Mystic Lies

by Stephanie Damore

*****A crossover from An Enchanted Waters Mystery Series!*****

Detective Iona Vale isn't your average witch—she's a Celeste Witch, drawing her power from the stars and moon. But her peaceful life in the picturesque Florida Keys takes a sharp turn when her ex-fiancé, demigod Kai Marinos, returns to town.

Iona and Kai, both working for the Paranormal Apprehension and Detention Agency (PADA), soon find themselves embroiled in a case that defies logic and challenges their magical abilities. With Spark, Iona's feisty star sidekick, by their side, they delve into a world of supernatural suspects, enchanted evidence, and magical artifacts.

Their investigation leads them to uncover secrets and lies that run deep in Coconut Bay, including a powerful and dangerous Neptune's Pearl. As they piece together clues and confront old wounds, Iona and Kai must race against time to prevent the pearl from falling into the wrong hands and unleashing catastrophic consequences.

Will Iona and Kai's combined magical prowess be enough to solve the murder and secure the pearl? Or will their unresolved past and the perilous present tear them apart once more? Join PADA's newest dynamic duo as they unravel the mysteries of midlife magic in this spellbinding paranormal cozy mystery.

204 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 25, 2024

About the author

I'm a mystery author with a soft spot for romance and humor, too. I love all things girlie with a dollop of danger, have a strong affinity for the color pink (especially in diamonds and champagne), and, not to brag, but chocolate and I are in a pretty serious relationship.

My books are fun and flirty, and feature smart and sassy sleuths. If you love books with a dash of spice and twist of whodunit, you're going to love my work!

Reviews

[Rebecca Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful beginning to a new series by author Stephanie Damore.
This is the first book I have read of hers but it won't be my last.
Iona and Kai are wonderful characters. Can't wait to read book two...
I loved reading this book and highly recommend...

[Frances · Rating 2 out of 5]

The new dynamic duo fell flat fast.

With a celestial witch, a demi-god, a gnome, and a DAMN star, I thought this book was going to be home run. 

Unfortunately I was dead wrong.

The characters, amazingly, are one dimensional and dull, I'm not sure how that is even possible.

Kai and Iona's relationship is boring, lackluster, and had little substance to it.

Now the plot... What plot? I figured out the killer long before Iona and Kai did, and I saw the ending coming from the first page.

The storyline and plot were flimsy and beyond generic, it felt very insert-mystery-info-here, create a twist, now add an obvious red herring, and there you have it Mystic Lies.

I absolutely LOVE all the versions of the PADA books and was really excited to pick up the new iteration, to say the least; my heart is crushed writing this review. 

Well, here's hoping the next one is better.

[Chad Barrus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iona Vale is a detective with the paranormal agency in the Florida Keys whose life just got upended when her ex fiancé shows up as her new partner on a case
involving a missing ancient magical artifact! Now she has to juggle his sudden disappearance so long ago besides trying to find this missing artifact and the murder of a marine scientist who probably found it.
As Iona and her partner Kai look into the life of the deceased scientist, they uncover three potential suspects immediately, but could there be someone else they could be missing?

This is an intriguing page turner involving a detective who is also a witch in this paranormal town where most everyone there is a paranormal of some sort! Few are normal or non magicals. Thus most everyone
you meet is more than you can outwardly see.

With so many secrets to hide in this town, using magic may be the only way to solve this case! As things heat up new suspects emerge but questions still remain unanswered.

I really enjoyed this story and heartily recommend it as one I think you’ll enjoy reading as well! In fact, it’s the first book in a new series and I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series entitled, Mystic
Tides, and I think you’ll be wanting to read it as well when you finish this book!

[Merry Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

As soon as I started this first book by a really great author, I was hooked! The characters were so well developed. I loved Iona, a celeste witch and her sidekick, Star who is snarky and very protective of Iona, Iona's best friend, Violet, even Iona's ex-fiance, Kai Marinos and Knotly. And there are some really good sub-characters. Iona is a detective for the Paranormal Apprehension and Detention Agency (PADA) keeping Crystal Cove safe. Kai also works for PADA and Iona now has to work a very big case with him. Why did he walk out on her? She still harbors a lot of anger and has to keep it controlled so they can work the case. But her sarcastic comments she makes to Kai are great! The case began when Simon, a loner marine biologist, not only did he want more restrictions on fishing, but was also looking for an artifact that could change the world and was murdered. This artifact is the Neptune Pearl that could control the weather. The case gets so convoluted and confusing for the two they delve into things that could put them in danger as well. This is a fantastic first book in the Isle of Enchantment series and I look forward to many more. I received and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

[James Copeland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful Start

Ok, I've read all of our author's books and have never been disappointed. This was no exception.
Author Jenna James created this world and Stephanie and her coauthor one of the series. This is Stephanie's first solo work in this world and she captures the mystery and action extremely well.
This series is set in the Florida Keys instead of the Bermuda Triangle, but there's no deviation from the joy of the series.
Our MC is a Celeste witch, aka a moon witch. She's not conventionally powerful as a whole, but for her job, sensing emotions is a plus. Her companion is a sentient star and is an utter delight. Her peers and her lone family member are just as wonderful.
She is getting assigned a new partner and while waiting, her ex shows up. Drama central here. He's looking for a powerful artifact and a soon to happen murder seems to involve it, so they work together. Its wonderfully chaotic at times and they have some angst and feels.
The mystery itself is very captivating and well thought out with several twists and turns. Will they find the killer or will the killer find them? Not gonna tell you, you need to read it.
It's a wonderful and captivating read and I highly recommend it.

[Margery · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book that gripped me from the first chapter. I stayed up all night because I could not put it down! Iona is a PADA detective responsible for keeping Crystal Cove safe. After an interesting lunch with her best friend, where one minute she was wallowing over a failed date because she is a forensic specialist, the next second a new to town scientist enters the cafe. He automatically sits at Violets table and have a lunch together. Sounds fishy, yes? Well, he is found murdered on his boat and the area is surrounded with the residue of magic. To add to Ionas' investigation, an unwelcomed surprise appearance of the ex fiance in her office. He has been sent by PADA to help, not so much for the murder, but to find a dangerous artifact that could destroy the world. She has to work with him because of his own powers. He is a Demi God, son of Posidon and can investigate where she cannot venture. The artifact is Neptune's Pearl. Did the Dead scientist find the pearl and was killed for it? With many suspects hiding the truth, the spins they weave will take all Iona and Kai have to sort the truth. Another wonderful book by Ms. Damore!

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

Mystic Lies is the first book in the new Isle of Enchantment Series by Stephanie Damore.

This is a crossover series from the Enchanted Waters series.

The story is set in the world created by Jenna St. James This is a stand-alone book.

I absolutely LOVED this book. We meet Detective Iona Vale who is a Celeste Witch.

This is a unique type of witch, which I really enjoyed how she gets her powers from the stars and moon.

Her sidekick, Spark, is an actual star, who I absolutely LOVED.

When her ex-fiancé, a sexy demigod Kai returns to the Coconut Bay, which is in the beautiful Florida Keys.

They end up working together as partners on a mystery involving a very dangerous artifact.

There are several suspects, and a few red herrings.

I love the characters, the well described setting and the perfectly paced mystery.

I can't wait for more books in this great series!!!!

[Monica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful new paranormal cozy mystery series by Stephanie Damore, set in a fantasy world created by Jenna St James and expanded on in a joint series by both ladies. Each series is set in a different location in the same fantasy world which gives the opportunities for crossovers by all the characters.

Set in the Florida Keys, vivid descriptions make you feel like you’re right there. The exceptional evening scenes where Iona connects with the moon bring the reader a sense of peace. Wonderful learning about these new characters. Great mystery with plenty of twists kept me guessing. I read in one sitting as I was totally hooked.

A very magical experience. I’m really looking forward to the next book in this series.

[Javon50 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Iona Vales, a celestial witch who gets her powers from the night sky has a cute sidekick, a feisty star named Spark. Working for the Paranormal Apprehension and Detention Agency, (PADA) is exciting and exhausting and when she receives a call regarding the death at the marina, the last person she expects to see is her ex who has been asked to partner with her on this case. She soon discovers that the case involves finding a powerful artifact, the dangerous Neptune’s Pearl which can control all oceanic weather. Will she and ex Kai find the artifact before catastrophe strikes. This new and exciting storyline kept me engaged until the very last page. I can hardly wait for Book 2. This is my honest, voluntary review of an advanced reader copy of this book.

[Jeanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mystic Lies is book #1 in the Isle of Enchantment Mystery series by Stephanie Damore.

This is an entertaining new paranormal cozy series. Iona is a Celeste witch with Spark, a star, as her sidekick. Kai, a former love interest, shows up searching for an artifact. They have to work together to solve a murder and keep the artifact out of the wrong hands. The interaction between the characters was the best part for me. The mystery had twists that kept me guessing until the reveal. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more of this series.

I received a free copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Debi Paglia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What an awesome first in a new series! This is the first that I have read Ms. Damore’s work. I am thrilled to have found her! I couldn’t put it down! Stayed up way too late last night! 😆 The setting of the Florida Keys is perfect - laid back, but intense. I just love the character of Iona. She’s a little older, so knows herself more. She’s confident (mostly), intelligent, caring, professional. The storylines are definitely attention-keeping! And they all come together with a great surprise ending! Can’t wait for the next one, but in the meantime, I’m going to check out her other books!

[Chere Gruver · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to live in Coconut Bay!

The world that Stephanie Damore created in Coconut Bay is filled with all kinds of magical creatures, including our main character, Iona Vale, a Celeste Witch, along with her little sidekick Spark. Iona works for law enforcement and when she gets called to a murder, she finds none other than her ex-fiancé, Kai Marinos there, also assigned to work the case. I really enjoyed this story. The action is fast paced, all the characters are wonderful—I find myself especially fond of Violet, Iona’s best friend. This is one author whose work I can easily recommend.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first novel I've read by this author and I'm really pleased that I've found Stephanie as it was a fabulous read and a great start to a series. I love Iona, she's feisty but good at what she does, she, unfortunately, has to work with her ex on this mystery so has lots to contend with, not least her companion, the snarky star, Spark. The other characters are relatable too. The story is great and well thought out. If you love a good mystery and paranormal activity too you'll love this book, give it a go, you won't be disappointed.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I quite enjoyed this paranormal cozy. The blend of mystery and myths along with magic and police procedural was wonderfully done. The tension with Iona and Kai was palpable and it gave the story extra dimension. I enjoyed the quirky cast that made up the town. Funny and unique each and everyone added something special to the overall story. The mystery was well written and kept me guessing. I very much look forward to more of these characters and this series!
I received an ARC from the author this is my honest review.

[Kimberly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute

This series is a crossover from Isla and Jace's story. Kai is Jace's immortal cousin. He's sent to the Florida Keys to retrieve a lost artifact and he's partnered with his ex-fiancee that he walked away from 15 years ago with only a letter.

Iona has never gotten over the hurt that Kai inflicted. He left her a vague letter saying that he had to go. No reason, nothing. She never got her closure. Now Kai is back acting like nothing happened between them.

Now they have a murder linking to the Neptune Pearl that he's been searching for, but who's the killer?

[John A. Sillasen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Cute Mystery where Enchantment lies next to Mortal Beings

Think Cinderella Meets Garden Gnomes & you've got the basis for this story. A detective, with both Moon and star powers, jilted by a descendant of Poseidon are put together on a case to retrieve an artifact which has power over the sea and weather, you start to get the idea of how this story is going to progress. It does have moments of special of intrigue. Then when paragraphs are repeated you know the proofreading wasn't as special as the walking talking Gnome with starched shirts and creased trousers.

[Alison Ramsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a delightful paranormal romantic suspense set a beautifully tranquil setting. The author does a great job of getting the reader to feel the celestial power that Iona channels. Forced to work with her former fiance Kai to solve a murder and locate the artefact Kai has been tasked to locate, the two PADA agents find loads of clues and unexpected surprises. Really enjoyable book and looking forward to reading more about Iona and Kai in the future.

[G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iona was hoping for a new colleague when someone from her past shows up and a new case.
Super fun mystery. The characters all have their special abilities and character traits. And who can resist a little star with a big attitude. The storyline was fast paced with lots of surprises. A super fun book to read.

I received a free copy of this book from the author. I am leaving a voluntary and honest review.

[Jennifer Wertz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mystic Lies is a fantastic paranormal cozy mystery. I absolutely loved this book. It is fun and entertaining. The characters are interesting and well developed. The magical powers they have are unique and interesting. The plot is complex with many twists and surprises to keep you guessing until the very end. I highly recommend this book and can't wait for more in the series.

This book is a new series in a crossover from Jenna St James' books. It can be read as a standalone.

[Robin]

I received an advanced reader copy of the book. It wasn’t until chapter 3 we find out the name of the main character. The first few chapters there are a too many characters with unusual names. I wished there was more of an introduction to the characters. I almost gave up reading. Once more detail was given and you could figure out the characters, the story got better. It kept giving more clues on who the killer was. And expanding on the characters.

[Angie R Geissman · Rating 4 out of 5]

New series. This is a paranormal cozy. Iona is a detective working with paranormal apprehension department. Her ex fiancé shows up as he is working on a case trying to find an artifact which brings him back into town. A murder happens and she must put her feelings aside and work on solving the case along side her ex. The characters are interesting and it was an easy read. Really kept you guessing with all the suspects and twists

[Michelle Webb · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great new book in a new series that I really enjoyed. Detective Iona Vale is a Celeste Witch which draws her powers from the stars and the moon. Iona lives in the Florida Keys but when her ex-fiancé, a demigod Kai returns to town it turns Iona's life upside down. Things escalate quickly and it becomes a race against time to see if they can rescue the pearl and solve the mystery. A must read.

[JoAn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A new cozy mystery series by Stephanie Damore takes readers to the Florida Keys and the paranormal communities. This is a spin-off series from the Enchanted Waters series written by Ms. Damore and Jenna St. James. The characters are likable. The mystery has a few twists and turns, few suspects that all had motive for wanting the ancient artifact and the reveal was not only surprising but dramatic. A good beginning to a new series.

[Phthon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun mystery! I love the characters, Iona, Kai, and Spark! I love the idea of paranormal law enforcement…makes things interesting. I like that so many types of paranormal creatures intermingle. There is no problem with different types getting married. It is a marvelous concept. This was fun to read and I look forward to reading more!

[Kathy Brenzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iona and her ex Kai both worked for the Paranormal Apprehension and Detention Agency. Kai had left town years before, but had returned to help with the last case which involved murder and a power grab. They had to learn to work together for the sake of the case. If they didn't, the world as they knew it, may not survive.

[Larry · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. The characters are interesting, the setting is romantic to an extent, and the story line is intriguing. I liked the character lineup, including the tiny star, and the varied shifters were interesting. The plot is easily followed, and the premise is finding a mythical artifact and putting it in safe keeping. I do recommend this book.

[Bernadette Cinkoske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mystic Lies is an enchanting, paranormal, cozy mystery. I was drawn into the book from the first page and could not put it down. A PADA detective, Iona, must work with a demigod, her ex fiance, Kai, to solve the murder, keep Coconut Bay safe and find a dangerous artifact. Can they work together? Will they get a second chance at love? There are many suspects, some twists and more t o keep the reader guessing. I am looking forward to book two!

[Jodi Sweet · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the beginning it was a little hard for me to get into the story. I’m used to the cozies that have people getting involved in the investigations that shouldn’t be. This was a flip for me. But, once I got into it, I was hooked! Iona is such a strong character. Her sidekick, a star named Spark, is the perfect upbeat character with an amazing sense of humor. I just loved it!

[Juanita E. Arp · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book, it is a fantastic book to read, full of adventure, intrigue, and the mystery. I can't wait to read more from this author. I received this book as a Free ARC copy to read and I voluntarily leave this review.

[Amanda Jane · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nothing challenging...

... another cozy mystery all a bit par for the course... relatively quick, easy read with rather obvious results... wish there was more detail and scene setting .. a fully drawn background would be lovely as would more detailed characters