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Sugar Shack Witch Mysteries #3
Hexes and Honey Buns: Sugar Shack Witch Mysteries Series, Book 3
The pen is mightier than the sword - but what's a witch to do when she has writer's block?
After landing my first official journalist job I thought the ideas would be spilling out faster than I could type. But it turns out life in the shadow of my debut piece is a little...make that a lot, harder than I expected.
So, when a convicted murderer reaches out begging for help in proving her innocence, I jump at the chance to dig into another investigation.
The only problem? This trail is ice cold.
I don't want to give up on a good story, or let down a witch desperate for my help, but I'm not sure where to turn and I'm running out of time.
Will my last ditch effort pan out, or will I be forced to give my editor a blank page?
After landing my first official journalist job I thought the ideas would be spilling out faster than I could type. But it turns out life in the shadow of my debut piece is a little...make that a lot, harder than I expected.
So, when a convicted murderer reaches out begging for help in proving her innocence, I jump at the chance to dig into another investigation.
The only problem? This trail is ice cold.
I don't want to give up on a good story, or let down a witch desperate for my help, but I'm not sure where to turn and I'm running out of time.
Will my last ditch effort pan out, or will I be forced to give my editor a blank page?
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First published September 29, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
June 7, 2025
The FMC, Ella, has become whiney and exceedingly clingy and weird about her relationship with Orion... like, how does she suddenly not understand that his job is secretive and complicated? She acts like him not checking in every few minutes is indicative of him not liking her, versus, you know, him being busy doing dangerous stuff in a remote location where he said service might be spotty and he's not at liberty to offer up details. So yeah, that was an annoying theme throughout the bulk of this tale. It didnt wrap up any better... she's sooo wishy-washy. Says she wants something/someone... gets it/them... and it's still jot good enough. Plus, while investigating, Ella acts entitled asf when gathering information... all intrusive and pushy. And you can't be arrested for harassment for wanting to ask a cop a question, wtf. Aaaalso, the wrapping up on the crime/mystery/whatever is SO sudden and lackluster.
Ugh. This one was more dull and annoying than whimsical and light.
Ugh. This one was more dull and annoying than whimsical and light.
March 4, 2023
The Sugar Shack Mysteries has hit its stride and the series is delighting me at nearly every turn. Rosella is coming into her own. The town, her family, and the magical worldbuilding are fun backdrop. Slow-burn romance and clever mysteries with the rest make me eager to pick up my earbuds and settle in to enjoy the latest installment read by the talented Amanda Ronconi.
Hexes and Honeybuns is number three behind two long-novellas and two shorter between holiday-themed ones. There are a few series connections that make it best read or listened to in order.
Picking up where the last caper left off, Rosella is back in the saddle with a journalism job and had a good first story out of the gate, but has nothing to follow up that triumph. And, to add to that she’s still struggling with stay or go when it comes to being back in Winterspell and her relationship with Orion. Things are at a real low point for her when she gets the call from a witch in prison who read Rosella’s investigative article and wants Rosella to prove Marigold innocent of her husband’s murder. Orion’s off on a secret dangerous case that has her tide up in knots so she focuses hard on Marigold’s case and slowly picks up the trail on a cold case that’s warming up as she goes.
This series is growing on me. I wasn’t keen on Rosella at the get-go and wanted her to buck up. Well, she’s steadily working out her personal troubles with her town, figuring out what she wants to do with her life, and deciding whether to have a deeper relationship with Orion when his dangerous, isolating career is putting her off. Speaking of careers, I loved that moment when Rosella realized that she really loved working her new journalism job and it’s what she went into journalism for in the first place.
Small side note, I would not be mournful at all if Chloe, her cousin, got rundown by a bus or something. The mean girl schtick toward Rosella is beyond tiresome.
The mystery was well-plotted and kept me interested, but I confess the return to a series plot thread that’s had me curious for a while getting more attention toward the end of this book is what has me beyond excited to see what comes next.
In summary, Amanda Ronconi was abso-fab at narrating this latest with good, distinct voicing of all the characters and Hexes and Honeybuns was all a paranormal cozy should be. Definitely one for the ‘to be listen’ stack.
I rec'd an audio copy from Tantor Audio to listen to in exchange for my honest review.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy Feb 27.
Hexes and Honeybuns is number three behind two long-novellas and two shorter between holiday-themed ones. There are a few series connections that make it best read or listened to in order.
Picking up where the last caper left off, Rosella is back in the saddle with a journalism job and had a good first story out of the gate, but has nothing to follow up that triumph. And, to add to that she’s still struggling with stay or go when it comes to being back in Winterspell and her relationship with Orion. Things are at a real low point for her when she gets the call from a witch in prison who read Rosella’s investigative article and wants Rosella to prove Marigold innocent of her husband’s murder. Orion’s off on a secret dangerous case that has her tide up in knots so she focuses hard on Marigold’s case and slowly picks up the trail on a cold case that’s warming up as she goes.
This series is growing on me. I wasn’t keen on Rosella at the get-go and wanted her to buck up. Well, she’s steadily working out her personal troubles with her town, figuring out what she wants to do with her life, and deciding whether to have a deeper relationship with Orion when his dangerous, isolating career is putting her off. Speaking of careers, I loved that moment when Rosella realized that she really loved working her new journalism job and it’s what she went into journalism for in the first place.
Small side note, I would not be mournful at all if Chloe, her cousin, got rundown by a bus or something. The mean girl schtick toward Rosella is beyond tiresome.
The mystery was well-plotted and kept me interested, but I confess the return to a series plot thread that’s had me curious for a while getting more attention toward the end of this book is what has me beyond excited to see what comes next.
In summary, Amanda Ronconi was abso-fab at narrating this latest with good, distinct voicing of all the characters and Hexes and Honeybuns was all a paranormal cozy should be. Definitely one for the ‘to be listen’ stack.
I rec'd an audio copy from Tantor Audio to listen to in exchange for my honest review.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy Feb 27.
August 20, 2025
this title doesn’t make any sense for this book lmao.
i did like this one more than previous novels in the serious, but orion and rosella’s relationship still confuses me sm so idk how to feel.
i did like this one more than previous novels in the serious, but orion and rosella’s relationship still confuses me sm so idk how to feel.
October 23, 2025
"Hexes and Honey Buns (Sugar Shack Witch Mysteries #3) by Danielle Garrett is set just in the last few weeks of February/first few weeks of March. It's the first book in the series not linked to a holiday. Rosella also gets more Candice help/time in this one.
Rosella is feeling stagnant with her life back home already. She has a regular job with the local paper but it's mostly boring every day pieces. Orion is still on a case in Alaska. She doesn't seem to count him as her boyfriend despite them seemingly being exclusive with each other. Plus she's still living with her family (it's barely been 5 months since she returned home completely broke).
Luckily for Rosella things don't stay boring for long. A convicted murderer reaches out to her for help proving their innocence. With little else exciting going on, Rosella starts looking into what really happened to the woman's husband. The culprit ended up being my main suspect.
While that was happening, Rosella has cause to start worrying about Orion. The magical news channels were reporting on a magically spelled bear attack around where Orion supposedly was going. They eventually get in touch with each other. I wont say any more or there may be some spoilers.
Rosella is feeling stagnant with her life back home already. She has a regular job with the local paper but it's mostly boring every day pieces. Orion is still on a case in Alaska. She doesn't seem to count him as her boyfriend despite them seemingly being exclusive with each other. Plus she's still living with her family (it's barely been 5 months since she returned home completely broke).
Luckily for Rosella things don't stay boring for long. A convicted murderer reaches out to her for help proving their innocence. With little else exciting going on, Rosella starts looking into what really happened to the woman's husband. The culprit ended up being my main suspect.
While that was happening, Rosella has cause to start worrying about Orion. The magical news channels were reporting on a magically spelled bear attack around where Orion supposedly was going. They eventually get in touch with each other. I wont say any more or there may be some spoilers.
December 27, 2023
Appreciate the journalist justice angle of this series, but the MC is the least developed (in my opinion) in comparison to other series by this author. Still, the cast of characters and magic system remain enjoyable and I’m very eager to find out what happens with the larger plot unfolding.
May 23, 2025
2.75 stars (Audible). Part mystery. Part fantasy. Not too heavy + easy read.
September 4, 2025
BRAVO😭👏🏻BRAVO😭👏🏻
this was PERFECT😍 Rosella goes out on her own to solve a mystery about a closed murder case that might have convicted the wrong person👀 sadly Orion isn’t there to help her solve the mystery, but Rosella was such a girl boss in this book that we didn’t even need him… (even tho i really wish that cocky hunk of a man would have made more appearances)🤣😛
since Rosella works for the local newspaper she desperately needed to see if this story could give her any content, and it didn’t disappoint😌✨
loved it, so entertaining🤓
~
✨✨✨✨✨/ 5 stars
/ 0 spicy peps
this was PERFECT😍 Rosella goes out on her own to solve a mystery about a closed murder case that might have convicted the wrong person👀 sadly Orion isn’t there to help her solve the mystery, but Rosella was such a girl boss in this book that we didn’t even need him… (even tho i really wish that cocky hunk of a man would have made more appearances)🤣😛
since Rosella works for the local newspaper she desperately needed to see if this story could give her any content, and it didn’t disappoint😌✨
loved it, so entertaining🤓
~
✨✨✨✨✨/ 5 stars
/ 0 spicy peps
June 21, 2025
3.5/5⭐️
October 17, 2023
While I liked the story, I was disappointed that Rosella didn’t speak with any animals in this tale, to assist here in solving the mystery. The ability to communicate with animals is central to her character. Defines much of who she is. So while the mystery was good, it was just that…a mystery. Solved just by “human” investigation. So I was a little disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2023
Picking up a few weeks or so after the conclusion of the previous title, Hexes and Honey Buns finds Rosella working for the Winterspell Gazette and searching for her next big story. She receives an email from Marigold Prince, a prisoner convicted of killing her husband. She maintains she’s innocent and asks for Rosella’s help after reading her piece on the mermaid trafficking ring.
Using her investigative skills, Rosella starts looking into Marigold’s case. This gives her purpose, while keeping her from worrying about Orion, who is on a secret case for the Order. Ella continues to debate with herself the merits of staying in Winterspell and her long-distance relationship with Orion. I am enjoying this series because we see Ella grow a bit in each book. She’s not stagnating, but rather making decisions and moving forward. She’s also learning to seek counsel from her family and friends.
I enjoyed the whodunit mystery and following Ella as she interviews witnesses and pieces together the events leading up to Marigold’s late husband’s death. The mystery is smart, although in typical cozy fashion, the bad guy spills all when confronted. One of the things I love most about Ms. Garrett’s writing is her attention to detail. Every story, every scene, the narrator paints a picture of sights, sounds, and smells. This is so effective for the audiobook format, bringing the setting and story to life.
I was a little frustrated with a couple aspects of Hexes and Honey Buns. The first involves a small subplot that is raised but then dropped. If there is no follow-through, then it should have been edited out. The second is the relationship between Ella’s family and her nasty cousin, Chloe. Chloe and her mom are just horribly mean to Ella and her sisters, and I just don’t see the need for it. I cringed every time Chloe made an appearance and would prefer her character to go away or evolve.
Narration: The story is shared in the first person POV of heroine Ella. Ms. Ronconi performs with an upbeat cadence, using a friendly, girl-next-door quality that suits Ella. She keeps the story moving with a steady flow. She alters her voice for each character’s dialogue based on gender, age, and species (when called for), making it obvious different characters are speaking. Her male characters are generally deeper.
Overall, I really enjoy Ms. Garrett’s cozies. They continue to provide a delightful story with a good balance of mystery and personal relationships, lots of detail, quaint settings, and enjoyable characters. Although there can be a few bumps, I know what I’m getting, and I love her formula.
Ratings:
Story: B
Narration: B+
Review copy provided by publisher
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Using her investigative skills, Rosella starts looking into Marigold’s case. This gives her purpose, while keeping her from worrying about Orion, who is on a secret case for the Order. Ella continues to debate with herself the merits of staying in Winterspell and her long-distance relationship with Orion. I am enjoying this series because we see Ella grow a bit in each book. She’s not stagnating, but rather making decisions and moving forward. She’s also learning to seek counsel from her family and friends.
I enjoyed the whodunit mystery and following Ella as she interviews witnesses and pieces together the events leading up to Marigold’s late husband’s death. The mystery is smart, although in typical cozy fashion, the bad guy spills all when confronted. One of the things I love most about Ms. Garrett’s writing is her attention to detail. Every story, every scene, the narrator paints a picture of sights, sounds, and smells. This is so effective for the audiobook format, bringing the setting and story to life.
I was a little frustrated with a couple aspects of Hexes and Honey Buns. The first involves a small subplot that is raised but then dropped. If there is no follow-through, then it should have been edited out. The second is the relationship between Ella’s family and her nasty cousin, Chloe. Chloe and her mom are just horribly mean to Ella and her sisters, and I just don’t see the need for it. I cringed every time Chloe made an appearance and would prefer her character to go away or evolve.
Narration: The story is shared in the first person POV of heroine Ella. Ms. Ronconi performs with an upbeat cadence, using a friendly, girl-next-door quality that suits Ella. She keeps the story moving with a steady flow. She alters her voice for each character’s dialogue based on gender, age, and species (when called for), making it obvious different characters are speaking. Her male characters are generally deeper.
Overall, I really enjoy Ms. Garrett’s cozies. They continue to provide a delightful story with a good balance of mystery and personal relationships, lots of detail, quaint settings, and enjoyable characters. Although there can be a few bumps, I know what I’m getting, and I love her formula.
Ratings:
Story: B
Narration: B+
Review copy provided by publisher
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
December 6, 2023
This was a great book! Wow! This was more mystery than it was a romance. We follow Ella as she harnesses her inner Journalist and Detective mojo to solve a possible murder. A convicted murderer reaches out to Ella and pleads her innocence. She begs Ella to solve the murder. Ella takes it upon herself to try and solve the murder of this convicted murderer's husband. Will she do it, what will happen, how will it end? well you gotta read the book.
It was a nice book, it was cozy, and I was hooked. Ella Does have some moments where O'Ryan is in the picture but it's not a lot. The author does tie it in and it meshes well. The only criticism I have of the book is that the title didn't really correlate with the story itself. There wasnt at least to my knowledge any hexes. it was mostly about the murder and what lead to it. Then the honey buns, I dont think there was any if there was I missed it.
Either way it was a good book, and you will be sucked in. Def recommend you read the previous books before reading this. Chronological order is nice and you understand who the characters are.
It was a nice book, it was cozy, and I was hooked. Ella Does have some moments where O'Ryan is in the picture but it's not a lot. The author does tie it in and it meshes well. The only criticism I have of the book is that the title didn't really correlate with the story itself. There wasnt at least to my knowledge any hexes. it was mostly about the murder and what lead to it. Then the honey buns, I dont think there was any if there was I missed it.
Either way it was a good book, and you will be sucked in. Def recommend you read the previous books before reading this. Chronological order is nice and you understand who the characters are.
September 22, 2025
In this third entry in the series, Ella is settling into her job on the local newspaper, and is searching for her next article to write. It comes almost from out of the blue, when a woman imprisoned for murdering her husband writes to Ella asking for her help, and saying she's innocent.
Ella spent most of the book trying to figure out if the woman had really killed her husband or not. In addition, she's trying to figure out her relationship with Orion, as once again he's away for almost the entire book, working on a case in Alaska. The ending promises some changes for Ella and also her relationship with Orion. I like forward to seeing what happens.
Ella spent most of the book trying to figure out if the woman had really killed her husband or not. In addition, she's trying to figure out her relationship with Orion, as once again he's away for almost the entire book, working on a case in Alaska. The ending promises some changes for Ella and also her relationship with Orion. I like forward to seeing what happens.
October 19, 2023
Another great cozy from Danielle! I love this series. It's so fun. And I love Orion! I hope we get more in this series. I love that Ella seems to be realizing her place is in Winterspell with her wonderful family and friends. She did great work with this mystery, learning more about her skills as a journalist. It seems like the town paper will be a supportive place for her. I'm intrigued with the ongoing mystery as well, which we learn more about in this book! I'm happy that we'll be getting more Orion going forward too.
December 5, 2023
This series is so much fun! I love how the narrator brings life to all of the characters in Winterspell and I can’t wait to jump into the collection of Christmas Novellas.
August 1, 2025
A very cozy and fun read! The ending had me 🥹 this series I really see growth with all the characters. I need to read the last two in the series for sure.
October 24, 2025
I don't recall honey buns even being mentioned in this lol
rosella is incredibly annoying.
rosella is incredibly annoying.
October 23, 2024
Another fun story in this series! A great, quick, cozy read. Looking forward to the next book!
April 28, 2025
Almost a DNF but not quite
Sigh. I’m this far into the series and usually when a book irks me as much as this one did, I DNF it and move on with my life (which, is what I should’ve done).
This is why I don’t read series, cause I’m a glutton for punishment and find myself holding out hope for the series to make a turn around.
Now, I’m not saying this book is bad. The author is an incredible writer with a fantastic way of describing things, but unfortunately, the way that Ella has been written shows zero character growth. I’m 5 books in, I expected her to have SOMETHING for growth, but no, she acts like a high schooler who doesn’t know how to do anything but whine about her life, jump to conclusions, and throw little tantrums.
I really wish that she’d just grow up a bit. Here’s to the next book I guess 🫠
Sigh. I’m this far into the series and usually when a book irks me as much as this one did, I DNF it and move on with my life (which, is what I should’ve done).
This is why I don’t read series, cause I’m a glutton for punishment and find myself holding out hope for the series to make a turn around.
Now, I’m not saying this book is bad. The author is an incredible writer with a fantastic way of describing things, but unfortunately, the way that Ella has been written shows zero character growth. I’m 5 books in, I expected her to have SOMETHING for growth, but no, she acts like a high schooler who doesn’t know how to do anything but whine about her life, jump to conclusions, and throw little tantrums.
I really wish that she’d just grow up a bit. Here’s to the next book I guess 🫠
November 11, 2024
This one is not as good as the first two in the series. Rosella hasn't developed as a character, she's still relatively flat. Rosella's magic is her ability to talk with animals and there only one part with that. The mystery was flat as well. But, the saving grace, it was narrated by Amanda Ronconi!
Go Cards! L1C4!!
Go Cards! L1C4!!
February 4, 2024
Main character becomes an insane bitch.
May 3, 2025
Read book 3 of Danielle Garrett's Sugar Shack Witch Mystery Series for Reddit Fantasy's 2025 Bingo Square Small Press or Self Published. This qualifies for hard mode as it's self published and written by a marginalized (female) author.
One would think Rosella Midnight has it made - she's got a hot boyfriend, a job at her family's bakery and a new writing gig at the Winterspell Gazette. Unfortunately she's one of those glass half empty folks as she's frustrated by the long distance relationship woes and secrecy caused by Orion's job, she's not really good with customers at her family bakery and Winterspell is a small town with not much going on so she's chafing at the bit at not getting to exercise the full extent of her journalist skills.
So when a convicted murderer reaches out begging for help in proving her innocence, Rosella jumps at the chance to investigate the cold case! Anything to distract her from missing and worrying about Orion, not to mention dealing with her haughty cousin's wedding planning.
Rosella is one of those heroines that sometimes exasperates me, and other times I love her. Many of the things she's experienced in her life are SO relatable to most women it's hard not to self insert when reading this series. Yes, women worry when their boyfriend has a dangerous job he can't talk about, and is always away. But nobody likes being heckled for still being single when a relative is wedding planning especially when some asinine folks just love to talk smack, gossip and throw shade because they're catty mean girls who thrive on bringing other women down.
This time the cozy mystery aspect is a little less interesting, investigation wise. For the first time, the case isn't solved because of Rosella's gift at communicating with animals, but by solid investigative journalism! There are still animal communication interactions, but much less than before and I kind of miss that aspect in this series.
There's some major development at the end of this story that ties together the threads from this and past books in the series so the trail of clues and breadcrumbs we've been following now seems like it's leading in a good direction. This is great, I never mind it when plots are telegraphed in advance, it's vague but it's enough for me to know things are heading in a general direction. I can't wait to read the rest of this series next year when Bingo comes around again.
One would think Rosella Midnight has it made - she's got a hot boyfriend, a job at her family's bakery and a new writing gig at the Winterspell Gazette. Unfortunately she's one of those glass half empty folks as she's frustrated by the long distance relationship woes and secrecy caused by Orion's job, she's not really good with customers at her family bakery and Winterspell is a small town with not much going on so she's chafing at the bit at not getting to exercise the full extent of her journalist skills.
So when a convicted murderer reaches out begging for help in proving her innocence, Rosella jumps at the chance to investigate the cold case! Anything to distract her from missing and worrying about Orion, not to mention dealing with her haughty cousin's wedding planning.
Rosella is one of those heroines that sometimes exasperates me, and other times I love her. Many of the things she's experienced in her life are SO relatable to most women it's hard not to self insert when reading this series. Yes, women worry when their boyfriend has a dangerous job he can't talk about, and is always away. But nobody likes being heckled for still being single when a relative is wedding planning especially when some asinine folks just love to talk smack, gossip and throw shade because they're catty mean girls who thrive on bringing other women down.
This time the cozy mystery aspect is a little less interesting, investigation wise. For the first time, the case isn't solved because of Rosella's gift at communicating with animals, but by solid investigative journalism! There are still animal communication interactions, but much less than before and I kind of miss that aspect in this series.
There's some major development at the end of this story that ties together the threads from this and past books in the series so the trail of clues and breadcrumbs we've been following now seems like it's leading in a good direction. This is great, I never mind it when plots are telegraphed in advance, it's vague but it's enough for me to know things are heading in a general direction. I can't wait to read the rest of this series next year when Bingo comes around again.
November 19, 2024
Rosella’s adventures continue in this book, but we see more of the struggles she faces with her aspiring journalism career and her relationship with Orion.
After her first big hit article in the magical world and accepting her position with the local newspaper in Winterspell writing about the mundane day to day activities isn’t exactly what Rosella was expecting. On top of this Orion is in Alaska tackling a mission from the Order and is mostly unreachable. Suddenly Rosella receives an unexpected email from a convicted murder stating she is innocent and wants someone to review her case.
Rosella begins to review the articles sent to her by Marigold about her murdering her husband, Vincent, but something doesn’t sit right with her. She decides to go pay Marigold a visit at the magical prison she is sentenced to. While going over some details with Marigold, Rosella receives a call from Orion letting her know he is safe. The night prior the magical news had reported that there was an accident in the same area Orion is conducting his assignment for the Order. Not being able to reach him and scared out of her mind Rosella reaches out to Grandma Rose for help.
After ending her call with Orion Rosella is refused readmittance to the visiting center and must head home to continue her investigation. While on the path for answers Rosella finds out that the original investigation didn’t extend very far, and some important information was missed. In the end, Rosella helps prove Marigold’s innocence and the actual murderer is arrested.
Orion also shows up at the end of this investigation and clues Rosella in on what he has been working on. This is top secret information, and he asks Rosella to help him moving forward after obtaining approval from the order. He and Rosella also have a serious talk about their future and what moving forward looks like for them both.
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to continue reading the series! I sincerely hope Rosella and Orion are end game! I hope she ends up traveling with him on his jobs from the Order and writes her travel blog she always wanted.
After her first big hit article in the magical world and accepting her position with the local newspaper in Winterspell writing about the mundane day to day activities isn’t exactly what Rosella was expecting. On top of this Orion is in Alaska tackling a mission from the Order and is mostly unreachable. Suddenly Rosella receives an unexpected email from a convicted murder stating she is innocent and wants someone to review her case.
Rosella begins to review the articles sent to her by Marigold about her murdering her husband, Vincent, but something doesn’t sit right with her. She decides to go pay Marigold a visit at the magical prison she is sentenced to. While going over some details with Marigold, Rosella receives a call from Orion letting her know he is safe. The night prior the magical news had reported that there was an accident in the same area Orion is conducting his assignment for the Order. Not being able to reach him and scared out of her mind Rosella reaches out to Grandma Rose for help.
After ending her call with Orion Rosella is refused readmittance to the visiting center and must head home to continue her investigation. While on the path for answers Rosella finds out that the original investigation didn’t extend very far, and some important information was missed. In the end, Rosella helps prove Marigold’s innocence and the actual murderer is arrested.
Orion also shows up at the end of this investigation and clues Rosella in on what he has been working on. This is top secret information, and he asks Rosella to help him moving forward after obtaining approval from the order. He and Rosella also have a serious talk about their future and what moving forward looks like for them both.
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to continue reading the series! I sincerely hope Rosella and Orion are end game! I hope she ends up traveling with him on his jobs from the Order and writes her travel blog she always wanted.
May 15, 2025
I'm really adoring this world and these characters so I couldn't resist starting the next one.
Rosella is settling in and making her way. She has accepted a 2nd job as a writer in an official journalist job. After a successful piece, Rosella is struggling with her next piece. However, a possible story lands on her lap, aka email, when a convicted murderer reaches out to her begging for help. The murderer says she is innocent but the trail is ice cold. Rosella takes it on but she keeps bumping into walls. Will she solve an old murder or be forced to give her editor a blank page?
Awww Rosella. What a lil sweetie. I just want her to be happy and do well but she is struggling with trying to get a good story out, her cousin, her boyfriend, and feeling okay being back home. She is having so many conflicting emotions. I just wanna hug her!
Honestly, the mystery came at the right time for her. She needs to get her mind busy and get another great story out! This seems like a cut and dry case, but not all is what it seems. The mystery was good and TBH....the twist was great. I was worried it was going to be too easy, but the author didn't fall into an easy solution or answer.
The ending was great! I have hope but a part of me is curious about the one cop. Mmmmmmmmmmm. I will say no more, but I do wonder.
ANYWAY!
I'm not amused with how the cousin is allowed to be a B word to our girl while no one says ANYTHING to her and now they are making her a cake for like free? WHAT? Ugh. I get family and etc, but come on!
Great narration OF COURSE. Everything she touches turns to gold.
Loving this series. I can't wait to start the next one! I would give this 5, but the scenes with the cousin niggled at my brain a bit. 4 stars overall.
- Favorite Character(s): Rosella
- Least Favorite Character(s): THAT cousin. >_> Ugh.
Rosella is settling in and making her way. She has accepted a 2nd job as a writer in an official journalist job. After a successful piece, Rosella is struggling with her next piece. However, a possible story lands on her lap, aka email, when a convicted murderer reaches out to her begging for help. The murderer says she is innocent but the trail is ice cold. Rosella takes it on but she keeps bumping into walls. Will she solve an old murder or be forced to give her editor a blank page?
Awww Rosella. What a lil sweetie. I just want her to be happy and do well but she is struggling with trying to get a good story out, her cousin, her boyfriend, and feeling okay being back home. She is having so many conflicting emotions. I just wanna hug her!
Honestly, the mystery came at the right time for her. She needs to get her mind busy and get another great story out! This seems like a cut and dry case, but not all is what it seems. The mystery was good and TBH....the twist was great. I was worried it was going to be too easy, but the author didn't fall into an easy solution or answer.
The ending was great! I have hope but a part of me is curious about the one cop. Mmmmmmmmmmm. I will say no more, but I do wonder.
ANYWAY!
I'm not amused with how the cousin is allowed to be a B word to our girl while no one says ANYTHING to her and now they are making her a cake for like free? WHAT? Ugh. I get family and etc, but come on!
Great narration OF COURSE. Everything she touches turns to gold.
Loving this series. I can't wait to start the next one! I would give this 5, but the scenes with the cousin niggled at my brain a bit. 4 stars overall.
- Favorite Character(s): Rosella
- Least Favorite Character(s): THAT cousin. >_> Ugh.
December 31, 2025
Hexes and Honey Buns
Sugar Shack Witch Mysteries #3, by Danielle Garrett
In a Nutshell:
Book three in a must-read series. The romance continues as a gentle slow burn, the family bonds shine, and the blend of magic and mystery is as charming as ever. It’s fun and cosy, and like all the best paranormal cosies, you know it isn’t real — but your heart believes it.
The Plot:
Rosella is juggling life at the Sugar Shack with her growing magical responsibilities when a new mystery pulls her back into danger. A seemingly simple situation spirals into something far more complicated, and Ella must rely on her unusual gift, her instincts as a former journalist, and her family’s support to uncover the truth. Alongside the case, her relationship with Orion edges forward — tender, patient, and definitely worth the wait.
Story Vibes:
🪄 Slow-burn romance
💫 Three very different sisters
🪄 A warm, loving family at the centre
💫 Bakery life and everyday magic
🪄 A mystery that turns out not to be simple
💫 Cosy paranormal atmosphere
My Thoughts:
This series keeps delivering. I love watching Ella grow into her power and into herself, and the family dynamic remains one of the real joys of the books. Light, magical, and heartfelt — exactly what I want from this genre.
Book Rating
Sexual Content: U
Language: mild
Violence: mild
Would I read the next one or reread?: Absolutely
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Cosy, magical, and thoroughly enjoyable.
Sugar Shack Witch Mysteries #3, by Danielle Garrett
In a Nutshell:
Book three in a must-read series. The romance continues as a gentle slow burn, the family bonds shine, and the blend of magic and mystery is as charming as ever. It’s fun and cosy, and like all the best paranormal cosies, you know it isn’t real — but your heart believes it.
The Plot:
Rosella is juggling life at the Sugar Shack with her growing magical responsibilities when a new mystery pulls her back into danger. A seemingly simple situation spirals into something far more complicated, and Ella must rely on her unusual gift, her instincts as a former journalist, and her family’s support to uncover the truth. Alongside the case, her relationship with Orion edges forward — tender, patient, and definitely worth the wait.
Story Vibes:
🪄 Slow-burn romance
💫 Three very different sisters
🪄 A warm, loving family at the centre
💫 Bakery life and everyday magic
🪄 A mystery that turns out not to be simple
💫 Cosy paranormal atmosphere
My Thoughts:
This series keeps delivering. I love watching Ella grow into her power and into herself, and the family dynamic remains one of the real joys of the books. Light, magical, and heartfelt — exactly what I want from this genre.
Book Rating
Sexual Content: U
Language: mild
Violence: mild
Would I read the next one or reread?: Absolutely
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Cosy, magical, and thoroughly enjoyable.
February 28, 2024
To investigate you have to ask questions
Roselle is still trying to find her place in life. All of her insecurity has her confused. Orion is off on an undercover job and she is searching for the next big story. Marigold Prince was convicted of murdering her husband for a big insurance policy. Her email from jail to Roselle swears she is innocent. Roselle traces the last day of Vincent's life. Mostly she asks questions with known answers. Not where the earrings for his mistress were purchased, or if the local jeweler sold them. She does find photos of one of his mistresses. The trail speeds up from there. Soon Sheriff Templetons lazy investigation is exposed. No mention is ever made about the treatment of Marigold in prison, the life insurance money or what happened to her husbands half of the company. Roselle didn't cut Orion much slack either, demanding to know secret information, when he was returning, why he didn't contact her more. It turns out OK but her attitude makes you want to shake her at times. The series has a lot of good characters but this is my last one.
Roselle is still trying to find her place in life. All of her insecurity has her confused. Orion is off on an undercover job and she is searching for the next big story. Marigold Prince was convicted of murdering her husband for a big insurance policy. Her email from jail to Roselle swears she is innocent. Roselle traces the last day of Vincent's life. Mostly she asks questions with known answers. Not where the earrings for his mistress were purchased, or if the local jeweler sold them. She does find photos of one of his mistresses. The trail speeds up from there. Soon Sheriff Templetons lazy investigation is exposed. No mention is ever made about the treatment of Marigold in prison, the life insurance money or what happened to her husbands half of the company. Roselle didn't cut Orion much slack either, demanding to know secret information, when he was returning, why he didn't contact her more. It turns out OK but her attitude makes you want to shake her at times. The series has a lot of good characters but this is my last one.
December 9, 2024
I really enjoyed Rosella getting back into her writing career even if it wasn’t as glamorous as she originally hoped. In this installment, Rosella is helping to clear a woman wrongfully convicted of killing her husband. Originally, there’s not much to go on, so we get to experience Rosella’s frustrations and desperations right along with her as she struggles to make progress in the case. As with a classic mystery, there’s plenty of false leads and misdirection to keep readers interested in the plot. I also enjoyed that Rosella is continuing to grow and change as a character. I also loved the tease at the end to the overarching mystery that has been hinted at during some of the previous books in the series. I again read this via audiobook and continue to love the narration. Ronconi excels at making Rosella a likable character and bringing out all the emotions. She also makes the story enjoyable to listen to. If you plan to read this series, I strongly encourage checking out the audiobooks.
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ALC courtesy of Tantor Audio
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ALC courtesy of Tantor Audio
October 6, 2024
Mystery • Justice • Unexpected
This witch themed mystery kept me wondering what was going to happen next. Will Rosella bring journalism justice to an inmate that asks her to write a piece about her story? I enjoyed the journalism connection between the mystery. This was totally unexpected of a book for me- ended up being way better than expected. There isn’t much of a romance vibe and while there is baking it isn’t really about honeybuns. The title doesn’t really fit the book. Plus, FYI it is part of a series. I read it first (out of order) and there was plenty of this story that was individual to this book making it easy to understand. There is a larger plot line going on between the series, and I’m definitely intrigued to go back and read the previous books in order.
This witch themed mystery kept me wondering what was going to happen next. Will Rosella bring journalism justice to an inmate that asks her to write a piece about her story? I enjoyed the journalism connection between the mystery. This was totally unexpected of a book for me- ended up being way better than expected. There isn’t much of a romance vibe and while there is baking it isn’t really about honeybuns. The title doesn’t really fit the book. Plus, FYI it is part of a series. I read it first (out of order) and there was plenty of this story that was individual to this book making it easy to understand. There is a larger plot line going on between the series, and I’m definitely intrigued to go back and read the previous books in order.
September 25, 2022
Ella continues to grow
In this latest exciting adventure, Ella is still beset with doubts about her love life and career, and whether she should be remaining in Winterspell. But as she investigates the case of a possibly wrongfully imprisoned murderer, and develops a few articles about it, she learns more about her true value to the community--and to Orion--and maybe even begins to feel like not everyone in town sees her as cursed. Can't wait to watch her become more confident in herself and her abilities!
In this latest exciting adventure, Ella is still beset with doubts about her love life and career, and whether she should be remaining in Winterspell. But as she investigates the case of a possibly wrongfully imprisoned murderer, and develops a few articles about it, she learns more about her true value to the community--and to Orion--and maybe even begins to feel like not everyone in town sees her as cursed. Can't wait to watch her become more confident in herself and her abilities!
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