What do you think?
Rate this book
Magical Mystery Book Club #9
Carousels and Characters
This book club is whooshed right into the pages of a cozy mystery. The quirky group of brave members must solve the mystery and reach The End to get out of the book.
In each book of the series, they travel to a different world and meet paranormal characters. It could be shifters, fairies, genies, ghosts, or anything else! It’s so much fun, you’ll wish for a book club like this!
In this book journey, they travel to an enchanted amusement theme park. It’s a magical, wonderful place, but something is disturbing the park. Robberies are occurring from every ride. It began with little things, like props or costumes, but now the stakes are rising.
The book club has entered this story so that they can find out who is behind the thefts and stop the problem. Hopefully, they can do it before chaos strikes the entire theme park and closes it down, leaving hundreds of workers jobless and thousands of park visitors disappointed.
"You can’t enough of this series! It will blow you away!"
… Cozy Mystery Book Reviews
“I read 150+ cozy mysteries every year - this is by far the most unique storyline I've read.”
… Goodreads
“One of my go-to series. The quality and enjoyment are guaranteed.”
… All and Any Books
“I adore this series, and it just keeps getting better with each book!”
… Fiction Vixen
“The most original and unique cozy mystery series that I have ever read. Fantastic!”
… BookBub
“I guarantee you will LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it !!!!”
… Goodreads
In each book of the series, they travel to a different world and meet paranormal characters. It could be shifters, fairies, genies, ghosts, or anything else! It’s so much fun, you’ll wish for a book club like this!
In this book journey, they travel to an enchanted amusement theme park. It’s a magical, wonderful place, but something is disturbing the park. Robberies are occurring from every ride. It began with little things, like props or costumes, but now the stakes are rising.
The book club has entered this story so that they can find out who is behind the thefts and stop the problem. Hopefully, they can do it before chaos strikes the entire theme park and closes it down, leaving hundreds of workers jobless and thousands of park visitors disappointed.
"You can’t enough of this series! It will blow you away!"
… Cozy Mystery Book Reviews
“I read 150+ cozy mysteries every year - this is by far the most unique storyline I've read.”
… Goodreads
“One of my go-to series. The quality and enjoyment are guaranteed.”
… All and Any Books
“I adore this series, and it just keeps getting better with each book!”
… Fiction Vixen
“The most original and unique cozy mystery series that I have ever read. Fantastic!”
… BookBub
“I guarantee you will LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it !!!!”
… Goodreads
269 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 15, 2025
About the author
Elizabeth Pantley
66 books458 followersElizabeth Pantley is a bestselling author of fiction and non-fiction books. She writes two well-loved cozy mystery series: The Magical Mystery Book Club, and the Destiny Falls Mystery and Magic series. She has also written the international bestselling No-Cry Solution parenting book series that is available in over twenty languages.
Elizabeth lives in the majestic Pacific Northwest and spends winters in the sunny desert of Arizona. While neither location is home to any paranormal beings (that she knows of) the vastly different yet equally lovely locations are the inspiration for the settings in many of her books.
Sign up for her newsletter to get a free novella at www.elizabethpantleyauthor.com
Elizabeth lives in the majestic Pacific Northwest and spends winters in the sunny desert of Arizona. While neither location is home to any paranormal beings (that she knows of) the vastly different yet equally lovely locations are the inspiration for the settings in many of her books.
Sign up for her newsletter to get a free novella at www.elizabethpantleyauthor.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
January 15, 2025
It's time for the book club to pick their new book. Paige finds a cozy mystery that takes place in an amusement park, which reminds her of the amusement parks she and her aunt visited. Having convinced the rest of the book club to pick this book, the club begins their next adventure.
I love this series; each new book becomes my new favorite in the series.
This book was so much fun to read. The setting of the amusement park and the animals was, well, amusing. The quirky characters are entertaining, it's hard to pick a favorite character as each one has their standout moments. The mystery isn't a murder investigation in this book but is no less of a whodunit. The story moves at a quick pace with still plenty of twists and turns. This isn't your typical book club cozy or paranormal cozy, and the combination of the two is magical.
All thoughts and opinions are mine alone.
I love this series; each new book becomes my new favorite in the series.
This book was so much fun to read. The setting of the amusement park and the animals was, well, amusing. The quirky characters are entertaining, it's hard to pick a favorite character as each one has their standout moments. The mystery isn't a murder investigation in this book but is no less of a whodunit. The story moves at a quick pace with still plenty of twists and turns. This isn't your typical book club cozy or paranormal cozy, and the combination of the two is magical.
All thoughts and opinions are mine alone.
January 7, 2025
CAROUSELS AND CHARACTERS by Elizabeth Pantley
The Ninth Magical Mystery Book Club Mystery
Paige Erickson is just getting used to the fact that her best friend, who also happens to be her aunt, is gone. Not gone for good, but gone just the same After an unexpected visit from her mom, who is her usual unhappy unaccepting self, Paige is more than ready for the Snapdragon Book Club's next adventure. Remembering happier times of her youth Paige picks a mystery set in a theme park. When the gang arrives Forrest is ready for the rides and Zell the food while everyone finds the animal themed park extraordinarily realistic. They soon realize their mission: to discover why things are disappearing-before the characters themselves cease to exist!
CAROUSELS AND CHARACTERS has the book club going to a very special theme park. Although I'm not one for wild rides myself, it was enjoyable seeing the various attractions here, and seeing some characters let their hair down and embrace some thrills. Me, I'll stick to the carousel. The mystery here is unique. There are no dead bodies, but pranks, some more dangerous and upsetting than others, that could lead to the end of the park and the creatures who live there as well. The ninth outing of the Snapdragon Book Club is set at a slower pace with few clues and an almost deus ex machina ending. Despite this, spending time with the gang is always enjoyable.
It's interesting to see the dynamics change with Glo gone and Cosmo now a part of the group. Paige no longer has another stable influence, nor her confidante. There may be an interesting development between her and Atticus. I'm not sure that would a good thing, but it would be nice for her to have someone to talk with about more serious subjects.
A theme park with unusual characters makes CAROUSELS AND CHARACTERS an entertaining adventure.
The Ninth Magical Mystery Book Club Mystery
Paige Erickson is just getting used to the fact that her best friend, who also happens to be her aunt, is gone. Not gone for good, but gone just the same After an unexpected visit from her mom, who is her usual unhappy unaccepting self, Paige is more than ready for the Snapdragon Book Club's next adventure. Remembering happier times of her youth Paige picks a mystery set in a theme park. When the gang arrives Forrest is ready for the rides and Zell the food while everyone finds the animal themed park extraordinarily realistic. They soon realize their mission: to discover why things are disappearing-before the characters themselves cease to exist!
CAROUSELS AND CHARACTERS has the book club going to a very special theme park. Although I'm not one for wild rides myself, it was enjoyable seeing the various attractions here, and seeing some characters let their hair down and embrace some thrills. Me, I'll stick to the carousel. The mystery here is unique. There are no dead bodies, but pranks, some more dangerous and upsetting than others, that could lead to the end of the park and the creatures who live there as well. The ninth outing of the Snapdragon Book Club is set at a slower pace with few clues and an almost deus ex machina ending. Despite this, spending time with the gang is always enjoyable.
It's interesting to see the dynamics change with Glo gone and Cosmo now a part of the group. Paige no longer has another stable influence, nor her confidante. There may be an interesting development between her and Atticus. I'm not sure that would a good thing, but it would be nice for her to have someone to talk with about more serious subjects.
A theme park with unusual characters makes CAROUSELS AND CHARACTERS an entertaining adventure.
January 6, 2025
What I love about cozy mysteries is the different communities and settings that are created. What sets this series apart is that while the core community stays the same, the setting is new every time, so you get a glimpse of so many different worlds with the same fun characters. This was the most creative and fantastical ones I have come across so far and I long to visit this amusement park. This was such an amazingly and well thought out concept and I learned a few things about different animals, too. The mystery was interesting and used this world to its best advantage. This is definitely my favorite of the series so far and I can’t wait to read more!
I received a copy from the author for an honest review.
I received a copy from the author for an honest review.
December 22, 2024
Even though this is the ninth book in the series, you can read it as a standalone. The author is skilled at explaining the events of the previous books without detracting from the new book’s storyline. The plot combines elements of science fiction and magic creating quite an experience; think, Disneyland on steroids. The characters are consistently intriguing, and the author’s writing style draws readers into the book, just as her characters have been drawn into their own worlds.
Please note that this review is entirely voluntary, and all opinions expressed are my own.
Please note that this review is entirely voluntary, and all opinions expressed are my own.
February 13, 2025
This is such an engaging series. Lively characters that jump off the page and a terrific, unique premise. This latest rollicking adventure grabs you and takes you on a wondrous journey.
You will want to dive right in!
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
You will want to dive right in!
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
August 24, 2025
"Carousels and Characters (Magical Mystery Book Club #9)" by Elizabeth Pantley is an extra cozy installment to this paranormal cozy mystery series. The book club gets to visit an amusement park where things aren't entirely as they seem. The workers of the amusement park need help figuring out some robberies.
There are lots of interesting new characters that are part of the book the club jumps into. I had my eye on a couple suspects in particular. I was even thinking it could be a certain family member as a surprise twist. In the end I was surprised by who the culprit ended up being. It made sense though.
There are lots of interesting new characters that are part of the book the club jumps into. I had my eye on a couple suspects in particular. I was even thinking it could be a certain family member as a surprise twist. In the end I was surprised by who the culprit ended up being. It made sense though.
January 17, 2025
Readers cannot help but fall in love with the Magical Mystery Book Club Mystery series by Elizabeth Pantley. This is a very creative series and as you get further into the books, the creativity will be off the charts .... but you will approve !!!
Quick summary .... Main character Paige inherits the SnapDragon Inn and in the basement there is a magical library. Paige organizes a group of electic people to be a part of the book club. Every few months they gather with food and drinks and venture down to the basement where they each pick a book that they vote on. Once they have picked a book someone begins reading the first page out loud. Once they get a few paragraphs into the story, the room fills with fog and when it clears, they are in the book !! The Inn travels with them which makes it a nice comfort. In order to leave the book, they have to solve the case and write The End on the board and they will be whisked back home. Two things regarding the book journey are that regardless of how long they are "stuck" in the book, time stands still and when they return, no time has been lost. And the other things, which is probably the best thing, is that they can eat whatever they want and they won't gain weight and if you are familiar with this group, they LOVE to eat !!!
Okay now onto Carousels and Characters .... This is the ninth book in the series and if you have been reading them, you already know you are in for a treat. Except in this book the group is not there to solve a murder. They are there to solve a robbery or robberies.
The group is entering the book Mystery in Wonderland Universe which is a huge amusement theme park. There are all kinds of rides and fair themed food as well as exhibits where animals are the focus. When they get there, they have to check into their hotel and at first they believe the individuals behind the check-in desk are people dressed as chickens ..... but they soon learn that that is incorrect.
When they get inside the theme park, they realize that all the "characters" are actually animals. They are given special lanyards that label them as inspectors so that they can investigate the robberies. With their lanyards whenever they are on a ride or exhibit, it will shut down so that they can speak with the animals to see about the robberies.
There is so much more that I could say, as it is, I am trying not to give too much away. One thing that I will say is that Pantley went overboard and out of the box with this story. There were a few times I questioned if she was drinking while writing this one .... and if she was, more power to her because it's a HIT !! It is definitely unique and very creative !!!!
Quick summary .... Main character Paige inherits the SnapDragon Inn and in the basement there is a magical library. Paige organizes a group of electic people to be a part of the book club. Every few months they gather with food and drinks and venture down to the basement where they each pick a book that they vote on. Once they have picked a book someone begins reading the first page out loud. Once they get a few paragraphs into the story, the room fills with fog and when it clears, they are in the book !! The Inn travels with them which makes it a nice comfort. In order to leave the book, they have to solve the case and write The End on the board and they will be whisked back home. Two things regarding the book journey are that regardless of how long they are "stuck" in the book, time stands still and when they return, no time has been lost. And the other things, which is probably the best thing, is that they can eat whatever they want and they won't gain weight and if you are familiar with this group, they LOVE to eat !!!
Okay now onto Carousels and Characters .... This is the ninth book in the series and if you have been reading them, you already know you are in for a treat. Except in this book the group is not there to solve a murder. They are there to solve a robbery or robberies.
The group is entering the book Mystery in Wonderland Universe which is a huge amusement theme park. There are all kinds of rides and fair themed food as well as exhibits where animals are the focus. When they get there, they have to check into their hotel and at first they believe the individuals behind the check-in desk are people dressed as chickens ..... but they soon learn that that is incorrect.
When they get inside the theme park, they realize that all the "characters" are actually animals. They are given special lanyards that label them as inspectors so that they can investigate the robberies. With their lanyards whenever they are on a ride or exhibit, it will shut down so that they can speak with the animals to see about the robberies.
There is so much more that I could say, as it is, I am trying not to give too much away. One thing that I will say is that Pantley went overboard and out of the box with this story. There were a few times I questioned if she was drinking while writing this one .... and if she was, more power to her because it's a HIT !! It is definitely unique and very creative !!!!
February 10, 2025
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Book Club
Carousels and Characters by Elizabeth Pantley brings the book club members into a book that is based around a theme park.
The Book Club
The Snapdragon Book Club members are dealing with losing Glo to her forever book while gaining a new member in Cosmo. Paige, out of them all, is taking it the hardest since the plans that the aunt and niece discussed won’t be happening anymore.
The other members are all doing great. They love having Cosmo around, as he brings in another touch that the club needs. Cosmo’s touch is that he brings joy to anything he does, which they need, even if it’s just a simple robbery going around a theme park.
Yup, you read that right. The Snapdragon Book Club is going into a book designed around a theme park. The theme park is totally different from what we will experience in the real world. I don’t want to give away how unique this theme park is. You will have to read the book to find out. I had my suspicions about certain theme park employees, and one of my suspicions turned out to be correct.
My rating for Carousels and Characters by Elizabeth Pantley is four stars. I recommend this whole series to anyone who loves paranormal cozy mysteries. It’s a great series, and I love all the characters. Ms. Pantley has a great way of making the reader feel like they are experiencing the journey into a book with the characters.
hank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Carousels and Characters by Elizabeth Pantley.
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
December 17, 2024
I am constantly baffled and amazed at the creative imagination of Elizabeth Pantley! Once again, she has leveled up in this new book and created an outrageously fantastical story.
On Book Club Day, when the club chooses a new cozy mystery to enter, Paige becomes entranced with a book about an amusement park, partly because of her memory of her mom taking her to Disneyland as a child. Others are not so sure, but eventually they agree upon her choice, and the club is swept into the magical theme park. Our friends are almost immediately pressed to assist in discovering why things have become missing.
Upon receiving this book, once I started to read, I spent the next few hours devouring it right to the end! - Exactly what always happens with her books for me! Life stops, and I spend the next several hours devouring the entire story, unable to put it down!
In this incredible animal-themed amusement park, including an exquisite carousel, our friends dive right into going on the rides. You’re almost immediately brought into the mystery; a complicated and intricate scheme that has caused disappearances that should not have happened.
Untangling the events becomes top priority, alongside the club’s enjoyment of all the park has to offer: rides for Forrest (the only teen), food for Zell, their spunky octogenarian original member, and clever feline Frank. There’s loads of enjoyment for all.
A few INSANE unexpected happenings and twists and turns occur in solving the identities behind the strange occurrences, as well as resolving them, and resetting the park back to its normal unusualness.
A shocking surprise (or THREE) completely knocked the wind out of my sails! Pick up this book quickly, and don’t plan to be able to put it down!!
If it is the first you have of the series, then you’ll definitely want to read the rest of them as well!
The genius and creativity of Elizabeth Pantley continues to baffle and surprise me with each new book, though it seems she has more than done it all, and yet she comes up with the next book, and outdoes herself once again! What could be next???
On Book Club Day, when the club chooses a new cozy mystery to enter, Paige becomes entranced with a book about an amusement park, partly because of her memory of her mom taking her to Disneyland as a child. Others are not so sure, but eventually they agree upon her choice, and the club is swept into the magical theme park. Our friends are almost immediately pressed to assist in discovering why things have become missing.
Upon receiving this book, once I started to read, I spent the next few hours devouring it right to the end! - Exactly what always happens with her books for me! Life stops, and I spend the next several hours devouring the entire story, unable to put it down!
In this incredible animal-themed amusement park, including an exquisite carousel, our friends dive right into going on the rides. You’re almost immediately brought into the mystery; a complicated and intricate scheme that has caused disappearances that should not have happened.
Untangling the events becomes top priority, alongside the club’s enjoyment of all the park has to offer: rides for Forrest (the only teen), food for Zell, their spunky octogenarian original member, and clever feline Frank. There’s loads of enjoyment for all.
A few INSANE unexpected happenings and twists and turns occur in solving the identities behind the strange occurrences, as well as resolving them, and resetting the park back to its normal unusualness.
A shocking surprise (or THREE) completely knocked the wind out of my sails! Pick up this book quickly, and don’t plan to be able to put it down!!
If it is the first you have of the series, then you’ll definitely want to read the rest of them as well!
The genius and creativity of Elizabeth Pantley continues to baffle and surprise me with each new book, though it seems she has more than done it all, and yet she comes up with the next book, and outdoes herself once again! What could be next???
April 6, 2026
This was definitely my favourite book of the series. I loved the setting, it made me feel like Paige with her love for Disneyland, there’s nothing like the feeling of being at a theme park or fairground. The magical feeling of merriment and whimsy makes even the most adulty adult feel like they could walk on air. This amusement park was even more unique in that the characters that you engaged with were real animals, although they could talk to you and engage with you.
Our group of amateur sleuths, including Cosmo on his first official book adventure, are tasked with finding out why various items and even characters are removed from their own habitats (or Pods as they are called here) and relocated, providing great risk to the individuals as they are chipped (it’s much more complex but you would need to read it for yourself).
As always, the banter and bickering between the club members, who have become more like a family now, is spot on, with Frank being the most snarky and hilarious one of all. It was nice to see Atticus loosen up a bit in this one and the hint of romance is definitely there with Paige (loving it).
The mystery wasn’t the usual cozy mystery ‘death by knitting needle’ affair with no bodies to be found (to Moonbeam’s relief) but just kidnappings and theft but it was an interesting storyline, constantly shifting and changing the readers mind about who or what was involved. The conclusion was unexpected which is nice and I honestly didn’t see it coming which makes a nice change.
I’m almost at the end of this series now and I hope there are more to come, I’m eager to continue adventuring with this wacky and adorable gang.
Our group of amateur sleuths, including Cosmo on his first official book adventure, are tasked with finding out why various items and even characters are removed from their own habitats (or Pods as they are called here) and relocated, providing great risk to the individuals as they are chipped (it’s much more complex but you would need to read it for yourself).
As always, the banter and bickering between the club members, who have become more like a family now, is spot on, with Frank being the most snarky and hilarious one of all. It was nice to see Atticus loosen up a bit in this one and the hint of romance is definitely there with Paige (loving it).
The mystery wasn’t the usual cozy mystery ‘death by knitting needle’ affair with no bodies to be found (to Moonbeam’s relief) but just kidnappings and theft but it was an interesting storyline, constantly shifting and changing the readers mind about who or what was involved. The conclusion was unexpected which is nice and I honestly didn’t see it coming which makes a nice change.
I’m almost at the end of this series now and I hope there are more to come, I’m eager to continue adventuring with this wacky and adorable gang.
December 22, 2024
Well I certainly can say I have never read anything like this before and I loved every minute. This author continues to come up with new and original ways to entertain her readers. The idea of writing a series where a book club actually goes inside the book and solve different mystery is ingenious. It gives her so much scope to let her imagination go that you have no idea what adventure you will be taken on next. This is definitely the case with this book. There is no murder to solve in this book and to be honest I would have no idea about how to go solving the case and instead just let the story play out. I wouldn't say there was any suspects as I felt like we were too busy making friends with the characters but somehow it worked out and the mastermind was revealed. I can't wait for the next book club adventure.
Pagie feeling nostalgic chooses the next book club adventure and the group heads to an amusement theme park, where nothing is as it seems. This is no ordinary amusement part and somebody is upsetting the balance. Posing as park inspectors the group can enter each attraction and ask questions but with the staff only responsible for there section, will they be able to puzzle out why things are disappearing from one location and turning up in another? Then some of the characters start to disappear and it looks like the gang will have to put there snack eating on hold to get to the bottom of things, before it's turns nasty.
I was given this free review copy book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Pagie feeling nostalgic chooses the next book club adventure and the group heads to an amusement theme park, where nothing is as it seems. This is no ordinary amusement part and somebody is upsetting the balance. Posing as park inspectors the group can enter each attraction and ask questions but with the staff only responsible for there section, will they be able to puzzle out why things are disappearing from one location and turning up in another? Then some of the characters start to disappear and it looks like the gang will have to put there snack eating on hold to get to the bottom of things, before it's turns nasty.
I was given this free review copy book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
February 14, 2025
I have loved every book in this series, and this one is no different. While each book can be read on its own, I highly recommend reading the books in order to follow along with Paige, Glo, and the rest of the book club.
I had forgotten about a small detail from the last book (I have read a few books since then), so I was slightly surprised by some details at the beginning. I don't want to spoil anything in case you aren't to this book yet since you are reading in order, as I suggested.
This book has the club diving into a mystery at a theme park. There are no murders, just robberies, and unexplained events. This theme park is like no other, where the workers are animals. It is an interesting setup as they are chipped and cannot leave certain areas. This helps keep them from attacking their natural prey. And they can talk; you don't see that often outside of Frank, the cat. The mystery kept me guessing, and I never did uncover the culprit.
I have some thoughts about how Paige will deal with her mother. There is a small rift at the beginning, and I have some unanswered questions about her visit. Perhaps those questions will be answered in future books.
There is a small tie-in to the author's Destiny Fall series. I don't know if this will be an ongoing thing with this one character, but maybe. And is there a possibility of a romance between Paige and Atticus? Only time will tell.
This is a delightful series and one I highly recommend. We give this book 5 paws up.
I had forgotten about a small detail from the last book (I have read a few books since then), so I was slightly surprised by some details at the beginning. I don't want to spoil anything in case you aren't to this book yet since you are reading in order, as I suggested.
This book has the club diving into a mystery at a theme park. There are no murders, just robberies, and unexplained events. This theme park is like no other, where the workers are animals. It is an interesting setup as they are chipped and cannot leave certain areas. This helps keep them from attacking their natural prey. And they can talk; you don't see that often outside of Frank, the cat. The mystery kept me guessing, and I never did uncover the culprit.
I have some thoughts about how Paige will deal with her mother. There is a small rift at the beginning, and I have some unanswered questions about her visit. Perhaps those questions will be answered in future books.
There is a small tie-in to the author's Destiny Fall series. I don't know if this will be an ongoing thing with this one character, but maybe. And is there a possibility of a romance between Paige and Atticus? Only time will tell.
This is a delightful series and one I highly recommend. We give this book 5 paws up.
December 13, 2025
"Carousels and Characters" is another delightful installment in Elizabeth Pantley’s Magical Mystery Book Club series, and it doesn’t disappoint. This quirky book club gets whisked into an enchanted amusement park, with glittering carousels, whimsical rides, and a dash of chaos. The stakes? Solve a string of mysterious robberies before the park faces utter ruin.
As always, the dynamic book club crew brings humor, heart, and plenty of charm to their sleuthing adventure. Cosmos is a standout here—his knack for chatting up everyone adds a light-hearted touch, even balancing out Moonbeam's more intense vibes. The group's banter and camaraderie continue to be one of the series’ biggest strengths.
The setting of the enchanted amusement park is brimming with magic and creativity, making it a joy to explore. While the Unipods and certain characters were a little tricky to picture at times, the whimsical atmosphere of the park more than made up for it. Plus, the appearance of a character from Pantley’s Destiny Falls series was a delightful surprise and added an exciting crossover element for longtime fans.
Though this book didn’t quite captivate me like some of the earlier ones, it still delivered plenty of twists, laughs, and magical moments. If you’re already a fan of the series, you’ll love joining the book club on this newest adventure. And if you’re new? Buckle up for a magical mystery ride!
As always, the dynamic book club crew brings humor, heart, and plenty of charm to their sleuthing adventure. Cosmos is a standout here—his knack for chatting up everyone adds a light-hearted touch, even balancing out Moonbeam's more intense vibes. The group's banter and camaraderie continue to be one of the series’ biggest strengths.
The setting of the enchanted amusement park is brimming with magic and creativity, making it a joy to explore. While the Unipods and certain characters were a little tricky to picture at times, the whimsical atmosphere of the park more than made up for it. Plus, the appearance of a character from Pantley’s Destiny Falls series was a delightful surprise and added an exciting crossover element for longtime fans.
Though this book didn’t quite captivate me like some of the earlier ones, it still delivered plenty of twists, laughs, and magical moments. If you’re already a fan of the series, you’ll love joining the book club on this newest adventure. And if you’re new? Buckle up for a magical mystery ride!
December 28, 2024
This series is about a book club that reads cozy mysteries. But something truly special happens each time. They are magically transported into the books where they stay until they solve the mystery. In this book, the book club travels to an enchanted amusement park. While the park is wonderful, robberies (both big and small) are affecting each of the rides. As inspectors, the group is looking into things to find the culprit. Hopefully they can do so soon.
I absolutely love this series and this book's no exception. It's well-written with well-developed characters who have really grown throughout the series. I was immediately drawn into this captivating story and kept hooked from beginning to end. Elizabeth is a wonderful author and storyteller. Her books draw you into her world allowing you to escape the real world for a while. I truly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to more adventures. While you don't have to read the books from this series in order, you do get more from things if you do. I did receive an ARC of this book and this is my honest, unbiased review.
I absolutely love this series and this book's no exception. It's well-written with well-developed characters who have really grown throughout the series. I was immediately drawn into this captivating story and kept hooked from beginning to end. Elizabeth is a wonderful author and storyteller. Her books draw you into her world allowing you to escape the real world for a while. I truly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to more adventures. While you don't have to read the books from this series in order, you do get more from things if you do. I did receive an ARC of this book and this is my honest, unbiased review.
February 11, 2025
I really enjoyed this story. When I read a book I try to fall into the story like I am one of the characters so I can enjoy it even more. I seriously would love to be part of the Magical Mystery Book Club!! This was the first book in the series that I have read so I don't know the full backstory of the characters but the descriptions were helpful in visualizing what they looked like as well as their expressions during certain scenes in the story. I particularly thought it was interesting that while in the book (in the story) Mollie the ghost was treated like she was living which was something that didn't happen in the other books in the series. When the characters would stop to get food there were special menus for her which I thought was neat.
The story is pretty quick to get into and understand what's going on. It was easy to read chapter after chapter without wanting to miss out on what's next for the group. All in all I really enjoyed this story and would love to jump into the next cozy mystery with the Magical Mystery Book Club!
The story is pretty quick to get into and understand what's going on. It was easy to read chapter after chapter without wanting to miss out on what's next for the group. All in all I really enjoyed this story and would love to jump into the next cozy mystery with the Magical Mystery Book Club!
December 20, 2024
Elizabeth Pantley's Carousels and Characters: Magical Mystery Book Club #9, takes the gang on a new and exciting adventure. It's unlike any "book journey" that they've been on so far. It's Disneyland brought to life, in true cozy mystery fashion. In this well written story, the zany group of amateur sleuths band together to uncover the mystery behind magical disappearances happening in a fantasy theme park. With a few new surprises, a touch of drama and loads of witty banter along the way... this is a "book journey" that you won't want to miss. It's a definite "Must Read" for fans of the M.M.B.C. series, Cozy Mysteries, Fantasy Fiction, Supernatural and Paranormal stories. And although this is book #9 in the series, like all of the M.M.B.C. books, it reads perfectly as a standalone story or together. But these books are like Pringles. Once you pop... You won't want to stop reading! It's Fantastic Fiction!
December 30, 2024
I've now read all the books in this series, and each time I start one I feel just like the characters when it's book journey day. It's so exciting and I'm anxious to know what the adventure will be this time!
For this trip, the book club members get whooshed to an amusement park... bigger than Disneyland... and much more strange. Weird things are happening (no murder!), like props and even the animal exhibits getting moved from one area to another. No one knows how, and it's up to the book club members to figure it out.
I loved this book. Frank is his normal snarky self; Sebastian, as usual, charms people into opening up to him; Zell's mind is always on the food... as I've said before, it's like spending time with your best friends. Pantley does an excellent job of fleshing out the characters, making them likeable and warm.
Disclosure: We received a free digital ARC of this book. No guarantee of a review or other compensation was made.
For this trip, the book club members get whooshed to an amusement park... bigger than Disneyland... and much more strange. Weird things are happening (no murder!), like props and even the animal exhibits getting moved from one area to another. No one knows how, and it's up to the book club members to figure it out.
I loved this book. Frank is his normal snarky self; Sebastian, as usual, charms people into opening up to him; Zell's mind is always on the food... as I've said before, it's like spending time with your best friends. Pantley does an excellent job of fleshing out the characters, making them likeable and warm.
Disclosure: We received a free digital ARC of this book. No guarantee of a review or other compensation was made.
February 17, 2025
This is the 9th book in this very unique cozy mystery series; I believe that I’ve now read all the previous books in this series, but this book can stand alone well. The author does a good job of reiterating the basics of the magical book club rules and how the characters travel into the setting of the cozy mystery as they begin reading a book; they must solve the mystery before the end of the book before they can return home. This time they travel to an enchanted theme park, where puzzling thefts are occurring. This author has such a great imagination and writes descriptions that allow one to visualize everything so vividly. The book group members are each a bit quirky in individual ways and interact so familiarly; I’m particularly intrigued by the potential romance between Paige and Atticus. The writing is great and the mystery fun to solve. I can definitely recommend this book and series; I was provided an ARC, which I appreciate, but these opinions are my own.
February 12, 2025
This is the 9th book in the Magical Mystery Book Club series that keeps you totally entertained! Paige chooses a mystery for the club about an amusement park, similar to the one she and her Aunt had visited and the Club agreed. The rides, the food and oh those animals this book was so much fun. But in keeping with visiting the places with the club, they have to figure out what is wrong and right it before they can leave the book. It seems the park is being inundated with thefts, enough so that the amusement park may have to shut down, putting everyone out of work and patrons disappointed. Can the group solve this one? With so many twists and turns, you can't put the book down until the fun, surprising ending. I highly recommend this whole series, and this book is a fantastic addition. I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
January 22, 2025
Definitely an interesting one
Not my favorite as I felt I couldn’t connect to any of the characters very well this time around. But I am intrigued by any possibility that Paige and Atticus may be seeing each other in a different light in the future although for some reason I always felt he and Moonbeam were better suited. I felt the opposites attract thing for them, and his relationship with Forrest adds to how they’re suited. I also pictured Bob as an axolotl for some reason by the description so I hope that’s right lol. I also am intrigued by the Destiny Falls crossover due to not having picked up that series yet. Bakeries and Buffoonery and the one about Sprites whose title escapes me currently are definitely still my top two. Can’t wait to see more of this series!
Not my favorite as I felt I couldn’t connect to any of the characters very well this time around. But I am intrigued by any possibility that Paige and Atticus may be seeing each other in a different light in the future although for some reason I always felt he and Moonbeam were better suited. I felt the opposites attract thing for them, and his relationship with Forrest adds to how they’re suited. I also pictured Bob as an axolotl for some reason by the description so I hope that’s right lol. I also am intrigued by the Destiny Falls crossover due to not having picked up that series yet. Bakeries and Buffoonery and the one about Sprites whose title escapes me currently are definitely still my top two. Can’t wait to see more of this series!
February 7, 2025
Once again Ms. Pantley has outdone herself. This installment of the Magical Mystery Book Club has no murder but kidnappings and thefts that threaten the world of the book. Science fiction meets cozy mystery. Just when you think you have it figured out, you meet someone else who might have done it as well. ?The zany group are all here and you will fall in love with them again and wish, like I do, that you could be a member of this book club. I love all of the relationships everyone has from Frank to Zell each one is as unique and fun as could be possible. Who wouldn't get excited about book club days with the bunch?!? Still my favorite series and Ms. Pantley ended with another surprise that I know will add to the fun.
December 28, 2025
Carousels and Characters is the ninth cozy mystery in the Magical Mystery Book Club series. In this mystery the book club travels to a theme park that is enchanted. When the animals, Podsters, start going missing from their area of the park the book club must figure out what’s going on before it’s too late.
I fall even more in love with this series and the characters with each new mystery. The characters are amazing and complement each other nicely. The mysteries are always fun and intriguing and keep me guessing along the way. I wasn’t sure what to expect in this book where the animals were the main characters but I really enjoyed it from start to finish. This was a thrilling and enjoyable read and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
I fall even more in love with this series and the characters with each new mystery. The characters are amazing and complement each other nicely. The mysteries are always fun and intriguing and keep me guessing along the way. I wasn’t sure what to expect in this book where the animals were the main characters but I really enjoyed it from start to finish. This was a thrilling and enjoyable read and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
December 25, 2024
Elizabeth Pantley has done it again. In book 9 of the Magical Mystery Book Club series she once again demonstrates her command of descriptive writing. In the fireworks scene, I could picture what the bursts looked like. Such a joy to read.
This book can be read without reading all the prior books because she easily tells you the background of the group in a short time and it's very easy to understand.
I love how the characters have developed and grown as have some of their relationships.
I highly recommend this book.
I received this boom for free and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
This book can be read without reading all the prior books because she easily tells you the background of the group in a short time and it's very easy to understand.
I love how the characters have developed and grown as have some of their relationships.
I highly recommend this book.
I received this boom for free and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
January 15, 2025
This is not your ordinary theme park! There is no murder to solve. The book club is investigating items and animals disappearing around the park. I think Cosmo is a great addition to the wonderful group of characters. I love how well the book club works together. This book does have a slower pace than the other ones. I am not sure if it’s because of no murder or not. I felt there was not as much excitement as previous books. There was lots of laughter. The ending was surprising with the introduction of a new character. I am excited to see how this plays out.
Thank you to the author for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the author for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 19, 2025
Carousels and Characters by Elizabeth Pantley is the ninth book in the completely delightful Magical Mystery Book Club series. Even if you’ve never read a book in this series, you can enjoy this one as the author makes it easy to catch on to the heart of it. This series is unique in that the book club members solve mysteries within a cozy mystery book. Yes, they actually go into the book and become part of the story!
In Carousels and Characters, much to Moonbeam’s happiness, the club doesn’t have a murder to solve but rather a theft. And the theft is really strange! As I’ve said, this series is unique; furthermore, this book is unique to the series! Instead of going to a town, island, etc. they go to an amusement park! The amusement park is unlike any other in the “real” world. I’m not going to explain how it’s different since it would spoil your joy of finding it out yourself! The theft includes many different items, and items often end up in places they shouldn’t be. It’s very puzzling to the book club. How and why is this happening?!
I enjoy the characters in this series so much! The book club is made up of some “normal” characters and some quirky ones. There’s also Frank, the talking cat. This club loves to eat, and that’s putting it mildly! Thankfully the food that they consume while in the books doesn’t have any lasting effect! Book calories don’t count! It’s especially a good thing in Carousels and Characters since they eat an enormous amount of fair food. I’m jealous. Even Moonbeam, the extremely health-conscious member, throws caution to the wind and eats her fair share of junk food.
Since many of you may have read the prior books and not this one yet, I won’t tell you something that happens to some character(s) because it would absolutely spoil something unexpected! I really liked this plot point and hope it continues throughout the remainder of the series.
Carousels and Characters has a slower pace than most of the books in the series; however, it will have you turning the pages! I “sort of” figured out who the culprit was, but in the end I was surprised that it wasn’t quite whom I was expecting.
I highly recommend Carousels and Characters (as well as the entire series) for its very unique plot, eclectic mix of characters both old and new, and its entertaining setting! 5 stars!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
In Carousels and Characters, much to Moonbeam’s happiness, the club doesn’t have a murder to solve but rather a theft. And the theft is really strange! As I’ve said, this series is unique; furthermore, this book is unique to the series! Instead of going to a town, island, etc. they go to an amusement park! The amusement park is unlike any other in the “real” world. I’m not going to explain how it’s different since it would spoil your joy of finding it out yourself! The theft includes many different items, and items often end up in places they shouldn’t be. It’s very puzzling to the book club. How and why is this happening?!
I enjoy the characters in this series so much! The book club is made up of some “normal” characters and some quirky ones. There’s also Frank, the talking cat. This club loves to eat, and that’s putting it mildly! Thankfully the food that they consume while in the books doesn’t have any lasting effect! Book calories don’t count! It’s especially a good thing in Carousels and Characters since they eat an enormous amount of fair food. I’m jealous. Even Moonbeam, the extremely health-conscious member, throws caution to the wind and eats her fair share of junk food.
Since many of you may have read the prior books and not this one yet, I won’t tell you something that happens to some character(s) because it would absolutely spoil something unexpected! I really liked this plot point and hope it continues throughout the remainder of the series.
Carousels and Characters has a slower pace than most of the books in the series; however, it will have you turning the pages! I “sort of” figured out who the culprit was, but in the end I was surprised that it wasn’t quite whom I was expecting.
I highly recommend Carousels and Characters (as well as the entire series) for its very unique plot, eclectic mix of characters both old and new, and its entertaining setting! 5 stars!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
January 20, 2025
This is a different mystery for the book club. Paige has fond memories of going to Disneyland, so when she finds a book set in an amusement park, she convinces the others to go to the story. This time, there isn't a murder, but a mystery. As they look for clues, they have some fun on the rides. It is also Forrest's birthday, so they have to schedule some fun mixed in with the mystery. As they encounter some interesting characters, they aren't sure who to trust. Looks can be deceiving. I liked the surprise visitor at the end.
January 26, 2025
Carousels and Characters is book #9 in the Magical Mystery Book Club series by Elizabeth Pantley.
I wish there was a book club like this! The book club members are wonderful. They are family that care for each other. This was quite a challenging mystery. The environment and characters were unique. I was so happy for Mollie and the opportunities she had in this adventure. And the special surprise at the end was a nice treat!
I received a free copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I wish there was a book club like this! The book club members are wonderful. They are family that care for each other. This was quite a challenging mystery. The environment and characters were unique. I was so happy for Mollie and the opportunities she had in this adventure. And the special surprise at the end was a nice treat!
I received a free copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
February 11, 2025
“A zany, troublesome bunch, but we love them all the same.’
I love every adventure that the Magical Book Club takes yet this one left me feeling a little disappointed. Normally the characters seem to jump off the page at me and this time, they fell a little flat and it seemed like most of the book had the group eating and walking in circles without a lot of progress. Introducing a hint of a possible romance down the line for Paige and Atticus definitely got me thinking and the problem Paige will have to face with her mother left me looking forward to the next installment however.
I love every adventure that the Magical Book Club takes yet this one left me feeling a little disappointed. Normally the characters seem to jump off the page at me and this time, they fell a little flat and it seemed like most of the book had the group eating and walking in circles without a lot of progress. Introducing a hint of a possible romance down the line for Paige and Atticus definitely got me thinking and the problem Paige will have to face with her mother left me looking forward to the next installment however.
June 1, 2025
Carousels and Characters delivers a delightful change of pace in the Magical Mystery Book Club series—this time, the mystery isn’t a murder! I loved the focus on thefts and the refreshing shift to a different kind of crime, something I wish more cozy mysteries would explore. The enchanted amusement park setting is whimsical and vividly imagined—if you love theme parks, you’ll enjoy every twist and turn. While you can read this as a standalone, it’s always more fun getting to know the quirky book club members over the course of the series. Another magical adventure from Elizabeth Pantley!
December 16, 2025
Oh this one was really fun! Talking animals at an amusement park!! The gang visit an amusement park and realize that instead of a dead body, there is missing items and characters in the park. With a very high tech sci-fi feel to the story, the gang must solve the mystery.
I really enjoyed this one. I love amusement parks and this was such a fun setting. There was so many layers to the story and it really drew me in and kept me interested until the end. Definitely my favourite of the series - so far.
I really enjoyed this one. I love amusement parks and this was such a fun setting. There was so many layers to the story and it really drew me in and kept me interested until the end. Definitely my favourite of the series - so far.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews