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Bewitched by Chocolate #8
A Witch Worth Praline For
Caitlyn Le Fey is savouring autumn delights like hot spiced cider and gooey toffee apples as she helps with preparations for the upcoming Samhain Festival. She’s also looking forward to sweetening her budding romance with the dashing Lord James Fitzroy and meeting his family at last. But the cosy atmosphere is shattered when a guest at Huntingdon Manor is found dead, murdered for an ancient grimoire that once belonged to the Widow Mags.
Determined to find answers and retrieve the stolen “book of spells”, Caitlyn sets out to do some witchy sleuthing, and she soon uncovers a bittersweet assortment of from James's sister's glamorous friends to a mysterious retired academic—who might just be Caitlyn's long-lost mother in disguise!
Meanwhile, trouble is brewing in the village as superstitions simmer and hostility bubbles over towards the Widow Mags's chocolate shop. Caitlyn soon finds herself smothered by conflicting loyalties and hidden agendas—and just when she thinks things can't get worse, clues start pointing to James’s sister as the killer...
With the help of her toothless vampire uncle and her mischievous kitten, can Caitlyn solve the mystery, find the missing grimoire, and finally uncover the truth about her mother?
Dive into a bewitching mystery filled with quirky humour, delectable treats, and a dash of chocolate magic—it's a cozy concoction that'll leave you spellbound!!
This book follows British English spelling and usage.
Clean no graphic violence, sex, or strong language.
contemporary fantasy, paranormal fantasy, paranormal cozy mysteries, witch cozy mystery, culinary cozy mysteries, cat cozy mystery series, British mystery
BEWITCHED BY CHOCOLATE Mysteries :Dark, Witch & Creamy (Book 1)Witch, Chocolate Fudge (Book 2)Witch Summer Night's Cream (Book 3)Blood, Sweets and Tears (Book 4)Bonbons and Broomsticks (Book 5)Double, Double, Toil and Truffle (Book 6)Salted Caramel Sorcery (Book 7)A Witch Worth Praline For (Book 8)A Fondant Enchantments & Endings (Book 9)
Determined to find answers and retrieve the stolen “book of spells”, Caitlyn sets out to do some witchy sleuthing, and she soon uncovers a bittersweet assortment of from James's sister's glamorous friends to a mysterious retired academic—who might just be Caitlyn's long-lost mother in disguise!
Meanwhile, trouble is brewing in the village as superstitions simmer and hostility bubbles over towards the Widow Mags's chocolate shop. Caitlyn soon finds herself smothered by conflicting loyalties and hidden agendas—and just when she thinks things can't get worse, clues start pointing to James’s sister as the killer...
With the help of her toothless vampire uncle and her mischievous kitten, can Caitlyn solve the mystery, find the missing grimoire, and finally uncover the truth about her mother?
Dive into a bewitching mystery filled with quirky humour, delectable treats, and a dash of chocolate magic—it's a cozy concoction that'll leave you spellbound!!
This book follows British English spelling and usage.
Clean no graphic violence, sex, or strong language.
contemporary fantasy, paranormal fantasy, paranormal cozy mysteries, witch cozy mystery, culinary cozy mysteries, cat cozy mystery series, British mystery
BEWITCHED BY CHOCOLATE Mysteries :Dark, Witch & Creamy (Book 1)Witch, Chocolate Fudge (Book 2)Witch Summer Night's Cream (Book 3)Blood, Sweets and Tears (Book 4)Bonbons and Broomsticks (Book 5)Double, Double, Toil and Truffle (Book 6)Salted Caramel Sorcery (Book 7)A Witch Worth Praline For (Book 8)A Fondant Enchantments & Endings (Book 9)
353 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 19, 2024
192 people are currently reading
72 people want to read
About the author
H.Y. Hanna
66 books1,090 followersUSA Today bestselling author H.Y. Hanna has written over 30 mystery novels, many of which have been translated into several languages. Her mysteries blend humour and clever plotting with vivid settings, featuring quirky characters - and cats with big personalities! After spending years trying to fit in and do a “real” job, Hsin-Yi finally returned to her first love: writing.
Throughout her life, she has called many places home—from Taiwan to Oxford, Dubai to New Zealand. She’s finally unpacked for good in Perth, Western Australia, where she spends most days fighting with her rescue cat Muesli for the use of her office chair.
You can learn more about her and her books at: www.hyhanna.com
And don’t forget to join her newsletter to get updates on new releases, exclusive giveaways and other book news—as well as a free novella and short story! Go to: www.hyhanna.com/newsletter
Throughout her life, she has called many places home—from Taiwan to Oxford, Dubai to New Zealand. She’s finally unpacked for good in Perth, Western Australia, where she spends most days fighting with her rescue cat Muesli for the use of her office chair.
You can learn more about her and her books at: www.hyhanna.com
And don’t forget to join her newsletter to get updates on new releases, exclusive giveaways and other book news—as well as a free novella and short story! Go to: www.hyhanna.com/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
May 28, 2025
A Samhain festival is planned to take place at the Manor and Caitlyn goes to meet James' sister and her friends. Sadly one of said friends is found murdered in the library and Caitlyn begins an investigation. At the same time it appears that Caitlyn's long lost mother is around, maybe using her talent for glamour spells to hide as someone else. Who could it be and what is she up to?
This is a really fun read with plenty of action. All the main characters are busy being themselves and getting into trouble. Caitlyn and James get closer but then have a major falling out. Will this pair ever get it together! And where is Nibs?
There is one book in the series left to read and I am sure everything will be sorted out. I am looking forward to reading A Fondant Farewell.
This is a really fun read with plenty of action. All the main characters are busy being themselves and getting into trouble. Caitlyn and James get closer but then have a major falling out. Will this pair ever get it together! And where is Nibs?
There is one book in the series left to read and I am sure everything will be sorted out. I am looking forward to reading A Fondant Farewell.
August 18, 2024
Bewitched by Chocolate #8
I kept on reading because I want to know how it all plays out. This book is the first half of the series finale and does end on a cliffhanger ending (again).
Although I was not too convinced of the paranormal nature of the series I like the fact that the author centers the books around some of the seasonal festivals in the pagan annual cycle.
And it is chocolate magic which makes it hard to resist. And cute animals. And funny elderly people.
I kept on reading because I want to know how it all plays out. This book is the first half of the series finale and does end on a cliffhanger ending (again).
Although I was not too convinced of the paranormal nature of the series I like the fact that the author centers the books around some of the seasonal festivals in the pagan annual cycle.
And it is chocolate magic which makes it hard to resist. And cute animals. And funny elderly people.
July 20, 2024
I received a free copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
A Witch Worth Praline For is book eight in this paranormal cozy mystery series that follows witch Caitlyn. I have enjoyed this series so far and was excited to see how the author would wrap up this series when I heard books 8 and 9 would be last books in this series. And I really enjoyed reading this book. It's an engaging read and it kept me reading, eager to see how everything would play out. This book reads like half of the last book, it also ends on a cliffhanger ending which makes me eager for book 9.
Caitlyn has another mystery to solve in this one and there are some interesting suspects. She also thinks her mother is hiding somewhere in town disguised as another person. There are people who lied about their alibi and suspicious behaviors, as well as a mysterious hidden grimoire that the murder victim found shortly before his dead which disappears afterwards. And the town is preparing for Samhain festival and there is some unrest and fear about witches and magic. So there is a lot going on and it made for an engaging read. The mystery isn't solved yet as book 9 will continue the plot, but there have been some interesting twists and reveals already.
I like reading about Caitlyn and her dedicating to figuring out who killed the victim. There are some parts that don't always work for me like how she can sometimes jump to conclusions, but this often does serve to move the plot along. Same goes for some of the side characters, they can be quick to jump to conclusions or act in a way that moves the plot along. I thought it was well done how some of Caitlin's stubbornness gets addressed by side characters toward the end and how she changes her behavior in a situation after that. I liked seeing that.
The focus on the occult, magic and witches is even stronger in this book with the mystery involving a grimoire as well as a magic stone used to locate objects. Then there are the preparations for the Samhain festival and several side characters with an interest in the subject of magic. It really added to the witchy magical vibe in this book and I thought that worked well here.
To summarize: I had a great time reading this book. It's an engaging read and I wanted to keep reading and see how it all plays out. This book is the first half of the series finale and does end on a cliffhanger ending, which makes me look forward to book 9 and the conclusion. The mystery is an interesting one with plenty of suspects, there are some twists and turns already, but the murderer isn't revealed yet as that will happen in the next book. I liked following Caitlyn along as the tries to solve the mystery. The witchy atmosphere of this book was well done and the magical vibe and focus felt even stronger in this book. I look forward to the last and final book in the series!
A Witch Worth Praline For is book eight in this paranormal cozy mystery series that follows witch Caitlyn. I have enjoyed this series so far and was excited to see how the author would wrap up this series when I heard books 8 and 9 would be last books in this series. And I really enjoyed reading this book. It's an engaging read and it kept me reading, eager to see how everything would play out. This book reads like half of the last book, it also ends on a cliffhanger ending which makes me eager for book 9.
Caitlyn has another mystery to solve in this one and there are some interesting suspects. She also thinks her mother is hiding somewhere in town disguised as another person. There are people who lied about their alibi and suspicious behaviors, as well as a mysterious hidden grimoire that the murder victim found shortly before his dead which disappears afterwards. And the town is preparing for Samhain festival and there is some unrest and fear about witches and magic. So there is a lot going on and it made for an engaging read. The mystery isn't solved yet as book 9 will continue the plot, but there have been some interesting twists and reveals already.
I like reading about Caitlyn and her dedicating to figuring out who killed the victim. There are some parts that don't always work for me like how she can sometimes jump to conclusions, but this often does serve to move the plot along. Same goes for some of the side characters, they can be quick to jump to conclusions or act in a way that moves the plot along. I thought it was well done how some of Caitlin's stubbornness gets addressed by side characters toward the end and how she changes her behavior in a situation after that. I liked seeing that.
The focus on the occult, magic and witches is even stronger in this book with the mystery involving a grimoire as well as a magic stone used to locate objects. Then there are the preparations for the Samhain festival and several side characters with an interest in the subject of magic. It really added to the witchy magical vibe in this book and I thought that worked well here.
To summarize: I had a great time reading this book. It's an engaging read and I wanted to keep reading and see how it all plays out. This book is the first half of the series finale and does end on a cliffhanger ending, which makes me look forward to book 9 and the conclusion. The mystery is an interesting one with plenty of suspects, there are some twists and turns already, but the murderer isn't revealed yet as that will happen in the next book. I liked following Caitlyn along as the tries to solve the mystery. The witchy atmosphere of this book was well done and the magical vibe and focus felt even stronger in this book. I look forward to the last and final book in the series!
December 23, 2024
This was originally supposed to be the last book in the series, but the author (according to her newsletter) had so many ideas and it kept getting longer. So, she split it into a two-part finale. This is the first of the two parts, and as such, it ends on a cliffhanger. For the most part I enjoyed the book, but suspected the big "shocking" event on which this book ends.
September 23, 2024
5 Stars:)
July 5, 2024
This book is the first in a two-part finale.
It’s been some time since we were last in Tiilyhenge. In many ways, it felt like a return to people once familiar.
Most of this book takes place at Huntingdon Manor, the ancestral home of Lord James Fitz Roy. We learn early on the Widow Mags has been missing her Grimoire, her unique witchy journal, for twenty-two years. While the Widow Mags refuses to discuss the particulars of its absence, Caitlyn concludes early on, her biological mother, Tara, stole it from her own mother. This is a no-no in the witching world. Another’s grimoire is off-limits unless permission is given.
Like most of the books in this series, there is the usual cast of characters-Caitlyn, the Widow Mags, James, Pomona, Uncle Viktor, Aunt Bertha, Evie, and Nibs; there is also a new set-Leandra Lockwood, Vanessa Fitzroy (Ness), Percy Wynn, Victoria Fanshaw-Drury (Tori), Katya Novik, and Benedict Danby. To Caitlyn, they all appear a suspicious lot.
Caitlyn discovers Percy in the Manor library dowsing for a book. One is found in the hollowed-out recesses of another book. Caitlyn suspects it’s her grandmother’s stolen grimoire. Percy returns it to its shelf, but it is clear, both he and Caitlyn fully intend to return for a look. The time for this, apparently, is after dinner. When Pomona and Caitlyn return, in the quiet of the evening, they find Percy dead, contorted strangely on the floor, with a scrap of this book held tightly in his hand. Immediately, Caitlyn begins to suspect foul play.
While all of this is going on, Caitlyn continues to look for an enchanted garden hose, Nibs, and her mother. She learns her mother is adept with glamour magic. She could be anyone there.
She discovers a photograph of someone who could be her father.
The Manor is planning a Samhain festival which inflames the locals’ superstitions. There is some reason to be wary of the occult, no one has taken the time to explain it to them, but the focus should be on those using Dark Magic. The Widow Mags is not one of those who is.
Will the festival be allowed to take place?
Will Caitlyn find Nibs and the garden hose?
The mother who inadvertently reveals itself: is she involved? Did she murder Percy? Why is she there now? Will she give Caitlyn the satisfaction of answering her questions?
Will the Widow Mags get her Grimoire returned to her?
Is the ever-lurking Thane Blackmore involved? If so, in what ways?
This book ends on a cliff-hanger. James and Caitlyn go to the hospital in support of one person only to find it someone else altogether. Can you guess who this person is…..
I have received an early copy of this book. Please note, my thoughts are my own. I have reviewed this as honestly as I could.
It’s been some time since we were last in Tiilyhenge. In many ways, it felt like a return to people once familiar.
Most of this book takes place at Huntingdon Manor, the ancestral home of Lord James Fitz Roy. We learn early on the Widow Mags has been missing her Grimoire, her unique witchy journal, for twenty-two years. While the Widow Mags refuses to discuss the particulars of its absence, Caitlyn concludes early on, her biological mother, Tara, stole it from her own mother. This is a no-no in the witching world. Another’s grimoire is off-limits unless permission is given.
Like most of the books in this series, there is the usual cast of characters-Caitlyn, the Widow Mags, James, Pomona, Uncle Viktor, Aunt Bertha, Evie, and Nibs; there is also a new set-Leandra Lockwood, Vanessa Fitzroy (Ness), Percy Wynn, Victoria Fanshaw-Drury (Tori), Katya Novik, and Benedict Danby. To Caitlyn, they all appear a suspicious lot.
Caitlyn discovers Percy in the Manor library dowsing for a book. One is found in the hollowed-out recesses of another book. Caitlyn suspects it’s her grandmother’s stolen grimoire. Percy returns it to its shelf, but it is clear, both he and Caitlyn fully intend to return for a look. The time for this, apparently, is after dinner. When Pomona and Caitlyn return, in the quiet of the evening, they find Percy dead, contorted strangely on the floor, with a scrap of this book held tightly in his hand. Immediately, Caitlyn begins to suspect foul play.
While all of this is going on, Caitlyn continues to look for an enchanted garden hose, Nibs, and her mother. She learns her mother is adept with glamour magic. She could be anyone there.
She discovers a photograph of someone who could be her father.
The Manor is planning a Samhain festival which inflames the locals’ superstitions. There is some reason to be wary of the occult, no one has taken the time to explain it to them, but the focus should be on those using Dark Magic. The Widow Mags is not one of those who is.
Will the festival be allowed to take place?
Will Caitlyn find Nibs and the garden hose?
The mother who inadvertently reveals itself: is she involved? Did she murder Percy? Why is she there now? Will she give Caitlyn the satisfaction of answering her questions?
Will the Widow Mags get her Grimoire returned to her?
Is the ever-lurking Thane Blackmore involved? If so, in what ways?
This book ends on a cliff-hanger. James and Caitlyn go to the hospital in support of one person only to find it someone else altogether. Can you guess who this person is…..
I have received an early copy of this book. Please note, my thoughts are my own. I have reviewed this as honestly as I could.
July 22, 2024
Family legacy. Witchery magic. A centuries old vampire. Lots of chocolate and … ugh! dead bodies. What could be better? Nothing! A favorite series is coming to an end (whimper), so I feel compelled to say that it’s the entirety of the series that has made it an exciting journey. Caitlyn LeFey, our young heroine, felt a bit lost growing up, but, after a shocking revelation about her family, she’s off to Tillyhenge, a small village deep in the English countryside. There she’s surprised to find a grandmother, an aunt, a cousin, and a legacy of her witching family. Shh! It’s a “carefully guarded” secret.
Caitlyn begins her apprenticeship with Widow Mags, her curmudgeon grandmother, in the ways of manipulating chocolate they sell in a cute little chocolate shop, but suspicious, antagonistic townspeople, a few magical mistakes, some dead bodies, and an enigmatic stranger have greatly complicated her life. One bright spot is her budding relationship with Lord James Fitzroy whose family has an interesting connection to the occult. But, as Caitlyn’s journey approaches a crescendo, shocking secrets, hidden identities, and true motivations start to be revealed, but not without more dead bodies.
In book eight, Caitlyn is preparing for Samhain (sa-wen), the witch’s new year, with all the fruits and spices of the season wrapped in decadent chocolate, as well as helping with the festival up at the manor which includes a Samhain bonfire. But a new resident, who made a surprising announcement that she’s a witch (a bit of a taboo to proclaim such things), has caught Caitlyn’s attention. However, a murder ensnares Caitlyn in hunt for a special, if not dangerous, grimoire and a killer who might be too close to home. You’ll keep the pages turning!
H.Y. Hanna’s Bewitched by Chocolate series is nearing its dramatic conclusion, and with so much to tie together from the previous seven books, it’s going to take two installments to end of the series. So much to savor, but all is expected to be revealed with karma and happy endings destined to be dealt. Hanna’s writing style always keeps readers engaged with clever interactions, realistic characterizations (even Viktor), entertaining humor, and lots of mischief and mystery. This series is a favorite with a rich, multigenerational cast of magical and non-magical characters set in a Cotswolds community intertwining fascinating folklore and holiday insights. There are best friends, close family, a romantic entanglement, frisky fur buddies, a fruit-loving vampire guardian, and lots of chocolate concoctions to amuse everyone. I love this book and can’t wait for the final one to make the series complete. I admit the books do build on each other, so I highly recommend starting from the beginning for a delicious experience!
Caitlyn begins her apprenticeship with Widow Mags, her curmudgeon grandmother, in the ways of manipulating chocolate they sell in a cute little chocolate shop, but suspicious, antagonistic townspeople, a few magical mistakes, some dead bodies, and an enigmatic stranger have greatly complicated her life. One bright spot is her budding relationship with Lord James Fitzroy whose family has an interesting connection to the occult. But, as Caitlyn’s journey approaches a crescendo, shocking secrets, hidden identities, and true motivations start to be revealed, but not without more dead bodies.
In book eight, Caitlyn is preparing for Samhain (sa-wen), the witch’s new year, with all the fruits and spices of the season wrapped in decadent chocolate, as well as helping with the festival up at the manor which includes a Samhain bonfire. But a new resident, who made a surprising announcement that she’s a witch (a bit of a taboo to proclaim such things), has caught Caitlyn’s attention. However, a murder ensnares Caitlyn in hunt for a special, if not dangerous, grimoire and a killer who might be too close to home. You’ll keep the pages turning!
H.Y. Hanna’s Bewitched by Chocolate series is nearing its dramatic conclusion, and with so much to tie together from the previous seven books, it’s going to take two installments to end of the series. So much to savor, but all is expected to be revealed with karma and happy endings destined to be dealt. Hanna’s writing style always keeps readers engaged with clever interactions, realistic characterizations (even Viktor), entertaining humor, and lots of mischief and mystery. This series is a favorite with a rich, multigenerational cast of magical and non-magical characters set in a Cotswolds community intertwining fascinating folklore and holiday insights. There are best friends, close family, a romantic entanglement, frisky fur buddies, a fruit-loving vampire guardian, and lots of chocolate concoctions to amuse everyone. I love this book and can’t wait for the final one to make the series complete. I admit the books do build on each other, so I highly recommend starting from the beginning for a delicious experience!
July 18, 2024
WOW! Part one in a two part end of a series that will make you want the last part right away. This incredible 9 book series is a must read if you like great characters, mystery and lots of humor. In this 8th book, Lord James Fitzroy is hosting the Samhain festival this year on his estate and his Victoria (Tori) and her London friends are coming. After all, she is Jame's remaining family. So with her more flamboyant American cousin, Pomona they decided to stay at the manor to make things easier. Finding on of Tori's friends, Percy, in the manor library and she was in a spot in the library where he couldn't see her, she watched what he was looking for. He finds a hollowed out book with what looks like her Grandma Mags' missing Grimoire that was stolen many years ago supposedly by Caitlyn's biological mother. Watching Percy put the book back and leave the library, she got back out and told Pomona about what she saw and they made a plan to go back after everyone was asleep to check it out. But, when they went into the library, they find a dead Percy lying on the floor dead with a piece of the book ripped clutched in his hand. When Caitlyn looked at the ripped page, she was shaken, the handwriting looked exactly like the Widow Mags, her grandmother's from her missing grimoire. And so the roller coaster ride begins. Why would anyone want to kill Percy and where is the missing Grimoire? Trying to solve the murder with her cousin, Pomona all the while dealing with an enchanted garden hose with a will of its own, the disobedient kitten, Nibs and her cousin Emma, trying to learn how to control her magic, her Uncle Viktor, Caitlyn's protector who just happens to also be a fruit bat, Caitlyn's has her hands full. Can she do it? Could it be Jame's sister? Will Caitlyn and James survive this ordeal? We are left with a cliff hanger at the shocking ending to this book! Wow! I highly recommend this fantastic, fun series and especially this book and the next one coming. I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
July 8, 2024
I love this series, it is so unusual to have a witch that can manipulate chocolate that I have been a fan from the start. Which is why I am sad to see the series coming to an end. The final story is actually done in two parts, so don't read this book expecting to find the killer or have your questions about Caitlyn family history solved but do prepare to want the next book. I was slightly disappointed and maybe that is why the author is ending the series but the murder at the manor seemed very similar to a previous book in the series. Although the haywire magic was a lot of fun and original. The cast of characters continue to delight and entertaining the reader with there antics and quirks. As I said the murder doesn't get solved but hopefully when the next book comes out it will get wrapped up nicely. I can't wait.When
Caitlyn and the rest of the villages are gearing up to celebrate the Samhain festival. For Caitlyn as a witch it is something to look forward to, all the old traditions and customs re enacted. As a person it's something to worry about, as she is meeting her boyfriend's sister and her friends for the first time. Never having been one of the popular girls she finds it hard to fit in and that's before she finds a dead body in the library and James's sister becomes her top suspect. Could James's sister really have killed one of her friends? Caitlyn hopes not but it's a lot better than thinking the widow Mags did it, when the page clutched in his hand turns out to have been wripped out of her missing grimoire. Can Caitlyn get to the bottom of the death with her relationship in tack?
I was given this free review copy book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Caitlyn and the rest of the villages are gearing up to celebrate the Samhain festival. For Caitlyn as a witch it is something to look forward to, all the old traditions and customs re enacted. As a person it's something to worry about, as she is meeting her boyfriend's sister and her friends for the first time. Never having been one of the popular girls she finds it hard to fit in and that's before she finds a dead body in the library and James's sister becomes her top suspect. Could James's sister really have killed one of her friends? Caitlyn hopes not but it's a lot better than thinking the widow Mags did it, when the page clutched in his hand turns out to have been wripped out of her missing grimoire. Can Caitlyn get to the bottom of the death with her relationship in tack?
I was given this free review copy book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
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July 30, 2024getting tired of the very over-used plot of new witches trying to solve crimes while committing more crimes as they interfere with the investigation.
Amazon synopsis:
Caitlyn Le Fey is savouring autumn delights like hot spiced cider and gooey toffee apples as she helps with preparations for the upcoming Samhain Festival. She’s also looking forward to sweetening her budding romance with the dashing Lord James Fitzroy and meeting his family at last. But the cosy atmosphere is shattered when a guest at Huntingdon Manor is found dead, murdered for an ancient grimoire that once belonged to the Widow Mags.
Determined to find answers and retrieve the stolen “book of spells”, Caitlyn sets out to do some witchy sleuthing, and she soon uncovers a bittersweet assortment of suspects: from James's sister's glamorous friends to a mysterious retired academic—who might just be Caitlyn's long-lost mother in disguise!
Meanwhile, trouble is brewing in the village as superstitions simmer and hostility bubbles over towards the Widow Mags's chocolate shop. Caitlyn soon finds herself grappling with conflicting loyalties and hidden agendas—and just when she thinks things can't get worse, clues start pointing to James’s sister as the killer...
With the help of her toothless vampire uncle and her mischievous kitten, can Caitlyn solve the mystery, find the missing grimoire, and finally uncover the truth about her mother?
Amazon synopsis:
Caitlyn Le Fey is savouring autumn delights like hot spiced cider and gooey toffee apples as she helps with preparations for the upcoming Samhain Festival. She’s also looking forward to sweetening her budding romance with the dashing Lord James Fitzroy and meeting his family at last. But the cosy atmosphere is shattered when a guest at Huntingdon Manor is found dead, murdered for an ancient grimoire that once belonged to the Widow Mags.
Determined to find answers and retrieve the stolen “book of spells”, Caitlyn sets out to do some witchy sleuthing, and she soon uncovers a bittersweet assortment of suspects: from James's sister's glamorous friends to a mysterious retired academic—who might just be Caitlyn's long-lost mother in disguise!
Meanwhile, trouble is brewing in the village as superstitions simmer and hostility bubbles over towards the Widow Mags's chocolate shop. Caitlyn soon finds herself grappling with conflicting loyalties and hidden agendas—and just when she thinks things can't get worse, clues start pointing to James’s sister as the killer...
With the help of her toothless vampire uncle and her mischievous kitten, can Caitlyn solve the mystery, find the missing grimoire, and finally uncover the truth about her mother?
July 10, 2024
This book is the first in a two part finale to the series. I recommend reading the previous books in the series to familiarize yourself with the setting and characters. The recurrent theme is the tension between those who are familiar and comfortable with pagan traditions and those who fear and distrust. These traditions are part of the village Tillyhenge history and a continuing source of both entertainment and celebration for some, and a source of suspicion and intolerance for others.
As we've come to expect in this series, there is humor and mystery at the heart of the story. I really enjoy the idea of chocolate magic, and Caitlyn and her family provide chocolate temptation and some slapstick when magic collides with everyday life.
The central mystery involves the suspected return of Caitlyn's long disappeared mother, who is a gifted witch who is both suspect and figure of longing and curiosity for Caitlyn. She stole a precious grimoire from the Widow Mags when she disappeared. The search for the grimoire and Caitlyn's mother quickly results in a death and more questions, which wind up in a shocking cliffhanger to be resolved in part two. I look forward to the answers and a last romp in the conclusion to this charming series (pardon the pun).
Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
As we've come to expect in this series, there is humor and mystery at the heart of the story. I really enjoy the idea of chocolate magic, and Caitlyn and her family provide chocolate temptation and some slapstick when magic collides with everyday life.
The central mystery involves the suspected return of Caitlyn's long disappeared mother, who is a gifted witch who is both suspect and figure of longing and curiosity for Caitlyn. She stole a precious grimoire from the Widow Mags when she disappeared. The search for the grimoire and Caitlyn's mother quickly results in a death and more questions, which wind up in a shocking cliffhanger to be resolved in part two. I look forward to the answers and a last romp in the conclusion to this charming series (pardon the pun).
Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2024
This isn’t the kind of book that I would normally pick up and read but I do love the author’s other series, so I thought I would give it a try, and I am so glad I did. Caitlyn came to Tillyhenge six months ago looking for her birth mother. A total skeptic about witches and magic, she found that her mother was a witch, and she found her grandmother, an aunt and cousin, both witches also. The town is about to celebrate the holiday of Samhain, the witches new year, which coincides with Halloween and Caitlyn is also looking forward to meeting her boyfriend’s sister and her friends, who are coming to town for the celebration. When a party guest is found dead with a page from a witch’s grimoire (spell book) in his hand, everyone is saying witchcraft killed him! Caitlyn needs to prove that it wasn’t witchcraft or she and her family will be driven out of town. A lot of suspects, a lot of twists and turns to find the murderer and a lot of fun! This book had me hooked from the first page, and although it is a series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone. And, like me, you may even decide that you like it so much you want to read all of the books in the series. I highly recommend this book and this series.
I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
July 14, 2024
I was so excited to finally get to revisit Tillyhenge after a bit of a gap between the previous book and this one. It was absolutely worth the wait!
Caitlyn once again finds herself at Huntingdon Manor, this time in preparation for the Samhain festival James and his PR team have decided to put on to boost tourism and help promote other businesses in the village. James also hopes it may further help to soothe Tillyhenge's more superstitious residents and show them the Widow Mags is not someone to be looked upon with scorn, but an accomplished chocolatier they've no reason to fear. As one might expect, people's minds and fears can be difficult to soothe. Toss a death into the mix and rumors and accusations start to fly.
Most of the novel takes place in Huntingdon Manor and surrounds Caitlyn, Pomona, and of course a bit of magical mayhem compliments of Evie. I can't really give a detailed summary, as I don't want to spoil it for anyone, but if you adore the shenanigans Bran, Nibs, and Uncle Viktor add to the equation, you're in for a treat!
Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
Caitlyn once again finds herself at Huntingdon Manor, this time in preparation for the Samhain festival James and his PR team have decided to put on to boost tourism and help promote other businesses in the village. James also hopes it may further help to soothe Tillyhenge's more superstitious residents and show them the Widow Mags is not someone to be looked upon with scorn, but an accomplished chocolatier they've no reason to fear. As one might expect, people's minds and fears can be difficult to soothe. Toss a death into the mix and rumors and accusations start to fly.
Most of the novel takes place in Huntingdon Manor and surrounds Caitlyn, Pomona, and of course a bit of magical mayhem compliments of Evie. I can't really give a detailed summary, as I don't want to spoil it for anyone, but if you adore the shenanigans Bran, Nibs, and Uncle Viktor add to the equation, you're in for a treat!
Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
July 19, 2024
When Percy, a village bookstore owner, is found dead in Library at Huntingdon Manor, Caitlyn is convinced that he was murdered for her grandmother’s grimoire, which had been stolen more than 22 years earlier by Caitlyn’s mother. But why had the book, once again missing, been in the Manor’s Library? Is Tara, Caitlyn’s mother and superior witch, at the Manor? Is Caitlyn in for spell of toil and trouble?
Bewitched by Chocolate series is, of course, a series which features magical elements. But the magic isn’t just in the plot. There is magic in the way that simply opening the latest book in the series is like reconnecting with a friend you haven’t seen or talked to for away—you are instantly into the story.
There is magic in the way that H.Y. Hanna can connect a new reader to the series without boring those are returning readers with past events.
There is magic in the creation of believable, liable characters that are not copy-and-paste versions of characters in the Oxford Tearoom mysteries and the English Cottage Garden mysteries.
Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
Bewitched by Chocolate series is, of course, a series which features magical elements. But the magic isn’t just in the plot. There is magic in the way that simply opening the latest book in the series is like reconnecting with a friend you haven’t seen or talked to for away—you are instantly into the story.
There is magic in the way that H.Y. Hanna can connect a new reader to the series without boring those are returning readers with past events.
There is magic in the creation of believable, liable characters that are not copy-and-paste versions of characters in the Oxford Tearoom mysteries and the English Cottage Garden mysteries.
Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
July 27, 2024
Boy, oh boy, don‘t I love books that end on a cliffhanger 😉🤪 and a series finale, none the less!
In the 9th installment of the series, all the major plots that have been important since book one (like „who is Caitlyn’s mum?“ „why is the Widow Mags not talking about her missing/estranged daughter?“) are evolving towards the final „bang“ (seriously, I can‘t WAIT for some of the answers this series is owing us readers) - and, considering we had to be patient much longer than usual to read this next book, it was sooo nice and comforting to spend some time with our favorite Tillyhengians again. If only there were more books than one in the pipeline…sometimes, you really need something whimsical, mysterious and light-hearted to spirit you away from the everyday life, and this series has always done the trick for me!
If you‘re looking for a cozy, light summer read that whisks you away to the gorgeous English countryside, and you love anything witchy - give this book, nah, the whole series a try! You won‘t regret it, I promise!
Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
In the 9th installment of the series, all the major plots that have been important since book one (like „who is Caitlyn’s mum?“ „why is the Widow Mags not talking about her missing/estranged daughter?“) are evolving towards the final „bang“ (seriously, I can‘t WAIT for some of the answers this series is owing us readers) - and, considering we had to be patient much longer than usual to read this next book, it was sooo nice and comforting to spend some time with our favorite Tillyhengians again. If only there were more books than one in the pipeline…sometimes, you really need something whimsical, mysterious and light-hearted to spirit you away from the everyday life, and this series has always done the trick for me!
If you‘re looking for a cozy, light summer read that whisks you away to the gorgeous English countryside, and you love anything witchy - give this book, nah, the whole series a try! You won‘t regret it, I promise!
Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
July 31, 2024
After a three year gap, this series finally continued. Apparently this is the next to last book in the series. Fortunately, since this one ended on a major cliff hanger, we will only have to wait a few months to find out what happens next. Though I hate to see the series coming to an end, I'm getting really tired of the superstitious, mob mentality that pervades this book. I thought the villagers were finally starting to accept that she is not a danger and that her chocolate shop was starting to thrive. I didn't like it that the villagers once again turning into an angry hate mob with the Widow Mags as the target of their rage. In fact, this book seemed to be fueled by hate and rage and fear and superstition. It's obvious there is some outside influence affecting everybody. I'm really upset that Caitlyn has not put more effort into finding Nibs. I'm sorry, but if that had been my kitten who wandered into a barn inhabited by somebody I didn't know and trust, I would have gone in after him no matter what the consequences. But that's just me. I can tolerate people in danger. I can't tolerate when a cat or dog is in danger. Forget the grimoire—save the cat!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2024
The author has three ongoing cozy mystery series that take place in and around the Oxford area, but for me, personally, this Bewitched by Chocolate series is absolutely the best. I have been waiting close to a year for this book, especially for the shenanigans of two of my favorite characters: Nibs (the little kitten who doesn't grow) and Caitlyn's Uncle Victor, the fruit bat/vampire shifter who is so old, he has to wear false fangs (his innocent antics are hilarious). This book is part I of the two-part finale. I'm glad she wrote it in two parts because now I have one more book to look forward to before the series ends.
Although this is a continuing story as to Caitlyn and her small group of family, friends, etc., there is nevertheless a new murder that is committed in every book, which always involves Caitlyn somehow. Each murder is solved and neatly wrapped up at the end of each book, but there is always a cliffhanger as to Caitlyn's personal background story, which is coming to an end. Those few loose threads should be resolved in the final book. Can't wait!
Although this is a continuing story as to Caitlyn and her small group of family, friends, etc., there is nevertheless a new murder that is committed in every book, which always involves Caitlyn somehow. Each murder is solved and neatly wrapped up at the end of each book, but there is always a cliffhanger as to Caitlyn's personal background story, which is coming to an end. Those few loose threads should be resolved in the final book. Can't wait!
September 30, 2024
I started reading this series a couple of years ago and for some time, after book 7, we had to wait. By now book 8 is here and book 9 with part 1 & 2 which is the book that is finalizing a great series. I just finished book 8 and just bought book 9. And I am glad I waited a bit for reading them, because I wanted to finish this series in one sitting without having to wait for a next book to come like I did for the past years. Book 8 is awesome and ends on a cliffhanger! I am so glad I found this series many years ago and I loved every book of it every time! Book 8 is up raveling the start of a quest for truth for Caitlyn, the main protagonist. I won’t go into spoilers, but I seriously recommend readers of this series to read it if you haven’t yet! HY Hanna never disappoints and you’re in for a treat! Chocolate is always on the menu but this time it might steer up some trouble for Caitlyn and her family members! In this 8 book, Caitlyn will be confronted with her past, but will it give her the answers she wants to hear? A must read, I say!
November 22, 2024
A Witch Worth Praline For is an enchanting cozy mystery in the Bewitched by Chocolate series by H.Y. Hanna. The series revolves around Caitlyn Le Fey who lives in an attic room in her grandmothers chocolate shop in the Cotswolds village of Tillyhenge.
As with the other books in the series, Caitlyn soon stumbles over a dead body at her beaux’s estate and the death has a few suspicious circumstances that might lend themselves to the supernatural, including a ripped page out of her grandmother’s book of spells. Caitlyn can’t help but get involved in piecing together clues of who might have done it.
I listened to the audiobook version of this story narrated by the impeccable Pearl Hewitt. She narrates with such enthusiasm that it’s impossible not to become totally engaged in the story. This is the 8th book in the series and the first of two concluding the series. I can’t wait to listen to the final book to know who committed the murder! I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys lighthearted cozy mysteries.
As with the other books in the series, Caitlyn soon stumbles over a dead body at her beaux’s estate and the death has a few suspicious circumstances that might lend themselves to the supernatural, including a ripped page out of her grandmother’s book of spells. Caitlyn can’t help but get involved in piecing together clues of who might have done it.
I listened to the audiobook version of this story narrated by the impeccable Pearl Hewitt. She narrates with such enthusiasm that it’s impossible not to become totally engaged in the story. This is the 8th book in the series and the first of two concluding the series. I can’t wait to listen to the final book to know who committed the murder! I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys lighthearted cozy mysteries.
July 3, 2024
Holy crumb cake! What an incredible start to the finale of this series! I wish I had the second part in my hot little hands right now! Caitlin and the crew are preparing for the local Samhain festival at the manor when James’s sister and some of her friends come to visit. The first night, one of them is found dead in the library and while at first the police are content to rule it a heart attack, Caitlin isn’t so convinced. She and the lovely cast of returning characters Ms Hanna created are on the case!! I can already tell the full finale will be amazing and wrap up this sweet(pun intended) series in the best way!
Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
July 8, 2024
I love cozy mysteries and H.Y.Hanna is an absolute master storyteller. I am sad this mystery series is coming to an end but this second from last book does not disappoint. All my favourites are there, Widow Mags, Viktor, Bran and of course the mischievous Nibs.
James is allowing the manor to host the local Samhain festival, his sister Vanessa arrives with some of her friends, one of them Percy is found dead in the library. Caitlyn suspects foul play even though the police think otherwise.
I am so looking forward to the next book, the last in the series, I am hoping for a happy ending for Caitlyn.
Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
James is allowing the manor to host the local Samhain festival, his sister Vanessa arrives with some of her friends, one of them Percy is found dead in the library. Caitlyn suspects foul play even though the police think otherwise.
I am so looking forward to the next book, the last in the series, I am hoping for a happy ending for Caitlyn.
Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
October 22, 2025
After the costume ball, which involved a lot of high society friends of James, Lord Fitzroy, the villagers are invited to a harvest festival called Samhain. But several of the villagers are against the celebration, convinced that it’s a tribute to black magic. They come after the widow Mags, Bertha, Caitlyn, and Evie. James' sister Vanessa arrives with several of her posh friends in tow, and they include Caitlyn in some of their activities. But on the very first night, one of them is found dead in the library, clutching a page of what seems to be the Widow Mag’s secret book of spells called a grimoire. James is certain that Caitlyn’s missing mother might be involved, but Caitlyn finds clues that point to Vanessa.
July 26, 2024
More witches, magic, and a not so sweet family mystery.
I had been waiting for this book since the last one and it was worth it. Getting back into the now familiar atmosphere of Tillyhenge and its colourfull characters was really fun. I particularly enjoyed the fact that we are slowly learning more about Caitlyn family, surprises are in store in this department.
The mystery isn’t solved in this book, you’ll need to wait for the next one. Which means that the story is more complex than the previous ones. I hope the wait will be short for the next instalment.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
I had been waiting for this book since the last one and it was worth it. Getting back into the now familiar atmosphere of Tillyhenge and its colourfull characters was really fun. I particularly enjoyed the fact that we are slowly learning more about Caitlyn family, surprises are in store in this department.
The mystery isn’t solved in this book, you’ll need to wait for the next one. Which means that the story is more complex than the previous ones. I hope the wait will be short for the next instalment.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
July 24, 2024
Pralines
I’ve enjoyed this series very much. I love the secondary characters of Widow Mags, Bertha, Evie, Uncle Viktor and Pamona. But I feel that the relationship between Caitlin and James is rather old fashioned and awkward. I realize that Caitlin is shy but they rarely even have conversations let alone anything else. I know this is a cozy but maybe a little more delving into the relationship would be good. The mystery involved was good and I didn’t guess the final surprise until the last chapter.
I’ve enjoyed this series very much. I love the secondary characters of Widow Mags, Bertha, Evie, Uncle Viktor and Pamona. But I feel that the relationship between Caitlin and James is rather old fashioned and awkward. I realize that Caitlin is shy but they rarely even have conversations let alone anything else. I know this is a cozy but maybe a little more delving into the relationship would be good. The mystery involved was good and I didn’t guess the final surprise until the last chapter.
July 30, 2024
I'm so glad for another book in the chocolate mysteries.Caitlyn is helping to prepare for a local festival and spending more time with Lord Fitzroy. Unfortunately things don't go as planned as someone is found murdered. As she tries to find out what is going on she finds people close to her including the widow Mags, Jame's sister, and maybe some even closer to her. She has to depend on those close to her to find out who to trust and what is really going on. A fun read with really quirky characters.
August 18, 2024
Magic, Murder, and Chocolate
If you've been reading the series you know the main characters and the setting so you'll get that cozy feeling right off. Then new characters enter as the community prepares for a Samhaim celebration and it isn't long before things begin to go awry. The action centers around the great estate and the visitors staying there. Caitlin tries to discover if a new resident might be her long lost mother and if she is involved in a murder at the estate. Nice twists and turns!
If you've been reading the series you know the main characters and the setting so you'll get that cozy feeling right off. Then new characters enter as the community prepares for a Samhaim celebration and it isn't long before things begin to go awry. The action centers around the great estate and the visitors staying there. Caitlin tries to discover if a new resident might be her long lost mother and if she is involved in a murder at the estate. Nice twists and turns!
October 5, 2024
This is the next to last book in the Bewitched by Chocolate series of cozy mysteries. I've been reading this series for the last 5 years, although the first book came out in 2014. Although I've enjoyed the books, the series is on the slow side, the entire series covers only about 6 months, possibly a little more. The romance between the 2 main characters Caitlin and James is extremely slow-burn. This was suppose to be the last book in the series, but the author couldn't quite fit it in one full-length novel, which she released within a 2 month period. I plan to read the final book somewhere around Halloween. I'm giving this 3 and a half stars adjusted to 3GR stars. I'm hoping the final book will end up a 4 or 4.5 star.
January 29, 2025
Book 8 of the Bewitched by Chocolate is another good read with bits of exasperation due to Caitlyn’s insecurity. She’s almost 30 and she’s still acting like a befuddled 10 years old. Nibs, the kitty, is missing and she lets herself get distracted by the slightest thing…. His old is she??? THEN the book ends in a cliffhanger WTH? Cliffhangers are my pet peeve and I hate it when books don’t finish properly. Luckily I’ve got the next book in my kindle but I’m not a happy bunny. The 3 stars are due to the annoying things mentioned above.
July 21, 2024
I've been waiting so long for the next book in the Bewitched By Chocolate series. It didn't disappoint. I throughly enjoyed it! The mystery was well done and kept me guessing right up until the end. But as always with H. Y. Hannah's books it's the wonderful characters that keep me coming back. They are so fun and well written. They jump right off the page! I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a fun read with rich, entertaining characters.
August 4, 2024
was so excited for A Witch Worth Praline For (BEWITCHED BY CHOCOLATE Mysteries ~ Book 8) to come out and it was worth the wait! I enjoyed every second of it! It's in 2 parts (the second part will be in book 9). I can't wait to see what happens next! Unfortunately part 9 will be the last in the series. Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
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