Maple Sugar and Magic

by Tara Lush

Welcome to Hemlock Hollow, where the maple syrup flows, the magic never stops, and at least one moose talks...

Life's been a struggle recently for fifty-four-year-old witch Renee Zinn. But when she returns to her Vermont hometown for Thanksgiving, her everyday troubles are turned upside down by glowing sap, enchanted fireflies, and trees that refuse to lose their leaves.

Despite her sister's push to sell the family’s general store, Renee finds herself drawn back to Hemlock Hollow. But there's more to the old shop than meets the eye, as Renee soon discovers — in a whirlwind of magic, misadventure, singing wildlife, and endless cups of maple-infused everything.

A small town with endless secrets, strange phenomena, and forever friends…

This book is for you if you

Mysteries set in magical New England towns

Witches, talking animals, and maple-flavored mayhem

The idea of a general store that's also a witchy supply shop

Gentle magic woven into everyday life

Whimsical world-building with a Vermont twist

Paranormal women's fiction

A midlife main character rediscovering her roots

A big dose of humor and heart!



MAPLE SUGAR AND MAGIC is a spin-off novella to the Crescent Moon Mystery series. It can be read as a standalone. Enjoy with your favorite warm beverage and a cozy blanket…

Genres: Mystery, Fiction

106 pages, ebook

Published November 4, 2024

About the author

Tara Lush is a RWA Rita finalist, an Amtrak writing fellow and the winner of the George C. Polk award for environmental journalism.
She also writes contemporary romance set in tropical locations under the name Tamara Lush. For many years, she was a journalist with The Associated Press.
Tara is a fan of vintage pulp fiction book covers, Sinatra-era jazz, 1980s fashion, tropical chill, kombucha, gin, tonic, seashells, iPhones, Art Deco, telenovelas, street art, coconut anything, strong coffee and newspapers. She lives on the Gulf coast with her husband and Shih Tzu.

Reviews

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this luckily as an first ARC !! I love this book. It was so refreshing. I like the witch component and the magic component, and especially the talking moose .None of it seemed odd or weird in a good way. I would definitely read more of these, especially if there was a mystery involved. 🫎🍁

[Linda Langford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute prequel to the Crescent Moon Mystery series.

[Lori Leaf · Rating 4 out of 5]

What to expect:
🦃Fall in New England
🦃Witch coven & magic woven in to everyday life
🦃A talking moose
🦃A midlife main character

My thoughts: This book was SO cute and has be eagerly anticipating the upcoming series, Hemlock Hollow. I loved that it focused on introducing us to the characters and building a charming world. I really look Forward to seeing where this series goes.

[Beth-l Cole · Rating 4 out of 5]

This gentle, sweet, cold-weather tale kept my interest throughout the entirety of the novella. Interesting characters and plot points dosed with humor and a bit of magic made for a fun read. I hope the series continues.

[Terra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maple Sugar and Magic follows Renee, one of friends and fellow Sister of Hecate coven member. It finds her returning home to Vermont for Thanksgiving. From the moment she arrives in Hemlock Hollow, she senses a magical pull. Home. As she helps in preparations for Thanksgiving, she continues to feel that pull in her heart. The sense of home. The sense of belonging. The memories of where she grew up pull to her along with the help of her mom, her best friend Cheryl, her Aunt E, and her ex Ash - who is sporting a very fine beard indeed! All this mixed in with thetowns's magic and a talking and Sinatra singing moose? An amazing branch off the Crescent Moin Mysteries, I am looking forward to seeing what else Hemlock Hollow has to offer!

[Chrissy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Genre: Cozy mystery
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Features: 
🍁 A cozy New England town near a maple orchard.

🔮 Small town life mixed with light doses of magic. 

🍁 A small mystery occurring around Thanksgiving.

🔮 A singing moose. Loved him! 

This novella was great! Honestly, I wish it was a full length novel. Loved reading about a slice of life in the fall. Super cozy and comforting.

The author mentioned towards the end that there might be another book in this series, so fingers crossed. 

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25⭐️
This was such a joy to read. Perfect fall atmosphere. Magic, mystery and food! I hope we can catch up with all of the Hemlock Hollow folks in the future. 🤞🏻

[Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

First book by this author but won’t be the last. It was an arc that I really enjoyed reading and can’t wait to see where future books go with the characters.

[ReadThisAndSteep · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novella is the prequel to a brand new paranormal cozy mystery series, a spinoff of the popular Crescent Moon Mysteries. My first time reading this author, and I loved this witchy tale!

One of the immediate draws of this novella is the relatable protagonist, Renee Zinn. A fifty-four-year-old witch, she's still trying to figure life out and is at a crossroads. Her return to her Vermont hometown of Hemlock Hollow for Thanksgiving becomes a trip down memory lane as she reconnects with family, her childhood best friend, her handsome ex, and townsfolk. Her family has run the town's general store/witch supply shop for decades, but her mother's slowing down, and her sister Pippa wants to sell it. As Renee grapples with personal and familial challenges, she's pulled into a local mystery.

This is not a whodunnit, although there are strange occurrences in the woods that Renee looks into. Instead, this is a character-driven introduction rich in world-building. The charming setting is a small Vermont town brimming with magic, witches, maple everything, and even a talking animal. In addition to getting to know Renee, we learn about her family's history in Hemlock Hollow and meet some warm supporting characters. The magic is woven in organically as are other paranormal elements. Renee can read auras, which I loved as a way to learn more about everyone.

Since this is the beginning of the spinoff series, readers can jump in here and not feel lost. This novella is well-written, super cozy, and chock full of nostalgic 80s references and witchy fall vibes. It is a quick, fun read, and I cannot wait for the first book of the series! A great pick for anyone who enjoys paranormal mysteries or lighter witchy reads.

Thank you to the author for the gifted ARC, all opinions are my own.

[bella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Renee Zinn is returning home to Hemlock Hollow for the holidays. Hemlock Hollow is nestled in Vermont and is more than a little witchy. However, this Thanksgiving it seems to be extra-witchy with locals and tourists saying they see something in the woods! With the help of her best friend and family, Renee is determined to get to the bottom of this puzzle!

I'm a big fan of the Crescent Moon mysteries, and Maple Sugar and Magic is the first book in the spin-off series featuring Renee Zinn, who currently resides with all our witchy friends in Cypress Grove. When I heard about a spin-off series well I leapt on it like a perimenopausal woman on chocolate [okay that's me on chocolate!]. I'm happy to report if you love the Crescent Moon mysteries you are going to LOVE the Hemlock Hollow mysteries.

There is just something about Hemlock Hollow. Maybe Tara Lush infused a little extra magic here, but the story just drew me in right away. In this novella, we meet many residents of Hemlock Hollow, including two of my favourites... Kent the moose, and Dave the cat! While the characters and mystery were excellent, I will definitely be coming back to the series because of Kent and Dave. Why? Well you'll have to read the story to find out for yourself!!

In addition to be being a great story, Tara Lush has created something so important with these two series. She's created characters and situations that I see myself in. Going through perimenopause can be a really trying time, and I'm really enjoying these mysteries because they are making women like me a little less invisible, and showing the world how much we have to give. Plus there is murder, which is always fun to solve!!

[Louise Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a huge fan of Tara Lush’s Crescent Moon Mystery Series, and Renee was one of my favorite characters. So when I heard about Maple Sugar and Magic, the first in her Hemlock Hollow mysteries with Renee as the protagonist, I was all over it. And this book did not disappoint.

Renee leaves Florida to spend Thanksgiving with family in her Vermont hometown. As a native New Englander, I loved the depiction of Hemlock Hollow. It’s the quintessential small New England town, well... with witches. The friendships and family relationships depicted in this book are wonderful. Especially between Renee and her aging mother. It was touching, authentic, and beautiful.

And as always with a book by Tara Lush there are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments along with the heartwarming. All with a dash of mystery and a dollop of witchy magic on top. I can’t wait for the next book to get back to Hemlock Hollow for another visit. Do yourself a favor and read Maple Sugar and Magic. You won’t be sorry you did.

[Susan Reads Cozies · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novella is a spin off from the Crescent Moon Mysteries. It’s not your typical cozy mystery. There is no murder to solve. There are some magical things going on in the woods of Hemlock Hollow that Renee wants to look into.

This is a fun and magical read for the fall season. Hemlock Hollow seems like the perfect getaway for some small-town coziness and maple syrup goodness. My favorite part is the singing moose that sounds like Frank Sinatra (yes, you read that correctly!). I cannot wait to see if anything happens between Renee and Asher. The small hints of a possible romance that may still be lingering is enough to keep me wanting more.

I had such a good time reading this. I am looking forward to seeing what else this town has to offer.

Thank you to the author for my copy in exchange for a review.

[Kristina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maple Sugar and Magic

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“ Welcome to Hemlock Hollow, where the maple syrup flows, the magic never stops, and at least one moose talks...
Life's been a struggle recently for fifty-four-year-old witch Renee Zinn. But when she returns to her Vermont hometown for Thanksgiving, her everyday troubles are turned upside down by glowing sap, enchanted fireflies, and trees that refuse to lose their leaves.”



Wow! Loved this quick read. I love the crescent moon series and I was so excited for this one and Tara didn’t disappoint. One of my bucket list places is Vermont in fall so this quenched that thirst. Love all the magical people and things. I really enjoyed the characters and the plot. The moose was one of my favorite things. Can’t wait to see where this series goes. Highly recommend this one and can’t wait for the next.

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun Thanksgiving novella!

Maple Sugar and Magic is a witchy cozy novella by Tara Lush. Our main character Renee is back in Hemlock Hollow for the coven Thanksgiving feast. Widowed and living alone in Florida, Renee is figuring out the next chapter in her life. At first, Renee feels like a bit of an outsider in Hemlock Hollow.
She is making the most of her time by helping out at her mom and aunt’s shop, reconnecting with old friends, and trying to figure out a magical and mysterious phenomenon happening in the woods!

This was a quick, fun, and magical read, perfect for the Fall season.
Thank you to the author for the digital arc, and for letting me share my early thoughts on Maple Sugar and Magic.

[MB Bertram · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know that feeling when a book grabs you from the first line? When you feel like you are part of the story (or you really want to be)? That's the vibe I got as soon as I started Maple Sugar and Magic by Tara Lush.
We follow Renee Zinn, a fifty-four year old witch from the Crescent Moon Mysteries, as she arrives home in Hemlock Hollow, Vermont for Thanksgiving.
This novella introduces Renee's family, friends, and hometown to start (what I hope is) a new witchy series. I really want to spend more time with these characters. They already feel like close friends. I'm looking forward to more witches, talking animals, magical mayhem, and mystery.
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Nini · Rating 5 out of 5]

You can’t go wrong with a book written by Tara Lush. I really enjoyed this novella. Partly because I was having Crescent Moon withdrawals and secondly because this book brought some nostalgia to me. She mentions the character’s roots from Quebec Canada and recipes which my family makes on Thanksgiving and at Christmas. I also got goosebumps when I read that Renee’s dog is named Bosco. This was the name of my pup that passed away earlier this year. The storyline captured me from the start. It was a quick read but you felt immersed in this world. I really hope that we will get more about these characters (like will she see Ash again? Will she move back home?) and more of Hemlock Hallow. If you love cozy mysteries, this one’s for you!

I gave this one 5⭐️

[Miss W Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maple Sugar and Magic is a wonderful Novella that features Renee from the Crescent Moon Mystery series returning home to Vermont for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Hemlock Hollow is a place that just feels like home. She is back in her hometown where she grew up and left to move to sunny Florida. She is happy to be home with her mom, her Aunt, and her bestie Cheryl.

Let's not forget about Ash, her dashing EX! Have I mentioned the glowing sap trees and the talking Moose?

I loved that the mystery wasn't a murder, but still a fantastic mystery with fun clues to chase down along with the characters.

This introduction to Hemlock Cove is not to be missed. I LOVE the Cresent Moon series, so I am excited to see what this new series can bring!

Highly recommend!

[booksy.tx.ana · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a wonderful story. 
This was such an amazing way to set up a story and a whole new world. It’s an easy-to-read novella. It was quick and so enjoyable. I haven’t read the Crescent Moon series, but I was able to read this with no problems. It would work so well as a set-up for a spinoff new series. I really liked Renee. She’s trying to find her place, and sometimes going back home is the answer. Even if it’s temporary. I’d love to read more about her adventures. 

Come read with me on instagram @booksy.tx.ana

[Marisa Huff · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is related to the Crescent Moon Mystery series

In this quick story we find our friend Renee from Florida visit her family for Thanksgiving in Hemlock Hollow, Vermont.

The family owns the general store, with a second floor full of items for the witchy crowd.

This book represents a family that is struggling with some tough decisions, including our main character.

A past love interest.

A fabulous pie recipe.

Witchy Vibes.

Fall Setting.

Oh. And a talking/singing moose.

This is a great cozy read for fall, and can be read as a stand alone (but I fully recommend reading the full series, it’s amazing!).

Book releases 11/04/2024

[Jennifer Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun addition to the Crescent Moon universe

This novella is a great character study of one of the secondary characters from the Crescent Moon Inn series. The cozy, comforting vibe is established from the very first line and, while this is more of a soul-searching story than a mystery, there are touches of magic and slow burn romance that are on-brand for the series. It's the perfect length to read on a flight to a wonderful autumn destination. Renee, the MC, is likable and relatable, and I really hope we get more of her adventures in the future!

[Cozy Reader Lady · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Maple Sugar and Magic (Crescent Moon Mysteries)" by Tara Lush seemed to be maybe setting up for a spin off series from the Crescent Moon series. Or, at least it could. I want more talking/singing Moose. It could just be a series of novelas even. Quick little cozy mysteries that don't involve murder but rather just odd magic about town. They could even be holiday related, this one having Thanksgiving. The next could be April Fool's day as Renee moves back.

[Larry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not many stories give you a sense of being soothed, but this one did for me. It was a way of showing me my troubles are not the end all of Life and I sorely needed that. The characters are quite interesting ( I love stories about white witches or light witches) the plot is straightforward and easily followed, and the premise is the main character needed to make a decision about her life and did so. I most definitely recommend this story.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this little novella. All the way through, I just kept thinking, "Move home, Renee. Leave Florida. It's great, but Hemlock Hollow is where you belong. Move home. Move home. Move home." Seriously, I love Cypress Grove and Amelia's Florida gang, but Renee's Hemlock Hollow is just as captivating, but in a slightly different way. I absolutely LOVED this! I'm hoping we get more Renee stories in Hemlock Hollow. And, well, I mean who doesn't love a talking, singing moose?!

[Jo Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute and humorous story about a middle-aged witch who comes home to Vermont for Thanksgiving. She has lived in Florida for years, but now that her beloved husband has dies, she wonders if it's time to return home to help her aging mother.
A talking moose and maple trees with still vibrant leaves in November has her and her childhood best friend wondering what sort of magic is at play.
Enjoyable and fun, with very likable characters.

[Spinneretta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good

This is a tale of one of Amelia’s coven mates, Renee, and the start of her new life.
A trip back home to Hemlock Hollow for Thanksgiving, shows Renee exactly what she really wants from life, and how she can achieve it.

It’s a quick read, and an enjoyable magical tale set in Vermont.
The characters are just as quirky as their Florida counterparts, and I’m looking forward to reading more about Renee’s new adventures.

[Nicola “Shortbookthyme” · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you @the.book.lush for the opportunity to read the ARC of Maple Sugar and Magic. This is my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

My thoughts:
Welcome to Hemlock Hollow….a town with witches, animals that talk, mystery galore and magical magic. And, everything is maple-infused.
I enjoyed getting to know Renee as well the residents of Hemlock Cove.
The characters are interesting and quirky.
What else will you encounter with reading Maple Sugar and Magic?
💚Enchanted fireflies
🤎Trees that refuse to lose their leaves
💛Glowing tree sap
We are left wondering what Renee’s next step is going to be. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
I loved the Crescent Moon series by author Tara Lush. I was excited to read Maple Sugar and Magic which is a spin-off novella to the Crescent Moon series.
A must read for fans of magical witchy vibes and paranormal normal stories.

👀Added bonus: a recipe for Maple Sugar Pie….which I plan on “attempting” to make for our Thanksgiving this year

#shortbookthyme #taralush #maplesugarandmagic #paranormalwomensfiction #paracozy #cozymystery #cozyread #cozymysteries #readersofinstagram #cozymysterybooks #bookworm #yournextread #vermont #maplesugarpie #enchantedfireflies

[Amanda Reads Cozies · Rating 4 out of 5]

After a rough year that included being a murder suspect, Renee heads home to Vermont for Thanksgiving with her mom and her coven. Is family, downtime, and Vermont what she needs to get her spark back?

I really liked the pace of this novella, and the authenticity. I loved the characters and the community.

[Janet Hendricks · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Endearing Short

It's Thanksgiving week and memories of good times and laughter fill the air. For the family at the Hollow Country Store, change is in the air as mothers look to their children for support and life long friends embrace once again after decades apart. A lovely holiday story. Enjoy!

[JoAn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cute novella introducing the characters for a spinoff of the Crescent Moon cozy series. Set in Vermont, Renee has returned to her hometown for Thanksgiving. A magical small town with likable characters that were developing well during this book. I look forward to the next book in this magical cozy series.

[Shelby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Obviously just setting up the background

Not a bad paranormal cozy. But it's billed as a mystery, and there is not much mysterious about the story. Renee is a witch from an entire Vermont village of witches. She's returned home for Thanksgiving. That is the gist of the story.