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Sweet Pea Mysteries #1
The Baker's Guide to Risky Rituals
A Kitchen Witch with a bite, a King of Hell on a mission, and a candy coated town hiding bitter secrets.
Josie Benoit, gourmet patissier and kitchen witch, may not be a Sweet Pea native but she's made the small town her home and she intends on keeping it that way. When trouble rolls into town on the seats of shining motorcycles, and the safety of her home and her own reputation are put at risk, Josie bands together with her coven to protect her world from a dark influence.
If only that dark influence wasn't so deliciously handsome.
King Beleth is not a demon to be trifled with.
Leader of the Hell’s Bells MC and one of the great warlords of the Bowels, Beleth takes pride in his work and has the patience of a… man who knows what is best is worth waiting for. Known as Bell—to his friends, which you are not—he’s come to Sweet Pea to dismantle the core of good at the heart of the little town. But upon arrival he discovers three things that might just get in the way of his work:
Sweet Pea is more disgustingly adorable than they were warned.
The town has a coven of witches protecting it.
He’s developing a sweet tooth.
Josie Benoit, gourmet patissier and kitchen witch, may not be a Sweet Pea native but she's made the small town her home and she intends on keeping it that way. When trouble rolls into town on the seats of shining motorcycles, and the safety of her home and her own reputation are put at risk, Josie bands together with her coven to protect her world from a dark influence.
If only that dark influence wasn't so deliciously handsome.
King Beleth is not a demon to be trifled with.
Leader of the Hell’s Bells MC and one of the great warlords of the Bowels, Beleth takes pride in his work and has the patience of a… man who knows what is best is worth waiting for. Known as Bell—to his friends, which you are not—he’s come to Sweet Pea to dismantle the core of good at the heart of the little town. But upon arrival he discovers three things that might just get in the way of his work:
Sweet Pea is more disgustingly adorable than they were warned.
The town has a coven of witches protecting it.
He’s developing a sweet tooth.
258 pages, Paperback
First published October 18, 2019
362 people are currently reading
710 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Moon
40 books5,262 followersKathryn Moon is a country mouse who started dictating stories to her mother at an early age. The fascination with building new worlds and discovering the lives of the characters who grew in her head never faltered, and she graduated college with a fiction writing degree. She loves writing women were are strong in their vulnerability, romances that are as affectionate as they are challenging, and worlds that a reader sinks into and never wants to leave. When her hands aren't busy typing they're probably knitting sweaters or crimping pie crust in Ohio. She definitely believes in magic.
You can reach her on Facebook and at ohkathrynmoon@gmail.com
You can reach her on Facebook and at ohkathrynmoon@gmail.com
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April 28, 2023dnf at %38
i didn't like switch between the povs 😩 so many character povs yet so little for the main couple, they barely interacted with each other and it felt forced.
i didn't like switch between the povs 😩 so many character povs yet so little for the main couple, they barely interacted with each other and it felt forced.
June 10, 2021
Spoilers ahead, 3.5*
The ONLY reason I haven't read this book previously is because the series is still ongoing and I hate waiting. Given the fact that I've adjusted my reading goal for the first time ever I decided to try my luck with this book.
So we have a group of demons led by a King of He'll called Bel, they've been sent to Sweet Pea because the town's just too......good. A little trouble making is just what the devil ordered
Josie is a witch/baker and a member of a coven of four witches in town. She's captivated by the sexy demon but knows very well him and his crew are up to no good.
As a series of unsolved murders throw suspicion the witches Josie finds help in her group and......one sexy king of he'll.
*******
I've enjoyed "most" of this author's works and this one is no different. I admit it took a bit to get going and the multiple POVs threw me off but underneath there was solid writing and an interesting beginning to a new series.
The romance was there but it wasn't dominant, I'm not usually a fan of books like these because I prefer my.cms to have their HEA in one book but I enjoyed this one enough that I'm looking forward to more in the series.
No cheating
Maybe a HFN ish type ending?
Bel is a demon who'd been summoned for sex previously (probably the only thing that bothered me a wee bit. It definitely wasn't made into a bug deal thankfully)
*Listen if my book has demons in it I expect ass kicking badasses ok! For a KING of hell Bel was a little tame......hopefully they'll get to stomp some faces in in later books
The ONLY reason I haven't read this book previously is because the series is still ongoing and I hate waiting. Given the fact that I've adjusted my reading goal for the first time ever I decided to try my luck with this book.
So we have a group of demons led by a King of He'll called Bel, they've been sent to Sweet Pea because the town's just too......good. A little trouble making is just what the devil ordered
Josie is a witch/baker and a member of a coven of four witches in town. She's captivated by the sexy demon but knows very well him and his crew are up to no good.
As a series of unsolved murders throw suspicion the witches Josie finds help in her group and......one sexy king of he'll.
*******
I've enjoyed "most" of this author's works and this one is no different. I admit it took a bit to get going and the multiple POVs threw me off but underneath there was solid writing and an interesting beginning to a new series.
The romance was there but it wasn't dominant, I'm not usually a fan of books like these because I prefer my.cms to have their HEA in one book but I enjoyed this one enough that I'm looking forward to more in the series.
No cheating
Maybe a HFN ish type ending?
Bel is a demon who'd been summoned for sex previously (probably the only thing that bothered me a wee bit. It definitely wasn't made into a bug deal thankfully)
*Listen if my book has demons in it I expect ass kicking badasses ok! For a KING of hell Bel was a little tame......hopefully they'll get to stomp some faces in in later books
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December 24, 2019
Good writing and pretty cute characters, but the hero is supposed to be an evil millennia-year old demon and I never really 'felt' this. Like, his mental voice wasn't old or evil, there was no 'weight of centuries' sense when I read his POV.
Also, there was way more focus on the mystery than the romance. So overall it was decent but I think the sequel will be better. I did enjoy the insight on Loa culture we got, though.
[Blog] - [Bookstagram]
Also, there was way more focus on the mystery than the romance. So overall it was decent but I think the sequel will be better. I did enjoy the insight on Loa culture we got, though.
[Blog] - [Bookstagram]
July 9, 2024
That one had quite a few interesting aspects, but also a whole lot of stupid.
March 21, 2020
I liked it. Easy going with plenty of mystery, questions and hints to the next pairing. A demon bike gang and a coven of witches. Josie wasn’t a push around and Bell wasn’t an idiot. Looking forward to the sisters stories. Favourite character at this point was Ash.
October 18, 2019
I loved this dough much!
This book was amazing!! Kathryn Moon never disappoints. Demons, witches, sass, and mystery, what’s NOT to love about this book? I absolutely can’t wait to read the next one.
This book was amazing!! Kathryn Moon never disappoints. Demons, witches, sass, and mystery, what’s NOT to love about this book? I absolutely can’t wait to read the next one.
December 20, 2021
I tried reading this a while ago and couldn’t get into it, but tried again because I’m reading books where a MC is a baker. Also, I really like the updated overs for these books - definitely fits the vibe of the series better.
This book is very different from Kathryn Moon’s usual books, which are reverse harem, medium to fast burn, very steamy. I would call this book a downright slow burn.
Also, while this is a romance, I wouldn’t say the romance is front and center. It’s dual person third POV, but we also get POVs from the other witches in Josie’s coven, the guys in Bell’s band, and even random side characters. It felt more like a slightly spooky Halloween, small town mystery than a romping romance.
I liked the world building of the book - Bell is a King from Hell tasked by Morningstar to disrupt the town of Sweet Pea. Josie and three witches are in a coven, known to locals but not exactly “believed” as being actual witches.
I wish there had been more friendship between Josie and the women. It seemed like the only real friendship was between her and Rosa, and then June and her sister Imogen kind of float on their own, out of touch even with each other.
The purpose/rank of the demon band disguising themselves as a motorcycle club isn’t exactly clear. They’re tasked with ruining the “good” of Sweet Pea - but why does Morningstar concern himself with a small town on Earth? I’m wondering if that’ll be clear as future books go.
By the end, I still didn’t feel Bell and Josie knew each other. I think I would have preferred if this had been almost a Throne of Glass-type book - in that there are multiple POVs but the characters aren’t paired off per book, but by the end of the series.
This book is very different from Kathryn Moon’s usual books, which are reverse harem, medium to fast burn, very steamy. I would call this book a downright slow burn.
Also, while this is a romance, I wouldn’t say the romance is front and center. It’s dual person third POV, but we also get POVs from the other witches in Josie’s coven, the guys in Bell’s band, and even random side characters. It felt more like a slightly spooky Halloween, small town mystery than a romping romance.
I liked the world building of the book - Bell is a King from Hell tasked by Morningstar to disrupt the town of Sweet Pea. Josie and three witches are in a coven, known to locals but not exactly “believed” as being actual witches.
I wish there had been more friendship between Josie and the women. It seemed like the only real friendship was between her and Rosa, and then June and her sister Imogen kind of float on their own, out of touch even with each other.
The purpose/rank of the demon band disguising themselves as a motorcycle club isn’t exactly clear. They’re tasked with ruining the “good” of Sweet Pea - but why does Morningstar concern himself with a small town on Earth? I’m wondering if that’ll be clear as future books go.
By the end, I still didn’t feel Bell and Josie knew each other. I think I would have preferred if this had been almost a Throne of Glass-type book - in that there are multiple POVs but the characters aren’t paired off per book, but by the end of the series.
April 28, 2021
Eh, didn’t love this one but I’ll give the next one in the series a shot to see if it picks up for me.
October 20, 2019
I was given this book for free in exchange for an honest review. As I’ve said before, I always give honest reviews whether people appreciate them or not.
This story begins with seven, dark riders (of motorcycles) riding into small town Sweet Pea. This town is so sweet, so quaint, so lovely and so about to be in trouble. This Motorcycle Club is full of Kings, Dukes and Earls and no, they aren’t British Nobles. They are Hell’s Nobles. Let that since in for a moment. The MC is led by King Beleth, Bell in his human form, a mighty and terrible king of Hell. The riders with him are Aim (a Duke), Barbie (an Earl), Vinny (a King demoted to be Bell’s soldier), Dante (a Duke), Ashtaroth (Ash) and Pie (a King and Bell’s second in command). When they arrive in town they stop in front of Josephine's Bakery, owned and run by Josie. It’s really a Patisserie and she makes scrumptious French pastries. Josie is also one of four witches in the Sweet Pea coven. She truly doesn’t want the dark, MC in her bakery and she thinks she smells brimstone when they enter.
All right, the MC call themselves Hell’s Bells Motorcycle Club. They are a team of demons sent to this town because it’s so GOOD that when people leave it they say it is “The Safest Town in America”. Their big boss wants them to basically destroy it. Josie’s Coven members are Rosa and sisters June and Imogen. Frankly, the witches are an interesting bunch of women. June and Imogen are from Sweet Pea but Josie is a recent transplant. She was raised, in part, in New Orleans with her grandmother. She may be a witch but she is also a practitioner of Voodoo. Imogen recognizes Dante as a demon and the coven feel they have to get to work to protect their town. Besides all of that, there’s a murder that looks like it was done by witches.
So I will be honest with you all, I chose this book initially because of its cover. I appreciate a heroine that is brave enough to shave her head. I did not, however, have any idea what I was getting into with this story. Ms. Moon states very clearly in the Foreword that the demons are inspired by a mid 17th century grimoire, Christian mythology and that we should very definitely remember that this is a work of fiction. With that said, if you aren’t afraid of demons sent from Hell, witchcraft and a touch of Voodoo, this is a great story. I will add that it was all I could do to not refer to Sweet Pea's coven as Josie and the Pussycats. Ms. Moon wrote a very detailed and exciting story. I actually loved Bell and Josie, together or not so together. I had not read anything from her before, now I have a list of ‘must reads’ and the possibility of whatever the second book of this series is!
This story begins with seven, dark riders (of motorcycles) riding into small town Sweet Pea. This town is so sweet, so quaint, so lovely and so about to be in trouble. This Motorcycle Club is full of Kings, Dukes and Earls and no, they aren’t British Nobles. They are Hell’s Nobles. Let that since in for a moment. The MC is led by King Beleth, Bell in his human form, a mighty and terrible king of Hell. The riders with him are Aim (a Duke), Barbie (an Earl), Vinny (a King demoted to be Bell’s soldier), Dante (a Duke), Ashtaroth (Ash) and Pie (a King and Bell’s second in command). When they arrive in town they stop in front of Josephine's Bakery, owned and run by Josie. It’s really a Patisserie and she makes scrumptious French pastries. Josie is also one of four witches in the Sweet Pea coven. She truly doesn’t want the dark, MC in her bakery and she thinks she smells brimstone when they enter.
All right, the MC call themselves Hell’s Bells Motorcycle Club. They are a team of demons sent to this town because it’s so GOOD that when people leave it they say it is “The Safest Town in America”. Their big boss wants them to basically destroy it. Josie’s Coven members are Rosa and sisters June and Imogen. Frankly, the witches are an interesting bunch of women. June and Imogen are from Sweet Pea but Josie is a recent transplant. She was raised, in part, in New Orleans with her grandmother. She may be a witch but she is also a practitioner of Voodoo. Imogen recognizes Dante as a demon and the coven feel they have to get to work to protect their town. Besides all of that, there’s a murder that looks like it was done by witches.
So I will be honest with you all, I chose this book initially because of its cover. I appreciate a heroine that is brave enough to shave her head. I did not, however, have any idea what I was getting into with this story. Ms. Moon states very clearly in the Foreword that the demons are inspired by a mid 17th century grimoire, Christian mythology and that we should very definitely remember that this is a work of fiction. With that said, if you aren’t afraid of demons sent from Hell, witchcraft and a touch of Voodoo, this is a great story. I will add that it was all I could do to not refer to Sweet Pea's coven as Josie and the Pussycats. Ms. Moon wrote a very detailed and exciting story. I actually loved Bell and Josie, together or not so together. I had not read anything from her before, now I have a list of ‘must reads’ and the possibility of whatever the second book of this series is!
April 11, 2020
Surprisingly edible
Characters were a lot better than i expected given the blurb. I enjoyed Bell and the enemies-lovers byplay. Scene at 2669 was quite hot
Characters were a lot better than i expected given the blurb. I enjoyed Bell and the enemies-lovers byplay. Scene at 2669 was quite hot
dont-want-to-read
August 20, 2022I don’t really like motorcycle club books
July 22, 2022
Really liked this! My third Kathryn Moon book in a short span, but they're all so different that I don't feel burnt out at all. This one is much more slow burn than the other two I read (A Lady of Rooksgrave Manor and Good Deeds), but I liked the worldbuilding a lot. Very excited for the next one, since the knitting/yarn details in this book were so accurate!
Anyway, Bell and Josie were good leads, and I liked the varied POVs from the secondary characters as well.
Anyway, Bell and Josie were good leads, and I liked the varied POVs from the secondary characters as well.
October 15, 2025
Just really bad felt like the plot ended in the middle of the story. Spice was really rushed and didn’t make sense. FMC and MMC has 2 conversations the entire book. Probably exchanged a total of 50 words total i would be afraid to go back and count. Get getting random POV from all the other char haters and that took up 1/2 a 200 page book. NO HEA like at they don’t even say I love you. Just really bad.
March 12, 2024
Motorcycle crew from the depths of hell sent to cause chaos in a small too sweet town finds a coven of witches stands in their way, their one goal to protect the town they've come to love.
Enemies to Lovers
Demons vs Witches
Enemies to Lovers
Demons vs Witches
September 22, 2020
3.5⭐️
I just didn’t connect so well with these characters but still enjoyed it!
I just didn’t connect so well with these characters but still enjoyed it!
August 19, 2020
Real rating: 3.5⭐︎
I've found my first Moon book that has not sent me into giddy bouncing around after, but that doesn't mean I didn't enjoy it.
TBGtRR is quite different than Moon's RH works, especially in the sexy times department. This is one pretty clean book until 92% of the way in, so if you're looking for a steamy smutfest, this book is not it. Even when you get there, it's quite a bit less explicit than the previous works I've read. Still totally satisfying and enjoyable, but you'll be reading a lot of story before you get to the steamy parts. If you like more "cozy" romances, this might fit the bill better than some of her other works.
The premise of this series is pretty cute: 3 Good Witches with cozy jobs and magic and 1 of more...iffy persuasions protect the town of Sweat Pea, VA, and encourage the Goodness in the community around them. They've done a little too good of a job and have ended up on Hell's radar. Enter, a motorcycle club made up of 7 demons—3 kings, 3 dukes/other rank, and Ash who is quite impressive but has no desire to battle other demons for rank (and probably my favorite of the bunch, honestly).
This is a rather ambitious work that weaves together Judeo-Xtian elements with Voodoo, Santeria, witchcraft of many flavors and... does a pretty decent job of it. It felt organic and smooth. I wish more time had been spent on Josie's Voodou practice and her Loa, but what we did get was interesting and maybe those overlaps mentioned will be explored more in Rosa's story.
TBGtRR is at its heart a paranormal murder mystery with a lot of talk about baked goods. I may have given into the urge to bake and snarf down several muffins while reading this. They just paired so nicely together.
The romance isn't the most convincing because of the one thing I considered both the weakest and most interesting element: at least half this story isn't told from either of the MCs' points of view, and is, instead, from the other 3 witches' or 4 of the other demons'. This seems to have been done to acquaint us with the main cast—the Curse of The First Book in The Series—but it really detracted from the romance and didn't allow for enough "screen time" to make Josie and Bell's relationship believable. They barely had time to develop past their antagonistic relationship, and in the end So. No HEA on this one...not even really a HFN, which might count against it for some readers. For me, I didn't mind this aspect of the story and do not find it a deterrent from reading a story.
And who knows what the end of the series will bring?
I've found my first Moon book that has not sent me into giddy bouncing around after, but that doesn't mean I didn't enjoy it.
TBGtRR is quite different than Moon's RH works, especially in the sexy times department. This is one pretty clean book until 92% of the way in, so if you're looking for a steamy smutfest, this book is not it. Even when you get there, it's quite a bit less explicit than the previous works I've read. Still totally satisfying and enjoyable, but you'll be reading a lot of story before you get to the steamy parts. If you like more "cozy" romances, this might fit the bill better than some of her other works.
The premise of this series is pretty cute: 3 Good Witches with cozy jobs and magic and 1 of more...iffy persuasions protect the town of Sweat Pea, VA, and encourage the Goodness in the community around them. They've done a little too good of a job and have ended up on Hell's radar. Enter, a motorcycle club made up of 7 demons—3 kings, 3 dukes/other rank, and Ash who is quite impressive but has no desire to battle other demons for rank (and probably my favorite of the bunch, honestly).
This is a rather ambitious work that weaves together Judeo-Xtian elements with Voodoo, Santeria, witchcraft of many flavors and... does a pretty decent job of it. It felt organic and smooth. I wish more time had been spent on Josie's Voodou practice and her Loa, but what we did get was interesting and maybe those overlaps mentioned will be explored more in Rosa's story.
TBGtRR is at its heart a paranormal murder mystery with a lot of talk about baked goods. I may have given into the urge to bake and snarf down several muffins while reading this. They just paired so nicely together.
The romance isn't the most convincing because of the one thing I considered both the weakest and most interesting element: at least half this story isn't told from either of the MCs' points of view, and is, instead, from the other 3 witches' or 4 of the other demons'. This seems to have been done to acquaint us with the main cast—the Curse of The First Book in The Series—but it really detracted from the romance and didn't allow for enough "screen time" to make Josie and Bell's relationship believable. They barely had time to develop past their antagonistic relationship, and in the end So. No HEA on this one...not even really a HFN, which might count against it for some readers. For me, I didn't mind this aspect of the story and do not find it a deterrent from reading a story.
And who knows what the end of the series will bring?
September 26, 2022
3.5 As You Stare At Your Navel For Eternity Stars
The Baker's Guide to Risky Rituals is the first book in the Sweet Pea series by Kathryn Moon.
This book turned out far sweeter than I expected. Maybe that's just the charm of Sweet Pea coming to life? Bell, or rather King Beleth, surprised me.. Perhaps this is one demon whom the moment didn't allow a true representation of his power. But, even with all of the self assured talk surrounding his own power I don't suppose he ever truly lived up to the heights he professed. Standing before Papa Legba he seemed to have an existential crisis. And one small optimistic kitchen Witch worked her own magic and kindness to woo him away from his mission.
Imogen's chapter was mighty confusing. I re-read it three times and then gave up when I hoped i understood the basic premise... Which amounts to: she's not in any shape or form stable, and her mind is a very scary place. I do imagine her and Dantelion will have a reunion at some point in this series. While it seems Rosa and Pie are drawing towards one another, even as they resist. Ash is trying to work his magic against June's barriers, and if not receptive, she's not outright hostile. Which is an improvement....
I wonder if they town turning against Josie is just the other side of the coin when it comes to small town communities? Or if that's the Demons working their magic and adding a general air of malcontent to rile up and twist the good nature of the Sweet Pea citizens?
I'm pretty sure the only one that we truly have to worry about is Vinny/Vine.. he has been fighting Bell's leadership this entire time, and I don't see anyone possessing the vavavoom to wow this particular demon into turning against their evil cause. And I'm pretty sure Aim and Barbie are more of an item than they're given credit for...
The Baker's Guide to Risky Rituals is the first book in the Sweet Pea series by Kathryn Moon.
This book turned out far sweeter than I expected. Maybe that's just the charm of Sweet Pea coming to life? Bell, or rather King Beleth, surprised me.. Perhaps this is one demon whom the moment didn't allow a true representation of his power. But, even with all of the self assured talk surrounding his own power I don't suppose he ever truly lived up to the heights he professed. Standing before Papa Legba he seemed to have an existential crisis. And one small optimistic kitchen Witch worked her own magic and kindness to woo him away from his mission.
Imogen's chapter was mighty confusing. I re-read it three times and then gave up when I hoped i understood the basic premise... Which amounts to: she's not in any shape or form stable, and her mind is a very scary place. I do imagine her and Dantelion will have a reunion at some point in this series. While it seems Rosa and Pie are drawing towards one another, even as they resist. Ash is trying to work his magic against June's barriers, and if not receptive, she's not outright hostile. Which is an improvement....
I wonder if they town turning against Josie is just the other side of the coin when it comes to small town communities? Or if that's the Demons working their magic and adding a general air of malcontent to rile up and twist the good nature of the Sweet Pea citizens?
I'm pretty sure the only one that we truly have to worry about is Vinny/Vine.. he has been fighting Bell's leadership this entire time, and I don't see anyone possessing the vavavoom to wow this particular demon into turning against their evil cause. And I'm pretty sure Aim and Barbie are more of an item than they're given credit for...
May 31, 2024
I quite enjoyed The Baker’s Guide to Risky Rituals, but I think my expectations led me to think this story was something it was not. I was left surprised, but thoroughly entertained.
3.5/5 ⭐️ 1/5 🌶️
This was the tamest Moon novel I’ve read so far and I quite liked the slow burn. To be honest, though, I fully anticipated more sex in this book. Am I disappointed by it? No? But I definitely would have had clearer expectations and less confusion if I had known (just in comparison to her other titles).
However, I am really interested in the development of TBGTRR’s main couple, Josie and Beleth. The chemistry between the two was really fun. The enemies to lovers and forbidden aspects to their budding relationship was nicely done.
Unfortunately, I don’t think the hints towards the next books were done as well as I expected from Moon. I really wanted to know more about the other witches and demons, but I felt like it was a little glazed over. I would have loved to have a character list to keep all of the names and nicknames straight. However, I’m properly intrigued by all of them. I really wanted to know more. The little I learned kept me hooked and that’s why I was hoping for more. While reading, the insertions and amount of detail given to other characters’ parts of the plot led me to believe that Josie and Bell weren’t the only MCs even when they were the main focus of the plot. The execution would have me expecting a longer story to encompass all that was introduced. Thank goodness for sequels, but it just felt incomplete.
When finishing this book, I felt my interest thoroughly peaked, but still missing something. I think some of the book’s pacing and the chaos of the development of the paranormal dynamics kept it from being a seamless story. Still good! I definitely will be reading book 2 and the future books, but not my new all time favorite Moon title.
3.5/5 ⭐️ 1/5 🌶️
This was the tamest Moon novel I’ve read so far and I quite liked the slow burn. To be honest, though, I fully anticipated more sex in this book. Am I disappointed by it? No? But I definitely would have had clearer expectations and less confusion if I had known (just in comparison to her other titles).
However, I am really interested in the development of TBGTRR’s main couple, Josie and Beleth. The chemistry between the two was really fun. The enemies to lovers and forbidden aspects to their budding relationship was nicely done.
Unfortunately, I don’t think the hints towards the next books were done as well as I expected from Moon. I really wanted to know more about the other witches and demons, but I felt like it was a little glazed over. I would have loved to have a character list to keep all of the names and nicknames straight. However, I’m properly intrigued by all of them. I really wanted to know more. The little I learned kept me hooked and that’s why I was hoping for more. While reading, the insertions and amount of detail given to other characters’ parts of the plot led me to believe that Josie and Bell weren’t the only MCs even when they were the main focus of the plot. The execution would have me expecting a longer story to encompass all that was introduced. Thank goodness for sequels, but it just felt incomplete.
When finishing this book, I felt my interest thoroughly peaked, but still missing something. I think some of the book’s pacing and the chaos of the development of the paranormal dynamics kept it from being a seamless story. Still good! I definitely will be reading book 2 and the future books, but not my new all time favorite Moon title.
March 6, 2022
Not sure what to rate this. Kathryn Moon is better than most monster romance writers out there, but this was my least favorite one by her I've read so far (Rooksgrave, Sweetverse, Good Deeds, Princess's Chosen series.)
First, there is only one sexy scene, it involved just two people, and it was right by the end of the story. Lol, it was fine, but not what I expected, even with the description.
This reads a bit like a cozy mystery, which I suppose it's trying to, with the small town bakery, small town knitting store, etc. The vibe is really confusing though, as that mixes with a sexy, motorcycle club full of literal Hell demons. I will say that neither cozies nor sexy motorcycle clubs are my jam and normally I would never pick this up. I only did on the strength of the author.
There are waaay too many characters. The seven (is it eight?) demons get listed at the beginning, 1 by 1: Here is his full name, nickname, status/rank in hell, relationship to the head demon (have they worked together before?) a brief physical description of their human body, and their focus (lighting fires, seduction, etc.) I can't remember all of that. Will there be a pop quiz? Then the four witches (with differing backgrounds and magic type), who I guess find romance with four of the demons down the road. Then some of the Loa. Then all of the townsfolk who can act as suspects for the cozy murders... It's a short book. I'm going to remember the witches, the head demon, the jerk demon, the knitting demon, Papa Legba, and like, 6 of the townsfolk. I hope everyone else isn't important in the next book.
I didn't care about the mystery one bit.
I am a liiiiittle tempted to read the next book, but not sure I will pick it up.
I DO still highly recommend the author.
First, there is only one sexy scene, it involved just two people, and it was right by the end of the story. Lol, it was fine, but not what I expected, even with the description.
This reads a bit like a cozy mystery, which I suppose it's trying to, with the small town bakery, small town knitting store, etc. The vibe is really confusing though, as that mixes with a sexy, motorcycle club full of literal Hell demons. I will say that neither cozies nor sexy motorcycle clubs are my jam and normally I would never pick this up. I only did on the strength of the author.
There are waaay too many characters. The seven (is it eight?) demons get listed at the beginning, 1 by 1: Here is his full name, nickname, status/rank in hell, relationship to the head demon (have they worked together before?) a brief physical description of their human body, and their focus (lighting fires, seduction, etc.) I can't remember all of that. Will there be a pop quiz? Then the four witches (with differing backgrounds and magic type), who I guess find romance with four of the demons down the road. Then some of the Loa. Then all of the townsfolk who can act as suspects for the cozy murders... It's a short book. I'm going to remember the witches, the head demon, the jerk demon, the knitting demon, Papa Legba, and like, 6 of the townsfolk. I hope everyone else isn't important in the next book.
I didn't care about the mystery one bit.
I am a liiiiittle tempted to read the next book, but not sure I will pick it up.
I DO still highly recommend the author.
July 15, 2025
I'm not totally sure how to rate this. I like what's here, but it didn't seem like enough somehow.
This is the slowest burn of anything I've read by Moon.There's something a little muddled about the POV narration. It's not a very long book, and there are only two books in the series, but we're given so many perspectives, all third person, and the romance is between only two of them. It might have hit differently if there were several more books in the series. I don't know what Moon's methods are for writing, so there could still be more coming, but she's written a lot of books in a short amount of time and several of those involve full series' she's started and finished since this book came out.
Obviously, she should write what she wants, when she wants, but the incomplete series affects the feel of this lone book because it's written as if there is much more coming.
For all of that, I still enjoyed it. This has Moon's usual funny and sharp commentary. A man waiting on line in front of the MMC is described as "dressed in a business suit on a Saturday like an asshole." It's also an interesting exploration of what it actually means to be "good" or "evil," since the MMC, though a demon, is clearly capable of caring about others, and the "good" town encompasses many mean and prejudiced people. What exactly makes this town so good?
I actually got choked up when Josie was talking to Papa Legba. Moon is a genius as capturing and spreading emotions with very few words.
This is the slowest burn of anything I've read by Moon.There's something a little muddled about the POV narration. It's not a very long book, and there are only two books in the series, but we're given so many perspectives, all third person, and the romance is between only two of them. It might have hit differently if there were several more books in the series. I don't know what Moon's methods are for writing, so there could still be more coming, but she's written a lot of books in a short amount of time and several of those involve full series' she's started and finished since this book came out.
Obviously, she should write what she wants, when she wants, but the incomplete series affects the feel of this lone book because it's written as if there is much more coming.
For all of that, I still enjoyed it. This has Moon's usual funny and sharp commentary. A man waiting on line in front of the MMC is described as "dressed in a business suit on a Saturday like an asshole." It's also an interesting exploration of what it actually means to be "good" or "evil," since the MMC, though a demon, is clearly capable of caring about others, and the "good" town encompasses many mean and prejudiced people. What exactly makes this town so good?
I actually got choked up when Josie was talking to Papa Legba. Moon is a genius as capturing and spreading emotions with very few words.
June 26, 2022
There are some authors who have a style of writing that is so fun to read, whose plots suck you in completely, and these authors leave you thinking of the world they created even after you're done reading. That's Kathryn Moon for me, at least of her books I've read so far. Her writing style is always top notch, even when the plots might be pretty much blasphemous (loveddd Say Your Prayers) or when the heroine doesn't quite spark joy (I wasn't super enthused about Joanna in the Librarian Coven Series).
About this book: Absolutely lovely. I found it to be a light, fun, low-angst read, if you're not hung up on the fact that she's writing about demons 🙂. I read this pretty shortly after reading Say Your Prayers, and after reading about people getting bent over the altar in a church (and more!) in that book, this one felt quite tame 🤣. However, 4 stars for the missing threads in the plot - what happened to the developer? Did he leave town? Who was he working with? What about the cop that was thinking about Josie? Why were neither of them recruited for the demons work?
With the romance you can feel Bel's confusion, and you want to fight for and beside Josie. The book is written in a way that allows you to suspend disbelief long enough to focus on the romancelandia part of the story - lots of soft feelings for the characters. Would recommend, and would read again. And Chrissy with the smutty books as she tends bar? 10/10 side character.
About this book: Absolutely lovely. I found it to be a light, fun, low-angst read, if you're not hung up on the fact that she's writing about demons 🙂. I read this pretty shortly after reading Say Your Prayers, and after reading about people getting bent over the altar in a church (and more!) in that book, this one felt quite tame 🤣. However, 4 stars for the missing threads in the plot - what happened to the developer? Did he leave town? Who was he working with? What about the cop that was thinking about Josie? Why were neither of them recruited for the demons work?
With the romance you can feel Bel's confusion, and you want to fight for and beside Josie. The book is written in a way that allows you to suspend disbelief long enough to focus on the romancelandia part of the story - lots of soft feelings for the characters. Would recommend, and would read again. And Chrissy with the smutty books as she tends bar? 10/10 side character.
June 25, 2023
3.5 stars
I dedicated a lot of time in February to deciding which Kathryn Moon books I was actually going to order from BABE, but the reviews are going to ended up being kind of staggered throughout the year because of different projects. This was actually the first one of hers that I read so it seemed like a good one to talk about first. I picked this one up because it seemed less intimidating that some of her others to me—it’s a small town, witches coven/group of demons romance and that sounded fun. It definitely is fun—I really enjoyed both the coven of witches and their friendships, but also the dynamic between the demons and how the two group interacted. I think the only thing is that it’s sort of an ensemble cast—the book mostly follows Josie (the aforementioned baker) and Bell (a demon king) but there’s also occasionally a chapter from one of the other characters. It can get a little confusing with all that going on, and honestly, I didn’t really care about those budding romances yet—I wanted to hear about Josie and Bell first and then move onto the others. I’ll probably end up continuing the series, but we’ll see when I actually get the time.
I dedicated a lot of time in February to deciding which Kathryn Moon books I was actually going to order from BABE, but the reviews are going to ended up being kind of staggered throughout the year because of different projects. This was actually the first one of hers that I read so it seemed like a good one to talk about first. I picked this one up because it seemed less intimidating that some of her others to me—it’s a small town, witches coven/group of demons romance and that sounded fun. It definitely is fun—I really enjoyed both the coven of witches and their friendships, but also the dynamic between the demons and how the two group interacted. I think the only thing is that it’s sort of an ensemble cast—the book mostly follows Josie (the aforementioned baker) and Bell (a demon king) but there’s also occasionally a chapter from one of the other characters. It can get a little confusing with all that going on, and honestly, I didn’t really care about those budding romances yet—I wanted to hear about Josie and Bell first and then move onto the others. I’ll probably end up continuing the series, but we’ll see when I actually get the time.
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January 22, 2022I've been reading and enjoying some Kathryn Moon books lately, and this one was next on my list. It's a bit different from her other books, more of a cozy mystery with only one sex scene. It's also a bit slow at the start as she constructs the setting of the small town of Sweet Pea and its residents.
Sweet Pea is a beacon of good in the world. The coven of witches that live there basically does good magic. Josie has moved there from New Orleans and runs the local bakery.
When a group of demon bikers moves in with a mission to wipe out the inherent goodness of the town, Josie and her coven go on the alert. Bel, the leader of the demons, is attracted to Josie though he doesn't want to let her appeal distract him from his assignment. Josie is just as drawn to Bel despite her better instincts.
When murders occur in the town's nature preserve, it's the coven who are suspected. I admit I was surprised at who the murderer was. It's a pleasant and quick-to-read story, and readers who like cozy mysteries with some heat will like this introduction to the series.
Sweet Pea is a beacon of good in the world. The coven of witches that live there basically does good magic. Josie has moved there from New Orleans and runs the local bakery.
When a group of demon bikers moves in with a mission to wipe out the inherent goodness of the town, Josie and her coven go on the alert. Bel, the leader of the demons, is attracted to Josie though he doesn't want to let her appeal distract him from his assignment. Josie is just as drawn to Bel despite her better instincts.
When murders occur in the town's nature preserve, it's the coven who are suspected. I admit I was surprised at who the murderer was. It's a pleasant and quick-to-read story, and readers who like cozy mysteries with some heat will like this introduction to the series.
May 23, 2023
Josie is a witch who helps protect the small town where lives, and Bell is a literal King of Hell, who has been sent to Sweet Pea on a mission (along with several other demons), to corrupt it's patently good center. They clash, and ultimately come together with some nice chemistry and even more delicious food.
This is not a romance, and I knew that going in. Considering that and that I don't like mysteries as a rule, I enjoyed this a lot! Josie is the kind of kick-ass baking witch of a heroine that I love to read, and Bell is a literal demon with a soft middle that he shows Josie with little coaxing. I love to see a strong man bend for the woman he loves. And can we talk about how he just keeps finding reasons to go into the bakery and eat the food she makes. I love a baking MC, and Josie makes some absolute mouthwatering food that I can't wait to try making myself.
This is short, sweet, and filled with a little bit of everything, but mostly vibes. I'm excited about reading the next in the series.
This is not a romance, and I knew that going in. Considering that and that I don't like mysteries as a rule, I enjoyed this a lot! Josie is the kind of kick-ass baking witch of a heroine that I love to read, and Bell is a literal demon with a soft middle that he shows Josie with little coaxing. I love to see a strong man bend for the woman he loves. And can we talk about how he just keeps finding reasons to go into the bakery and eat the food she makes. I love a baking MC, and Josie makes some absolute mouthwatering food that I can't wait to try making myself.
This is short, sweet, and filled with a little bit of everything, but mostly vibes. I'm excited about reading the next in the series.
November 28, 2023
Very cute! I liked the distinct inner voices of the characters very much! And while I have no clue about Voodoo, I enjoyed this particular depiction of it.
“Warning” for future readers:
- There are multiple points of view from different characters, all relevant to the story (and adding to it, in my opinion).
- This continues in the second book which means this is not a “one couple per book” kind of series. Just as we heard from other characters in this book, we keep hearing from the main couple of book one in book two.
- Which makes sense as there is an overarching storyline that spans (presumably) the whole series, and every character adds to the plot.
From what I’ve seen of other reviews, some readers were disappointed by the above (which I don’t get, these are plus points in my opinion, but to each their own). I heartily recommend the book. I was quite pleasantly entertained by it for several hours and would probably read it again or listen to the audiobook if it becomes available. I hope the series continues!
“Warning” for future readers:
- There are multiple points of view from different characters, all relevant to the story (and adding to it, in my opinion).
- This continues in the second book which means this is not a “one couple per book” kind of series. Just as we heard from other characters in this book, we keep hearing from the main couple of book one in book two.
- Which makes sense as there is an overarching storyline that spans (presumably) the whole series, and every character adds to the plot.
From what I’ve seen of other reviews, some readers were disappointed by the above (which I don’t get, these are plus points in my opinion, but to each their own). I heartily recommend the book. I was quite pleasantly entertained by it for several hours and would probably read it again or listen to the audiobook if it becomes available. I hope the series continues!
September 25, 2025
I really considered DNFing this. I'm not really sure if it was just my mood or the beginning of the story, but I struggled hard to get into it & understand what was going on. It felt cluttered, there were too many characters & thoughts going on & I wasn't even honestly sure who the MCs were supposed to be.. It wasn't until I stopped the read entirely, switched & read a whole other book & then came back to it a day later and picked it back up in the middle of the story that I finally began to follow it, even then it took a moment & I think it was close to chapter 19 that it really began to finally pull me in & I found it a bit interesting. The end & conclusion of the story was nice & fun & thankfully coherent & only focused mainly on the 2 MCs but I decided I didn't have the energy or the want to really go back & do a whole reread to see if I could make headway with the beginning. It was just a kind of okay read so I won't be checking out the rest of the series.
June 7, 2021
This was an okay cozy mystery.
I have had this book for the longest time, when I was reading through again I realized I had actually made it initially upto half way but got bored of it, now I have completed the story coz June's book coming out is what drew me back.
I liked the fact that as per usual, K.M. does not write wilting flower heroines. I loved that Josie was logical, realistic and when it came to Bell their banter was funny.
I love that in the end, Bell hasn't really changed sides and Josie is 100% with her coven and they are at the "we are sleeping together, conflicted but lets see what will happen" stage.
I also loved that I guessed wrong on who the culprit was, but the killer's motive made sense.
l am honestly looking forward to Imogen's book out of all the ladies and the Bryne sisters full story. Looking forward to reading more in this series.
I have had this book for the longest time, when I was reading through again I realized I had actually made it initially upto half way but got bored of it, now I have completed the story coz June's book coming out is what drew me back.
I liked the fact that as per usual, K.M. does not write wilting flower heroines. I loved that Josie was logical, realistic and when it came to Bell their banter was funny.
I love that in the end, Bell hasn't really changed sides and Josie is 100% with her coven and they are at the "we are sleeping together, conflicted but lets see what will happen" stage.
I also loved that I guessed wrong on who the culprit was, but the killer's motive made sense.
l am honestly looking forward to Imogen's book out of all the ladies and the Bryne sisters full story. Looking forward to reading more in this series.
December 8, 2021
I can safely say this is the best book Kathryn Moon has ever written.
I know that she is well known for her super fast burn, highly smutty, mostly reverse harem books and that they are super popular but I really hope she continues with this series.
I’ve said in my reviews of her books before: she can write. The talent is obvious and that is why I continue to read her books even when I sometimes find them cringe worthy in the sex department. This book had witches, pastries, demons, motorcycles, and sexy magic…what else could a person want? Oh, yes, that’s right: likable characters and a cool small town setting!
Seriously, I already read most of her books just because she has such an interesting imagination, but I would definitely read all of her books if they were like this one. Fun, flirty, spicy, and easy to read in a few hours. Just awesome.
I know that she is well known for her super fast burn, highly smutty, mostly reverse harem books and that they are super popular but I really hope she continues with this series.
I’ve said in my reviews of her books before: she can write. The talent is obvious and that is why I continue to read her books even when I sometimes find them cringe worthy in the sex department. This book had witches, pastries, demons, motorcycles, and sexy magic…what else could a person want? Oh, yes, that’s right: likable characters and a cool small town setting!
Seriously, I already read most of her books just because she has such an interesting imagination, but I would definitely read all of her books if they were like this one. Fun, flirty, spicy, and easy to read in a few hours. Just awesome.
January 12, 2025
Book #2 of 2025 done! I read The Baker's Guide to Risky Rituals by Kathryn Moon which is beginning to become one of my favorite romance authors. I bought this book when I met her at toledolibrary Romance-con a couple months ago and I've been excited to start it since. It's about a small town called Sweet Pea where 4 witches live and work and one day a bikers gang filled with demons that were sent there to ruin the nice town but then there's a murder in the town and the whole town starts to look at the witches blaming them for them but is it the witches, the demons or something else?
I liked the different types of characters that Kathryn can write. They are all women centric and the women are never whiny, weak, dependent on a man they can do a lot by themselves or with their groups of other women. Also, this one is not at all as spicy as the Good Deeds was but it had just enough for me.
I liked the different types of characters that Kathryn can write. They are all women centric and the women are never whiny, weak, dependent on a man they can do a lot by themselves or with their groups of other women. Also, this one is not at all as spicy as the Good Deeds was but it had just enough for me.
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