Open for Witchness

Haunted Haven #3

by Ada Bell

Enjoy this charming third installment of the Haunted Haven series by award-winning author Ada Bell.
With two solved murders under her belt, Emma agrees to tackle a mystery that's been haunting the residents of neighboring Shady Grove for what supernatural presence keeps the only bar in town from operating? Emma's been in haunted places before, and no one else ever noticed. The ghosts she's encountered may not have all been warm and fuzzy, bu they were peaceful. Intrigued, she and her friend Ben head to the bar he hopes to take over. The last thing she expects is to find a ghostly sentry at the door, preventing anyone from going in. Since ghosts don't wear clothes, Emma's thread magic is of little use. Still, she made a promise, so she'll do her best to find out who died and how to bring them peace.
Her inquiries reveal a murder in the bar twenty years ago. The only way to help Ben fulfill his dream of owning his own bar is to solve the mystery-but the trail has been cold for decades. Can she close the case to help Ben reopen the bar before the spirits close her down for good?
Open for Witchness is a paranormal cozy mystery set in a small town, with ghosts, witches, and a talking cat. Oh my! Fans of Angie Fox, Amy Boyles, and Annabel Chase will love this bewitching series.
This text refers to the large print edition.

380 pages, Paperback

Published September 1, 2023

About the author

Ada Bell knew you'd be reading this. Okay, well, she knew someone would be. (Hi, Mom!) That's pretty much the extent of her psychic powers. A life-long mystery buff, Ada has devoured everything from Murder, She Wrote to Nancy Drew to Psych!, so she was pretty much destined to end up here. Ada loves Scooby Doo, superhero movies, STEM heroines, and cake. Mmm, cake.

Reviews

[Lola · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.

Open for Witchness is the third book in the haunted Haven series and follows witch Emma who can see ghosts. In this book she's helping her friend Ben to investigate if the property he wants to buy is indeed haunted. It quickly turns out something strange is going on in the property and Emma gets involved figuring things out.

For some reason the plot of this one didn't fully grip me. It didn't keep my attention and I just wasn't as invested in what was going on. The progress was slow at times and I just had trouble staying interested in the plot. I did really like the wrap up, that was done really well and there were some really good twists and reveals. It all made sense too and I liked that part of the book.

I like reading about Emma as well as her friends. I also like how her magic is an important part of the story and helps her with the mysteries. I am not really feeling the romance in this one, but I do like how Emma interacts with her friends and those staying at her B&B.

To summarize: I like this series, but this book didn't hook me as much as the earlier ones. The plot in this one wasn't as engaging and felt a bit slow to progress. I did really like the wrap up and there were some good twists and reveals when everything falls on it's place. I like reading about Emma and how her witchy powers are part of the story.

[Nyxie · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
꧁OPEN FOR WITCHNESS by ADA BELL꧂
Open for Witchness is book 3 of a paranormal cozy mystery set in a small town, with ghosts, witches, and a talking cat 🐈‍⬛ Oh my! Fans of Angie Fox, Amy Boyles, and Annabel Chase will love this bewitching series.

I really love this series of books!
They're so fun to read.
The characters are likable, sweet, and fun.

As with the other 2 books in this series, Open for Witchness was a cozy quick read.
Getting to see more of Walter, Josie, Ben, T, Pink & Tim was like coming home after a long week!
The plot twist at the end of this story was unexpected. I honestly had no idea who the
villain was until the chapter it
was revealed.

I definitely
recommend this book (and the rest of the series! )

Thank you to BookSirens, I received an advance review
copy for free, and I am leaving
this review voluntarily.

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emma Foden inherited not only her grandfather’s magic , she has thread magic meaning she can manipulate threads to do her bidding, pots of money and the bed and breakfast( that she is obligated to help others) but she sees ghosts and a cat familiar named Pink is her mentor. Her friend Ben Cartwright wants to run his own bar. The trouble is the rundown place he has his scope set on a place in Shady Grove , and in it resides a not so friendly ghost….Having changed hands over a couple of decades it never opened for business.Since Emma moved to Willow Falls there’s been gossip about her the main being she talks to people who are not there..Ben witnessed this first hand and then there’s detective Tim who is aware of her unique powers. Ben implores her to eradicate whatever is lurking if anything at the bar. With her ghostly grandfather along for the ride her and Ben take to journey to the Shady Grove bar. But on walking to the entry of the front door she feels the building rage against her? Deeming it wise to capture the next step on camera out snapped her phone. Was that a cat?Emma is hit by a flash that felt like a physical force that sent her flying ( and not in a witch on a broom way) . She awoke with wires attached to her…. This is where the sleuth in her kicks in and the story gets interesting and she hooks up ( not that way..) with Tim again to explore. She doesn’t believe it is just a ghost that is preventing the Bar from opening and is determined to get some answers even at a cost of her own life…Brilliantly executed by this prolific author , her writing is so fluent and the characters quirky and fun , great plots , super descriptions that immerse the reader into the story. I read a free copy of the book and I’m voluntary leaving my review in my own words.

[Andrea Stoeckel · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Detective, nothing you tell me is going to be more unbelievable than the things I see every day.”

What a life! Inherit your grandfather's estate, discover you're a thread witch, revamp the estate into a special kind of B+B and solve mysteries... specifically mysteries around and with ghosts. Oookay.

This time Ben, the stepson of the now ghost from the second book in this series, is trying to reopen a long deserted bar in Shady Grove and knowing Emma Faden, has asked for her help in figuring out why it has been deserted for so long

Ben and Emma along with her familiar Pink are knee deep into it before they know literally what hit them and slowly unravel the "legally haunted bar" mystery as carefully as possible.

Obviously there's a ghost but is that ghost the culprit? What about the other residents? As Emma and Ben ( and Punk and Walter) find out that things long forgotten might not actually have been as they seem.

I love this series! Fast, fun and you can even learn a thing or two along the way. Keep them coming please. Highly Recommended 5/5

[ Disclaimer: I received this book from BookSirens and voluntarily read and reviewed it]

[Gee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the idea that someone can inherit magic, and this is how Emma came into her powers. When she solved her late grandfather, Walters’ treasure hunt, there were quite a few changes to her life, such as she could see ghosts, inherited a talking cat called Pink and became a Thread witch.

A nice gentle read, a cozy Murder myster and spells, what more could you want. There is a nice gentle humour that runs through the story, as well as a good plot. This, the 3rd book in the series, has more involvement from Walter and Pink, which is lovely, and also we see Tim again, the police detective who is open to the fact that there are ghosts and magic. I like that Emma is still finding her way with her magic, spells don’t always go right, but this doesn’t stop her from trying. Looking forward to see where Emma and her friends go next.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Katherine Azad · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really love these books. They are so fun to read. The characters are super likable, if not completely believable. But in a cozy mystery about witch sleuths, realism is not exactly the goal. They are fun and sweet and what you would rather people be like, more than what they are.

Similarly to the rest of the series, the story was interesting. This was actually my favorite of all of them that I’ve read. The plot twist at the end was unexpected in this book. I had no idea who the villain was until the chapter it was revealed.

All in all, this as a wonderful light read for when you want to relax and immerse yourself in the story. I would absolutely recommend this book (and series) and am looking forward to going back and reading the sister series to get a little more!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

With two solved murders under her belt, Emma agrees to tackle a mystery that’s been haunting the residents of neighboring Shady Grove for years: what supernatural presence keeps the only bar in town from operating?
Emma's been in haunted places before, and no one else ever noticed. The ghosts she's encountered may not have all been warm and fuzzy, bu they were peaceful. Intrigued, she and her friend Ben head to the bar he hopes to take over. The last thing she expects is to find a ghostly sentry at the door, preventing anyone from going in. Since ghosts don't wear clothes, Emma's thread magic is of little use. Still, she made a promise, so she'll do her best to find out who died and how to bring them peace. This is a paranormal activity book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

This para cozey mystery is a delightful mix of laughter and intrigue and so well written with an array of vibrant, colorful and quirky characters that will draw you into their small town with you wanting to get to know them better while enticing you further with the intrigue of ghostly spirits ,is it true that the town bar is haunted or cursed. Some think so. Once I began reading this fabulous para cozey I couldn't put it down between a friendly spirit and eclectic group of neighbors its one exciting event after another keeping you entranced turning page after page until you've reached its unexpected and climatic conclusion. Acquire " Open for Witchness" for hours of intriguing, mystical and enjoyable entertainment. Kat

[Fraxinus · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed watching Emma come into her power and take confidence in her abilities. But, in this book, everything that Emma has learned about the paranormal world is turned on its head when she tries to help her friend fulfill his dream of opening a very haunted bar in the neighboring town.

Can Emma open the bar without hiring a priest?

I adored this story. I AM a sucker for a snarky familiar and it is obvious that the author has worshipped at the altar of the kitty underlords at some point. Pink was hilarious and heartwarming and I would not want to be on the wrong side of his litterbox.

I can't wait to see where the author takes us next.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Derek · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in the series and doesn’t disappoint. Emma’s friend Ben wants to re-open a bar in Shady Grove which is said to be haunted but when Emma goes to investigate she is unable to gain access to the property that seems to be protected by a ghost sentry but she is determined to find out who died at the property. Pink the cat, although stubborn reveals more of his powers to help Emma out. Detective Tim who seems to really like Emma (and knows a little about her powers) is also investigating the scene.
This book is well written and keeps you guessing until the end to reveal who is responsible.

[Penny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished this book, and I am so hoping there will be more in this world. I think this is the best book in the series, and I am just so in love with Emma, Tim, Walter, and Pink. In this one, their friend Ben wants to open a bar, but the property is haunted, and he needs Emma to find out what’s going on. On the way, Emma finds out more about her powers, Pink’s powers, and herself. The mystery is an interesting one, and I didn’t quite figure it out. I am totally in love with this series, and I hope that there will be more. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.

[M Franczieska · Rating 5 out of 5]

Open for Witchiness—I lost track of time!

Heroine Emma agrees to help a guest at her B &B mansion check out a haunted bar he’s interested in buying. The trouble is the bar really is haunted—by a violent and vengeful spirit. But Emma possesses unusual powers. Accompanied by her grandfather’s ghost and aided by her cat, she manages to sort things out—it’s not her first foray into mystery-solving—uncovering a murder and narrowly preventing her own.

This is the third book featuring Emma and the inhabitants of Shady Grove, and after discovering them in book one, I bought and raced through books two and three. And I really hope there are lots more.

[Kasey Fallon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun, easy read to bring in spooky season! The pace is consistent in the series, the town and its characters are very cute, and I'd love to visit this place! At the same time, the author introduces us to new characters as if they've always been there, and makes references that don't quite connect (perhaps from another series? This reader's just not sure).

The plot is solid, the storyline is fun, and at the end of the day I still enjoy our FMC Emma. Favorite character: GhostCat.

I'm happy to be an ARC reader and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ulrika Gustafsson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an entertaining read where the ending is open until the very end.

Emma tried to help her friend Ben get rid if s ghost in the bar he wants to buy.

But is it a ghost? The deeper they delve into the mystery the more complicated it gets.

Even with the help of her ghost grandfather and her familiar cat Emma has a big challenge in front of her.

The characters are well developed and the story good.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Rhonda Boone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this 3rd book!! Was a liitle different than the other 2 books in the series… however, just aa so fearful read as the other two books. Ella takes a journey with her new friend Ben, as he tries to open a bar..and discovers is haunted by..a mysterious force?? I found myself laughing and on the end if my seat tryi g to help discover the force behind the mysteries?? Loved the surprises in this story!! You will too… highly recommend the book!!

I received this as an ARC for free and voluntarily leaving my review.

[Linnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I Love this paranormal cozy mystery series!

I really enjoyed Open for Witchiness, the third book of the Haunted Haven series by the talented author Ada Bell.

Emma is helping her friend Ben remove whatever spooky impediment that is is preventing him from reopening a haunted bar in Shady Grove, but first she will have to solve a twenty year old cold case mystery.

Emma is becoming very proficient with her thread witchery, and the innovative ways she is using this magic is brilliant.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Open for Witchness by Ada Bell is the 3rd book in this series and it did not disappoint! I loved it. I loved the characters and the plot. Each book gets better than the previous one. I think Ada Bell is my new favorite author and this series is number 1 on my list. What more can I say? You can read the synopsis of the book, so I won't go into that, but I will tell you that I enjoyed reading this book. If you want to escape from the real world for awhile, then this is the book that you need. Enjoy. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[LizJ. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 3rd book in the series and my favorite! Hilarious grandpa, snarky, funny familiar and trying to help a friend out has Emma's hands full! Each book in the series can be read as a standalone but it's a much better reading experience when read in order, each book just gets better and imo this one is the best so far! I'm hoping this series will continue. I'm so happy that I got to binge read this series as I hate waiting between books and it's so worth it!!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Voracious Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Emma tries to help her friend Ben with a haunting problem in the building he wants to purchase in order to attain his dream of owning a bar she encounters a ghost like she has never come across before.

I really like Emma. She came into a fortune but all she thinks of when spending her money is how she can help others. Her grandfather, Walter adds the humor to the book, and her cat familiar, Pink adds the sarcasm. All in all this group makes this book an enjoyable read.

I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this entertaining book. My opinion is given voluntarily.

[Lizz Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was excited to receive this Advanced Reading Copy from Book Sirens since I have grown to love the characters of this series and this cozy mystery writer. The elements of humor, mystery and intrigue are all there with the turns and twists I have come to expect from the series. Emma is learning more about her powers. Grandpa and Pink have more of a roll than the last book which I appreciated. I really can't say anything more without spoiling anything.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a good read! I really liked GhostCat and Emma. Walter could have had a little more personality though. Lucky was nice & finally got peace from Miles death. I never would’ve guessed that it was two people & the two that was doing it, when it comes to the haunting of the bar. Emma needs more time with Tim her boyfriend though. Pink needs to get out more. Overall I did enjoy the book. I received a free copy for my review.

[Jodi Sweet · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book! I can’t believe Pink hates riding in cars. And the carrier chase, just too funny! The mystery of the haunted bar was really good. I don’t want to give anything away, but I’m in love with the furry thing! Well, once he wasn’t dangerous anymore. I loved trying to solve the second mystery. I was so wrong on who it was. But finding out who really did it was what makes it fun!

[Christie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series, and I loved this book. Emma and her crew work together to figure out who or what is haunting an old bar that a friend would like to reopen. Someone or something has other ideas. I love the characters in this book, and I love how it is written to I feel like I'm right there involved in the action. I look forward to reading Emma's next adventure.

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

When her friend Ben is interested in buying and running a bar that was supposedly haunted, Emma tries to solve the mystery of the haunting and it turns out to be more than she was expecting. Very fun and interesting read. I will definitely read the next book. I received an advance readers copy of this book and I am leaving a voluntary review.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I hope this isn't the last story about Emma and her B&B as I've enjoyed all three books so far. The characters are fun, the story is well written and so easy to read and I can't put it down until I've finished but then I want more!
I did receive a copy of this book from the author but am happy to leave this review and recommend it - if you love cosy mysteries you'll love it.

[Mickey Kay Troxell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one in the series, even though I figured out part of the mystery early on. Finding out the rest at the end was fantastic. The characters continue to build into wonderful people and I look forward to more stories!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Irene · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 3 in the series. I like seeing Emma’s progression with her magic and her inactions with ghosts. I love the characters, ghostly and human alike. And of course, Pink the cat. The scene where Emma tries to outsmart him was hilarious.

I received a free ARC of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Nadine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun fun fun!

I love this series. The lighthearted tone is just right, the characters are wonderful and quirky, the plot is well thought out and the mystery is twisty! I expected the unexpected, but I was still surprised, well done! Very entertaining, very much worth your time!

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a nice cozy mystery to read. I didn't realize it was part of a series, but I was still able to keep up with what was happening despite not reading the first 2 books.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Rebecca Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful book in this awesome series.
Emma is a wonderful character. I loved reading this awesome book. I highly recommend reading this wonderful book...