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The Dowser #2
Trinkets, Treasures, and Other Bloody Magic
Three months ago, I lost my foster sister, Sienna, to the darkness. As in blood magic and chaos and general mayhem. No one saw it until it was too late, but I should have. Now, I have a wounded heart and soul that I can’t even reveal to anyone around me, because I’m supposed to hate Sienna with the fiery passion of the justified. And I do. I just wish I didn’t feel so lost without her, so unsure of the path I thought I had carved for myself, and so outclassed by the powerful Adepts constantly by my side these days. I’m not even sure if they’re with me for my own protection or because my shiny new powers are rare and valuable. Assuming I ever figure out who or what I am, and how my magic actually works. Even chocolate can’t save the day every time … just most of the time. At least I’ve got that going for me.Trinkets, Treasures, and Other Bloody Magic is the second book in the Dowser series, which is set in the same universe as the Oracle, Reconstructionist, Amplifier, Archivist, and Misfits of the Adept Universe series. While it is not necessary to read all the series, in order to avoid spoilers the ideal reading order of the Adept Universe begins with Cupcakes, Trinkets, and Other Deadly Magic (Dowser 1).
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 15, 2013
476 people are currently reading
1009 people want to read
About the author
Meghan Ciana Doidge
47 books1,294 followersMeghan Ciana Doidge writes tales of true love conquering all, even death. Though sometimes the love is elusive, the vampires and werewolves come out to play in the daylight, and bloody mayhem ensues.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 289 reviews
July 28, 2015
I really enjoy this series - after loving the first book Cupcakes, Trinkets, and Other Deadly Magic, I was very excited to begin this one. Like a piece of chocolate I tried to savor it and make it last as long as possible. :-P Sadly now I'm done and have to wait for book 3...
Without giving too much away, this second book has Jade getting to know her new companions and witchy skills better while trying to cope with the emotional aftermath of the events from the first book, without becoming too haunted by them.
Jade s family dynamic is intriguing and it was interesting getting to know them better, particularly Jade's mother. I'd like to get a better understanding of the other characters a little more in the next book - Desmond's humorless alpha male schtick makes him not especially lovable, and Kett's aloof coldness makes him seem a little unknowable. However, I suspect this is all part of a plan to let us gradually get to know them and still leave a little mystery behind. Can we trust Kett? What is Desmond thinking? I look forward to finding out!
No doubt in the next book we can expect to once again be glued to our Kindle screens reading about more mayhem, misery, and magic, as well as a few revelations. Oh, and cupcakes of course!
Speaking of cupcakes, I of course had to bake some cupcakes in honor of the book while I was reading it. Classic chocolate with coffee buttercream frosting. I think I will call them "Pep in a Cup." :-P
Without giving too much away, this second book has Jade getting to know her new companions and witchy skills better while trying to cope with the emotional aftermath of the events from the first book, without becoming too haunted by them.
Jade s family dynamic is intriguing and it was interesting getting to know them better, particularly Jade's mother. I'd like to get a better understanding of the other characters a little more in the next book - Desmond's humorless alpha male schtick makes him not especially lovable, and Kett's aloof coldness makes him seem a little unknowable. However, I suspect this is all part of a plan to let us gradually get to know them and still leave a little mystery behind. Can we trust Kett? What is Desmond thinking? I look forward to finding out!
No doubt in the next book we can expect to once again be glued to our Kindle screens reading about more mayhem, misery, and magic, as well as a few revelations. Oh, and cupcakes of course!
Speaking of cupcakes, I of course had to bake some cupcakes in honor of the book while I was reading it. Classic chocolate with coffee buttercream frosting. I think I will call them "Pep in a Cup." :-P
Read
May 27, 2021I enjoy the heck out of reading these books, but I have issues.
CW: Native American/First Nations stereotyping, microaggressions, etc.
CW: Native American/First Nations stereotyping, microaggressions, etc.
November 23, 2025
I'm really glad I didn't get so frustrated that I bailed at the ignorance of the FMC in book 1, because this played out how I hoped it would - Jade, now having a clearer idea of the world and how much has been kept from her, is a lot more cautious and determined to learn quickly.
I'm not sure what to think of her gran. If things are what Jade thinks, her gran is a loathesome asshole. But I've learned that Jade is an unreliable narrator (which I find unusual in books written in the third person) - she's got a lot of self-worth and abandonment issues, and what she assumes people are thinking or feeling about her...it's not always true. So I'm going to withhold judgement on Gran.
I really do like her mom, though. I think Scarlett was in a shitty situation, and let herself get bullied by her mom to do what was best for protecting Jade. And I think Scarlett seriously regrets it now. I want to see their relationship firm up (Jade and get mom) now that Jade has better understanding of what happened and why.
Really enjoying it. I think there could be some more subtlety in the plotting - I knew who daddy would end up being the very moment the race of magical creatures were introduced early in this book, the same way I felt like Sienna was majorly transparent in the first book - but it doesn't hurt my enjoyment. A book doesn't have to be filled with twists for it to be a fun ride.
Re-read Nov 2025
This one is so much stronger than the first one. Nothing new to add, except a thought on a spoiler:
I'm not sure what to think of her gran. If things are what Jade thinks, her gran is a loathesome asshole. But I've learned that Jade is an unreliable narrator (which I find unusual in books written in the third person) - she's got a lot of self-worth and abandonment issues, and what she assumes people are thinking or feeling about her...it's not always true. So I'm going to withhold judgement on Gran.
I really do like her mom, though. I think Scarlett was in a shitty situation, and let herself get bullied by her mom to do what was best for protecting Jade. And I think Scarlett seriously regrets it now. I want to see their relationship firm up (Jade and get mom) now that Jade has better understanding of what happened and why.
Really enjoying it. I think there could be some more subtlety in the plotting - I knew who daddy would end up being the very moment the race of magical creatures were introduced early in this book, the same way I felt like Sienna was majorly transparent in the first book - but it doesn't hurt my enjoyment. A book doesn't have to be filled with twists for it to be a fun ride.
Re-read Nov 2025
This one is so much stronger than the first one. Nothing new to add, except a thought on a spoiler:
March 25, 2019
4 Stars
Review:
Good writing, a solid plot, and lots of supernatural characters I'm liking more and more as I get to know them. I enjoyed this sequel! This one also upped the intensity a bit, I think. And the reader even got to find out what Jade's other half is (the non-witch half). Overall another enjoyable book in this urban fantasy series!
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Review:
Good writing, a solid plot, and lots of supernatural characters I'm liking more and more as I get to know them. I enjoyed this sequel! This one also upped the intensity a bit, I think. And the reader even got to find out what Jade's other half is (the non-witch half). Overall another enjoyable book in this urban fantasy series!
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
January 27, 2014
SERIOUUSLY! ok, so I immediately emailed the author, and told her I read the last sentence and said OMG!!! LOL this is one soooooo good. I thought I loved the first one, but I am in LUST, LOVE, and total OBSESSION with book two! YES! I would recommend reading book one first, as you’ll think Jade is some crazy chick, which she is, but she has reason. LOL AND you’ll get to read all about her yummy cupcakes, and HAWT pieces, and crazy family. It’s the best!
Jade is now trying to figure out her magic, her place in the supernatural world, who her father is, and what the hell she is supposed to do with herself. Not to mention, she is surrounded by people who she wants to trust, but isn’t sure if she should, and then when an unexpected visitor shows up and plops herself right in the middle of the chaos, things get out of hand. The vampire wants to use her to find more magical people. The werewolf… I think he just maybe wants to “use her”- and dude I’m all for that- as they a debt to each other. Her mom and grandma, well they have been hiding so very much from her, for so long, that I don’t know if I’d be as nice to them as she is. She also just wants to survive, now that she is on the “radar” of some supernaturals.
Jade is no longer just a simple witch, she’s a dowser, she can literally find magic, and know about it. She can do thinks no one else can, including make magic, not just use it, but literally put magic into things that aren’t magical. Jade is making new friends, and new enemies. She is having a hard time coping with some things that happened in book one, and she’s trying to help out the family of one of the “bad guys”. She has a lot going on. BUT… Kandy is still my second favorite character. You see a little bit of her in book one, but now you are getting to know her. I LOVE her. Kett is the damn vamper that I just wanna smack a little bit. I still think he is going to be bad news, and it’s going to blow Jade’s mind. And Mr werewolf McGrowly… he is HAWT… I want him. And I hope is also isn’t going to seriously hurt Jade. I hope that Jade learns to stand up for herself again, because I think she is letting too many walk on her in her quest to find out about her powers. Hell, I’d be throwing fire balls at people LOL
The ending…. I don’t know what to say. I am still a little shocked. Like, WOAH BABY!!! This ending is totally rocking, and I can’t wait, REALLY CAN’T WAIT for so much more! I am always grateful to read anything by this author. She is magnificent. GIMME GIMME GIMME MORE! ASAP. :) And for the rest of you, stop sitting around and twinkling your thumbs and get this series LIKE NOW! 5 EXCEPTIONALLY MAGNIFICENT MAGICAL PAWS!
Jade is now trying to figure out her magic, her place in the supernatural world, who her father is, and what the hell she is supposed to do with herself. Not to mention, she is surrounded by people who she wants to trust, but isn’t sure if she should, and then when an unexpected visitor shows up and plops herself right in the middle of the chaos, things get out of hand. The vampire wants to use her to find more magical people. The werewolf… I think he just maybe wants to “use her”- and dude I’m all for that- as they a debt to each other. Her mom and grandma, well they have been hiding so very much from her, for so long, that I don’t know if I’d be as nice to them as she is. She also just wants to survive, now that she is on the “radar” of some supernaturals.
Jade is no longer just a simple witch, she’s a dowser, she can literally find magic, and know about it. She can do thinks no one else can, including make magic, not just use it, but literally put magic into things that aren’t magical. Jade is making new friends, and new enemies. She is having a hard time coping with some things that happened in book one, and she’s trying to help out the family of one of the “bad guys”. She has a lot going on. BUT… Kandy is still my second favorite character. You see a little bit of her in book one, but now you are getting to know her. I LOVE her. Kett is the damn vamper that I just wanna smack a little bit. I still think he is going to be bad news, and it’s going to blow Jade’s mind. And Mr werewolf McGrowly… he is HAWT… I want him. And I hope is also isn’t going to seriously hurt Jade. I hope that Jade learns to stand up for herself again, because I think she is letting too many walk on her in her quest to find out about her powers. Hell, I’d be throwing fire balls at people LOL
The ending…. I don’t know what to say. I am still a little shocked. Like, WOAH BABY!!! This ending is totally rocking, and I can’t wait, REALLY CAN’T WAIT for so much more! I am always grateful to read anything by this author. She is magnificent. GIMME GIMME GIMME MORE! ASAP. :) And for the rest of you, stop sitting around and twinkling your thumbs and get this series LIKE NOW! 5 EXCEPTIONALLY MAGNIFICENT MAGICAL PAWS!
March 22, 2019
4 Stars... Attempting to cope with the death of her sister while adjusting to her powerful abilities, Jade Godfrey does was she does best... eats lots and lots of chocolate .... What is a girl and the owner of a successful bakery to do?... Jade is learning to trust the powerful Adepts surrounding and protecting? her, but the manipulations and power plays as well as life debts seem to keep mucking up the waters; especially where one Mr. McGrowly is concerned... Oh, and there is the continued mystery of the other half of her parentage to consider... When an old enemy makes herself known, Jade must confront all of her fears and misgivings in order to protect her friends and family; what she discovers on the other side will forever change her future... Another action packed adventure right from the start and never slowing to the very end... Jade is an interesting character that fluctuates from fiercely independent and full of sass and willfulness to insecure and naïve; this conundrum made it challenging for me to pinpoint her personality, but throughout this read it became clear the impact of her mother and grandmother in shaping the woman she now is... I am eager to see how this character will grow and change especially with the revelations found at the end of this read.:)
Read
May 28, 2021I inhaled the first one and was looking forward to the rest of the series. Until I got to this line:
"By the time I fell, I was surrounded by four more native people. First Nations actually, but I didn't feel like being politically correct in this moment."
Hard pass.
November 24, 2020
Round up to 4.5 stars.
October 14, 2023
I'm really enjoying this book. Actually, it's a little addicted.
It reminds me of the 'Good to the Last Death' series by Robyn Peterman. In the series of unfortunate events, kind of way, and humour. But a slower burning romance. I still don't know who, if anyone she will get to play with!
No, wait, more Lizzie Grace! The witch with unknown power thought to be less than and run a bakery. Jade and Lizzie would have so much in common and would no doubt be great friends.
Great banter between characters. Lol moments, grief 😔 moments, bad ass woman all the time, internal dialogue that again makes you laugh as she gets distracted and cupcakes 🧁... no smut, a bit of spice and chocolate, though 😋
The unknown half of who Jade is still hangs above her head. The discovery of what has been kept from her and the realisation of why is sad, but not heart stopping sad, just a aww sad kitten like moment. And that's got to be because her Gran while a huge part of her life is still quite a stand offish character. In fact, in this book, the characters of FMC mum (Scarlet) are built on more, and we learn more about Desmond and Candy, too, as we visit their patch.
Warning, we lost someone who I was hoping would be a familiar side character, and that did hurt a little. Again, the impact could have been more heartretching but was still sad.
The end of this book was a nice twist, although I did get a little confused....is Desmond more than like Jade is? And Vampire's made from demons, no surprise there. It is just the fact we find out what Jade is before we get some smut!
Then again, so far, no one deserves our Jade. She deserves better and a HEA for her services of making great bakes!!!
4.2 stars
It reminds me of the 'Good to the Last Death' series by Robyn Peterman. In the series of unfortunate events, kind of way, and humour. But a slower burning romance. I still don't know who, if anyone she will get to play with!
No, wait, more Lizzie Grace! The witch with unknown power thought to be less than and run a bakery. Jade and Lizzie would have so much in common and would no doubt be great friends.
Great banter between characters. Lol moments, grief 😔 moments, bad ass woman all the time, internal dialogue that again makes you laugh as she gets distracted and cupcakes 🧁... no smut, a bit of spice and chocolate, though 😋
The unknown half of who Jade is still hangs above her head. The discovery of what has been kept from her and the realisation of why is sad, but not heart stopping sad, just a aww sad kitten like moment. And that's got to be because her Gran while a huge part of her life is still quite a stand offish character. In fact, in this book, the characters of FMC mum (Scarlet) are built on more, and we learn more about Desmond and Candy, too, as we visit their patch.
Warning, we lost someone who I was hoping would be a familiar side character, and that did hurt a little. Again, the impact could have been more heartretching but was still sad.
The end of this book was a nice twist, although I did get a little confused....is Desmond more than like Jade is? And Vampire's made from demons, no surprise there. It is just the fact we find out what Jade is before we get some smut!
Then again, so far, no one deserves our Jade. She deserves better and a HEA for her services of making great bakes!!!
4.2 stars
December 5, 2013
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to author Meghan Ciana Diodge.)
This is book 2 in the ‘Dowser’ series.
Sienna has gone, but Jade is far from out of trouble.
After being asked to view a ‘collection’, Jade and her crew set off on a little road trip, taking plenty of cupcakes with them, although things are never as straightforward as they seem.
Is Sienna really gone for good? What exactly is Jade? And how long can a girl go without chocolate?
This was an action-packed urban fantasy, and I still really love the cupcakes!
Jade was a strong character in this book, and she wasn’t afraid to take the bull by the horns. She made a point of trying to protect herself, and those she loved, even if it meant wrestling bears! I loved her hidden knife and how she used it, and I loved how much she loves chocolate. Can’t help but love a girl who loves chocolate as much as I do!
The storyline in this was pretty-action packed, and there was plenty of excitement. We once again had a lot of different supernaturals turning up in this story, and the cupcakes weren’t forgotten, I really want to try those dark chocolate cupcakes with blueberry buttercream frosting now!
The ending of this one was also quite interesting, as we were left with Jade finding out some very important information with regards to her heritage, that was really quite surprising and clever. It will be interesting to see what happens to Jade from here onwards.
Overall; good urban fantasy sequel, recommended for fans of Karen Chance.
7 out of 10.
This is book 2 in the ‘Dowser’ series.
Sienna has gone, but Jade is far from out of trouble.
After being asked to view a ‘collection’, Jade and her crew set off on a little road trip, taking plenty of cupcakes with them, although things are never as straightforward as they seem.
Is Sienna really gone for good? What exactly is Jade? And how long can a girl go without chocolate?
This was an action-packed urban fantasy, and I still really love the cupcakes!
Jade was a strong character in this book, and she wasn’t afraid to take the bull by the horns. She made a point of trying to protect herself, and those she loved, even if it meant wrestling bears! I loved her hidden knife and how she used it, and I loved how much she loves chocolate. Can’t help but love a girl who loves chocolate as much as I do!
The storyline in this was pretty-action packed, and there was plenty of excitement. We once again had a lot of different supernaturals turning up in this story, and the cupcakes weren’t forgotten, I really want to try those dark chocolate cupcakes with blueberry buttercream frosting now!
The ending of this one was also quite interesting, as we were left with Jade finding out some very important information with regards to her heritage, that was really quite surprising and clever. It will be interesting to see what happens to Jade from here onwards.
Overall; good urban fantasy sequel, recommended for fans of Karen Chance.
7 out of 10.
April 19, 2017
This might have been a four-star book, but I thought the end was kind of rushed and somewhat silly. At that point the fluffy cupcake cover didn't seem quite so out of place.
Up until that point however, I was sufficiently engrossed. There was plenty of action, great supporting characters - one of whom was thought to be dead but reappeared enticingly evil - a budding attraction, and a nasty demon.
Finally we are given some answers regarding Jade's father and the mysterious unknown half of her heritage, but in that revelation I found myself with even more questions. How was it possible that the twisted Sienna was able to travel through the portal unscathed and unstopped if that's where the guardians hang out? And where had Jade's father been this whole time and why hadn't he tried to contact her before now, especially as he seemed so pleased to finally meet her? And even if these answers will be forthcoming in the upcoming installments, I still have trouble believing that these goofy acting, riddle speaking seeming crackpots are guardians and that Jade's surfer looking father is actually a warrior. It felt like I stepped out of a somewhat dark and serious urban fantasy setting and into a cartoon. The dialogue in that section was bad, especially Jade's oh so flippant "Hi Dad" which actually made me cringe and roll my eyes.
Still, all complaints aside, I'm interested enough in these characters to continue reading their story. I just really hope that in the next book, the guardians are written in such a way that I can take them seriously.
Up until that point however, I was sufficiently engrossed. There was plenty of action, great supporting characters - one of whom was thought to be dead but reappeared enticingly evil - a budding attraction, and a nasty demon.
Finally we are given some answers regarding Jade's father and the mysterious unknown half of her heritage, but in that revelation I found myself with even more questions. How was it possible that the twisted Sienna was able to travel through the portal unscathed and unstopped if that's where the guardians hang out? And where had Jade's father been this whole time and why hadn't he tried to contact her before now, especially as he seemed so pleased to finally meet her? And even if these answers will be forthcoming in the upcoming installments, I still have trouble believing that these goofy acting, riddle speaking seeming crackpots are guardians and that Jade's surfer looking father is actually a warrior. It felt like I stepped out of a somewhat dark and serious urban fantasy setting and into a cartoon. The dialogue in that section was bad, especially Jade's oh so flippant "Hi Dad" which actually made me cringe and roll my eyes.
Still, all complaints aside, I'm interested enough in these characters to continue reading their story. I just really hope that in the next book, the guardians are written in such a way that I can take them seriously.
January 6, 2019
The straw that broke the camel’s back .. ‘Oh, I’m so worried about this young person I feel so responsible for, she's captured, could be being tortured, could be dead ..oh look, he’s hot, let’s stop mid-search and kiss right now, let’s really get it on...”. The get togethers could easily have been written in the “after” of any rescue. They’re in places together later, could be in the after-adrenaline rush, but nooo, let’s make it absurd and have them get hot and bothered while lives they care about could be lost due to their uncontrollable urges.
I’m disappointed as if the author could improve working romance into her story (protagonist doesn’t have to be in non-stop drool over any male body within eyeshot and could be a decent person who gets on with rescues first, sex second) she’d have a much betters story. Oh, and our main character is self centered and whiney.
First in series was Kindle unlimited. Had to pay for the second (not on KU as I write this).
I’m disappointed as if the author could improve working romance into her story (protagonist doesn’t have to be in non-stop drool over any male body within eyeshot and could be a decent person who gets on with rescues first, sex second) she’d have a much betters story. Oh, and our main character is self centered and whiney.
First in series was Kindle unlimited. Had to pay for the second (not on KU as I write this).
did-not-finish
January 4, 2024DNF at 7%.
I enjoyed the first book but this one, I cannot follow! It feels like utter nonsense. I know I'm trying to listen to it while I fall asleep but still
I enjoyed the first book but this one, I cannot follow! It feels like utter nonsense. I know I'm trying to listen to it while I fall asleep but still
June 15, 2020
This second book of the Dowser series is as good or maybe even a little better than the first book. See my review for book 1 for more information on the basic premise. The adventure is more exciting as there is less information gathering like in the first book. Definitely read these in order as the first 3 books act like a trilogy, even though the series continues beyond 3 books.
December 18, 2013
If you haven’t read Cupcakes, Trinkets, and Other Deadly Magic (The Dowser Series) WHY NOT??? IT IS WONDERFUL! So, read Cupcakes and then dive right into Trinkets.
It’s like chocolate – you can’t STOP
Looking back at my review of Cupcakes, the first in The Dowser Series, I realize that I talked more about the cupcake recipes that Meagan came up with. Well, the cupcakes sound awesome so who can blame me? But I never really said anything about the story other than how much I enjoyed it. And I should have, because the story is wonderful.
Jade is the daughter of a witch (father unknown), granddaughter of one of the strongest witches on the West Coast, and foster sister of yet another witch. Best friends all their lives, Jade trusts and loves her sister Sienna with all her heart. Happy in her life, running her bakery, “Cake In A Cup” and making ‘trinkets’ from bits and bobs infused with the magic of their former owners, Jade has a happy, calm, and peaceful life. Well, until the vampire shows up staring through her bakery window. And then, her whole life changes. Dead werewolves, blood magic, and other horrors change and twist Jade’s life. Yes, some of the changes are good, as she begins to grow into her strength, to become what she is meant to be. However, there is deep and cutting pain that must be absorbed, betrayals and hatred and horrors. Jade’s life will never be the same. But she grows, adapts, and begins the journey to her new life as an unknown power in the magical world.
You want to believe that there’s one relationship in life that’s beyond betrayal. A relationship that’s beyond that kind of hurt. And there isn’t.- Caleb Carr
There can be no deep disappointment where there is not deep love. – Martin Luther King, Jr.
Now, in the second edition, Trinkets, Treasures, and Other Bloody Magic (The Dowser Series 2). Jade continues to grow into her new Dowser powers. A magical ‘finder’ much like a water dowser, Jade tracks and finds magical objects – and apparently, also magical people. The story opens in the incredible Squamish forest of the Northwest outside of Vancouver as Jade enjoys her second to last piece of single-origin Madagascar chocolate and contemplates which of her two teachers, Kett the ancient vampire, or Kandy, the werewolf, will try to jump her this time as they teach her how to protect herself from the world of magic creatures. What they find in the forest is strange and new (to Jade) and proves her powers are even more than she first believed. Here starts a tale of yet more growth and change for Jade. And pain that she had only recently thought could not be more overwhelming.
More betrayal overwhelms her life in this edition, and yet there is also hope and new friendships, new discoveries about herself and her powers. Doidge weaves a tale with layers and depths not found in many of the other urban fantasy series on the market today. The beliefs that Jade has built her life upon are ripped out from under her feet, and nothing will ever be quite the same again. But as been said, and proven, over millennia, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger – and Jade is coming into her strength.
There were some things I didn’t like about the book – Jade is much too forgiving of people who would dismiss and demean her, both as a person and a magic user. But that seems to be a theme with ‘family’ issues, where those who you thought loved you and believed in you truly don’t believe you are strong at all, who have no faith in your abilities . . . I wouldn’t be as forgiving as Jade was. However, I have a feeling that Jade will show that person that she is stronger, and “more” than anyone ever could have believed.
The end was shocking, and wonderful, and heartfelt. It has me on the edge of my seat waiting for the next volume. I highly recommend that you read Cupcakes first, then Trinkets. They can be read stand-alone, but you will enjoy it more if you read both. Then, when you are done and waiting for the next, I highly recommend that you read Meghan’s other works, especially Spirit Binder (The Cascadian Chronicles #1). The second of that series is another book I am drooling to get my hands on.
Again, highly recommended to anyone who loves Urban Fantasy, strong women characters, and beautiful writing.
It’s like chocolate – you can’t STOP
Looking back at my review of Cupcakes, the first in The Dowser Series, I realize that I talked more about the cupcake recipes that Meagan came up with. Well, the cupcakes sound awesome so who can blame me? But I never really said anything about the story other than how much I enjoyed it. And I should have, because the story is wonderful.
Jade is the daughter of a witch (father unknown), granddaughter of one of the strongest witches on the West Coast, and foster sister of yet another witch. Best friends all their lives, Jade trusts and loves her sister Sienna with all her heart. Happy in her life, running her bakery, “Cake In A Cup” and making ‘trinkets’ from bits and bobs infused with the magic of their former owners, Jade has a happy, calm, and peaceful life. Well, until the vampire shows up staring through her bakery window. And then, her whole life changes. Dead werewolves, blood magic, and other horrors change and twist Jade’s life. Yes, some of the changes are good, as she begins to grow into her strength, to become what she is meant to be. However, there is deep and cutting pain that must be absorbed, betrayals and hatred and horrors. Jade’s life will never be the same. But she grows, adapts, and begins the journey to her new life as an unknown power in the magical world.
You want to believe that there’s one relationship in life that’s beyond betrayal. A relationship that’s beyond that kind of hurt. And there isn’t.- Caleb Carr
There can be no deep disappointment where there is not deep love. – Martin Luther King, Jr.
Now, in the second edition, Trinkets, Treasures, and Other Bloody Magic (The Dowser Series 2). Jade continues to grow into her new Dowser powers. A magical ‘finder’ much like a water dowser, Jade tracks and finds magical objects – and apparently, also magical people. The story opens in the incredible Squamish forest of the Northwest outside of Vancouver as Jade enjoys her second to last piece of single-origin Madagascar chocolate and contemplates which of her two teachers, Kett the ancient vampire, or Kandy, the werewolf, will try to jump her this time as they teach her how to protect herself from the world of magic creatures. What they find in the forest is strange and new (to Jade) and proves her powers are even more than she first believed. Here starts a tale of yet more growth and change for Jade. And pain that she had only recently thought could not be more overwhelming.
More betrayal overwhelms her life in this edition, and yet there is also hope and new friendships, new discoveries about herself and her powers. Doidge weaves a tale with layers and depths not found in many of the other urban fantasy series on the market today. The beliefs that Jade has built her life upon are ripped out from under her feet, and nothing will ever be quite the same again. But as been said, and proven, over millennia, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger – and Jade is coming into her strength.
There were some things I didn’t like about the book – Jade is much too forgiving of people who would dismiss and demean her, both as a person and a magic user. But that seems to be a theme with ‘family’ issues, where those who you thought loved you and believed in you truly don’t believe you are strong at all, who have no faith in your abilities . . . I wouldn’t be as forgiving as Jade was. However, I have a feeling that Jade will show that person that she is stronger, and “more” than anyone ever could have believed.
The end was shocking, and wonderful, and heartfelt. It has me on the edge of my seat waiting for the next volume. I highly recommend that you read Cupcakes first, then Trinkets. They can be read stand-alone, but you will enjoy it more if you read both. Then, when you are done and waiting for the next, I highly recommend that you read Meghan’s other works, especially Spirit Binder (The Cascadian Chronicles #1). The second of that series is another book I am drooling to get my hands on.
Again, highly recommended to anyone who loves Urban Fantasy, strong women characters, and beautiful writing.
May 5, 2020
2020: 5 Stars🌟
Reread
’Ah, families. So full of loyalty, love, and half-truths.
First of all I don’t know what I was thinking when I read this book for the first time but I don’t think Desmond is a jackass. He’s actually quite kind. The way he looks after his pack and protects Jade can be nothing less than chivalrous. Don’t get me wrong I would still like to see Kett and Jade together however I have to admit Desmond in this one was nothing short of glorious.
’“Yes, of course. I understand the attempt to settle the bond. If this doesn’t work, my offer still stands.”’
I’m looking forward to getting into the next one as there are only two more to reread before I’m caught up and then I can get on with finishing the series.
’Great, the vampire was attempting a joke. I was fairly certain that was one of the signs of the apocalypse.’
I loved getting to know all the powerful friends Jade has made along her journey as well as seeing her progress through her training. In this one we get to find out who Jades father is, which I’m only gonna say one thing about because you know🤷🏻♀️ spoilers. Which is, I do not know how I didn’t see that coming and this is a reread!!
’“It would be a shame for you to die. I would do anything in my power to save you. Don’t make me save you, Jade.”’
Time to start the next book😍
2015: 5 Stars🌟
Urgh-.-
Still no romance between Kett and Jade apart from the odd intimate moment.
This sucker needs her happy ending! Okay I need to calm down. There's still two books to go. They have to get together in one of them. Right? Right?!
Anyway other than that Desmond is a total jackass!
The author has built the world and the characters up so well that I feel like I can almost see them, she is truly talented.
Reread
’Ah, families. So full of loyalty, love, and half-truths.
First of all I don’t know what I was thinking when I read this book for the first time but I don’t think Desmond is a jackass. He’s actually quite kind. The way he looks after his pack and protects Jade can be nothing less than chivalrous. Don’t get me wrong I would still like to see Kett and Jade together however I have to admit Desmond in this one was nothing short of glorious.
’“Yes, of course. I understand the attempt to settle the bond. If this doesn’t work, my offer still stands.”’
I’m looking forward to getting into the next one as there are only two more to reread before I’m caught up and then I can get on with finishing the series.
’Great, the vampire was attempting a joke. I was fairly certain that was one of the signs of the apocalypse.’
I loved getting to know all the powerful friends Jade has made along her journey as well as seeing her progress through her training. In this one we get to find out who Jades father is, which I’m only gonna say one thing about because you know🤷🏻♀️ spoilers. Which is, I do not know how I didn’t see that coming and this is a reread!!
’“It would be a shame for you to die. I would do anything in my power to save you. Don’t make me save you, Jade.”’
Time to start the next book😍
2015: 5 Stars🌟
Urgh-.-
Still no romance between Kett and Jade apart from the odd intimate moment.
This sucker needs her happy ending! Okay I need to calm down. There's still two books to go. They have to get together in one of them. Right? Right?!
Anyway other than that Desmond is a total jackass!
The author has built the world and the characters up so well that I feel like I can almost see them, she is truly talented.
May 23, 2019
Three months ago, I lost my foster sister, Sienna, to the darkness. As in blood magic and chaos and general mayhem. No one saw it until it was too late, but I should have. Now, I have a wounded heart and soul that I can’t even reveal to anyone around me, because I’m supposed to hate Sienna with the fiery passion of the justified. And I do. I just wish I didn’t feel so lost without her, so unsure of the path I thought I had carved for myself, and so outclassed by the powerful Adepts constantly by my side these days. I’m not even sure if they’re with me for my own protection or because my shiny new powers are rare and valuable. Assuming I ever figure out who or what I am, and how my magic actually works.
Even chocolate can’t save the day every time … just most of the time. At least I’ve got that going for me
Heather's Notes
I didn't like the very ending of this book. It was abrupt and not very informative. It also left a lot of things up in the air. I would not call it a cliffhanger, but it came really close. I so hate cliffhangers. Jade was a bit annoying. I felt like she way to conflicted about someone that tried to kill her (more than once). She sometimes didn't feel very realistic. I felt like she sometimes act a certain way, because the author needed her too instead of how she would have really acted. Still it wasn't awful, and I may read the next book, not sure.
Even chocolate can’t save the day every time … just most of the time. At least I’ve got that going for me
Heather's Notes
I didn't like the very ending of this book. It was abrupt and not very informative. It also left a lot of things up in the air. I would not call it a cliffhanger, but it came really close. I so hate cliffhangers. Jade was a bit annoying. I felt like she way to conflicted about someone that tried to kill her (more than once). She sometimes didn't feel very realistic. I felt like she sometimes act a certain way, because the author needed her too instead of how she would have really acted. Still it wasn't awful, and I may read the next book, not sure.
February 23, 2015
Okay, so we know who is the bad person was and that they had fully turned to the dark side because they desired more power but we found out that Jade is more and that the people who loved her most kept this from her. But is not lost as her family has surrounded her in support. We are introduced to more characters specifically Rusty's sister Mory who wants Jade to take her to where it all happened and a Blackwell a male witch who likes to collect things wants Jade to look at something. Everybody has mixed views; Gran the shifter Desmond does not want Jade to go but her mom and Kett the vamp does. In the end she does and Jade's world is rocked again on its axis. Another great book by this author. Looking forward to book 3.
December 21, 2015
The good this series did for me was getting me a bit out of my reading slump .. It was light and interesting & not very heavy on mythology that you have to think about it..
Jade in this book impressed me with how she faced her trouble face on. She was very relatable. I did like how she was still emotionally confused by the Sienna Situation. A lot happened as well that left me confused like Desmond appearance. He was there for a second and then gone. Also the whole "Jade/Kett" relationship. Are they going to be an item. The narration seems to hint at that idea.
Overall, I liked this book sadly not much as the first. The first one was more quirky and this was more serious. Anyways, It is still enjoyable.
Jade in this book impressed me with how she faced her trouble face on. She was very relatable. I did like how she was still emotionally confused by the Sienna Situation. A lot happened as well that left me confused like Desmond appearance. He was there for a second and then gone. Also the whole "Jade/Kett" relationship. Are they going to be an item. The narration seems to hint at that idea.
Overall, I liked this book sadly not much as the first. The first one was more quirky and this was more serious. Anyways, It is still enjoyable.
January 16, 2016
A much more interesting book than the first one, I must say. The story did took a turn I honestly hadn't expected but I was pleased by it. We got to connect more with the characters of the book and see their personality. Nothing much to say about it.
June 21, 2017
I really enjoyed the first book so I bought the Books 1-3 Box Set. It has been almost 2 years since I read the first book though, so I found myself really lost for the first half of the book. So much refers to the first book, which I only remember bits and pieces of. The ending is definitely left open and now that I'm interested in the series again, I need to get to the next book soon before I forget it again! :-)
I do enjoy Jade's quirkiness and I want to see more of her with Desmond and even what is to happen with Kett. And of course, there is quite the interesting twist at the end about her heritage. Didn't see that coming. :-D
I do enjoy Jade's quirkiness and I want to see more of her with Desmond and even what is to happen with Kett. And of course, there is quite the interesting twist at the end about her heritage. Didn't see that coming. :-D
September 29, 2024
Ok, so the MFC was a little better in this one. She was not actively fighting against learning the truth about her magic at least, but ... Sigh ... She still drove me nuts!
Book one: lack of knowledge discovery is used as the main plot device /propeller
Book two: my morals prevent me from killing a serial killer that has tried to kill me and my friends multiple times, allowing the same bad guy to attempt again and again (ughhhhhhhhhhh)
** Find a new plot mechanism that is not straight up obnoxious or stupid please for the love of everything!!!
I'm now trying to think of another main reading pet peeve of mine that might be used in book 3.
Maybe betrayal? A love triangle? Ooo I know ... What about mind control or amnesia.
I really need to decide if this series is worth continuing. I mean, the story is intriguing and I'm always a fan of a hidden destiny book, but these things may not outweigh the level of annoyance I'm feeling for the MFC.
Book one: lack of knowledge discovery is used as the main plot device /propeller
Book two: my morals prevent me from killing a serial killer that has tried to kill me and my friends multiple times, allowing the same bad guy to attempt again and again (ughhhhhhhhhhh)
** Find a new plot mechanism that is not straight up obnoxious or stupid please for the love of everything!!!
I'm now trying to think of another main reading pet peeve of mine that might be used in book 3.
Maybe betrayal? A love triangle? Ooo I know ... What about mind control or amnesia.
I really need to decide if this series is worth continuing. I mean, the story is intriguing and I'm always a fan of a hidden destiny book, but these things may not outweigh the level of annoyance I'm feeling for the MFC.
March 5, 2017
It's been about a year since I read the first book, and I was worried be that I wouldn't be able to get back into the story. But that wasn't a problem at all. I really enjoyed this book and I am so excited that I finally know what Jade's other half is, I thought this book was going to end with out revealing it. I can't wait to read book three!!!
February 21, 2019
This series is fast becoming one of my favourites and the audiobook narrations are just fantastic - exactly what I need for a 2-hour commute.
The series so far has been filled with 3D believable characters and although Jade can sometimes be a moron (her words), the almost stream of consciousness writing is hilarious, making Jade one of the most likeable protagonists I've come across for a while.
It also helps that the story is high paced and breezes from book to book without a hitch.
The series so far has been filled with 3D believable characters and although Jade can sometimes be a moron (her words), the almost stream of consciousness writing is hilarious, making Jade one of the most likeable protagonists I've come across for a while.
It also helps that the story is high paced and breezes from book to book without a hitch.
May 22, 2019
Not quite as naive and simplistic as the first one - a nice tone is beginning to develop.
April 24, 2022
Cliffhanger ending, which is something I dislike.
January 21, 2025
As book one, really obvious with too many clues and hints, but utterly fun! I really enjoyed all the magic system details! Oh snap that ending! 🤭🤭🤭
December 28, 2022
It has gotten to the point where I cannot get over the things that annoy me because there are too many of them.
1)The dialogues: there is not 1 open, normal conversation in the book. Everything is done either through jokes or sarcasm and this is the furthest there is from realistic. People are suppose to collaborate but don't communicate.
2) Desmond and Jade relationship comes out of nowhere and is so ridiculous in its development. They barely looked at one another in the first book and suddenly they are all over one another. He keeps acting like an ass but we are supposed to ship him for some reason, or accept that she is not stupid in wanting to pursue things ? Lust is strong in those 2 but nothing feels even remotely believable.
3) How are we suppose to accept that Jade and Sienna had a loving relationship? All we ever could see was Sienna being a bitch and Jade putting up with it. This relationship felt more like abuse from the get go and that was before Sienna tried to kill Jade. Yet Jade keeps pining for and sometimes almost defending "her sister" (aka:"She was sentenced without a deffense"). I know that grief is complicated but when your sister murders 4 people and tries to off you, you have to stop trying to defend her. Especially if she has just tried to kill you again.
4) Physical descriptions are cliché/ridiculous/repetitive: Where to begin ? Aside from the classical big male/tiny female cliché, we also had necklaces that would reach the collarbone of a young adult but reach the waste of a 15 year-old? Or the fact that it is repeated over and over again that Jade has blue indigo eyes and blond curly hair (we get it!). My point is, it's either repetitive or grotesque. Not a great combo for a strong story.
5)Jade is annoying. She is made to appear lovable but she is just annoying and immature. Her internal dialogues are supposed to be witty but they very quickly become redundant and break the pace of the story. Additionally, Jade is unable to concentrate if there is either a well-built man or a piece of chocolate in a 2m radius. I don't blamer her family when they decide to assign her bodyguards or hide things from her because she is just dumb.
The universe has potential but unfortunately, the writing does not live up to said potential.
1)The dialogues: there is not 1 open, normal conversation in the book. Everything is done either through jokes or sarcasm and this is the furthest there is from realistic. People are suppose to collaborate but don't communicate.
2) Desmond and Jade relationship comes out of nowhere and is so ridiculous in its development. They barely looked at one another in the first book and suddenly they are all over one another. He keeps acting like an ass but we are supposed to ship him for some reason, or accept that she is not stupid in wanting to pursue things ? Lust is strong in those 2 but nothing feels even remotely believable.
3) How are we suppose to accept that Jade and Sienna had a loving relationship? All we ever could see was Sienna being a bitch and Jade putting up with it. This relationship felt more like abuse from the get go and that was before Sienna tried to kill Jade. Yet Jade keeps pining for and sometimes almost defending "her sister" (aka:"She was sentenced without a deffense"). I know that grief is complicated but when your sister murders 4 people and tries to off you, you have to stop trying to defend her. Especially if she has just tried to kill you again.
4) Physical descriptions are cliché/ridiculous/repetitive: Where to begin ? Aside from the classical big male/tiny female cliché, we also had necklaces that would reach the collarbone of a young adult but reach the waste of a 15 year-old? Or the fact that it is repeated over and over again that Jade has blue indigo eyes and blond curly hair (we get it!). My point is, it's either repetitive or grotesque. Not a great combo for a strong story.
5)Jade is annoying. She is made to appear lovable but she is just annoying and immature. Her internal dialogues are supposed to be witty but they very quickly become redundant and break the pace of the story. Additionally, Jade is unable to concentrate if there is either a well-built man or a piece of chocolate in a 2m radius. I don't blamer her family when they decide to assign her bodyguards or hide things from her because she is just dumb.
The universe has potential but unfortunately, the writing does not live up to said potential.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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