What do you think?
Rate this book
The Hollowbeck Paranormal Cozy Mysteries #2
One Smart Witch
A talking cat accused of murder. A magical carnival with sinister secrets. And a sleuth who’s running out of time.
When a traveling carnival arrives in Hollowbeck, it promises magic and mayhem. It’s also an opportunity for Morgan to find someone who can transform her brother, Ruiner, back into a human – he’s a little tired of being a talking cat, and she’s a little tired of cleaning his litter box.
Things look promising until the curtains rise on rehearsal night to reveal Ruiner sitting on the lifeless body of the wizard who promised to help him.
Ruiner swears he’s innocent, but that doesn’t stop the carnival boss from seizing him. He’ll be tried under carnival law. If found guilty, he faces certain death – and it’s not like it’s going to be a fair trial.
Morgan can’t lose her brother, but she can’t do anything from the outside, either. Her only hope is to infiltrate the carnival and find the real murderer before it’s too late.
But the magic carnival holds dangerous secrets of its own, and it’s soon clear Ruiner’s life isn’t only one at risk…
One Smart Witch is the second book in The Hollowbeck Paranormal Cozy Mysteries series from Amelia Ash and bestselling author Kim M. Watt. Join Morgan and Ruiner as a magic carnival comes to town, bringing along mystery and murder.
When a traveling carnival arrives in Hollowbeck, it promises magic and mayhem. It’s also an opportunity for Morgan to find someone who can transform her brother, Ruiner, back into a human – he’s a little tired of being a talking cat, and she’s a little tired of cleaning his litter box.
Things look promising until the curtains rise on rehearsal night to reveal Ruiner sitting on the lifeless body of the wizard who promised to help him.
Ruiner swears he’s innocent, but that doesn’t stop the carnival boss from seizing him. He’ll be tried under carnival law. If found guilty, he faces certain death – and it’s not like it’s going to be a fair trial.
Morgan can’t lose her brother, but she can’t do anything from the outside, either. Her only hope is to infiltrate the carnival and find the real murderer before it’s too late.
But the magic carnival holds dangerous secrets of its own, and it’s soon clear Ruiner’s life isn’t only one at risk…
One Smart Witch is the second book in The Hollowbeck Paranormal Cozy Mysteries series from Amelia Ash and bestselling author Kim M. Watt. Join Morgan and Ruiner as a magic carnival comes to town, bringing along mystery and murder.
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 30, 2024
199 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
October 7, 2024
☾˚ 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘲𝘶𝘪𝘤𝘬𝘭𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘧𝘢𝘷𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘻𝘺 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘭 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘴. ｡˚☕︎
Just like the first book, this installment is masterfully crafted with an excellent flow. The vivid descriptions of the setting remain the series' greatest strength. The town is depicted so vividly that it feels like home—warm and familiar. In contrast, the circus looms ominously, an ever-present and unavoidable threat.
The authors' ability to continuously draw me back into the story was truly astounding. Just when it seemed like Morgan was finally winning, she faced another setback, yet she persevered. It was heartening to witness Morgan's growing courage as she navigated the challenges of embracing her identity as a witch while managing a magic shop. I believe it's time for her to fully accept her true self and her magical heritage.
I was truly captivated by how the town and its characters are evolving, becoming more tangible and cohesive with each page. By the end of the book, Ruiner's newfound care for his sister was a touching and significant moment. I sincerely hope he continues on this path and doesn't revert to his old ways.
Overall, this book is yet another charming and cozy adventure, brimming with humor and heart.
Just like the first book, this installment is masterfully crafted with an excellent flow. The vivid descriptions of the setting remain the series' greatest strength. The town is depicted so vividly that it feels like home—warm and familiar. In contrast, the circus looms ominously, an ever-present and unavoidable threat.
The authors' ability to continuously draw me back into the story was truly astounding. Just when it seemed like Morgan was finally winning, she faced another setback, yet she persevered. It was heartening to witness Morgan's growing courage as she navigated the challenges of embracing her identity as a witch while managing a magic shop. I believe it's time for her to fully accept her true self and her magical heritage.
I was truly captivated by how the town and its characters are evolving, becoming more tangible and cohesive with each page. By the end of the book, Ruiner's newfound care for his sister was a touching and significant moment. I sincerely hope he continues on this path and doesn't revert to his old ways.
Overall, this book is yet another charming and cozy adventure, brimming with humor and heart.
Read
January 13, 2026To my surprise, I'm setting this aside at 35%. I had hoped that this would be another Kim Watt series that would become a comfort read for me, but I'm not getting traction with this one. Instead, I'm becoming impatient with and looking for a fast-forward button.
There are a lot of things about the book that should be pulling me along.
The situation: a magical village that Morgan has stumbled into and can't leave; her brother having been turned into a talking cat, Morgan's emerging role as the town witch and an ensemble cast of strange but likeable village residents.
The plot: the idea of a threatening, possibly predatory, semi-sentient magic Carnival with its own rules has a lot of potential. So does turning Morgan into an amateur sleuth.
The humour: some of the dialogue and the descriptions make me laugh and keep me engaged.
So what's getting in the way?
The point of view: Kim Watt normally writes in the Limited Third-Person. This story is told in the first person. That slows the story down, makes exposition more challenging and puts a lot of weight on the quality of the main character.
Morgan and Ruiner: Morgan and her brother, Ruiner, need to carry the story. Morgan doesn't have much going for her. She's nice enough in an everywoman sort of way, but nothing about her stands out. She has no particular abilities that she's aware of, although there are hints that she's a latent magic user. She's fairly passive except when it comes to rescuing her brother. There's not enough to Morgan to keep me engaged. Ruiner is not only hard to like, he's hard to care about. Him being at risk does not cause me any worry. Morgan would be better off without him.
The pace: Maybe it's the first-person point of view, but the pace seems very slow. Imp a third of the way through the book, yet the first body has only just hit, and Morgan has yet to do anything but bemoan her ignorance. I'm sure she's about to do something, but it all takes too long to keep me interested.
So, I'm setting 'One Smart Witch' and the Hollowbeck Paranormal Cosy Mystery series aside.
There are a lot of things about the book that should be pulling me along.
The situation: a magical village that Morgan has stumbled into and can't leave; her brother having been turned into a talking cat, Morgan's emerging role as the town witch and an ensemble cast of strange but likeable village residents.
The plot: the idea of a threatening, possibly predatory, semi-sentient magic Carnival with its own rules has a lot of potential. So does turning Morgan into an amateur sleuth.
The humour: some of the dialogue and the descriptions make me laugh and keep me engaged.
So what's getting in the way?
The point of view: Kim Watt normally writes in the Limited Third-Person. This story is told in the first person. That slows the story down, makes exposition more challenging and puts a lot of weight on the quality of the main character.
Morgan and Ruiner: Morgan and her brother, Ruiner, need to carry the story. Morgan doesn't have much going for her. She's nice enough in an everywoman sort of way, but nothing about her stands out. She has no particular abilities that she's aware of, although there are hints that she's a latent magic user. She's fairly passive except when it comes to rescuing her brother. There's not enough to Morgan to keep me engaged. Ruiner is not only hard to like, he's hard to care about. Him being at risk does not cause me any worry. Morgan would be better off without him.
The pace: Maybe it's the first-person point of view, but the pace seems very slow. Imp a third of the way through the book, yet the first body has only just hit, and Morgan has yet to do anything but bemoan her ignorance. I'm sure she's about to do something, but it all takes too long to keep me interested.
So, I'm setting 'One Smart Witch' and the Hollowbeck Paranormal Cosy Mystery series aside.
March 12, 2025
A sentient carnival whose players cannot escape and which often takes magical payment in visitors or even entire villages. Another zany mystery our heroine is up against, as she learns to become witchy.
If Kim M. Watt is involved in the writing, zany is the key word. Amelia Ash adds her own form of fun. Ms. Ash is a lover of frogs, familiars, and humans changing roles with animals.
Pure entertainment. Nothing to take seriously here. Excellent interludes from more intense writings.
If Kim M. Watt is involved in the writing, zany is the key word. Amelia Ash adds her own form of fun. Ms. Ash is a lover of frogs, familiars, and humans changing roles with animals.
Pure entertainment. Nothing to take seriously here. Excellent interludes from more intense writings.
August 1, 2024
"One Smart Witch (The Hollowbeck Paranormal Cozy Mysteries #2)" by Amelia Ash and Kim M. Watt is maybe two thirds, at best, cozy mystery and a third cozy fantasy. Almost half and half. It starts out cozy mystery. Then a little over half way in feels all fantasy no mystery and wraps up like "oh, yeah, this is supposed to be a mystery." The story still really sucks you in.
The circus/carnival comes to Hollowbeck, think a tv show Charmed or Supernatural style one. It lures you in and there are all kinds of acts and side shows that couldn't possibly be real, but they are. Morgan and the gang go to consult the Wizard about how to fix her brother. Then, her brother shows up mid act sitting on top of the body of the wizard. He doesn't know what happened but the carnival has its own laws and they kick everyone out while taking him prisoner.
Morgan returns in disguise and acts like she wants to join the carnival so she can investigate. She makes a few friends and gets some answers. Unfortunately, this leads to another death that she is now blamed for. The ringmaster finds out she has a powerful grimoire and takes Morgan prisoner. One thing leads to another, and if I put it here it'll be major spoilers, Morgan saves most everyone and we're back to the mystery of who doesn't want Morgan in Hollowbeck.
The circus/carnival comes to Hollowbeck, think a tv show Charmed or Supernatural style one. It lures you in and there are all kinds of acts and side shows that couldn't possibly be real, but they are. Morgan and the gang go to consult the Wizard about how to fix her brother. Then, her brother shows up mid act sitting on top of the body of the wizard. He doesn't know what happened but the carnival has its own laws and they kick everyone out while taking him prisoner.
Morgan returns in disguise and acts like she wants to join the carnival so she can investigate. She makes a few friends and gets some answers. Unfortunately, this leads to another death that she is now blamed for. The ringmaster finds out she has a powerful grimoire and takes Morgan prisoner. One thing leads to another, and if I put it here it'll be major spoilers, Morgan saves most everyone and we're back to the mystery of who doesn't want Morgan in Hollowbeck.
June 7, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of One Smart Witch in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Gist
One Smart Witch had the perfect chance to grow the story—maybe by exploring more of the magical world or shifting the focus to fresh character dynamics. Instead, it treads the same tired path as book one. The plot sticks to the exact same structure, centering—yet again—on the brother. It’s like no one else in this universe is considered worthy of a storyline.
The Details
And yes, spoiler: it’s all about him. Still. But not in an intriguing, morally grey antihero way. He’s smug, whiny, and completely self-absorbed. There’s no charm, no depth—just an endless stream of eye-roll-worthy scenes. Chapter after chapter devoted to his drama felt more like a slog than an adventure.
Honestly, if this is the direction the series insists on taking, they should’ve called it The Brother Chronicles and embraced it. Witches, familiars, magical townsfolk—there’s a whole vibrant world hinted at in the background. But these interesting threads are ignored in favor of one grating man-child. It’s a baffling choice.
Even the titular protagonist gets sidelined. She barely gets time to breathe before the plot reroutes around her in service of more brother-centric nonsense. The pacing slows to a crawl, dragged down by repetitive emotional detours that add nothing new. What could have been a whimsical, character-driven sequel ends up feeling stale.
The Verdict
There are still flashes of fun—some witty moments and clever magical details—but they’re too few to redeem the overall experience. I spent most of the book asking, “Why are we still talking about him?” Unless the third book gives other characters a chance to lead, I won’t be continuing. This witch, and this reader, deserve better.
August 11, 2024
I think it's important to preface my review by admitting that I did not read the first book in the series - I saw this book was available as a READ NOW on NetGalley and the cover drew me in and I immediately downloaded it. I will definitely go back and read the first book in the series, but I don't think that not having read the first book took away from my experience...!
This story really started off strong! This was easy to follow and doesn't have complicated/flowery writing - the world was the fictional town of Hollowbeck in London so the world was easily created. I enjoyed the characters that we meet throughout the book and our main character Morgan was quirky and interesting as she is trying to turn her brother Ruiner back into a human (he was turned into a cat in the previous book!).
The first half of the book was incredibly entertaining, but I found the second half wasn't as strong and felt like it dragged a bit. I did enjoy the conclusion and I would continue on with the series to see how everything wraps up. I loved the magical carnival setting.
I recommend this to lovers of witchy fiction looking for a good laugh.
Thank you so much to NetGalley for making this ARC available!
This story really started off strong! This was easy to follow and doesn't have complicated/flowery writing - the world was the fictional town of Hollowbeck in London so the world was easily created. I enjoyed the characters that we meet throughout the book and our main character Morgan was quirky and interesting as she is trying to turn her brother Ruiner back into a human (he was turned into a cat in the previous book!).
The first half of the book was incredibly entertaining, but I found the second half wasn't as strong and felt like it dragged a bit. I did enjoy the conclusion and I would continue on with the series to see how everything wraps up. I loved the magical carnival setting.
I recommend this to lovers of witchy fiction looking for a good laugh.
Thank you so much to NetGalley for making this ARC available!
August 29, 2024
Really enjoyed this book it gave me Sabrina the teenage witch vibes but make it adult I really really enjoyed reading this I got it read in 1 sitting. It has magic. Danger. A circus. A talking cat and more what's not to love ?
August 4, 2024
Princess Fuzzypants here: Morgan is still coming to grips with her new reality. Living in Hollowbeck, her brother turned into a cat and now the keeper of the grimoire, she has not yet accepted that she is, indeed, a witch. The arrival of a mysterious and sinister Carnival does not help matters. It seems the townspeople have accepted whatever doom the Carnival will bring to them and are neither willing nor able to defy them when Ruiner is accused of murdering the man who was trying to reverse the curse and return him to human shape.
There are a lot of strange and unusual creatures roaming around the Carnival and the magic that keeps unwanted visitors out does not stop Morgan. She is determined to rescue both Ruiner and her rat familiar, Josephine. Best laid plans of mice and men does not begin to describe the mess in which Morgan finds herself. She is caught and imprisoned and she is going to be burnt if she cannot figure a way out. The Carnival, a living breathing entity, needs to eat. And the grimoire could sate it for a very long time. All Morgan has to do is give it up the Ring Mistress. Morgan has no delusions and will not surrender even if it means her doom.
Very exciting and fast moving. I had to keep going to find out what was going to happen next. Will Morgan figure out what to do? And if she is this latently powerful witch, when will her powers kick in and to what degree? Can it save her, Ruiner, Jacqueline and the entire town? Is she really a smart witch or is she going to be fodder for the Carnival? I am not telling. You will just have to read it yourself. Five purrs and two paws up.
There are a lot of strange and unusual creatures roaming around the Carnival and the magic that keeps unwanted visitors out does not stop Morgan. She is determined to rescue both Ruiner and her rat familiar, Josephine. Best laid plans of mice and men does not begin to describe the mess in which Morgan finds herself. She is caught and imprisoned and she is going to be burnt if she cannot figure a way out. The Carnival, a living breathing entity, needs to eat. And the grimoire could sate it for a very long time. All Morgan has to do is give it up the Ring Mistress. Morgan has no delusions and will not surrender even if it means her doom.
Very exciting and fast moving. I had to keep going to find out what was going to happen next. Will Morgan figure out what to do? And if she is this latently powerful witch, when will her powers kick in and to what degree? Can it save her, Ruiner, Jacqueline and the entire town? Is she really a smart witch or is she going to be fodder for the Carnival? I am not telling. You will just have to read it yourself. Five purrs and two paws up.
August 2, 2024
Just as delightful and entertaining as the first book, but with much higher stakes this time!
Morgan has somewhat come to terms with her new status as town witch, but is still struggling to find a counter curse for her brother, Ruiner. When a travelling circus comes to town with an advertised wizard "Legendary Lionel", Morgan is keen to enlist his help. However, things don't go according to plan when Lionels body shows up during a circus open night and Ruiner and his witchy sister are the number one suspects.
The plot for this book was alot stronger than the first in my opinion.The whole idea of the travelling circus and how it was explained was fascinating. The creepy atmosphere of the big top was palpable. While at least half of the book takes place at the circus, it does mean the Hollowbeck regulars do not play as significant role (much to my dismay, as I've really come to love those weirdos). Instead, you are introduced to a new gang of quirky characters from the circus, some friends, some most definitely enemies.
I can't wait for the third installment, although it's going to be difficult to say Goodbye to this world and characters that I have grown so very fond of.
Big Thank-you to Netgalley and Sterling & Stone publishing for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review
Morgan has somewhat come to terms with her new status as town witch, but is still struggling to find a counter curse for her brother, Ruiner. When a travelling circus comes to town with an advertised wizard "Legendary Lionel", Morgan is keen to enlist his help. However, things don't go according to plan when Lionels body shows up during a circus open night and Ruiner and his witchy sister are the number one suspects.
The plot for this book was alot stronger than the first in my opinion.The whole idea of the travelling circus and how it was explained was fascinating. The creepy atmosphere of the big top was palpable. While at least half of the book takes place at the circus, it does mean the Hollowbeck regulars do not play as significant role (much to my dismay, as I've really come to love those weirdos). Instead, you are introduced to a new gang of quirky characters from the circus, some friends, some most definitely enemies.
I can't wait for the third installment, although it's going to be difficult to say Goodbye to this world and characters that I have grown so very fond of.
Big Thank-you to Netgalley and Sterling & Stone publishing for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review
September 1, 2024
One Smart Witch is the second book in this magical series set in Hollowbeck, England. Morgan is still trying to get the hang of her new title as resident witch and keeper of a very powerful grimoire. Ruiner is still a cat, but she is starting to feel more at home in the town. Unfortunately a killer carnival comes to town and cause havoc to everyone.
There's a wizard in the carnival and Ruiner gets the idea that he may be able to help with his cat problem, so Morgan agrees to go with him to investigate. Quickly things get out of hand and there's a dead body, captured suspects and Morgan feels helpless to solve any of it.
A new witch in town gives her some advice and she takes it, potentially against her better judgement, entering the world of the carnival in disguise.
She discovers that not only are her, her familiar and her brother's lives at stake, but also the entire town.
Morgan needs to tap into her natural power and use her gut and intelligence to conquer the carnival before it's too late. Luckily she has made some good friends along the way who are willing to help her.
Such a fun, fast read. I couldn't put it down. I love the characters and the relationships forming in this series. It's a refreshing take on a cozy series and I'm hooked on Hollowbeck. I can't wait to read book three and to see Morgan blossom even more.
There's a wizard in the carnival and Ruiner gets the idea that he may be able to help with his cat problem, so Morgan agrees to go with him to investigate. Quickly things get out of hand and there's a dead body, captured suspects and Morgan feels helpless to solve any of it.
A new witch in town gives her some advice and she takes it, potentially against her better judgement, entering the world of the carnival in disguise.
She discovers that not only are her, her familiar and her brother's lives at stake, but also the entire town.
Morgan needs to tap into her natural power and use her gut and intelligence to conquer the carnival before it's too late. Luckily she has made some good friends along the way who are willing to help her.
Such a fun, fast read. I couldn't put it down. I love the characters and the relationships forming in this series. It's a refreshing take on a cozy series and I'm hooked on Hollowbeck. I can't wait to read book three and to see Morgan blossom even more.
July 26, 2024
One Smart Witch is the second book in the Hollowbeck Paranormal Cosy Mystery series but I dove in and read it without having read book one. Fortunately, it is easy to pick up the situation, setting, and characters without knowledge of the first book, although book two does mention 'who-dunnit' in the first book so if you like to sleuth along with the characters and try to guess the culprit first you'll definately want to start with book one first.
Hollowbeck is the sort of quirky, cosy, magical town you'd expect to come out of the mind of Kim M Watt and the characters as eccletic, charming and possibly insane. While I'm sure book one does a lot of world-building to create a picture of Hollowbeck and it's residents, this book takes a step away from them to focus more on a carnival that has arrived outside town where (naturally) there is soon a dead body. When Morgan's brother (who has been turned into a cat by magic or magics unknown) is accused of the murder, she is determined to prove his innocence (or at least free him from the clutches of carnival justice).
Overall, it's a charming, comfortable adventure with lots of humour and heart.
I received an ARC and leave an honest review.
Hollowbeck is the sort of quirky, cosy, magical town you'd expect to come out of the mind of Kim M Watt and the characters as eccletic, charming and possibly insane. While I'm sure book one does a lot of world-building to create a picture of Hollowbeck and it's residents, this book takes a step away from them to focus more on a carnival that has arrived outside town where (naturally) there is soon a dead body. When Morgan's brother (who has been turned into a cat by magic or magics unknown) is accused of the murder, she is determined to prove his innocence (or at least free him from the clutches of carnival justice).
Overall, it's a charming, comfortable adventure with lots of humour and heart.
I received an ARC and leave an honest review.
August 28, 2024
“Step right up ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, children of all ages!”
The Master of Mayhem Circus comes to Hollowbeck and brings with it the promise of dark danger.
And of course the danger centers around Ruiner, who Morgan must, once again, risk everything to save.
The descriptive setting of this second book is still the strength of the series. You get such a strong image of the town and the circus. The town becomes home comfortable, it is home. The circus is a pervasive, unavoidable threat.
Morgan seems to simply react to events with little control of her life. She never has a plan when confronted with conflict and no one ever seems able to offer any help. She is always on her own little raft, floating in a sea of trouble.
Which is a shame, because I like her. The people in her life need to do a better job of taking care of her.
I feel the promise of strength and confidence in Morgan’s character. Something ominous is looming large in future books. I look forward to Morgan’s confidence in her abilities growing to meet the threat.
The Master of Mayhem Circus comes to Hollowbeck and brings with it the promise of dark danger.
And of course the danger centers around Ruiner, who Morgan must, once again, risk everything to save.
The descriptive setting of this second book is still the strength of the series. You get such a strong image of the town and the circus. The town becomes home comfortable, it is home. The circus is a pervasive, unavoidable threat.
Morgan seems to simply react to events with little control of her life. She never has a plan when confronted with conflict and no one ever seems able to offer any help. She is always on her own little raft, floating in a sea of trouble.
Which is a shame, because I like her. The people in her life need to do a better job of taking care of her.
I feel the promise of strength and confidence in Morgan’s character. Something ominous is looming large in future books. I look forward to Morgan’s confidence in her abilities growing to meet the threat.
February 27, 2025
I did not read book one of the Hollowbeck Paranormal series and I might have liked this story better with a little more background. When a traveling carnival arrives in Hollowbeck, it promises magic and mayhem. It’s also an opportunity for Morgan to find someone who can transform her brother, Ruiner, back into a human – he’s a little tired of being a talking cat, and she’s a little tired of cleaning his litter box.
Things look promising until the curtains rise on rehearsal night to reveal Ruiner sitting on the lifeless body of the wizard who promised to help him.
Ruiner swears he’s innocent, but that doesn’t stop the carnival boss from seizing him. He’ll be tried under carnival law. If found guilty, he faces certain death – and it’s not like it’s going to be a fair trial.
Morgan can’t lose her brother, but she can’t do anything from the outside, either. Her only hope is to infiltrate the carnival and find the real murderer before it’s too late.
But the magic carnival holds dangerous secrets of its own, and it’s soon clear Ruiner’s life isn’t only one at risk…
Things look promising until the curtains rise on rehearsal night to reveal Ruiner sitting on the lifeless body of the wizard who promised to help him.
Ruiner swears he’s innocent, but that doesn’t stop the carnival boss from seizing him. He’ll be tried under carnival law. If found guilty, he faces certain death – and it’s not like it’s going to be a fair trial.
Morgan can’t lose her brother, but she can’t do anything from the outside, either. Her only hope is to infiltrate the carnival and find the real murderer before it’s too late.
But the magic carnival holds dangerous secrets of its own, and it’s soon clear Ruiner’s life isn’t only one at risk…
August 17, 2024
Thank You To NetGalley, Amelia Ash, Kim M. Watts, and Sterling and Stone Publishing for letting me read this ARC copy in return for an Honest Review.
I couldn't wait to jump back into another Hollowbeck Mystery. Morgan is trying to get a handle on being a witch and running a magic shop. Meanwhile, Ruiner grows even more annoyed about being a cat. So he convinces Morgan to visit the “Legendary Lionel” at the Carnival that is coming to town. Of course, he's going to ignore all the warnings. What could go wrong? How about a dead body and Ruiner the Main Suspect? Did I mention the Carnival is the Judge, Jury, and possible executioner? No One in the town can help because of a deal with the carnival. So it's up to Morgan to go undercover and rescue her brother. Can she do it without getting caught, or will she wind up tied to the stake with him?
I loved this book and can't wait for the next one. I'm hoping we get more of the Hollowbeck Regulars in Book 3.
I couldn't wait to jump back into another Hollowbeck Mystery. Morgan is trying to get a handle on being a witch and running a magic shop. Meanwhile, Ruiner grows even more annoyed about being a cat. So he convinces Morgan to visit the “Legendary Lionel” at the Carnival that is coming to town. Of course, he's going to ignore all the warnings. What could go wrong? How about a dead body and Ruiner the Main Suspect? Did I mention the Carnival is the Judge, Jury, and possible executioner? No One in the town can help because of a deal with the carnival. So it's up to Morgan to go undercover and rescue her brother. Can she do it without getting caught, or will she wind up tied to the stake with him?
I loved this book and can't wait for the next one. I'm hoping we get more of the Hollowbeck Regulars in Book 3.
August 10, 2024
After being introduced to Kim M. Watt by a talking cat, it is no surprise that I enjoyed their latest take on a verbose kitty, One Smart Witch, written with Amelia Ash. There is a lot of suspense in this tale and while knowing the main characters, Morgan and Ruiner, are not likely to die, how they got out of their predicaments was not obvious. I read this second installment in the series right after the first and now have to wait for the third until the end of September. I can almost understand people who want to wait until all the books in a series are published before buying and beginning the series. Unfortunately, that is not how publishing works. Book sales determine if a series will be continued. In the last year, two series I liked a great deal were ended even though the authors had more planned. I've begun pre-ordering series books in the hopes it will keep the series alive.
August 26, 2024
This is the second book in the series and as a paranormal mystery, the first does a bit of world building. I wouldn’t recommend starting with the second like I did. It made sense but I had to do more work to figure out the rules and setup. Every paranormal is slightly different.
I love the creepy carnival trope. It’s my literary catnip. I like the idea of the carnival being its own magical entity, its own life essence with a separate set of rules. It was a take I haven’t seen before. The stakes were high, the tension was real.
Other aspects of this cozy didn’t quite work for me. I find the idea of a highly insulated town concerning. What about romantic prospects? What about kids and school? I end up in my head and out of the story. Overall, this was a 3 for me.
I love the creepy carnival trope. It’s my literary catnip. I like the idea of the carnival being its own magical entity, its own life essence with a separate set of rules. It was a take I haven’t seen before. The stakes were high, the tension was real.
Other aspects of this cozy didn’t quite work for me. I find the idea of a highly insulated town concerning. What about romantic prospects? What about kids and school? I end up in my head and out of the story. Overall, this was a 3 for me.
September 29, 2024
This is common review for One Smart Witch and Life's A Witch
I think that the best compliment for an ARC is to buy or pre-order the rest of the series and that's what happened after I read Witch Slap. I got a book because I liked the cat on the cover and got a very entertaining and well plotted series that makes me laugh and keeps turning pages.
These books are a mix of cozy fantasy and cozy mystery. There's a solid mystery, quirky characters, and a well developed and intriguing setting.
The authors did a good job in world building and I like the storytelling. The banters and the humour are a plus.
Go and read it, you're in for a treat.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
I think that the best compliment for an ARC is to buy or pre-order the rest of the series and that's what happened after I read Witch Slap. I got a book because I liked the cat on the cover and got a very entertaining and well plotted series that makes me laugh and keeps turning pages.
These books are a mix of cozy fantasy and cozy mystery. There's a solid mystery, quirky characters, and a well developed and intriguing setting.
The authors did a good job in world building and I like the storytelling. The banters and the humour are a plus.
Go and read it, you're in for a treat.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
July 31, 2024
This is slowly becoming one of my fav paranormal series.
With weird characters and town, and the "witch" so lost in it, the authors really paint a picture.
As with the first book, this one is also very well written with a great flow. The way the authors kept pulling me back to the story was astounding, every time I felt that Morgan was winning, she didn't, and she kept going and I was glad to see a little more courage in Morgan, but I think it's time she accepts that she is a witch. Ruiner's character also showed growth by the end of the book and I hope he doesn't go back to his old self anytime soon.
I received an advance copy of the book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
With weird characters and town, and the "witch" so lost in it, the authors really paint a picture.
As with the first book, this one is also very well written with a great flow. The way the authors kept pulling me back to the story was astounding, every time I felt that Morgan was winning, she didn't, and she kept going and I was glad to see a little more courage in Morgan, but I think it's time she accepts that she is a witch. Ruiner's character also showed growth by the end of the book and I hope he doesn't go back to his old self anytime soon.
I received an advance copy of the book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 2, 2024
They're Back!
Morgan and Ruiner are back in this second book in the magical town of Hollowbeck! Ruiner is still a cat and Morgan continues to try to work with the magical and frightening grimoire she inherited. Even with her rat familiar Jacqueline it's slow going. A carnival comes to town and Ruiner wants to rush off to see if an advertised wizard can change him back from being a cat. What could go wrong, right?!?
I really liked how the town and all of the characters are becoming more real and cohesive and finally Ruiner shows some caring for his sister.
I'm hooked! When does the next book come out? My finger is poised and waiting for the pre-order button to appear😀
Morgan and Ruiner are back in this second book in the magical town of Hollowbeck! Ruiner is still a cat and Morgan continues to try to work with the magical and frightening grimoire she inherited. Even with her rat familiar Jacqueline it's slow going. A carnival comes to town and Ruiner wants to rush off to see if an advertised wizard can change him back from being a cat. What could go wrong, right?!?
I really liked how the town and all of the characters are becoming more real and cohesive and finally Ruiner shows some caring for his sister.
I'm hooked! When does the next book come out? My finger is poised and waiting for the pre-order button to appear😀
August 13, 2024
The circus comes to Hollowbeck and Ruiner talks Morgan into taking him to see a wizard there. Hoping to be turned back to human, neither was expecting to become suspects in the murder of said wizard. Can Morgan and Ruiner find a way to circumvent the laws of the Circus will just railroad them for something they didn’t do?
Another cute entry in the series. You would think of talking cat and a witch would be a cutie, cute, Frou Frou cozy but it’s so much more than that! The dynamics between brother and sister really make this a series that starts at from other paranormal based cozy mysteries. I really enjoy it.
Another cute entry in the series. You would think of talking cat and a witch would be a cutie, cute, Frou Frou cozy but it’s so much more than that! The dynamics between brother and sister really make this a series that starts at from other paranormal based cozy mysteries. I really enjoy it.
August 8, 2025
A spooky carnival is coming to town, and the citizens who understand are wary.
Then there's Morgan and her cat brother Ruiner. Ruiner believes Lionel can help reverse his transformation and as always, Morgan jumps in to help her brother.
While I enjoyed the second installment of the series, I missed getting to know more about the magic of Hollowbeck. The magic system is one I still don't understand and suspect it will take the third book to get more insight.
Thank you NetGalley and Sterling & Stone Publishing for this ARC. When I finish the series, I will post a review covering all the books.
Then there's Morgan and her cat brother Ruiner. Ruiner believes Lionel can help reverse his transformation and as always, Morgan jumps in to help her brother.
While I enjoyed the second installment of the series, I missed getting to know more about the magic of Hollowbeck. The magic system is one I still don't understand and suspect it will take the third book to get more insight.
Thank you NetGalley and Sterling & Stone Publishing for this ARC. When I finish the series, I will post a review covering all the books.
November 19, 2024
Lots of fun, a few scares, but…
Another dose of witch-lit, great characters, storyline that gallops along effortlessly… but I’m still confused as to why there’s so many American terms in the book - I had to look up ‘bleacher’ as I didn’t know it, and others I can’t mention as they’re spoilers. I know one author is a New Zealander (but they don’t use Americanisms) and I assumed the other is British - but even if she’s not, you don’t set a book in a quintessential British village and then pepper it with American terms. I’m almost reluctant to read the others.
Another dose of witch-lit, great characters, storyline that gallops along effortlessly… but I’m still confused as to why there’s so many American terms in the book - I had to look up ‘bleacher’ as I didn’t know it, and others I can’t mention as they’re spoilers. I know one author is a New Zealander (but they don’t use Americanisms) and I assumed the other is British - but even if she’s not, you don’t set a book in a quintessential British village and then pepper it with American terms. I’m almost reluctant to read the others.
August 7, 2024
Carnival of Chaos.
Morgan is sort of getting used to her new life as a witch.
Then poster's start appearing around town, announcing the Carnival will be arriving, soon.
This seems to lead people into acts of violence or, in Petunia's case, hiding at home with her frogs!
Morgan and Ruiner go to see if a wizard can help him change back?
From there things rapidly unfold with Ruiner caught Sat on the dead wizard!!!!
So loving this new series 😁😁😁
Morgan is sort of getting used to her new life as a witch.
Then poster's start appearing around town, announcing the Carnival will be arriving, soon.
This seems to lead people into acts of violence or, in Petunia's case, hiding at home with her frogs!
Morgan and Ruiner go to see if a wizard can help him change back?
From there things rapidly unfold with Ruiner caught Sat on the dead wizard!!!!
So loving this new series 😁😁😁
August 8, 2024
This was a cute paranormal cozy fantasy/mystery. I was unaware when I began this book, that it is the second installment of a series. I enjoyed this story enough to double back and read book 1.
The interaction between Morgan and Ruiner, her cursed cat brother is hilarious!
It gives EUREKA vibes but with a witchy feel.
Quick, cozy read.
Thank you Netgalley and Sterling & Stone Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The interaction between Morgan and Ruiner, her cursed cat brother is hilarious!
It gives EUREKA vibes but with a witchy feel.
Quick, cozy read.
Thank you Netgalley and Sterling & Stone Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 28, 2024
Second book in the Hollowbeck series which expands on the adventures of a somewhat unwilling witch and her unpleasant brother who has turned into a cat. Hollowbeck is wonderful as it has no mobile phones, GPS, internet so the inhabitants have to be self-reliant. This book covers a visit from a circus which turns out to be totally terrifying and macabre. An excellent read and takes one into a less cosy adventure.
August 3, 2024
Ruiner is in trouble again and counts on his sister Morgan to help him. Oh, and he’s still a cat. Another thing to be solved. This Hollowbeck series is lovely. I really enjoyed the interaction between the siblings. If you like witchy things then you’ll like the series.
I received a review copy for free via Netgalley and I’m leaving a voluntary and honest review.
I received a review copy for free via Netgalley and I’m leaving a voluntary and honest review.
August 1, 2024
Terrific story!
A very satisfying continuation of the Witch Slap story, with lots of plot twists that kept me reading much longer and later than I should have. The authors do a fabulous job of mixing suspense with spooky legends. I am eagerly awaiting the next installment!
A very satisfying continuation of the Witch Slap story, with lots of plot twists that kept me reading much longer and later than I should have. The authors do a fabulous job of mixing suspense with spooky legends. I am eagerly awaiting the next installment!
August 6, 2024
One Smart Witch
Book 2, by Amelia Ash and Kim M. Watt. I read this book because I like one of authors. Unfortunately, there's a character I dislike so much I might not be able to read anymore of the series
Book 2, by Amelia Ash and Kim M. Watt. I read this book because I like one of authors. Unfortunately, there's a character I dislike so much I might not be able to read anymore of the series
August 28, 2024
Excellent second book in the Hollowbeck series, even more fun than the first! The only downside to this series is that I have to be alone when I read it - it makes me laugh out loud a lot and that is not always appreciated by my wife!
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
January 30, 2025
I didn't realize this book was the second in the series. I kept getting the characters confused. Best to read the books in order to fully understand the back stories. The premise sounded right up my alley but I'm thinking I'm not in the right headspace for this book right now.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews