What do you think?
Rate this book
Hallow’s Promise #2
Bubbles and Troubles
CSI meets fantasy - with a dash of cozy!
Rae is learning to balance her new role as Hallow’s Promise’s Crime Investigation Expert and her business selling helpful potions from her magic wagon, BREW-TEA-FUL. But fate has other plans…
When a professor from the local college is found dead and Rae’s new best friend is arrested as the prime suspect, she’s determined to do anything to find the real killer. While fighting creatures made from shadows, discovering a new type of dangerous magic, and partnering with an annoying(ly attractive) mercenary, Rae must decide if friendship is worth sacrificing her own freedom.
Find a comfy spot, a yummy beverage, and settle in with this almost-cozy fantasy murder mystery, sprinkled with mischief, stirred with found family, and brewed especially for you.
Rae is learning to balance her new role as Hallow’s Promise’s Crime Investigation Expert and her business selling helpful potions from her magic wagon, BREW-TEA-FUL. But fate has other plans…
When a professor from the local college is found dead and Rae’s new best friend is arrested as the prime suspect, she’s determined to do anything to find the real killer. While fighting creatures made from shadows, discovering a new type of dangerous magic, and partnering with an annoying(ly attractive) mercenary, Rae must decide if friendship is worth sacrificing her own freedom.
Find a comfy spot, a yummy beverage, and settle in with this almost-cozy fantasy murder mystery, sprinkled with mischief, stirred with found family, and brewed especially for you.
192 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 15, 2024
2 people are currently reading
20 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 33 reviews
December 15, 2024
This was awesome! I adore the sentient tea wagon and I really enjoyed the science and forensics spin laid over a paranormal mystery. A great little twist and some amazing characters. I received a copy of this for advanced review, so I haven’t read the first book yet. It’s a testament to this story that even without knowing all the history of the characters, I was totally invested. I can’t wait to go back now and see where Rae and Valen came from! Good banter and the entire harloon arc was hysterical. Very much looking forward to returning to this world and catching up on the rest of the series!
December 16, 2024
Rae is only trying to live her life that sells tras and Brews in her magic wagon but there is a murder that happens on the college campus . Her side Jon is a crime investigater
It's has quirky characters and their "pets"....... I haven't read the first book but they can be read as a standalone.... I will be going back reading the first book in this series
It's has quirky characters and their "pets"....... I haven't read the first book but they can be read as a standalone.... I will be going back reading the first book in this series
March 21, 2025
The cozy is cozying, and the mystery is mysterying! Love this series so stinking much and I love that the story is gripping but takes the time to slow down and cozy up with the details and steps of making a cup of comforting tea. Also, we love BUBBLES!
January 6, 2025
It was a short but really good book and storyline. From the first chapter it was good.
March 4, 2025
Bubbles and Troubles by AN Payton is a fun, cozy read that pulls you into a magical world with great characters and a plot full of suspense. From the beginning, the book has this warm, inviting vibe that makes you want to keep reading, especially on a rainy afternoon.
One of the best parts of the book is the character development. The characters feel really real and relatable. Watching them grow and change through the story made me care about what happened to them. The relationships between the characters are well done and add a lot of heart to the book.
The story itself is engaging and kept me hooked. The magical beings are cool, and there’s a nice mix of light moments and tense ones that keep you on the edge of your seat. That said, I would have loved to see a bit more about the magical world. It’s a fascinating concept, but I felt like there was more to explore. More details about the magic would’ve been awesome.
Also, it would be great if the book had a map of Hallow's Promise at the start. The world-building is a bit light, so having a map to visualize the setting would’ve made it easier to follow along, especially with some of the less described locations.
Lastly, there are a fair number of spelling and grammar mistakes throughout the book. They don’t totally ruin the experience, but they do slow things down a little. Hopefully, this can be cleaned up in future editions.
Overall, Bubbles and Troubles is a charming, enjoyable book with great characters and an interesting plot. It could benefit from a bit more world-building and some editing, but I think fantasy fans who love a cozy read will really enjoy it.
One of the best parts of the book is the character development. The characters feel really real and relatable. Watching them grow and change through the story made me care about what happened to them. The relationships between the characters are well done and add a lot of heart to the book.
The story itself is engaging and kept me hooked. The magical beings are cool, and there’s a nice mix of light moments and tense ones that keep you on the edge of your seat. That said, I would have loved to see a bit more about the magical world. It’s a fascinating concept, but I felt like there was more to explore. More details about the magic would’ve been awesome.
Also, it would be great if the book had a map of Hallow's Promise at the start. The world-building is a bit light, so having a map to visualize the setting would’ve made it easier to follow along, especially with some of the less described locations.
Lastly, there are a fair number of spelling and grammar mistakes throughout the book. They don’t totally ruin the experience, but they do slow things down a little. Hopefully, this can be cleaned up in future editions.
Overall, Bubbles and Troubles is a charming, enjoyable book with great characters and an interesting plot. It could benefit from a bit more world-building and some editing, but I think fantasy fans who love a cozy read will really enjoy it.
July 31, 2025
Book 2 in The Hallows Promise series picks up right where the first left off!
After solving her first murder, Rae is back—balancing her tea shop BrewTeaFul and her new role as a Crime Investigation Specialist, employed by her werewolf friend and Investigator, Leof. When a professor at the local university (where her best friend Krissa works) is found murdered, Rae is called in once again to uncover the truth. But the case quickly turns personal when Krissa is arrested after incriminating evidence is discovered in her home.
Now, Rae is racing against the clock to prove Krissa’s innocence before she’s handed over to the Sheriff and taken to Erline—or worse.
With help from the enigmatic mercenary Valen (with whom Rae may be developing something more than just a professional relationship), her loyal friend Leof, her warplog Bubbles, and of course, Brew, Rae dives into a tangled web of secrets, magic, and murder.
I’m still completely hooked on this cozy little series by A.N. Payton. If you love a blend of mystery, a touch of magic, quirky characters, and a rich, magical world, this series is a must-read!
After solving her first murder, Rae is back—balancing her tea shop BrewTeaFul and her new role as a Crime Investigation Specialist, employed by her werewolf friend and Investigator, Leof. When a professor at the local university (where her best friend Krissa works) is found murdered, Rae is called in once again to uncover the truth. But the case quickly turns personal when Krissa is arrested after incriminating evidence is discovered in her home.
Now, Rae is racing against the clock to prove Krissa’s innocence before she’s handed over to the Sheriff and taken to Erline—or worse.
With help from the enigmatic mercenary Valen (with whom Rae may be developing something more than just a professional relationship), her loyal friend Leof, her warplog Bubbles, and of course, Brew, Rae dives into a tangled web of secrets, magic, and murder.
I’m still completely hooked on this cozy little series by A.N. Payton. If you love a blend of mystery, a touch of magic, quirky characters, and a rich, magical world, this series is a must-read!
December 12, 2024
Disclaimer: I received an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review of the book. No spoilers!
When I first started reading this book, I didn't realize that it was the second in a series. A.N. Payton is a thorough world builder and there is very little that I felt I didn't understand from having not read the first; you could definitely read it as a standalone and enjoy it just as much. The main character, Rae, is so relatable and I enjoyed the details of her expertise in both her tea business and as a crime investigation expert; without confusing the reader, we learn a bit more about brewing and spell casting in this fantasy world. It's a quick read and definitely has the advertised cozy vibes. I didn't see the twist coming, which is a pleasant change from other books that follow the same tropes. The only thing that I think takes away from the story is that the action comes in waves and can make the other parts of the book feel a little lacking in activity.
When I first started reading this book, I didn't realize that it was the second in a series. A.N. Payton is a thorough world builder and there is very little that I felt I didn't understand from having not read the first; you could definitely read it as a standalone and enjoy it just as much. The main character, Rae, is so relatable and I enjoyed the details of her expertise in both her tea business and as a crime investigation expert; without confusing the reader, we learn a bit more about brewing and spell casting in this fantasy world. It's a quick read and definitely has the advertised cozy vibes. I didn't see the twist coming, which is a pleasant change from other books that follow the same tropes. The only thing that I think takes away from the story is that the action comes in waves and can make the other parts of the book feel a little lacking in activity.
January 19, 2025
I actually was accepted as an ARC reader for this one before I had read the first book in the series. I went back to read the first, just to make sure all made sense. I love this series so much I have already preordered the 3rd book! Its so whimsical, and has a dash of crime scene investigation in it. I adore Raes character, and watching her rebuild her life/figure out her next steps and what she wants to do. Valen is a welcome presence although Rae knows she can and will fend for herself, regardless of his original reason for being there, all he wants is to protect her. The crimes they solve are incredibly intriguing considering where and how Rae used to reside before Hallows Promise. Brew is such a fun addition to the story with her own personality and honestly who DOESNT love bubbles ! A.N Payton is absolutely becoming one of my favorite authors!
Thank you to both the author and the publisher for the chance to read this before it went live!
Thank you to both the author and the publisher for the chance to read this before it went live!
December 8, 2024
Rae is trying to live her life, selling teas and brews in her magic wagon when a murder happens on the college campus and she is called to her side job, crime investigator.
Bubbles and Troubles has a diverse, quirky set of characters and their “pets.” Werewolves, magic wielders, mercenaries, warplogs add great dimension to the story, keep you entertained and wanting to learn more about them. Good murder mystery along with a cast of characters that are trying to figure out if they are friends or enemies.
Disclaimer I didn’t read the first book, but it was very enjoyable as a stand alone story and I will be going back to read this first. It was a short, fast read and I would happily have like the story to be longer.
Bubbles and Troubles has a diverse, quirky set of characters and their “pets.” Werewolves, magic wielders, mercenaries, warplogs add great dimension to the story, keep you entertained and wanting to learn more about them. Good murder mystery along with a cast of characters that are trying to figure out if they are friends or enemies.
Disclaimer I didn’t read the first book, but it was very enjoyable as a stand alone story and I will be going back to read this first. It was a short, fast read and I would happily have like the story to be longer.
December 9, 2024
This is a fun, cozy, quick read. I love the authors use of fine details (such as each element of the teas) that make the main character really come to life. The book has magic and other supernatural elements that add great surprises and it seems the series has lots of room to grow. The book does have some slight violence as it is about murder and mystery, but not too deep or disturbing. I absolutely love that it could be a standalone book, but it’s fun to read in order too! Can’t wait to see what’s next :-)
December 20, 2024
This book was a crime mystery with the cozy vibe of a magical tea wagon and some heart warming friendships that let you feeling like you’ve just had a warm hug.
As Rae settles into her new job as a crime investigator extraordinaire whilst continuing her magical tea business, she will be pulled into a murder investigation that had very personal stakes! A quick read, but a good one! I highly recommend.
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review, the opinions above are entirely my own!
As Rae settles into her new job as a crime investigator extraordinaire whilst continuing her magical tea business, she will be pulled into a murder investigation that had very personal stakes! A quick read, but a good one! I highly recommend.
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review, the opinions above are entirely my own!
December 18, 2024
I loved this book, I thought it was put together very well. I loved the way it kinda combined my outside love of like crime scene shows, with my whimsical side of magic and everything. It was a short read for me and it kept me interested I didint want to put it down. I will definitely read more of A.N Paytons writing cause I really do like it. I would recommend this book if your looking for a change of pace!
January 2, 2025
I was so excited to jump back into this series and continue to see where Rae’s story would go. I loved seeing how Rae grows into caring and showing her vulnerable side with those she’s becoming friends with, but I LOVED seeing her show her “fuck around and find out side”.
I enjoyed seeing more magic in this book in your typical idea of magic, but also with it being incorporated with the crime analyzing. I really hope we continue to get more into Rae’s powers, past and potential love interest.
I enjoyed seeing more magic in this book in your typical idea of magic, but also with it being incorporated with the crime analyzing. I really hope we continue to get more into Rae’s powers, past and potential love interest.
October 23, 2025
Exceptional!!
I have not been able to put this series down. As soon as I'm done with this review I'll grab the next and start to read it. Its been a long time since I've been able to devour through a series and I'm so pleased I stumbled upon this one.
The world of Hallows Promise is just absurdly wonderful. The characters you come to love and experience their trials with them. You truly feel like you're there with everyone.
I have not been able to put this series down. As soon as I'm done with this review I'll grab the next and start to read it. Its been a long time since I've been able to devour through a series and I'm so pleased I stumbled upon this one.
The world of Hallows Promise is just absurdly wonderful. The characters you come to love and experience their trials with them. You truly feel like you're there with everyone.
December 12, 2024
The world building!!! When I received my ARC I hadn’t realized it was the second book in a series however I didn’t struggle to understand anything in the book, Rae, Krissa, and Loef are like the three muskateers of friendship and I loved seeing friends stick up for one another no matter the challenge!
*I received a free ARC from the author, A.N Payton*
*I received a free ARC from the author, A.N Payton*
December 28, 2024
This book was adorable. It was a quick, easy read with a good story. The characters were likeable and made me want to know more about them. I also loved the mix of magic and CSI.
I haven't read the first book in this series, but I will now, and I'll look for other releases in the future. Is it amazing world building and deep, emotional characters? No, not yet, anyway. But it was fun.
I haven't read the first book in this series, but I will now, and I'll look for other releases in the future. Is it amazing world building and deep, emotional characters? No, not yet, anyway. But it was fun.
December 29, 2024
I read this as an arc from the author and I loved it! Super cute clean cozy fantasy. Think Encanto, Legends & Lattes meets CSI and Bones with a case of hidden identity thrown in. Also, a morally grey MMC. However, the friendship was the main star of this read which I adored. If you’re looking at getting into fantasy, start here!
March 3, 2025
Rae and Valen are just the best. Bubbles and Troubles is a great follow up for Brews and Clues. In this one her new bestie is arrested for the murder of a Professor so the new Hallows Promise’s Crime Investigation Expert is on the job to figure out the real killer. Even with new dangerous magic in the way. The Slow Burn between Rae and Valen is great but I can't wait till they get together.
December 11, 2024
An entertaining book, set in a unique paranormal world, with amazing characters (I totally love Bubbles) and lots of giggles. I really enjoyed it.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
December 20, 2024
A wonderfully cozy murder mystery with a dash of the fantastical. The character development we got in this second story was exactly what I want from a sequel. The main character, Rae, is as lovable as ever with a strong voice that helps really get into her head.
December 23, 2024
It was a good book, although I got confused at times. I love the magical aspect to it and a little romance. Definitely got me thinking who might have done it and it definitely wasn’t what I was thinking. Good young adult book I believe.
December 27, 2024
Loved this book, super easy and cosy read. I read the first book when I signed up for an ARC of this book but they both could definitely be read as stand alones. I really enjoyed it and can’t wait to see what happens next with Rae and Valen
January 4, 2025
It’s a light read for any age. The end was not what I had expected and definitely kept me guessing. You get more of a glimpse into Rae’s prior life. Which explains why she values her friendship and kindness as much as she does.
December 12, 2024
Awesome book! Loved it. Spellbinding, magical, and addictive.. Really fascinated with these characters..
December 15, 2024
Murder mystery in a fantasy realm with fantastical beasts, magic-enhanced tea and a sprinkle of romance. An enjoyable read in an interesting realm, will gladly continue this series.
December 15, 2024
I really like this mystery book. With Witches and werewolves and mystical creatures is was a great story. It kept me surprised till the end. I would definitely like to read more from this Author
January 1, 2025
Short crime fighting book with magic and magical creatures. Rae is a strong female character but hope all her power comes out in the next book or so.
February 20, 2025
Even better than the first book! Higher stakes, a deeper look into Rae's past, and new friends. Can't wait for the next installment!
April 15, 2025
Easy reads for stressful days
December 15, 2024
These books were so cute, fun, quick, and cozy! I thoroughly enjoyed them. I loved the magical elements, and the teas and their names are so cute and well thought out. I love the characters and the different supernatural aspects. I’m just really loving “cozy” books of all varieties lately, and these are honestly some of my favorites yet!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews