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Maddy Madrigal Mysteries #1
Barely Magic
Maddy Madrigal doesn’t believe she’s magic. If she were, she wouldn’t be busting her butt every day working for the Los Angeles Police Department’s Occult Affairs division, rounding up the strange and nasty entities unleashed by the last earthquake. At forty, if she were magic, she’d have less aggravation and more money.
So, when a security job opens up in an exclusive gated community, she takes it. Better money, great perks, and best of all, no entities.
At first, her problems are solved—the job’s great, she’s made new friends, and a good-looking man has caught her eye. She even has time to cook her favorite Mexican dishes while her new cat watches, though there’s something not quite right about him.
But the fancy neighborhood she was hired to protect hides a something supernatural is attacking the residents, and as Maddy tries to unravel the mystery, she discovers a secret of her she may have inherited magical abilities from her famous great aunt, a Mexican witch.
With monsters roaming the hilly streets, residents up in arms, and her boss breathing down her neck, Maddy must decide how far she’s willing to go to preserve her new life.
Barely Magic is the first book in Maddy Madrigal Mysteries, a new urban fantasy series from Debra Castaneda, the award-winning author of The Monsters of Chavez Ravine and the Dark Earth Rising series including The Root Witch and A Dark and Rising Tide.
So, when a security job opens up in an exclusive gated community, she takes it. Better money, great perks, and best of all, no entities.
At first, her problems are solved—the job’s great, she’s made new friends, and a good-looking man has caught her eye. She even has time to cook her favorite Mexican dishes while her new cat watches, though there’s something not quite right about him.
But the fancy neighborhood she was hired to protect hides a something supernatural is attacking the residents, and as Maddy tries to unravel the mystery, she discovers a secret of her she may have inherited magical abilities from her famous great aunt, a Mexican witch.
With monsters roaming the hilly streets, residents up in arms, and her boss breathing down her neck, Maddy must decide how far she’s willing to go to preserve her new life.
Barely Magic is the first book in Maddy Madrigal Mysteries, a new urban fantasy series from Debra Castaneda, the award-winning author of The Monsters of Chavez Ravine and the Dark Earth Rising series including The Root Witch and A Dark and Rising Tide.
327 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 20, 2025
380 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Debra Castaneda
25 books295 followersDebra Castaneda is an award-winning author of urban fantasy and dark fiction based on the central coast of California.
Her works include Barely Magic, the first book in the Maddy Madrigal Mysteries series of urban fantasy novels; The Spore Queen, The Devil’s Shallows, The Root Witch, The Copper Man, Circus at Devil’s Landing, and A Dark and Rising Tide, which comprise the Dark Earth Rising series of standalone novels, and The Monsters of Chavez Ravine, an International Latino Book Awards gold medal winner.
Debra loves writing character-driven stories about people who experience scary or magical things, and how they react when confronted with the unexpected. She’s committed to representing Latinas and Latinos in her books.
For inspiration, she draws from her experience as a TV and radio journalist, and as a third-generation Mexican American
Debra now lives on the central coast of California with her husband. She enjoys rediscovering the Mexican dishes of her childhood and texting her two daughters about her latest binge-watch.
~Subscribe to her newsletter for the occasional giveaway and the latest news at www.debracastaneda.com;
~Stay in touch with her at: @castanedawrites on Facebook & @castanedawrites on Instagram .
Her works include Barely Magic, the first book in the Maddy Madrigal Mysteries series of urban fantasy novels; The Spore Queen, The Devil’s Shallows, The Root Witch, The Copper Man, Circus at Devil’s Landing, and A Dark and Rising Tide, which comprise the Dark Earth Rising series of standalone novels, and The Monsters of Chavez Ravine, an International Latino Book Awards gold medal winner.
Debra loves writing character-driven stories about people who experience scary or magical things, and how they react when confronted with the unexpected. She’s committed to representing Latinas and Latinos in her books.
For inspiration, she draws from her experience as a TV and radio journalist, and as a third-generation Mexican American
Debra now lives on the central coast of California with her husband. She enjoys rediscovering the Mexican dishes of her childhood and texting her two daughters about her latest binge-watch.
~Subscribe to her newsletter for the occasional giveaway and the latest news at www.debracastaneda.com;
~Stay in touch with her at: @castanedawrites on Facebook & @castanedawrites on Instagram .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
May 5, 2025
Fabulous read!!
When I read the description and decided to give this book a try what caught me was early Anita Blake fans will love it. And I totally agree except I think Maddy has a less cynical life view which makes the tone a bit lighter and more refreshing. I loved learning about the Mexican-American culture and its historical and magical elements. I think LA is the perfect setting because seriously where else would magical beings appear and people just treat it like an irritant and nothing more lol. I am very much looking forward to reading more about Maddy and maybe learning about her family and what adventures she’ll have next!
When I read the description and decided to give this book a try what caught me was early Anita Blake fans will love it. And I totally agree except I think Maddy has a less cynical life view which makes the tone a bit lighter and more refreshing. I loved learning about the Mexican-American culture and its historical and magical elements. I think LA is the perfect setting because seriously where else would magical beings appear and people just treat it like an irritant and nothing more lol. I am very much looking forward to reading more about Maddy and maybe learning about her family and what adventures she’ll have next!
March 4, 2025
I enjoyed this story. The background information was great. I liked how the mystery was played out. Good read!
August 8, 2025
So glad I discovered this series!
I loved the role that Mexican brujería culture plays in this story, and look forward to the next books!
Maddy (Madeline) Madrigal is a descendant of women who were known for a variety of mystical practices. Her great aunt was a well-known bruja, her grandmother practiced curandería, and Maddie’s mother is a mystic on TV. But Maddie believes she has no magic at all.
A new job and house begins to show her otherwise.
No romance, but Maddy is attracted to Stu, a security expert.
I loved the role that Mexican brujería culture plays in this story, and look forward to the next books!
Maddy (Madeline) Madrigal is a descendant of women who were known for a variety of mystical practices. Her great aunt was a well-known bruja, her grandmother practiced curandería, and Maddie’s mother is a mystic on TV. But Maddie believes she has no magic at all.
A new job and house begins to show her otherwise.
No romance, but Maddy is attracted to Stu, a security expert.
September 29, 2025
Wonderful
Nicely developed beginnings of what should be a fantastic series. I look forward to reading the next book. Try it.
Nicely developed beginnings of what should be a fantastic series. I look forward to reading the next book. Try it.
March 13, 2025
Barely Magic was an amazing book, full of compelling characters and wonderful worldbuilding!
Maddy Madrigal was an intriguing mc with a lovely inner voice that added a touch of humor at times (or my humor is just broken). She is competent and interesting, but she also has flaws, flaws that do impede her at times. I cannot say this enough: mcs have to have flaws! A character is not interesting when perfect, and a story cannot happen without character growth. Since Maddy did have believable flaws, and was also a strong character, her inner voice was nice to read. Maddy's cat was also a really nice character. His antics were so much fun to read!
Now for the worldbuilding. The world that this book is set in has creatures called "entities," which are basically supernatural creatures like trolls and fairies. To contain these entities, a portion of law enforcement has agents/officers capturing said entities when they appear. Think the SCP Foundation, but we don't see inside the containment facilities. Maddy Madrigal is one of the best in this field. Entities are everywhere, except for a very exclusive suburb called Chavez Ravine. This is where the amazing world building comes into play - Chavez Ravine is based on an actual neighborhood formerly inhabited by Mexican Americans. The book is based on the premise of what if the mexican americans had not been evicted from their homes, what if they had been able to come back? What if there was a supernatural reason that caused the residents to leave? These questions were masterfully answered, being used to weave a masterful story full of vibrant color.
Now you might be wondering, given my complimentary review, why only 4 stars? Perhaps a 4.5 would be more indicative of my opinion. While most of the book was very enjoyable, the pacing felt slow at times. It was interesting, no doubt about that, but it failed to keep me engaged the entire time. But, the book might be more interesting for you! We all have different tastes anyway, so you might enjoy the pacing more. In summary, Barely Magic is perfect for you if you are looking for an urban fantasy with wonderful world building (rooted in the very real history of a city struggling with racial divides) and well written, compelling characters!
Maddy Madrigal was an intriguing mc with a lovely inner voice that added a touch of humor at times (or my humor is just broken). She is competent and interesting, but she also has flaws, flaws that do impede her at times. I cannot say this enough: mcs have to have flaws! A character is not interesting when perfect, and a story cannot happen without character growth. Since Maddy did have believable flaws, and was also a strong character, her inner voice was nice to read. Maddy's cat was also a really nice character. His antics were so much fun to read!
Now for the worldbuilding. The world that this book is set in has creatures called "entities," which are basically supernatural creatures like trolls and fairies. To contain these entities, a portion of law enforcement has agents/officers capturing said entities when they appear. Think the SCP Foundation, but we don't see inside the containment facilities. Maddy Madrigal is one of the best in this field. Entities are everywhere, except for a very exclusive suburb called Chavez Ravine. This is where the amazing world building comes into play - Chavez Ravine is based on an actual neighborhood formerly inhabited by Mexican Americans. The book is based on the premise of what if the mexican americans had not been evicted from their homes, what if they had been able to come back? What if there was a supernatural reason that caused the residents to leave? These questions were masterfully answered, being used to weave a masterful story full of vibrant color.
Now you might be wondering, given my complimentary review, why only 4 stars? Perhaps a 4.5 would be more indicative of my opinion. While most of the book was very enjoyable, the pacing felt slow at times. It was interesting, no doubt about that, but it failed to keep me engaged the entire time. But, the book might be more interesting for you! We all have different tastes anyway, so you might enjoy the pacing more. In summary, Barely Magic is perfect for you if you are looking for an urban fantasy with wonderful world building (rooted in the very real history of a city struggling with racial divides) and well written, compelling characters!
March 27, 2025
I had so much fun reading this book! When we first meet the FMC, Maddy, she is an officer in LAPD’s Occult Affairs Division. One of her (few) good friends, Jo, works in the command center and I loved those characters and the banter and honesty between them.
While Maddy knows she is in a dead end job, especially with their new boss, Jo puts it bluntly by telling her, more or less, the only way up, is out.
When she is offered a dream job in a dream neighborhood, one her family used to live in, she can hardly believe it.
I think most of us have felt stagnant at one point in our lives. Would we take the opportunity to create something new for ourselves if given the chance?
One of my favorite scenes in the book was when Maddy finally realized who one of the board members was. It made me laugh out loud because I have felt embarrassed on more than one occasion over the years, just by having a conversation with someone only to find out “who” they were after.
I love that Maddy is strong, both physically and mentally and isn’t afraid to face what seem like impossible challenges.
I loved learning more about the area and the Spanish-American communities connection to it.
While Maddy was hired for (no spoiler here), she may just learn that she really does have the magical genes of the women in her family and may just become a bruja yet.
If you love a rich world where you can picture the streets, restaurants (oh, to have one of those tamales and margaritas) and a cast of fun and quirky characters (complete with the family bickering across the rainbow), then Maddy’s world may just be for you.
I for one am happy to have found a new author to follow and a new series to escape in to. Do you think she will include a recipe or two in her next book? A girl can dream!
#BarelyMagic #DebraCastaneda #Booksirens #GatedCommunity #Entities #Hex #Spanish-American #Bruja #NewBeginnings
While Maddy knows she is in a dead end job, especially with their new boss, Jo puts it bluntly by telling her, more or less, the only way up, is out.
When she is offered a dream job in a dream neighborhood, one her family used to live in, she can hardly believe it.
I think most of us have felt stagnant at one point in our lives. Would we take the opportunity to create something new for ourselves if given the chance?
One of my favorite scenes in the book was when Maddy finally realized who one of the board members was. It made me laugh out loud because I have felt embarrassed on more than one occasion over the years, just by having a conversation with someone only to find out “who” they were after.
I love that Maddy is strong, both physically and mentally and isn’t afraid to face what seem like impossible challenges.
I loved learning more about the area and the Spanish-American communities connection to it.
While Maddy was hired for (no spoiler here), she may just learn that she really does have the magical genes of the women in her family and may just become a bruja yet.
If you love a rich world where you can picture the streets, restaurants (oh, to have one of those tamales and margaritas) and a cast of fun and quirky characters (complete with the family bickering across the rainbow), then Maddy’s world may just be for you.
I for one am happy to have found a new author to follow and a new series to escape in to. Do you think she will include a recipe or two in her next book? A girl can dream!
#BarelyMagic #DebraCastaneda #Booksirens #GatedCommunity #Entities #Hex #Spanish-American #Bruja #NewBeginnings
June 8, 2025
“Barely Magic”, the first installment in Debra Castaneda’s “Maddy Madrigal Mystery” series, is a compelling blend of urban fantasy and mystery that leaves readers eager for more. Set in a contemporary world where the supernatural lurks beneath the surface, the novel follows Maddy Madrigal, a no-nonsense investigator working for the LAPD’s Occult Affairs division. When she takes on a new role as Head of Security in Chavez Ravine, her life takes an even stranger turn as she encounters supernatural threats far beyond what she faced in her previous job.
Castaneda skillfully grounds the fantastical elements in reality, making Maddy’s world feel immersive and believable. The seamless integration of Maddy’s family history adds depth to the story—particularly when she moves into her grandmother’s house and the reader learns, more, about her maternal lineage of witches and healers. This backstory not only enriches her character but also provides a convincing reason for her being chosen for such an unusual job.
The plot strikes a perfect balance between tension and warmth, weaving together a main storyline filled with menace and mystery while also giving Maddy a home (her quirky LQ), new friendships, and even a budding romance. The characters are vividly drawn and continue to evolve as the story progresses, making them feel real and engaging. Maddy herself is a likable and relatable protagonist, and her dynamic with Sam, the enigmatic Bengal cat she reluctantly adopts, adds a delightful touch of charm.
With its smooth pacing, well-crafted world-building, and a protagonist who’s easy to root for, “Barely Magic” sets a strong foundation for the series. I’m already looking forward to the next adventure!
Castaneda skillfully grounds the fantastical elements in reality, making Maddy’s world feel immersive and believable. The seamless integration of Maddy’s family history adds depth to the story—particularly when she moves into her grandmother’s house and the reader learns, more, about her maternal lineage of witches and healers. This backstory not only enriches her character but also provides a convincing reason for her being chosen for such an unusual job.
The plot strikes a perfect balance between tension and warmth, weaving together a main storyline filled with menace and mystery while also giving Maddy a home (her quirky LQ), new friendships, and even a budding romance. The characters are vividly drawn and continue to evolve as the story progresses, making them feel real and engaging. Maddy herself is a likable and relatable protagonist, and her dynamic with Sam, the enigmatic Bengal cat she reluctantly adopts, adds a delightful touch of charm.
With its smooth pacing, well-crafted world-building, and a protagonist who’s easy to root for, “Barely Magic” sets a strong foundation for the series. I’m already looking forward to the next adventure!
November 30, 2025
Good
Maddy Madrigal was working as a cop with the Otherworld Affairs Bureau, when she decided to pivot. Her new start puts her in the exclusive community of Chavez Ravine, an area where her grandmother once lived and worked as a folk healer in the Mexican tradition (Curandera).
Maddy’s new job was supposed to be an easy one, after all the Entities have never appeared in the community before; but almost as soon as she starts her new job, she’s facing off with unusual entities that don’t behave normally at all.
Maddy’s new start isn’t going to plan, but it might just be the exact thing she needed to make her life feel meaningful.
This book begins Maddy’s story, and introduces us to Chavez Ravine in an alternative universe in which “Entities” from the Otherworld keep escaping into the human world. While Maddy has spent years tracking and dealing with them, her experiences don’t exactly translate to what she’s dealing with in her new home. Fortunately Maddy’s Brujeria heritage proves to be a useful weapon for her, even though she doesn’t know a whole lot about it.
There are some big plot holes in the tale, which I’m hoping are meant to be filled in subsequent books, and hopefully the questions that remain will also be answered then too (but I won’t spoil the story); because I have a lot of questions, especially about Maddy’s Mum.
It’s a fast paced story, with a Mexican-American focus, some intriguing monsters, and an interesting magical premise. As a series starter, it’s a good one, with plenty of room to grow, and with a fascinating setting.
If you enjoy Urban Fantasy with a hint of Mystery, and an Alternate Universe setting, then you’ll enjoy this book.
Maddy Madrigal was working as a cop with the Otherworld Affairs Bureau, when she decided to pivot. Her new start puts her in the exclusive community of Chavez Ravine, an area where her grandmother once lived and worked as a folk healer in the Mexican tradition (Curandera).
Maddy’s new job was supposed to be an easy one, after all the Entities have never appeared in the community before; but almost as soon as she starts her new job, she’s facing off with unusual entities that don’t behave normally at all.
Maddy’s new start isn’t going to plan, but it might just be the exact thing she needed to make her life feel meaningful.
This book begins Maddy’s story, and introduces us to Chavez Ravine in an alternative universe in which “Entities” from the Otherworld keep escaping into the human world. While Maddy has spent years tracking and dealing with them, her experiences don’t exactly translate to what she’s dealing with in her new home. Fortunately Maddy’s Brujeria heritage proves to be a useful weapon for her, even though she doesn’t know a whole lot about it.
There are some big plot holes in the tale, which I’m hoping are meant to be filled in subsequent books, and hopefully the questions that remain will also be answered then too (but I won’t spoil the story); because I have a lot of questions, especially about Maddy’s Mum.
It’s a fast paced story, with a Mexican-American focus, some intriguing monsters, and an interesting magical premise. As a series starter, it’s a good one, with plenty of room to grow, and with a fascinating setting.
If you enjoy Urban Fantasy with a hint of Mystery, and an Alternate Universe setting, then you’ll enjoy this book.
March 23, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️
This is my first book by Debra Castaneda. In this urban fantasy, it was wonderful to see magic within the world I know and an MC that was genuine, flawed, and realistic. Set in a city that I am familiar with, it was easy to envision where our MC was, the things she was seeing, and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the city written through Debra’s eyes.
This book is swimming in Mexican heritage, folklore, and legend. I loved reading about this, as it is my heritage as well. To see the research that went into ensuring this aspect of the book was as truthful as possible, I appreciated that Debra respected this culture the way she did. As most urban fantasies include, the supernatural and suspense of this book was perfectly balanced. One didn’t outshine the other, but rather each element strengthened the story line.
Maddy was a fun FMC to read about and seeing a strong, but struggling FMC made her all that more relatable. As she begins to uncover more about herself and her family, I loved the growth that she went through. Her journey is just beginning though and I am excited to see where Debra takes us next.
Overall a fun, well paced, and consistent storyline made this book an enjoyable read. I loved the rich history within the book, the world building, the character development and growth, and the intrigue of what will happen next. Oh and I have to note how much I loved the animal “sidekick”, a mysterious cat.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
Tropes:
🏙Urban Fantasy
🏙Struggling FMC
🏙Family Secrets
🏙Magical Creatures
🏙Folklore and Legends
This is my first book by Debra Castaneda. In this urban fantasy, it was wonderful to see magic within the world I know and an MC that was genuine, flawed, and realistic. Set in a city that I am familiar with, it was easy to envision where our MC was, the things she was seeing, and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the city written through Debra’s eyes.
This book is swimming in Mexican heritage, folklore, and legend. I loved reading about this, as it is my heritage as well. To see the research that went into ensuring this aspect of the book was as truthful as possible, I appreciated that Debra respected this culture the way she did. As most urban fantasies include, the supernatural and suspense of this book was perfectly balanced. One didn’t outshine the other, but rather each element strengthened the story line.
Maddy was a fun FMC to read about and seeing a strong, but struggling FMC made her all that more relatable. As she begins to uncover more about herself and her family, I loved the growth that she went through. Her journey is just beginning though and I am excited to see where Debra takes us next.
Overall a fun, well paced, and consistent storyline made this book an enjoyable read. I loved the rich history within the book, the world building, the character development and growth, and the intrigue of what will happen next. Oh and I have to note how much I loved the animal “sidekick”, a mysterious cat.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
Tropes:
🏙Urban Fantasy
🏙Struggling FMC
🏙Family Secrets
🏙Magical Creatures
🏙Folklore and Legends
June 30, 2025
a winner!
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Debra Castaneda is another new to me author I’ve discovered via her Maddy Madrigal Mysteries series. Based in the Chavez Ravine area of Los Angeles, it’s a location the author has a personal and familial connection with.
As the description suggests, it’s monsters, mayhem, and Mexican food. But it’s much more. It’s about Mexican culture, mythology, and the politics of the past that allows certain ethnic groups to be seen as less important or even less visible so their presence and property can be considered up for grabs.
It’s scare tactics but the monsters are real.
Barely Magic (Maddy Madrigal Mysteries Book 1) by Debra Castaneda is a story I feel got better, scenario wise. The character of Maddy Madrigal finds herself back in a home where she and her family have history. Quite by accident, or so it seems.
As Maddy becomes more assertive about her own personal relationship to the place where she’s living in and working, the character’s growth and story development will continue to work to strengthen the plot and the connection between them.
By the end I was thoroughly engaged and rooting for the character and her new community of friends.
I’m really excited to see where this character and series will go. So I’m onto the next in the series.
It’s a definite hit for me. And a recommendation for those who enjoy strong female characters, mysteries with a cultural element.
Cover design by: Jacqueline Sweet
Maddy Madrigal Mysteries:
Barely Magic #1
Somewhat Magic #2
Desperate Magic #3
Semi-related:
Chavez Ravine Stories (3 books)
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Debra Castaneda is another new to me author I’ve discovered via her Maddy Madrigal Mysteries series. Based in the Chavez Ravine area of Los Angeles, it’s a location the author has a personal and familial connection with.
As the description suggests, it’s monsters, mayhem, and Mexican food. But it’s much more. It’s about Mexican culture, mythology, and the politics of the past that allows certain ethnic groups to be seen as less important or even less visible so their presence and property can be considered up for grabs.
It’s scare tactics but the monsters are real.
Barely Magic (Maddy Madrigal Mysteries Book 1) by Debra Castaneda is a story I feel got better, scenario wise. The character of Maddy Madrigal finds herself back in a home where she and her family have history. Quite by accident, or so it seems.
As Maddy becomes more assertive about her own personal relationship to the place where she’s living in and working, the character’s growth and story development will continue to work to strengthen the plot and the connection between them.
By the end I was thoroughly engaged and rooting for the character and her new community of friends.
I’m really excited to see where this character and series will go. So I’m onto the next in the series.
It’s a definite hit for me. And a recommendation for those who enjoy strong female characters, mysteries with a cultural element.
Cover design by: Jacqueline Sweet
Maddy Madrigal Mysteries:
Barely Magic #1
Somewhat Magic #2
Desperate Magic #3
Semi-related:
Chavez Ravine Stories (3 books)
March 8, 2025
I love Castaneda's works, and the Maddy Madrigal Mysteries are shaping up to be a new favourite.
Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, Maddy Madrigal, is a worn-out officer of the overwhelmed LAPD's Occult Affairs division. Ever since the arrival of supernatural entities, the world has changed and gargoyles, trolls and other fantasy creatures have created an endless run of trouble. Not helping matters is Maddy's boss who is determined to keep his staff under-resourced. Adding to Maddy's personal issues is a looming eviction. So when a board member of a seemingly perfect gated community, invites Maddy to become the new head of security, complete with free accommodation, it seems too good to be true.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is its deep connection to Mexican culture and history. Through Maddy's exploration of her family's legacy, readers are introduced to the powerful heritage of Mexican witchcraft and folklore.
The novel expertly balances suspense and supernatural elements, with each chapter unraveling new secrets and keeping readers guessing. The plot is intricately woven, ensuring that the pace never falters, and the characters are well-developed and engaging. Maddy's journey of self-discovery and her interactions with the enigmatic community she is tasked to protect add depth and intrigue to the story.
Fans of early Anita Blake will definitely appreciate this! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, Maddy Madrigal, is a worn-out officer of the overwhelmed LAPD's Occult Affairs division. Ever since the arrival of supernatural entities, the world has changed and gargoyles, trolls and other fantasy creatures have created an endless run of trouble. Not helping matters is Maddy's boss who is determined to keep his staff under-resourced. Adding to Maddy's personal issues is a looming eviction. So when a board member of a seemingly perfect gated community, invites Maddy to become the new head of security, complete with free accommodation, it seems too good to be true.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is its deep connection to Mexican culture and history. Through Maddy's exploration of her family's legacy, readers are introduced to the powerful heritage of Mexican witchcraft and folklore.
The novel expertly balances suspense and supernatural elements, with each chapter unraveling new secrets and keeping readers guessing. The plot is intricately woven, ensuring that the pace never falters, and the characters are well-developed and engaging. Maddy's journey of self-discovery and her interactions with the enigmatic community she is tasked to protect add depth and intrigue to the story.
Fans of early Anita Blake will definitely appreciate this! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 19, 2025
First let me start by saying I am a fan of Debra Castaneda. I've read a few of her books and have a few more loaded on my Kindle TBR . I jumped at the chance to read this one and it does not disappoint.
Set in Chavez Ravine where notably Mexican residents were forced to move after eminent domain ousted them for a public housing development which never happened. Historically this happened but the housing development didn't. Instead Dodger Stadium did. In Barely Magic, Chavez Ravine is now an exclusive community of wealthy people and Mexican descendants who had the chance to get their land back
After an earthquake, a fissure opens unleashing creatures of myth aka "entities" on California. There is now a whole department set up to deal with these creatures. This is the set up for the first in the Maddy Madrigal Mysteries series. We're introduced to a heroine who's a real girl's girl. Extremely relatable and very likable, Maddy gets offered a job in an exclusive gated community as head of security. The problem is this community is besieged by monsters that are unlike any seen before.
This is really such a fun book! I loved the main character Maddy and her friends. I enjoyed how their relationships are slowly developing and not rushed. It makes the book feel warmer. I'm really looking forward to the rest of the series.
Full disclosure, I received an ARC and this review is my own. I have purchased books from this author. She's really good!
Set in Chavez Ravine where notably Mexican residents were forced to move after eminent domain ousted them for a public housing development which never happened. Historically this happened but the housing development didn't. Instead Dodger Stadium did. In Barely Magic, Chavez Ravine is now an exclusive community of wealthy people and Mexican descendants who had the chance to get their land back
After an earthquake, a fissure opens unleashing creatures of myth aka "entities" on California. There is now a whole department set up to deal with these creatures. This is the set up for the first in the Maddy Madrigal Mysteries series. We're introduced to a heroine who's a real girl's girl. Extremely relatable and very likable, Maddy gets offered a job in an exclusive gated community as head of security. The problem is this community is besieged by monsters that are unlike any seen before.
This is really such a fun book! I loved the main character Maddy and her friends. I enjoyed how their relationships are slowly developing and not rushed. It makes the book feel warmer. I'm really looking forward to the rest of the series.
Full disclosure, I received an ARC and this review is my own. I have purchased books from this author. She's really good!
April 7, 2025
A good example of the cozy style paranormal urban mystery genre. World background is modern LA but years ago magic creatures started coming through cracks in our world after a large LA area earthquake.
Some are truly dangerous but most are only a little. LAPD sets up a special agency to fight and capture them and they are taken to a large holding facility to live out their lives. The government then underfunds and overworks the agency-- so the main character quits and accepts a job in a very large HOA run residential and high end shopping/eating gated community. She is now the director of security, just as the area is swamped by creatures, when they were extremely rare before.
She fights the bad creatures and a bad guy, low key fights several HOA board members who have conflicting political and economic incentives and goals, and is in a light clean romance.
There were a few weaknesses. First, the HOA does not like guns, so the fight scenes could be more drama. But it seemed a little silly. And second the area had been, a long time ago, Hispanic homes. And the city bought them all out and redeveloped the area-- somehow this now means the MC who is lightly culturally Hispanic gets a home for free there (it makes no sense, either legally or in-story).
But I think the race/eminent domain thing was
Some are truly dangerous but most are only a little. LAPD sets up a special agency to fight and capture them and they are taken to a large holding facility to live out their lives. The government then underfunds and overworks the agency-- so the main character quits and accepts a job in a very large HOA run residential and high end shopping/eating gated community. She is now the director of security, just as the area is swamped by creatures, when they were extremely rare before.
She fights the bad creatures and a bad guy, low key fights several HOA board members who have conflicting political and economic incentives and goals, and is in a light clean romance.
There were a few weaknesses. First, the HOA does not like guns, so the fight scenes could be more drama. But it seemed a little silly. And second the area had been, a long time ago, Hispanic homes. And the city bought them all out and redeveloped the area-- somehow this now means the MC who is lightly culturally Hispanic gets a home for free there (it makes no sense, either legally or in-story).
But I think the race/eminent domain thing was
April 24, 2025
Barely Magic by Debra Castaneda is the first in the Maddy Madrigal Mystery series. After an earthquake several years ago, strange creatures started emerging from the earth. Maddy is on the occult police force to contain these entities despite low pay and hard work. When she is offered a job in Chavez Ravine that gives her access to her lost family home, she can’t resist.
I was really pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed this. Urban fantasy is one of my favorite genres but seems to be falling a bit out of favor in the publishing world, so it has become harder to find well written new work. This features a determined, capable main character with some self-doubt and flaws. She’s a bit of a loner but I very much like the new friend she meets on her block, Julia, who is pretty fearless. The battles that Maddy faces are just as much about coping with her bosses and dealing with overbearing men as they are with the magical creatures.
The plot moves very quickly and once the danger was over, I had to laugh at some of Maddy’s encounters with the monsters. Since this was the initial book, I let go that the magic isn’t well defined, and it’s not really clear how it works in this world.
On a side note, I was not familiar with Chavez Ravine—a real place—that has some controversial history in Los Angeles. I’m excited to read some other titles that the author has set there.
Thank you to BookSirens and Shadow Canyon Press for the eARC.
I was really pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed this. Urban fantasy is one of my favorite genres but seems to be falling a bit out of favor in the publishing world, so it has become harder to find well written new work. This features a determined, capable main character with some self-doubt and flaws. She’s a bit of a loner but I very much like the new friend she meets on her block, Julia, who is pretty fearless. The battles that Maddy faces are just as much about coping with her bosses and dealing with overbearing men as they are with the magical creatures.
The plot moves very quickly and once the danger was over, I had to laugh at some of Maddy’s encounters with the monsters. Since this was the initial book, I let go that the magic isn’t well defined, and it’s not really clear how it works in this world.
On a side note, I was not familiar with Chavez Ravine—a real place—that has some controversial history in Los Angeles. I’m excited to read some other titles that the author has set there.
Thank you to BookSirens and Shadow Canyon Press for the eARC.
March 28, 2025
This was a book I couldn’t put down! I loved it!
This is such a feel good book.
I am not going to go into details because I don’t want to tell any spoilers… But the story starts at a point where Maddy Madrigal has no real chance to get a promotion or a better pay at work. Her job is to kick ass to capture entities that need to be put away, and it’s a hell of job. I just loved Maddy the main character, at 40 she has not a lot of friends nore a lot of furniture, but she is fit and driven and has her heart in the right place. She loves her Mexican food and isn’t afraid of challenge. Maddy’s life is about to change big time for the good but she will be challenged! Luckily she will get help and a piece of the puzzle of the mystery of her lineage, will be uncovered in the process.
This book may be supernatural, but was written with some real Mexican American history, it has real depth and is very down to earth.
Having finished this first book in this awesome supernatural series, I just can’t wait to start the next one! So that is exactly what I am going to do! Can’t wait to see what Maddy is up to next!
Very well written, funny and easy to read! I totally recommend this book!
Although I received this advance review copy for free, as always, I am leaving this review voluntarily and in all honesty.
This is such a feel good book.
I am not going to go into details because I don’t want to tell any spoilers… But the story starts at a point where Maddy Madrigal has no real chance to get a promotion or a better pay at work. Her job is to kick ass to capture entities that need to be put away, and it’s a hell of job. I just loved Maddy the main character, at 40 she has not a lot of friends nore a lot of furniture, but she is fit and driven and has her heart in the right place. She loves her Mexican food and isn’t afraid of challenge. Maddy’s life is about to change big time for the good but she will be challenged! Luckily she will get help and a piece of the puzzle of the mystery of her lineage, will be uncovered in the process.
This book may be supernatural, but was written with some real Mexican American history, it has real depth and is very down to earth.
Having finished this first book in this awesome supernatural series, I just can’t wait to start the next one! So that is exactly what I am going to do! Can’t wait to see what Maddy is up to next!
Very well written, funny and easy to read! I totally recommend this book!
Although I received this advance review copy for free, as always, I am leaving this review voluntarily and in all honesty.
May 29, 2025
Working in the Occult Affairs division of the LAPD has worn Madeline "Maddy" Madrigal down. Headhunted by the president of a Home Owners' Association to lead their security department, Maddy leaves behind an unsatisfying life for the challenging one of keeping the residents safe from unnatural forces in their gated community. Maddy finds her feet when puzzling creatures begin attacking. And then the politics of the job assert themselves.
I always begin my review of a paranormal cosy by saying, "I'm not usually a fan of paranormal cosies, especially when they are 'woo woo.'" Barely Magic is the 'woo woo' type of cosy, and I loved it. Maddy virtually took me by the hand and led me through her life. It was complexly straightforward and fascinating at the same time. Not to mention that Maddy is the best type of heroine, one whose desire to help is woven through her character. With a wealth of life experience behind her, Maddy's voice is both "sarky" and brave, leading her to meet challenges head-on.
Fair warning: the subject matter occasionally leans toward the adult side.
For me, this was a definite five-star book, and I'm impatient to read the next one!
Thank you to Debra Castaneda and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this digital ARC. As always, my opinions are my own, honest and true.
I always begin my review of a paranormal cosy by saying, "I'm not usually a fan of paranormal cosies, especially when they are 'woo woo.'" Barely Magic is the 'woo woo' type of cosy, and I loved it. Maddy virtually took me by the hand and led me through her life. It was complexly straightforward and fascinating at the same time. Not to mention that Maddy is the best type of heroine, one whose desire to help is woven through her character. With a wealth of life experience behind her, Maddy's voice is both "sarky" and brave, leading her to meet challenges head-on.
Fair warning: the subject matter occasionally leans toward the adult side.
For me, this was a definite five-star book, and I'm impatient to read the next one!
Thank you to Debra Castaneda and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this digital ARC. As always, my opinions are my own, honest and true.
September 5, 2025
(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I want to change my scoring by 0.50 or more of a star. -- I tend not to read reviews until after I read a book, so I go in with an open mind.)
3.25*
I liked the MC.
I liked the cat.
I liked the characters.
I liked the story.
British accent.... that is not helpful, we have many accents in Britain. --- That took me out of the story as I tried to figure out what the character was supposed to sound like.
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
3.25*
I liked the MC.
I liked the cat.
I liked the characters.
I liked the story.
British accent.... that is not helpful, we have many accents in Britain. --- That took me out of the story as I tried to figure out what the character was supposed to sound like.
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
March 7, 2025
This is a great read. Set in a suburb of Los Angeles after some natural disasters have caused “entities”, such as trolls, gremlins, elves, etc. to randomly appear around the city. These entities do not necessarily cause harm but must be captured and transported to a holding area.
Maddy is an Occult Affairs officer, part of the police force, when she is approached by the exclusive suburb of Chavez Ravine, to be their new security officer. Besides her law enforcement background, her family was originally from the Chavez Ravine and she is entitled to her old family home.
Maddy’s grandmother and aunt were famous witches and her estranged mother is a famous psychic. Maddy doesn’t think she has magic but strange things do happen around her.
As she moves into her family home, a lost cat also moves it but it’s not quite a normal cat although it’s hard to say why.
There are strange attacks on some of the houses in the neighbourhood, but non of the attacking beings fit into the entity descriptions.
This book has an interesting mystery, characters, a great world, some magic, humour and is a quick easy read.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and will definitely more in this series as they come out.
Maddy is an Occult Affairs officer, part of the police force, when she is approached by the exclusive suburb of Chavez Ravine, to be their new security officer. Besides her law enforcement background, her family was originally from the Chavez Ravine and she is entitled to her old family home.
Maddy’s grandmother and aunt were famous witches and her estranged mother is a famous psychic. Maddy doesn’t think she has magic but strange things do happen around her.
As she moves into her family home, a lost cat also moves it but it’s not quite a normal cat although it’s hard to say why.
There are strange attacks on some of the houses in the neighbourhood, but non of the attacking beings fit into the entity descriptions.
This book has an interesting mystery, characters, a great world, some magic, humour and is a quick easy read.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and will definitely more in this series as they come out.
March 7, 2025
Barely Magic is the first in a fun new series full of supernatural creatures, mysteries, and brujería. Maddy Madrigal spends her days working in the Occult Affairs division of the LAPD, capturing the entities and that have become pervasive throughout the city. When the opportunity for a cushy job as head of security, complete with a spacious home, arises in the gated community of Chavez Ravine, Maddy jumps at the chance. Chavez Ravine boasts that it has never had any entity invasion issues, but a series of strange attacks by supernatural monsters soon reveal there is more going on beneath the surface than Maddy realized. As she digs deeper into the mystery, she’s forced to confront the past and legacy of her family, including the possibility that she may have inherited the abilities of her great aunt, a powerful witch.
This book immediately sucked me in and I found myself saying “just one more chapter” every night until I was too tired to read. If you’re a fan of monsters, intrigue, Mexican food, and bengal cats, be sure to grab this one. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for Maddy next!
This book immediately sucked me in and I found myself saying “just one more chapter” every night until I was too tired to read. If you’re a fan of monsters, intrigue, Mexican food, and bengal cats, be sure to grab this one. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for Maddy next!
March 26, 2025
Debra Castaneda is an auto-read author for me. I love the way she blends historical details with the supernatural and her writing, even though she writes horror, is a comfort for me. When I heard she was starting a new mystery series, I knew I would be reading it, and then I found out that it ties into her Chavez Ravine books, which I've enjoyed so much.
In the first book of the series, we meet Maddy Madrigal, who works for the LAPD's Occult Affairs division, but is pretty unhappy with both her job and her apartment, so when the chance to work at the posh, gated community of Chavez Ravine, she takes it and soon the community has some interesting entities for Maddy to deal with.
I love Maddy - she is brave and clever, and takes everything that comes her way in her stride, including her part of the Cat Distribution System (look it up, it's a real thing). And all the delicious Mexican food in the book make me very happy that I have an excellent Mexican restaurant near me. This was a great start to the series and I am already looking forward to the second one!
In the first book of the series, we meet Maddy Madrigal, who works for the LAPD's Occult Affairs division, but is pretty unhappy with both her job and her apartment, so when the chance to work at the posh, gated community of Chavez Ravine, she takes it and soon the community has some interesting entities for Maddy to deal with.
I love Maddy - she is brave and clever, and takes everything that comes her way in her stride, including her part of the Cat Distribution System (look it up, it's a real thing). And all the delicious Mexican food in the book make me very happy that I have an excellent Mexican restaurant near me. This was a great start to the series and I am already looking forward to the second one!
March 27, 2025
The book offers a fresh and unique take on the paranormal. Instead of the normal "entities" we see in normal books, we have some unique characters. Some are from legend and some are endowed with enhanced features. The backstory is also interesting and another fresh take. The entities were released into our world as part of a natural disaster and did not want to be here so they too had to adapt. The almost caste like system where those who can afford or have a connection to this one valley believe they are being spared the troubles that those outside live with. That is about to change.
Maddy is also not a typical "slayer" of entities. She's older and feels the aches the a younger person who brush off. I also appreciated how in a short period of time she found a home, a legacy. She is a good character who displays smarts, compassion and dedication to doing a good job. The cast of characters around her add layers to the story especially the cat who might not be a cat.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Maddy is also not a typical "slayer" of entities. She's older and feels the aches the a younger person who brush off. I also appreciated how in a short period of time she found a home, a legacy. She is a good character who displays smarts, compassion and dedication to doing a good job. The cast of characters around her add layers to the story especially the cat who might not be a cat.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 28, 2025
Right from the start, Madeline Madrigal’s character is intriguing. Honestly it felt very “Men in Black” at first, with an agent attempting to take down an alien of some kind. But then I quickly realized we were in a world where “entities” were commonplace and dealt with by an agency Maddy had been part of for many years. But she was feeling very burnt out and like most of us have felt as some point, trying to figure out what to do next.
The next thing you know, Maddy is living in a prestigious gated community that her family has historical ties to, and did I mention they are also magical?
This was a quick read that had a bit of Mexican American lore added in, black magic, and a cat that seems to know more than the average cat should- Sold! Looking forward to more Maddy Madrigal mysteries.
Thank you Book Sirens and Debra Castaneda! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The next thing you know, Maddy is living in a prestigious gated community that her family has historical ties to, and did I mention they are also magical?
This was a quick read that had a bit of Mexican American lore added in, black magic, and a cat that seems to know more than the average cat should- Sold! Looking forward to more Maddy Madrigal mysteries.
Thank you Book Sirens and Debra Castaneda! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 30, 2025
Barely Magic is a wonderful paranormal mystery with lots of hidden dangers and a possible bruja in denial. Our MC Madeline is descended from a line of powerful bruja’s although her mother chose a more mythical/medicinal path. I love that Madeline has found a way to connect to her heritage and to begin exploring the limitations of any power she might possess. I love she is a legacy in her grandmother’s old home hers now and that she loves it and the community she was hired to protect. I have to say the twists and turns are well played and the true culprit although insufferable wasn’t on my villain list so bravo! Also I love her familiar although she doesn’t realize that’s what this fierce little kitty (or should I say large kitty) is. In all this was a great distraction it was well paced and the story flowed naturally and her friends and foes feel natural. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
March 20, 2025
Welcome back or welcome to Chavez Ravine! A little different from the other books Debra Castaneda has written, but very much worth the read. Maddy Madrigal (very magical name🧡) is the new head of security in Chavez Ravine a gated town. Her previous job? A LAPD officer, Occult Affairs Division. Turns out “entities” exist. We’re talking elves, water sprites, fairies, trolls, and the like. Within her first week, she faces entities that aren’t entities and aren’t exactly what they seem. AND THERE’S A CAT! He’s a mystery unto himself.
This book weaves folklore of several different nationalities with the supernatural and throws in some delicious sounding food, friendship, and a bit of romance perfectly. I’m so looking forward to my next visit to Chavez Ravine.
Shout out to the real main character Hugo! I hope Maddy changes his name to something more fitting because Hugo is not it.
This book weaves folklore of several different nationalities with the supernatural and throws in some delicious sounding food, friendship, and a bit of romance perfectly. I’m so looking forward to my next visit to Chavez Ravine.
Shout out to the real main character Hugo! I hope Maddy changes his name to something more fitting because Hugo is not it.
April 22, 2025
I’m a huge fan of cozy mysteries as well as Debra C’s books, so I was so thrilled to have the opportunity to read this!! Thank you Debra! This first book begins a fun and colorful series with Maddy Madrigal as our main character. Her experience as an LAPD officer in the occult affairs division lands her amazing opportunity to be the head of security in Chavez Ravine, an upscale gated town. Monsters are real and now are appearing in their town and it’s Maddy’s job to stop them!
Insert a little magic, tamales, magical new friendships, a very mysterious, cool cat, so much rich Mexican culture, and suddenly there is a very colorful mystery that is impossible to put down! I read this first of this new series in one setting and I’m anxiously awaiting book 2!
I absolutely love Maddy and I can’t wait to continue her adventures!
Insert a little magic, tamales, magical new friendships, a very mysterious, cool cat, so much rich Mexican culture, and suddenly there is a very colorful mystery that is impossible to put down! I read this first of this new series in one setting and I’m anxiously awaiting book 2!
I absolutely love Maddy and I can’t wait to continue her adventures!
June 30, 2025
I Loved it! I love books that feature competent, smart women who are given a chance to embrace their destiny. In Maddy Madrigal, we see a woman who works for the Los Angeles Police Department Occult Affairs Department chasing entities, which are mythological creatures that emerge out of the ground and terrorize the inhabitants. When Maddy gets an offer to run the security in an area that is notorious for not having entities… She takes that practical experience and she gets to work.
I loved the world-building of this story. The story is set in an alternative timeline where the Dodger Stadium was not built. Instead of being displaced, the folks who lived there were able to create their own gated community. I especially loved learning about the Mexican Mythology and foods, which featured prominently in this compelling story.
I can't wait to see where the author takes us next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved the world-building of this story. The story is set in an alternative timeline where the Dodger Stadium was not built. Instead of being displaced, the folks who lived there were able to create their own gated community. I especially loved learning about the Mexican Mythology and foods, which featured prominently in this compelling story.
I can't wait to see where the author takes us next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 21, 2025
Thanks Debra for the audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
First of all, the narrator gave an excellent performance and made the characters come to life. I would love to hear more of her work in the future.
This was a new kind of book for me. An urban fantasy mystery! Although I usually only read horror I really enjoy Debra Castaneda's other works and figured I'd give this a shot.
It was quite enjoyable. I loved the main character, Maddy. The story was compelling and I had a hard time putting this one down.
I loved the inclusion of all the mythical creatures. The cultural references were educational and expertly integrated into the story. Every time food was described I started to salivate, haha.
This was a great palate cleanser from the doom and gloom I typically read. 5⭐️s and I can't wait to check out the rest of the series in the future.
First of all, the narrator gave an excellent performance and made the characters come to life. I would love to hear more of her work in the future.
This was a new kind of book for me. An urban fantasy mystery! Although I usually only read horror I really enjoy Debra Castaneda's other works and figured I'd give this a shot.
It was quite enjoyable. I loved the main character, Maddy. The story was compelling and I had a hard time putting this one down.
I loved the inclusion of all the mythical creatures. The cultural references were educational and expertly integrated into the story. Every time food was described I started to salivate, haha.
This was a great palate cleanser from the doom and gloom I typically read. 5⭐️s and I can't wait to check out the rest of the series in the future.
November 3, 2025
not bad
I didn’t mind this book, the plot was interesting if a little predictable. My major issues were inconsistencies and continuity. There were multiple instances of time changing back and forth, sometimes from one paragraph to the next. Something that just happened is mentioned as happening yesterday and vice versa.
In terms of inconsistency, the main one was Maddy thinking that they’d never dealt with flying entities and literally the next paragraph going on about the Harpies they’d dealt with.
This book needs major continuity editing. It would also benefit from a glossary or on page translations. This book should be able to be enjoyed by everyone, including those who speak/read no Spanish. If people need to leave the book to look up a translation, they’ll get frustrated and possibly quit this book/series/author.
I didn’t mind this book, the plot was interesting if a little predictable. My major issues were inconsistencies and continuity. There were multiple instances of time changing back and forth, sometimes from one paragraph to the next. Something that just happened is mentioned as happening yesterday and vice versa.
In terms of inconsistency, the main one was Maddy thinking that they’d never dealt with flying entities and literally the next paragraph going on about the Harpies they’d dealt with.
This book needs major continuity editing. It would also benefit from a glossary or on page translations. This book should be able to be enjoyed by everyone, including those who speak/read no Spanish. If people need to leave the book to look up a translation, they’ll get frustrated and possibly quit this book/series/author.
March 6, 2025
I’ve been reluctant to start a new author lately, but this book had a blurb that really drew my attention, so I requested it. After a few pages, I was completely hooked. Maddy is a more mature character, but thankfully the author doesn’t tell us almost every page like some do. LOL! She’s capable, determined, and making a new life for herself after leaving her job. I loved the characters in this, and I’m glad that Maddy’s circle of friends grew a bit. The only thing I wished was that we had gotten more interactions/dialogue between characters. I find I learn more about characters through their interactions with each. Other than that, I quite enjoyed this book and am happy there is more on the way. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
March 7, 2025
Finding out Maddie has a house and a new job would be exciting as well as challenging news. The book hints that Maddie is part of a magic wielding family but she does not think she has any powers. When she accepts the job and begins to discover little things hinting at something, she is not sure what to think about these mysterious happenings. I loved Maddie. She is such a charismatic woman who has real fears as much as anyone else. She has a challenging job, one that she is good at. The author throws in many familiar Mexican dishes (I love tamales) that provide sustenance and comfort when things go south. I am soooo hoping there will be more mysteries to solve for Maddie. I have questions!
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