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Havenwood Cozy Mystery #4
The Riddle at the Revelry
Will the year end with a death or start with a bang?
After a tumultuous Christmas season, Harper Sullivan is ready to welcome the new year with open arms. Havenwood's New Year's Eve Spectacle promises to be a dazzling occasion, but an unexpected twist thrusts Harper into a world of mystical intrigue.
Amidst the glittering lights, Harper uncovers a spectral mystery that has haunted the town for decades. Determined to bring closure to the spellbound soul, Harper embarks on a hunt for clues, hoping to finally help the spirit find peace where so many others have tried and failed. With the clock ticking down to midnight, can she unveil the secrets behind the ghostly apparition and bring resolution to the wandering spirit or will she become the town’s newest specter?
After a tumultuous Christmas season, Harper Sullivan is ready to welcome the new year with open arms. Havenwood's New Year's Eve Spectacle promises to be a dazzling occasion, but an unexpected twist thrusts Harper into a world of mystical intrigue.
Amidst the glittering lights, Harper uncovers a spectral mystery that has haunted the town for decades. Determined to bring closure to the spellbound soul, Harper embarks on a hunt for clues, hoping to finally help the spirit find peace where so many others have tried and failed. With the clock ticking down to midnight, can she unveil the secrets behind the ghostly apparition and bring resolution to the wandering spirit or will she become the town’s newest specter?
Kindle Edition
First published December 31, 2024
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45 people want to read
About the author
L.L. Gray
30 books114 followersL.L. Gray writes captivating, fast-paced fantasy full of wit, warmth, and magic. Her books transport readers to charming, cozy worlds brimming with lovable characters and whimsical adventures. A lifelong enthusiast of fantasy and myths, L.L. Gray blends humor and heart, inviting readers to escape into her spellbinding stories that feel like home—cozy, magical, and impossible to put down.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
January 19, 2025
Past comes alive
What a wonderful story, a mystery that all starts when Harper and Bella find an old photo. What starts as prep for a New Year’s Eve bash turns into a century’s old unsolved murder with ghosts included. Star crossed love, the roaring twenties and lots of magical fun make this story a perfect way to ring in the new year!
I received an advance review copy from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What a wonderful story, a mystery that all starts when Harper and Bella find an old photo. What starts as prep for a New Year’s Eve bash turns into a century’s old unsolved murder with ghosts included. Star crossed love, the roaring twenties and lots of magical fun make this story a perfect way to ring in the new year!
I received an advance review copy from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 20, 2024
The Riddle at the Revelry - Book 4
Another great adventure with Harper in the most magical location.
They are getting ready for the New Year celebrations, and discover a fantastic secret looking for decorations.
Very exciting adventure evolves from evolves from this and a great mystery search begins. Would be exciting for anyone and also a bit scary. But of course with the help of friends everything is wonderfully solved.
Enjoyed this wonderful cozy mystery.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Another great adventure with Harper in the most magical location.
They are getting ready for the New Year celebrations, and discover a fantastic secret looking for decorations.
Very exciting adventure evolves from evolves from this and a great mystery search begins. Would be exciting for anyone and also a bit scary. But of course with the help of friends everything is wonderfully solved.
Enjoyed this wonderful cozy mystery.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 26, 2025
The Riddle at the Revelry from the Havenwood Paranormal Cozy Mysteries was great … truly love these characters and the author’s writing style … cannot wait for more!
January 1, 2025
I received an advanced copy of this book in return for an honest review. This was awesome! The characters draw you in, and the unique New Year's situation made me unable to put the book down! I want to blather on about everything, but I am afraid I will give away spoilers! The writer draws you into the world of Havenwood until you feel you know everyone personally! Harper, Gabriel, Finn, Bella, Spellbooks, and Havenwood all come to life! Do yourself a favor and read this book, this series! I can't wait to see what happens next!
December 20, 2024
What a charming cozy read. Imagine having a bookstore that's sentient. Imagine having a bookstore that conceals hidden rooms, or suddenly churns out seemingly random objects. Well, Harper has just that. Having inherited not only the bookshop, she also "inherited" a familiar, a rather gigantic cat and a teeny tiny dragon! And Harper is one of the most resilient characters, once she focuses on something, she can't let go until she gets to the bottom of it, so when Benny inadvertently appears, yeah, she goes all out to help him. She sure knows how to use her sleuthing abilities, perhaps even more than her magical ones, those she's still finding out about. I really love Harper, she's uncomplicated and easy and caring.
I do love the sense of togetherness the town of Havenwood has, it's a magical town, no, honest, magic as in druids, witches, gargoyles.... and Harper is fitting in more with each passing day. Ok, maybe not EVERYONE is as welcoming but Harper has 2 cool friends in her camp, Bella and Isadora. The preparations for a New Year's bash take a turn, and suddenly, a murder which took place 100 years prior, begs solving. A murder mystery that sucked me into a rabbit hole, my mind churning just as much as Harper's to solve. Taking me to an era gone by, to the roaring 20's, prohibition and speakeasies. When Harper discovers a faded picture, she couldn't have imagined what would transpire. This time round, both Bella and Isadora were instrumental in aiding in the solving of this mystery, which was cool to see both young women so actively involved. I do so enjoy how cool and awesome all the characters are, they feel like childhood friends, comfortable, warm.
What too was cool is the mixture of emotions Harper has concerning Finn and Gabriel, who I like equally. Nah, I'm leaning slightly more on the Gabriel side... he's just so nice! He's patient and although his interest in Harper is palpable, he's not pushy at all. Very sigh worthy. I do still like Finn, but he's a bit... confused... and for the life of me I can't NOT like Seraphina, she's genuine and sweet and, yeah, all round nice lady. Honey and Antonio are sweethearts too, but geez do I salivate over Honey's cooking! I can almost smell and taste her food. What my senses detect and wrap around is this entire story, it's so easy to forget where I am, I'm right there solving riddles, codes, trying to get to the truth. Ms Gray has full command of me as she leads me through runes and magic and mystery and a touch of romance. There's an element of tragedy too but underlying hope and love and a beautiful friendship. Lovely read, just lovely! I'm looking forward to seeing in which direction the love interest veers and I can't wait for more mysteries to land in Harper's lap!
I do love the sense of togetherness the town of Havenwood has, it's a magical town, no, honest, magic as in druids, witches, gargoyles.... and Harper is fitting in more with each passing day. Ok, maybe not EVERYONE is as welcoming but Harper has 2 cool friends in her camp, Bella and Isadora. The preparations for a New Year's bash take a turn, and suddenly, a murder which took place 100 years prior, begs solving. A murder mystery that sucked me into a rabbit hole, my mind churning just as much as Harper's to solve. Taking me to an era gone by, to the roaring 20's, prohibition and speakeasies. When Harper discovers a faded picture, she couldn't have imagined what would transpire. This time round, both Bella and Isadora were instrumental in aiding in the solving of this mystery, which was cool to see both young women so actively involved. I do so enjoy how cool and awesome all the characters are, they feel like childhood friends, comfortable, warm.
What too was cool is the mixture of emotions Harper has concerning Finn and Gabriel, who I like equally. Nah, I'm leaning slightly more on the Gabriel side... he's just so nice! He's patient and although his interest in Harper is palpable, he's not pushy at all. Very sigh worthy. I do still like Finn, but he's a bit... confused... and for the life of me I can't NOT like Seraphina, she's genuine and sweet and, yeah, all round nice lady. Honey and Antonio are sweethearts too, but geez do I salivate over Honey's cooking! I can almost smell and taste her food. What my senses detect and wrap around is this entire story, it's so easy to forget where I am, I'm right there solving riddles, codes, trying to get to the truth. Ms Gray has full command of me as she leads me through runes and magic and mystery and a touch of romance. There's an element of tragedy too but underlying hope and love and a beautiful friendship. Lovely read, just lovely! I'm looking forward to seeing in which direction the love interest veers and I can't wait for more mysteries to land in Harper's lap!
December 22, 2024
This is the 4th book in the Havenwood Mysteries series and they just get better with every book! I received an advance reader copy of Riddle and this review is completely voluntary, and written with joy. In the previous book, Harper was at a Christmas ball. In this installment, Harper is helping her best friend Bella and her parents prepare their bed and breakfast, The Oasis, for a New Year’s Eve gala with a roaring 20s/Las Vegas theme. As Harper looks for costumes for the gala in the attic of her inherited bookstore, Spellbooks, she discovers another of her great-grandmother’s secret stashes. This one contains artifacts from a deceased previous owner of Bella’s B&B who, as it turns out, has a restless spirit that asks Harper to solve the mystery surrounding his century-old demise. Bella and Harper recruit Harper’s next door neighbor (and possible beau?) Finn, and Gabriel, son of the town’s matriarch and someone who would love to be Harper’s beau, to help solve the mystery and also decorate and prepare for the big gala! There is a lot happening in this book, for sure! You’ll have to read the book to find out what happens.
Reading about Havenwood and its magical residents always gives me a smile and a warm feeling. Harper and friends are such delightful people, you know you’d love to hang out with them and share a laugh and an adult beverage (not that they indulge much – don’t want to give the wrong idea here!). The story is complete, and comes to a logical conclusion. For those to whom it matters, there is no bad language and just some flirtation as far as romance goes. As with her other books, L. L. Gray writes with an excellent feel for people and place, and adds just the right amount of character development to allow readers to get to know Harper and friends just as if they were your neighbors. I have such a clear picture of the characters and the town of Havenwood from her descriptions, yet she never allows description to slow down the pace of the action. The books are well edited and they are a fast yet fulfilling read. I recommend starting the series from the beginning, just to help you know the characters and the uniqueness of the town of Havenwood better, but you don’t have to. Each book’s story is complete. But why deprive yourself of the fun of reading them all? If you like mysteries with a bit of magic thrown in and no graphic violence, the Havenwood Cozy Mysteries is the series for you! Bring in the New Year with Harper and friends and read The Riddle at the Revelry!
Reading about Havenwood and its magical residents always gives me a smile and a warm feeling. Harper and friends are such delightful people, you know you’d love to hang out with them and share a laugh and an adult beverage (not that they indulge much – don’t want to give the wrong idea here!). The story is complete, and comes to a logical conclusion. For those to whom it matters, there is no bad language and just some flirtation as far as romance goes. As with her other books, L. L. Gray writes with an excellent feel for people and place, and adds just the right amount of character development to allow readers to get to know Harper and friends just as if they were your neighbors. I have such a clear picture of the characters and the town of Havenwood from her descriptions, yet she never allows description to slow down the pace of the action. The books are well edited and they are a fast yet fulfilling read. I recommend starting the series from the beginning, just to help you know the characters and the uniqueness of the town of Havenwood better, but you don’t have to. Each book’s story is complete. But why deprive yourself of the fun of reading them all? If you like mysteries with a bit of magic thrown in and no graphic violence, the Havenwood Cozy Mysteries is the series for you! Bring in the New Year with Harper and friends and read The Riddle at the Revelry!
December 16, 2024
After the crazy Christmas ball, Harper is ready to close the store and relax by helping Bella set up the New Year's Eve party at the Oasis. After digging through the attic at Spellbooks, they uncover a new theme for Bella's party and a century old mystery. Harper must solve this case while helping plan the party and keeping a volatile ghost happy all at the same time.
Benny O'Rourke was the operator of a speakeasy, The Hideaway, in the 20's. He was murdered in the Hideaway and the crime was never solved. Spellbooks, never one to let Haper be bored, unlocks a secret room with Benny's ghost trapped inside a photo. Now they not only have a murder to solve, but a hidden speakeasy to find as well. With Benny's help, can they figure out "whodunit" before his ghost becomes too powerful and destroys the Hideaway and the Oasis?
This was another fun book in this series! It has a prohibition era theme and I love how Benny really talks the part! It's not only a mystery, but a love story as well. Benny and his gal Clara Silverthorne were in love and didn't care what her father thought! They ran the Hideaway together and planned on marriage, until Benny's murder. And even a century can't dull their love for each other!
Harper has such a can-do attitude and determination. She can't ever let a mystery rest (and I suspect Spellbooks knows this). She’s a very logical and analytical, but she is also very emotional, which can lead her to make decisions that are not the best (Going to see a ghost alone). She is such a lovable character, I can see why she has more than one “love interest”. While nothing happens between her and Gabe or Finn, there is still a decision to be made. This book also features Bella and Isadora, the best friends she could ask for. They both love a good mystery too! And of course we get the sassy Luna putting in her two sense. And she even threatens to break out the ninja headband!
While the last book was like a murder mystery dinner, this book is like an episode of a cold case TV show. It was so much fun going back into the Prohibition Era and solving this crime along side Harper. It really kept me guessing right up to the end!
Benny O'Rourke was the operator of a speakeasy, The Hideaway, in the 20's. He was murdered in the Hideaway and the crime was never solved. Spellbooks, never one to let Haper be bored, unlocks a secret room with Benny's ghost trapped inside a photo. Now they not only have a murder to solve, but a hidden speakeasy to find as well. With Benny's help, can they figure out "whodunit" before his ghost becomes too powerful and destroys the Hideaway and the Oasis?
This was another fun book in this series! It has a prohibition era theme and I love how Benny really talks the part! It's not only a mystery, but a love story as well. Benny and his gal Clara Silverthorne were in love and didn't care what her father thought! They ran the Hideaway together and planned on marriage, until Benny's murder. And even a century can't dull their love for each other!
Harper has such a can-do attitude and determination. She can't ever let a mystery rest (and I suspect Spellbooks knows this). She’s a very logical and analytical, but she is also very emotional, which can lead her to make decisions that are not the best (Going to see a ghost alone). She is such a lovable character, I can see why she has more than one “love interest”. While nothing happens between her and Gabe or Finn, there is still a decision to be made. This book also features Bella and Isadora, the best friends she could ask for. They both love a good mystery too! And of course we get the sassy Luna putting in her two sense. And she even threatens to break out the ninja headband!
While the last book was like a murder mystery dinner, this book is like an episode of a cold case TV show. It was so much fun going back into the Prohibition Era and solving this crime along side Harper. It really kept me guessing right up to the end!
December 29, 2024
The Riddle At The Revelry is the fourth book in Gray's Havenwood Cozy Mystery series. I love this series and the characters she has brought to life with her writing. You don't need to read the others as each one is a standalone mystery, however we learn more about the characters, and their relationships, with each book. I'd therefore recommend starting from the beginning so you can fall in love with Harper Sullivan and her friends and neighbours in Havenwood.
This book is set right before the end of the year and her best friend Bella has asked for her help in planning and organizing the annual New Year's Eve bash at the Oasis. While looking through the myriad of boxes in Spellbook's attic, a secret nook was revealed. Within, she stumbled across a box with a variety of items, including a flask, a notebook, some keys, and a faded photograph. The photograph noted that the gentleman was Benny O'Rourke from back in 1924.
This book melds the preparation for the NYE bash at the Oasis along with Harper's research into who Benny was and why her grandmother kept a photo of him in her attic. (If you're new to the series who should know that Harper never met a mystery she didn't love.) Her investigation takes her to a different time (no, there's no time travel) when Prohibition was in effect and discovers a different side to Havenwood.
I love how Gray walks us through the mystery, slowly revealing pieces of the puzzle. With Harper guiding the way, sometimes there are wrong turns, sometimes you need to double back, but as always, with a little help from her friends, the truth is uncovered. Reading one of the Havenwood mysteries always leaves me with a smile on my face. This one had me somewhat emotional at the end but I won't say more. You'll need to discover these treasures for yourself. Go grab a copy of the first book, The Mystery in the Margins, and delve right in.
It looks like the next release will be in May 2025 when we will be treated to The Heist of the Hidden Heart. Perhaps we can encourage her to write faster; May feels like it is too far away!
This book is set right before the end of the year and her best friend Bella has asked for her help in planning and organizing the annual New Year's Eve bash at the Oasis. While looking through the myriad of boxes in Spellbook's attic, a secret nook was revealed. Within, she stumbled across a box with a variety of items, including a flask, a notebook, some keys, and a faded photograph. The photograph noted that the gentleman was Benny O'Rourke from back in 1924.
This book melds the preparation for the NYE bash at the Oasis along with Harper's research into who Benny was and why her grandmother kept a photo of him in her attic. (If you're new to the series who should know that Harper never met a mystery she didn't love.) Her investigation takes her to a different time (no, there's no time travel) when Prohibition was in effect and discovers a different side to Havenwood.
I love how Gray walks us through the mystery, slowly revealing pieces of the puzzle. With Harper guiding the way, sometimes there are wrong turns, sometimes you need to double back, but as always, with a little help from her friends, the truth is uncovered. Reading one of the Havenwood mysteries always leaves me with a smile on my face. This one had me somewhat emotional at the end but I won't say more. You'll need to discover these treasures for yourself. Go grab a copy of the first book, The Mystery in the Margins, and delve right in.
It looks like the next release will be in May 2025 when we will be treated to The Heist of the Hidden Heart. Perhaps we can encourage her to write faster; May feels like it is too far away!
January 7, 2025
I'll say it once again, this is LL Gray's best one yet except I said that about her last one too. I love how you feel yourself being pulled into the story, like you are there participating with Harper, Isabela, and Bella. LL Gray's attention to detail makes you feel like you are in the room with the characters. Her attention to detail is amazing!
Bella asks Harper and Isabella to help her plan an amazing New Years Eve party. A party no one will ever forget and little did they know it would be a party many of the party goers will never forget for a whole other set of reasons. At first Bella wants to do a Vegas themed party until she and Harper stumble upon Prohibition themed decorations in the attic of Spellbooks. While Harper is searching for other decorations and costumes she stumbles upon a hidden room in Spellbooks where she finds a picture and some keys and some history about a former Speakeasy that was in Havenwood back in the 1920s. Harper gets to researching and involves Bella and Isadora and they uncover where this former speakeasy is, and Harper is thrown a curveball when the man (former owner of said speakeasy) in the photograph begins talking to her. Benny, the ghost from the photograph, explains to Harper that he was murdered and he asks Harper to figure out how he came to his untimely death and what happened to his beloved, Clara, after his death. No easy feat trying to figure out who killed a man who has been dead for one hundred years but that doesn't keep Harper from trying to work it out anyways. Can she save the day before Benny brings the whole speakeasy down on their heads during the NYE party? you'll have to read the book to figure out the ending and it is a whopper. I loved every minute of this book and I can't wait to see what LL Gray has in store for Harper in future novels.
I received an advance copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Bella asks Harper and Isabella to help her plan an amazing New Years Eve party. A party no one will ever forget and little did they know it would be a party many of the party goers will never forget for a whole other set of reasons. At first Bella wants to do a Vegas themed party until she and Harper stumble upon Prohibition themed decorations in the attic of Spellbooks. While Harper is searching for other decorations and costumes she stumbles upon a hidden room in Spellbooks where she finds a picture and some keys and some history about a former Speakeasy that was in Havenwood back in the 1920s. Harper gets to researching and involves Bella and Isadora and they uncover where this former speakeasy is, and Harper is thrown a curveball when the man (former owner of said speakeasy) in the photograph begins talking to her. Benny, the ghost from the photograph, explains to Harper that he was murdered and he asks Harper to figure out how he came to his untimely death and what happened to his beloved, Clara, after his death. No easy feat trying to figure out who killed a man who has been dead for one hundred years but that doesn't keep Harper from trying to work it out anyways. Can she save the day before Benny brings the whole speakeasy down on their heads during the NYE party? you'll have to read the book to figure out the ending and it is a whopper. I loved every minute of this book and I can't wait to see what LL Gray has in store for Harper in future novels.
I received an advance copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 30, 2024
Harper Sullivan is looking forward to a much more relaxing New Years eve celebration after being instrumental in the capture of a couple of extremely dangerous jewel thieves made an appearance at the Christmas Ball. She has had enough excitement for one year. Her best friend Bella is in charge of planning the annual New Years party at her family’s B & B and she has agreed to help. First step is to look through the attic in her book shop. No big deal, she has already discovered that her grandmother usually has something for every occasion stored up there and Vegas/roaring 20’s themed decorations shouldn’t be a stretch. But what she wasn’t prepared for was finding a secret hiding place with a picture of a Havenwood resident who was murdered a hundred years ago. A little research reveals that the photo is of Benny O’Rourke, a former owner of the B & B and operator of The Hideaway, a speakeasy that he opened during the 1920’s prohibition era. Having never met a mystery she didn’t want to solve Harper is determined to discover why Benny was murdered. An interesting mystery turns into a much more dangerous undertaking than Harper could have anticipated.
I absolutely adore Harper, her friends, and the rest of the residents of Havenwood. They are always entertaining and sometimes make me laugh. The characters are unique, and each has a distinct personality that always comes through in this author’s writing. A hundred-year-old murder mystery, magic, suspense, a hint of romance, plenty of twists, and even a happily ever after for one couple. I think this is a must-read book and highly recommend it to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC copy of this book.
I absolutely adore Harper, her friends, and the rest of the residents of Havenwood. They are always entertaining and sometimes make me laugh. The characters are unique, and each has a distinct personality that always comes through in this author’s writing. A hundred-year-old murder mystery, magic, suspense, a hint of romance, plenty of twists, and even a happily ever after for one couple. I think this is a must-read book and highly recommend it to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC copy of this book.
January 7, 2025
The Riddle in the Revelry is so much fun I can hardly believe only a week has passed. Harper finds herself gearing up for New Year’s Eve by helping her friends set up for a huge New Year’s Eve celebration. So what’s a girl to do when she needs great decorations. Go look in the attic because they turned out so well on Halloween. Poor Harper I feel every nook n cranny of the store needs warning labels!
Alas Harper decides to look in the attic originally for Vegas Themed party props this soon morphs into a Probation themed party after Harper continues to read a history book Spellbooks provides.
During the initial search Harper and her friends discover a hidden compartment that has a picture of an unknown young man who apparently ran the first and only speakeasy in Havenwood during prohibition. On top of this exciting discovery they realize Benny as murdered and his speakeasy was hidden underground and might still exist. The hunt then begins to find the murderer and the speakeasy.
This is an excellent fast paced mystery that keeps you turning every page. And I anxiously waited to see who Hatier will pick between Finn and Gabriel. I’m still on team Gabriel because he takes everything in stride and accepts Harper’s decision and doesn’t judge her position of needing to make a choice. Whereas Finn is openly jealous yet clearly has feelings for his ex which makes this decision seem easier for me but in matters of the heart they are what they are. I can’t wait fir the next book to see if Harper takes up Benny’s suggestion to ask the heartwood tree fir advice on love and if she is so inclined Clare left Riddles on her map to help find the tree. So as one chapter ends a new mystery may already be unfolding m. I absolutely love the series so fun!
Alas Harper decides to look in the attic originally for Vegas Themed party props this soon morphs into a Probation themed party after Harper continues to read a history book Spellbooks provides.
During the initial search Harper and her friends discover a hidden compartment that has a picture of an unknown young man who apparently ran the first and only speakeasy in Havenwood during prohibition. On top of this exciting discovery they realize Benny as murdered and his speakeasy was hidden underground and might still exist. The hunt then begins to find the murderer and the speakeasy.
This is an excellent fast paced mystery that keeps you turning every page. And I anxiously waited to see who Hatier will pick between Finn and Gabriel. I’m still on team Gabriel because he takes everything in stride and accepts Harper’s decision and doesn’t judge her position of needing to make a choice. Whereas Finn is openly jealous yet clearly has feelings for his ex which makes this decision seem easier for me but in matters of the heart they are what they are. I can’t wait fir the next book to see if Harper takes up Benny’s suggestion to ask the heartwood tree fir advice on love and if she is so inclined Clare left Riddles on her map to help find the tree. So as one chapter ends a new mystery may already be unfolding m. I absolutely love the series so fun!
December 31, 2024
Harper and her friends are back at it in this New Years themed book. We get to see Bella, Isadora, Ignatius, Gabriel, Finn, and Seraphina more in this book. We have our first ghosts make an appearance in the Havenwood Cozy Mystery series. We meet some new characters – Benny and Clara - They are locked into items using ruins. We have hidden tunnels/passageways, a speakeasy that has been hidden away, murder mystery, and family ties to influential ancestors of Havenwood.
We get to see Ignatius grow a bit and control his fire better. Harper is helping Bella plan the New Year’s Eve party. They are looking for costumes and decorations within Spellbooks storage when they find clues to a hidden speakeasy. When they find a hidden passage to the speakeasy and then they discover Benny. They try to help Benny find out what happened to him since he does not recall. The whole reason behind the hidden speakeasy, the collapsed tunnel, and what happened to Benny leads to a whole lot of questions but not a lot of answers. We then get to meet Clara, and that leads to a bunch more questions that they don’t have any answers for.
Harper and Bella, along with Isadora, try to help Benny try and figure out what happened to him, what happened to the speakeasy, and why the escape tunnel collapsed, along with what happened to Clara.
As in true Havenwood style, the biggest revelations come during the New Year’s Eve party – while the party is going on upstairs. I loved seeing all of the usual characters in this book but also Benny and Clara as well. Benny definitely added some flare to the story. We get to see Finn and Harper mend their friendship a bit but also get to see Gabriel help with research and finding connections to clues.
I loved book 4 in the Havenwood Series!
We get to see Ignatius grow a bit and control his fire better. Harper is helping Bella plan the New Year’s Eve party. They are looking for costumes and decorations within Spellbooks storage when they find clues to a hidden speakeasy. When they find a hidden passage to the speakeasy and then they discover Benny. They try to help Benny find out what happened to him since he does not recall. The whole reason behind the hidden speakeasy, the collapsed tunnel, and what happened to Benny leads to a whole lot of questions but not a lot of answers. We then get to meet Clara, and that leads to a bunch more questions that they don’t have any answers for.
Harper and Bella, along with Isadora, try to help Benny try and figure out what happened to him, what happened to the speakeasy, and why the escape tunnel collapsed, along with what happened to Clara.
As in true Havenwood style, the biggest revelations come during the New Year’s Eve party – while the party is going on upstairs. I loved seeing all of the usual characters in this book but also Benny and Clara as well. Benny definitely added some flare to the story. We get to see Finn and Harper mend their friendship a bit but also get to see Gabriel help with research and finding connections to clues.
I loved book 4 in the Havenwood Series!
December 27, 2024
🎉 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑹𝒊𝒅𝒅𝒍𝒆 𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒍𝒓𝒚 by 𝑳.𝑳. 𝑮𝒓𝒂𝒚 💜
𝐀𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐚𝐧 𝐮𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐦𝐚𝐬, 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐚 𝐛𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭! However not that literally! Or so she thought...
Amidst the glittering lights, Harper uncovers a murder mystery that has haunted the town for decades. Will she be able to find a solution for this murder, or or will she become the town’s newest specter?
This story is just amazing! After The Secret of the Silver Serpent, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book! Hoping to just read more about Harper and her adventures! 🤩
It's such a nice easy reading, full of action, adventure and fantasy, that I could not put it down! The writing allows us to enter a unique and spectacular world, with funny and special people!
We don't even need the characters to speak, we feel the tension, the happiness, the friendship and all the possible relationships! 💜
Maybe that's why I'm wholly team Gabriel (I agree with you Isadora, they are the most perfect match to ever have exist!) 😍
I received an advance review copy for free from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I can't wait for the next one (The Heist of the Hidden Heart)... 🩷 These books are a complete art! ⭐️ Five stars are not enough to tell you how much I loved it!
"𝑻𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒂𝒔𝒏'𝒕 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒂𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒘𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒏 - 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒂 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒍𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒃𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒆𝒔, 𝒐𝒇 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒚𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒚, 𝒐𝒇 𝒏𝒆𝒘 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆𝒔 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕. 𝑰 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅𝒏'𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒊𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒆𝒅."
𝐀𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐚𝐧 𝐮𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐦𝐚𝐬, 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐚 𝐛𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭! However not that literally! Or so she thought...
Amidst the glittering lights, Harper uncovers a murder mystery that has haunted the town for decades. Will she be able to find a solution for this murder, or or will she become the town’s newest specter?
This story is just amazing! After The Secret of the Silver Serpent, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book! Hoping to just read more about Harper and her adventures! 🤩
It's such a nice easy reading, full of action, adventure and fantasy, that I could not put it down! The writing allows us to enter a unique and spectacular world, with funny and special people!
We don't even need the characters to speak, we feel the tension, the happiness, the friendship and all the possible relationships! 💜
Maybe that's why I'm wholly team Gabriel (I agree with you Isadora, they are the most perfect match to ever have exist!) 😍
I received an advance review copy for free from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I can't wait for the next one (The Heist of the Hidden Heart)... 🩷 These books are a complete art! ⭐️ Five stars are not enough to tell you how much I loved it!
"𝑻𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒂𝒔𝒏'𝒕 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒂𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒘𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒏 - 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒂 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒍𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒃𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒆𝒔, 𝒐𝒇 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒚𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒚, 𝒐𝒇 𝒏𝒆𝒘 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆𝒔 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕. 𝑰 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅𝒏'𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒊𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒆𝒅."
December 30, 2024
A New Year's Eve to remember!
Harper's looking forward to a few quiet days for the end of the year, with her biggest plans being to help best friend Bella set up for the annual New Year's party at the Enchanted Oasis, Bella's family's B&B.
If you've read previous books in this series, well we both know better than to think that plan's even close to what actually happens! No, we end up with an angry ghost and a prohibition-era murder that Harper must solve before said ghost wreaks havoc on the whole town. All because Harper was looking for some Vegas-themed party supplies in Spellbook's attic (she should know better by now!).
But it does end with a spectacular prohibition-themed party, a happy ghost, and a fabulous new attraction for the Oasis. But first Harper get to practice more of her magic (she's stronger than she knows!), spend more time with Gabriel (will they ever be more than friends?), and yes even have some fun!
I am very much enjoying getting to know Harper and her friends as she learns more about herself and her magic and her new home (both the town and her apparently mischievous bookstore!). I was also thrilled to see her little dragon Ignatius make an appearance! Even if he did nap most of the time. He's gotten his fire under control and Spellbook's allowed him inside! I'm hoping in the future he might even help Harper investigate.
All in all another amazing book in this series. Definitely recommend.
I received a free advanced review copy of this book and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Harper's looking forward to a few quiet days for the end of the year, with her biggest plans being to help best friend Bella set up for the annual New Year's party at the Enchanted Oasis, Bella's family's B&B.
If you've read previous books in this series, well we both know better than to think that plan's even close to what actually happens! No, we end up with an angry ghost and a prohibition-era murder that Harper must solve before said ghost wreaks havoc on the whole town. All because Harper was looking for some Vegas-themed party supplies in Spellbook's attic (she should know better by now!).
But it does end with a spectacular prohibition-themed party, a happy ghost, and a fabulous new attraction for the Oasis. But first Harper get to practice more of her magic (she's stronger than she knows!), spend more time with Gabriel (will they ever be more than friends?), and yes even have some fun!
I am very much enjoying getting to know Harper and her friends as she learns more about herself and her magic and her new home (both the town and her apparently mischievous bookstore!). I was also thrilled to see her little dragon Ignatius make an appearance! Even if he did nap most of the time. He's gotten his fire under control and Spellbook's allowed him inside! I'm hoping in the future he might even help Harper investigate.
All in all another amazing book in this series. Definitely recommend.
I received a free advanced review copy of this book and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
December 17, 2024
Best mystery of the series so far!
I read The Riddle at the Revelry immediately after finishing The Secret of the Silver Serpent, and I love how Harper is upping her detective game.
The mystery in this one is really good and it was fun diving into the past to solve it. The new characters were interesting and fun. I liked Benny and Clara and their story was tragically nice. It was really cool to see Harper use her magic to
I love Harper's friendships with Bella and Isa, and it was great seeing them work together with a few others to throw an awesome party and solve the case.
👩❤️👨 Romance Spoilers
I read The Riddle at the Revelry immediately after finishing The Secret of the Silver Serpent, and I love how Harper is upping her detective game.
The mystery in this one is really good and it was fun diving into the past to solve it. The new characters were interesting and fun. I liked Benny and Clara and their story was tragically nice. It was really cool to see Harper use her magic to
I love Harper's friendships with Bella and Isa, and it was great seeing them work together with a few others to throw an awesome party and solve the case.
👩❤️👨 Romance Spoilers
December 31, 2024
I received an advance review copy (ARC) & I am leaving this voluntary, honest review.
The excitement of Christmas has passed and Harper is preparing to help her dear friend Bella usher in the new year.
The theme for the New Year's party Bella has been given permission to host soon becomes agreed upon once it's discovered that the bed and breakfast owned by Bella's parents was a very popular, albeit illegal, speakeasy bar during Prohibition.
All well and good, and enough material for a story to be sure, but it wouldn't be Havenwood without some mystery and surprises.
Which leads us to Benny, the original proprietor of the Hideaway, as it was known back then, sadly now a ghost trapped in a photo and wondering what became of his love and partner, the lovely Clara Silverthorne, a relative of Gabriel and his family.
What unfolds is a twisted tale of love and secrets and as usual, since it was somehow her fault for unintentionally awakening Benny from whatever sort of magical sleep her Granny Bea had placed him under, Harper is determined to help Benny find answers about what happened to him and Clara.
With each adventure we find Harper slowly coming to accept that using magic, at least within Havenwood, is commonplace, and despite her own feelings that her gift is a minor one, others assure it is quite special.
With each installment, Harper becomes more comfortable in her surroundings and Havenwood becomes more familiar, a place I want to go back to again and again.
Looking forward to seeing what the new year holds for the intrepid bookshop owner/amateur detective. Maybe we'll get a Harry Potter crossover & the sorting hat will help her decide where she belongs, on team Finn, or team Gabriel.
The excitement of Christmas has passed and Harper is preparing to help her dear friend Bella usher in the new year.
The theme for the New Year's party Bella has been given permission to host soon becomes agreed upon once it's discovered that the bed and breakfast owned by Bella's parents was a very popular, albeit illegal, speakeasy bar during Prohibition.
All well and good, and enough material for a story to be sure, but it wouldn't be Havenwood without some mystery and surprises.
Which leads us to Benny, the original proprietor of the Hideaway, as it was known back then, sadly now a ghost trapped in a photo and wondering what became of his love and partner, the lovely Clara Silverthorne, a relative of Gabriel and his family.
What unfolds is a twisted tale of love and secrets and as usual, since it was somehow her fault for unintentionally awakening Benny from whatever sort of magical sleep her Granny Bea had placed him under, Harper is determined to help Benny find answers about what happened to him and Clara.
With each adventure we find Harper slowly coming to accept that using magic, at least within Havenwood, is commonplace, and despite her own feelings that her gift is a minor one, others assure it is quite special.
With each installment, Harper becomes more comfortable in her surroundings and Havenwood becomes more familiar, a place I want to go back to again and again.
Looking forward to seeing what the new year holds for the intrepid bookshop owner/amateur detective. Maybe we'll get a Harry Potter crossover & the sorting hat will help her decide where she belongs, on team Finn, or team Gabriel.
January 2, 2025
The new year is almost upon the town of Havenwood and Harper is ready to close up Spellbooks for a few days to take a short break. What better time then to help Bella and her family throw a big New Year’s Eve party at their B&B, the Oasis. While searching through Spellbooks attic for some party decorations, Harper stumbles upon a spellbound ghost and a 100 year old unsolved mystery.
I think this may have been the best book yet. I love idea of a prohibition themed party and I find the idea of hidden passages and rooms intriguing. I found the mystery to be suspenseful and I always enjoy seeing how Harper’s mind works as she slowly unravels a mystery. The author excels at painting a vivid picture and you can practically feel the characters’ emotions leap off the page and straight into your heart. The love triangle is still unresolved and I feel that both Gabriel and Finn each appeal to a different part of Harper so I can understand her difficult choice. I always enjoy returning to Havenwood, with its engaging and quirky characters. It always gives me a cozy feeling and I love the close knit community vibe. If you enjoy an intriguing mystery, engaging characters, and a charming magical small town atmosphere, then I definitely recommend this series. I, for one, can’t wait for my next trip to Havenwood.
I think this may have been the best book yet. I love idea of a prohibition themed party and I find the idea of hidden passages and rooms intriguing. I found the mystery to be suspenseful and I always enjoy seeing how Harper’s mind works as she slowly unravels a mystery. The author excels at painting a vivid picture and you can practically feel the characters’ emotions leap off the page and straight into your heart. The love triangle is still unresolved and I feel that both Gabriel and Finn each appeal to a different part of Harper so I can understand her difficult choice. I always enjoy returning to Havenwood, with its engaging and quirky characters. It always gives me a cozy feeling and I love the close knit community vibe. If you enjoy an intriguing mystery, engaging characters, and a charming magical small town atmosphere, then I definitely recommend this series. I, for one, can’t wait for my next trip to Havenwood.
February 5, 2025
I liked that Gabriel and Harper spent so much time together trying to solve this mystery, but I am a hopeless romantic, so I wished there was more romantic scenes between them instead of more awkwardness with Finn. I would have loved a New Year’s kiss between Harper and Gabriel.
I liked that this book pulled the three girls together more and we got to see a lot of best friend moments where Harper and Bella started including Isadora more as well since she’s their new friend.
I knew what the location of the speakeasy would be when they started talking about it in the beginning of the book, but that’s about all I could anticipate through the whole thing. This was the best mystery yet! It was filled with “How is that possible?” and “What does that mean?” moments.
It wasn’t the classic mystery full of twists and turns, it was written as an amazing mystery where every clue you find only gives you more questions you don’t have answers to. The mystery dragged on through the whole book, where more little clues were found and I thought something was finally going to be revealed or give us a lead to what went on, but more questions and mysteries arose instead. It really made the reveal at the end very exciting.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked that this book pulled the three girls together more and we got to see a lot of best friend moments where Harper and Bella started including Isadora more as well since she’s their new friend.
I knew what the location of the speakeasy would be when they started talking about it in the beginning of the book, but that’s about all I could anticipate through the whole thing. This was the best mystery yet! It was filled with “How is that possible?” and “What does that mean?” moments.
It wasn’t the classic mystery full of twists and turns, it was written as an amazing mystery where every clue you find only gives you more questions you don’t have answers to. The mystery dragged on through the whole book, where more little clues were found and I thought something was finally going to be revealed or give us a lead to what went on, but more questions and mysteries arose instead. It really made the reveal at the end very exciting.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 18, 2024
Arc copy, release date Dec 31
After the busy Christmas, Harper is set to relax and enjoy a few days off. But when deciding to help Bella plan the New Years party, a visit to Spellbooks attic for costumes brings up some old information on a Prohibition speakeasy and a murder.
After the ghost of the murdered man appears to give some of a background story, Harper and Bella search for the hidden bar. Once it’s found, more of the mystery is uncovered.
This book has an excellent mystery with a good background set in the 1920’s. There is a peak into the running of a speakeasy, a love story with lots of things against it, magic, humour, suspense and surprises.
The search for answers in a 100-year-old murder with the only clues are undecipherable runes make this a big challenge.
With help from her friends, Harper has her work set out, but she is getting better at solving problems each book.
She still has the problem of deciding between Finn and Gabriel (I’m rooting for Gabriel), but that makes it even more interesting.
Luna is not very prominent in this book but when she is around, her is her adorable, bossy self.
This is a quick, easy, fun read with the best mystery of the series so far.
I loved it and it’s definitely a book and series I will highly recommend.
After the busy Christmas, Harper is set to relax and enjoy a few days off. But when deciding to help Bella plan the New Years party, a visit to Spellbooks attic for costumes brings up some old information on a Prohibition speakeasy and a murder.
After the ghost of the murdered man appears to give some of a background story, Harper and Bella search for the hidden bar. Once it’s found, more of the mystery is uncovered.
This book has an excellent mystery with a good background set in the 1920’s. There is a peak into the running of a speakeasy, a love story with lots of things against it, magic, humour, suspense and surprises.
The search for answers in a 100-year-old murder with the only clues are undecipherable runes make this a big challenge.
With help from her friends, Harper has her work set out, but she is getting better at solving problems each book.
She still has the problem of deciding between Finn and Gabriel (I’m rooting for Gabriel), but that makes it even more interesting.
Luna is not very prominent in this book but when she is around, her is her adorable, bossy self.
This is a quick, easy, fun read with the best mystery of the series so far.
I loved it and it’s definitely a book and series I will highly recommend.
December 30, 2024
The Riddle at the Revelry by L.L Gray
“The Best Secrets are the ones we share.” This sentence does a good job describing the cozy, magical mystery that awaits you and you’ll see this refrain a few times in this new book in the Havenwood series. As usual Liz does an excellent job of starting off gradually, building up the background of the plot and filling it in with meticulous care. Once again we find Harper thrown into a mystery; this one unfolding around the planning and execution of her best friend Bella’s New Year’s Eve party at her parents Inn, the Oasis.
Once the Prohibition theme is established and the girls trek to the bookshop’s magical attic, the fun and mystery begin. From flappers, to a hidden speakeasy, to bootlegged booze and murder, you’ll fly through the pages as Harper puts the puzzle pieces together at the last minute before the stroke of midnight. Ghosts, magical runes, metallurgical powers and more romp through this cozy story. Just when you think Harper’s path has been decided upon, romantically, we still find her between Finn and Gabriel. I think the ending advice from a ghost might help her finally make up her mind. But to find out, we’ll have to read the next installment.
“The Best Secrets are the ones we share.” This sentence does a good job describing the cozy, magical mystery that awaits you and you’ll see this refrain a few times in this new book in the Havenwood series. As usual Liz does an excellent job of starting off gradually, building up the background of the plot and filling it in with meticulous care. Once again we find Harper thrown into a mystery; this one unfolding around the planning and execution of her best friend Bella’s New Year’s Eve party at her parents Inn, the Oasis.
Once the Prohibition theme is established and the girls trek to the bookshop’s magical attic, the fun and mystery begin. From flappers, to a hidden speakeasy, to bootlegged booze and murder, you’ll fly through the pages as Harper puts the puzzle pieces together at the last minute before the stroke of midnight. Ghosts, magical runes, metallurgical powers and more romp through this cozy story. Just when you think Harper’s path has been decided upon, romantically, we still find her between Finn and Gabriel. I think the ending advice from a ghost might help her finally make up her mind. But to find out, we’ll have to read the next installment.
January 29, 2025
First, I have to say, I don’t know how L. L. Gray does it, but this is the best book yet!
After the events of the Christmas ball, Harper is taking a few days to rest and relax before the New Year. Bella, her bestie, ropes her into helping plan the New Year’s party at the Enchanted Oasis, and that’s where the excitement begins!
An erratic and unstable ghost, a prohibition romance to rival Romeo and Juliet’s, and a mystery that needs to be solved to set things right and keep The Enchanted Oasis in one piece. What more could Harper ask for as she ring’s in the New Year?
I honestly can’t pick a favourite part of this book because it was just all woven together so well that ALL of it was fabulous. It was an absolutely riveting read, and even when I had to put it down, I was still thinking about it!
Almost the whole cast of characters are there, although Luna definitely gets less page time. For the most part, it’s an opportunity to get to know all the characters on a deeper level as they navigate the mystery - and the ghost - the best they can.
The mystery itself held me in its grip as I tried to work it out before the characters did, but I failed, and when all was revealed it was so much more interesting than anything I had come up with. It’s wrapped up so perfectly for the story, and L. L. Gray does a fantastic job finding the right ending for everyone involved.
Of course, the love triangle offers some fantastic moments and definite deliberation on Harper’s part. I find my Team Finn status is becoming endangered because, well, Gabriel Silverthorne 😍 *swoon*
Whatever happens next in 💗The Heist of the Hidden Heart💗 is going to have me glued to the page!
After the events of the Christmas ball, Harper is taking a few days to rest and relax before the New Year. Bella, her bestie, ropes her into helping plan the New Year’s party at the Enchanted Oasis, and that’s where the excitement begins!
An erratic and unstable ghost, a prohibition romance to rival Romeo and Juliet’s, and a mystery that needs to be solved to set things right and keep The Enchanted Oasis in one piece. What more could Harper ask for as she ring’s in the New Year?
I honestly can’t pick a favourite part of this book because it was just all woven together so well that ALL of it was fabulous. It was an absolutely riveting read, and even when I had to put it down, I was still thinking about it!
Almost the whole cast of characters are there, although Luna definitely gets less page time. For the most part, it’s an opportunity to get to know all the characters on a deeper level as they navigate the mystery - and the ghost - the best they can.
The mystery itself held me in its grip as I tried to work it out before the characters did, but I failed, and when all was revealed it was so much more interesting than anything I had come up with. It’s wrapped up so perfectly for the story, and L. L. Gray does a fantastic job finding the right ending for everyone involved.
Of course, the love triangle offers some fantastic moments and definite deliberation on Harper’s part. I find my Team Finn status is becoming endangered because, well, Gabriel Silverthorne 😍 *swoon*
Whatever happens next in 💗The Heist of the Hidden Heart💗 is going to have me glued to the page!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2024
Well told tale!
In this book, as Bella's family is about to host a New Year's Eve party, Harper finds some things in her attic that turn the whole concept upside down and bring a mystery for her and her friends to solve.
I really enjoy this series - wonderful, very relatable characters. humor thanks to the talking rabbit, Luna, and the adorable dragon, friendship, magic, some romance, lovely imagery, and a fascinating mystery. You can read this without reading the previous books in the series, but for the best feel for the character development, and your general enjoyment, read them all in order!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
My only issue, which takes this from a high 5 to a low 5 rating for me, is something I also found in the previous book - the overuse of catchphrases including "as if" "like" and "weight". I find these to be an annoying gimmick that seems to be used by a lot of writers. This would be an excellent book without them, and I hope the author will consider this in the next book in the series, which I look forward to!
In this book, as Bella's family is about to host a New Year's Eve party, Harper finds some things in her attic that turn the whole concept upside down and bring a mystery for her and her friends to solve.
I really enjoy this series - wonderful, very relatable characters. humor thanks to the talking rabbit, Luna, and the adorable dragon, friendship, magic, some romance, lovely imagery, and a fascinating mystery. You can read this without reading the previous books in the series, but for the best feel for the character development, and your general enjoyment, read them all in order!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
My only issue, which takes this from a high 5 to a low 5 rating for me, is something I also found in the previous book - the overuse of catchphrases including "as if" "like" and "weight". I find these to be an annoying gimmick that seems to be used by a lot of writers. This would be an excellent book without them, and I hope the author will consider this in the next book in the series, which I look forward to!
January 13, 2025
This might've been my favorite Havenwood yet. I was on edge with Benny. I was torn between Finn and Gabriel- though I think I'm solidly Team Gabriel at this point. I'm slightly disappointed this fiesta wasn't scheduled for earlier in December- Like REPEAL DAY- but I'm biased, because we like to have repeal day parties- where we hide the alcohol (in the food-think pasta a la vodka, bourbon chocolate chip cookies, margarita bars).
Anyway, I received this as an arc, but my opinion is entirely my own. I love these books and I'm grateful to be part of this arc team.
This episode of Havenwood also occurs primarily outside of Spellbooks- though Spellbooks started the drama. I'll be interested to see the next focus more on the bookish. I loved the Chaos in the Chronicles connection to literature. Also, this party did not feature the Puddletons- and I can't say I'm disappointed by that, though it is always fun to see them get their comeuppance.
I recommend this to anyone who loves cozies, loves books and loves a little magic. Can't wait to see where we go next. I'm hopeful to see some of the original creatures from Mystery in the Margins reappear.
Anyway, I received this as an arc, but my opinion is entirely my own. I love these books and I'm grateful to be part of this arc team.
This episode of Havenwood also occurs primarily outside of Spellbooks- though Spellbooks started the drama. I'll be interested to see the next focus more on the bookish. I loved the Chaos in the Chronicles connection to literature. Also, this party did not feature the Puddletons- and I can't say I'm disappointed by that, though it is always fun to see them get their comeuppance.
I recommend this to anyone who loves cozies, loves books and loves a little magic. Can't wait to see where we go next. I'm hopeful to see some of the original creatures from Mystery in the Margins reappear.
January 11, 2025
When Belle asks Harper to help plan her family's New Year's Eve bash, she readily agreed. Belle was thinking about a Vegas theme, but ultimately they settled on Prohibition. Then, after Harper uncovered information about a former speakeasy in Havenwood, and the unsolved murder of the club's owner, they changed the theme to Speakeasy. What if they could discover the location of the original speakeasy, they both thought? This starts them on their next adventure, one that is even more exciting and dangerous than the previous jewel heist! I love this series, and the magic and unique characters that permeate the story throughout. I enjoy how Harper's confidence in her own magic abilities keeps growing, as she finds new ways to incorporate this talent in her "detective" cases. I also can't wait to see a solution to her quandary about Finn versus Gabriel (although I already know who I am rooting for). I am looking forward to the next book in this series. Disclosure: I am voluntarily reviewing this book and all opinions are strictly my own.
January 19, 2025
LL Gray does it again! It was my pleasure to be back in Havenwood and reconnect with Harper. Once again, I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery and paranormal aspects of this story. This time, the mystery unfolds when Harper discovers hidden items in a secret compartment in Spellbooks’ attic, unwittingly reactivating the ghost of Benny, who ran a hidden speakeasy in the town during the days of prohibition. It quickly becomes clear that Benny was murdered, and Harper is determined to find out who the murderer was in exchange for the location of the speakeasy.
The plot held my attention fully as I embraced all the threads of the story. Just like Harper, discovering who the murderer was and understanding why it happened took me a long while. Secret passages, bootleg gin, books written in code, and magical runes all made for an entertaining read. Harper’s place in Havenwood has developed to hold a steady circle of friends, along with a love triangle! Now, I shall have to wait impatiently for the next instalment.
The plot held my attention fully as I embraced all the threads of the story. Just like Harper, discovering who the murderer was and understanding why it happened took me a long while. Secret passages, bootleg gin, books written in code, and magical runes all made for an entertaining read. Harper’s place in Havenwood has developed to hold a steady circle of friends, along with a love triangle! Now, I shall have to wait impatiently for the next instalment.
December 13, 2024
The Riddle at the Revelry by L L Gray
This was such a fun and cozy book! I enjoyed the century old murder mystery. I’m starting to think its not safe for Harper to go into the attic ever again. I liked the addition of ghosts to the list of normal paranormals in Havenwood. I’ve grown so attached to these characters over the past four books, so this love triangle is KILLING me! I thought it was fun that the New Year’s party pretty much got turned into a murder mystery party. The roaring twenties is my favorite part of history to read about, so I loved the prohibition theme. I love going to speakeasy themed bars, so I enjoyed that there was a hunt for an actual speakeasy in this book. The love story between Benny and Clara was heartbreaking. I was also glad to see the return of Ignatius in this book. I can’t wait to see what Havenwood has in store for us next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was such a fun and cozy book! I enjoyed the century old murder mystery. I’m starting to think its not safe for Harper to go into the attic ever again. I liked the addition of ghosts to the list of normal paranormals in Havenwood. I’ve grown so attached to these characters over the past four books, so this love triangle is KILLING me! I thought it was fun that the New Year’s party pretty much got turned into a murder mystery party. The roaring twenties is my favorite part of history to read about, so I loved the prohibition theme. I love going to speakeasy themed bars, so I enjoyed that there was a hunt for an actual speakeasy in this book. The love story between Benny and Clara was heartbreaking. I was also glad to see the return of Ignatius in this book. I can’t wait to see what Havenwood has in store for us next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 28, 2024
4.5⭐️ rounded up to 5⭐️
With Christmas over and done with, Harper closes Spellbooks until the new year and prepares to help her friend Bella with organising a new year party with a 1920s prohibition theme.
While searching the attic of Spellbooks for party decorations and props Harper discovers a secret panel hiding a photo of an unforgotten speakeasy owner, log books and keys, and in doing so releases and traps a ghost into the photo.
This is an excellent mystery and ghost story from 100 years ago intertwined with modern day Havenwood. Can Harper and friends work out what happened to Benny the owner, Clara his lady and discover who killed Benny a century ago.
I thoroughly enjoyed this return to Havenwood. Quite fitting that a book that is partially set 100 years ago is my 100th book of 2024. Talk about leaving a year on a high!
With thanks to LL Gray for the free arc copy of this book. I leave my review voluntarily.
With Christmas over and done with, Harper closes Spellbooks until the new year and prepares to help her friend Bella with organising a new year party with a 1920s prohibition theme.
While searching the attic of Spellbooks for party decorations and props Harper discovers a secret panel hiding a photo of an unforgotten speakeasy owner, log books and keys, and in doing so releases and traps a ghost into the photo.
This is an excellent mystery and ghost story from 100 years ago intertwined with modern day Havenwood. Can Harper and friends work out what happened to Benny the owner, Clara his lady and discover who killed Benny a century ago.
I thoroughly enjoyed this return to Havenwood. Quite fitting that a book that is partially set 100 years ago is my 100th book of 2024. Talk about leaving a year on a high!
With thanks to LL Gray for the free arc copy of this book. I leave my review voluntarily.
January 5, 2025
The Havenwood mysteries keep getting better with each new book!
I've enjoyed each holiday puzzle with Harper and her magical besties. This one feels a bit different (in a good way) from the others. It could partly be that we don't spend as much time in Harper's bookstore. It plays a good sized role, just not as much time in the bookstore with Luna the talking rabbit and the sleepy main coon cat.
I loved spending more time in a secret, forgotten, well, I can't divulge alllll the details. Suffice it to say there's lots more sleuthing and uncovering of forgotten mysteries of Havenwood. I do hope there will be a Valentine puzzle with a little more romance for Harper...her two possible suitors showed up well in this puzzle, but I'm definitely interested to see if she ends up with either of them.
Grab a beverage, a snack and get comfortable learning more about Havenwood and solving the riddle before the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve!
I've enjoyed each holiday puzzle with Harper and her magical besties. This one feels a bit different (in a good way) from the others. It could partly be that we don't spend as much time in Harper's bookstore. It plays a good sized role, just not as much time in the bookstore with Luna the talking rabbit and the sleepy main coon cat.
I loved spending more time in a secret, forgotten, well, I can't divulge alllll the details. Suffice it to say there's lots more sleuthing and uncovering of forgotten mysteries of Havenwood. I do hope there will be a Valentine puzzle with a little more romance for Harper...her two possible suitors showed up well in this puzzle, but I'm definitely interested to see if she ends up with either of them.
Grab a beverage, a snack and get comfortable learning more about Havenwood and solving the riddle before the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve!
February 1, 2025
I have previously talked about the other three books in this series and have given them all 5 stars. However, this one fell a little short of what I expected and I found it a bit difficult to get into it at the start. There were also moments when I was questioning Harper’s intelligence on very obvious things.
That said, this is the first murder mystery in the series, and it was absolutely intriguing! It was fun watching Harper and her team solve yet another case. And I love how her team just keeps growing as we move forward!
Also, Ignatius is back! I missed him so much in the last book. I really do wish that we would have got to see him a little more than we did tho.
And the love triangle just keeps getting more interesting, however, I have to say that I’m a little biased towards Gabriel. You just can’t not love a man who knows what he wants without doubt!
Thank you to Book Sirens and Author L.L. Gray for the ARC✨
That said, this is the first murder mystery in the series, and it was absolutely intriguing! It was fun watching Harper and her team solve yet another case. And I love how her team just keeps growing as we move forward!
Also, Ignatius is back! I missed him so much in the last book. I really do wish that we would have got to see him a little more than we did tho.
And the love triangle just keeps getting more interesting, however, I have to say that I’m a little biased towards Gabriel. You just can’t not love a man who knows what he wants without doubt!
Thank you to Book Sirens and Author L.L. Gray for the ARC✨
February 21, 2025
A wonderful cozy mystery with a mystery from the past for Harper and co to solve!
Harper is helping her friend Bella plan a New Year's Eve party with Isadora. Naturally, Harper finds a mystery to solve and this time, it's a doozy! Harper is on a count down to solve a mystery and free a ghost trapped in a photo before it's too late.
I loved the 1920s vibe and slang in used in the story. It was a fun change from the more contemporary vibe. The inclusion of the Speakeasy being hidden away was a neat twist in the Havenwood world building. It was incredibly detailed (from the bar to the piano and the escape tunnel) and I could picture myself being there and definitely want to take a trip there!
This is a standalone story in a series, and can be enjoyed by itself, but I do recommend reading the other books in order first! It's a perfect cozy mystery with twists and turns, and is pretty clean with no explicit dialogue and only a minor injury.
Harper is helping her friend Bella plan a New Year's Eve party with Isadora. Naturally, Harper finds a mystery to solve and this time, it's a doozy! Harper is on a count down to solve a mystery and free a ghost trapped in a photo before it's too late.
I loved the 1920s vibe and slang in used in the story. It was a fun change from the more contemporary vibe. The inclusion of the Speakeasy being hidden away was a neat twist in the Havenwood world building. It was incredibly detailed (from the bar to the piano and the escape tunnel) and I could picture myself being there and definitely want to take a trip there!
This is a standalone story in a series, and can be enjoyed by itself, but I do recommend reading the other books in order first! It's a perfect cozy mystery with twists and turns, and is pretty clean with no explicit dialogue and only a minor injury.
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