wonderful magic it would be to have bibliomancy. Pippin doesn't know she has this gift and discovering it and the solution to much of her past at the same time makes for a fast paced, suspenseful story that had this reader turning pages to the end. Ms. Bourbon crafts a wonderful story with many literary mentions and wonderful character building. This series promises to bring more magic to the world!

[Gayle B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The element of bibliomancy adds a very different twist. How fun would that be to have that "gift"? Maybe not, as Pippin discovers. Really good story of Pippin and Grey coming back home to claim their family house. As they work to restore the house and their dad's boat, secrets about the past are revealed and Pippin's life may now be in danger. The writing is very good. Just the right amount of description - you can picture the village of Devil's Cove, the house and how it is being renovated and the people of the village. I am excited to read the next two books. I highly recommend this book.
I received an ARC and voluntarily provided this review.

[Dianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

After a twenty-year absence, twenty-nine-year-old twins Pippin and Grey Hawthorne return to their childhood home on the island of Devil’s Cove in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Pippin and Grey’s mother died during childbirth in her second pregnancy, and the twins left Devil’s Cove after their father disappeared. When a body is discovered on their father’s fishing boat, Pippin not only decides to follow through with an investigation of her own but also learns that she has inherited the Lane family gift and/or curse of bibliomancy in which random passages from a book lift off the page as a message. Although bibliomancy has been passed down through generations of the Lane family and considered a curse, Pippin decides to use her recently discovered ability to try and find out what happened to their father and a recently drowned victim. Will Pippin find out the truth about their father’s disappearance? Was the drowning an accident or murder? Is there a connection between the two incidents?

Murder in Devil’s Cove is a great debut in the Book Magic Mystery Series. Melissa Bourbon grabs readers’ attention in the prologue, which sets the stage for a tale of mystery and intrigue. The quotes by well-known individuals at the beginning of the prologue and each of the chapters tie in superbly with the content. The artful use of sensory language brings the story to life and immerses readers into the fictional world created by Bourbon. A masterpiece of Greek literature is a key part of the storyline, and there are references to some classics and classic fantasy. Bourbon is spot-on in her portrayal of unique and well-developed characters with believable personality traits. Anyone with an affinity for dogs will like how Pippin takes it upon herself to try and rescue a stray dog. A sprinkling of swear words fits in with the story. At the end are recipes for baked goods that are included in this appealing mystery with supernatural phenomena. There are open-ended plot threads that can be explored with a continuation of the series, and Bourbon leaves readers anticipating the second book.

[Melanie Mckinney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pippin and Grey are twins that lost their mother when they were 6 years old. Their mother died during childbirth. Then three years later their father didn't return home from fishing and the twins were then sent to live with their grandparents. Fast forward 20 years later and the twins have returned back to their roots to redo their family home which Pippin wants to turn into a Bed and Breakfast. Pippin discovers that she has a secret power called bibliomancy. A body turns up and they never thought they would find this body the way they did. Did their dad really walk away from their family like they thought he did or did something else happen? With Pippin having the secret power of bibliomancy will it help her answer some of life's unanswered questions after all of these years?

This is the first book in the Book Magic Mystery series. Being that I have boy/girl twins myself I could really relate to Pippin and Grey. I also love the beach atmosphere so having the book setting in the Outer Banks of North Carolina was also another plus for me and of course anything that involves a dog hooks me in as I am a dog lover. I couldn't imagine how the twins felt though when they found the body. They had so many questions to answer throughout this book. This book was a terrific introductory book to the series. For me this was the first book that I have read from this author. This book kept me on my toes and had many different plot twists. I loved how the author went into great detail describing the atmosphere throughout the book. It made me be able to picture it so vividly in my mind. I am very much looking forward to reading more books by this author and especially the next one in this series.

[Vbloemer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder in Devil’s Cove is a first in a series must read. Magic and books make quite the interesting story line. Twenty years ago, Cassie Lane, moves from Oregon to North Carolina to escape her past and the Lane Women’s curse. She found out though you can’t really run away from it all. She falls in love with Leo Hawthorne and the two marry and have twins, Pippin and Grey. Cassie in fear of the family curse tries to steer clear of books, but when her and Pippin are out one day, that becomes impossible. Not long after the curse happens. The children are left with their father, who disappears a couple of years later. The paternal grand parents become their family. Eventually the grand parents die and the twins, all grown up now, inherit the house they lived in with their parents. Moving back to Devil’s cove, they begin to remodel the house to turn it into a bed and breakfast. Little did they know what would take place when they returned to town. A 20-year-old mystery and learning about her bibliomancy skills will fill Pippin’s days. Pippin doesn’t know it but trying to find out who she is and where her father disappeared to is going to put her life on the line.
This book has a lot of intriguing paths to follow and is a joy to read. The introduction of a magic such as bibliomancy makes it a unique story line. Seeing a bit of the family history in this story is also a wonderful way to learn about the characters. I recommend this book if you enjoy mystery and magic. I look forward to more books coming out in this series and the development of the characters as we learn more about them.

[Carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder in Devil’s Cove is the first book in Melissa Bourbon’s Book Magic Mystery series. The book is set in Devil’s Cove on North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Pippin and Grey Hawthorne have moved back after inheriting their childhood home. While renovating the home into a B&B, Pippin starts to wonder about their parents who they didn’t really know. Their mother’s family has been cursed for generations; mothers die in childbirth and fathers don’t return from the sea. Their mother did die in childbirth but their father disappeared, supposedly abandoning their children. The mystery of their father’s disappearance is solved early but leads to other questions as others in the town seem to be searching for something in the house. While the story goes in several directions, they all work together.

This is one of the best books I have read in awhile. The story moves along at a good pace and the characters are very interesting. Pippin enlists the help of two bookstore owners, and the town librarian, who all add a lot to the story. The book has a lot to offer; a picturesque setting, likeable, well-developed characters, a centuries-old curse and even a secret room. I would definitely read more in the series, and other books by this author.

I received a free copy of this book for my review.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I took a couple days to ruminate on this book before I reviewed it because I just so enjoyed being in Devil's Cove with Pippin and Grey. My family is now reading The Hobbit because of this book!
The relationships in this book feel real. Some new ones feel tenuous easily misunderstood. Some new ones feel like they have always been. Not only do I enjoy the characters, but also the relationships. Hattie might just be my favorite character, but I have to go back and visit them all again.
I can believe this is a little island where they all know each other. The setting feels just perfect to hold these characters. The past feels very close and so many people know it just like they do in small towns. People are interested in the work Pippin and Grey are doing. They are interested in helping Pippin and Grey know their parents. It feels like a real small town.
And there is a murder and murderer, so not everyone is so nice and helpful. I suspected someone else, but the last clue made sense to be the last clue. The reason Pippin cares so much makes sense. So the mystery part is great too. I can't wait to read the next one in the series.

[oohlalabooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone in the Lane family dies young and the women has the gift of bibliomancy. Cassie Lane doesn’t see it as a gift, but a curse! Bibliomancy tells a story before the deaths happen. Hoping to escape her fate, she moves from Oregon to NC where she meets and falls in love with Leo Hawthorne. Having lost their parents and raised by their grandma, twins Grey & Pippin have returned to their parent’s home. They will renovate & turn it into a B&B. Upon doing so they find their father’s body! There’s a lot of mystery and secrets to uncover, it’s quite suspenseful and entertaining!
Thank you so much to author Melissa Bourbon for a gifted copy!

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in the Book Magic series. The series will alternate between Melissa Bourbon and Wendy Lyn Watson. The first book introduces us to Pippin and Grey Hawthorne who have returned to their childhood home in Devil's Cove, NC (part of the Outer Banks) after being away for 20 years. Since I live in NC I am bit partial to books set in NC and this one did not disappoint. The accurate descriptions make it hard not to jump in the car and head to the beach!

The author does a great job of intertwining two murders that are 20 years apart. I was guessing until the end, lots of clues were dropped to make you think a few different people could be the murderer! The other wonderful thing about this book is the seamless mix of mystery, intrigue, magic and book lore. Book lovers and magic folk alike will enjoy this cozy mystery.

The second and third books are already on preorder!

[Melissa Lowrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder in Devil’s Cove is the first of A Book Magic Mystery series. As a native North Carolinian, I was thrilled to have the chance to read this book that used the Outer Banks as the backdrop of a tale of mystery and discovery. It introduces (to me at least) the art of bibliomancy. The book is wonderfully well written and the characters are well developed throughout. I loved the bond and relationship between Pippin and Grey…..twins that return to their hometown of Devil’s Cove after the death of their grandmother. They have inherited the house that they lived in when young in the town where their mother died and their father disappeared. What they discover is a web of deceit and murder that they must unravel, while Pippin realizes she has the gift of bibliomancy like her mother did. Family history is woven throughout the story which adds tremendous depth to the book. I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start and finish and look forward to the next in the series.

[Kimberlee · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Murder in Devil's Cove" by Melissa Bourbon is the first book in a new cozy series, the Book Magic series. It served as my introduction to the author as well, and I must say, I was VERY impressed! Everything about this book was spot-on, and there were plenty of little extras to love.

First, the characters are very well thought out and developed. It was fun reading about twins (Pippin and Grey), as well as the various inhabitants of a small beach town. Little extra: the twins were named after Lord of the Rings characters! While we got a fair bit of insight into Pippen in this story, I look forward to future installments to learn more about some of the others, especially Grey.

The plot was intriguing as well. I enjoyed following Pippen's progress as she looked into the twenty-year-old disappearance of her father, as well as a newly-discovered murder (or was it an accident?). I also enjoyed how the twins' family history played into the modern-day storyline. Little extra: we get a few flashes of the past and learn more about Pippen and Grey's parents and their lives.

I enjoyed the touches of magical realism interspersed throughout the story as Pippen begins to discover her gift of bibliomancy. (In case you don't know...this means using books for psychic purposes.) Little extra: a fair bit of the bibliomancy was centered upon "The Odyssey", an ancient classic.

One more extra bit that I particularly enjoyed: a stray dog had been living on the twins' formerly abandoned property, and Pippen takes time out of her schedule to make efforts to befriend her. This adds depth to Pippen's character, and also gives readers the almost-required cozy pet.

All in all, five out of five scoops of slighly-warm Brie!

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pippin and Grey move back to Devil's Cove after 20 years away. They have inherited their old childhood home and decide to renovate it. The also try to discover the truth about their dad's disappearance when they were children. Their father's disappearance forms the central mystery of the book.

Pippin discovers she is a bibliomancer, like her mother before her. I have never heard of bibliomancy and it is really interesting. A way of foretelling the future through the words in a book. This gives the book a slight paranormal edge, but it is mostly a straight mystery. The small town is full of interesting characters and seems like a charming place to live. I would like to spend more time with these characters and hope another book is written featuring Pippin and Grey.

I really love the cover of this book. The artwork and the color palette speak to me.

I received a free review copy of this book from The Cozy Mystery Review Crew.

[Genevieve · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this start of a new series and can't wait to read the next one. The characters are all great especially Pippin who I love as the heroine. Her brother I don't care much for but maybe he will grow on me. I love Jamie and hope there might be love or a romance in Pippin's future. I also loved all the literary quotes at the beginning of each chapter and of course who wouldn't love the poor deaf dog who Pippin is determined to befriend. I loved the story line and kept turning the pages not being able to wait to see what came next. A great book.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a story from a first for me from this talented writer. The Lane women have a difficult prophecy of death and more. I was so caught up with the story, I never noticed I finished the entire book.

[Gwen Romack · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read! I was hooked from the first page and can’t wait for the next one. Who knew a “cozy mystery” could be so exciting!? Highly recommend.

[JoAnne McMaster (Any Good Book) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wanted to read this book because the blurb sounded interesting, and the protagonist wasn't running away from an ex or a scandal. Instead, I found her running away from life...

Pippin Lane and her brother Grey have returned to the Outer Banks of North Carolina where they spent their younger lives after being raised by their grandparents. They've been deeded a home from their father, and Pippin has decided to turn it into an inn in this tourist town. But then there is a discovery that changes their lives, and turns Pippin's well-ordered world upside-down. Now left with more questions than answers, and having to rely on people she knows little of, Pippin has suddenly found that living a solitary life might not be the best way, especially with others who are willing to help in any way they can.

But the discovery of people who knew her parents and are giving her information that she never thought possible is also giving her the possibility of learning to trust others, and even more important, allowing them into her life. This she will need if she ever wants to find out the truth of her history, since she was never allowed near books while growing up, and now learns that she needs to face her family legacy of being a bibliomancer if she is ever to find her future...

This is the first in a new series and it wasn't what I expected. There is much sadness within, yet without it the story cannot be told. Falling into Pippin's life, I found myself feeling empathy for her situation, and why she's chosen the lifestyle she has, along with her brother choosing his. They face life differently; face situations differently; yet have always been there for each other since they are all there is left of their immediate family.

It would be hard not to be drawn into this story from the beginning, when we are given the background by starting with Pippin's mother Cassie and her story. How her love for a seagoing man gave her a brief happiness and then stole it all from her. (I am not giving anything away as this is all told in the blurb).

Enter their grown twins, Pippin and Grey, to take over their lives where they began them almost thirty years ago, and how by doing so it brings them more pain the need to find the truth. It's a haunting story while drawing you in and hoping that they can find the answers they're looking for. But along the way both make friends, some from their childhood, and Pippin is now finding that maybe this is where she belonged all along.

However, while searching for her past, a murder occurs and in trying to find the killer -- since the sheriff thinks it was just an accident, even though the man's widow doesn't believe it -- Pippin starts to believe that the man's death may tie in with her own father's disappearance all those years ago. But searching for a killer who has managed to remain hidden isn't going to be easy, especially since he's managed to stay hidden and closer to Pippin than she knows...

The rest of the story will have to remain as hidden as Pippin's history, since saying too much would give away the rest of the tale, and I have no wish to do so. Let me just say that this story, filled with sadness, longing, and anger, gives way to new beginnings and answers, and gives Pippin a reason to look forward to the future. Highly recommended.

I was given an advance copy from the author but this in no way influenced my review.

[Alexandria · Rating 4 out of 5]

a cozy mystery

Everything about this book makes me want to curl up and read all afternoon. I loved all of the book references.

This book gives you a taste of Pippin’s adventures. I can’t wait to see what happens next. The book is from Pippin’s point of view. I’m curious to learn more about her twin, Grey.

[Katreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

MURDER IN DEVIL'S COVE by Melissa Bourbon
The First Book Magic Mystery

After twenty years Pippin Hawthorne and her brother, Grey, have returned to Devil's Cove. Spirited away by their grandmother after their mother died and their father apparently walked out of their lives, the siblings have returned to reclaim their childhood home. Abandoned, the property needs a lot of work in order to be transformed into an inn, including removing their father's old boat. When they inspect the craft, however, they find a skeleton the hatch. Perhaps their father didn't walk out on them, after all. Pippin starts to uncover the truth about her family including a curse and her special ability, that of a bibliomancer!

A book with bibliomancers! How exciting for a voracious reader and lover of books like me. So imagine my surprise when I started to read and discovered that Cassie hated books, wouldn't have anything to do with them, and forbade her children to read them! Then I learn Pippin has difficulty reading and isn't a reader. Being a reader from a family of readers, I found it hard to understand their aversion to books. Obviously, they each had their reasons, Cassie the "gift"/curse and Pippin, having reading discouraged as a child, but it's shocking for me.

I found the first Book Magic Mystery to be totally captivating. There's a multipronged mystery and a family curse wrapped in a literary form of divination. More than that, it's a story of acceptance, coming to terms with the past, and being able to develop and adjust. It's about facing fears; fears of abandonment and of not being good enough. It's about growing up and reaching for your dreams.

I love the idea of a family curse and how two generations are looking for a way to understand and end it. The characters are unique and well developed. I absolutely love Hattie Juniper Pickle, a woman as flamboyant as her name! I also respect Pippin. Although not a reader, she is encouraged to become one, despite the difficulty. I also love the sweet pup and Pippin's efforts to make her a part of her family.

Blending a family curse and a hint of the paranormal with an intriguing mystery MURDER IN DEVIL'S COVE is a fantastic start to a new series. The book has piqued my interest and I can't wait to discover more about the Lane family, its curse, and if there is a way to end it!

FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me an e-copy of this book in the hopes I would review it.

[Nerdybibliophilee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has been a thrilling weekend. I wanted to get into that zone where my normal life gets that thrilling vibe. I have bought you guys a new thriller called "Murder in Devil's Cove". Starting with the title of the book. It's a very basic and easy to grab. It's a perfect one liner that tells about the storyline thus is a relevant one. Cover on the other hand is very attractive. The outer appearance of the book is very catchy. So for the cover and the title I would like to give it a 2/2.
Before talking about the plot of the book I would like to ask you all a question? What if you get to know about the death even before its occured? Would you see it as a gift of curse?
Now, the plot of the book is very intriguing. The story revolves around the Lane family. Where the females of lane family do not live long and men are lost to the sea. Don't worry the story doesn't start this way. Teh story is basically written in such a way where Pippin Lane and her brother Grey come back to the place where they were raised. They have a life but then as the pages turn there are certain things they discover. Just as normal people would do they tried looking into the past. Now I would like to mention that the starting of the story being a slow one and personally I was a little confused and lost when it started but then as the story proceeded further it became crystal clear. The book literally hooked me up when the past of lane family was discovered. I remember that point where I wad biting my bails because the story had that crazy vibe. I loved the experience that book gave me. The best part is that blend of Past, Present and Future. I loved it all. I would definitely recommend it to all the readers who are looking for an amazing storyline. I would like to thank the author for giving me such an experience through the book. This was an unforgettable experience and I am going to read more from the author. So for the storyline I would give it a 2/2.
Talking about the words and the language used in the book in terms of difficulty, I personally didn't face any difficulty while reading the book, The words used are pretty basic and understandable. So what are you guys waiting for go grab your copy fast.
Also do let me know how you like the book