Witchfest

The Hollowbeck Paranormal Cozy Mysteries #4

by Amelia Ash, Kim M. Watt

The next book in the Hollowbeck Paranormal Cozy Mysteries Series is coming in 2025!

Genres: Fantasy, British Literature, Fiction

323 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 15, 2025

Reviews

[Eric · Rating 3 out of 5]

This Mask...Querade gets out of hand as the residents of Hollowbeck don charmed/hexed face pieces that bring out the best and worst of the wearers. All to welcome the winter solstice. There is an evildoer in the mix. Who can it be?

Our wannabe town witch has to use all her charms and bad taste to ferret out the cause of the calamities wrecked by the mask wearers. Unfortunately, our heroin is also trapped beneath her facial covering. Enter the rat, talking cat and ghost dog.

More nutty fun from Amelia Ash.

[Erica Wildwood · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm a huge fan of Kim's Toot Hansell and Gobbelino London books, but I think the collaboration with Amelia Ash is a lot less successful. These books lack Kim's subtleties and quiet wisdom. Everything is over the top. Calling a cat Ruiner because he ruins things is hardly subtle, not funny (well, not to me) and typical of the 'humour' in this book. This one also reminds me somewhat of Terry Pratchett's early books, in that towards the end it becomes really overblown. And it contains at least two instances of bad grammar, as in 'looking AT (...name...) AND I'. I know this is commonly used nowadays but it is bad grammar and annoys the hell out of me. It's ...AND ME. Grrrr!
I'm reading these books out of loyalty to Kim and because I get them with kindle unlimited. I 'm not sure I'd actually pay for them. In contrast, I've pre-ordered Kim's latest DI Adams book and will happily pay when it arrives on my kindle.
Oh dear, I'm being harsh. I guess these books are just not my kind of thing. Other people love them, so don't be put off by my review

[Karen Belciglio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Next Step!

Love the way the series is moving! Developing the characters and maturing both Morgan and Ruiner, it’s a delightful ride. Can’t wait for the next book!

[Sarah Jensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: Witchfest by Amelia Ash and Kim M. Watt

Overall Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.25/5)

Scoring Breakdown:
World-Building & Atmosphere: 5/5 – A lush, immersive magical world with vivid detail
Character Depth & Relationships: 4/5 – Strong protagonists with compelling dynamics, though some side characters lack development
Plot & Pacing: 4/5 – Engaging and fast-paced, though some twists feel slightly rushed
Themes & Originality: 4.5/5 – Fresh take on witchcraft with rich thematic layers
Prose & Style: 4/5 – Elegant and evocative, with occasional pacing hiccups

Synopsis & Magical Allure
Witchfest by Amelia Ash and Kim M. Watt is a spellbinding dive into a world where witchcraft is both revered and feared. The authors craft an intoxicating blend of mystery, rivalry, and enchantment, making it difficult to put the book down. While the premise leans on familiar witchy tropes, the execution is fresh, layering political intrigue and personal stakes into the narrative.

Character Complexity & Dynamics
The strength of Witchfest lies in its well-drawn protagonists, whose motivations and flaws feel authentic. The central relationships—whether alliances, rivalries, or romances—are nuanced and evolve naturally. However, some secondary characters, particularly antagonists or minor players, could benefit from deeper exploration to avoid feeling one-dimensional. The emotional arcs of the main characters are satisfying, though a few pivotal moments could have used more buildup to maximize impact.

Setting & Magical System
The world of Witchfest is its own character—vibrant, dangerous, and teeming with lore. The festival setting is particularly well-realized, blending spectacle with underlying tension. The magic system is inventive yet intuitive, avoiding excessive exposition while still feeling grounded in rules. The atmospheric descriptions—whether of enchanted forests, candlelit rituals, or treacherous trials—are so vivid that readers will feel transported.

Plot Structure & Suspense
The novel balances action, intrigue, and quieter character moments effectively, though the pacing occasionally stumbles in the second act. Some plot twists land with thrilling precision, while others feel slightly abrupt, as if the narrative needed a few more pages to breathe. The climax, however, is satisfying, tying together emotional and magical threads in a way that feels earned.

Themes & Symbolism
Beyond its enchanting surface, Witchfest explores themes of power, identity, and the cost of ambition. The authors weave in commentary on tradition versus innovation, as well as the ethical dilemmas of magic, without veering into heavy-handedness. The festival itself serves as a microcosm of these conflicts, making the setting thematically resonant.

Prose & Narrative Voice
Ash and Watt’s prose is elegant and immersive, with a knack for sensory detail that brings the magical world to life. While the writing is generally strong, there are moments where the pacing could be tighter, particularly in transitional scenes.

Final Verdict
Witchfest is a bewitching read that will delight fans of magical competition stories and witchy lore. While it has minor pacing flaws and some underdeveloped side characters, its strengths—gorgeous world-building, compelling protagonists, and rich thematic depth—make it a standout. Highly recommended for readers who love immersive fantasy with heart and intrigue.

Acknowledgments:
Thank you to NetGalley and the authors, Amelia Ash and Kim M. Watt, for providing an advance copy of Witchfest in exchange for an honest review.

[Elley Murray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored the first and second book in this series, but then sort of stalled out several times on book three, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this fourth installment. Thankfully, Amelia Ash is BACK and better than ever! And okay, yes, I saw who the bad guy is coming from miles and miles away (why can Morgan not see these things?!) but it was still quite the ride. There were moments where I was questioning if it was TOO obvious, so maybe it was on purpose - who knows! And still - what is up with Grace?!

This is the fourth book in The Hollowbeck Paranormal Cozy Mysteries series, and I highly recommend reading this series in order.

[DJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh my- even though this book is in a series - I have not read the Hollowbecks yet, and found this to be an easy read alone! And, Yes, it has encouraged me to look at the other books in the series.
I have questions; but I am certain the questions are answered by reading what came before!

For this book - I found it to be fun, light hearted, often silly. The small town location, the local characters. The possibility of evil doings (trying not to post a spoiler) We have witches who are not witches; or at least, believe they are not!

Fun, I do recommend reading.

[Hairi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Except for the first chapter, the rest was really good and fun to read. I finished it yesterday and am unable to start new one since then.
That's how much I enjoyed it, specially the last 30-40% of the book.

I was really worried about Morgan and her magical abilities. I so so wanted for her to reach her peak witchiness soon but offcourse not how growth as a witch is supposed to be, right?

Starlight was kinda annoying character with mostly MIA. So I didn't like her much.

Grace was... Cool but suspicious. So I don't know whether I like her or not.

As for Alaric (is this how it's spelled?) and Finn. I kinda suspected the one you would least suspect (Read the book, you will understand my point). I knew way before everyone in the book as for who the culprit behind all the mess was. (genius, right? lol).


So many scenes cracked me up while some made me annoyed as heck. Other characters were cool too specially Ariel. I liked her.

overall it was interesting, a bit slow in the beginning though.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Deadly Masks . . .

Morgan Winters is a witch who will find herself dealing with a really strange issue… or issues if you count the flying pig... during the Midwinter Festival in Hollowbeck when a mask not only doesn’t come off, but it also does something magical where the wearers change and forget who they are. Morgan first becomes aware of the problem when a masked witch is found dead. What happened? And oddly enough, those around the deceased witch can’t recall the death at all! And it doesn’t stop there as those masks seem to continue taking over whoever puts one on! The wearers can’t remember their own identity. Both Morgan and Ruiner take ownership of investigating the problem to see who is doing this. And even Morgan may be at risk! Even those witches who can temporarily hold off the mask’s apparent curse can eventually succumb to it. Can Morgan and Ruiner (temporarily? a cat) find who is responsible and stop this from destroying the entire town?

[Marie Cordalis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Chaotic Outing!

I've been anxiously waiting for this, the fourth Hollowbeck adventure. And it doesn't disappoint. Hollowbeck is a very quirky little village just a tad left of reality. A village where every possible permutation of magic is not only possible but an every day occasion. Morgan and Ruiner are still stuck trying to find a way to fix his "problem" and Morgan is still trying to adapt to her new role of Town Witch. Something she knows nothing about. As usual nothing goes smoothly in Hollowbeck for long, only this time when chaos breaks out it isn't Ruiners fault (I mean there's a reason Morgan calls him Ruiner after all) and the race is on to find the culprit for the deeply disturbing and creepy masks. Oh, did I forget to mention the solstice celebration? Buckle up its another bumpy ride in Hollowbeck! I'll just be over here waiting for the next one😉

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lord!

I love these books.

The Midwinter festival, that this year seems to be, well, more!

Masks are given to people, that has an odd effect on the wearer!

Even the resident ghost gets one 🤔🤔 and the Vampire policeman????

Witches soon start dropping...to a deep sleep!?!?!?

Can Morgan and Ruiner help right it?

Or will she lose the Grimoire for good?

Brilliant writing and I would like an invitation to move into Hollowbeck, please 😁

[Cozy Reader Lady · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Witchfest (The Hollowbeck Paranormal Cozy Mysteries #4)" by Amelia Ash and Kim M. Watt is set at the Winter Solstice. Hollowbeck is celebrating the end of the long nights of darkness and returning of the light with a Midwinter Festival and a couple of parties. One being the annual Masquerade Ball that everyone gets a special mask for.

Unfortunately, things seem to go extra odd with the masks and everyone is taking their mask personas too seriously. Morgan gets forced into solving this one pretty much on her own and starts to work out a little bit of her magic in the process. In the end they're still no closer to figuring out how to reverse the cat curse on her bother but Morgan may be more confident in her own abilities.

[Penny · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started this one having only read the one before, but since that one was just great without the books before it, it seemed fine. While it seems like this one has more information, it was still fine to read without the ones before. Morgan finds herself in a pickle when solstice masks seem to change everyone with some kind of magic, and she needs the help of everyone who can resist them. Too bad it seems no one can resist for long. This one could have been pared down a little, but other than that, it was a wild and interesting ride to the end…oh, and that ending. LOL! Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.

[Jonathan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This was my first time reading from the author. I didn't like the characters in the book or enjoy the pacing of it. But the world the author built was very imaginative. Which is why I gave its rating. There was nothing wrong with the writing either.

[Marie A · Rating 3 out of 5]

Once again, I find myself reading a book that is part of a series, but does that really surprise anyone? I think I’m more surprised when I am lucky enough to start a new series at the beginning. Anyway, that is not why you are here. You are here for a review, more specifically, my thoughts on the book. If you are looking for spoilers, they are not my thing.

Now, have you read the synopsis? Great! Let’s get into it.

Now, there is a table of contents. While I appreciate it, do yourself a favor and skip it. The element of surprise for each chapter is worth it.

This is the first book I’ve read by these two others. Don’t get me wrong, it was entertaining but more in the way of an older, slapstick comedy kind of way. I was intrigued by the synopsis, and I have to admit, the beginning of the book was entertaining and even had me chuckling. A ghost for a mayor? The general escapades going on? Those I was hoping for.

As I continued on with the book, the fourth in this series, I guess I was just getting frustrated that the female main character, who is supposed to be the “town witch”, still doubts herself so much. Most everyone has imposter syndrome now and again, but it would be nice to see her gaining some confidence.

I was also sad for her when she compared her shop to a “proper witch” supplier at the event. From what I can tell, she seemed surprised that her shop carried some of the things that she saw in the tent. It seems like she has had a busy few months, but I would think familiarizing herself with inventory, instead of complaining about the dust would be kind of important.

I am sure that merging two writing styles can be a learning experience.

Now, the world building itself is rich and there is no shortage of characters or their idiosyncrasies. I found it funny that the four women in the town who had a certain air about them, well let’s just say their neighborhood was definitely unique.

I hope the FMC finds her confidence, her brother finds an anti-curse and the whole town can survive their mother visiting.
I would like to thank the authors, Sterling & Stone Publishing and NetGalley for a copy of this book. My review is voluntary and all opinions are my own. As always, happy reading!

Thank the authors, the publisher Sterling & Stone and NetGalley for a copy of this book. My review is voluntary and as always all opinions are my own. Happy reading!

[Tony Green · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoy the Hollowbeck paranormal mysteries. The very idea that there are magical towns concealed from the outside world with their own rules and very much their own way of living is a brilliant concept. Morgan, through no fault of her own, is the town witch. The fact that she has no experience as a witch and was not even aware of the existence of such magical places until being dragged to Hollowbeck by her snarky brother Ruiner (currently going through life as a cat!) also does not help.
In this latest book, the town is preparing itself for the midwinter festival. As a relatively recent resident of Hollowbeck, this will be Morgan's first such festival, so she's not quite sure what to expect. If it was up to her, she would prefer to stay indoors for a few days, but as the town witch, she does have an official function.
As usual, the citizens of Hollowbeck can't avoid an oppertunity to join in with a party, and, true to form, it soon gets out of hand! The mask seller, Alaric, provides everyone with a mask for the festival. the only thing is that the masks ensure that peoples behaviour is even more extreme than normal.
Not normally a problem, at the end of the festival, the masks come off,and everyone goes back to normal. Unfortunately, something is wrong with the masks, and they are stuck on!
Somehow , Morgan has to find a way to sort out this out before it's too late and lasting damage has been done.
Well written book, kept me interested right up to the end.

[Elle (Lost in Wonderland) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Morgan and co. have yet another mystery to solve. This time the town is celebrating its winter solstice, a grand affair accompanied with extravagant masks and cocktail parties. Unfortunately, the masks seem to be ever so slightly possessed and making the townsfolk do weird and wonderful things. Not to mention, if you wear them too long , they become facehuggers and removing them is impossible.

This series has become a long standing favourite. This book however just didn’t quite do it for me. I didn’t find the mystery as intriguing as previous books and the villain was quite easy to spot. Whereas books prior had me guessing until the end. Some of my favourite side characters were out of action due to the masks so they featured either very little or completely out of character as a side effect. We also didn’t seem to progress any further in the main plot ie. getting Ruiner back into his human form (although I do adore fluffy Ruiner). I do worry at this rate poor Ruiner is never going to be a ‘real boy’ again. That being said, the series still retains all the quirks and whimsy that make Hollowbeck a fantastic series as a whole.

** I received a complimentary copy of this book from Sterling & Stone via Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Old Time Tales · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Horror is the removal of masks.”
― Robert Bloch

What happens when you can't remove the mask? When the part of you that you hide is on open display for all to see and you can't hide it, no matter how hard you try?

For some, this may be good. Others, not so good. But for everyone in Hollowbeck it is dangerous.

Once again Morgan is in trouble. She has no idea who to trust. And those she tries to trust end up in a coma like dream state.

It is the Winter Solstice in Hollowbeck, Morgan's first, and, of course, she is uncomfortable not knowing or understanding what is going on. And when the bodies start showing up she had better figure something out quick.

This was my favorite Hollowbeck story so far. Morgan is finally beginning to become a little more self confident and is able to get things done on her own. She is still always reacting, rather than being proactive, but at least her reactions manage to get the job done.

Oh yeah! We met a new character that I hope we see more of in the future. Booper the Ghost Dog was the most fun I've had in the series yet. Ash, if you read your reviews, we want more Booper!

Y'all take care, and keep reading! Cheers!

[Susan Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Morgan is still adjusting to her new life as the primary witch in Hollowbeck and her brother, now turned into a cat makes more trouble than he helps. But Morgan is going to have to rally all her resources because something bad is happening and it is only going to get worse. Never one for socializing, she talked into attending a masked ball. The masks are for fun but someone has tinkered with them and not only can they not be removed, they turn the wearer into something without boundaries. And with some of the characters around Hollowbeck, that can be a truly dangerous thing. But when the mask is removed, the person who wore it recalls nothing so trying to convince them something is wrong is a desperate and frustrating experience.

But Morgan is nothing if not inventive and she is finally able to trace the shenanigans to the person who is causing the mayhem. It is not going to be a question of just asking nicely. She is going to have to dig into herself and her grimoire to figure out a solution. I’ve become fond of this series and always look forward to the next book. Five purrs and two paws up.

[Jill Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE this series! Ash and Watt have done such a fabulous job crafting a world that is clever and fun and that feels wholly original even in a genre that is crowded to near overflowing with cozy world-within-the-world series books... I love the characters, who offer a delicious blend of tropes and personalities that are engaging and entertaining and continue to develop in ways that feel organic and relatable. The plots are mayhem-filled yet still plausible (within the confines of their universe, anyway) and involve complex scenarios that hold your attention without requiring so much attention to detail that you find yourself lost in it.

I am dying to find out Ruiner's secret and love that each book teases at its edges but never reveals anything - yet does it in a way that I find intriguing instead of frustrating. It's a difficult thing, leaving readers on the edge of their seats without frustrating them by repeatedly leading up but never revealing anything, and the women do a fabulous job with it. I already can't wait to see where this book's cliffhanging ending will go!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my obligation-free review copy.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Witchfest is the 4th book in the Hollowbeck Series that I adore! Set in a magical english town that only shows itself to those it chooses, we follow new town witch Morgan as she navigates this new world. The characters are so rich and layered that every book in the series unwraps a little bit more, while still keeping you a little in the dark so you keep coming back.

Morgan and her "power" is a big part of this story. Her self doubt, but natural abilities confuse everyone. She knows that things aren't right at the solstice festival and the creepy masks everyone is wearing to it, but everyone else seems fine with it. She tries to get to the bottom of why witches are being attacked and who is sabotaging the masks, while trying to resist her own masks allure.
Ruinier is her trusty companion, immune to the magical effects, helping her keep the town, her grimoire and herself safe.

Lots of amazing action and adventure. I love this dark but cozy world. I can't wait for book 5!

[Lj · Rating 5 out of 5]

Witchfest sees Morgan and friends tackling problems at an annual winter solstice festival. Unlike the last two books, this one is set entirely in the town of Hollowbeck (pocket dimensions and/or voids and limbo excluded) which allows the colourful townspeople to take on major roles and lets the eccentricities of the town really shine with all it's eclectic charm. There is the usual chaos and calamity expected in these books. It's a charming, comfortable adventure with lots of humour and heart and a great deal of fun to read.

I received a free ARC and offer an honest review.

[Denice Langley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfect paranormal cozy. Book #4 in the series finds the community of Hollowbeck planning their annual solstice masked party. But since it's Hollowbeck, we know nothing is going to go the way it's planned. This community is full of old friends that Amelia Ash and Kim M Watt have developed into true characters who just happen to have a little magic. Cozy is the perfect description for this series. Not only do you read each book with enjoyment, you look forward to the next book when we visit again.

[Martine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Morgan, her friends and snarky Ruiner are back to solve a crime. I love this paranormal town Hollowbeck and it's magical inhabitants. To be honest I enjoyed this book a little less than the previous ones but it still is a good story. I recommend this series. If you like magical/paranormal things then you'll enjoy it.
I received an advance review copy via NetGalley/Sterling & Stone and I'm leaving a voluntary and honest review.

[Mahnoor Lasania · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been anxiously waiting for the fourth Hollowbeck adventure, and it doesn't disappoint! This was my favorite Hollowbeck story so far. Morgan is finally beginning to become a little more self-confident and can get things done on her own. She is still always reacting, rather than being proactive, but at least her reactions manage to get the job done.

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this series is genial: witty, solid, compelling, and highly entertaining.
Morgan, Ruiner and the quirky inhanbitants of Hollowbeck are great and the solid plots, the elements of horror and urban fantasy, make it unputdownable.
I can't wait to read the next, I loved this one
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

[Jean · Rating 4 out of 5]

Probably my favourite so far, more chick-witch-lit with likeable characters and a pulsating storyline. My only hope is that the heroine finds her magic in the next book, as that particular storyline is wearing a little thin. However, the setup for the next in the series looks like a source of much merriment, so I’m looking forward to that!

[LittleRead · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have enjoyed this series for quite a while, but lately I find that it’s hard to read the stories as I had in the beginning. They seem to drag on more. I love the characters, especially Ruiner, but gosh, it takes too much effort these days.

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another entertaining tale involving Morgan (possibly the dimmest witch) her fluffy brother and the eccentric inhabitants of Hollowbeck some of whom are not magical.

[Gina King · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book yet in this series!

Totally consumed from page one. Great story line and characters. Only flaw was being able to guess the bad guy. But didn't matter! Highly recommend.

[Phyllis Mann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book

I liked this book. I like how Morgan a lets send to figure out what is going on. It was also interesting that it was the wrong person causing havoc.