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A Green Witch Mystery #2
Pack of Lies: A Green Witch Mystery
'Losing your head' just got a lot more literal.
Green witch Rhianne Alkenn has her hands full with not one, but two puzzling cases. A leak of confidential information threatens the Moonshadow pack, putting her best friend, incubus Nel, in a tight spot! And the elven Queen's best friend has been murdered. Rhianne's hoping to solve the murder and quickly, because the phrase 'Off with her head' is playing on repeat in her mind!
With the help of the enigmatic coroner Isobel, and her tech mage boyfriend Kai, Rhianne sets up to find out the truth.
Her mission? Clear Nel's name and keep her head firmly on her shoulders. Sounds simple enough, right? What could possibly go wrong?
***
If you enjoy books by K M Shea, Heather G. Harris and Kim Harrison, then you’ll love this riveting urban fantasy story with a touch of humour and romance.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 3, 2024
290 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
About the author
P.L. Matthews
9 books35 followersI love crafting stories that blend humour and romance, featuring strong and vibrant characters. Themes of family, friendship, and personal growth are at the heart of my writing. In my stories, I believe in embracing the light because life is too short for darkness.
When the waves are just right—warm and gentle—I fearlessly plunge into the ocean, catching waves like a pro surfer (lots of splashing anyway). Surfing is my sanctuary and my sweet escape.
The piano is my favourite instrument, but my persuasive husband encouraged me to pick up a guitar and learn to strum along (he needed someone to play the chorus). To my surprise, I now rock the guitar, (enthusiasm counts, right?) playing and singing along to my favourite tunes.
So, if you're ready for a spellbinding journey through the realms of urban fantasy and murder mysteries, buckle up and dive into my captivating stories. Prepare to be transported to a world where supernatural beings walk among us and the line between reality and fantasy blurs in the most mesmerising ways.
When the waves are just right—warm and gentle—I fearlessly plunge into the ocean, catching waves like a pro surfer (lots of splashing anyway). Surfing is my sanctuary and my sweet escape.
The piano is my favourite instrument, but my persuasive husband encouraged me to pick up a guitar and learn to strum along (he needed someone to play the chorus). To my surprise, I now rock the guitar, (enthusiasm counts, right?) playing and singing along to my favourite tunes.
So, if you're ready for a spellbinding journey through the realms of urban fantasy and murder mysteries, buckle up and dive into my captivating stories. Prepare to be transported to a world where supernatural beings walk among us and the line between reality and fantasy blurs in the most mesmerising ways.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
April 3, 2025
A fun sequel I’m the series all the regulars are back and Rhianne’s elven side is featured more prominently with a visit to their world at the request of the queen to solve a murder. The second mystery involves a leak at Nels club as a local pack gets ready to chose a successor. It was awesome to see Kai and Rhi’s relationship developing, Togo is still an enigma and Nel is well Nell. Overall this was a well paced booked and both mysteries flowed well around each other so the book wasn’t disjointed. 👍🏾👍🏾
January 7, 2024
Pack of Lies is the second book in the A Green Witch Mystery series. This book continues on two months after Poisoned Leaves (book one). Rhianne is a green witch halfling who is also half elf, a fact not many people knew up until recently. She runs her own lawn care business, though that isn't present much in this book. She also has consulted with law enforcement in the past.
This time we get to meet Rhianne's father, an elf who has had very little presence in her life up until now. Her father, Lord Caelen, has tried to keep her a secret from the elvish Queen and others, but she has now been discovered. Rhianne has little interest in that side of her life due to the estrangement from her father, so at first, she has little care to get involved with any elvish happenings, even when the queen requests.
Nel is Rhianne's best friend, an incubus, club owner, and trader of secrets. He requests her help in trying to uncover a leak in his club. As someone who prides himself on finding and keeping secrets, a leak threatens his reputation and business, especially when he's in the middle of helping the werewolves through a big change.
In the middle of that, a murder of someone close to the queen occurs. After assurances are put in place, Rhianne agrees to help her find the murderer with the help of her friends of course. So, a halfling, an incubus, an elf lord, a shape changing fae guardian (Toto her longtime companion usually in the form of a dog), a tech mage (her boyfriend Kai), and a forensic pathologist (the mysterious, powerful, and sweets loving Isobel) step through a portal to find a killer.
With two mysteries to solve in two worlds, has she bitten off more than she can chew?
I really enjoyed this book. It's a sweet read with murder mystery appeal. Rhianne is a likable character who can admit her own flaws, but also realize it's up to her to fix things within herself. I do enjoy that we get a bit more of a reveal of all characters in every book, and I wish that we learned a bit more about the elvish kingdom, as we only got a small glimpse into that world. Rhianne admits that she needs to get more details about the people in and circumstances of her life, but it's never the right time. Hopefully we'll get there in the next book! I'll definitely be continuing this series as it comes out! This is the perfect book to curl up with as you sip on a cup of tea.
I received this book as an eARC from the author for an honest review. I'm happy to announce that it's out now and available on Kindle Unlimited.
This time we get to meet Rhianne's father, an elf who has had very little presence in her life up until now. Her father, Lord Caelen, has tried to keep her a secret from the elvish Queen and others, but she has now been discovered. Rhianne has little interest in that side of her life due to the estrangement from her father, so at first, she has little care to get involved with any elvish happenings, even when the queen requests.
Nel is Rhianne's best friend, an incubus, club owner, and trader of secrets. He requests her help in trying to uncover a leak in his club. As someone who prides himself on finding and keeping secrets, a leak threatens his reputation and business, especially when he's in the middle of helping the werewolves through a big change.
In the middle of that, a murder of someone close to the queen occurs. After assurances are put in place, Rhianne agrees to help her find the murderer with the help of her friends of course. So, a halfling, an incubus, an elf lord, a shape changing fae guardian (Toto her longtime companion usually in the form of a dog), a tech mage (her boyfriend Kai), and a forensic pathologist (the mysterious, powerful, and sweets loving Isobel) step through a portal to find a killer.
With two mysteries to solve in two worlds, has she bitten off more than she can chew?
I really enjoyed this book. It's a sweet read with murder mystery appeal. Rhianne is a likable character who can admit her own flaws, but also realize it's up to her to fix things within herself. I do enjoy that we get a bit more of a reveal of all characters in every book, and I wish that we learned a bit more about the elvish kingdom, as we only got a small glimpse into that world. Rhianne admits that she needs to get more details about the people in and circumstances of her life, but it's never the right time. Hopefully we'll get there in the next book! I'll definitely be continuing this series as it comes out! This is the perfect book to curl up with as you sip on a cup of tea.
I received this book as an eARC from the author for an honest review. I'm happy to announce that it's out now and available on Kindle Unlimited.
January 15, 2024
Rating: ★★★½☆ (3.5/5)
'Pack of Lies,' the second installment in P L Matthews' series, stands out as a cozy urban fantasy mystery that can be enjoyed as a standalone novel. The book skillfully intertwines the worlds of the supernatural and the mundane, following the green witch Rhianne Alkenn as she navigates through complex cases involving her friends and a high-stakes political backdrop.
One of the strengths of 'Pack of Lies' is its accessibility to new readers. Matthews ensures that any relevant backstory is seamlessly integrated, allowing those unfamiliar with the first book to dive right in without feeling lost. The narrative moves at a comfortable pace, making it a pleasant and easy read.
However, the novel does encounter a balancing issue with its dual plotlines. With two major plots vying for attention, neither feels fully fleshed out, leaving a desire for more depth and detail in both the narrative and character development. Rhianne's role as a detective is intriguing, and the supporting characters add flavor to the story, but there's a sense that their potential isn't fully explored.
A notable aspect of the book is its subtle use of fantasy elements. While the presence of elves, fairies, and werewolves adds a fantastical touch, these elements often feel secondary to the core mystery plot. The magical powers of the main character are only vaguely mentioned and seldom utilized, which might leave readers yearning for a stronger emphasis on the 'fantasy' in the 'urban fantasy' genre.
The writing in 'Pack of Lies' is generally solid, though there are moments where the narration and dialogue could benefit from more vivid detail. This would enhance the immersion and emotional connection to the characters and their world.
Overall, 'Pack of Lies' is recommended for readers who enjoy a light, cozy read with a sprinkle of fantasy elements. It's a good choice for those who prefer their mysteries with a dash of the supernatural, but don't expect the fantasy aspects to dominate the narrative. The book scores a commendable 3.5 out of 5 stars, offering a blend of intrigue and the everyday in a world where magic lurks just beneath the surface.
'Pack of Lies,' the second installment in P L Matthews' series, stands out as a cozy urban fantasy mystery that can be enjoyed as a standalone novel. The book skillfully intertwines the worlds of the supernatural and the mundane, following the green witch Rhianne Alkenn as she navigates through complex cases involving her friends and a high-stakes political backdrop.
One of the strengths of 'Pack of Lies' is its accessibility to new readers. Matthews ensures that any relevant backstory is seamlessly integrated, allowing those unfamiliar with the first book to dive right in without feeling lost. The narrative moves at a comfortable pace, making it a pleasant and easy read.
However, the novel does encounter a balancing issue with its dual plotlines. With two major plots vying for attention, neither feels fully fleshed out, leaving a desire for more depth and detail in both the narrative and character development. Rhianne's role as a detective is intriguing, and the supporting characters add flavor to the story, but there's a sense that their potential isn't fully explored.
A notable aspect of the book is its subtle use of fantasy elements. While the presence of elves, fairies, and werewolves adds a fantastical touch, these elements often feel secondary to the core mystery plot. The magical powers of the main character are only vaguely mentioned and seldom utilized, which might leave readers yearning for a stronger emphasis on the 'fantasy' in the 'urban fantasy' genre.
The writing in 'Pack of Lies' is generally solid, though there are moments where the narration and dialogue could benefit from more vivid detail. This would enhance the immersion and emotional connection to the characters and their world.
Overall, 'Pack of Lies' is recommended for readers who enjoy a light, cozy read with a sprinkle of fantasy elements. It's a good choice for those who prefer their mysteries with a dash of the supernatural, but don't expect the fantasy aspects to dominate the narrative. The book scores a commendable 3.5 out of 5 stars, offering a blend of intrigue and the everyday in a world where magic lurks just beneath the surface.
July 20, 2025
light mystery
In A Pack of Lies, A Green Witch, the second instalment in P.L. Matthews’ Mystery series, we rejoin Rhianne and her gang, Nel, Kai and Toto, as they unravel new magical puzzles. While the world remains as enchanting as ever, this book left me feeling somewhat ho-hum.
The story is split between two main plotlines. One follows a leak from Nel’s club—someone is spilling secrets to the werewolves. But the mystery itself feels oddly basic. Honestly, a few strategically placed old-timey cameras could’ve solved it in no time. It stretched belief a little that Nel needed outside help at all.
The second plot involves a sudden pivot from “we’re not dealing with elves” to helping the Queen of the elves solve a murder. Again, the case wraps up quickly with a few well-placed questions. The scientific details about the cause of death were interesting and added a bit of substance, but the overall investigation felt a little too easily resolved.
Hints about Rhianne’s background—particularly the implication that “princess” may be more than just a nickname—, though not much is developed there. And relationship-wise, things are still static, with no real movement between characters. That lack of emotional progression might be why the story didn’t hit as hard this time.
Overall, A Pack of Lies, A Green Witch was fine. It holds your attention, expands the world a little, and adds some mystery—but it doesn’t deliver major plot or character developments. If you’re following the series, it’s worth reading, but don’t expect any big revelations just yet.
In A Pack of Lies, A Green Witch, the second instalment in P.L. Matthews’ Mystery series, we rejoin Rhianne and her gang, Nel, Kai and Toto, as they unravel new magical puzzles. While the world remains as enchanting as ever, this book left me feeling somewhat ho-hum.
The story is split between two main plotlines. One follows a leak from Nel’s club—someone is spilling secrets to the werewolves. But the mystery itself feels oddly basic. Honestly, a few strategically placed old-timey cameras could’ve solved it in no time. It stretched belief a little that Nel needed outside help at all.
The second plot involves a sudden pivot from “we’re not dealing with elves” to helping the Queen of the elves solve a murder. Again, the case wraps up quickly with a few well-placed questions. The scientific details about the cause of death were interesting and added a bit of substance, but the overall investigation felt a little too easily resolved.
Hints about Rhianne’s background—particularly the implication that “princess” may be more than just a nickname—, though not much is developed there. And relationship-wise, things are still static, with no real movement between characters. That lack of emotional progression might be why the story didn’t hit as hard this time.
Overall, A Pack of Lies, A Green Witch was fine. It holds your attention, expands the world a little, and adds some mystery—but it doesn’t deliver major plot or character developments. If you’re following the series, it’s worth reading, but don’t expect any big revelations just yet.
December 8, 2025
This one leans more 3.5 but rounding up for overall smoothness of plot and my personal opinions about the writing style - I like it. There are 2 separate mysteries which are twinned together in the main characters duties but not related in any way. I do feel having two very involved mysteries meant neither was focused on well and both were easily solved. There was quite a bit of detail and investigation prior to the "solutions" but they seemed very high level and not quite as focused as might have been expected. As far as character development went, there is not much change between any of the secondary characters and Rhianne. There is however growth in the relationship between Rhianne and her father since one of the investigations occurs in the Elf kingdom. Also when in the kingdom Kai exhibits a different magical ability that needs to be looked at further. One thing that hit the "too good to be true" button is Rhianne's pretty sudden ability to perfectly solve these mysteries. It just didn't hit right and seemed a little forced. Otherwise, I enjoyed this and do plan to continue with the series.
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February 2, 2025Good
Book two picks up where the hook at the end of book one leaves off, and thrusts Rhienne into two new mysteries.
First there’s Nel’s potential leak that he’s tasked Rhienne and Kai with uncovering, all whilst in the midst of an important werewolf succession event.
Then there is the murder of an elf who was important to Toto, and the Elf Queen has asked Rhienne to figure out who is responsible.
This is a fast paced mystery, with a slight hint of magic, set in an alternate magical Sydney. The characters are interesting, the world fascinating, and the ongoing family drama serves as the background plot for the series.
There’s a hint of romance for Rhienne and Kai (they’re moving slow), and a wealth of secrets hinted at, but not yet revealed to either us or Rhienne.
It’s an enjoyable series, and I’m looking forward to seeing some of the secrets revealed in future books.
An entertaining paranormal mystery series for fans of fae and mysteries.
Book two picks up where the hook at the end of book one leaves off, and thrusts Rhienne into two new mysteries.
First there’s Nel’s potential leak that he’s tasked Rhienne and Kai with uncovering, all whilst in the midst of an important werewolf succession event.
Then there is the murder of an elf who was important to Toto, and the Elf Queen has asked Rhienne to figure out who is responsible.
This is a fast paced mystery, with a slight hint of magic, set in an alternate magical Sydney. The characters are interesting, the world fascinating, and the ongoing family drama serves as the background plot for the series.
There’s a hint of romance for Rhienne and Kai (they’re moving slow), and a wealth of secrets hinted at, but not yet revealed to either us or Rhienne.
It’s an enjoyable series, and I’m looking forward to seeing some of the secrets revealed in future books.
An entertaining paranormal mystery series for fans of fae and mysteries.
March 4, 2025
Okay, picked this book up as soon as I'd finished reading Poisoned Leaves. After discovering that this was an Aussie setting, and having loved what I'd read so far, I was all in on continuing on. Loved the characters, the mystery of Rhianne's mixed heritage and growing powers is a thread that I think will run through all of the books. Her growing relationship with Kai is fun, as well as her gargoyle employees and their goal of avoiding any parental interference with their love lives is a hoot as they stumble upon potential mates. The addition to the mix of Rhianne's elf father, and being drawn into his world was interesting. I particularly liked the Queen's Shadow and Rhianne's ability to thwart him.
Love this series, and am considering picking it up in paperback (as I'm still peeved at Amazon for pulling such a dick move with purchased Kindle content) at some point. Two books down, three to go...
4.5 stars
Love this series, and am considering picking it up in paperback (as I'm still peeved at Amazon for pulling such a dick move with purchased Kindle content) at some point. Two books down, three to go...
4.5 stars
July 17, 2024
Rhainne is getting pretty good at solving mysteries.
She had 2 assignments in this book. One in Australia and one in the elven realm. I felt that she gets way too much help from her friends and that she could have done it without so much of their assistance. Granted, I like the guys, but I would have liked to have seen her do more of it on her own. I know she can, she just seems to allow her dad or Nel or Toto to step in. Kai didn’t step in as much, which is cool, but he just seems too perfect. I haven’t found a character flaw in him yet—a bit suspicious. I’m excited to start on the next one.
She had 2 assignments in this book. One in Australia and one in the elven realm. I felt that she gets way too much help from her friends and that she could have done it without so much of their assistance. Granted, I like the guys, but I would have liked to have seen her do more of it on her own. I know she can, she just seems to allow her dad or Nel or Toto to step in. Kai didn’t step in as much, which is cool, but he just seems too perfect. I haven’t found a character flaw in him yet—a bit suspicious. I’m excited to start on the next one.
January 19, 2025
this book did not disappoint. I grew up on Scooby Doo and playing Clue and a group reveals sings to my heart. 😁
this book offers a mystery, but also another mystery within it. Which does a great job of deflecting the reader from the first mystery and its solution. Mystery number one is full of action. And mystery number two is full of intrigue. A fun read all around. We get to know more about the main characters in this book. And enough clues are hinted at to make us keep wanting to know more in the next book.
this book offers a mystery, but also another mystery within it. Which does a great job of deflecting the reader from the first mystery and its solution. Mystery number one is full of action. And mystery number two is full of intrigue. A fun read all around. We get to know more about the main characters in this book. And enough clues are hinted at to make us keep wanting to know more in the next book.
July 6, 2024
A nice change of pace to have two separate mysteries alternating through one book. I especially enjoyed several side characters, the fairy court, and peeks of Australian culture. So far, these books rely more on the intrigue of the mysteries than personal drama - there is personal conflict but it’s low key.
I must take exception to a hip supernatural nightclub playing TWO Joe Cocker songs in one night.
I must take exception to a hip supernatural nightclub playing TWO Joe Cocker songs in one night.
July 24, 2024
Tjis was unexpected.... usually a second book is just blah but no way this one!!! This is a take me on and lets get going move...............yeah!!!!!!!!!!!!!! An invite /not exactly really but Rhianne is up to the challenge, and it is some challenge! We have the werewolves convention which looks put it get out of hand then the summons to the elven court which is a whole nother ball of wax....................
January 11, 2025
Like her first book, Poisoned Leaves, this story is full of adventure. Like Perry, Mason, Rhianne always comes through. She’s a natural at reading people and figuring out the circumstances behind a crime . And in this story wolves duel it out through games to see who will be the next leader and the elf Queen’s friend is murdered. The protagonist is called upon to solve not only the murder, but who is helping a wolf win. I recommend all of PL Matthew’s books for a fun read.
June 8, 2025
Wolves
Funny last book ended on a cliff hanger with her dad showing up right after the case (a little confused by that this book started three months later) but this book ends with her mother showing up.
Is the queen good or bad? I'm thinking bad because everyone is hiding from her toto and her father wants to keep her hidden.I
A interesting storyline with the wolves, plus a trip into fairy to solve a crime
Funny last book ended on a cliff hanger with her dad showing up right after the case (a little confused by that this book started three months later) but this book ends with her mother showing up.
Is the queen good or bad? I'm thinking bad because everyone is hiding from her toto and her father wants to keep her hidden.I
A interesting storyline with the wolves, plus a trip into fairy to solve a crime
November 25, 2024
Another great book!
Enjoyable reading and a possible romance in the works for Nel! I’m happy Rhi and her dad are connecting too!
Hopefully the gargoyle siblings will find love too!
My only complaint is that the murderer was a female in this book, same as the first book. Although to be fair she was a terrible person and her motives were believable.
Enjoyable reading and a possible romance in the works for Nel! I’m happy Rhi and her dad are connecting too!
Hopefully the gargoyle siblings will find love too!
My only complaint is that the murderer was a female in this book, same as the first book. Although to be fair she was a terrible person and her motives were believable.
January 8, 2024
I loved this book. I love how she to fantasy and added murder mystery and a mystery. Rihanna is on the case to solve two mystery. While trying to protect the ones she cares about and also learning more about herself. Join her on her journey of self discovery.
April 5, 2025
Another masterpiece by one of my favorite authors! I’m enjoying this new series and cannot wait to see what comes next for Rhianne and the gang. Please go buy and read, you will not be disappointed. I love the character development and the story itself is so well written.
August 22, 2025
Just as good as book one.
Love how the author includes several supernatural beings in her books.
The storyline is great, love the characters.
And love the fact that the series is set in Australia (I'm an Aussie).
This series is so worth reading, onto book three.
Love how the author includes several supernatural beings in her books.
The storyline is great, love the characters.
And love the fact that the series is set in Australia (I'm an Aussie).
This series is so worth reading, onto book three.
October 1, 2024
As good as the first
It’s nice to see urban fantasy set outside the United States, and this series, set in Australia, neatly fits the bill.
It’s nice to see urban fantasy set outside the United States, and this series, set in Australia, neatly fits the bill.
June 22, 2025
an easy and multiple twist
August 19, 2025
3.75*
I enjoyed this more than the first one. Probably because I’ve settled into the characters and writing style. So it’s straight onto the next one for me now.
I enjoyed this more than the first one. Probably because I’ve settled into the characters and writing style. So it’s straight onto the next one for me now.
November 5, 2024
Enquêtes aux pays des elfes et des loups-garous. J’ai aimé le voyage chez les elfes : raffinement et subtilité.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews