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Magic Inn Paranormal Mysteries #1

Witches in the Kitchen

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A magical inn bursting with paranormal delight. A picture-perfect seaside town filled with humans who don’t know about their witchy neighbors. This cozy fantasy series has mystery, magic, and a splash of romance!

Up until a week ago, my only knowledge of magic came from the movies. Unfortunately, it didn’t stay that way.

A bout of insomnia leads to witnessing a scene that belongs in a vampire flick—only, the fangs looked way more realistic. One second, I was running for my life, and the next, I found myself choking on a hairball in the back of an SUV.

That’s right … a hairball. See, my body's been hiding a pretty big secret, and I’m some kind of witch. One that turns into a cat when under duress.

Apparently, my choices are fight, flight, or … fur.

Overnight, I find myself thrust into a world of magic and mayhem beyond my most wild sleep-deprived delirium. Until the murderous vampire is captured, I’m placed into some kind of witch-ness protection program, and sent to live in a house full of actual monsters.

What’s the worst that could happen?

Hey, at least running for my life will help me squeeze in my cardio.

***

Witches in the Kitchen is the first novel in a new series of paranormal mysteries from Danielle Garrett. Come stay at the Magic Inn where anything is possible—including the stuff from nightmares.

306 pages, Paperback

First published February 23, 2023

655 people are currently reading
804 people want to read

About the author

Danielle Garrett

89 books1,393 followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 217 reviews
Profile Image for Regina the Constant Reader.
396 reviews
August 6, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ -Audiobook 🎧

I picked this book because I needed a “First in a Series” book for a summer reading challenge I’m doing on Bookstagram.
The story is about Blair. She is having a bout of insomnia so she decides a little air will do her good, that is until she witnesses a scene right out of a vampire movie. She quickly decides she must be imagining things from exhaustion. The next night while walking home she quickly finds out it wasn’t her imagination after all. She comes face to face with the vampire and the next thing she knows she’s….a cat!!
This was such a great read. It had a little bit of everything; humor, mystery, romance, and friendship! I’ll be adding this series to my never ending to-be-read list. :)


860 reviews108 followers
May 11, 2023
Witches in the Kitchen is a book I picked up on a whim for a Book BINGO I'm part of, and I couldn't have made a better choice! This Cozy Mystery had a fun cast of characters and great atmosphere, moving from the inn where the main character was staying to the supernatural 'Haven' world. It was such a fun read, and the blossoming romance is something I'm looking forward to in the books to come. Amanda Ronconi narrated this one, and she did a spectacular job. I am excited to see that she's narrated the author's other books as well, as I plan to go back and read them all.

ARC from Netgalley.
Profile Image for Sophia.
Author 5 books399 followers
August 28, 2023
I feel like I’ve come home with this start to a new series. I began my time with the first of the Beechwood Harbor Ghost Mysteries, went back to the beginning for the original Beechwood Harbor Magic Series, and was tingling with excitement when I learned Danielle Garrett was going to set a new series in the Beechwood Harbor world.

Witches in the Kitchen begins the Magical Inn Mysteries and listeners can jump into the world here with no trouble. That said, long-time fans of the original and subsequent spin-off series will spot familiar faces like the inn’s owners, Holly and Adam, and friends like Harmony who run the herbal shop in the haven where our new heroine is invited to work. I went into this wanting to reconnect with the old characters I adored and did so, but found the reset with a new main character brought new characters to appreciate.

Speaking of the new heroine, I enjoyed being introduced to Blair, and her adventures. Poor Blair discovered the hard way that she’s a witch when a spike of fear had her transforming into a cat. And, that spike of fear was caused by witnessing a scary vampire perpetrating a crime which puts her in the safe custody of the Supernatural Protection Agency who secret her away at the magical inn in Beechwood Harbor where she has to figure out that not all in the supernatural world are bad monsters. Blair has a huge learning curve to overcome since she’s starting out later in life and she now has the inn’s occupants to help her along.

Meanwhile, Blair has stumbled on a mystery which she is able to join in the detecting work and this late in the game she gets a new romance opportunity just as magical as her witchery. She’s fun and I got a few chuckles as usual when it comes to this world and look forward to exploring more in the series with this revitalized cast of characters bringing some new faces and some old together.

Amanda Ronconi has long been the voice of Danielle Garrett’s Paranormal Cozies and this continues with her taking up Blair’s story and a blend of familiar and new casts of characters centered at the inn. I have always loved the way she voices the characters, matches well with the paranormal and mystery elements, and delivers a lively and fun tone for a thoroughly entertaining listening experience.

Witches in the Kitchen was a solid start to a new series and I’m looking forward to what comes next. Paranormal Cozy Mystery fans should magic this one into the listening/reading pile and get in on the first of a new, engaging series.

I rec'd an audio via Tantor Audio to listen to in exchange for an honest review.

My full review will post at Books of My Heart on Aug 23rd.
Profile Image for Maria.
2,988 reviews96 followers
May 10, 2023
I loved Danielle Garrett’s Beechwood Harbor Ghost mysteries so I was excited for another chance to visit Beechwood Harbor. I loved the mention of other characters from the different series in this one and I enjoyed this new series as well. The story was well-paced and Blair is an interesting character as someone who is just learning about her new powers. I can’t wait to see what they get up to next.

I received a copy from #NetGalley and #RBMedia for an honest review.
179 reviews2 followers
February 22, 2023
This is the first book in a new series by Danielle Garrett. The story revolves around Blair who lives in Tacoma. Unfortunately, one night, she is witness to a horrific crime that seemed to be done by a magical creature. She finds it hard to believe what she's seeing until she is stalked and attacked. A unique thing happens to her as a defense mechanism. Luckily, she is saved by an S.P.A. agent. Blair never even knew that there was a Supernatural Protection Agency or that various creatures also inhabited the earth. For her safety, she is moved to the Beachwood Inn in Beachwood Harbor. There, she meets Holly, Adam, and Harmony. Harmony is left in charge of the Seattle Haven Apothecary and invites Blair to go to work with her. Blair seems to be somewhat adjusting to her new life, but danger still lurks. If you've read the original Beechwood Harbor series, you'll recognize some of the characters that you are already familiar with.
If you loved Danielle's other books, I'm sure you'll love this one too.
Profile Image for Kristen.
2,597 reviews88 followers
September 19, 2024
This was nothing special. I wasn't invested enough to keep going to the end.

Blair hit me as kind of whiny and wimpy. I couldn't connect to, or care about her so I also didn't care about her situation.

There was nothing terrible about this story, there just was nothing special about it either. It was meh, and with so many books on my TBR it just doesn't make sense to stick with "meh" books. I'm moving on.
Profile Image for Micky Cox.
2,317 reviews38 followers
May 24, 2023
I love these characters! The way the author wove the paranormal aspect into the main character's life is really fun. I have to confess that I may have laughed out loud while in public and listening to this book, leaving people to think that I'm the crazy one! The narrator really brought the characters and their emotions to life and helped make the mystery even better. I love that the author took a somewhat reclusive character and connected her with a friend base especially since the character is a bit older. I appreciate that the author is saying that it is never too late to find your tribe! This book series will definitely be going on my must listen list! Between the authors skillful crafting of interpersonal relationships wrapped delightfully throughout the mystery and the narrator's ability to bring the characters to life, it's an automatic to be listened too from me! I can't wait to listen to more from these characters!
Profile Image for MissBecka Gee.
2,072 reviews891 followers
May 11, 2023
This was a great start to a new series of cozy paranormal mysteries.
Blair is a good MC with a bunch of well developed side characters.
I do wish there was more sarcasm/banter within the pages, always fun to read.
Maybe in the next one?
The mystery was interesting without overtaking the entire story, and the town is cute with lots of potential for more. Definitely interested in seeing how this series progresses.
Much love to NetGalley & Tantor Audio for my DRC.
Profile Image for Emmalynn.
2,938 reviews29 followers
May 28, 2023
New adventures in Beechwood Manor. A new witch,new adventures, old friends. And let the adventures begin. When a vampire attack triggers her witchy powers, a new witch finds herself stashed at the Beechwood Manor for safety. We meet new agents, and old, new friends and old ( Heyyyy Harmony) life stirs anew at the manor.
Profile Image for Shawn-Joy Martin.
1,020 reviews14 followers
May 5, 2023
OMG I loved this book! It's so light and while there is mystery it wasn't stressful at all. I cannot believe that I have to wait for book 2! I need to set an alarm or something because if I don't continue this series as it releases I'll cry.

Blair has magic only she doesn't know that until she witnesses a horrible crime one night and POOF into a cat she goes. Thankfully there are other magic people who are there to help her. Agent Swan (love interest) and then there are Holly and Adam who run the magical Inn. Everyone is so nice. I just found out this is a spin off series in the same world as several others. Goodbye to my paycheck!

Amanda Ronconi did an amazing job narrating this one! Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Audio for this opportunity.
Profile Image for Zimmy W.
966 reviews15 followers
August 20, 2025
oooh i really liked this one!! it’s definitely way more coming of age and/or discovering a magical world than a mystery but i enjoyed it. (like, did they solve the mystery with the vampire? debatable lmao).
Profile Image for Mike Lewis.
1,761 reviews8 followers
February 25, 2023
Entertaining paranormal cozy mystery series

A spectacularly entertaining paranormal cozy mystery series. Define cast of characters in an entertaining storyline. Once again we are brought back to the Beachwood Harbor inn. Holly bolt and her family have been running the Inn for a number of years now. She has two children and is still running her potion shop and her husband Adam is it running his tech firm along with the N as well. Some of the old gang is still around and now there’s a new character a young woman who lives in Tacoma has something happen that brings her to the attention of this world. Read on and find out what happens to get her where she is and where she’s going. I love the beach with Barbara Series and the world it is in. Do you have this new series based on the old a few years down the road with some of the old characters in plenty of new ones as well is great and I am looking forward to reading many more books in the series.
Profile Image for Kelly.
258 reviews
December 3, 2025
I have a deep appreciation for Danielle Garrett's work, which is why I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Her writing style captivates me; it's warm, engaging, and distinctly charming, making her one of the best authors in the cozy mystery genre. I often find myself revisiting her novels, as they never fail to bring me joy. One of the things I adore most is how her stories unfold within the same magical universe, creating a sense of familiarity and connection among the characters.

In this particular book, I was thrilled to see the main character, Blair, staying with two of my favorites, Holly and Adam. Their dynamic adds a delightful layer to the story as Blair navigates her journey of self-discovery and magical exploration. If you're a fan of cozy mysteries that weave together enchanting narratives and beloved characters, I definitely recommend giving this book a try—actually, any of Danielle Garrett's books are worth picking up!
Profile Image for *ੈ✩‧₊˚Sassy Little Hippy˚₊‧✩ ੈ*.
238 reviews14 followers
April 8, 2024
4.7 ⭐️🎧
I decided to change up the paranormal kick I’ve been on and check out the magical side of things. I like the storyline of this, as the MC is in her 30’s and only newly discovers her “gift” as she accidentally happens upon it. (I keep hoping to find some hidden gifts of my own 😆)

She finds safe harbor at Beechwood Harbor (yes, from the author’s other series!) until she can master her newfound talents, and helps solve some mysteries along the way.

It’s all the things I like in a cozy paranormal mystery - a little crush, mystery, and magic. ✨

This is my second series by this author, and she is consistently easy to follow and makes for a great audio for multi tasking. I look forward to seeing how the MC further unfolds her gifts in the next book.

I enjoyed this in a day, while painting a heart sign for my front door 💖
Profile Image for Ian.
1,431 reviews183 followers
May 24, 2023
Quite a strange book.

I think I've probably read one other book from this author but I could tell immediately that Witches in the Kitchen was what I sometimes call a victory lap or perhaps fan service. It's a book that revisits characters that her devoted followers all know and love.

I don't know them or love them but I somehow found myself pulled in and I really quite enjoyed the book. That said, nothing really happens. It is 100% fan service or a victory lap. I kind of wish more happened and there are a couple of characters on the periphery whose story I wanted to dive into.

A lot of aimless, mindless fun.
Profile Image for Kirsten.
561 reviews2 followers
July 23, 2023
This book had the makings of a really great cozy. However, it just really needed an editor.
Profile Image for Linniegayl.
1,364 reviews32 followers
October 20, 2024
I really enjoyed this first in the author's new paranormal mystery series, featuring Blair, a witch who didn't know she was a witch until she turned into a cat after a vampire attacked her. Oh, and Blair didn't realize there were any kind of magical beings in the world.

Blair is soon rescued by agents from the SPA (a supernatural police force) and taken to an Inn owned by a witch and a shapeshifter. While the inn is in the normal world, there's a portal that takes them into the magical world.

I liked the world set up by the author. It seems this is actually a new series but features characters from an earlier series (including the owners of the magical inn Holly and Adam).

I definitely want to continue with this series, but think I'll take a step back and first read Holly's series.
Profile Image for Miss W Book Reviews.
1,770 reviews154 followers
February 22, 2023
Witches in the Kitchen is the first book in the brand-new Magic Inn Paranormal Mystery series by Danielle Garrett.

We meet Blair who sees a crime that she isn't supposed to, a magical crime. Blair is introduced to the SPA, Supernatural Protection Agency . This is all new to Blair.

I was really excited to see some familiar characters from the author's Beachwood Inn series.

I really enjoyed this book. The world building and mystery was fantastic.

The characters are fantastic and well written.

Can't wait for the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Martha.
867 reviews49 followers
March 30, 2025
Blair is an early 30s girl just going through the motions of a drab job to pay the rent at a drab apartment. She is startled one night to witness a murder from her balcony. Not just a regular murder but what appears to be a vampire attack. A few nights later the vampire chases her down and something almost as scary happens -- she shifts form! Blair escapes with the help of a secret paranormal enforcement agency. She is whisked out of town to the quiet world of Beechwood Harbor.

Blair needs to learn to cope with a new reality but at least there are wonderful, magical people who are willing to help her and protect her until the enemy can be caught. The time isn't all peaceful as stumbles onto a ransacked sales room at Holly's potion shop where she is helping out.

I enjoyed the light and easy tone of this story, which includes a possible chance at romance. I recalled that I enjoyed other stories from the Beechwood Harbor world and now I want to go get more by the author, Danielle Garrett.

Amanda Ronconi does a fine job with the narration. The voices are distinct and the lighter emotion is conveyed. I enjoy listening to the series.

This nice easy listen was a good break from the harder action in the military, dystopian, and LitRPG that I've been reading.
Profile Image for Margery.
877 reviews13 followers
February 23, 2023
An blah life changes when Blair, after a stress filled day and is home, she witnesses something she shouldn't have been able to see. This begins her whirlwind entry to beach haven paranormal life. A talking black cat? Discovering her uncontrolled power makes this one exciting 'coming into power' journey! Love reading about Haven lives
Profile Image for Sarah Sammis.
7,943 reviews247 followers
February 1, 2024
It's only just a mystery. It's mostly an urban fantasy. It's still fun and has a nice Good Witch meets Betwitched vibe. I will definitely keep reading the series but my expectations will be set differently.
Profile Image for Amber Smith.
1,925 reviews46 followers
August 28, 2024
This was such a cute start to a cozy witch mystery. Blair is such a fun humorous character. Finding out you are a shifter by changing into a cat was such a trip! The story was interesting. I will be continuing the series. The narration was fabulous. Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Audio for the audio arc in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Kayla Nelson.
183 reviews11 followers
September 21, 2024
One of those cases where you should not judge a book by its cover because this was adorable and so much fun! Truly the perfect witchy cozy book for fall.
Profile Image for Lily.
55 reviews
May 20, 2025
Loving this series and world! Fun romcom mystery vibes with a Witchy twist. Looking forward to continuing the series.
Profile Image for Kelsey.
268 reviews7 followers
May 30, 2023
4.5/5⭐️

I loved this audiobook! It was a perfect short read. If you love cozy mysteries and paranormal romance this is the perfect combo! I will definitely be reading the next in the series!

Thank you to Netgalley and Tantor Audio for the Audio-ARC!
Profile Image for April   ♥"LOS" ♥.
3,090 reviews60 followers
July 18, 2023
This is a fun new series with some familiar faces. I was so happy to go back to the Beechwood Manor and see Holly, Adam and Boots again. But this series introduces a new character and I’m excited to see where this series takes us.
Profile Image for Jules Poet.
1,117 reviews6 followers
May 31, 2024
Title: Witches in the Kitchen
Written by Danielle Garrett
Narrated by Amanda Ronconi

I received an ARC (advanced reader copy) of this audiobook through Netgalley.

I LOVED this audiobook. I am already a huge fan of Danielle Garrett and Amanda Ronconi!

This book is a part of a new series that picks up where the other Beechwood Manor books left off - woohoo! When the Beechwood Harbor Magic Mysteries series ended… I was bereft.

If you’re new to these books…
Holly is a potions witch with a thriving apothecary inside of the Seattle Haven (think portal dimension or diagon alley or Narnia). Holly, her husband Adam, and their two children run the Beechwood Manor/Inn. Living with them is a floating skull (kind of like Dresden Files Bob), an ex fairy godmother, and Harmony, co-owner of the apothecary.

The manor is located in a “muggle” town called Beechwood Harbor. It’s your typical quaint small town full of charm and good people.

This particular series is told from the point of view of Blair, a 30-something woman living a less than stellar lifestyle with a wholly unfulfilling job to boot.

Blair witnesses a crime and tumbles down the rabbit hole learning about the supernatural world. Blair ends up staying in Beechwood Manor and another mystery unfolds.

I highly recommend this book! And, if you have the time - I highly recommend the other Beechwood books - they are sooooo good!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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