The Unusual Mayor Marheart

The Cassie Black Trilogy #4

by Tammie Painter

Cassie Black is back! She’s defeated an evil wizard, saved way more people than you’d expect from an antisocial misfit, and she’s now heading up MagicLand’s newest detective agency.

Well, sort of.

See, she’s got just a few problems, starting with getting kicked out of the Academy’s detective training program. Apparently instructors don’t like being called Walrus Face. Who knew, right?

But it’s all for the best as it’s forced Cassie to start her own detective agency. Which would be great except for the complete lack of clients.

Cassie thinks her career is on the upswing when MagicLand’s new mayor hires her to find a missing jewel. It’s a huge case that could turn the agency around. Trouble is, the jewel hasn’t been seen for well over four hundred years. And Cassie suspects there’s more than meets the evil eye to the mayor’s sudden demands the jewel be found ASAP.

What’s more… something besides tea is brewing over at Magic HQ, but thanks to a little snag in the magic bureaucracy, Cassie isn’t allowed anywhere near the case. In fact, if she doesn’t sort out that bit of bureaucracy in the next few days, her sleuthing career will be over before it ever begins.

It all has Cassie looking wistfully back on the days when all she had to do was save the world.

If you like contemporary fantasy filled with wry humor, paranormal mystery, and diabolical office chairs, you’ll love the twists and turns of this start to an all new trilogy featuring Cassie Black, Mr Tenpenny, and all the other familiar faces from the original series.

Genres: Fantasy, Mystery

370 pages, Paperback

Published July 16, 2024

About the author

THE RAMBLING BIO AND OFFER OF FREE STUFF
Many moons ago I was a scientist in a neuroscience lab where I got to play with brains and illegal drugs. Now, I take wickedly strong tea and turn it into comic fantasy whodunits full of mythical misfits and magical mishaps that I hope give you a giggle.

My tales run the gamut from the ever-expanding  Cassie Black Trilogy with its wryly humorous paranormal mysteries to the comical fantasy whodunits in The Circus of Unusual Creatures , and from light-hearted novellas celebrating my love of books to short fiction in which I really flex my myth-loving and humor-craving muscles!

When I’m not creating worlds or killing off characters, I can be found gardening, planning my next travel adventure, concocting some sort of mess in the kitchen, or working as an unpaid servant to three cats and a guinea pig.

Want to learn more and get free stuff? Then be sure to pop by TammiePainter.com to see everything I'm up to and to grab your free copy of "Mrs. Morris Meets Death," a humorous tale of mortality, time management, cruise ships, and romance novels.



THE QUICK AS YOU CAN STORY BEHIND MY BOOKS...
My fascination for myths, history, and how they interweave inspired my two historical fantasy series, The Osteria Chronicles and my second series, Domna (you can grab your free series starters for those HERE and HERE).

But all those ancient myths and angst-ridden heroes got a bit too serious for someone with a strange sense of humor and odd way of looking at the world. 

So, while sitting at my grandmother’s funeral, my brain came up with an idea for a contemporary fantasy trilogy that’s filled with magic, mystery, snarky humor, and the dead who just won’t stay dead. That idea turned into The Cassie Black Trilogy, which has turned into a fan favorite.

Then, because writer brains are weird, a simple elephant story I had in mind somehow morphed into a "hilarious" cozy fantasy series featuring a detecting dragon. So, if you like comic fantasy whodunits that mix in laughs with murderous mayhem, mythical beasts, and a staggering variety of omelets, you’ll want to check out my Circus of Unusual Creatures mysteries!


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Reviews

[Wendy Rowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the first 3 books in the trilogy, and this one is as good. The characters -- particularly Cassie -- are realistic as they live in their unique sort of magic world. The people matter as much as the magic, so it's easy to care about what happens to them. And it's funny like the rest of the series. Good story, engaging characters, interesting magic universe, well written, funny -- what more could you ask?

[Jersey Girl Dee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wish there was more Alastair. And can’t understand why only those in Portland can help HQ when there are other magical communities and aren’t there smart people at HQ who are more familiar with things?! And why is Cassie so important? They did this in the last book only giving her half answers and expect her to know everything going on. And what is with such the vitriol with everyone?! And why is Cassie responsible for Tobey’s success or failure?! I love the first three books, but this one didn’t really move things forward enough…and what is with Alastair’s complete personality 180?!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

After getting kicked out of Magicland's Academy detective training program, Cassie is thrown a lifeline with a chance to start her own detective agency. The only problem is, with the Herald printing daily stories about her being a fraud, customers are proving hard to come by. With pressure from HQ to get her licence so that she can help with their latest troubles Cassie needs to find a satisfied client ASAP. Not an easy feat when her clients start turning up dead.

Cassie Black is back!! In true style she can't do anything the easy way, and lets her mouth get the better of her. I appreciated that she is becoming more familiar with Magicland (otherwise known as Rosaria) in this book, and has started to form some solid relationships. I think the banter between Cassie and Tobey is some of my favourite parts of the book, it reminds me of some of my own friendships at times!

Plot wise this one ticks along nicely, with Cassie racing to solve cases and get her detective licence before time runs out. Some of the cases seem relatively simple, but as the story progresses it becomes clear that there is something bigger going on behind the scenes, and that the seemingly simple cases might all have a connection. I could understand Cassie's frustration at not being told what is going on at HQ - I wanted to know too!! Things end on an ultimate cliff hanger, and you just know that there is something huge coming.

I'm absolutely loving this series, and highly recommend to anyone who loves a magical fantasy with a heavy dose of sarcasm and satire thrown in. Start at the beginning though.

[Stephen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well, the first thing that must be said about the trilogy, part 4, that this is, would be that it is really obvious why 40% of the American population is classified as obese - the closest we get to anything healthy being eaten in the entirety of this book is almost at the end (a vegetable sandwich of some sort, though it hasn't actually been consumed by the time "The End" comes around).

That said, this fourth part of Cassie Black's adventures doesn't live up to the previous three: it's not as funny (though there are one or two lol moments), she's not as good a character and her ability to be perceptive seems wholly absent. Some of the other characters (Runa and Fiona, for instance) remain interesting, while others are baffling in the least (Alastair, the supposed boyfriend, who would have been for the chop in any normal relationship - hopefully he will come a-cropper soon, perhaps at the claws of the cat, Pablo?). The bumbling along is fine, to a point, but the story just feels lacking somehow - as the author admits in her afterword, she intended to write a trilogy and that was that.

There is enough in the main plot for one to want to keep going, but this reader hopes more inspiration will come in the remainder of this second Cassie Black trilogy - the first trilogy was really enjoyable, fun and funny, had a great storyline running through it and kept your attention, and wasn't just so focused on eating sweets, 'candies' and pastries.

[Kim Watt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassie is back! And she's trying VERY hard to be a magical detective, but not only is her choice of agency name not exactly bringing the clients to the door, the local MagicLand newspaper is actively turning the town against her. Plus, when she finally manages to get clients, she keeps losing them, which is pretty much the opposite of what a detective should be doing.

All of which sets us up for a fast, fun, magic-packed romp as the first of the last three books in this six-book, ah, trilogy, kicks off. As ever, Tammie's sense of humour shines through, but never slows the pace or gets in the way of the story. A fantastic read, and as I somehow neglected to read books two and three I'm off to buy them now (sidenote, this did not in any way leave me confused, either, so this can be read as a standalone).

[T.M. Baumgartner · Rating 5 out of 5]

The premise: Cassie Black — accidental raiser of the dead and magical wildcard — is back. At loose ends yet again, she decides to do the one thing she' good at: finding things. So she open a detective agency, and chaos ensues.

The good: All our favorite characters return. You don't need to have read the first trilogy, but if you did, you'll enjoy being back among Cassie's friends and frenemies.

The bad: Yeah, it ends on a cliffhanger, so if that's a dealbreaker for you, you may want to wait. But the next book will be out soon! Also, don't read this book if you're hungry or you may accidentally find yourself clearing the shelves at the nearest bakery.

All in all, this is a solid and funny addition to the Cassie Black series!

[Tsippi Jelingold · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the start of Cassie Black's second trilogy. Cassie is smart and would make a great detective if only she could get her detective agency license approved by HQ, but the magic world is determined to thwart her. I do like Cassie even though she's a stubborn, antisocial, awkward klutz, because she's also funny, brave, loyal, and dedicated. I enjoy reading her adventures and would love more of them. As Ms. Painter warned, this part ends in a cliffhanger. I'll just have to hold my breath until the next part is published. My advice - keep lots of snacks by your side while reading. Just saying.

[Lj · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassie Black launches into her second trilogy in her signature clumsy, awkward, stubborn, anti-social style. Her new adventures are as humourous and delightful as in the first trilogy as she struggles to make her way as a detective in 'Magicland'. Although the story picks up a few months after the conclusion of the third book, it is the start of a whole new adventure and it would be easy to pick up and enjoy even if you hadn't read the first trilogy.

I received an ARC and leave an honest review.

[Jeanne Pocius Dorismond · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet Another Great Story

In the magical world of Cassie Black, which begins in book 1 (read it: I won't spoil it for you), those little garden gnomes are actually alive! And her landlord isn't quite the oddball he seems to be (or, maybe he is!). This story continues the saga, with more details on all our favorites characters (and places) that we came to know and love in the first 3 books. The beauty of this series is that kids will love it, but there are plenty of Insider (adult) references that make it work for all ages!
Well done! A Bravo!!!

[Buzz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fun romp in Magicland.

I enjoyed learning that there were more than three books in this trilogy (?). I would disagree with the author that you could read this book without reading the previous stories, but I digress. I usually dislike characters who self sabotage, but Cassie seems to have angered the gods in this one, and I was hoping to see who was behind the mischief that is happening all around, and too her before the end of the book. Anxious to read the next book!

[Angela Gilden · Rating 5 out of 5]

another enjoyable escape

So the fact that this is the fourth book of the Cassie Black trilogy should tell us that nothing’s impossible in Portland, or in Rosaria, its magical enclave. For example: a Warmth and conscientiousness inexplicably creep into our bad, disorganized heroine’s repertoire, the Bookworm is creepy af, there’s nice queer representation, and the humor goes from sweet to dark and back again like a cat with the zoomies. Staying with this series!

[George Penney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Tammie Painter is more fun than patting puppies, eating your favourite ice-cream with extra sprinkles and fighting (or hugging depending on your preference) dragons... not necessarily at the same time, but that could be interesting. The ultimate laugh out loud author who consistently brings the joy. (Further review to follow.)

[Gill · Rating 4 out of 5]

An entertaining fourth book in the "Cassie Black Trilogy" - best read the others first. Our heroine tries to establish her own (magical) detective agency, but everything seems determined to stop her. Lots of baked goods in this - and one or two big howlers. (Mary Queen of Scots in particular!)

Possibly not quite a 4* book, but good fun, nevertheless.

[Jill Moore · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I enjoy Tammie Painter's books, this one seemed to just leave too many things hanging. Way too many cliff-hangers. It was a good story in the Cassie Black line, but at least something should have been resolved.

[Lynne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the start of a whole new triology starring Cassie Black. I did enjoy this quite a bit, there was enough backstory that I didn't feel completely lost. Well written and looking forward to the next ones.

[Ken Robson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassie is back, this new trilogy sees her back investigating, but some of the cases of the new detective leave her a bit under whelmed.
Be prepared for a cameo appearance from the circus (not in person though)

Looking forward to the rest of the series

[Divya · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great start to the new Trilogy of Cassie Black who is a strong willed and impulsive character! The story is fast-paced and quite interesting. I felt for Cassie and the hurdles she faced. A nicle written humorous mystery.

[Lorraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

For a trilogy, book 4 is great. Cassie Black is at it again as a detective this time. But her magic has gone awry and is not reliable making her cases harder to crack. It ends with a cliff hanger and I was lucky to have bought book 5.

[Bjørn]

RTC

[Todd Glaeser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassie is back! The mysteries are gathering around her and the next trilogy is marvelously entertaining!

[BRT · Rating 3 out of 5]

Loved this next book in the Cassie Black series. All the mystery, magic, and mayhem we love and more. But, oh, that cliffhanger! 😡

[Susie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to learn that there would be a second trilogy for this series because I loved the first one, and number four did not disappoint.

[Stephanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

ok. looking forward to the conclusion.

[Eloy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had no idea how much I missed Cassie in my life. The Unusual Mayor Marheart is part four of the Cassie Black series and it is hilarious and exciting. Join Cassie as she tries to solve case after case while struggling to find her place in the society of magicland. This next part in the Cassie Black series is like coming home. You don’t need to have read the first three parts, but I’m sure you will after reading The Unusual Mayor Marheart. I can’t wait for book 5. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Sarah]

It was really fun to return to the magical world of Cassie Black and this terrifically colorful cast of characters. As the start to a new series, The Unusual Mayor Marheart hits all the right elements of setting up an engaging mystery. I do wish the arc progressed a little more in this installment, as I suspect the book could hold up a little better on its own, but I can certainly forgive that as I really do love launching back into this world and look forward to continuing the adventure. Cassie is funny, clumsy, and endearing as ever, and I think I may have risked falling into a sugar coma just reading about her impressive sweet tooth that miraculously surpasses my own.

[Timothy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in The Cassie Black Trilogy 2.0. Cassie is struggling to find a job now that she knows she is a Magic and doesn't work at the mortuary anymore. (Bringing people back to life is a bit unusual for her employers.) When she is given an opportunity to become a detective she jumps at the chance. However, she is expelled from the Academy before she can finish the classes and get her license. So, she sets up her own detective agency with an undetermined name. She tries Black Magic Detective Agency. (She is Cassie Black and she uses magic ... But those pesky clients seem to want to put the first two words together.) Detectives R Us gets shot down right away.
After picking up a few cases she discovers she needs to be licensed. All she needs for that is to have a successful case and for the client to sign off that it was done properly. That's easier said than done since she is having trouble getting her cases signed off.

The local newspaper, The Herald, seems to have some sort of vendetta against her, causing many of the citizens around her to treat her with disdain.

Will Cassie be able to figure out what is happening to her clients and finally get her license? Will she figure out why The Herald is out to get her? Will she survive all the paperwork and finally get to work with Magic HQ? Heck if I know, the story ends in a total cliffhanger. It doesn't tie up any of the story threads. As a matter of fact, it adds some extra suspense in the last few pages to make sure you get the next book when it comes out.

[Jonathan Pongratz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a fun-filled magical mystery with wit, wonder, and worrisome shenanigans.

After having saved her parents and the magical community of Rosaria, Cassie Black finds herself unemployed and restless. Luckily her parents have a wonderful gift for her that inspires her to start her own detective agency. But being a detective is easier said than done, and as she begins working cases for lost items, a string of strange happenings occur that make Cassie wonder if there may be more at play than meets the eye.

Once again, Cassie Black doesn't disappoint as a MC. She's curious, scrappy, and witty, and I loved hanging out in her head space. She really takes her new career seriously, and her seemingly endless bad luck made me really feel for her. I also really loved her kitty Pablo. I mean, if you're going to be a detective you need a trustworthy sidekick, right?

I loved how whimsical this story was. It helped keep the tone upbeat even with darkness hanging around every corner, and the puns were truly great and made me laugh in a couple of spots.

There was a lot of mystery and magic in this novel that kept me reading. I think I know who is responsible for the events in this book, but I'll have to read the next one to find out. I can't wait to see what happens!

If you need a fun fantasy mystery that keeps things lighthearted you've gotta try this one out!

[Karen Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fun Cassie Black story! I was so excited to get back to the world of Cassie and Rosaria and all the fun from the previous trilogy and this book did not disappoint. It’s the first of three so expect that the story does not wrap up in this book. But it has setup the scene for more fun to come!

[Kirsten Marion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassie Black is back and she doesn’t disappoint! A hugely talented Magic and able detective, she should have the world at her feet. Instead, she’s thwarted at every turn in ways that range from deadly to simply mean and nasty.
I enjoyed the fast pace, reuniting with familiar characters from the previous three books and meeting some new characters. Pablo the cat becomes a full character in his own right. What does he know that the rest of us don’t?
I loved the sly nod to another series from this author, The Circus of Unusual Creatures.
The book ends on a cliffhanger and I am anxious to find out what happens next!

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassie Black is back with a new trilogy trying to solve crimes to gain her private detective license.As usual nothing goes to plan and we are left at the end with a cliffhanger.Extremely enjoyable read can’t wait for the next book. Although reading the first trilogy is not essential I would highly recommend it you won’t regret it
Peter