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The Witches of Holiday Hills Cozy Mystery #1-2
There's a New Witch in Town
USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR Carolyn Ridder Aspenson’s Witches of Holiday Hills Cozy Mystery Series is a world of wonder and magic, but Cooper, her Burmese familiar cat, steals the show!
RECIPES INCLUDED!
Welcome to Holiday Hills, where the festive season is wrapped in magic and mystery, and my first Christmas as a witch is as enchanting as it is haunting without my mother's presence. I'm Abby Odell, a cozy mystery ghost writer, and while I'm decking the halls with boughs of holly, I'm also burying my mother, and discovering my own bewitching talents. A triple play of spectacular sorts if you will.
As the snowflakes dance and the scent of peppermint and mocha fills the air, Holiday Hills transforms into a winter wonderland full of quirky and magical characters, characters I thought only existed in fiction. From mystical shapeshifters to the ever-curious folks next door, everyone brings their own brand of holiday spirit to the Enchanted, the local bookstore and coffee shop where I’ve made my home for my writing and my witchcraft.
This yuletide, the festive joy is tinged with a twist of fate, a murderous twist where not only have two family members I didn’t know existed are killed, but I’m targeted by the murderer as well.
With my mother's best friend stirring hot cocoa and spells alike, and the sexy police chief too swamped with holiday crimes to notice me, it's up to me to unravel the tinsel-tangled mysteries. How I wish my best friend, Stella could help, but she’s human, and as I’ve been told repeatedly, magicals aren’t allowed to share their secrets.
You read that right. I can’t share my biggest secret with my best friend. I hope I can keep that promise.
And let's not forget my sidekick, a sassy talking cat named Cooper, who’s traded his usual cynicism for a Santa hat and a sleigh-load of sass. He may prefer his Christmas tuna to crime-solving, but together we're an unstoppable force.
With the ghost of Christmas past guiding me through a special long-lost memory and the town's lights glowing warm against the chill, I’m ready to write my own story of magic, mayhem, and mistletoe kisses. After all, in Holiday Hills, miracles may just come with a witch's broom.
Okay, maybe not the kisses. I’ll save that for my next book.
RECIPES INCLUDED!
Welcome to Holiday Hills, where the festive season is wrapped in magic and mystery, and my first Christmas as a witch is as enchanting as it is haunting without my mother's presence. I'm Abby Odell, a cozy mystery ghost writer, and while I'm decking the halls with boughs of holly, I'm also burying my mother, and discovering my own bewitching talents. A triple play of spectacular sorts if you will.
As the snowflakes dance and the scent of peppermint and mocha fills the air, Holiday Hills transforms into a winter wonderland full of quirky and magical characters, characters I thought only existed in fiction. From mystical shapeshifters to the ever-curious folks next door, everyone brings their own brand of holiday spirit to the Enchanted, the local bookstore and coffee shop where I’ve made my home for my writing and my witchcraft.
This yuletide, the festive joy is tinged with a twist of fate, a murderous twist where not only have two family members I didn’t know existed are killed, but I’m targeted by the murderer as well.
With my mother's best friend stirring hot cocoa and spells alike, and the sexy police chief too swamped with holiday crimes to notice me, it's up to me to unravel the tinsel-tangled mysteries. How I wish my best friend, Stella could help, but she’s human, and as I’ve been told repeatedly, magicals aren’t allowed to share their secrets.
You read that right. I can’t share my biggest secret with my best friend. I hope I can keep that promise.
And let's not forget my sidekick, a sassy talking cat named Cooper, who’s traded his usual cynicism for a Santa hat and a sleigh-load of sass. He may prefer his Christmas tuna to crime-solving, but together we're an unstoppable force.
With the ghost of Christmas past guiding me through a special long-lost memory and the town's lights glowing warm against the chill, I’m ready to write my own story of magic, mayhem, and mistletoe kisses. After all, in Holiday Hills, miracles may just come with a witch's broom.
Okay, maybe not the kisses. I’ll save that for my next book.
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 8, 2023
959 people are currently reading
2058 people want to read
About the author
Carolyn Ridder Aspenson
147 books543 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Carolyn Ridder Aspenson writes cozy mysteries, thrillers, and paranormal women's fiction featuring strong female leads. Her stories shine through her dialogue, which readers have praised for being realistic and compelling.
A multiple number one bestseller on Amazon, her first novel, Unfinished Business, was a five-star Reader's Favorite, a Rone Award finalist, as well as a number one bestseller on both Amazon and Barnes and Noble. In 2021, she introduced readers to detective Rachel Ryder in Damaging Secrets, also a number one bestseller on Amazon. Overkill, the third book in the Rachel Ryder series, was one of Thrillerfix’s best thrillers of 2021.Reviews have praised her work as ‘compelling, and intense,’ and ‘read through the night, edge of your seat thrillers. Carolyn’s most recent Rachel Ryder novel, Deadly Means, has been submitted for an Edgar Award by her publisher, Severn River Publishing.
Prior to publishing, she worked as a journalist in the suburbs of Atlanta where her work appeared in multiple newspapers and magazines. She wrote a monthly featured column in Northside Woman magazine.
Writing is only one of Carolyn's passions. She is an avid dog lover and currently spoils an American Staffordshire terrier boxer mix. She lives in the mountains of North Georgia as an empty nester (who misses her kids terribly but loves having a lower grocery bill) with her husband, a cantankerous cat, and her very spoiled pup.
Connect with Carolyn via carolyn@carolynridderaspenson.com
A multiple number one bestseller on Amazon, her first novel, Unfinished Business, was a five-star Reader's Favorite, a Rone Award finalist, as well as a number one bestseller on both Amazon and Barnes and Noble. In 2021, she introduced readers to detective Rachel Ryder in Damaging Secrets, also a number one bestseller on Amazon. Overkill, the third book in the Rachel Ryder series, was one of Thrillerfix’s best thrillers of 2021.Reviews have praised her work as ‘compelling, and intense,’ and ‘read through the night, edge of your seat thrillers. Carolyn’s most recent Rachel Ryder novel, Deadly Means, has been submitted for an Edgar Award by her publisher, Severn River Publishing.
Prior to publishing, she worked as a journalist in the suburbs of Atlanta where her work appeared in multiple newspapers and magazines. She wrote a monthly featured column in Northside Woman magazine.
Writing is only one of Carolyn's passions. She is an avid dog lover and currently spoils an American Staffordshire terrier boxer mix. She lives in the mountains of North Georgia as an empty nester (who misses her kids terribly but loves having a lower grocery bill) with her husband, a cantankerous cat, and her very spoiled pup.
Connect with Carolyn via carolyn@carolynridderaspenson.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
November 29, 2025
There’s a New Witch in Town by Carolyn Ridder Aspenson
The Witches of Holiday Hills Cozy Mystery series #1. Paranormal cozy.
Abby Odell can do magic. Real magic. The powers were passed to her from her recently deceased mother. Abby is noticing a lot of changes around Holiday Hills including the fact that someone is actually threatening her. Why? Apparently for her new magic powers. With the sexy police chief busy, it’s up to Abby and her now talking cat, Cooper, to figure out who wants her gone.
Amusing cozy. Abby has a lot to learn. Cooper only wants his tuna. Twists keep the story moving. Very entertaining.
The Witches of Holiday Hills Cozy Mystery series #1. Paranormal cozy.
Abby Odell can do magic. Real magic. The powers were passed to her from her recently deceased mother. Abby is noticing a lot of changes around Holiday Hills including the fact that someone is actually threatening her. Why? Apparently for her new magic powers. With the sexy police chief busy, it’s up to Abby and her now talking cat, Cooper, to figure out who wants her gone.
Amusing cozy. Abby has a lot to learn. Cooper only wants his tuna. Twists keep the story moving. Very entertaining.
January 16, 2020
The first book in a new series and the main character is an outstanding hit for me! It seems with cozy mysteries that it takes a couple of books or so to really flesh out the characters and bring their personalities to life, not so with this book! I was drawn to and liked the main character right from the start. Her personality was well established as were those of the other characters in the book. The plot was entertaining and intriguing as well. I can't wait to read more!!!
January 17, 2020
There's a New Witch in Town by Carolyn Ridder Aspenson is an engaging cozy witch mystery. Abby discovers after her mother's death that she is a witch and that the whole town that she has lived in her whole life is magical. Ms. Aspenson's descriptive writing made Abby, Cooper and the small town of Holiday Hills come to life as I read. A few twists, red herrings and a reveal that I had me gripping my Kindle made this a great afternoon read. I'm looking forward to more books in this series.
The author provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
The author provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 27, 2025
What a fun read! This is the first book in The Holiday Hills Witch Cozy Mystery Series. I loved this one and it's the perfect cozy mystery to start off the witchy season!
This book is about Abby Odell and how she finds out she's a witch, has a talking Burmese named Cooper, and is trying to outsmart a murderer!
This fast paced witchy mystery had me fully captivated and I devoured it in one sitting. This just might be my new favorite cozy mystery series. I can't wait to pick up the next one to see how the story continues!
This book is about Abby Odell and how she finds out she's a witch, has a talking Burmese named Cooper, and is trying to outsmart a murderer!
This fast paced witchy mystery had me fully captivated and I devoured it in one sitting. This just might be my new favorite cozy mystery series. I can't wait to pick up the next one to see how the story continues!
Read
June 11, 2024This was such a fun book to write! I love Abby and Cooper!
February 20, 2021
Cozy mysteries aren’t something I would pick out for myself. But I really enjoyed Abby and Cooper and this world of magic in holiday hills. Full disclosure. I did receive an audiobook code for an honest review.
Love the premise of the Main Character being an author. As someone who writes, All the tidbits there hit dead on target for me.
Fun, snark, and magic abound! Throw in some classic rock and I felt right at home!
Narration is sublime! The narrator is a fabulous actress and I found myself crying right along with Abby as the frustration of new witch powers and fear for her life took their toll. I was never uncertain who was speaking and was amazed as each new character showed up with a brand new voice. Such talent!
Buy this one. You’re getting your money’s worth with a clever book and fantastic audio production.
Love the premise of the Main Character being an author. As someone who writes, All the tidbits there hit dead on target for me.
Fun, snark, and magic abound! Throw in some classic rock and I felt right at home!
Narration is sublime! The narrator is a fabulous actress and I found myself crying right along with Abby as the frustration of new witch powers and fear for her life took their toll. I was never uncertain who was speaking and was amazed as each new character showed up with a brand new voice. Such talent!
Buy this one. You’re getting your money’s worth with a clever book and fantastic audio production.
May 10, 2020
There’s a New Witch in Town by Carolyn Ridder Aspenson is totally my catnip. I love stories about women just coming into their witchy powers!
There are a bunch of fun characters in this book, my favorite being the talking cat, Cooper. And I really enjoyed the grumpy werewolf, parrot, and completely clueless to the world of magic best friend.
I enjoyed how Aspenson wrote the use of magic in regards to people who don’t have it. I thought it was a fun twist and was useful because Abby and the other magic users wouldn’t have to be afraid of being caught using it.
And the mystery added another fun layer to the story. I’m already looking forward to book two, Witch This Way.
There are a bunch of fun characters in this book, my favorite being the talking cat, Cooper. And I really enjoyed the grumpy werewolf, parrot, and completely clueless to the world of magic best friend.
I enjoyed how Aspenson wrote the use of magic in regards to people who don’t have it. I thought it was a fun twist and was useful because Abby and the other magic users wouldn’t have to be afraid of being caught using it.
And the mystery added another fun layer to the story. I’m already looking forward to book two, Witch This Way.
March 18, 2021
2.5 rounded up to 3
While an enjoyable read, this book isn't bringing anything new to the literary table. Matter of fact, it drags out the same tired old plot device that is found in countless books in this genre. The surprise witch who freaks out constantly over her sudden powers and then does things that render her too-stupid-to-live.
Abby takes this stupidity up several notches. In one scene, when she's told ways to protect herself (by finding out who is after her) she states that she's stubborn and won't take orders *SIGH*. In another scene when she discovers that she's going to need to eliminate the person trying to KILL HER, she stammers that she's not a murderer *SIGH*. Seriously? It's not murder, you nitwit, it's self-defense! GAH!
Abby is likable, enough or rather she was until she boarded the too-stupid-to-live train. So, after freaking out for a majority of the book, she decides that she's "had enough! RAAA!" and runs off to confront the person trying to kill her. Did I mention that she knows nothing about magic and has spent the majority of the book freaking out so she hasn't learned how to defend herself? So, instead of calling somebody to help her or I don't know, back her up, she rushes into danger.
TOO-STUPID-TO-LIVE!
I started not liking her at that point.
There are humans in this book. Humans like Abby's best friend, Stella and her potential love interest, Gabe (although there are hints that he may be "more"). Humans who can't ever be told about magic! So they have to be lied to or their silly little brains will explode /snark. And...the author pulls out another overused plot device in this genre.
But it's not done there, let's throw in a scheming relative who wants to kill her for her powers. Nope, haven't seen that one used before... /snark.
Again, the book isn't a bad read. Abby is mostly likable as are the other characters in the book. The plot is paper thin and you know almost instantly who did it, why, and what happened. However, there are plot points that are completely dropped and never addressed again. Like the bird, constantly saying "Addie is here! Addie is here!" but never explained. SIGH.
There are TONS of grammatical errors. Words missing that completely change the meaning of the sentence. It's bad enough that I had to read a couple of sentences twice to make sure I got the right meaning.
The book didn't catch my interest enough to continue with this series. So, I think I'll pass on future books for now.
Clean read with no swearing, no sex, no romance....and I'll stop there.
While an enjoyable read, this book isn't bringing anything new to the literary table. Matter of fact, it drags out the same tired old plot device that is found in countless books in this genre. The surprise witch who freaks out constantly over her sudden powers and then does things that render her too-stupid-to-live.
Abby takes this stupidity up several notches. In one scene, when she's told ways to protect herself (by finding out who is after her) she states that she's stubborn and won't take orders *SIGH*. In another scene when she discovers that she's going to need to eliminate the person trying to KILL HER, she stammers that she's not a murderer *SIGH*. Seriously? It's not murder, you nitwit, it's self-defense! GAH!
Abby is likable, enough or rather she was until she boarded the too-stupid-to-live train. So, after freaking out for a majority of the book, she decides that she's "had enough! RAAA!" and runs off to confront the person trying to kill her. Did I mention that she knows nothing about magic and has spent the majority of the book freaking out so she hasn't learned how to defend herself? So, instead of calling somebody to help her or I don't know, back her up, she rushes into danger.
TOO-STUPID-TO-LIVE!
I started not liking her at that point.
There are humans in this book. Humans like Abby's best friend, Stella and her potential love interest, Gabe (although there are hints that he may be "more"). Humans who can't ever be told about magic! So they have to be lied to or their silly little brains will explode /snark. And...the author pulls out another overused plot device in this genre.
But it's not done there, let's throw in a scheming relative who wants to kill her for her powers. Nope, haven't seen that one used before... /snark.
Again, the book isn't a bad read. Abby is mostly likable as are the other characters in the book. The plot is paper thin and you know almost instantly who did it, why, and what happened. However, there are plot points that are completely dropped and never addressed again. Like the bird, constantly saying "Addie is here! Addie is here!" but never explained. SIGH.
There are TONS of grammatical errors. Words missing that completely change the meaning of the sentence. It's bad enough that I had to read a couple of sentences twice to make sure I got the right meaning.
The book didn't catch my interest enough to continue with this series. So, I think I'll pass on future books for now.
Clean read with no swearing, no sex, no romance....and I'll stop there.
January 22, 2020
I really liked the character Abigail Odell , cant wait to see her growth as she learns more about her secret life as a witch she was unaware of until her mom passed away. Abigail was just a regular girl, writing stories about witches and shapeshifters, till one day she realizes she was one as well. In this cozy she learns some of her moms secrets and the danger that comes with it.
January 24, 2020
Aspenson combines two of my favorite genres, paranormal and mystery. In this witchy new series Abby discovers she is a witch, has a talking cat named Cooper, and a murderer hot on her heels. This fast paced new series has me hooked. Cooper steals the show with his snarky cat attitude. There's A New Witch in Town is classic Aspenson.
February 7, 2020
There’s a New Witch In Town is a new series by Carolyn Ridder Aspenson. I have read a few books by this author and have never been disappointed. I’m delighted that this one continues that trend.
In this one we are introduced to Abby, a young writer who has just lost her beloved mother. Things start happening around her that she puts down to faulty wiring. In reality, she, who writes tales of a witch, is about to make a startling discovery.
I love the characters in this. Abby, love interest Gabe, best friend Stella and Bessie, her mom’s best friend. Mr Charming and Cooper were delightful surprises. I love the relationship Abby has with them.
One of the things I enjoy so much about Ms Aspenson’s writing is that she gives me so much to think about. She blends things and presents ideas and information that I find myself thinking about and remembering long after I close her books. She is also one author that I can count on to write characters that are strong yet still learning things. Her characters have relationships that are sometimes difficult. We get to see how those work out. In this case, not everyone can know about Abby’s newly discovered life. I have a best friend that I would be torn wanting to protect her but wanting to spill everything. I know, for different reasons, how delicate and tricky that is to balance. I’m so interested in how these relationships progress or change. The mystery I’m not going to say one word about because I am not chancing any type of spoiler. Matter of fact, I’m just stopping here and telling you to grab this book and read it now!
In this one we are introduced to Abby, a young writer who has just lost her beloved mother. Things start happening around her that she puts down to faulty wiring. In reality, she, who writes tales of a witch, is about to make a startling discovery.
I love the characters in this. Abby, love interest Gabe, best friend Stella and Bessie, her mom’s best friend. Mr Charming and Cooper were delightful surprises. I love the relationship Abby has with them.
One of the things I enjoy so much about Ms Aspenson’s writing is that she gives me so much to think about. She blends things and presents ideas and information that I find myself thinking about and remembering long after I close her books. She is also one author that I can count on to write characters that are strong yet still learning things. Her characters have relationships that are sometimes difficult. We get to see how those work out. In this case, not everyone can know about Abby’s newly discovered life. I have a best friend that I would be torn wanting to protect her but wanting to spill everything. I know, for different reasons, how delicate and tricky that is to balance. I’m so interested in how these relationships progress or change. The mystery I’m not going to say one word about because I am not chancing any type of spoiler. Matter of fact, I’m just stopping here and telling you to grab this book and read it now!
August 29, 2022
What a fun read! This is the first book in 𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝐻𝑜𝓁𝒾𝒹𝒶𝓎 𝐻𝒾𝓁𝓁𝓈 𝒲𝒾𝓉𝒸𝒽 𝒞𝑜𝓏𝓎 𝑀𝓎𝓈𝓉𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝒮𝑒𝓇𝒾𝑒𝓈. I loved this one and it’s the perfect cozy mystery to start off the witchy season!
This book is about Abby Odell and how she finds out she’s a witch, has a talking Burmese named Cooper, and is trying to outsmart a murderer!
This fast paced witchy mystery had me fully captivated and I devoured it in one sitting. This just might be my new favorite cozy mystery series. I can’t wait to pick up the next one to see how the story continues!
This book is about Abby Odell and how she finds out she’s a witch, has a talking Burmese named Cooper, and is trying to outsmart a murderer!
This fast paced witchy mystery had me fully captivated and I devoured it in one sitting. This just might be my new favorite cozy mystery series. I can’t wait to pick up the next one to see how the story continues!
January 21, 2020
First book in a new series. A cozy with paranormal action mixed together turned out to be a good combination for me. I liked the characters, Bessie and Abby were my favorites. Can’t wait to see the love blossom and what new powers Abby can master.
Oh and Mr Charming is quite intriguing also!
Fast read with lists of action.
Oh and Mr Charming is quite intriguing also!
Fast read with lists of action.
August 9, 2025
"There'sa New Witch in Town" is book one in "The Witches of Holidays Hills Cozy Mystery" series by Carolyn Ridder Aspenson. Abby finds out that her mom was keeping secrets from her to keep her safe. Her mother also thought she had more time to let Abby know about her family. Now, with Abby's mother passing away, Abby has to find out the hard way about her new world. Carolyn does an amazing job writing about the supernatural world. I absolutely love a good witch story, and Carolyn definitely delivers it. My favorite part is how she has her cat, Cooper, and her mom's bird, Mr. Charming and usually where one is the others aren't far away. I will most certainly be visiting this series again and checking other books by this author out.
February 7, 2021
I didn't have high expectations for this book, but I was still disappointed by it. It had great potential, but was poorly executed. Even though it was supposed be a mystery, the ending was fairly predictable and in all honesty, not very exciting. It was supposed to leave the reader hungry for more in the series, but it came across as weak and underwhelming. I wish that rather than rushing through it, the author had devoted another 100-200 pages exploring the backstory, building the characters, and adding to the suspense. I will not be continuing the series. I just wish it had a bit more substance to it.
February 17, 2023
Weirdly unsatisfying read...
It just fell flat. Abigail Odell's mother has died and she's discovered that she is a witch. Abby works as a ghostwriter writing paranormal cozy mysteries and suddenly finds herself caught in a paradox, she can't reveal her witch powers to humans and yet she writes about witches, which bizarrely doesn't register when it ought to.
Something about a family falling out over power, banished aunt and uncle, something about a werewolf and his friend, a power grab, and oh, yes that ultimate cliché she's in love with the Chief who is a normal.
It wasn't a strong storyline, it didn't feel fully fleshed out and the normals just not seeing magic appeared to be an excuse for lazy writing and negated the need to cover for anything unexplainable. It's short too.
It just fell flat. Abigail Odell's mother has died and she's discovered that she is a witch. Abby works as a ghostwriter writing paranormal cozy mysteries and suddenly finds herself caught in a paradox, she can't reveal her witch powers to humans and yet she writes about witches, which bizarrely doesn't register when it ought to.
Something about a family falling out over power, banished aunt and uncle, something about a werewolf and his friend, a power grab, and oh, yes that ultimate cliché she's in love with the Chief who is a normal.
It wasn't a strong storyline, it didn't feel fully fleshed out and the normals just not seeing magic appeared to be an excuse for lazy writing and negated the need to cover for anything unexplainable. It's short too.
May 26, 2020
Audiobook Review
Overall 5 Stars
Performace 5 Stars
Story 5 Stars
Another superb story from Carolyn Ridder Aspenson Aspenson combines two of my favorite genres, paranormal and mystery. In this witchy new series, Abby discovers she is a witch, has a talking cat named Cooper, and a murderer hot on her heels. This fast-paced new series has me hooked. Cooper steals the show with his snarky cat attitude. There's A New Witch in Town is classic Aspenson.
Jamie Moore is great as the narrator! I love her laid back impression of Cooper the cat. I hope she will continue to be the narrator on the remainder of the series.
Overall 5 Stars
Performace 5 Stars
Story 5 Stars
Another superb story from Carolyn Ridder Aspenson Aspenson combines two of my favorite genres, paranormal and mystery. In this witchy new series, Abby discovers she is a witch, has a talking cat named Cooper, and a murderer hot on her heels. This fast-paced new series has me hooked. Cooper steals the show with his snarky cat attitude. There's A New Witch in Town is classic Aspenson.
Jamie Moore is great as the narrator! I love her laid back impression of Cooper the cat. I hope she will continue to be the narrator on the remainder of the series.
January 12, 2020
This is a delightful new cozy series with memorable characters, adorable talking pets, and a magical tone that kept me reading until the end and wanting more. I fell in love with this wonderful storyline immediately. Abby Odell is a witch. This is a total surprise to her, she never knew until her mother told her just before she passed. I immediately liked Abby, and loved following this story and getting to know her. Abby will be involved in many mysteries in the future as this is a fantastic series, and definitely a fun read!
June 17, 2020
I have been provided with a copy of There’s a New Witch in Town by the author for an impartial review. This is the first book in the brand-new The Holiday Hills Witch Cozy Mystery series and this was just a fantastic way to start off a new series. I was immediately drawn into this world with this amazing storyline and it’s amazing characters. I just had so much fun reading this story and I just couldn’t help but fall in love with all of the characters. I was just so sad to turn the last page. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
January 23, 2020
Abby O'Dell, loses her mom.. things begin to happen things she never dreamed of. In fact- things Abby believes to be fiction
While Abby is grieving over her mom- she is learning new things about herself.. such as she is a witch.... this was a fun fast read.. a witch who can twitch her nose for fun magic to make it happen..
This was truly a fast read a fun read I enjoyed it looking forward to more books in this series this author does some really good work I love her books..
While Abby is grieving over her mom- she is learning new things about herself.. such as she is a witch.... this was a fun fast read.. a witch who can twitch her nose for fun magic to make it happen..
This was truly a fast read a fun read I enjoyed it looking forward to more books in this series this author does some really good work I love her books..
January 14, 2020
This is a great fast paced first book in a new cozy mystery series. Abby's life changes with the death of her mother and her eyes are opened to the magical world around her. This has humor and mystery set in an unusual town. Great characters, including the animals had me reading straight through. I can't wait to see what happens next.
January 30, 2023
This was an incredible story!
The characters were amazing!! I loved reading and getting to know each character and forming a bond with them.
The storyline was phenomenal! It's so full of fun, suspense and it kept me guessing about how the story would turn out. And what a plot twist it was!! I highly recommend this read!
The characters were amazing!! I loved reading and getting to know each character and forming a bond with them.
The storyline was phenomenal! It's so full of fun, suspense and it kept me guessing about how the story would turn out. And what a plot twist it was!! I highly recommend this read!
February 12, 2021
I couldn't put this book down. So many twists and surprises and I had to resist jumping to the end to see how it ended. Lots of funny moments, fun characters, and amazing animal sidekicks. Lots of surprises along the way. Great new series.
March 26, 2020
This wasn't a bad read. It just wasn't bringing anything really new to the table. The main character was likable. I just felt the story line was trying to hard to be modern and fresh but was really just more of what I've read in other books.
April 30, 2024
This was a very entertaining book. The characters were well-developed and the plot was engaging. I am looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
Amazon synopsis:
Welcome to Holiday Hills, where the festive season is wrapped in magic and mystery, and my first Christmas as a witch is as enchanting as it is haunting without my mother's presence. I'm Abby Odell, a cozy mystery ghost writer, and while I'm decking the halls with boughs of holly, I'm also burying my mother, and discovering my own bewitching talents. A triple play of spectacular sorts if you will.
As the snowflakes dance and the scent of peppermint and mocha fills the air, Holiday Hills transforms into a winter wonderland full of quirky and magical characters, characters I thought only existed in fiction. From mystical shapeshifters to the ever-curious folks next door, everyone brings their own brand of holiday spirit to the Enchanted, the local bookstore and coffee shop where I’ve made my home for my writing and my witchcraft.
This yuletide, the festive joy is tinged with a twist of fate, a murderous twist where not only have two family members I didn’t know existed are killed, but I’m targeted by the murderer as well.
With my mother's best friend stirring hot cocoa and spells alike, and the sexy police chief too swamped with holiday crimes to notice me, it's up to me to unravel the tinsel-tangled mysteries. How I wish my best friend, Stella could help, but she’s human, and as I’ve been told repeatedly, magicals aren’t allowed to share their secrets.
You read that right. I can’t share my biggest secret with my best friend. I hope I can keep that promise.
And let's not forget my sidekick, a sassy talking cat named Cooper, who’s traded his usual cynicism for a Santa hat and a sleigh-load of sass. He may prefer his Christmas tuna to crime-solving, but together we're an unstoppable force.
With the ghost of Christmas past guiding me through a special long-lost memory and the town's lights glowing warm against the chill, I’m ready to write my own story of magic, mayhem, and mistletoe kisses. After all, in Holiday Hills, miracles may just come with a witch's broom.
Okay, maybe not the kisses. I’ll save that for my next book.
Amazon synopsis:
Welcome to Holiday Hills, where the festive season is wrapped in magic and mystery, and my first Christmas as a witch is as enchanting as it is haunting without my mother's presence. I'm Abby Odell, a cozy mystery ghost writer, and while I'm decking the halls with boughs of holly, I'm also burying my mother, and discovering my own bewitching talents. A triple play of spectacular sorts if you will.
As the snowflakes dance and the scent of peppermint and mocha fills the air, Holiday Hills transforms into a winter wonderland full of quirky and magical characters, characters I thought only existed in fiction. From mystical shapeshifters to the ever-curious folks next door, everyone brings their own brand of holiday spirit to the Enchanted, the local bookstore and coffee shop where I’ve made my home for my writing and my witchcraft.
This yuletide, the festive joy is tinged with a twist of fate, a murderous twist where not only have two family members I didn’t know existed are killed, but I’m targeted by the murderer as well.
With my mother's best friend stirring hot cocoa and spells alike, and the sexy police chief too swamped with holiday crimes to notice me, it's up to me to unravel the tinsel-tangled mysteries. How I wish my best friend, Stella could help, but she’s human, and as I’ve been told repeatedly, magicals aren’t allowed to share their secrets.
You read that right. I can’t share my biggest secret with my best friend. I hope I can keep that promise.
And let's not forget my sidekick, a sassy talking cat named Cooper, who’s traded his usual cynicism for a Santa hat and a sleigh-load of sass. He may prefer his Christmas tuna to crime-solving, but together we're an unstoppable force.
With the ghost of Christmas past guiding me through a special long-lost memory and the town's lights glowing warm against the chill, I’m ready to write my own story of magic, mayhem, and mistletoe kisses. After all, in Holiday Hills, miracles may just come with a witch's broom.
Okay, maybe not the kisses. I’ll save that for my next book.
April 17, 2020
If you're a fan of Carolyn Aspenson, this has her story only with Witches and Warlocks and Shapeshifters who become Wolves Oh My!
Seriously, I forgot I ordered this book before it came out until I heard Carolyn Ridder Aspenson mention it in a Facebook Live she did this week. I admitted to her I had to set an alarm to get up to attend her Live by 10 AM. The next day, after finishing the latest Mark Dawson book, I began There's a New Witch in Town. At 3 AM I told myself I really needed to turn in! Reminiscent of ReGina Welling and Erin Lynn's Fate Weaver series, this story has a daughter learning she's a witch on her mother's death bed! Mom had bound her powers to allow her to have a life as a 'normal,' then make her decision of she wanted to embrace her powers. It seems the Odell family comes from a long line of very powerful witches. With Abby having a powerful Warlock for a father and an Odell witch as a mother, the whole town wanted TO know how she would turn out. So Abby thinks everyone knows imma witch but me? Well, maybe not the normals like her best friend Stella. Now an Aunt and Uncle she never knew she even had seen to want her dead to take away her powers! This isn't your typical Cozy story at all! Enjoy reading it and if you want people who talk to the Dead and no witches, see her Angela Panther murder !mystery stories with a great deal of mother daughter sass. Except mother is a ghost!
Seriously, I forgot I ordered this book before it came out until I heard Carolyn Ridder Aspenson mention it in a Facebook Live she did this week. I admitted to her I had to set an alarm to get up to attend her Live by 10 AM. The next day, after finishing the latest Mark Dawson book, I began There's a New Witch in Town. At 3 AM I told myself I really needed to turn in! Reminiscent of ReGina Welling and Erin Lynn's Fate Weaver series, this story has a daughter learning she's a witch on her mother's death bed! Mom had bound her powers to allow her to have a life as a 'normal,' then make her decision of she wanted to embrace her powers. It seems the Odell family comes from a long line of very powerful witches. With Abby having a powerful Warlock for a father and an Odell witch as a mother, the whole town wanted TO know how she would turn out. So Abby thinks everyone knows imma witch but me? Well, maybe not the normals like her best friend Stella. Now an Aunt and Uncle she never knew she even had seen to want her dead to take away her powers! This isn't your typical Cozy story at all! Enjoy reading it and if you want people who talk to the Dead and no witches, see her Angela Panther murder !mystery stories with a great deal of mother daughter sass. Except mother is a ghost!
November 25, 2024
This definitely was a cozy mystery. This is a series that I have not read before. If you want a cute, no brainer type of read, this may do the trick. It is set in a town called Holiday Hills around the Christmas season, so it was perfect for this time of year.
If I could liken this to anything, I would say it reminded me of the Halloweentown movie franchise. You know, fits the season and has an outrageous amount of cheesiness to boot.
Basically, the main character is a writer of a series where her main character is a witch. However, she quickly finds her own life in a spiral. Her mother passes right before the holidays, and she is trying to hang on… when it is revealed, that she is, herself, a witch. Her mother wanted her to lead a normal life, but now it is time she knows. She discovers there is a lot to learn about being a magical, but she has to learn quickly… because someone is after her and her magic! (Cheesiness factor. You were warned.)
Almost forgot to mention that there were recipes at the end of the book for the yummy treats the characters snack on in multiple scenes! That’s always a plus!!!!
If I could liken this to anything, I would say it reminded me of the Halloweentown movie franchise. You know, fits the season and has an outrageous amount of cheesiness to boot.
Basically, the main character is a writer of a series where her main character is a witch. However, she quickly finds her own life in a spiral. Her mother passes right before the holidays, and she is trying to hang on… when it is revealed, that she is, herself, a witch. Her mother wanted her to lead a normal life, but now it is time she knows. She discovers there is a lot to learn about being a magical, but she has to learn quickly… because someone is after her and her magic! (Cheesiness factor. You were warned.)
Almost forgot to mention that there were recipes at the end of the book for the yummy treats the characters snack on in multiple scenes! That’s always a plus!!!!
January 15, 2020
Abigail Odell's life changed drastically when her mother died. Suddenly unusual things are happening around her. When she learns her mother never told her of her magical heritage, Abby is shocked. She can't believe that she's being stalked and that someone or something is trying to kill her and take her powers. Abby needs answers. I'm shocked how quickly she adjusts to all these changes. She's amazing. With the help of her familiar, Cooper, she's learning how to be a witch. Her former cuddly cat is protective and snarky. He's the helper that Abby needs. She just has to remember the tuna. Gabe Ryder is the town's Sheriff and a mortal, but Abby is attracted to him. I'm hoping that this doesn't stop them from getting together. They make a cute couple I enjoyed There's A New Witch In Town. It's filled with interesting characters and unexpected twists. Carolyn Ridder Aspenson has a writing style that pulls me in.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
April 14, 2023
I was searching for a cozy book to read in-between my TBR picks when I stumbled across this series on Kindle Unlimited. Intrigued by the synopsis and the promise of a short read, I decided to give it a try. I am so glad I did! The story and town description were charming, and I can honestly say that this is my quintessential cozy mystery book. It had everything I was looking for in a palate cleanser and more. I can't wait to pick up the next book in the series after I finish the two I'm currently reading.
This book has all the pieces of a cozy mystery that I needed. I instantly fell in love with the main character, Abby, and her cat/familiar, Cooper. I enjoyed hearing about Abby’s clumsiness with coming into her witchy powers and was pleasantly surprised by the twist in the book. I can't wait to read more in the series to see what happens next in Holiday Hills.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves supernatural stories and cozy mysteries, mixed with a Hallmark-esque small town.
This book has all the pieces of a cozy mystery that I needed. I instantly fell in love with the main character, Abby, and her cat/familiar, Cooper. I enjoyed hearing about Abby’s clumsiness with coming into her witchy powers and was pleasantly surprised by the twist in the book. I can't wait to read more in the series to see what happens next in Holiday Hills.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves supernatural stories and cozy mysteries, mixed with a Hallmark-esque small town.
January 21, 2020
There's a New Witch in Town is a really strong first book in the new Holiday Hills Witch Cozy Mystery series. In this book, we meet Abby Odell who is grieving the recent death of her mother and wrestling with learning that she is a witch. Yes, an honest-to-goodness, twitch your nose and magic happens, witch.
Learning she is a witch opens up a world of discovery and trouble for Abby. Her sweet cat, Cooper, is now her familiar - and he can speak to her, in English! She learns that her mother's death may not have been natural, and the person who may have killed her also wants Abby dead.
On top of all the supernatural weirdness that has been thrust on Abby, she also has to keep up with her everyday life: ghostwriting cozy mysteries, spending time with her best friend, and trying to hide her crush on the sheriff.
Carolyn Ridder Aspenson has hit the ball out of the park with There's a New Witch in Town! I eagerly await book 2.
Learning she is a witch opens up a world of discovery and trouble for Abby. Her sweet cat, Cooper, is now her familiar - and he can speak to her, in English! She learns that her mother's death may not have been natural, and the person who may have killed her also wants Abby dead.
On top of all the supernatural weirdness that has been thrust on Abby, she also has to keep up with her everyday life: ghostwriting cozy mysteries, spending time with her best friend, and trying to hide her crush on the sheriff.
Carolyn Ridder Aspenson has hit the ball out of the park with There's a New Witch in Town! I eagerly await book 2.
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