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Sage Springs #2
Spirits and Spells
Ivy LaRue didn’t intend on being happy when she moved to Sage Springs, Mo., but that’s exactly what happened. First, Eliza and Lexi wiggled in through the cracks of her carefully constructed defensive walls. Now her best friend, a spirit, is in the flesh thanks to mysterious circumstances. And Ivy can’t help but notice it’s some mighty fine flesh, which just adds another layer of complication to her life.
With only days to find a cure to keep her friend in human form, Ivy attempts to find the town's magical spring to save his life. While doing so, however, she must battle an unseen spirit who seems determined to make Ivy's life as difficult as possible. Assistance comes from unlikely places as she faces her past to attain the future she never thought she wanted.
Casting spells, dodging love and forming friendships soon make this snarky witch realize life is much more interesting than she ever imagined it could be.
With only days to find a cure to keep her friend in human form, Ivy attempts to find the town's magical spring to save his life. While doing so, however, she must battle an unseen spirit who seems determined to make Ivy's life as difficult as possible. Assistance comes from unlikely places as she faces her past to attain the future she never thought she wanted.
Casting spells, dodging love and forming friendships soon make this snarky witch realize life is much more interesting than she ever imagined it could be.
289 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 9, 2014
83 people want to read
About the author
Hollie Westring
12 books37 followersHollie Westring is the author of "Whispers and Wishes," "Spirits and Spells," and "Cinnamon and Sunshine."
Hollie has been a freelance book editor since 2011, which keeps her busy and happy. When not working or reading, Hollie is most likely in the kitchen baking.
Hollie has been a freelance book editor since 2011, which keeps her busy and happy. When not working or reading, Hollie is most likely in the kitchen baking.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
October 6, 2014
5+++ Captivating stars
Falling in love and taking a chance.
So you know how when you're reading a good book and get that goofy grin on your face because what you're reading is just so good? Or when you see a sappy love movie and have those little butterflies in your belly because you know in your heart that these two people should be together and you really truly are rooting for them? Well that is how it is with Ivy and Oliver, I found myself reading with the biggest grin on my face. I laughed out loud to myself several times.
In this story we are introduced to Ivy and Oliver. Ivy is a harda** chick who doesn't take any crap from anybody. She did however make friends with Oliver when she moved to Sage Springs and then Eliza and Lexi. Oliver now, he isn't your typical good looking guy no not at all. Oliver is the kindest sweetest guy to Ivy always looking out for her. He knows she needs someone to challenge her, someone who won't back down from her. Did I mention Oliver here is the resident ghost of Cedar Inn? Well how did I forget to tell you that? Being that I love a good ghost story. Anyway this guy here Oliver even in ghost form made me ...well I am just gonna say it….I developed a crush on Oliver. It’s not about his looks either. It’s his genuine interest in Ivy and her happiness. It's the way he cares for her, the way he looks at her and the way he speaks with her. Oliver loves Ivy and I think her feelings for him are clear as well but Oliver here is a ghost how would this work out for Ivy and him?
Now of course this isn't going to be easy, he is a ghost she is a witch (a powerful one too) who doesn’t like to tap into her magic. Ivy’s birthday is coming and so is The May Party she doesn’t want a party but Lexi is insisting that she celebrate her birthday she has even reached out to Ivy’s mom and her friend Cruz. This is where the twists and turns begin as the The May Party draws near drama ensues.
There are so many twists and turns to this story that I didn’t even see coming. So many great characters entwined with each other, I can't tell you all of them because this review in itself would be a book lol. This story is just as good as the first book with its suspense, drama, love and friendships. The spirits and all the characters work so well you tend to forget that they are actually spirits. This is definitely a story to be read! Flows as well as the first book and I am so excited to read the next book. What will happen with Oliver? Will it ever work for Ivy and Oliver? What major drama is coming? Will Ivy connect with her father finally?
Falling in love and taking a chance.
So you know how when you're reading a good book and get that goofy grin on your face because what you're reading is just so good? Or when you see a sappy love movie and have those little butterflies in your belly because you know in your heart that these two people should be together and you really truly are rooting for them? Well that is how it is with Ivy and Oliver, I found myself reading with the biggest grin on my face. I laughed out loud to myself several times.
In this story we are introduced to Ivy and Oliver. Ivy is a harda** chick who doesn't take any crap from anybody. She did however make friends with Oliver when she moved to Sage Springs and then Eliza and Lexi. Oliver now, he isn't your typical good looking guy no not at all. Oliver is the kindest sweetest guy to Ivy always looking out for her. He knows she needs someone to challenge her, someone who won't back down from her. Did I mention Oliver here is the resident ghost of Cedar Inn? Well how did I forget to tell you that? Being that I love a good ghost story. Anyway this guy here Oliver even in ghost form made me ...well I am just gonna say it….I developed a crush on Oliver. It’s not about his looks either. It’s his genuine interest in Ivy and her happiness. It's the way he cares for her, the way he looks at her and the way he speaks with her. Oliver loves Ivy and I think her feelings for him are clear as well but Oliver here is a ghost how would this work out for Ivy and him?
Now of course this isn't going to be easy, he is a ghost she is a witch (a powerful one too) who doesn’t like to tap into her magic. Ivy’s birthday is coming and so is The May Party she doesn’t want a party but Lexi is insisting that she celebrate her birthday she has even reached out to Ivy’s mom and her friend Cruz. This is where the twists and turns begin as the The May Party draws near drama ensues.
There are so many twists and turns to this story that I didn’t even see coming. So many great characters entwined with each other, I can't tell you all of them because this review in itself would be a book lol. This story is just as good as the first book with its suspense, drama, love and friendships. The spirits and all the characters work so well you tend to forget that they are actually spirits. This is definitely a story to be read! Flows as well as the first book and I am so excited to read the next book. What will happen with Oliver? Will it ever work for Ivy and Oliver? What major drama is coming? Will Ivy connect with her father finally?
November 23, 2014
Ivy LaRue didn’t intend on being happy when she moved to Sage Springs, Mo., but that’s exactly what happened. First, Eliza and Lexi wiggled in through the cracks of her carefully constructed defensive walls. Now her best friend, a spirit, is in the flesh thanks to mysterious circumstances. And Ivy can’t help but notice it’s some mighty fine flesh, which just adds another layer of complication to her life.
With only days to find a cure to keep her friend in human form, Ivy attempts to find the town's magical spring to save his life. While doing so, however, she must battle an unseen spirit who seems determined to make Ivy's life as difficult as possible. Assistance comes from unlikely places as she faces her past to attain the future she never thought she wanted.
Casting spells, dodging love and forming friendships soon make this snarky witch realize life is much more interesting than she ever imagined it could be.
*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
This is the second book in the Sage Springs series and I do believe it is my favorite!! Spirits and Spells had a little more mystery than Whispers & Wishes but I really loved it! I love the relationship between Ivy & Oliver! They are one of my all time favorite couples!!
After I read the first book I was wondering about Olivers story and I'm so glad I got to know it! It was different that what I thought! I don't want to give any spoilers.
I love Ivy! I love her humor, her attitude.. just everything! I love the names of all of her candles! I love how even though its Ivy's story we still get to see Eliza & Lexi.
I love the world that Hollie creates! I'd love to visit this little town! I think I had a smile on my face the whole time I was reading it! Especially the scenes with Ivy & Oliver.. I was like aww :) So happy for both of them!
I love how the book ended!!
Hollie is definitely one of my favorite authors! After the first few pages of Whispers & Wishes I knew I was hooked to this series!!
With only days to find a cure to keep her friend in human form, Ivy attempts to find the town's magical spring to save his life. While doing so, however, she must battle an unseen spirit who seems determined to make Ivy's life as difficult as possible. Assistance comes from unlikely places as she faces her past to attain the future she never thought she wanted.
Casting spells, dodging love and forming friendships soon make this snarky witch realize life is much more interesting than she ever imagined it could be.
*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
This is the second book in the Sage Springs series and I do believe it is my favorite!! Spirits and Spells had a little more mystery than Whispers & Wishes but I really loved it! I love the relationship between Ivy & Oliver! They are one of my all time favorite couples!!
After I read the first book I was wondering about Olivers story and I'm so glad I got to know it! It was different that what I thought! I don't want to give any spoilers.
I love Ivy! I love her humor, her attitude.. just everything! I love the names of all of her candles! I love how even though its Ivy's story we still get to see Eliza & Lexi.
I love the world that Hollie creates! I'd love to visit this little town! I think I had a smile on my face the whole time I was reading it! Especially the scenes with Ivy & Oliver.. I was like aww :) So happy for both of them!
I love how the book ended!!
Hollie is definitely one of my favorite authors! After the first few pages of Whispers & Wishes I knew I was hooked to this series!!
April 21, 2014
To see my full review:
http://wp.me/p1jhaj-52l
After reading Hollie Westring’s debut novel, Whispers and Wishes, I was sold on the beautiful and haunting town of Sage Springs. With her quirky characters, charming townsfolk, and overall laid back atmosphere, Westring easily draws readers into Sage Springs, throwing in twists and turns where we’d least expect it.
Whereas Whispers and Wishes focuses on the character of Eliza, Spirits and Spells gives readers a more in-depth look at Eliza’s spunky sidekick, Ivy LaRue, a young woman running from both past and present. Bedding down in the illustrious Sage Springs, with her candle business booming and the magical realm just beneath her fingertips, Ivy’s story drew me in right away, especially as I see a bit of myself in her. A little stand-offish and full of snark, Ivy’s cover for her heart of gold, she continually blames herself, closing doors on relationships before one can say “happily ever after.” But when a dark spell begins to threaten those she loves, Ivy really begins to come into herself, and there is no limit on surprises that Westring throws at readers as this sweet love story unfolds.
Oliver is, of course, to die for... He completes Ivy in a way no else ever has, and I just loved their back and forth quips throughout the novel. Hilarity ensues as the novel progresses, and Ivy’s strong kick-butt personality, along with Eliza’s pragmatism, Lexi’s cheer, and Oliver’s swoonworthyness will make this a novel you won’t soon forget. With a dash of mystery, romance, and magic, this novel is sure to be your perfect afternoon read.
http://wp.me/p1jhaj-52l
After reading Hollie Westring’s debut novel, Whispers and Wishes, I was sold on the beautiful and haunting town of Sage Springs. With her quirky characters, charming townsfolk, and overall laid back atmosphere, Westring easily draws readers into Sage Springs, throwing in twists and turns where we’d least expect it.
Whereas Whispers and Wishes focuses on the character of Eliza, Spirits and Spells gives readers a more in-depth look at Eliza’s spunky sidekick, Ivy LaRue, a young woman running from both past and present. Bedding down in the illustrious Sage Springs, with her candle business booming and the magical realm just beneath her fingertips, Ivy’s story drew me in right away, especially as I see a bit of myself in her. A little stand-offish and full of snark, Ivy’s cover for her heart of gold, she continually blames herself, closing doors on relationships before one can say “happily ever after.” But when a dark spell begins to threaten those she loves, Ivy really begins to come into herself, and there is no limit on surprises that Westring throws at readers as this sweet love story unfolds.
Oliver is, of course, to die for... He completes Ivy in a way no else ever has, and I just loved their back and forth quips throughout the novel. Hilarity ensues as the novel progresses, and Ivy’s strong kick-butt personality, along with Eliza’s pragmatism, Lexi’s cheer, and Oliver’s swoonworthyness will make this a novel you won’t soon forget. With a dash of mystery, romance, and magic, this novel is sure to be your perfect afternoon read.
October 26, 2014
Awesome story! This one had a bit more mystery that book one in the series and I loved it. I also love the new characters introduced, like Cruz and Ivy's mom, Mara. There was a bit of a twist when it came to Ivy's mom that I didn't see coming and it was a bit on the sad side but nothing that will make you cry or anything. When it came to Oliver and Ivy I had already fallen in love with both characters since book one so this one just made me fall in love with them even more. I loved their story, both characters so different yet perfect fro each other, I have to admit that I didn't think they were going to be the couple in book 2, I just didn't see it because they are so different but I am so glad the author made them fall in love. The friendships in the story with all 3 (Eliza, Lexi and Ivy) were just as good as in book one but because 6 months have passed they have become even tighter. The story had many funny parts and made me laugh often. With many twists to the story and all the mystery this one might be my fave in the series so far.
Well written, I love the authors writing style.
Super awesome ending to the story, loved how the author ended this one. Best HEA in the series so far. Super romantic!
Can't wait to read book 3.
Well written, I love the authors writing style.
Super awesome ending to the story, loved how the author ended this one. Best HEA in the series so far. Super romantic!
Can't wait to read book 3.
April 29, 2014
Received an author copy.
I loved Whispers & Wishes (Sage Springs #1) so jumped at the chance to read this, I enjoy a little bit of magic in my stories and this certainly has that supernatural element mixed in with Witches & Ghosts......
Ivy is the main character this time, a Witch who isn't practicing apart from the odd candle which has a little spell that she sells at her new shop, she is sassy, wise cracking and doesn't let people get close, but Oliver does, he becomes firm friends and I am so glad we get to know more from these pair.
I freaking loved this. I can't say too much as it will give things away, all I will say is you do need to read book one to get the jist of the town and what people can do and all the characters.
Hollie made me laugh, swoon and even shed a tear in this one. ahhhhh way to melt a icy girls heart ;-)
Really looking forward to Cinnamon and Sunshine (Sage Springs #3)
I loved Whispers & Wishes (Sage Springs #1) so jumped at the chance to read this, I enjoy a little bit of magic in my stories and this certainly has that supernatural element mixed in with Witches & Ghosts......
Ivy is the main character this time, a Witch who isn't practicing apart from the odd candle which has a little spell that she sells at her new shop, she is sassy, wise cracking and doesn't let people get close, but Oliver does, he becomes firm friends and I am so glad we get to know more from these pair.
I freaking loved this. I can't say too much as it will give things away, all I will say is you do need to read book one to get the jist of the town and what people can do and all the characters.
Hollie made me laugh, swoon and even shed a tear in this one. ahhhhh way to melt a icy girls heart ;-)
Really looking forward to Cinnamon and Sunshine (Sage Springs #3)
July 15, 2014
What a fun continuation of the Sage Springs Series! I enjoy all the characters, but Ivy is my favorite I think. She started out 'prickly' and seemed to have a big NO TRESPASSING sign up at all times, but cracks have been showing in that veneer and I just love that. She is the focus of this book and it's definitely an interesting story.
Want a fun, lighthearted, but quirk read? This is the book and series for you! There is love, heartache, lots of friendship, good old fashioned values and lots of quirkiness! I purchased the first book, Whispers and Wishes and as soon as I finished it, I was here on Amazon purchasing this one. The only thing that mad me sad was that book #3 wasn't yet published! *hint to Hollie Westring*
You will NOT go wrong with this series. The author gives the reader very well rounded characters that feel like people you'd meet down on Main St. at the diner. That's my kind of book ~ try it, I think you'll be glad you did.
Want a fun, lighthearted, but quirk read? This is the book and series for you! There is love, heartache, lots of friendship, good old fashioned values and lots of quirkiness! I purchased the first book, Whispers and Wishes and as soon as I finished it, I was here on Amazon purchasing this one. The only thing that mad me sad was that book #3 wasn't yet published! *hint to Hollie Westring*
You will NOT go wrong with this series. The author gives the reader very well rounded characters that feel like people you'd meet down on Main St. at the diner. That's my kind of book ~ try it, I think you'll be glad you did.
July 21, 2014
This second novel in the Sage Springs series starts a little more smoothly than the first.
Enjoyable but not as emotional as Eliza's story. We hear of secrets Ivy is hiding, but we knew she was not as open as the other two girls. Her life to this point was not as happy.
Sage Springs has been her first real chance at a place to call home.
We get more than half way through the story when WHAM - everything starts to happen.
Our emotions are frayed a bit when we don't know if beloved character Oliver will be with us at the end of the book. We do get to see the "better" side of some of the people presented as evil in Eliza's story.
There were a few things I wish had gone differently, but I am sure as this series progresses I will understand Ms Westring had a broader view and wrote events in the way they needed to turn out.
I anxiously await book three, Lexi's story.
Enjoyable but not as emotional as Eliza's story. We hear of secrets Ivy is hiding, but we knew she was not as open as the other two girls. Her life to this point was not as happy.
Sage Springs has been her first real chance at a place to call home.
We get more than half way through the story when WHAM - everything starts to happen.
Our emotions are frayed a bit when we don't know if beloved character Oliver will be with us at the end of the book. We do get to see the "better" side of some of the people presented as evil in Eliza's story.
There were a few things I wish had gone differently, but I am sure as this series progresses I will understand Ms Westring had a broader view and wrote events in the way they needed to turn out.
I anxiously await book three, Lexi's story.
July 20, 2015
I absolutely adore the is series by Holly Westring! I seriously had a hard time putting this one down because it was about my favorite character Ivy. I love the little paranormal twist Ms. Westring brings to the books and how Sage Srpings is some place I want to live! The characters are all back from the first one but this time, it is Ivy's story we get to find out more about. The added bonus...more about the ghost Oliver and the twist that he brings to the story....I won't tell but it made me want to know an Oliver ghost of my own! Pick up this series today...you won't regret it! On to book number 3 for me...which is Lexi's story!
December 5, 2015
I was drawn to Ivy's sarcastic wit in book one and was really excited to read book two to find out more about the elusive candle maker. And find out I did! I have never read another story like Ivy's, and that is part of why I loved this story and this series so much. It's hard to say much more without giving away information - so know that the storyline is tight and the character arcs continue into this book from book 1.
The paranormal aspects are more pronounced in this book, and I thought they really enhanced the story in a meaningful (and not totally unbelievable) way.
Highly recommend this book and series!
The paranormal aspects are more pronounced in this book, and I thought they really enhanced the story in a meaningful (and not totally unbelievable) way.
Highly recommend this book and series!
April 25, 2014
Definitely didn’t let me down…
I really liked the first book in the series and was surprised when I liked this book even more! Ivy is a great character that I absolutely fell in love with. Her rough exterior is such a contradiction to the love and devotion she has for the people she cares about the most. I don’t want to give anything away but I was so hoping that what happened…happened! This book definitely had me up late because I didn’t want to put it down. I was SOOO happy when I got to the end!! Amazing job Hollie and I cannot wait to see what happens in the last book!!!
I really liked the first book in the series and was surprised when I liked this book even more! Ivy is a great character that I absolutely fell in love with. Her rough exterior is such a contradiction to the love and devotion she has for the people she cares about the most. I don’t want to give anything away but I was so hoping that what happened…happened! This book definitely had me up late because I didn’t want to put it down. I was SOOO happy when I got to the end!! Amazing job Hollie and I cannot wait to see what happens in the last book!!!
June 4, 2014
OMG I loved this book. I read it a good many weeks (maybe even a few months) ago and totally forgot to put up a review for it. Let me tell you what though, I could read this series over and over again. It is so good! I love everything about the book, although my favorite is "Wicks before Pricks" Nope I will not elaborate because you really really need to read this awesome book. (Note: This is book 2 in the Sage Springs Saga so read book 1 Whispers and Wishes first or you will have missed so much.)
Note to author: You ROCK!!!! Can't wait to read more! Looking forward to book 3
Note to author: You ROCK!!!! Can't wait to read more! Looking forward to book 3
December 20, 2014
I had never read anything by Hollie Westring before, and I am happy to say that I really like her writing. Ivy is snarky to protect herself, as we all have some type of protective shield.
I absolutely loved the way Ms. Westring brought everything together
for the closing of the book.... sorry but I won't spill the beans on the ending....LOL
In closing I have to say, with as many books as I read in a week, and
trust me it is ALOT, Ms. Westring goes on my list of fav authors.
Please give this book a read, it is a stand alone in the series, now I HAVE to
read book one.
I absolutely loved the way Ms. Westring brought everything together
for the closing of the book.... sorry but I won't spill the beans on the ending....LOL
In closing I have to say, with as many books as I read in a week, and
trust me it is ALOT, Ms. Westring goes on my list of fav authors.
Please give this book a read, it is a stand alone in the series, now I HAVE to
read book one.
July 23, 2014
Ready for Book 3!
First off..I need a Go Fig Yourself candle. I fell in love with Ivy's story! There were secrets that could break friendships and wishes that could break hearts! We are given the opportunity to see inside of the doom and gloom witch, Ivy (..at least that's how she wants herself portrayed at all times). When in doubt , you can always count on a spirit to cheer you up..or a friend's good food and company. Read her story and join me in happily waiting for Cinnamon and Sunshine in January!
First off..I need a Go Fig Yourself candle. I fell in love with Ivy's story! There were secrets that could break friendships and wishes that could break hearts! We are given the opportunity to see inside of the doom and gloom witch, Ivy (..at least that's how she wants herself portrayed at all times). When in doubt , you can always count on a spirit to cheer you up..or a friend's good food and company. Read her story and join me in happily waiting for Cinnamon and Sunshine in January!
September 20, 2014
So glad that book 2 in the series was Ivy's story. Ivy gives off a bad girl, snarky attitude thru the first book and most of this one. You hope that deep down she is really nice. She has a candle store called "Wicks Before Pricks" and in this story we learn more of Ivy, her past and why she would name her store that. I lovedIvy and her snarky attitude, she was funny, caring a and easy to love. If you've read the first book you really need to read Ivy's story, it's full of humor intrigue and some romance.
October 15, 2018
Brilliant second book of the series.
Loved the continuation and that the characters from the first book were very much evident in this book also. This is Ivy's story and it lets us discover why she's so guarded and unwilling to let people in. As the book progresses, Ivy mellows slightly but doesn't lose any of her feistyness or her sharp tongue!!
Another easy read with plenty of twist and turns to keep you entertained. Looking forward to number 3.
Loved the continuation and that the characters from the first book were very much evident in this book also. This is Ivy's story and it lets us discover why she's so guarded and unwilling to let people in. As the book progresses, Ivy mellows slightly but doesn't lose any of her feistyness or her sharp tongue!!
Another easy read with plenty of twist and turns to keep you entertained. Looking forward to number 3.
December 5, 2014
I really liked this book. The story was interesting and the characters were wonderful. Falling in love with a spirit makes things both interesting and complicated. I had several "smile" moments while I was reading as well as a few anxious moments. This is a great young adult book and I highly recommend it. This book does not end with a cliff hanger.
July 24, 2015
I already was in love with this series, and even in book one of the series, Ivy and Oliver were my favorite characters. This book did NOT disappoint, it was great. There were a few times I was thinking "Oh no, is this going to end the way I think it is????" but it just added to the enjoyment of the 'what if'. On to book three!
August 26, 2014
Wow! I, seriously, could not put this book down! I absolutely love Ivy's character. Her quick wit and charm suck me into the story. Hollie creates such an enchanting setting. You want to jump right into the pages of the book and experience it for yourself! A+!
July 21, 2014
Ivy is a little feisty to say the least. This book is filled with mystery, lvd, humor, and lots of sarcasm! A great 2nd book to the Sage Spring Series.
March 13, 2015
Hollie has done it again. Her books are filled with love. They are also filled with alot of action in the story. I really hope you will give her series a try. You won't be disappointed.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews