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The Shadows of Salem Town
WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU STUMBLED ACROSS YOUR ANCESTOR’S MAGICAL ABILITIES?
At twenty-four years old, Hazel Bright is perfectly content in her carefree and ordinary life. She spends most nights out with her best friend, Ainsley, and days running their bookstore in busy downtown Boston. That is until she meets handsome and mysterious Ben. Now, strange events continue to unfold around her, thrusting Hazel into a world of magic with dangerous possibilities.
HOW WOULD YOU REACT IF IT SPELLED DANGER FOR THOSE YOU LOVED MOST?
As the truth about Hazel’s ancestry comes to light, she is at risk of losing the only thing she cares most the people she loves.
Can she save them before history repeats itself?
At twenty-four years old, Hazel Bright is perfectly content in her carefree and ordinary life. She spends most nights out with her best friend, Ainsley, and days running their bookstore in busy downtown Boston. That is until she meets handsome and mysterious Ben. Now, strange events continue to unfold around her, thrusting Hazel into a world of magic with dangerous possibilities.
HOW WOULD YOU REACT IF IT SPELLED DANGER FOR THOSE YOU LOVED MOST?
As the truth about Hazel’s ancestry comes to light, she is at risk of losing the only thing she cares most the people she loves.
Can she save them before history repeats itself?
214 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 23, 2025
4 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
May 1, 2025
✨Comedic banter
🐾 Magic & familiars
🌙 Chosen one
💐 Romance
📖 Secret family history
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars!
🌷 Received as an eArc in exchange for an honest review 🌷
🪴 One mysterious night changes everything when Hazel gets a mysterious message through her mail slot. Hazel begins to uncover her family’s heritage, a long line of powerful witches, while simultaneously trying to learn her abilities. Along the way she meets Ben, a motorcycle riding hottie, who takes a like to her instantly. Things get complicated as more history is revealed between the two of their families. This is a fantasy novel with a touch of romance and magic! It takes place in Salem around Samhain (Halloween).
🕸️ This is a very well written short novel, and something I couldn’t put down when I started! Love this story, the length is perfect—the writing flowed really nicely, too.
🐈 Harriet (the familiar) was such a good addition to the story. It gives us a bunch of witty banter and some foreshadowing. Hazel very much reminds me of Bonnie Bennet from TVD, I absolutely love the way her character develops when she starts learning more about her powers. Ainsley is the perfect support system and best friend—she listens with no judgement and goes with the flow. Ben is trying to uncover his own past and subsequently runs into Hazel, whose family history his is intertwined with.
📚 I recommend this book to absolutely everyone, and especially to read around Halloween! A good quick and fun read ✨💕
🐾 Magic & familiars
🌙 Chosen one
💐 Romance
📖 Secret family history
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars!
🌷 Received as an eArc in exchange for an honest review 🌷
🪴 One mysterious night changes everything when Hazel gets a mysterious message through her mail slot. Hazel begins to uncover her family’s heritage, a long line of powerful witches, while simultaneously trying to learn her abilities. Along the way she meets Ben, a motorcycle riding hottie, who takes a like to her instantly. Things get complicated as more history is revealed between the two of their families. This is a fantasy novel with a touch of romance and magic! It takes place in Salem around Samhain (Halloween).
🕸️ This is a very well written short novel, and something I couldn’t put down when I started! Love this story, the length is perfect—the writing flowed really nicely, too.
🐈 Harriet (the familiar) was such a good addition to the story. It gives us a bunch of witty banter and some foreshadowing. Hazel very much reminds me of Bonnie Bennet from TVD, I absolutely love the way her character develops when she starts learning more about her powers. Ainsley is the perfect support system and best friend—she listens with no judgement and goes with the flow. Ben is trying to uncover his own past and subsequently runs into Hazel, whose family history his is intertwined with.
📚 I recommend this book to absolutely everyone, and especially to read around Halloween! A good quick and fun read ✨💕
April 22, 2025
This book follows Hazel, who uncovers her magical abilities and discovers she comes from a long line of witches. Set in Massachusetts, the writing is very immersive and takes you deep in the world of Salem at Halloween time.
Hazel meets Ben, a hottie with a bike (because, duhhh) and is immediately attracted to him—but for what reason? Is it physical attraction? Or rather, a pull to his spirit and his ancestral descent? Through the book, Hazel uncovers truths about her bloodline and Ben’s true intentions.
The imagery hit every mark. The characters were relatable and charming, and attracted me to the story.. and that includes her cat Harriet. This would be the perfect mood read around Halloween time, even if you aren’t into “witchy” or “spooky” reads. It’s perfectly eerie. It whisked me away from reality—I recommend it!
This read was fast-paced and easy to read, I read it almost fully in one sitting. Many fade-to-black scenes and time jumps, from a few hours to a day at a time. The plot is fairly surface level, and doesn’t leave room for many theories to run amuck with. I would consider this Young Adult.
3.5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Thank you to M.R. Pyke for an Advanced Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book releases May 23, 2025.
Hazel meets Ben, a hottie with a bike (because, duhhh) and is immediately attracted to him—but for what reason? Is it physical attraction? Or rather, a pull to his spirit and his ancestral descent? Through the book, Hazel uncovers truths about her bloodline and Ben’s true intentions.
The imagery hit every mark. The characters were relatable and charming, and attracted me to the story.. and that includes her cat Harriet. This would be the perfect mood read around Halloween time, even if you aren’t into “witchy” or “spooky” reads. It’s perfectly eerie. It whisked me away from reality—I recommend it!
This read was fast-paced and easy to read, I read it almost fully in one sitting. Many fade-to-black scenes and time jumps, from a few hours to a day at a time. The plot is fairly surface level, and doesn’t leave room for many theories to run amuck with. I would consider this Young Adult.
3.5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Thank you to M.R. Pyke for an Advanced Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book releases May 23, 2025.
May 1, 2025
The Shadows of Salem Town by M.R. Pyke.
Genre: Fantasy | Witches | Mystery
My first ARC ever and feeling like a real bookish insider! Thank you to @authormrpyke for the trust and the opportunity to be part of this journey. Writing a book isn’t just an act of creativity; it’s an act of bravery.
Let’s start with the cover - it’s stunning and appropriate.
The prologue is especially impactful - chilling, lyrical, and vivid. Pyke doesn’t waste a word in creating eerie undertones that shape the story.
What stands out immediately is the rich, descriptive prose. Whether it’s the creak of old wood floors, the whisper of wind through the trees, or distant echoes, the setting is alive!
While the story is engaging, a few minor editing oversights are present. These do not detract from the overall experience but are worth noting.
A story for the witch in us all; the parts of us that seek power, connection, and truth.
With a heartfelt dedication to a mutual friend under acknowledgements, it added a personal touch and was super cool to read.
Genre: Fantasy | Witches | Mystery
My first ARC ever and feeling like a real bookish insider! Thank you to @authormrpyke for the trust and the opportunity to be part of this journey. Writing a book isn’t just an act of creativity; it’s an act of bravery.
Let’s start with the cover - it’s stunning and appropriate.
The prologue is especially impactful - chilling, lyrical, and vivid. Pyke doesn’t waste a word in creating eerie undertones that shape the story.
What stands out immediately is the rich, descriptive prose. Whether it’s the creak of old wood floors, the whisper of wind through the trees, or distant echoes, the setting is alive!
While the story is engaging, a few minor editing oversights are present. These do not detract from the overall experience but are worth noting.
A story for the witch in us all; the parts of us that seek power, connection, and truth.
With a heartfelt dedication to a mutual friend under acknowledgements, it added a personal touch and was super cool to read.
April 29, 2025
Thank you, M.R. Pyke for the gifted eARC!
The Shadows of Salem Town is a captivating debut that seamlessly blends elements of fantasy, mystery, and witchcraft. The story follows Hazel Bright, a 24-year-old bookstore owner in Boston, whose life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers her ancestral ties to a powerful line of witches. As she delves into her newfound heritage, Hazel becomes entangled in a web of secrets, magic, and danger that threatens not only her life but the fabric of reality itself.
Pyke's writing is atmospheric and immersive, drawing readers into a world where the mundane and the mystical coexist. The pacing is well-balanced, with moments of tension and revelation that keep the reader engaged. Hazel is a relatable protagonist, and her journey of self-discovery is both compelling and poignant.
If you're a fan of stories that explore the complexities of identity, the allure of magic, and the shadows of history, The Shadows of Salem Town is a must-read. It's a promising start to what I hope will be a captivating series.
The Shadows of Salem Town is a captivating debut that seamlessly blends elements of fantasy, mystery, and witchcraft. The story follows Hazel Bright, a 24-year-old bookstore owner in Boston, whose life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers her ancestral ties to a powerful line of witches. As she delves into her newfound heritage, Hazel becomes entangled in a web of secrets, magic, and danger that threatens not only her life but the fabric of reality itself.
Pyke's writing is atmospheric and immersive, drawing readers into a world where the mundane and the mystical coexist. The pacing is well-balanced, with moments of tension and revelation that keep the reader engaged. Hazel is a relatable protagonist, and her journey of self-discovery is both compelling and poignant.
If you're a fan of stories that explore the complexities of identity, the allure of magic, and the shadows of history, The Shadows of Salem Town is a must-read. It's a promising start to what I hope will be a captivating series.
April 14, 2025
This book is gripping with the topic of witches, family, friendship and adoption. It has you asking questions about what’s going to happen next early on in the book and makes you want to continue reading. The friendship and family is so strong with love and support. I absolutely recommend this book to everyone even if it’s not your style/genre, it’ll pull you in, I promise!
September 11, 2025
Book Review : 4.25 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level : 🫑 (some kissing)
Some towns never escape their shadows …
The Shadows of Salem Town by M.R. Pyke gave me total chills.
The mix of Salem’s dark history with a modern-day mystery had me hooked from page one. It’s eerie, atmospheric, and full of secrets that keep creeping up when you least expect them.
Hazel and Ainsley’s friendship had me completely hooked. The way they loved, cared for, and showed such patience with each other was beautiful. I loved seeing them be vulnerable together and grow side by side, it felt so real and heartfelt.
Cam is peak golden retriever energy and I was obsessed from page one that he was introduced. Always loyal, always showing up for Hazel, and honestly, who wouldn’t fall for that?
He’s the kind of book boyfriend that makes you want to hug the pages. 🥰
If you’re into small-town suspense with a gothic twist, this one’s definitely worth the read! 🖤
Spice Level : 🫑 (some kissing)
Some towns never escape their shadows …
The Shadows of Salem Town by M.R. Pyke gave me total chills.
The mix of Salem’s dark history with a modern-day mystery had me hooked from page one. It’s eerie, atmospheric, and full of secrets that keep creeping up when you least expect them.
Hazel and Ainsley’s friendship had me completely hooked. The way they loved, cared for, and showed such patience with each other was beautiful. I loved seeing them be vulnerable together and grow side by side, it felt so real and heartfelt.
Cam is peak golden retriever energy and I was obsessed from page one that he was introduced. Always loyal, always showing up for Hazel, and honestly, who wouldn’t fall for that?
He’s the kind of book boyfriend that makes you want to hug the pages. 🥰
If you’re into small-town suspense with a gothic twist, this one’s definitely worth the read! 🖤
September 14, 2025
As someone who doesn’t usually read much because it’s hard to find a book that truly grabs my attention, I was pleasantly surprised by this debut! From the very first chapter, I was hooked—I ended up reading nearly half the book in one sitting. It reminded me how much I actually love reading when I find the right story.
The book dives into Salem and witchcraft, but not in the “cheesy” way you might expect. Instead, it’s written with a freshness and intrigue that keeps you guessing and wanting to know what happens next. The pacing, the suspense, and the way the story unfolds really impressed me, especially for a first-time author.
My only constructive feedback is that the ending felt a little rushed. I was so invested that I wanted more time with the story and the characters. That said, it only left me more excited to see what this author does next.
An amazing first book—well done! I can’t wait to read whatever comes after this.
The book dives into Salem and witchcraft, but not in the “cheesy” way you might expect. Instead, it’s written with a freshness and intrigue that keeps you guessing and wanting to know what happens next. The pacing, the suspense, and the way the story unfolds really impressed me, especially for a first-time author.
My only constructive feedback is that the ending felt a little rushed. I was so invested that I wanted more time with the story and the characters. That said, it only left me more excited to see what this author does next.
An amazing first book—well done! I can’t wait to read whatever comes after this.
April 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
If your favourite character from The Vampire Diaries was Bonnie Bennet then this standalone witchy fantasy novel by M.R. Pyke is for you!
The Shadows of Salem Town follows Hazel as she unravels the truth of her ancestors along side her best friends Ainsley and Cameron. This debut novel by Pyke has all of your favourite spooky elements including curses, magic, and your new favourite pet cat, Harriet. You will fall in love with Hazels Boston bookshop, and envy her friendship with Ainsley.
The plot takes a while to really get going, but it’s still a fun fall read that will make you long for Halloween and cup of tea. I can’t wait to revisit it again as a cozy fall read, and I recommend you do the same!
I had the pleasure of reading an ARC, and look forward to its upcoming release day!
If your favourite character from The Vampire Diaries was Bonnie Bennet then this standalone witchy fantasy novel by M.R. Pyke is for you!
The Shadows of Salem Town follows Hazel as she unravels the truth of her ancestors along side her best friends Ainsley and Cameron. This debut novel by Pyke has all of your favourite spooky elements including curses, magic, and your new favourite pet cat, Harriet. You will fall in love with Hazels Boston bookshop, and envy her friendship with Ainsley.
The plot takes a while to really get going, but it’s still a fun fall read that will make you long for Halloween and cup of tea. I can’t wait to revisit it again as a cozy fall read, and I recommend you do the same!
I had the pleasure of reading an ARC, and look forward to its upcoming release day!
April 8, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Family curse, adoption papers that have been hidden leads to secrets, magic powers that come out of nowhere while your best friend tries to help you - all wrapped up in a mystery filled story.
As you follow Hazel and Ben, the main two characters in the story while being told in Hazel's POV; you get to see why it's important to have best friends that understand you even when times get questionable. Ben gives off red flags in the beginning but once you start to understand his side of the story, he is dealing with something major that has plagued his family for centuries. Which torments him in ways that is unimaginable. On top of that, the "side kick" that has been at Hazel's side starts to reveal more secrets and questions that Hazel must uncover as the mystery thickens.
Family curse, adoption papers that have been hidden leads to secrets, magic powers that come out of nowhere while your best friend tries to help you - all wrapped up in a mystery filled story.
As you follow Hazel and Ben, the main two characters in the story while being told in Hazel's POV; you get to see why it's important to have best friends that understand you even when times get questionable. Ben gives off red flags in the beginning but once you start to understand his side of the story, he is dealing with something major that has plagued his family for centuries. Which torments him in ways that is unimaginable. On top of that, the "side kick" that has been at Hazel's side starts to reveal more secrets and questions that Hazel must uncover as the mystery thickens.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2025
The Shadows of Salem Town is a short and fun witchy read - if you’re a fan of Hocus Pocus, Practical Magic, or Sabrina the Teenage Witch, be sure to add this to your spooky season TBR!
Quick synopsis: FMC Hazel Bright is a quiet and introverted bookstore owner who leads an ordinary and lonely life until she meets mysterious and handsome Ben. Strange things start to happen and with the help of her friends (and cat) she uncovers the truth about her magical ancestry.
What to expect:
- Family curse
- Hidden past
- Magical abilities
- Furry companion(s)
- Strong friendships
I had so much fun with this book! It was just over 200 pages of cozy fall vibes, and I can see myself rereading it with a pumpkin spice latte in hand.
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
Quick synopsis: FMC Hazel Bright is a quiet and introverted bookstore owner who leads an ordinary and lonely life until she meets mysterious and handsome Ben. Strange things start to happen and with the help of her friends (and cat) she uncovers the truth about her magical ancestry.
What to expect:
- Family curse
- Hidden past
- Magical abilities
- Furry companion(s)
- Strong friendships
I had so much fun with this book! It was just over 200 pages of cozy fall vibes, and I can see myself rereading it with a pumpkin spice latte in hand.
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
April 24, 2025
The Shadows of Salem Town is a quick but engaging read that blends magic, mystery, and a touch of romance. The story follows Hazel Bright, a young bookstore owner whose life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers her ancestral magical abilities. As she unravels her family’s secrets, she must face dangerous forces that threaten the people she loves.
Despite its shorter length, the book packs in plenty of intrigue and suspense. Hazel is a relatable protagonist, and the mix of everyday life with hidden magic makes for a compelling story. The pacing moves fast, making it an easy and entertaining read, perfect for a cozy afternoon.
If you enjoy short, supernatural mysteries with a strong lead and a bit of romance, this one is worth picking up!
Despite its shorter length, the book packs in plenty of intrigue and suspense. Hazel is a relatable protagonist, and the mix of everyday life with hidden magic makes for a compelling story. The pacing moves fast, making it an easy and entertaining read, perfect for a cozy afternoon.
If you enjoy short, supernatural mysteries with a strong lead and a bit of romance, this one is worth picking up!
April 17, 2025
I was so honored to have the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book. I love books with magical, thrilling plots, and this book brought exactly that!
From the very beginning, this book is gripping, leaving you to wonder how things will end. The author painted a beautiful, pleasantly-magical scene all the way throughout the book, making it easy to fall in love with the main character, Hazel, and the truly special relationships she has created in her life.
This book bridges together fantasy, suspense, and love. I cannot wait to see what Pyke has coming in the future. Maybe Hazel will take us on another magical adventure? Whatever it may be, I'm along for the ride!
From the very beginning, this book is gripping, leaving you to wonder how things will end. The author painted a beautiful, pleasantly-magical scene all the way throughout the book, making it easy to fall in love with the main character, Hazel, and the truly special relationships she has created in her life.
This book bridges together fantasy, suspense, and love. I cannot wait to see what Pyke has coming in the future. Maybe Hazel will take us on another magical adventure? Whatever it may be, I'm along for the ride!
April 19, 2025
This was such a vivid and atmospheric read! The Shadows of Salem Town completely pulled me in with its rich descriptions — I could actually see the scenes and even smell the world the author created. It’s rare to find a book that hits on all the senses like this.
For a debut indie novel, it’s incredibly well done. The story is intriguing, the setting feels alive, and there’s a great balance of mystery and eerie historical detail.
There were a few spots where the editing could’ve been tighter, but honestly, it didn’t take much away from the overall experience. I’m excited to see what M.R. Pyke does next!
For a debut indie novel, it’s incredibly well done. The story is intriguing, the setting feels alive, and there’s a great balance of mystery and eerie historical detail.
There were a few spots where the editing could’ve been tighter, but honestly, it didn’t take much away from the overall experience. I’m excited to see what M.R. Pyke does next!
April 29, 2025
This was SO good.
Hazel was such a fun character to follow in her journey of discovering her past connections and future self. This is my favourite kind of book to read in the fall and found myself so thrilled to get to read something of the sort in April. Witchy, Mass vibes all around 🍂
Great plot and I’m always a sucker for secret family histories that have a darker witchy aspect to them, especially in the truly sensational setting the author created with their writing. Very quick read as well, and time jumps that were easy to follow.
Many thanks for the ARC!
Hazel was such a fun character to follow in her journey of discovering her past connections and future self. This is my favourite kind of book to read in the fall and found myself so thrilled to get to read something of the sort in April. Witchy, Mass vibes all around 🍂
Great plot and I’m always a sucker for secret family histories that have a darker witchy aspect to them, especially in the truly sensational setting the author created with their writing. Very quick read as well, and time jumps that were easy to follow.
Many thanks for the ARC!
May 29, 2025
What a great little magic fairytale with a bit of romance and mystery. I love the truns in this book and the found family that Hazel creates with her friends and her adopted parents. This story has a very interesting backstory which I love how we get that first... well atleast a bit of it anyway, enough to make you have questions. I feel like this book has the potential to have a second book but the ending is also wrapped up nicely that it doesn't need one either. I hope there is a book 2 I would love to know more about Hazel's story and where she goes from here.
May 2, 2025
This isn't normally the sort of book I gravitate to but the cover is gorgeous so I undecided to give it a shot, and I am so glad I did. I really enjoyed the story and loved the FMC and her growth throughout. It was fun and magical and overall just really well written. I will definitely be recommending this.
April 30, 2025
I loved this witchy book! The author is very skilled with their descriptive writing. They paint a very vivid picture of the world, which really helps set the tone of the scenes.
I especially loved Hazel and Ainsley’s friendship.
I especially loved Hazel and Ainsley’s friendship.
July 11, 2025
A cozy witchy story with characters you'll be charmed by! I enjoyed reading about Hazel's path to claiming her powers, as she deals with a blast from the very-far past. Excellent bedtime reading. The author has a knack for dialogue, and making her characters come alive.
August 8, 2025
I loved it!!! I was hooked from the start. It was my first book about witches and magic! I hope Meg writes another one!!! Highly recommend and love supporting a beautiful, hard-working, local author/mama!
April 5, 2025
I loved this book! Fantasy is not my always my cup of tea but this was also a great story of true friendship. Definitely recommended!
April 5, 2025
I loved this book! The imagery was beautifully detailed and the characters were relatable. I read this in only a couple of sittings; I didn’t want to put it down! :)
April 24, 2025
I fell in love with this book at the first chapter!
The mystery and hint of romance pulled me in. I devoured it in one day! I couldn’t put it down! Truly a work of art!
The mystery and hint of romance pulled me in. I devoured it in one day! I couldn’t put it down! Truly a work of art!
May 25, 2025
This book has a great storyline and gives practical magic vibes. It's a stand alone so great if you need a pallet cleanser. Perfect for fall
September 19, 2025
hooked me instantly and didnt want to put it down
April 30, 2025
I loved this book. I mean, what's not to love, it has witchcraft, a cat, and the FMC owns a bookstore! It's a quick, fun read and I thoroughly enjoyed it and was invested in the characters right from the beginning. LOVE the cover as well!
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews