The Crone of Burning Shadows: Myrtlewood Crones 6

by Iris Beaglehole

Delia Spark has come a long way from setting tea towels on fire by accident...

Once a theatre director going through a disasterous divorce, she's now a fully fledged fire witch, one of the four Myrtlewood Crones, having recovered her family grimoire and claimed the fire dragon's egg.

But there's no time for curtain calls. The Order of the Crimson is marching on the Veiled Sisterhood's mountain stronghold, led by a vessel of darkness who once was her ex-husband. The Sisterhood's crystal has become a prison, draining the life from those meant to protect it. And the four Crones must finally claim the full power they were born to wield to stop the convergence that has been spoken of in ancient myth for generations.

Fire doesn't just destroy. It transforms. And Delia is done hiding in the wings.

Expect dragons, demon cats, banter, and far too many cups of tea.

298 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 20, 2026

Reviews

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read all the books in her series Myrtlewood Mysteries, Myrtlewood Crones, and the first Burkenswood Mysteries book (Diary of An Unauthorized Vampire). I’ve enjoyed them all but I have to say this final Crones book is the best of them all. The final conflict that has been building finally reaches its exciting and satisfying conclusion. Lots of action, excitement, humor, compassion, relatable characters, and dragons. I read that Impractical Magic was the final book in the Myrtlewood Mysteries series, but the ending didn’t seem like it. If it was the final book, that conclusion was tepid. The Crone of Burning Shadows wrapped up the Crone series in no uncertain terms, but I was sorry that the series ended. I really enjoyed these characters and their relationships with each other. But we do have the Burkenswood Mysteries series to look forward to.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rounding up from 3.5. This might not be the easiest series to follow. For example, this particular book was written from 14 or 15 (one is a split personality sort of) different perspectives. Yes, 1-4. Despite the fact that Delia is the assigned FMC, there are pretty much a ton of primary characters and the storyline allows each to have a separate opinion and a voice in the story progression. That means some things are repetitive - as seen from the different viewpoints - and some feel either futuristic (what's coming) or a past reflection (what actually just happened). Some times it's a bit too much and sometimes it's very enlightening. That said, this is the finale. All things are pretty much wrapped up in pretty bows. I felt like a few things just weren't fully fleshed out but overall it seemed they were left to grow independently or together. I highly recommend reading this as a series and not a standalone. If you haven't gotten a good grasp of the characters together, it just won't make sense.

[Becky Brook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iris weaves a story of many elements (haha literally) together. Again, we see differing voices for an overarching view of the story. Not just our 4 main crones and their loves, but also Cedric healing, The Vessel's confidence, an Icelandic Seer, a daring rescue, Jerry breaking, the Sisterhood's conviction, the council's justice ... and even the demon cat's perspective. We had a great introduction to Sparky and I always love the grandchildren in this series.
This is a satisfying conclusion to the Crones of Myrtlewood series, its been great warching them learn & grow. Have fun reading!

[Penny · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t know this was the concluding title of the series when I started it, or I would have gone into this with a different mindset. Not that it’s a bad thing, just that I would have expected everything to end. LOL! Anyway, Delia and her friends notice that something is up with Declan, and with all kinds of trouble stirring, they need to find out what’s wrong with him, and fast, so they can defeat their enemies in full health. I really liked the unexpected “twist” in the final showdown. I enjoyed this series from beginning to end, and this is a fitting finale for it. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.

[Kim Vogel · Rating 5 out of 5]

an Ending Meant to Be

Ending a series is a difficult decision for an author. Do you stretch it out? Do you quickly cut it off? Too often I’ve been left either skipping pages or thinking “what the heck?”

Iris Beaglehole managed to wrap up the Crones series at just the right pace. Lots of loose ends to tie up but logical and appropriate. The reader leaves satisfied and feeling like all is right with the world of Myrtlewood. Very well done!

[Brianne Sisk · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love this Series!

I truly can’t speak highly enough about the magical world Iris Beaglehole has created. The friendships, the humor, the magic—everything about Myrtlewood has been such a joy to read. Watching the crones fully step into their power was the most satisfying finale.

I’ve also loved the other Myrtlewood stories with Rosemary and Athena just as much. If you enjoy cozy witchy fantasy, this whole world is worth reading. 🖤🧙‍♀️📚

[Joanne Gundling · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best for last.

When I started reading this book, I couldn't remember what happened before it was published. One never to reread a book, I just had to know what I forgot. Went back to book 1 and reread the whole series to catch up. So happy I did. Now that you don't have to wait until book 6 is written, (worth the wait), you must get started. You probably won't be able to put it down. Enjoy. You will travel with all the characters.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg, I loved this book! Everything resolved perfectly! And I’m so sad the Crones storyline is over. I loved the interplay of the Elementals, and I loved that the world was saved by crones! I can’t wait for more Myrtlewood books - I’ve adored the characters since I first met them in Accidental Magic!

[Rosemary Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an ending to this series

I've read all of Iris's books and enjoyed them all. But I have to say this one is, as far as I'm concerned, the BEST one. I always knew good would win out over evil, but the how made a fascinating tale. And the best part for me the heros are all older people with aches and pains, who fight anyway and win.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another book that keeps your interest

This book kept my interest from the beginning. I read these books before going to sleep as a way to relax. I have enjoyed all of the books in the series but this one was the best of all. I hope the author sill consider writing more in the series. Job well done!

[Jane Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Myrtlewood magic.

Great storyline, so great to read this one. A fitting and glorious episode of the Crone's adventires. I do so enjoy the stories that add magic, when protagonists are not just young and nubile but, oldish biddies with attitude.

[Sara-Louise Walker · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

This is definitely a comfort series for me. I love revisiting the world and its characters. This is not the most action-packed book in the series, but there are some fun and heart-warming moments.

[Imelda Entract · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant

The final triumphant part of Myrtlwood Crones, all absorbing and enjoyable don't hesitate these compelling stories are all available now. I intend to 're-read probably several times

[Karen wall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fab end to a very enjoyable series

I'm going to miss all the lovely characters and their adventures. I have enjoyed reading this series and would recommend to anyone who likes a good magical read.

[Susan Andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magnificent!

This is one of the best series I've ever read. It is beautifully written, the characters have depth, the plots are well developed, there is delightful humor, and the magic is glorious.

[fiona marlow · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Very sad day

So very sad this series has come to an end ! I'm really going to miss the Crones, their familiars, friends. Mephisto too if course ! Hope there's going to be some more adventures from Gillian !!

[Gwen Godfrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous Finale

This last in the Crones series is both gripping and heart warming. Iris Beaglehole’s writing is fresh and full of beautifully penned descriptive scenes that fire the imagination in a great way.

[janece collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful book!

The final book to a truly magical series,
is almost sad, like saying goodbye to a dear friend. This is joyful and lovely, like all of Iris's work. I'm so grateful that I stumbled upon her unforgettable novels and look forward to many more

[Tracy Morrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn't put it down

Whimsical without being floofy. Loved every page in every book. I'll miss hearing about the crones adventures and Myrtlewood magic.

[David Bryson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great conclusion, though it did build slowly it was worth the wait though I found myself slightly emotional at the ending but many threads came to a satisfying conclusion.

[Denee Frelich · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous adventure

I love all of Iris's books. I am ever so happy when another releases. Thanks for putting your work out into the world Iris. I enjoy it very much.

[Mel Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crones are wonderful

I have so loved this series of books, and,what an epic end to the story! Fabulous read, so exciting. Thank you iris.

[Sarah McUmber-House · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well wrapped up series.

A satisfying ending! I loved the characters and seeing their growth. I can honestly recommend you read the whole series.

[teresaemerson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crones

I really loved the characters in the myrtlwood series. I read them all, can't wait to read more of your books. Must read, very enjoyable.

[Phyllis Pickard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love your books

I’ve read all the myrtlewood books and loved them all. Wonderfully imaginative. I can’t wait to read what you write next.

[Cindy Tullis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love these books

I enjoyed all the Crone books! Iris does a fantastic job drawing you into the lives of the Comes and how they become a "chosen" family. Looking forward to more.