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Moonstone Bay #12
Bewitched and Bothered
Hadley Hunter is taking some downtime with her fiancé Galen Blackwood. All she wants to do is bask in their happiness and pretend nothing bad could possibly happen.
This is Moonstone Bay, however. That’s simply not reality.
When Galen gets a call that an old-timer on the island is holding a gun on the guests at a local bar, Hadley accompanies him to the scene…and watches as the unthinkable happens. The man’s death is strange enough, but when news starts to spread that their victim had been carrying on with a woman who was young enough to be his granddaughter, things take an even odder turn.
It seems there’s an unknown power on the island, and this individual is casting the sort of love spells that force unusual couples to start burning—literally—for one another.
Not only are Hadley and Galen hot on the trail of an outside player, but they’re also targets.
Hadley has learned a lot since finding out she’s a witch. This lesson, however, might be too hot to handle.
The union of earth, air, fire, and water has become symbolic on Moonstone Bay. This time the union will lead to a whole new adventure.
Nothing will ever be the same again.
This is Moonstone Bay, however. That’s simply not reality.
When Galen gets a call that an old-timer on the island is holding a gun on the guests at a local bar, Hadley accompanies him to the scene…and watches as the unthinkable happens. The man’s death is strange enough, but when news starts to spread that their victim had been carrying on with a woman who was young enough to be his granddaughter, things take an even odder turn.
It seems there’s an unknown power on the island, and this individual is casting the sort of love spells that force unusual couples to start burning—literally—for one another.
Not only are Hadley and Galen hot on the trail of an outside player, but they’re also targets.
Hadley has learned a lot since finding out she’s a witch. This lesson, however, might be too hot to handle.
The union of earth, air, fire, and water has become symbolic on Moonstone Bay. This time the union will lead to a whole new adventure.
Nothing will ever be the same again.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2023
1006 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
About the author
Amanda M. Lee
311 books2,916 followersWhen I was a kid, I was torn between whether or not I was going to grow up and be the Incredible Hulk or Wonder Woman. I flirted with being a Jedi Knight for awhile, but I wasn't up for the intense travel associated with the gig. In my teens, I settled on being a writer -- although I had no idea the effort that would entail.
Not only am I a writer now, but I'm a writer in several different mediums. I'm a longtime newspaper reporter, an avid reader and a voracious science fiction fanatic.
Not only am I a writer now, but I'm a writer in several different mediums. I'm a longtime newspaper reporter, an avid reader and a voracious science fiction fanatic.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
July 6, 2023
Overall 3 stars like most of her books. Light-hearted paranormal cozy mysteries with sappy romance.
Lost a star for the frankly abhorrent portrayal and treatment of a recurring side character. I had the same problem with this character in an earlier book in this series. MINOR SPOILER TO FOLLOW: This particular side character uses his magic to force women to sleep with him against their wills. That is R-A-P-E! But the MFC just calls it “disgusting.” The MMC at least acknowledges that it’s a violation, but neither seems to take it sufficiently seriously. After the earlier book, he’s supposed to “work on it,” but there were no real controls put in him. And then in this book they find out he’s still doing it - and they still don’t act to stop him. This is as much rape as drugging a woman and having sex with her, and it’s disappointing that the author treats it as lightly as she does.
Lost a star for the frankly abhorrent portrayal and treatment of a recurring side character. I had the same problem with this character in an earlier book in this series. MINOR SPOILER TO FOLLOW: This particular side character uses his magic to force women to sleep with him against their wills. That is R-A-P-E! But the MFC just calls it “disgusting.” The MMC at least acknowledges that it’s a violation, but neither seems to take it sufficiently seriously. After the earlier book, he’s supposed to “work on it,” but there were no real controls put in him. And then in this book they find out he’s still doing it - and they still don’t act to stop him. This is as much rape as drugging a woman and having sex with her, and it’s disappointing that the author treats it as lightly as she does.
July 10, 2023
Book 12 of 50 ( would love that )
So I have to first disclose I thought a bit into that it seemed like I already knew what the story was going to be, but, boy was I surprised. Just when it seemed so obvious became a great journey and story. Looking forward to see how Hadley's going to do, this was another wonderful book.
So I have to first disclose I thought a bit into that it seemed like I already knew what the story was going to be, but, boy was I surprised. Just when it seemed so obvious became a great journey and story. Looking forward to see how Hadley's going to do, this was another wonderful book.
July 20, 2023
I love this author. I have read every book under this pen name. I don't know how she does it but each book is better than the previous ones. I love the female leads are all sarcastic and the male leads love them without reservation.
July 4, 2023
Moonstone bay madness
This is one of my favourite series, love the kooky residents of Moonstone Bay , there’s always something happening.
Hadley, Galen and their friends are always able to work their magic to defeat whatever paranormal event is thrown at them.
Love the humour Amanda always peppers her stories with and this is another book that had me giggling. The way our characters relationships moves on over time is a joy to read.
Another feel good story tempered with a mystery for 6h4 gang to solve.
This is one of my favourite series, love the kooky residents of Moonstone Bay , there’s always something happening.
Hadley, Galen and their friends are always able to work their magic to defeat whatever paranormal event is thrown at them.
Love the humour Amanda always peppers her stories with and this is another book that had me giggling. The way our characters relationships moves on over time is a joy to read.
Another feel good story tempered with a mystery for 6h4 gang to solve.
February 9, 2024
Of all the series, which intersect, this series has the worst narrator. Just screechy and annoying. I almost don't want to listen. if the multiple series didn't intersect with each other, I would probably skip this one.
July 4, 2023
Amanda m lee
There are so many of her books series that I read. Moon stone Bay cozy mysteries is just one I consider her one of my all time favorites. I love the snark, the family of friends, and the magic. I always feel good after reading her books. I like in this series that the hero is not just one, but a team. Although you will find that in all her series. And once you've read me you become hooked. I preorder all my favorite series, that's how much I love them
There are so many of her books series that I read. Moon stone Bay cozy mysteries is just one I consider her one of my all time favorites. I love the snark, the family of friends, and the magic. I always feel good after reading her books. I like in this series that the hero is not just one, but a team. Although you will find that in all her series. And once you've read me you become hooked. I preorder all my favorite series, that's how much I love them
July 12, 2023
entertaining paranormal cozy mystery series
This is an entertaining paranormal cozy mystery series. Spectacular cast of characters in an entertaining storyline. A small tropical island somewhere off the southern United States. It’s a paranormal stronghold for the most part although there are humans that visit. The residence for the most part are all paranormal‘s of one sort or another. Hadley owns the lighthouse on the beach which belong to her grandmother before she passed away and left it to her. She’s growing into a very powerful witch. The sheriff is a shifter his best friend the local handyman/loan taxi/bus driver on the island is a Cupid his girlfriend is half demon who owns a bar One of their other friends Aurora is a siren and her boyfriend is a shark shifter. They’ve grown very close and consider each other family for the most part. Since Hadley has arrived they have saved the day a number of occasions and even eventually got rid of the corrupt government on the island and are in the planning stages of replacing the government with a government that will actually represent the people rather than rule the people. Read on as there is a new adventure in this book and once again they must save the day if they can. Read on and see if they can succeed or if their efforts will fail.
This is an entertaining paranormal cozy mystery series. Spectacular cast of characters in an entertaining storyline. A small tropical island somewhere off the southern United States. It’s a paranormal stronghold for the most part although there are humans that visit. The residence for the most part are all paranormal‘s of one sort or another. Hadley owns the lighthouse on the beach which belong to her grandmother before she passed away and left it to her. She’s growing into a very powerful witch. The sheriff is a shifter his best friend the local handyman/loan taxi/bus driver on the island is a Cupid his girlfriend is half demon who owns a bar One of their other friends Aurora is a siren and her boyfriend is a shark shifter. They’ve grown very close and consider each other family for the most part. Since Hadley has arrived they have saved the day a number of occasions and even eventually got rid of the corrupt government on the island and are in the planning stages of replacing the government with a government that will actually represent the people rather than rule the people. Read on as there is a new adventure in this book and once again they must save the day if they can. Read on and see if they can succeed or if their efforts will fail.
July 19, 2023
This is going to be interesting what happens in the next book! Now that Hadley has agreed to taking on a very important task, everything for Moonstone Bay will change… for the better, I’m certain.
Something is happening to the residents on the island and something is coupling odd couples, in particular - one such pairing is an old English teacher and a student… in high school! But hey! He IS 18, so it’s no so weird, is it? The two are hot for each other. So hot they are practically melting out their pores. Luckily, Hadley has discovered a way to remedy the situation before the pair cook from the inside out.
Hadley and her fiancé the Sheriff Galen are on the case. After they themselves fall victim to the internal barbecue, they’re more determined than ever to catch the culprit. However, they will need the assistance of their friends Booker the Cupid, Lily the demon, and Aurora the siren to overtake the one who is trying to act as chef of human cookouts.
I didn’t find a mention of the next Moonstone Bay book, so I’m going to read: Sprinkled (A Lacey Luzzi Mystery) by Gina LaManna. I like a cutesy Mafia book and hopefully LaManna will deliver!
A question I’ve had for awhile is, is Amanda M Lee the same person as Lily Harper Hart? Their books are so similar as far as their heroines and how they’re so sexual and snarky.
Something is happening to the residents on the island and something is coupling odd couples, in particular - one such pairing is an old English teacher and a student… in high school! But hey! He IS 18, so it’s no so weird, is it? The two are hot for each other. So hot they are practically melting out their pores. Luckily, Hadley has discovered a way to remedy the situation before the pair cook from the inside out.
Hadley and her fiancé the Sheriff Galen are on the case. After they themselves fall victim to the internal barbecue, they’re more determined than ever to catch the culprit. However, they will need the assistance of their friends Booker the Cupid, Lily the demon, and Aurora the siren to overtake the one who is trying to act as chef of human cookouts.
I didn’t find a mention of the next Moonstone Bay book, so I’m going to read: Sprinkled (A Lacey Luzzi Mystery) by Gina LaManna. I like a cutesy Mafia book and hopefully LaManna will deliver!
A question I’ve had for awhile is, is Amanda M Lee the same person as Lily Harper Hart? Their books are so similar as far as their heroines and how they’re so sexual and snarky.
July 14, 2023
Predictable
The books are a light read. I found them to be entertaining, but the plots were predictable and the characters never grew. Hadley was annoying, always the busy body, made the same mistakes over and over. You will recognize all the characters from the Wicked Witches of the Midwest here - same characters with different names. You have your food fetishes (including festival food, ice cream and elephant ears). You have the boyfriend who can't keep his hand to himself. You have the over-the-top bantering with sexual innuendo. You have couple tubbies. The characters are the same: grandfather Wesley/ Chief Terry, Galen/Landon, the two cousins/Booker and Lilac. Not very original.
The books are a light read. I found them to be entertaining, but the plots were predictable and the characters never grew. Hadley was annoying, always the busy body, made the same mistakes over and over. You will recognize all the characters from the Wicked Witches of the Midwest here - same characters with different names. You have your food fetishes (including festival food, ice cream and elephant ears). You have the boyfriend who can't keep his hand to himself. You have the over-the-top bantering with sexual innuendo. You have couple tubbies. The characters are the same: grandfather Wesley/ Chief Terry, Galen/Landon, the two cousins/Booker and Lilac. Not very original.
July 10, 2023
Another solid entry in the series. I do have one issue. I don't love the path that's been taken with peripheral character of Drew and the exploration of his powers.
SPOILER ALERT:
It was mentioned in a previous book that Drew has used his powers to coerce women into sleeping with him. I'm sorry- that is rape. No ifs ands or butts. No explanations, no hedging. That's rape You forced someone to give consent. He's at it again. Why is nobody kicking his ass or putting him in jail?! Sure they keep saying that's gross and we need to do something about him and yet nobody ever does anything about him. Really disappointed at the way he's being handled.
SPOILER ALERT:
It was mentioned in a previous book that Drew has used his powers to coerce women into sleeping with him. I'm sorry- that is rape. No ifs ands or butts. No explanations, no hedging. That's rape You forced someone to give consent. He's at it again. Why is nobody kicking his ass or putting him in jail?! Sure they keep saying that's gross and we need to do something about him and yet nobody ever does anything about him. Really disappointed at the way he's being handled.
July 12, 2023
So fun
This book was great. I love the whole gang. In each book, we learn something else about Moonbay and its residents. There is no shortage of adventures.
Hadley has grown so much. She fits in so well with the town people. That is why when everyone thinks they have the perfect job for her. I agreed. I have a few questions that I can't wait to get the answers to. This next book is going to be a pivotal moment for Hadley.
This book was great. I love the whole gang. In each book, we learn something else about Moonbay and its residents. There is no shortage of adventures.
Hadley has grown so much. She fits in so well with the town people. That is why when everyone thinks they have the perfect job for her. I agreed. I have a few questions that I can't wait to get the answers to. This next book is going to be a pivotal moment for Hadley.
July 19, 2023
Great read
I've enjoyed reading the series watching Hadley and Galen come to terms with their relationship. The book weaves the intricate problems of life but the endings are always satisfying. The mystery elements are quirky but always follow a logical line. I've usually been amazed at the end of the books' solutions. I don't do spoilers I just tell you to read the book for a pleasant interlude.
I've enjoyed reading the series watching Hadley and Galen come to terms with their relationship. The book weaves the intricate problems of life but the endings are always satisfying. The mystery elements are quirky but always follow a logical line. I've usually been amazed at the end of the books' solutions. I don't do spoilers I just tell you to read the book for a pleasant interlude.
August 5, 2025
Good series
For me this is a good series for cheering me up when life is giving me problems. The story was entertaining and it is always nice to see the killer get what they deserve.
This one had me guessing who was the killer, both opinions were good and I enjoyed how they were discovered.
I have read the other series by AMLee and her other name.
Thank you for the many interesting characters and stories.
For me this is a good series for cheering me up when life is giving me problems. The story was entertaining and it is always nice to see the killer get what they deserve.
This one had me guessing who was the killer, both opinions were good and I enjoyed how they were discovered.
I have read the other series by AMLee and her other name.
Thank you for the many interesting characters and stories.
July 5, 2023
Love the series!
A fun series that should be read in order. The characters continue to grow and change as the storyline progresses. Their interaction is fun and the humor is a bonus. The plot and subplots move quickly, making it hard to put the book down. I can't wait for the next book!
A fun series that should be read in order. The characters continue to grow and change as the storyline progresses. Their interaction is fun and the humor is a bonus. The plot and subplots move quickly, making it hard to put the book down. I can't wait for the next book!
July 5, 2023
4 stars
As usual , Ms Lee's sense of humor sparkles in this most recent book of Moonshine Bay series. Cupids, witches, mermaids and shape shifters make for a lively story and this book didn't disappoint. If you enjoy a wicked sense of humor and witches and goblins then give this series a try.
As usual , Ms Lee's sense of humor sparkles in this most recent book of Moonshine Bay series. Cupids, witches, mermaids and shape shifters make for a lively story and this book didn't disappoint. If you enjoy a wicked sense of humor and witches and goblins then give this series a try.
July 6, 2023
great series
I have really enjoyed reading this series. The characters are always entertaining as is the story. My only problem, which really isn’t a problem, is that I get so interested in the book that I can’t put it down and end up finishing it quickly! Amanda M. Lee/Lily Harper Hart’s books are always entertaining and this series is one of my favorites!
I have really enjoyed reading this series. The characters are always entertaining as is the story. My only problem, which really isn’t a problem, is that I get so interested in the book that I can’t put it down and end up finishing it quickly! Amanda M. Lee/Lily Harper Hart’s books are always entertaining and this series is one of my favorites!
July 6, 2023
Good read
Book 12 on Moon stone Bay has the regular quirky characters, humor, loads of angst, sexual innuendos, magic, shifters, a vampire funeral director, a hunky shifter sheriff, a sassy, wacky witch, and their paranormal best friends. Then add a lusty villain to the mix and the fight is on. Highly entertaining.
Book 12 on Moon stone Bay has the regular quirky characters, humor, loads of angst, sexual innuendos, magic, shifters, a vampire funeral director, a hunky shifter sheriff, a sassy, wacky witch, and their paranormal best friends. Then add a lusty villain to the mix and the fight is on. Highly entertaining.
July 6, 2023
LONG IN THE TOOTH BUT GOOD (a few !spoilers, sorry)
Slow to get to the point but eventually a wonderful story. Of course Galen and Hadley are engaged enjoying a two week honeymoon of bliss, then people start to die. Odd couplings, with another attempt to kill the lovely couple and as many twist and turns as a mountain pass. All in all an exciting read eventually.
Slow to get to the point but eventually a wonderful story. Of course Galen and Hadley are engaged enjoying a two week honeymoon of bliss, then people start to die. Odd couplings, with another attempt to kill the lovely couple and as many twist and turns as a mountain pass. All in all an exciting read eventually.
July 9, 2023
Cupids
I thought choice were all love and shooting you with love arrows. Not sending people to hook up with the wring person and then making them explode from the inside. The island is trying to reinvent themselves wth a new government. Is Hadley up to the task of being the intern Mayor? What about the adding plans? Hope to find out in the next book💙💚
I thought choice were all love and shooting you with love arrows. Not sending people to hook up with the wring person and then making them explode from the inside. The island is trying to reinvent themselves wth a new government. Is Hadley up to the task of being the intern Mayor? What about the adding plans? Hope to find out in the next book💙💚
July 26, 2023
Great series addition
Twelve books in and they keep getting better. Characters are evolving and adventures are always interesting. Looking forward to what's on store for Hadley and crew.
Told from h POV. No cliffhanger. Each book can be standalone but much better if read on order.
Twelve books in and they keep getting better. Characters are evolving and adventures are always interesting. Looking forward to what's on store for Hadley and crew.
Told from h POV. No cliffhanger. Each book can be standalone but much better if read on order.
July 27, 2023
Ok
The storyline was good, I loved seeing the gang working together. Missed seeing May and would have liked to see more of Aurora and Brody. Out of all the female leads Hadley is my least favorite, whiny, always thinking she is right, putting her needs ahead of others and then having all these doubts. I was hoping she would grow up.
The storyline was good, I loved seeing the gang working together. Missed seeing May and would have liked to see more of Aurora and Brody. Out of all the female leads Hadley is my least favorite, whiny, always thinking she is right, putting her needs ahead of others and then having all these doubts. I was hoping she would grow up.
August 22, 2023
Love vs Lust
As always, very entertaining. Galen and Hadley are taking a break after dealing with the downfall of the DDA. Interrupting their R and R is a disturbance at a local bar. The incident is so unusual that no one knows what really happened. It takes a near death experience for them to start on the right path.
As always, very entertaining. Galen and Hadley are taking a break after dealing with the downfall of the DDA. Interrupting their R and R is a disturbance at a local bar. The incident is so unusual that no one knows what really happened. It takes a near death experience for them to start on the right path.
August 30, 2023
Supernatural mystery
Galen and Hadley have taken a break to celebrate their engagement but a hostage situation at a bar requires their attention. A couple of very strange deaths have them researching the past and coming together as a team to deal with the threat. There is some discussion about wedding plans and the steps the island needs to take to replace the DDA.
Galen and Hadley have taken a break to celebrate their engagement but a hostage situation at a bar requires their attention. A couple of very strange deaths have them researching the past and coming together as a team to deal with the threat. There is some discussion about wedding plans and the steps the island needs to take to replace the DDA.
January 24, 2024
another anticlimactic ending
I don’t know, it’s like they’ve become too powerful. All they have to do to get rid of. Someone is to just touch them. It kind of takes a little bit of the excitement out of the climax of the story. But things are changing on the island, and our team is part of that change.
I don’t know, it’s like they’ve become too powerful. All they have to do to get rid of. Someone is to just touch them. It kind of takes a little bit of the excitement out of the climax of the story. But things are changing on the island, and our team is part of that change.
July 8, 2023
Absolutely delightful
I have really enjoyed seeing Hadley & Galen grow not only as a couple but individually. I can’t wait for the next book. I’m excited for Hadley to grow into an amazing force with her family by her side. Another great read Ms. Lee. Thank you for your stories.
I have really enjoyed seeing Hadley & Galen grow not only as a couple but individually. I can’t wait for the next book. I’m excited for Hadley to grow into an amazing force with her family by her side. Another great read Ms. Lee. Thank you for your stories.
July 8, 2023
Excellent
This series is a fun read with a paranormal cozy mystery that was a bit difficult figuring out who the bad guy was. Even narrowed down to two people it still was difficult which I loved. I love the main characters and their "family". Awesome and fun read!
This series is a fun read with a paranormal cozy mystery that was a bit difficult figuring out who the bad guy was. Even narrowed down to two people it still was difficult which I loved. I love the main characters and their "family". Awesome and fun read!
July 8, 2023
Great story
This series never disappoints. It will have you laughing out loud and smiling. I love the dynamics of the core group of characters. I can’t wait to see Hadley as the mayor and Galen as sheriff they are going to be an unstoppable duo. Loved it
This series never disappoints. It will have you laughing out loud and smiling. I love the dynamics of the core group of characters. I can’t wait to see Hadley as the mayor and Galen as sheriff they are going to be an unstoppable duo. Loved it
July 10, 2023
Loved this one! This is just one of the adventures these characters find themselves involved. I can’t wait to see what else fate has in store on the Island. I highly recommend this series and others from this Author, she is one of my favorites!
July 10, 2023
Hadley for mayor!
Another great read from Amanda m Lee! I don't know where she finds the inspiration fir such good stories but long may it continue! I can hardly wait for the next installment!
Another great read from Amanda m Lee! I don't know where she finds the inspiration fir such good stories but long may it continue! I can hardly wait for the next installment!
July 12, 2023
Great story!!
I love this book and I love Ms. Lee’s sense of humor!! Her stories flow easily and keep you entertained. I never felt like there was a lull in the story or a lot of unnecessary filler. She is a very gifted and creative author. You won't be sorry to buy this book.
I love this book and I love Ms. Lee’s sense of humor!! Her stories flow easily and keep you entertained. I never felt like there was a lull in the story or a lot of unnecessary filler. She is a very gifted and creative author. You won't be sorry to buy this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews