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Witch Way Librarian Mysteries #6
The Witch Is Back
Just when residents thought life was settling down in small-town Wilfred, Oregon, poison pen letters begin to arrive. Who can celebrate the retreat’s success or the opening of The Wallingford Guesthouse when secrets and less than neighborly transgressions are aired? Librarian Josie Way is lucky to be a witch, since the spellbound books know plenty about murders . . . Surprised by an unexpected visit from her oddly pensive mother, Josie hopes to distract her with a visit to the Aerie, the clifftop manor where the recently passed Reverend Clarence Duffy lived. Inside, however, Josie hears hissed warnings from boxes of the preacher’s old books—and once home, from the library’s detective novels. When Wilfred residents start to receive threatening letters the next day, the witch-in-training is determined to uncover the missives’ author . . . But not before the dead body of one of the reverend’s sons is discovered at the bottom of the cliff. Unsettled by the Wilfred residents’ crumbling friendships—and by her mother’s reason for her visit—Josie has her hands full of dilemmas. Sheriff Sam is no help—he laughs off the letter he receives. Then Josie finds one addressed to her, stating that the author “knows her secret.” Josie must trust her fledgling sorcery—as well as a bit of magic from a surprising source—to uncover the poison pen before anyone else receives a deadly delivery . . .
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 26, 2024
100 people are currently reading
3684 people want to read
About the author
Angela M. Sanders
19 books573 followersAngela M. Sanders is the author of the Witch Way Librarian cozy mysteries and the Joanna Hayworth vintage clothing mysteries . As Clover Tate, she wrote the Kite Shop cozy mysteries.
Before turning author, spent more than a decade as a congressional investigator and also wrote magazine articles on perfume, food, and local personalities. When Angela isn’t at her laptop, she’s often rummaging in thrift shops, lounging with a vintage crime novel with her shelter cats Squeaky and Bitsy.
Sign up for her newsletter at www.angelamsanders.com and follow her on Instagram at @angela.m.sanders
Before turning author, spent more than a decade as a congressional investigator and also wrote magazine articles on perfume, food, and local personalities. When Angela isn’t at her laptop, she’s often rummaging in thrift shops, lounging with a vintage crime novel with her shelter cats Squeaky and Bitsy.
Sign up for her newsletter at www.angelamsanders.com and follow her on Instagram at @angela.m.sanders
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
November 21, 2024
The Witch is Back
by Angela M. Sanders brings magic, small-town drama, suspense, and death to the sixth and latest book in the Witch Way Librarian Mysteries series set in fictional Wilfred, Oregon. Librarian Josie Way is a relatively novice witch who gets energy, warnings, and helpful hints from books. When her mother suddenly calls from the airport from Josie to pick her up, it only the beginning of an eventful week. Soon poison pen letters are being delivered to the small town’s residents.
Hoping to distract her mother, Josie takes her to an estate sale, where the recently passed Reverend Clarence Duffy lived. Inside the house, Josie hears warnings from the boxed books that have been sold. Tasked with finding the author of the disturbing letters, Josie starts her investigation, but soon, a dead body is found at the bottom of a cliff. Was it an accident or murder?
Of course, things don’t always go smoothly. With the letters unsettling the town’s residents, friendships start to crumble and everyone tends to look at everyone else with suspicion.
Josie has a strong sense of family and community. She loves books and feels compelled to seek justice. The secondary characters were a mixed lot of the unusual as well as ever-day folks that you could meet in any small town. While their depth varied, it felt adequate for their roles in this story. Of the secondary characters, Rodney the cat stole the show.
This was a fun, relaxing, and entertaining read that I did not want to put down. The writing style is warm and friendly and the world building was well done. I was able to vividly see the picturesque library, the town, and the people of Wilford. I also enjoyed the way the historical aspects of the town, as well as some romance, were woven seamlessly into the story. Multiple crimes and danger elevate the suspense level. However, the poison pen author was a little too easy to discern. My only other quibbles are that there are a couple of cliffhangers that I hoped would be resolved in this novel.
Overall, this was a story that quickly drew me into Josie’s world. It was filled with the challenges of suspicions, secrets, a death, ominous feelings, a wildfire, and more. I recommend the Witch Way Librarian Mysteries series to those who enjoy the genre. If you share Josie’s and my love of books and libraries, this may be the next book for you. I’m a fan of the series and am looking forward to reading the next book.
Kensington Publishing – Kensington Cozies and Angela M. Sanders provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for November 26, 2024. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.07 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Hoping to distract her mother, Josie takes her to an estate sale, where the recently passed Reverend Clarence Duffy lived. Inside the house, Josie hears warnings from the boxed books that have been sold. Tasked with finding the author of the disturbing letters, Josie starts her investigation, but soon, a dead body is found at the bottom of a cliff. Was it an accident or murder?
Of course, things don’t always go smoothly. With the letters unsettling the town’s residents, friendships start to crumble and everyone tends to look at everyone else with suspicion.
Josie has a strong sense of family and community. She loves books and feels compelled to seek justice. The secondary characters were a mixed lot of the unusual as well as ever-day folks that you could meet in any small town. While their depth varied, it felt adequate for their roles in this story. Of the secondary characters, Rodney the cat stole the show.
This was a fun, relaxing, and entertaining read that I did not want to put down. The writing style is warm and friendly and the world building was well done. I was able to vividly see the picturesque library, the town, and the people of Wilford. I also enjoyed the way the historical aspects of the town, as well as some romance, were woven seamlessly into the story. Multiple crimes and danger elevate the suspense level. However, the poison pen author was a little too easy to discern. My only other quibbles are that there are a couple of cliffhangers that I hoped would be resolved in this novel.
Overall, this was a story that quickly drew me into Josie’s world. It was filled with the challenges of suspicions, secrets, a death, ominous feelings, a wildfire, and more. I recommend the Witch Way Librarian Mysteries series to those who enjoy the genre. If you share Josie’s and my love of books and libraries, this may be the next book for you. I’m a fan of the series and am looking forward to reading the next book.
Kensington Publishing – Kensington Cozies and Angela M. Sanders provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for November 26, 2024. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.07 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
December 18, 2024
I love this series although I’m annoyed with no one having air-conditioning and complaining about it all the time. The story, the mystery and the magic was wonderful. I wasn’t thrilled with the ending, but I can see why the author did it.
November 23, 2024
If you like cozy mysteries about books with a little witchy paranormal thrown in then you will like this book. I read this book not knowing it was part of a series, it’s book number six of the Witch Way Librarian Mysteries. I had no trouble jumping in at book six and figuring out what was going on. I would like to go back and start from the beginning because I did enjoy this book. I thought her magic was very interesting, books spoke to her (seems fitting for a librarian). I thought that was an interesting take on a witch that I hadn’t read before.
I thought the mystery was interesting. Suspicious letters start arriving to people in town revealing hidden secrets about them. Josie receives a letter saying “I know your secret” and she becomes worried. When the body of the reverend's son is found dead you have to wonder are the letters and the murder connected? Who is taunting the townspeople? With the help of Josie’s magical mom and her cat Rodney they tackle this mystery.
Thank you Kensington Publishing for an advanced copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
I thought the mystery was interesting. Suspicious letters start arriving to people in town revealing hidden secrets about them. Josie receives a letter saying “I know your secret” and she becomes worried. When the body of the reverend's son is found dead you have to wonder are the letters and the murder connected? Who is taunting the townspeople? With the help of Josie’s magical mom and her cat Rodney they tackle this mystery.
Thank you Kensington Publishing for an advanced copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
November 26, 2024
Book # 6 in one of my FAVORITE cozy mystery series and it was just as delightful as ever. I loved how we got to meet Josie's mom and learn more about her history as someone who was suppressing her magic and maybe finally coming to terms with it. The mystery was so intriguing (I guessed one piece and was SHOCKED by the other). Josie finally talks to Sam about being a witch.... how does it go?! YOU'LL HAVE TO READ TO FIND OUT! Needless to say I am DYING for the next book. I also love how there are some long term plots that are starting to reveal themselves, like who/what is trying to interfere with Josie's magic?!
I already miss Josie and this eclectic, cozy town and library!
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy; my thoughts and review are my own.
I already miss Josie and this eclectic, cozy town and library!
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy; my thoughts and review are my own.
January 3, 2025
4.25⭐
Love this series, it's an auto-read for me. Figured out 60% of the plot pretty early though. Like the characters and really enjoyed the interplay between Josie and her mother.
Love this series, it's an auto-read for me. Figured out 60% of the plot pretty early though. Like the characters and really enjoyed the interplay between Josie and her mother.
May 29, 2025
Things are looking up in Wilfred, Oregon. The library is busy as usual, the retreat center is hosting a yodeling competition and a new guest house has just opened. Josie's mom has finally come for a visit, albeit unexpectedly. She seems to be in a mood, not her usual critical self and Josie is puzzled by her mother's behavior. They head off to the old preacher's estate sale in Marlin Hill, at his home, known as the Aerie. It's an architectural marvel but way out in the middle of nowhere. Josie is hoping to score some books for the library but the books give off a menacing tone and she can't get out of there fast enough. Even her mother senses it. Then Mom drops a bombshell- she has left Dad and asked him for a divorce! Josie is deeply distressed by this news and tries to put her family back together again. At the estate sale open house, Josie's mom, Nora, makes a new acquaintance, Emilio Landau, a handsome, older art appraiser. Nora seems quite smitten with Emilio Landau and Josie is not happy. All thoughts of personal drama are set aside when someone starts sending poison pen letters to Wilfredians and Josie is tasked with unmasking the writer! Then, the preacher's son, Benjamin, recently returned from New York, dies after falling over the railing of the Aerie. The death is presumed a drunken accident but his wife, Lucy, is positive it was not. When the toxicology results come in, Sam learns there was no alcohol in Benjamin's body but you could smell it on him... leading Sam to conclude this was, indeed a set up! Josie can't leave it to the sheriff's department when Lucy is so obviously distraught. She's convinced the letters and the murder are connected. Find the writer, find the killer. (She's hoping it's Emilio Landau). Meanwhile, something wonky is happening with Josie's magic and her communications with Sam are being blocked. She fears something more sinister may be happening but who could be behind it and why?
It's always delightful to visit Wilfred and I was really into this story. For once I was more into the witchy side of the story. I'm pretty sure I figured out who Josie's nemesis is, her Moriarty, but why and for what purpose, I don't yet know. We better get answers in the next book. I also thought it was a little late for Josie to tell Sam about her magic. The way she didn't was too awkward and bound to upset and confuse him. That, too, got dragged out too long and we need answers. The next book has a LOT to cover. The poison pen letter plot was WAY too obvious. When the blackmail letters arrived It was so painfully obvious and awkward and unnecessary. Someone should have figured it out sooner, especially Darla and Patty. The murder plot was not connected in my mind so the reveal came as a bit of a surprise. I really thought the murderer was someone else. It seemed even a little obvious but I was wrong. The reveal came out of left field and didn't seem to fit with anything else. I noted Josie's mom reveals her feelings about her mother's witchcraft to Josie twice, almost verbatim and the second time Josie acts like this is all new information. This author needs a better editor to dial back the plots and keep information consistent and not repeat it.
The characters are wonderful as always although we don't see a lot of them. Buffy and Thor are my favorites. They've stepped up the hustling game and I found them annoying in this book. They're usually quite charming. I blame it on their new friend. Ellie Wallingford, the 13-year-old daughter of the guest house owners, is a baton twirler and dying to attend majorette camp this summer but her parents won't (can't) pay so she's out and about in town doing her routines to raise money. She causes chaos because she's not quite as talented as she thinks she is once she adds more than one baton in the mix. She's SUPER bratty and I know 13 year old girls are supposed to be bratty but she sounds much younger than she is. I thought she was closer to Buffy's age from her speech and how angry she was with Darla. Ellie apparently is in high school or maybe they have a combined middle and high school? Buffy and Thor never seem to go to school so we're unaware of Wilfred's school system- if they even have one. I bet school is in Forest Grove and/or combined with other small towns. Anyway, Ellie is awful and she seems to be leading Buffy and Thor's moneymaking schemes now.
The only other residents we see a lot of are Patty and one scene with Ruth Littlefield. Patty is deeply upset by the poison pen letter she receives. Something happened to her relationship with her sister and now they won't even look at each other. How sad! Patty is very sweet and earnest. She always means well. She's willing to reveal the contents of her letter but Darla won't talk. Dear Montgomery is a sweetheart, always willing to try to mend fences. He's willing to talk to Josie if it will help Darla. Roz acts like a cranky you know what every time she's on page. That house can't be built fast enough. Ruth Littlefield is a force of nature. You can't stop her. She's loud and bossy but it comes in handy. She takes charge and forces everyone to see a way out of their problem. It was quite a smart plan and not one I would have thought of. Of course we do see Sam. He's sweet and crazy about Josie. She loves him just as much but someone is trying to interfere in their relationship. They communicate well, usually, except for Josie's secret but someone wants them NOT communicating- whether for romantic purposes or nefarious purposes, I don't know yet. Are they targeting Josie's happiness or Sam's job?
Meeting Josie's mom is interesting. At first I didn't like her much but then she got involved in the mystery. Watching Josie and her mom investigate together and explore their magic together was great. I like how Josie becomes the teacher, guiding her mom. Josie's dad goes beyond the absent minded professor stereotype. He's clueless about anything that isn't medieval French! He lives for his work and after meeting him, I sympathize with Josie's mom. He can't use the microwave on his own! Josie's mom had a weird reaction in the Emporium and again when she met Babe Hamilton, the linen seller. She just brushed it off but something odd happened, she didn't seem to remember something that could be important. Josie likes Babe and thinks they're becoming friends. I don't trust Babe. I think there's something off about her. Plus Ian is too obvious! He's just a bookseller and charming guy. Lalena likes him but I don't know if she's a good judge of character. She thinks her love life is finally turning around. We'll see.
The new characters are involved in the mystery. Reverend Clarence Duffy was a hellfire and brimstone preacher who sounds like he was a madman. He was ill in his last months and probably drive his son Adam crazy with demands. This was not a kind and loving man. His wife died long ago and I was wondering if this story was inspired by Northanger Abbey. It wasn't. No one was there when his wife died. Her death was a terrible tragedy. She was light and laughter and the glue that held the family together. After her death, the once optimistic preacher turned sour and mean. He began preaching doom and gloom and saw sin everywhere. What happened and why? He sounds like he was an awful father and if his son Adam hastened the preacher's demise I don't think I'd investigate that if I were Josie. Josie likes Adam Duffy. He's kind-hearted and gentle, teaches music at the high school and is badly in need of a vacation according to the books. Adam was the dutiful son who stayed to take care of his father. Adam's brother Benjamin went off to New York to pursue a music career. Benjamin got involved with drugs and alcohol but he was supposedly clean and sober now, ready to return home and make amends. He wanted to stay at the Aerie and live there enjoying small town country life. His wife Lucy does not seem too interested. I'd say she downright LOATHES the house, the deserted landscape and can't wait to return to New York. I think she may have killed her husband.
Emilio Landau, a sexy senior, is suspicious in Josie's opinion because her mom is getting cozy with the stranger. He doesn't have much of an online presence and that worries Josie. She's looking for any excuse to keep her mom from this man. Emilio is a smooth talker and I'm sure he's up to something. He REALLY wants to buy the Aerie and he believes in being ruthless in business. He gave Ellie Wallingford some bad advice based on what works for him. Did he kill Benjamin to get his hands on the house?
This was the most intriguing volume to date but cozy mysteries aren't supposed to end on cliffhangers. They're supposed to be written so new readers can pick up a book anywhere in the series and not be lost. I feel that with this magical nemesis plot and the Sam romance drama, this series is breaking the rules and that's not nice to readers!
It's always delightful to visit Wilfred and I was really into this story. For once I was more into the witchy side of the story. I'm pretty sure I figured out who Josie's nemesis is, her Moriarty, but why and for what purpose, I don't yet know. We better get answers in the next book. I also thought it was a little late for Josie to tell Sam about her magic. The way she didn't was too awkward and bound to upset and confuse him. That, too, got dragged out too long and we need answers. The next book has a LOT to cover. The poison pen letter plot was WAY too obvious. When the blackmail letters arrived It was so painfully obvious and awkward and unnecessary. Someone should have figured it out sooner, especially Darla and Patty. The murder plot was not connected in my mind so the reveal came as a bit of a surprise. I really thought the murderer was someone else. It seemed even a little obvious but I was wrong. The reveal came out of left field and didn't seem to fit with anything else. I noted Josie's mom reveals her feelings about her mother's witchcraft to Josie twice, almost verbatim and the second time Josie acts like this is all new information. This author needs a better editor to dial back the plots and keep information consistent and not repeat it.
The characters are wonderful as always although we don't see a lot of them. Buffy and Thor are my favorites. They've stepped up the hustling game and I found them annoying in this book. They're usually quite charming. I blame it on their new friend. Ellie Wallingford, the 13-year-old daughter of the guest house owners, is a baton twirler and dying to attend majorette camp this summer but her parents won't (can't) pay so she's out and about in town doing her routines to raise money. She causes chaos because she's not quite as talented as she thinks she is once she adds more than one baton in the mix. She's SUPER bratty and I know 13 year old girls are supposed to be bratty but she sounds much younger than she is. I thought she was closer to Buffy's age from her speech and how angry she was with Darla. Ellie apparently is in high school or maybe they have a combined middle and high school? Buffy and Thor never seem to go to school so we're unaware of Wilfred's school system- if they even have one. I bet school is in Forest Grove and/or combined with other small towns. Anyway, Ellie is awful and she seems to be leading Buffy and Thor's moneymaking schemes now.
The only other residents we see a lot of are Patty and one scene with Ruth Littlefield. Patty is deeply upset by the poison pen letter she receives. Something happened to her relationship with her sister and now they won't even look at each other. How sad! Patty is very sweet and earnest. She always means well. She's willing to reveal the contents of her letter but Darla won't talk. Dear Montgomery is a sweetheart, always willing to try to mend fences. He's willing to talk to Josie if it will help Darla. Roz acts like a cranky you know what every time she's on page. That house can't be built fast enough. Ruth Littlefield is a force of nature. You can't stop her. She's loud and bossy but it comes in handy. She takes charge and forces everyone to see a way out of their problem. It was quite a smart plan and not one I would have thought of. Of course we do see Sam. He's sweet and crazy about Josie. She loves him just as much but someone is trying to interfere in their relationship. They communicate well, usually, except for Josie's secret but someone wants them NOT communicating- whether for romantic purposes or nefarious purposes, I don't know yet. Are they targeting Josie's happiness or Sam's job?
Meeting Josie's mom is interesting. At first I didn't like her much but then she got involved in the mystery. Watching Josie and her mom investigate together and explore their magic together was great. I like how Josie becomes the teacher, guiding her mom. Josie's dad goes beyond the absent minded professor stereotype. He's clueless about anything that isn't medieval French! He lives for his work and after meeting him, I sympathize with Josie's mom. He can't use the microwave on his own! Josie's mom had a weird reaction in the Emporium and again when she met Babe Hamilton, the linen seller. She just brushed it off but something odd happened, she didn't seem to remember something that could be important. Josie likes Babe and thinks they're becoming friends. I don't trust Babe. I think there's something off about her. Plus Ian is too obvious! He's just a bookseller and charming guy. Lalena likes him but I don't know if she's a good judge of character. She thinks her love life is finally turning around. We'll see.
The new characters are involved in the mystery. Reverend Clarence Duffy was a hellfire and brimstone preacher who sounds like he was a madman. He was ill in his last months and probably drive his son Adam crazy with demands. This was not a kind and loving man. His wife died long ago and I was wondering if this story was inspired by Northanger Abbey. It wasn't. No one was there when his wife died. Her death was a terrible tragedy. She was light and laughter and the glue that held the family together. After her death, the once optimistic preacher turned sour and mean. He began preaching doom and gloom and saw sin everywhere. What happened and why? He sounds like he was an awful father and if his son Adam hastened the preacher's demise I don't think I'd investigate that if I were Josie. Josie likes Adam Duffy. He's kind-hearted and gentle, teaches music at the high school and is badly in need of a vacation according to the books. Adam was the dutiful son who stayed to take care of his father. Adam's brother Benjamin went off to New York to pursue a music career. Benjamin got involved with drugs and alcohol but he was supposedly clean and sober now, ready to return home and make amends. He wanted to stay at the Aerie and live there enjoying small town country life. His wife Lucy does not seem too interested. I'd say she downright LOATHES the house, the deserted landscape and can't wait to return to New York. I think she may have killed her husband.
Emilio Landau, a sexy senior, is suspicious in Josie's opinion because her mom is getting cozy with the stranger. He doesn't have much of an online presence and that worries Josie. She's looking for any excuse to keep her mom from this man. Emilio is a smooth talker and I'm sure he's up to something. He REALLY wants to buy the Aerie and he believes in being ruthless in business. He gave Ellie Wallingford some bad advice based on what works for him. Did he kill Benjamin to get his hands on the house?
This was the most intriguing volume to date but cozy mysteries aren't supposed to end on cliffhangers. They're supposed to be written so new readers can pick up a book anywhere in the series and not be lost. I feel that with this magical nemesis plot and the Sam romance drama, this series is breaking the rules and that's not nice to readers!
August 11, 2024
#TheWitchIsBack #NetGalley is the 6th book in this series that I've grown quite fond of.
Josie Way is a librarian, her love of books shines in each story, but it's the way the books communicate to her that intrigues me the most.
Josie relationship with Sam, the sheriff, is growing strong, and she's finally accepting her role as a strong witch.
Josie gets a big surprise when her mother shows up at her door, unexpectedly, with her own news.
Before long, things take a turn for the worse, Josie's mom has an admirer, residents are getting poison pen letters, and someone commits murder.
This book kept me on the edge of my seat, and I enjoyed it very much.
I'm happy to recommend this series to other readers.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
4.5 Star Review
Josie Way is a librarian, her love of books shines in each story, but it's the way the books communicate to her that intrigues me the most.
Josie relationship with Sam, the sheriff, is growing strong, and she's finally accepting her role as a strong witch.
Josie gets a big surprise when her mother shows up at her door, unexpectedly, with her own news.
Before long, things take a turn for the worse, Josie's mom has an admirer, residents are getting poison pen letters, and someone commits murder.
This book kept me on the edge of my seat, and I enjoyed it very much.
I'm happy to recommend this series to other readers.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
4.5 Star Review
December 5, 2024
Another fun visit with Josie and the residents of Wilfred, Oregon. I love how Josie has become an integral part of the community and the way they come together to figure out who is writing the poisoned pen letters but it should have been obvious from the start and the way that was dragged on drove me batty! Also, Josie finally, FINALLY realizes that she has to tell Sam about her powers but again, it is so drawn out… it’s been 6 books! Also, there was one questionable comment about Mother Teresa that didn’t sit well with me. The mystery was well-paced and there were quite a few red herrings to keep you guessing. This series has almost redeemed itself since the last one and I am hoping the next one gets it back on track.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for an honest review.
November 28, 2024
After the huge disappointment of book 5, I was very pleasantly surprised and happy that book 6 seems to have gotten the series back on track. Angela and Sam are committed but she still has to disclose her witchy heritage, her mom comes to visit and something seems off there. In the midst of all that, the towns people start receiving poison letters that culminate in a murder. Angela is tasked with unmasking the writer and ultimately the writer and the identity of the killer are both surprises.
The plot moves along steadily, at times it was a bit to slow, but not enough for me do ding the book. The story is engaging, it was nice to see Angela working with her mother and to see her mom rediscovering her own magical heritage. This is a book about the harm that secrets can do, family, honesty, and forgiveness.
That cliffhanger though 😩😩😩
The plot moves along steadily, at times it was a bit to slow, but not enough for me do ding the book. The story is engaging, it was nice to see Angela working with her mother and to see her mom rediscovering her own magical heritage. This is a book about the harm that secrets can do, family, honesty, and forgiveness.
That cliffhanger though 😩😩😩
January 13, 2025
Another great installment that left me eager for more. I can’t wait for the next one!
November 24, 2025
The Witch is Back, book 6 in the Witch Way Librarian Mysteries
Josie Way is back at it again with another mystery in Wilfred. This time, various Wilfredians have received poison pen letters, putting everyone on edge around each other, as they don't know who knows their secrets. Since Josie has solved mysteries before, she is "voluntold" to track down the sender behind these poison pen letters. To complicate matters more, the late reverend's son has been found deceased. Are the poison pen letters related, or just a coincidence? And then add to all that, Josie is having some odd experiences with her magic. She will have to use her sleuthing skills to discover the cause behind all 3 mysteries.
I loved this installment in the series, especially with not just one, but 3 different mysteries going on! The poison pen letters, once the contents are revealed are actually a bit amusing. I found it funny that poor Josie was volunteered, but really "assigned" the task of finding out who the sender is. I had my suspicions on who that may be based on other events in the story. Then there is the death of the late reverend's son, another mystery and quite unexpected as he was visiting town with the hopes of moving back permanently. Josie's mother is visiting, and works with Josie to help investigate the poison pen letters and the death. Josie also received a letter, but it seems to be sent from a different source then the others, adding a mystery of it's own, along with some odd occurrences with her magic. Josie also learns some things from her mom that are news, and may, or may not, be related to the weird feelings she has been having. Josie is also at the point in her relationship with Sam where she might need to reveal her witchy secret, putting her on edge a bit with what her letter said.
This story is so cozy, I just love how anywhere that there are books, Josie can hear them. It would be such a wonderful gift to be able to hear books! And Rodney, Josie's cat, is ever present as well, getting cozy in a lap or bed.
Some fav quotes:
"Books upstairs called to me. I sensed romance and mystery novels, long unread and lonely."
"The books were generally quick with suggestions and sent their titles to me in rapid fire."
"...a few other patrons leaned against the bookshelves, eliciting coos from the books behind them."
"Throughout the rest of the library, books sighed happily and murmured "Choose me!" from their shelves."
"The set of outdated encyclopedias-Roz had been at me for months to donate them-hummed in baritone as the Fletcher twins flipped through the volumes, pointing at illustrations of emus and B-17 bombers reading entries aloud while summer air poured in from the French doors open to the garden."
"I parked the car, scooped up the books into my arms-whee!-they cried..."
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Kensingon Cozies, and the author for a copy of this story!
Josie Way is back at it again with another mystery in Wilfred. This time, various Wilfredians have received poison pen letters, putting everyone on edge around each other, as they don't know who knows their secrets. Since Josie has solved mysteries before, she is "voluntold" to track down the sender behind these poison pen letters. To complicate matters more, the late reverend's son has been found deceased. Are the poison pen letters related, or just a coincidence? And then add to all that, Josie is having some odd experiences with her magic. She will have to use her sleuthing skills to discover the cause behind all 3 mysteries.
I loved this installment in the series, especially with not just one, but 3 different mysteries going on! The poison pen letters, once the contents are revealed are actually a bit amusing. I found it funny that poor Josie was volunteered, but really "assigned" the task of finding out who the sender is. I had my suspicions on who that may be based on other events in the story. Then there is the death of the late reverend's son, another mystery and quite unexpected as he was visiting town with the hopes of moving back permanently. Josie's mother is visiting, and works with Josie to help investigate the poison pen letters and the death. Josie also received a letter, but it seems to be sent from a different source then the others, adding a mystery of it's own, along with some odd occurrences with her magic. Josie also learns some things from her mom that are news, and may, or may not, be related to the weird feelings she has been having. Josie is also at the point in her relationship with Sam where she might need to reveal her witchy secret, putting her on edge a bit with what her letter said.
This story is so cozy, I just love how anywhere that there are books, Josie can hear them. It would be such a wonderful gift to be able to hear books! And Rodney, Josie's cat, is ever present as well, getting cozy in a lap or bed.
Some fav quotes:
"Books upstairs called to me. I sensed romance and mystery novels, long unread and lonely."
"The books were generally quick with suggestions and sent their titles to me in rapid fire."
"...a few other patrons leaned against the bookshelves, eliciting coos from the books behind them."
"Throughout the rest of the library, books sighed happily and murmured "Choose me!" from their shelves."
"The set of outdated encyclopedias-Roz had been at me for months to donate them-hummed in baritone as the Fletcher twins flipped through the volumes, pointing at illustrations of emus and B-17 bombers reading entries aloud while summer air poured in from the French doors open to the garden."
"I parked the car, scooped up the books into my arms-whee!-they cried..."
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Kensingon Cozies, and the author for a copy of this story!
November 13, 2024
The Witch is Back (Witch Way Librarian Mysteries, #6) by Angela M. Sanders opens with Josie and the rest of the town receiving poison pen letters. On top of that her mom is in town and wants a divorce. Can Josie investigate who wrote these letters while convincing her mom not to get a divorce?
Thank you to NetGalley for the Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) for approving my request as I couldn't wait to find out what happens in this installment. I received a copy for free in exchange for my honest review.
From the very beginning, I was drawn into the story and didn't want to put the book down. That takes some talent in my opinion. I absolutely love the characters of this series . . . they feel like they're part of my family and friend group! With that being said, there are some that get on your nerves at times, but it's like that in real life with real people.
Although I figured out who the culprit was behind the poisoned pen letters, I didn't figure out who the murderer was behind Benjamin's unfortunate death. I had a few guesses but couldn't settle on any of them. I was disappointed in myself over that!
The author did a fantastic job of wrapping up the story to give it closure. However, she did leave a couple of small cliffhangers to entice the reader to continue with the next book when it comes out. I for one can't wait for it! I know, patience is a virtue, and it's not my strong suit, lol.
If you're a fan of paranormal and cozy mysteries, then The Witch is Back (Witch Way Librarian Mysteries, #6) by Angela M. Sanders is the book, and series, for you! The expected publication date of this story is November 26, 2024. Five out of five stars.
Thank you to NetGalley for the Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) for approving my request as I couldn't wait to find out what happens in this installment. I received a copy for free in exchange for my honest review.
From the very beginning, I was drawn into the story and didn't want to put the book down. That takes some talent in my opinion. I absolutely love the characters of this series . . . they feel like they're part of my family and friend group! With that being said, there are some that get on your nerves at times, but it's like that in real life with real people.
Although I figured out who the culprit was behind the poisoned pen letters, I didn't figure out who the murderer was behind Benjamin's unfortunate death. I had a few guesses but couldn't settle on any of them. I was disappointed in myself over that!
The author did a fantastic job of wrapping up the story to give it closure. However, she did leave a couple of small cliffhangers to entice the reader to continue with the next book when it comes out. I for one can't wait for it! I know, patience is a virtue, and it's not my strong suit, lol.
If you're a fan of paranormal and cozy mysteries, then The Witch is Back (Witch Way Librarian Mysteries, #6) by Angela M. Sanders is the book, and series, for you! The expected publication date of this story is November 26, 2024. Five out of five stars.
November 18, 2024
How can you not like a book with this cover, it has a cat and books what else do you need to pick this up?
This is book 6 in the Witch Way Librarion Mysteries by Angela M. Sanders. It was my first book by this writer and in this series. The book can definitely be read as a standalone. But I enjoyed the story a lot, so I'll definitely read the previous books in the series.
We follow librarian Josy who lives in the small-town Wilfred. She is a witch and books 'talk' to her. She is dating Sam the police officer in town. One day her mom comes to visit her town. She works in real estate and she takes her to the Aerie. The house of the recently passed Reverend.
The next couple of days people in town receive letters with threats. She is wants to find out who the author is of the letters and makes it her mission to question everyone. Then the dead body of one of the sons of the Reverend is found in the Aerie. Are the letters and the murder connected? Will she find out who the author is?
If you love small-town mysteries with a bit of a paranormal twist, books, and cats, this book is for you!
This is book 6 in the Witch Way Librarion Mysteries by Angela M. Sanders. It was my first book by this writer and in this series. The book can definitely be read as a standalone. But I enjoyed the story a lot, so I'll definitely read the previous books in the series.
We follow librarian Josy who lives in the small-town Wilfred. She is a witch and books 'talk' to her. She is dating Sam the police officer in town. One day her mom comes to visit her town. She works in real estate and she takes her to the Aerie. The house of the recently passed Reverend.
The next couple of days people in town receive letters with threats. She is wants to find out who the author is of the letters and makes it her mission to question everyone. Then the dead body of one of the sons of the Reverend is found in the Aerie. Are the letters and the murder connected? Will she find out who the author is?
If you love small-town mysteries with a bit of a paranormal twist, books, and cats, this book is for you!
November 11, 2024
Josie Way is the town of Wilfred, Oregon's Librarian. She's Also a witch and the books speak to her and help her solve problems.
The big news in town is the passing of Reverend Clarence Duffy, who had been retired since the death of his wife, brings back his children for his funeral and to their childhood manor called Aerie. And if this wasn't enough excitement for their little town, the town people are receiving poison pen letters about sins from their past. Josie also received a letter but it is not like the others. This letter could change her whole life and her relationship with Sam the town's Sheriff.
And to put the cherry on top of it all her mother shows up unannounced with worrying family issues.
I really enjoyed the book! It works very well as a stand alone witch cozy mystery. I am excited to read the rest of the series.
My thanks to Netgalley and the author Angela M. Sanders for the opportunity to read and review this great story!
All opinions are my own.
The big news in town is the passing of Reverend Clarence Duffy, who had been retired since the death of his wife, brings back his children for his funeral and to their childhood manor called Aerie. And if this wasn't enough excitement for their little town, the town people are receiving poison pen letters about sins from their past. Josie also received a letter but it is not like the others. This letter could change her whole life and her relationship with Sam the town's Sheriff.
And to put the cherry on top of it all her mother shows up unannounced with worrying family issues.
I really enjoyed the book! It works very well as a stand alone witch cozy mystery. I am excited to read the rest of the series.
My thanks to Netgalley and the author Angela M. Sanders for the opportunity to read and review this great story!
All opinions are my own.
August 4, 2024
The Witch Is Back by Angela M. Sanders is a cute paranormal cozy mystery that is the sixth book in the adorable A Witch Way Librarian Mystery series.
This is such a nice series that is part cozy and part paranormal. The addition of a librarian, books with their own personalities, the fantastic backdrop of Oregon, and of course a feline, make this a cozy series that I have easily been able to devour.
4/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 11/26/24.
This is such a nice series that is part cozy and part paranormal. The addition of a librarian, books with their own personalities, the fantastic backdrop of Oregon, and of course a feline, make this a cozy series that I have easily been able to devour.
4/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 11/26/24.
January 6, 2026
The Witch Is Back is a fun return to the Witch Way Librarian Mysteries and one of my favorite installments so far. I loved how the author continues to weave the larger, overarching mysteries through the series. Those long threads make the world in Wilifred feel rich and rewarding for returning readers.
It was especially fun to finally meet Josie’s mother, which added depth, warmth, and a fresh dynamic to the story. As always, the mystery itself was cleverly constructed, packed with red herrings, layered clues, and just enough twists to keep me guessing right up to the end.
Cozy, magical, and smartly plotted, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read and a perfect reminder of why I love this series. If you’re already a fan of Witch Way, this one absolutely delivers! I'm excited to read the next installment to see how this all comes together.
It was especially fun to finally meet Josie’s mother, which added depth, warmth, and a fresh dynamic to the story. As always, the mystery itself was cleverly constructed, packed with red herrings, layered clues, and just enough twists to keep me guessing right up to the end.
Cozy, magical, and smartly plotted, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read and a perfect reminder of why I love this series. If you’re already a fan of Witch Way, this one absolutely delivers! I'm excited to read the next installment to see how this all comes together.
January 22, 2025
Josie’s mom comes to visit and there is someone in town sending poison pen letters. The slow progression of the romance continues at the same pace as well as the slow reveal of the source of the malevolent undercurrent stalking Josie with crows. Sometimes I can’t stand the not knowing though I understand this is a plot device to keep me waiting for the next book in the series. The characters are likable the magic is minimal and book related. That’s the real reason I come back for more.
December 1, 2024
This was a new series to me. I did enjoy the characters and after seeing the other readers who have left reviews after reading the whole series up to this point I will go back and read the rest of the series to help me fill in some gaps.
Overall this is a good book with a slow burn romance. I loved the poison pen concept and the chaos it was causing.
I am rounding this to 3.5 stars ⭐️and only because it seemed a little slow to me.
Thank you NetGalley for chance to read this arc. All options are my own.
Overall this is a good book with a slow burn romance. I loved the poison pen concept and the chaos it was causing.
I am rounding this to 3.5 stars ⭐️and only because it seemed a little slow to me.
Thank you NetGalley for chance to read this arc. All options are my own.
December 1, 2024
I meant to finish this last month but decided to go to sleep last night. Looking forward to seeing where this series goes. Witch the way this book ended this isn't over
January 9, 2025
A couple of different mysteries in this story. One is a murder and the other is a poisoned pen letter writer. The book was an easy read.
Read
October 18, 2025DNF page 82.
This series has clearly wanted to stop being about the mystery and focus more on the witch drama. I guess this is the last one for this series.
This series has clearly wanted to stop being about the mystery and focus more on the witch drama. I guess this is the last one for this series.
October 28, 2025
Lots going on in this installment and very little resolved. Not my favorite installment in this series.
December 3, 2024
So glad she finally told him
March 17, 2025
This book was really good! This is the sixth book I've read by Angela M. Sanders. It was well written and well paced, very entertaining and incredibly hard to put down. Much better than expected, and very well worth the time to read.
March 7, 2025
It’s kinda starting to feel like Sam only appears when he’s needed to move the story along or to wrap everything up into a nice little ball in an attempt to make it plausible.
December 10, 2024
Ugh!!! Forgot how much I missed Josie, her library, and the town of Wilfred. This was a really good one. An eerie mix of religious zealotry and hauntings creeped me out throughout. Lots of mysteries slowly unraveling; I hope we’ll get some answers and see these at the forefront of the next book.
December 27, 2024
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Witch is Back by Angela M. Sanders is set during the summertime, and Josie has quite a few mysteries to solve.
Is the poison pen letters connected to the murder? Or is it just a coincidence? Why is Josie's mother visiting her?
Josie and Nora
Josie has those questions and more to answer in this newest Witch Way Librarian Mysteries series installment. She has her hands full trying to figure out why her mother is in town unannounced and why was the boxes of books so mean at the Aerie. Josie is doing great with figuring out her magic, especially with her grandma's help from her letters. Except is her magic enough to take down the poison pen letter writer and find a murderer? Probably not. Nora is there, and she can help.
I love the Way family members and how Josie was able to help the two family members who have come to visit her to see things differently. Josie is a remarkable character, and I would love to be friends with her. Mostly so that I can hang out in that fabulous library that she runs. Now, that is a fantastic place, as I see it in my head. Josie's relationship with her mom is excellent, and I love a good mom-daughter duo.
The Mysteries
Josie has quite a few mysteries going around town. The major one for Josie would be why her mother is in town without her father and why she always looks so dejected. The next mystery would be the poison pen letters. Another mystery is the dead body of one of the reverend's sons. The last one, technically for Josie, is who wrote her poison pen letter. There is another mystery, but I can't say what it is since it's not in the plot summary, and I don't want to spoil it. Josie has her hands full, trying to figure all of these mysteries out while still being a good hostess with her mom in town.
I have to say that I thought the poison pen letters and the murder was connected and who did it. Ms. Sanders caught me with a fantastic red herring that she put in.
Five Stars
My rating for The Witch is Back by Angela M. Sanders is five stars. After reading every installment, I can't help but recommend this series—it's that wonderfully written. Ms. Sanders has a way of transporting me from wherever I am to Wilford, Oregon, where I can help Josie solve a mystery and see how she is doing with Sam Wilford.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of The Witch is Back by Angela M. Sanders.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
The Witch is Back by Angela M. Sanders is set during the summertime, and Josie has quite a few mysteries to solve.
Is the poison pen letters connected to the murder? Or is it just a coincidence? Why is Josie's mother visiting her?
Josie and Nora
Josie has those questions and more to answer in this newest Witch Way Librarian Mysteries series installment. She has her hands full trying to figure out why her mother is in town unannounced and why was the boxes of books so mean at the Aerie. Josie is doing great with figuring out her magic, especially with her grandma's help from her letters. Except is her magic enough to take down the poison pen letter writer and find a murderer? Probably not. Nora is there, and she can help.
I love the Way family members and how Josie was able to help the two family members who have come to visit her to see things differently. Josie is a remarkable character, and I would love to be friends with her. Mostly so that I can hang out in that fabulous library that she runs. Now, that is a fantastic place, as I see it in my head. Josie's relationship with her mom is excellent, and I love a good mom-daughter duo.
The Mysteries
Josie has quite a few mysteries going around town. The major one for Josie would be why her mother is in town without her father and why she always looks so dejected. The next mystery would be the poison pen letters. Another mystery is the dead body of one of the reverend's sons. The last one, technically for Josie, is who wrote her poison pen letter. There is another mystery, but I can't say what it is since it's not in the plot summary, and I don't want to spoil it. Josie has her hands full, trying to figure all of these mysteries out while still being a good hostess with her mom in town.
I have to say that I thought the poison pen letters and the murder was connected and who did it. Ms. Sanders caught me with a fantastic red herring that she put in.
Five Stars
My rating for The Witch is Back by Angela M. Sanders is five stars. After reading every installment, I can't help but recommend this series—it's that wonderfully written. Ms. Sanders has a way of transporting me from wherever I am to Wilford, Oregon, where I can help Josie solve a mystery and see how she is doing with Sam Wilford.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of The Witch is Back by Angela M. Sanders.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book TroveJanuary 31, 2026
*** All reviews are my opinion only. Your experience may vary. SPOILERS! ***
I originally was going to wait until I finished the entire series before reviewing, but I find I have been compelled to review the fifth and sixth books in this series (so far)while fresh in my mind.
Let me start by saying that this series has been cozy and enjoyable. I love the world-building - Wilfred is so clearly mapped out and described, I wish I could actually visit. I love the found family aspect as well. This book series could easily be a fun series on Hallmark much like "The Good Witch." The characters are fleshed out and fun and interesting without being overwritten and forced "quirky", if you get what I mean. Except Sam. He is very one-dimensional and is basically a plot device. Even after she revealed herself as a witch. Josie's affection for him continues to be very stilted and the descriptions of her feelings for him are very one-dimensional as well. Sam still just exists. He has no other character development. The plot development continues to be at the same level as Book 5, down to the solution to the mystery of the poison-pen letters, which I mostly called immediately. It was spelled out for us. Emilio told the kids to be ruthless in business. Then we get the letters and the blackmailer only wants 20 dollars? I immediately thought of Thor's and Buffy's schemes, and Ellie's need for money. I just didn't know if it was just Buffy and Thor and Ellie was the red herring. And I thought the way Ellie got her information was a little too convenient, to be honest. The clues were also obvious about Lucy's pregnancy. I suspected Adam of the murder, but he seemed too obvious.
Actually, I liked the way Adam was obvious and then not, and then was again. That was clever and kept me guessing. I really loved meeting Josie's mom, even if her dismissal of her 35 year marriage and easy acceptance of another man's attention felt super abrupt, including her dismissal of Emilio after she found out he was a criminal. All very abrupt. I also started to wonder how much time was passing in this series since Thor, Buffy, and Nicky seem to be frozen in time. Josie said less than two years? Thats a lot of murders for a small town in a short amount of time!😄
I continue to love this series though. I still love Wilfred and all its residents. I think Josie's story overall is fun and the twist of her grandmother's lessons intriguing. No "Moriarty" yet, but all clues continue to point to the textiles dealer, somehow. I'm excited to read Book 7, the final published book in this series at this time.
What's up with the dark shadow over Josie and her magic? Will Sam accept her? Will Thor, Buffy, and Nicky be allowed to age? I can't wait to find out!
I originally was going to wait until I finished the entire series before reviewing, but I find I have been compelled to review the fifth and sixth books in this series (so far)while fresh in my mind.
Let me start by saying that this series has been cozy and enjoyable. I love the world-building - Wilfred is so clearly mapped out and described, I wish I could actually visit. I love the found family aspect as well. This book series could easily be a fun series on Hallmark much like "The Good Witch." The characters are fleshed out and fun and interesting without being overwritten and forced "quirky", if you get what I mean. Except Sam. He is very one-dimensional and is basically a plot device. Even after she revealed herself as a witch. Josie's affection for him continues to be very stilted and the descriptions of her feelings for him are very one-dimensional as well. Sam still just exists. He has no other character development. The plot development continues to be at the same level as Book 5, down to the solution to the mystery of the poison-pen letters, which I mostly called immediately. It was spelled out for us. Emilio told the kids to be ruthless in business. Then we get the letters and the blackmailer only wants 20 dollars? I immediately thought of Thor's and Buffy's schemes, and Ellie's need for money. I just didn't know if it was just Buffy and Thor and Ellie was the red herring. And I thought the way Ellie got her information was a little too convenient, to be honest. The clues were also obvious about Lucy's pregnancy. I suspected Adam of the murder, but he seemed too obvious.
Actually, I liked the way Adam was obvious and then not, and then was again. That was clever and kept me guessing. I really loved meeting Josie's mom, even if her dismissal of her 35 year marriage and easy acceptance of another man's attention felt super abrupt, including her dismissal of Emilio after she found out he was a criminal. All very abrupt. I also started to wonder how much time was passing in this series since Thor, Buffy, and Nicky seem to be frozen in time. Josie said less than two years? Thats a lot of murders for a small town in a short amount of time!😄
I continue to love this series though. I still love Wilfred and all its residents. I think Josie's story overall is fun and the twist of her grandmother's lessons intriguing. No "Moriarty" yet, but all clues continue to point to the textiles dealer, somehow. I'm excited to read Book 7, the final published book in this series at this time.
What's up with the dark shadow over Josie and her magic? Will Sam accept her? Will Thor, Buffy, and Nicky be allowed to age? I can't wait to find out!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2024
We're back for the 6th installment of Angela M. Sanders's series Witch Way Librarian Mysteries: The Witch is Back.
Warning: minor spoil ahead (not a huge one, I promise)!
I've read the five previous books, so I'm well-versed in the world that Sanders has created. Of course, there's another dead body in Wilfred, Oregon, so the local librarian and neighborhood Book Witch is on the case to solve the mystery. And Josie's mother has shown up and is ready to be Josie's sidekick as long as it doesn't get in the way of her hanging out with a mysterious stranger.
Josie, on the other hand, is wrestling with whether she should finally tell Sam about her truth. Of course, this is all pushed to the breaking point when Wilfredians start receiving blackmail letters. Even Josie receives a mysterious letter claiming to know her secret.
As you can imagine, between the letters, the dead body, and her parents' apparently crumbling marriage (that's the minor spoil), Josie has her work cut out for her.
Critique:
I like these books. I've found them highly entertaining to read. I think Sanders has done a great job of creating a world for Josie to exist in that's unlike any that I've seen in cozy mysteries. Sure, the basics for a cozy mystery are all there, but Josie's unique witchy powers are something different and fun.
As for this book specifically, I really enjoyed the story. It kept me guessing. I had several pieces figured out along the way, but not everything fell into place until Sanders finally got us to the climax, which is what you want in a good mystery. You want to be as smart as the sleuth but not so smart that the book starts to feel tedious along the way.
As a whole, I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good paranormal cozy mystery. If you think you would like this series, I would start with book one and make my way through the series instead of jumping right into book six. That's not to say that someone who just reads book six wouldn't enjoy the book, but you'd definitely get a few spoilers from earlier books if you just jumped in the deep end.
Overall, I want to thank the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book before publication. Although I am grateful for their generosity, this review is 100 percent my own.
Warning: minor spoil ahead (not a huge one, I promise)!
I've read the five previous books, so I'm well-versed in the world that Sanders has created. Of course, there's another dead body in Wilfred, Oregon, so the local librarian and neighborhood Book Witch is on the case to solve the mystery. And Josie's mother has shown up and is ready to be Josie's sidekick as long as it doesn't get in the way of her hanging out with a mysterious stranger.
Josie, on the other hand, is wrestling with whether she should finally tell Sam about her truth. Of course, this is all pushed to the breaking point when Wilfredians start receiving blackmail letters. Even Josie receives a mysterious letter claiming to know her secret.
As you can imagine, between the letters, the dead body, and her parents' apparently crumbling marriage (that's the minor spoil), Josie has her work cut out for her.
Critique:
I like these books. I've found them highly entertaining to read. I think Sanders has done a great job of creating a world for Josie to exist in that's unlike any that I've seen in cozy mysteries. Sure, the basics for a cozy mystery are all there, but Josie's unique witchy powers are something different and fun.
As for this book specifically, I really enjoyed the story. It kept me guessing. I had several pieces figured out along the way, but not everything fell into place until Sanders finally got us to the climax, which is what you want in a good mystery. You want to be as smart as the sleuth but not so smart that the book starts to feel tedious along the way.
As a whole, I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good paranormal cozy mystery. If you think you would like this series, I would start with book one and make my way through the series instead of jumping right into book six. That's not to say that someone who just reads book six wouldn't enjoy the book, but you'd definitely get a few spoilers from earlier books if you just jumped in the deep end.
Overall, I want to thank the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book before publication. Although I am grateful for their generosity, this review is 100 percent my own.
April 20, 2025
There is something strange afoot in Wilfred, Oregon. And I'm not just speaking of the usual mystery afoot. There is something fussing with Josie and her magic, and it's causing a fair bit of chaos.
But this book is about more than just chaos and magical fussing. It's about secrets. The secrets that are kept out of fear, the secrets that hurt others, the secrets that are revealed for both reasons, and the secrets that have the power to do real damage.
Secrets such as these are causing some major havoc amongst the townspeople of Wilfred, Oregon, and Josie has been tasked with figuring out who's behind it and why. Of course, she's pulling double duty trying to figure out who's messing with her magic at the same time, all while keeping her secret from Sam.
But when these secrets also lead to murder, Josie has bitten off much more than she can chew with this case. So it's a good thing that her mother is visiting for the time being.
Nora Way is not as open to her magical abilities as her daughter. She's spent most of her life turning her back on her abilities of foresight, and doing her best to tamp it down. But when push comes to shove, a mother will always do what needs doing to help her daughter. And that's exactly what Nora ends up doing.
Josie and Nora work together to not only solve the poison-pen letter mystery, but a murder mystery as well. All while dealing with this oppressive magical force that's worked its way through Wilfred, and with Josie struggling to tell Sam the life-changing secret that she's a witch.
This is all leading to something. And I have a feeling I know what that something is. Or at least, I highly suspect what that something is. And honestly, I can't really say I'm much looking forward to it, if my suspicions are correct.
While this book wasn't quite as twisty-turny as I've grown accustomed to with this series, it really did lay down the groundwork for what's coming next. I'm cautiously optimistic about what's to come, but I'm also a little apprehensive.
I guess we'll just see what happens.
But this book is about more than just chaos and magical fussing. It's about secrets. The secrets that are kept out of fear, the secrets that hurt others, the secrets that are revealed for both reasons, and the secrets that have the power to do real damage.
Secrets such as these are causing some major havoc amongst the townspeople of Wilfred, Oregon, and Josie has been tasked with figuring out who's behind it and why. Of course, she's pulling double duty trying to figure out who's messing with her magic at the same time, all while keeping her secret from Sam.
But when these secrets also lead to murder, Josie has bitten off much more than she can chew with this case. So it's a good thing that her mother is visiting for the time being.
Nora Way is not as open to her magical abilities as her daughter. She's spent most of her life turning her back on her abilities of foresight, and doing her best to tamp it down. But when push comes to shove, a mother will always do what needs doing to help her daughter. And that's exactly what Nora ends up doing.
Josie and Nora work together to not only solve the poison-pen letter mystery, but a murder mystery as well. All while dealing with this oppressive magical force that's worked its way through Wilfred, and with Josie struggling to tell Sam the life-changing secret that she's a witch.
This is all leading to something. And I have a feeling I know what that something is. Or at least, I highly suspect what that something is. And honestly, I can't really say I'm much looking forward to it, if my suspicions are correct.
While this book wasn't quite as twisty-turny as I've grown accustomed to with this series, it really did lay down the groundwork for what's coming next. I'm cautiously optimistic about what's to come, but I'm also a little apprehensive.
I guess we'll just see what happens.
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