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Wicked Witches of the Midwest #4
Witching on a Star
When you're a witch, being wicked comes naturally.
For the Winchester witches, though, being wicked is only half the fun.
After a long winter, spring has finally hit Hemlock Cove and Bay Winchester thinks things are finally settling down in the town – and with her family. Unfortunately, just the opposite is true.
As a way to distract Aunt Tillie, the Winchester family has decided to give her a new project: Her own greenhouse. As construction starts, though, Bay is approached by a young girl – one she quickly realizes is no longer among the living – and given a task. The litter girl wants her mother – and she wants Bay to find her.
If that wasn't bad enough, Bay's boss has brought in a consultant who wants to up The Monitor's production to three times a week, Bay's father and uncles are in the midst of opening their own rival inn – which has the middle generation of Winchester witches in a tizzy (and Aunt Tillie on the warpath) – and FBI agent Landon Michaels is finally embracing the truth about witchcraft.
In short order, Bay finds out that there may be more than one ghost in need of help, Landon is still suspicious when it comes to the Winchesters and Aunt Tillie finds she has an unlikely suitor in pursuit of her curmudgeonly affections, which doesn't stop her from cursing the youngest witches in the family when the mood hits.
It's just a normal week in Hemlock Cove – that is until the truth about two small ghosts blows sky high and brings a world of trouble to the Winchester witches' doorstep.
For the Winchester witches, though, being wicked is only half the fun.
After a long winter, spring has finally hit Hemlock Cove and Bay Winchester thinks things are finally settling down in the town – and with her family. Unfortunately, just the opposite is true.
As a way to distract Aunt Tillie, the Winchester family has decided to give her a new project: Her own greenhouse. As construction starts, though, Bay is approached by a young girl – one she quickly realizes is no longer among the living – and given a task. The litter girl wants her mother – and she wants Bay to find her.
If that wasn't bad enough, Bay's boss has brought in a consultant who wants to up The Monitor's production to three times a week, Bay's father and uncles are in the midst of opening their own rival inn – which has the middle generation of Winchester witches in a tizzy (and Aunt Tillie on the warpath) – and FBI agent Landon Michaels is finally embracing the truth about witchcraft.
In short order, Bay finds out that there may be more than one ghost in need of help, Landon is still suspicious when it comes to the Winchesters and Aunt Tillie finds she has an unlikely suitor in pursuit of her curmudgeonly affections, which doesn't stop her from cursing the youngest witches in the family when the mood hits.
It's just a normal week in Hemlock Cove – that is until the truth about two small ghosts blows sky high and brings a world of trouble to the Winchester witches' doorstep.
290 pages, Paperback
First published March 17, 2014
1685 people are currently reading
824 people want to read
About the author
Amanda M. Lee
303 books2,896 followersWhen I was a kid, I was torn between whether or not I was going to grow up and be the Incredible Hulk or Wonder Woman. I flirted with being a Jedi Knight for awhile, but I wasn't up for the intense travel associated with the gig. In my teens, I settled on being a writer -- although I had no idea the effort that would entail.
Not only am I a writer now, but I'm a writer in several different mediums. I'm a longtime newspaper reporter, an avid reader and a voracious science fiction fanatic.
Not only am I a writer now, but I'm a writer in several different mediums. I'm a longtime newspaper reporter, an avid reader and a voracious science fiction fanatic.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 270 reviews
September 8, 2016
I love the quick pace, the snarky humor, the funny characters. Amanda does a fantastic job of making you laugh and keeping you interested. Great job.
January 23, 2020
Cute, as usual. The family, their love, their squabbles, and their loyalty is fun to read. The mystery was interesting enough - and not quite as predictable as I thought. I messed up and skipped book #3, which is where Landon and Bay actually start a relationship. Oh well. I loved Aunt Tilly the most, naturally.
December 26, 2016
I am done with this series. I said that 2 books ago, but I mean it this time. :D I listen to the audiobooks and you would think that SOMEONE would tell the narrator that she is misprouncing 'vehemently' after 4 books. I just can't take it anymore.
November 19, 2018
Bay and Landon are enjoying their time together, and Bay is dealing with some stuff at her work. But when a little girl ghost gets into contact with her things get a little crazy. Now, they are looking for a boat filled with children to save, and they better get it together quickly before time runs out.
This book was really good. I enjoyed the drama, and the intense story line to this one as well. The mystery was really crazy and filled with lots of emotional aspects as well. I was really glad with the way this turned out, and I look forward to more in the next book.
This book was really good. I enjoyed the drama, and the intense story line to this one as well. The mystery was really crazy and filled with lots of emotional aspects as well. I was really glad with the way this turned out, and I look forward to more in the next book.
August 1, 2015
Excellent read, the fun these witches have and the poor confusion with their guys makes it a fun read. Love these books, funny, romantic, mystery and don't forget aunt tilly
July 19, 2020
Of all the books so far read this one is the saddest because of the children. Witching you were here was sad because of the content of what that woman went through but this one was sad because of what those children were facing and going through.
Once again we have some brevity due to Aunt Tillie and how she is herself and that woman is a hoot. Landon is as sweet, patient and supportive as ever. Now that Bay has begun to trust him, their relationship can blossom. The dad’s are there but in the background in this book really. This book focuses on Bay and her cousins but mainly Bay and how she figures out what is going on with the children. While this is going on she is dealing with Aunt Tillie and her new project to help distract her, the fathers and how they are upsetting her mom and aunts and her boss thinking of bringing the paper to three publications a week. All the while trying to be open and honest with Landon as he has asked. This is hard only because of what she is doing and the ghosts she is seeing.
the cousins are bickering just as much in this one but you do feel for one of them because of how lonely she seems. We see more wtichcraft get used in this book but to me it still wasn’t enough due to how that has been something the book series is focused on and talked about.
the book is fun and sweet and a quick read. We have a few twists and turns that keep you on your toes but overall it is entertaining and good. Aunt Tillie will keep you in stitches.
Once again we have some brevity due to Aunt Tillie and how she is herself and that woman is a hoot. Landon is as sweet, patient and supportive as ever. Now that Bay has begun to trust him, their relationship can blossom. The dad’s are there but in the background in this book really. This book focuses on Bay and her cousins but mainly Bay and how she figures out what is going on with the children. While this is going on she is dealing with Aunt Tillie and her new project to help distract her, the fathers and how they are upsetting her mom and aunts and her boss thinking of bringing the paper to three publications a week. All the while trying to be open and honest with Landon as he has asked. This is hard only because of what she is doing and the ghosts she is seeing.
the cousins are bickering just as much in this one but you do feel for one of them because of how lonely she seems. We see more wtichcraft get used in this book but to me it still wasn’t enough due to how that has been something the book series is focused on and talked about.
the book is fun and sweet and a quick read. We have a few twists and turns that keep you on your toes but overall it is entertaining and good. Aunt Tillie will keep you in stitches.
February 23, 2018
This was such an entertaining read from start to finish... These quirky characters and their witty humor had me laughing out loud, yet the story becomes balanced with moments of genuine emotion and familial loyalty... I really enjoy the connection amongst these characters especially the growing intensity between Bay and Landon; building their trust and interdependence with one another... The paranormal mystery aspect of this read was quite thrilling and held some important social themes that made it even more poignant... I look forward to continuing with this series and seeing how these characters and their stories continue to evolve... 4 Stars:)
January 18, 2018
Another fun read
Amanda M. Lee does it again! Her sense of humor blends perfectly with her unique and entertaining cast of characters.
In this episode, Bay and her cousins face their fears, their fathers and some bad guys, but save the day (and some kids) in the end. Bay's relationship with Landon grows and we learn a little more about him too!
I can't wait to buy the next volume. I always laugh out loud as I tear through the pages.
Amanda M. Lee does it again! Her sense of humor blends perfectly with her unique and entertaining cast of characters.
In this episode, Bay and her cousins face their fears, their fathers and some bad guys, but save the day (and some kids) in the end. Bay's relationship with Landon grows and we learn a little more about him too!
I can't wait to buy the next volume. I always laugh out loud as I tear through the pages.
October 14, 2025
4.25 stars!
These books are great, even though Bey is starting to get to me a little with her relationship neurosis. Is any fictional female character EVER secure and not anxious or avoidantly attached? Ugh! I see enough of that crap on social media, I don't want it in my pleasure reading too!
I LOVE Aunt Tillie though! She's absolutely my favorite character, all cantankerous and vindictive, but underneath that you can tell she'll do anything to back up her family. Even if she loves tormenting them.
I'm taking a little break from the Winchester witches to read something a tad more meaty but I'll be back!
These books are great, even though Bey is starting to get to me a little with her relationship neurosis. Is any fictional female character EVER secure and not anxious or avoidantly attached? Ugh! I see enough of that crap on social media, I don't want it in my pleasure reading too!
I LOVE Aunt Tillie though! She's absolutely my favorite character, all cantankerous and vindictive, but underneath that you can tell she'll do anything to back up her family. Even if she loves tormenting them.
I'm taking a little break from the Winchester witches to read something a tad more meaty but I'll be back!
March 27, 2020
I am really starting to really like these books. It took a little while to get use to the constant bickering between the characters but this book finally showed a softer side of the characters. I like the little mysteries and it is set in Michigan too! Very weird to read the characters talking about Grand Rapids, Traverse City etc. Kind of cool.
September 15, 2018
Another fun installment.
Once again Amanda M Lee delivers a great Winchester Witches tale. Full of the snappy dialogue, and compelling storytelling that fills this series. Highly recommended.
Once again Amanda M Lee delivers a great Winchester Witches tale. Full of the snappy dialogue, and compelling storytelling that fills this series. Highly recommended.
March 31, 2021
Trigger warning of child abduction. The ghosts in this one are children. One from the past and one from today. I'm glad they stopped the bad guys in this one and saved the girls. I hate how the foster system always seems to fail people. I think I need to find a book where it actually works out for someone for once. I can't get a read on Sam and I don't know if his a good guy or not.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2015
Witching on a Star This is the 4th book in the Wicked Witches of the Midwest series, and overall the best book in the series, but still not without a few things that detracted from the story.
The plot in this one was riveting; Bay sees the ghost of a little girl who wants to find her mother. The last thing the little girl ghost can remember is being on a boat with other kids, and then going to sleep.While investigating, Bay learns of a terrifying new crime and races to solve it before there are more deaths. Meanwhile, she has her hands full while overseeing the building of a new greenhouse for Aunt Tillie, dodging the consultant hired to expand The Whistler, and learning how to trust her relationship with hunky FBI agent Landon.
Aunt Tillie had a lot of endearing moments, it was nice to see the relationship growing between her and Bay into one a bit more supportive. although still testy. The romance was a nice touch, too. That'll be cute if it goes forward.
A great read, and hard to put down. But still, getting tired of the inane childish behavior, especially Thistle, who needs a boot up her ass. Nice that they're starting to be called out on it, though. Maybe this means they'll grow up a bit? Here's hoping.
Also, not sure what the point of Edith's rant was. It didn't add to the story and it really annoyed me. A little too heavy handed, as was all the talk about sex. I'm sure there's a better way of writing than to have one character exclaim about all the orgasms that Landon gives Bay. Really? Goes back to the childish, inane behavior I pointed out earlier. If it's supposed to be funny, it went over my head.
So, overall, 3.5 stars but would've easily been 5 stars if not for the childish BS.
[spoiler]
Major plot hole: The little girl ghost tells Bay (and Landon, by extension) that she's been aboard the new boat and heard that it's leaving in 2 days. They don't bother to ask her where the new boat is, because why wrap the whole mystery up only halfway through the book?
[/spoiler]
The plot in this one was riveting; Bay sees the ghost of a little girl who wants to find her mother. The last thing the little girl ghost can remember is being on a boat with other kids, and then going to sleep.While investigating, Bay learns of a terrifying new crime and races to solve it before there are more deaths. Meanwhile, she has her hands full while overseeing the building of a new greenhouse for Aunt Tillie, dodging the consultant hired to expand The Whistler, and learning how to trust her relationship with hunky FBI agent Landon.
Aunt Tillie had a lot of endearing moments, it was nice to see the relationship growing between her and Bay into one a bit more supportive. although still testy. The romance was a nice touch, too. That'll be cute if it goes forward.
A great read, and hard to put down. But still, getting tired of the inane childish behavior, especially Thistle, who needs a boot up her ass. Nice that they're starting to be called out on it, though. Maybe this means they'll grow up a bit? Here's hoping.
Also, not sure what the point of Edith's rant was. It didn't add to the story and it really annoyed me. A little too heavy handed, as was all the talk about sex. I'm sure there's a better way of writing than to have one character exclaim about all the orgasms that Landon gives Bay. Really? Goes back to the childish, inane behavior I pointed out earlier. If it's supposed to be funny, it went over my head.
So, overall, 3.5 stars but would've easily been 5 stars if not for the childish BS.
[spoiler]
Major plot hole: The little girl ghost tells Bay (and Landon, by extension) that she's been aboard the new boat and heard that it's leaving in 2 days. They don't bother to ask her where the new boat is, because why wrap the whole mystery up only halfway through the book?
[/spoiler]
September 12, 2016
Witching On A Star: Wicked Witches Of The Midwest Book 4.
I am so tempted to give this four stars. Let it be 3.98 stars.
There is no need to read the series in order, but for this book, it would add to the pleasure. AKA, If I read them to get to this gem, shouldn't you?
Bay Winchester is a journalist in a small town. She is also a witch, with the unique ability to see ghosts. Bay shares this gift with her Great Aunt Tillie. The Winchester women are all witches living together in the Town of Hemlock Cove: where they are neither welcomed or shunned.
Plot: The ghost of a girl child, Erika, long dead, is surprised she and Bay can communicate. Erika is sad and lonely because she is looking for her mum. Erika is also sad because there are children trapped on a boat with 'bad people'. She confides in Bay that it will sail in two days. Bay has to work out if Erika has presented a new problem or an old one. And I am not telling you. There are interesting subplots with a ghost, Sam and Aunt Tillie.
Witching On A Star has a strong opening, and the story continues in that vein. It is the most solid book in the series and honestly, it should have been book one. In this narrative, we get the backstory for the family. It helps to put the characters in perspective and the cousin’s adolescent behaviour. That does not mean I find all the bickering and fighting acceptable. I was also impressed with the novel because it dealt with multiculturalism. Wow!
I am still struggling with the constant bickering between the girls, but I have to read book five. You have to read book four to understand the need! So get reading, because this one is highly recommended and is off my guilty secrets list.
Connect with me on Twitter: www.twitter.com/imjussayin2
Book Rating
Sexual Content: U
Language: U
Violent: U
Would I read the next oneor reread ?: Yes
My rating system (* = star)
0* Could not finish this book (waste of time)
1* Finished the book but didn't like it.
2* Finished the book it was okay.
3* A good read worth your time.
4* An excellent read often with a novel concept or unusual plot.
5* A magnificent read. A prominent example of the genre.
I am so tempted to give this four stars. Let it be 3.98 stars.
There is no need to read the series in order, but for this book, it would add to the pleasure. AKA, If I read them to get to this gem, shouldn't you?
Bay Winchester is a journalist in a small town. She is also a witch, with the unique ability to see ghosts. Bay shares this gift with her Great Aunt Tillie. The Winchester women are all witches living together in the Town of Hemlock Cove: where they are neither welcomed or shunned.
Plot: The ghost of a girl child, Erika, long dead, is surprised she and Bay can communicate. Erika is sad and lonely because she is looking for her mum. Erika is also sad because there are children trapped on a boat with 'bad people'. She confides in Bay that it will sail in two days. Bay has to work out if Erika has presented a new problem or an old one. And I am not telling you. There are interesting subplots with a ghost, Sam and Aunt Tillie.
Witching On A Star has a strong opening, and the story continues in that vein. It is the most solid book in the series and honestly, it should have been book one. In this narrative, we get the backstory for the family. It helps to put the characters in perspective and the cousin’s adolescent behaviour. That does not mean I find all the bickering and fighting acceptable. I was also impressed with the novel because it dealt with multiculturalism. Wow!
I am still struggling with the constant bickering between the girls, but I have to read book five. You have to read book four to understand the need! So get reading, because this one is highly recommended and is off my guilty secrets list.
Connect with me on Twitter: www.twitter.com/imjussayin2
Book Rating
Sexual Content: U
Language: U
Violent: U
Would I read the next one
My rating system (* = star)
0* Could not finish this book (waste of time)
1* Finished the book but didn't like it.
2* Finished the book it was okay.
3* A good read worth your time.
4* An excellent read often with a novel concept or unusual plot.
5* A magnificent read. A prominent example of the genre.
January 21, 2015
Deeper storyline and still great cozy
First, Aunt Tillie alone could carry this series. Her antics are both humorous and horrifying. Second, these are warmly funny stories that are adding some heft with consideration of serious issues without losing their charm. Lastly, there are some nice romances developing that don't interrupt and detract from the plot with pages of explicit sex.
First, Aunt Tillie alone could carry this series. Her antics are both humorous and horrifying. Second, these are warmly funny stories that are adding some heft with consideration of serious issues without losing their charm. Lastly, there are some nice romances developing that don't interrupt and detract from the plot with pages of explicit sex.
October 20, 2015
Adorable. Heather recommended this series to me and I finally got around to reading it. It was fantastic. Its like a cross between Charmed and the witty dialogue of Gilmore Girls. Love it. What a fun series. The cherry on top is that there is no cheesy sex...despite it hedging slightly towards paranormal romance.
April 23, 2017
Frustrating
I find it very demeaning for Bay that Landon needs to know Every thing she does says who she talks to an why! He is a real jerk! It is frustrating to read every time Bay an her cousins do something he calls her a lyre and wants to know what their up to! Than he acts like he is aunt Tillies guardian you need to tone him down!!!
I find it very demeaning for Bay that Landon needs to know Every thing she does says who she talks to an why! He is a real jerk! It is frustrating to read every time Bay an her cousins do something he calls her a lyre and wants to know what their up to! Than he acts like he is aunt Tillies guardian you need to tone him down!!!
April 19, 2015
Loving this series!
I enjoyed the first few books in this series but this one has been my favorite so far. I love the family dynamics, the adventure, and the romance. I'm looking forward to more!
I enjoyed the first few books in this series but this one has been my favorite so far. I love the family dynamics, the adventure, and the romance. I'm looking forward to more!
August 25, 2021
It was my reread and no wonder this series has become my comfort read. No matter how bad a day you're having, you cannot help but laugh at Aunt Tillie's shenanigans or the bickering between Bay, Clove and Thistle.
March 12, 2024
Rated
4 Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Kindle Unlimited Read
Another hit
Author Amanda M. Lee did it again with another laugh out loud murder mystery! I just can't get enough of this series!!
4 Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Kindle Unlimited Read
Another hit
Author Amanda M. Lee did it again with another laugh out loud murder mystery! I just can't get enough of this series!!
June 1, 2023
Liked it, but...
A cozy mystery with some humor & supernatural elements and a maturing romance that's a touch darker than the previous ones in the series as it touches on slavery, child ghosts, children in danger, and attempting to reconnect as an adult with a father that abandoned you as a child. Ok that list makes this book sound like a downer, which it is not. However, it's not light and fun either.
I liked this book, I'm invested in the characters, but I also had some issues with it (more details below). For example, does the heroine really have to walk into stupid danger without a cellphone or back up & get herself in need of rescue again? I appreciate that the author keeps the mysteries fresh (i.e. it doesn't start with a dead body every time), but I'd appreciate a fresh type of ending too. Again this book ends with the main mystery solved but with more than one ongoing issue and a bit of a cliffhanger. I recommend reading the series in order.
*****Spoiler Alert*****
This Book Includes
Violence. recollections of children trapped together below deck on boats & implied abuse, children in chains, held at knife & gunpoint, fights for weapon, knocked unconscious, magical ghost attack.
Sex. Sex occurs off-page.
Other. Touches on slavery, racism, child abuse, child murder, reconnecting as an adult with a father that abandoned the character as a child.
Things That Bothered Me
Stupid Heroine
I understand that having the bad guys and good guys confront each other makes a good ending, but this ending made the heroine appear criminally stupid. First, they don't tell the cops / FBI what they're going to try even though they've told them everything else. Second, their plan is to call the cops if the spell works except the heroine doesn't bring her phone. Third, when they split up in the dark they don't use the spell from book 2 that would help them find each other in the dark. Fourth, even though the boat is not going anywhere the heroine gets on it instead of first getting back up. Fifth, the heroine gets in a room with one door that can locked from the outside without having thoroughly checked the area for bad guys. Last but not least, let's nor forget that this is the fourth book and hence the fourth tine she's done something stupid and ended up captured.
Whining Clove & Co-dependency
In the previous books the cousins bickering was funny. However, in this book instead of the author saying that Clove's whining annoyed the heroine, we got to hear Clove whining and it annoyed me. This one crossed the line a bit for me from a funny take of dysfunctional family to a semi-serious maybe that character should move out & try therapy view of co-dependency. Perhaps the characters relationships are just evolving and it is part of the set up for the next book., but it just hit a weird in-between note here for me.
Manufactured Fight
The mid-book fight between the main couple felt a bit manufactured to me. It moved their relationship forward when they made up, but at the time I didn't get why either of those characters reacted with anger in that situation.
Balls In the Air
This book ends with a lot of things unresolved besides the dramatic cliffhanger (the dads situation, the boyfriend's family coming to visit, Brian Kelly owning the paper, the fight with Edith, Aunt Tillie's new relationship). A cliffhanger is one thing, but 10,000 loose ends is another.
A cozy mystery with some humor & supernatural elements and a maturing romance that's a touch darker than the previous ones in the series as it touches on slavery, child ghosts, children in danger, and attempting to reconnect as an adult with a father that abandoned you as a child. Ok that list makes this book sound like a downer, which it is not. However, it's not light and fun either.
I liked this book, I'm invested in the characters, but I also had some issues with it (more details below). For example, does the heroine really have to walk into stupid danger without a cellphone or back up & get herself in need of rescue again? I appreciate that the author keeps the mysteries fresh (i.e. it doesn't start with a dead body every time), but I'd appreciate a fresh type of ending too. Again this book ends with the main mystery solved but with more than one ongoing issue and a bit of a cliffhanger. I recommend reading the series in order.
*****Spoiler Alert*****
This Book Includes
Violence. recollections of children trapped together below deck on boats & implied abuse, children in chains, held at knife & gunpoint, fights for weapon, knocked unconscious, magical ghost attack.
Sex. Sex occurs off-page.
Other. Touches on slavery, racism, child abuse, child murder, reconnecting as an adult with a father that abandoned the character as a child.
Things That Bothered Me
Stupid Heroine
I understand that having the bad guys and good guys confront each other makes a good ending, but this ending made the heroine appear criminally stupid. First, they don't tell the cops / FBI what they're going to try even though they've told them everything else. Second, their plan is to call the cops if the spell works except the heroine doesn't bring her phone. Third, when they split up in the dark they don't use the spell from book 2 that would help them find each other in the dark. Fourth, even though the boat is not going anywhere the heroine gets on it instead of first getting back up. Fifth, the heroine gets in a room with one door that can locked from the outside without having thoroughly checked the area for bad guys. Last but not least, let's nor forget that this is the fourth book and hence the fourth tine she's done something stupid and ended up captured.
Whining Clove & Co-dependency
In the previous books the cousins bickering was funny. However, in this book instead of the author saying that Clove's whining annoyed the heroine, we got to hear Clove whining and it annoyed me. This one crossed the line a bit for me from a funny take of dysfunctional family to a semi-serious maybe that character should move out & try therapy view of co-dependency. Perhaps the characters relationships are just evolving and it is part of the set up for the next book., but it just hit a weird in-between note here for me.
Manufactured Fight
The mid-book fight between the main couple felt a bit manufactured to me. It moved their relationship forward when they made up, but at the time I didn't get why either of those characters reacted with anger in that situation.
Balls In the Air
This book ends with a lot of things unresolved besides the dramatic cliffhanger (the dads situation, the boyfriend's family coming to visit, Brian Kelly owning the paper, the fight with Edith, Aunt Tillie's new relationship). A cliffhanger is one thing, but 10,000 loose ends is another.
Read
January 6, 2020When a child's ghost appears..
When Erika, a young black girl, starts appearing Bay can't help but worry that something is deeply wrong.. not only are there no families she can belong to locally but she seems to be out of her era.. dressed in a simple homemade dress, Erika can't read or count and is finding it difficult to explain her life and death to Bay.. a frustrated Bay only knows that a ship is involved and that it's possible that when Erika slips between past and present tense it's because she's been waiting for so long to be found..
Meanwhile her douche boss Brian, still living at the Overlook, has now decided to bring in a business expert, Sam Cornell, to prove to Bay that The Whistler should expand to a thrice weekly publication. Bay's getting nowhere close to making Brian understand that news in Hemlock Cove cannot sustain more than a single weekly edition. She's wary of Sam whom she's sure knows it too but seems to be determined to push Brian on.. he's also rather too interested in her family and the paranormal.. he does little to calm her suspicions when he appears to be following her around and questioning a smitten and garalous Clove who's not prepared to listen to her cousins warnings.
Clove's on edge anyway having discovered that her father is now engaged to the interior designer "the dad's" have employed at the Dragonfly.. Karen is friendly enough but seems to be just a bit too squeaky clean and know far too many of the new faces in town for Bay and Thistle's liking.. how come Karen's spotted having deep discussions with Sam and Dean, another newbie, who wants to make the Dandridge lighthouse into a haunted attraction.. is she trying to scam Clove's father somehow? With Winnie, Marnie and Twila managing to steal the builders away to build Aunt Tillie a new glasshouse and wine store it doesn't look like they're going to be opening on time and Tillie's definitely keeping the builders busy planning turrets and Goddess knows what else!!
When Erika finds another much more recent ghost and brings her to Bay thing's that didn't add up until suddenly do and they realise there are lives at risk.. lots of very young ones.. but with only ghostly evidence Chief Terry and Landon have limited powers.. can the Winchesters find them in time??
When Erika, a young black girl, starts appearing Bay can't help but worry that something is deeply wrong.. not only are there no families she can belong to locally but she seems to be out of her era.. dressed in a simple homemade dress, Erika can't read or count and is finding it difficult to explain her life and death to Bay.. a frustrated Bay only knows that a ship is involved and that it's possible that when Erika slips between past and present tense it's because she's been waiting for so long to be found..
Meanwhile her douche boss Brian, still living at the Overlook, has now decided to bring in a business expert, Sam Cornell, to prove to Bay that The Whistler should expand to a thrice weekly publication. Bay's getting nowhere close to making Brian understand that news in Hemlock Cove cannot sustain more than a single weekly edition. She's wary of Sam whom she's sure knows it too but seems to be determined to push Brian on.. he's also rather too interested in her family and the paranormal.. he does little to calm her suspicions when he appears to be following her around and questioning a smitten and garalous Clove who's not prepared to listen to her cousins warnings.
Clove's on edge anyway having discovered that her father is now engaged to the interior designer "the dad's" have employed at the Dragonfly.. Karen is friendly enough but seems to be just a bit too squeaky clean and know far too many of the new faces in town for Bay and Thistle's liking.. how come Karen's spotted having deep discussions with Sam and Dean, another newbie, who wants to make the Dandridge lighthouse into a haunted attraction.. is she trying to scam Clove's father somehow? With Winnie, Marnie and Twila managing to steal the builders away to build Aunt Tillie a new glasshouse and wine store it doesn't look like they're going to be opening on time and Tillie's definitely keeping the builders busy planning turrets and Goddess knows what else!!
When Erika finds another much more recent ghost and brings her to Bay thing's that didn't add up until suddenly do and they realise there are lives at risk.. lots of very young ones.. but with only ghostly evidence Chief Terry and Landon have limited powers.. can the Winchesters find them in time??
January 3, 2019
The story opens from the viewpoint of a ghost and then moves on. Aunt Tillie says there is now a war between them and the new inn which involves Bay's father. Edith tells Bay that Brian is once again up to something which turns out his wanting to increase the paper's publication to three times weekly. He's even hired a guy to come to the town and tell him if such a thing is workable.
Bay is bothered by the new guy, Sam, since it seems he might be able to see ghosts. Ekika, the girl ghost at the opening, is a young black girl who talks about begin on board a ship, being badly treated and then dying. Bay figures she was on a slave ship. Things get more complicated, though, when there's a second ghost, a young girl from the present time who died on board a ship with other young kids.
So, Bay, Clove and Thirstle along with Landon need to figure out exactly what happened to both girls. Things get more complicated when it seems the newest ghost may be from a ship that is still operating.
If that wasn't complicated enough it turns out ghost Erika is racist and there's an older guy that might be interested in Aunt Tillie. Then there's the old lighthouse, more kidnapping and more things for Bay and her cousins to solve.
The story also has one of the best ever endings I have read as far as what happens to Erkia's ghost. Another really good book from the author.
Bay is bothered by the new guy, Sam, since it seems he might be able to see ghosts. Ekika, the girl ghost at the opening, is a young black girl who talks about begin on board a ship, being badly treated and then dying. Bay figures she was on a slave ship. Things get more complicated, though, when there's a second ghost, a young girl from the present time who died on board a ship with other young kids.
So, Bay, Clove and Thirstle along with Landon need to figure out exactly what happened to both girls. Things get more complicated when it seems the newest ghost may be from a ship that is still operating.
If that wasn't complicated enough it turns out ghost Erika is racist and there's an older guy that might be interested in Aunt Tillie. Then there's the old lighthouse, more kidnapping and more things for Bay and her cousins to solve.
The story also has one of the best ever endings I have read as far as what happens to Erkia's ghost. Another really good book from the author.
July 29, 2025
This series is honestly a bit of a conundrum for me. I really enjoy it… but then certain characters and choices make me want to scream into a pillow.
Like, seriously? Your boyfriend is literally in the FBI. If you insist on investigating some highly dangerous place, TAKE THE BOYFRIEND. Not your whiny cousin who doesn’t want to be there in the first place. And while we’re at it, STOP LYING TO THE BOYFRIEND! He’s already proven he’ll go along with your schemes,just bloody tell him and save us all the drama.
And don’t even get me started on the moms. Absolutely scandalized at their daughters (who are over 20, mind you) having boyfriends over (gasp!) or, heaven forbid, sex (double gasp!). But having a pot field they grow and can dip into? Totally fine. Sure, Jan.
And Clove… oh Clove. Please stop whinging. I’m begging. It’s like she’s made it her full-time job to be negative about absolutely everything.
Don’t get me wrong I like the series! It always starts out fun and quirky, but somewhere in the last three-quarters, it’s like, “Cool, hand me a spoon so I can poke my eyes out.” Still, I keep coming back, because despite all the above, it’s a ride I weirdly can’t quit
Like, seriously? Your boyfriend is literally in the FBI. If you insist on investigating some highly dangerous place, TAKE THE BOYFRIEND. Not your whiny cousin who doesn’t want to be there in the first place. And while we’re at it, STOP LYING TO THE BOYFRIEND! He’s already proven he’ll go along with your schemes,just bloody tell him and save us all the drama.
And don’t even get me started on the moms. Absolutely scandalized at their daughters (who are over 20, mind you) having boyfriends over (gasp!) or, heaven forbid, sex (double gasp!). But having a pot field they grow and can dip into? Totally fine. Sure, Jan.
And Clove… oh Clove. Please stop whinging. I’m begging. It’s like she’s made it her full-time job to be negative about absolutely everything.
Don’t get me wrong I like the series! It always starts out fun and quirky, but somewhere in the last three-quarters, it’s like, “Cool, hand me a spoon so I can poke my eyes out.” Still, I keep coming back, because despite all the above, it’s a ride I weirdly can’t quit
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2023
Unlike the last book in the series which took place in the winter, this book takes place in the spring.
Surprisingly, Bay was not as unlikeable as she has been in the first 3 books of the series. I don't know what changed but she didn't irk me in this book.
While the family is building a new greenhouse for Aunt Tillie, Bay is approached by the ghost of a little girl who wants Bay to find her mother for her. As if that wasn't enough, Bay's newspaper boss wants to up publication 3 times a week rather than one. To make matters even worse, Bay, Thistle, and Clove's fathers come to town and decide to stay and they are building an inn to compete with the bed and breakfast run by Bay's mom and her sisters. Finally, to top it all off Aunt Tillie has a romantic suitor!!!!
I find Landon to be controlling and Bay subservient which, coming from the family she was born in, and with being a witch, doesn't make sense. I realize that Landon is an FBI agent and is used to giving orders but...he is not the man I would want my daughter to be with! :)
Surprisingly, Bay was not as unlikeable as she has been in the first 3 books of the series. I don't know what changed but she didn't irk me in this book.
While the family is building a new greenhouse for Aunt Tillie, Bay is approached by the ghost of a little girl who wants Bay to find her mother for her. As if that wasn't enough, Bay's newspaper boss wants to up publication 3 times a week rather than one. To make matters even worse, Bay, Thistle, and Clove's fathers come to town and decide to stay and they are building an inn to compete with the bed and breakfast run by Bay's mom and her sisters. Finally, to top it all off Aunt Tillie has a romantic suitor!!!!
I find Landon to be controlling and Bay subservient which, coming from the family she was born in, and with being a witch, doesn't make sense. I realize that Landon is an FBI agent and is used to giving orders but...he is not the man I would want my daughter to be with! :)
December 22, 2023
This is the last book I will read in this series. I would give this a one star, but I admire the authors fast no-nonsense light style. I would even consider reading a different series from the author in the far future.
The problem with these books has been the relationships. I hope that Lee doesn't think that the relationships in these books are in any way realistic or even worthy of description, or that the dialog between characters is at all representative of adult relationships.
Book after book is like reading a 17 year olds' version of adulting...
Whole chapters of these books don't further the mystery. Instead you get three or four adults acting like 12 year olds about just the dumbest things...which I've realized is all these books are about.
I can't really even describe how hard it is to read the mean and petty banter between characters - and I must be really missing the boat if readers keep coming back for more.
The problem with these books has been the relationships. I hope that Lee doesn't think that the relationships in these books are in any way realistic or even worthy of description, or that the dialog between characters is at all representative of adult relationships.
Book after book is like reading a 17 year olds' version of adulting...
Whole chapters of these books don't further the mystery. Instead you get three or four adults acting like 12 year olds about just the dumbest things...which I've realized is all these books are about.
I can't really even describe how hard it is to read the mean and petty banter between characters - and I must be really missing the boat if readers keep coming back for more.
May 6, 2020
Sometime in the mid-19th Century, a group of young black children, including a girl named Erika and her brother, were collected onto a boat and sent North to protect them from slavers. Unfortunately, somewhere in Lake Michigan, Erika became ill and died.
Some 160 years later, Bay Winchester, editor of Hemlock Cove's weekly newspaper, The Whistler, and a witch who can see and speak with the dead, encounters Erika's ghost and decides to help her move on. Meanwhile, Bay's dad and the dads of her two cousins are moving forward with their plans to refurbish the ruined Dragonfly Inn (in competition with their ex-wives), and Brian, the owner of The Whistler, wants to make it a thrice-weekly publication. And while all this is going on, Aunt Tillie finds a new suitor.
All just part of the dull, peaceful life that is Hemlock Cove!
Some 160 years later, Bay Winchester, editor of Hemlock Cove's weekly newspaper, The Whistler, and a witch who can see and speak with the dead, encounters Erika's ghost and decides to help her move on. Meanwhile, Bay's dad and the dads of her two cousins are moving forward with their plans to refurbish the ruined Dragonfly Inn (in competition with their ex-wives), and Brian, the owner of The Whistler, wants to make it a thrice-weekly publication. And while all this is going on, Aunt Tillie finds a new suitor.
All just part of the dull, peaceful life that is Hemlock Cove!
October 21, 2020
A refreshing change
I love Amanda Lee’s brand of humor! Yes, her characters are snarky... but you can credit growing up with Aunt Tillie for that. The feisty octogenarian adds flavor to the books. She’s one of my favorite characters. These are murder mysteries with a twist, and the humor is refreshing. They are light, a quick read, entertaining, and not overloaded with sex. And you don’t get so swamped with details that you can’t follow the story line.
In spite of all the snipes and jabs, you can tell this family loves each other, and woo to anyone who threatens one of them! True, these books aren’t for everyone, so go read another typical murder mystery if this isn’t your cup of tea - nothing wrong with that. I just happen to like Chai tea, and Amanda Lee definitely delivers!
I love Amanda Lee’s brand of humor! Yes, her characters are snarky... but you can credit growing up with Aunt Tillie for that. The feisty octogenarian adds flavor to the books. She’s one of my favorite characters. These are murder mysteries with a twist, and the humor is refreshing. They are light, a quick read, entertaining, and not overloaded with sex. And you don’t get so swamped with details that you can’t follow the story line.
In spite of all the snipes and jabs, you can tell this family loves each other, and woo to anyone who threatens one of them! True, these books aren’t for everyone, so go read another typical murder mystery if this isn’t your cup of tea - nothing wrong with that. I just happen to like Chai tea, and Amanda Lee definitely delivers!
April 21, 2023
Good Read from this author, and the overall arc of the story is being built up pretty good. I see more depth happening and I like that the author finally has limited the general introductions. Usually we get the whole introduction of everything every book, which really isn't needed since you wouldn't be reading book number 4 of the series out of order or as a stand alone.
I think most of the characters need a little more development, by book 4 of a series most are more developed but we shall see how things progress.
I thought Bay's interaction with Erika was tiresome and frustrating because she was causing herself to be frustrated knowing who and what she was interacting with - I don't want to give spoilers but you will see what I mean when you read.
Other than that overall a good read.
I think most of the characters need a little more development, by book 4 of a series most are more developed but we shall see how things progress.
I thought Bay's interaction with Erika was tiresome and frustrating because she was causing herself to be frustrated knowing who and what she was interacting with - I don't want to give spoilers but you will see what I mean when you read.
Other than that overall a good read.
June 14, 2018
The slave trade brings out the worst in people
Awesome if slightly disturbing. A young girl's ghost has her trying to sort out what is happening now and what has happened in the past. (I really don't like books where children have died but it was treated with sympathy and feeling) Can she clear this up? Especially as her new boss is on a tear to make the newspaper's distribution rise by bring in a consultant who is hiding secrets, the absentee father's have shocked the girl's by the engagement of one of them and Aunt Tillie is on a roll. Wonderfully written with great banter and humour. Great romantic treatment that doesn't force the issue. Okay the culprits where easy to spot but this in no way detracted from a great read. A really great series.
Awesome if slightly disturbing. A young girl's ghost has her trying to sort out what is happening now and what has happened in the past. (I really don't like books where children have died but it was treated with sympathy and feeling) Can she clear this up? Especially as her new boss is on a tear to make the newspaper's distribution rise by bring in a consultant who is hiding secrets, the absentee father's have shocked the girl's by the engagement of one of them and Aunt Tillie is on a roll. Wonderfully written with great banter and humour. Great romantic treatment that doesn't force the issue. Okay the culprits where easy to spot but this in no way detracted from a great read. A really great series.
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